The New England Patriots might be bringing back a familiar face to help stabilize their offensive line.
ESPN.com’s Mike Reiss reported Monday morning that the team is in talks with former offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia about a potential return to the New England coaching staff. Reiss added that one person close to the situation indicated there’s a “good chance” that Scarnecchia — who retired following the 2013 season — will be back with the Patriots.
Scarnecchia certainly would have his work cut out for him in returning to Foxboro. The Patriots’ offensive line, though hampered by injuries, was disappointing at times during the season, especially when key playmakers went down and quarterback Tom Brady was forced to hold the ball longer.
Brady was sacked 38 times in 2015, which was 17 more times than in 2014. Things got especially ugly during the AFC Championship Game against the Super Bowl champion Denver Broncos. Brady was sacked up six times and seemed to be on the ground every other play.
After the season ended with a loss in Denver, the team parted ways with offensive line coach Dave DeGuglielmo.
Scarnecchia, a coaching lifer, was with the Patriots for more than 20 years. He became the team’s offensive line coach in 1999 and held that position for three of the Patriots’ four Super Bowl titles.
Thumbnail photo via Greg M. Cooper/USA TODAY Sports Images
