The Dallas Cowboys are taking a close look at the New England Patriots’ 2017 depth chart to fill their need at offensive tackle.
The Cowboys are hosting Patriots free agent tackles Cameron Fleming and LaAdrian Waddle for visits early this week, sources told NESN.com.
ESPN’s Todd Archer was the first to report Waddle’s impending visit. Fleming’s was reported by multiple outlets Sunday, including NESN.com.
With Nate Solder signing with the New York Giants and Justin Pugh joining the Arizona Cardinals, Fleming and Waddle arguably are the two best tackles remaining in a weak free agent class. Both played well in place of injured Patriots right tackle Marcus Cannon this past season, starting 13 games between them, including playoffs.
Solder’s departure made finding a new left tackle the Patriots’ No. 1 offseason priority, as their three internal candidates (Tony Garcia, Cole Croston and Andrew Jelks) all lack significant NFL experience. New England on Friday signed former Seattle Seahawks tackle/guard Matt Tobin, but he’s likely more of a depth option.
Re-signing either Fleming or Waddle would go a long way toward stabilizing the Patriots’ offensive line. There’s also a strong chance they look to land their left tackle of the future early in the 2018 NFL Draft.
