2016 NFL Free Agency Profile: Nate Solder

Nov 30, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; New England Patriots tackle Nate Solder (77) after the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Few teams are more rigid and interesting when it comes to the free agent market than the New England Patriots. So it will be quite compelling to see what they have in mind for left tackle Nate Solder.

Age: 27
+20.9 overall rating (Pro Football Focus)
+6.9 pass blocking
+10.3 run blocking
10 sacks allowed
23 pressures allowed
Super Bowl champion (2014)

Everybody knows bookend left tackles don’t just grow on tree in the NFL. When you’re able to find one who is at least serviceable, you do what is necessary to keep him unless it’s felt somebody better is on the roster or within reach elsewhere. Solder is not a Pro Bowler but he’s a good player who has missed just one game in four seasons. If not a superstar, he is at least dependable.

The problem is the Patriots. They are notorious for sticking to a certain dollar amount regardless of who the player it is they’re negotiating with. If that player feels he’s worth more and they disagree, the Pats have shown consistently they are willing to let him walk.

So what happens if Solder comes through with his best season to date? Maybe even a Pro Bowl? He could be in his rights to demand top dollar, which would hover around $10-12 million per year. It’s hard to imagine the Patriots paying that kind of money. That doesn’t mean they wouldn’t, but as said before it’s interesting to ponder.

Likeliest Outcome: Re-signs before end of season

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