Reiff is an 11-year veteran who has made 149 career starts at both tackle positions. Most recently, the 34-year-old started ten games for the Bears at right tackle last season, allowing three sacks and 18 total pressures on 293 pass-blocking snaps. Reiff has been a regular starter throughout his career with the Lions, Vikings, Bengals and last season in Chicago.
Reiff’s addition comes on the heels of the Patriots reportedly signing developmental tackle Calvin Anderson, bidding 2019 third-rounder Yodny Cadjus to an original-round RFA contract, and re-signing vet Conor McDermott. With Trent Brown, the Pats are building their depth potentially in anticipation of drafting a tackle in early April.
As for Reiff, he’s best described as a solid, dependable pro who’s best suited for the New England right side. Reiff’s calling cards are his physicality, power in the running game, balance and body control to anchor against power rushers in pass protection. A former first-round pick who started three seasons at Iowa, Reiff entered the league as a top prospect due to his technical sophistication and has been just that throughout his career.
The veteran has been challenged throughout his career with NFL-style competitiveness and a good understanding of the intricacies of the offensive line (leverage, use of hands, blocking adjustments, etc.).
With New England adding upside (Anderson) and a potential short-term starter (Reiff) via free agency, the Patriots should still be in the market for high-end talent at offensive tackle while hoping to find a long-term answer. term for at least one spot tackle in the draft.
The Patriots can now enter the April draft feeling better about their offensive tackle depth, which has been shaky in the 2022 season.