On Monday, May 20, voluntary offseason programs commenced for 21 NFL teams, including the New England Patriots, who started their organized team activities (OTAs). Kevin Patra of NFL.com highlights the importance of OTAs:
“OTAs mark the beginning of Phase Three of the offseason program, which spans four weeks. Teams can conduct up to 10 days of organized team activities. Although live contact is prohibited, teams are allowed to run 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 drills. This stage of the offseason closely resembles actual practices compared to earlier workouts.”
The Patriots were missing eight players during Monday’s OTAs, among them offensive lineman Cole Strange.
Cole Strange Injury Update
Cole Strange sustained a knee injury during training camp, causing him to miss four of the first six games of the 2023 season. He reinjured his knee in Week 15, resulting in his placement on season-ending injured reserve. This ongoing knee issue also kept him from participating in the start of OTAs.
Head Coach Jerod Mayo’s Update
Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo provided an update on Strange’s condition. “That’s an interesting one,” Mayo told reporters. “Cole’s another guy; normally we’d say ‘day by day.’ He’s more of a ‘week by week’ or even ‘month by month’ if you want to. He is working hard, doing his rehab, and is here every day. He’s in the meeting room, so I’m happy with where he is.”
### Who Filled in for Cole Strange?
In Strange’s absence, Sidy Sow stepped in at left guard (LG) on Monday. Sow, a rookie, played 15 games and started 13 at right guard (RG) last season. He recorded 27 pressures, 18 hurries, four hits, five sacks allowed, a 46.3 pass block grade, a 71.3 run block grade, and a 64.4 PFF grade.
Additionally, free-agent acquisition Nick Leverett took over at right guard (RG).
As the offseason continues, the Patriots will monitor Strange’s recovery closely and adjust accordingly to maintain the strength of their offensive line.
