Patriots Rookie OL: Day 1 Starter?

The New England Patriots selected Eastern Michigan offensive lineman Sidy Sow No. 117 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft.

Widely regarded as one of this year's NFL Draft's biggest "winners," the New England Patriots may have found multiple long-term starters this offseason. Beginning with first-round pick Christian Gonzalez, or second-round selection Keion White - who has impressed throughout OTA's - there are plenty of candidates that could start Week 1.

However, could New England’s most impactful rookie this season be a 25-year-old offensive lineman?

The Athletic recently listed Day 3 Draft Sleepers who could make an immediate impact, with the Patriots landing on fourth-round pick Sidy Sow. 

"Sow felt like one of the most underappreciated offensive linemen in this draft class," The Athletic writes. "Not only did he work at offensive guard during an extremely dependable career at Eastern Michigan, but he’s also very athletic, measured in with nearly 34-inch arms and probably can play tackle in the NFL.

"The Patriots don’t need help at guard right now — Mike Onwenu and Cole Strange are rock-solid players who fit everything New England does. They could use tackle help, though, and Sow has the type of play strength and mindset necessary to kick out and make it work."

A four-year starter at Eastern Michigan, Sow spent most of his time playing  left guard - with 31 career starts - but did suit up in 11 games during his redshirt freshman campaign at left tackle, 

Standing at 6-5 and 330 pounds, Sow was a three All-MAC recipient over his collegiate tenure with back-to-back First-team nods over his final two seasons. 

"Sow, who turns 25 in June, was a very aggressive pass protector inside in college and will have to prove he can handle himself outside," The Athletic writes. "But he’s got what it takes to play early. If it all clicks, the Patriots may have found a terrific value by adding a possible starting tackle or guard in Round 4."

If the Day 3 selection can turn into an immediate impact piece, then the Patriots may have themselves a decade-long starter on the offensive line. 

---

Follow Riley Sheppard on Twitter @RileyDSheppard

Follow Patriots Country on Twitter and Facebook

Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Patriots? Click Here

More Patriots coverage from Sports Illustrated here.