Patriots Build OL in Fourth Round; Draft Guard Sidy Sow

The New England Patriots continue to build their offensive line in the final day of the 2023 NFL Draft.

The New England Patriots are focusing on the trenches of the final day of the 2023 NFL Draft. 

After focusing primarily on defense over the first two days, drafting cornerback Christian Gonzalez defensive end Keion White, followed by safety/linebacker hybrid Marte Mapu the Patriots have gone offensive-heavy on day three. 

Starting off with Troy center Jake Andrews, who New England selected at No. 107 to strengthen its offensive line. That was followed shortly by the Patriots trading up to select kicker Chad Ryland at No. 112. 

And just a few picks later, the Patriots went with another lineman in Eastern Michigan guard Sidy Sow at No. 117. 

According to SI Draft Bible, "A bigger guard prospect, Sow will be scheme limited, but he has the talent to develop into a backup guard.”

Standing at 6-5 and 330 pounds, Sow played all 13 games for the Eagles last season en route to his First Team All-MAC nod in 2022. 

"On film, Sow is a big framed guard, with a strong lower half," SI Draft Bible writes. "His play strength was very solid and it was evident in the run game, where he put defenders in the dirt often. Sow is able to drive defenders backward when he plays low on man blocking concepts. An experienced player, Sow has very good football IQ. His ability to handle stunts and twists was fantastic. 

New England is back on the clock shortly with pick No. 135. 

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