What does Trent Brown mean for the Patriots’ quarterback plans?

The Patriots got tackle Trent Brown back, which could mean a number of things on the offensive line. But is the Brown move also a clue toward the Patriots’ plans at quarterback?

Zolak & Bertrand shared their thoughts on why Brown’s playing style could mean a new direction at QB during Tuesday’s show on 98.5 The Sports Hub. Scott Zolak explained that Brown has always been more of a pass protector than run-blocker. This means the Patriots’ next starting quarterback could be more of a traditional pocket passer than a dual threat like Cam Newton – and a better fit for the offense the Patriots ran last time Brown was here, in 2018.

“I think Brown is more comfortable at left tackle here, in this offense, and based on the protection schemes that you’ve run before,” Zolak said. “You still have the same offensive coordinator [Josh McDaniels], and if you get a throwing quarterback and go back to the three-step, five-step, play-action drops, it’s an indicator for Brown on the back side that ‘OK, I know the depth of the quarterback and my expectations for pass protections.'”

Cam Newton struggled in the passing game for most of the 2020 season for the Patriots, compiling an 82.9 passer rating with just eight touchdowns in 15 starts. He also struggled to throw over the offensive line consistently, as defensive linemen broke up 12 pass attempts at the line against him. Parking the 6-foot-9 Brown in front of a QB who can’t throw over the line seems like it would be a problem.

Listen below for Zolak & Bertrand’s full take on the matter. We’ve got you covered all offseason for Patriots news, analysis and insight right here at 985TheSportsHub.com.

MORE: The Trent Brown Domino Effect

• Marcus Cannon retires or is released

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  The report that Cannon was preparing to return, along with all the Patriots' other key opt-outs from 2020, was a surprise. Given his age (he'll be 33 in the 2021 season) and prior health concerns off the field, which precipitated his decision to opt out, Cannon should still be considered a candidate for retirement. The Patriots could even release him and save $7 million. This would be by far the easiest way to create room on the Pats' O-line.

• Joe Thuney leaves vis free agency

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  The Patriots have a crowded O-line with or without Thuney in the fold. But he's arguably the best offensive lineman available in unrestricted free agency, so he's likely to go get a big ol' bag o' cash somewhere else. The Patriots have two natural in-house replacements in Isaiah Wynn and Michael Onwenu.

• Michael Onwenu kicks inside

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  After playing most of his rookie season at right tackle, Onwenu will most likely move to his natural position of guard in 2021. He's the logical replacement for Joe Thuney at left guard. Even if Marcus Cannon isn't back at right tackle, Brown could play that spot with Isaiah Wynn staying on the left side.
• Isaiah Wynn trade

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  Wynn's injury problems (missed all of 2018, only 18 games played from 2019-20) may give teams pause. But he's also on the books for just one year and a $2 million salary, and when he's been on the field he's proven to be a capable starting tackle. The Patriots may be able to recoup decent draft capital for the former first-round pick.

• Shaq Mason trade

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  Mason remains one of the better right guards in the league, and he's actually become somewhat affordable with cash earnings of $6.5 million, $7.5 million, and $8.5 million expected over the next three seasons. The cap savings would be negligible (about $3 million) if they traded Mason now. But they would save money nonetheless by having both guards playing on their rookie contracts. It's more likely Mason stays put and the Pats find another way to create room.

Listen to Zolak and Bertrand weekdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on 98.5 The Sports Hub.