Locks: Nate Solder, Bryan Stork, Ryan Wendell, Sebastian Vollmer, Cameron Fleming, Marcus Cannon
Bubble: Tre' Jackson, Shaq Mason, Josh Kline, Jordan Devey, Caylin Hauptmann
Long shots: Chris Barker, David Andrews, Kevin Hughes,Â
BREAKDOWN: There are a few variables up front that could change the direction of the group dramatically. First, is Dan Connolly going to return? A recent ESPNBoston.com report indicated that he may be leaning toward retiring. If he comes back he starts at one guard spot. If not, it opens the door for rookies Jackson and Mason to beat out a veteran for a starting spot. If that happens, one or more of the group of Kline, Devey and Hauptmann will go. Kline appears to be the most talented of that trio and his experience likely keeps him around. Fleming and Cannon have experience at both guard and tackle and that could also make life tough on the bubble group if Bill Belichick opts to save a roster spot. Another possibility to consider is Wendell being replaced in the starting lineup, a scenario that actually happened a year ago to open the season. If the rookies pan out, it could lead to Wendell's release. Hughes has some experience as a third-year player, as does Barker, who was on the practice squad most of last year. Andrews is listed as a center, which could limit his options if the undrafted rookie can't back up at the guard spots. The first few days of camp will go a long way toward answering many of these questions once we get a look at how Belichick pairs up the guys up front, but there's no question there are several jobs – starting or otherwise – up for grabs.
