Patriots have pre-draft visit with veteran Joseph

BY DAN BEGNOCHE

When it comes to offensive linemen in the draft, it looks like the New England Patriots have their contingency plans in place.

Forty-eight hours prior to the announcement of the first overall pick, the team brought in two-time Pro Bowler Davin Joseph for a visit, according to ESPN Boston.

This marks the second free agent lineman the team has brought in this offseason, though there's been little talk (big surprise) regarding any future draft prospects the team may be interested in. Luckily for the Pats, the pool is deep this season when it comes to protection for the aging Tom Brady.

New England hasn't taken an offensive lineman since 2011, and it may be a good time to bulk up on their talent. Their 36-year-old signal-caller took the most sacks he's endured since 2001 (40).

With a class this large, there's a chance the team could snag some solid talent at No. 29, or trade up or down depending on things shake out.

Joseph was released by the Buccaneers in March following a season where he started every game at right guard but was slated to cost the team a $6 million cap hit. He finished dead last overall among all right guards last year, according to ProFootballFocus, ranking last in run blocking, as well.

The 30-year-old previously missed the entirety of his 2012 campaign with a knee injury.

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