The New England Patriots are reportedly adding to their much-maligned offensive line.
"The #Patriots are signing OL James Hudson to a 1-year deal, source said, as the former #Giants OL will add depth," NFL Network national insider Ian Rapoport posted on X Monday afternoon.
The #Patriots are signing OL James Hudson to a 1-year deal, source said, as the former #Giants OL will add depth. pic.twitter.com/wGSggorWVs
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 23, 2026
MassLive Patriots beat writer Mark Daniels said that the addition of James Hudson fills a "top need."
"A veteran swing tackle, Hudson fills a big need for the Patriots. They entered this week without either backup tackle from last season on the roster," Daniels wrote. "Backup left tackle Vederian Lowe signed with San Francisco in free agency. Backup right tackle Thayer Munford remains a free agent."
The Cleveland Browns selected Hudson in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft and he spent the first four seasons of his career with the team.
The 26-year-old played 49 regular season games with the Browns and made 17 starts, including a career-high seven during the 2023 campaign. Hudson also started Cleveland's only playoff contest in the last five years during the 2023 AFC wild-card round.
He signed with the New York Giants in March 2025 and suited up in 11 games (two starts) last season, committing five penalties.
"The Patriots still lack depth at tackle and it wouldn’t be a surprise to see them draft someone next month. However, Hudson fills an important role behind starters Will Campbell and (Morgan) Moses," Daniels said. "Hudson is now the most experienced backup tackle on the Patriots roster, joining Marcus Bryant, Sebastian Gutierrez and Lorenz Metz."
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