The Pats rotated olinemen at the beginning of the 2004 season. Look it up. I know it isn't a common practice, but with the blend of talents on the line (rookies, veterans, pass and runn blockers) I wouldn't be surprised if we see something like this from the new regime. Not saying it will definitely happen, but if you see it, you heard it here first.
i agree the ol is important for curtis. i'd look for him to bounce back this year. seemed like dingers plan on offense was as complicated as spelling his name. but i think we will be fine with mangini and hope they can open up holes for curtis.
Jones used to play TE, if anything he has more of a background in run blocking than anything. Outside of the position change in college, it's not like he's some uy with huge LT experience, so I don't get how he's locked into just that position. The guys gotten bigger every year to adjust to being an OT, and a RT usually faces bull rushers and the bigger DE's since they play that side (usually better run stuffers, which is part of why they play that side). If anything he just needs time and experience. I'm not sold on him being a starter at either position on the offensive line, but it's not going to be any worse (and probably will be better) having him on the right side.
Of course the QB play is key, but that's already been debated to death and will be debated until September. Trying to look at things a different way. My point is that with good protection, and a decent running game, Brooks Bollinger could be effective. I think between now and Tennessee, Mangini will get the O-line up to at least adequate. But of the 5 supposed lineman, AJ is my biggest question. The fact is, it's reasonable to assume that our 2 1st rounders will be adequate playing their natural positions, and that our two returning guards will also be adequate. The one big question is the player switching sides from the finesse and footspeed LT to the push and pancake RT position. If AJ can run block, Curtis or whoever can make yards. If the RBs make yards, the QB can use play fakes. If the defense has to respect the run, the throwing lanes will be open.
