The New England Patriots are in decent shape entering free agency, as there seems to be mutual interest between the organization and all of its internal free agents.

It’s just not that easy…

If the club intends on truly getting over the hump, difficult decisions will need to be made regarding some of those players — with one of the more interesting cases coming in the form of Thayer Munford Jr.

Should they bring him back? Does he have a role? What would that say about their approach in general?

Let’s take a look!

Bio:

Thayer Munford Jr.
Position: OL
Height: 6’ 5″
Weight: 354lbs
Age: 26 (Sept. 18, 1999)
2025: 9 G, 143 OFFENSIVE SNAPS, 0 PENALTIES, 0 SACK ALLOWED

The Patriots should bring back Thayer Munford Jr. because:

It’s only right considering their public-facing approach…

The Patriots have made it clear that they intend on running it back with both Will Campbell and Morgan Moses, publicly shooting down the idea of replacing either offensive tackle at every chance they’ve been given. If they’re going to do that, why not keep the same message with the current reserve crop of Munford, Vederian Lowe and Marcus Bryant?

The Patriots should not bring back Thayer Munford Jr. because:

I can’t imagine there aren’t upgrades available given the role he plays…

New England only really asked him to serve as the sixth offensive lineman in the running game, deploying him on 103 snaps in the running game and 40 snaps in the passing game, according to PFF. It’s not like he’s some invaluable member of the offense…

Ben Brown could easily serve in that role, especially after inking a two-year extension in the middle of last season. Caedan Wallace is still on his rookie contract and has the versatility to play in multiple spots. I’d imagine they’ll add even more options during the 2026 NFL Draft — we’re talking about an organization that has drafted at least one offensive lineman in every draft since 2013, after all.

Prediction:

Thayer Munford Jr. re-signs with the New England Patriots.

How much will it cost?

Munford has plenty of familiarity with Mike Vrabel, as well as the rest of the offensive coaching staff, and should look to prioritize comfortability in an offseason where he could expand upon the role that he carved out in 2025.

More NFL: Patriots Offseason Preview: Everything Team Must Address In 2026