The New England Patriots applied the franchise tag on Joe Thuney this offseason. But that doesn't mean his future in New England is solidified.
According to a report from ESPN's Mike Reiss, both sides haven't been close to a contract extension. In fact, Reiss not only states there is no imminent contract extension in place, he also reports that Thuney could be traded. Reiss mentions that a possible trade bears watching during the NFL Draft this upcoming weekend.
“With the Patriots tight against the salary cap (about $1 million in space), and having surprisingly assigned the franchise tag to starting left guard Joe Thuney at the top-of-the-market figure of $14.78 million, Thuney's future with the franchise bears watching during the draft. If a guard-needy team is willing to deal a second- or high third-rounder to help fill in the Patriots' draft board, that would have to be something Belichick seriously considers with the knowledge that the sides haven't been close to an extension. Thuney holds notable leverage because of the high franchise-tag figure.”
Thuney has started all 64 games he's appeared in during the course of his four-year career. The 27-year-old guard has played a major role in New England's dominance along the offensive line in recent years.
However, as Reiss notes, the Patriots could be tempted by a second or third-round draft pick. New England has many positions of need, including most notably, quarterback and tight end. During that same article, Reiss mentions how the University of Washington's Jacob Eason could be a natural fit for the Patriots' system. Eason projects as a Day 2 pick, which would fall in line with the second or third-round draft selection status.
Considering the Patriots' penchant for unloading players before they command big salaries, don't be surprised if New England trades Thuney on draft day.
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