Transaction analysis

ANALYSIS

The Patriots' signing of veteran free-agent offensive lineman John Welbourn today is an indication that the team's decision-makers have concerns with the depth along the line.

At this morning's practice, the team had 11 linemen dressed, meaning only two layers of a depth chart could be filled (three layers would be ideal). Tackle is the specific trouble spot, with Matt Light, Ryan O'Callaghan and Oliver Ross (PUP) all sidelined -- and Anthony Clement placed on injured reserve Saturday. Guard Stephen Neal is also on PUP.

The first-team offensive line at practice was Nick Kaczur (left tackle), Logan Mankins (left guard), Dan Koppen (center), Billy Yates (right guard) and Wesley Britt (right tackle).

The second line was comprised of Barry Stokes, Dan Connolly, Russ Hochstein, Pete McMahon and Jimmy Martin. Rookie free agent Ryan Wendell was the additional second-string player. Those six linemen mixed and matched at various positions, creating different combinations because they are likely to earn the bulk of the playing time Thursday night -- essentially serving as the second and third string.

The likely concern among the coaching staff is being forced into a position where first-stringers are thrust back into action and are overtaxed in the preseason. Such a scenario can have damaging long-lasting effects over the course of a 16-game regular season. The Welbourn signing helps address that -- and buys some more time for the injured players to return.

At this point, the offensive line appears to be the most significant trouble spot for the Patriots.