On May 1, 2025, the New England Patriots made a stunning decision regarding offensive lineman Cole Strange, their first-round pick (29th overall) in the 2022 NFL Draft. According to ESPN, the team opted not to exercise the fifth-year option on Strange’s rookie contract, meaning he will become a free agent after the 2025 season. This move has sparked significant discussion in the NFL community, especially given the high expectations once placed on Strange as a cornerstone of the Patriots’ offensive line.
Background of the Decision
Cole Strange, a product of the University of Chattanooga, was a controversial selection by former head coach Bill Belichick in the 2022 Draft. Though projected as a second- or third-round pick, the Patriots surprised many by taking him in the first round, banking on his athleticism and versatility. Over three NFL seasons, Strange has appeared in 30 games, starting 29, primarily at left guard. However, injuries have sidelined him for 21 games, including most of the 2024 season due to a severe hamstring injury.
The Patriots’ offensive line, particularly the interior, struggled significantly in 2024, becoming one of the team’s biggest weaknesses under head coach Jerod Mayo. Strange, despite returning for the final three games of the season, failed to demonstrate the consistency needed to convince the new leadership—head coach Mike Vrabel and personnel director Eliot Wolf—of his long-term value.
Why the Patriots Declined the Fifth-Year Option
The fifth-year option would have guaranteed Strange a $16.8 million salary in 2026, a substantial commitment for a player yet to prove his reliability. According to ESPN, the Patriots considered the following factors:
Persistent Injuries: Strange has played only 13 games over the past two seasons, raising concerns about his durability.
Offensive Line Performance: The Patriots’ interior line has struggled to protect quarterback Drake Maye, and Strange has not shown the leadership or impact expected of a first-round pick.
Leadership Transition: With Vrabel and Wolf at the helm, the Patriots are restructuring their roster to align with a new philosophy. Strange, a remnant of the Belichick era, appears to no longer fit into their long-term plans.
Additionally, the Patriots invested heavily in their offensive line during the 2025 Draft, selecting left tackle Will Campbell with the fourth overall pick and center Jared Wilson in the third round. These moves suggest a strategic overhaul of the line, with Strange’s declined option likely part of that plan.
Reactions and Cole Strange’s Future
The Patriots’ decision has drawn mixed reactions. Some analysts view it as a pragmatic move, given Strange’s failure to meet first-round expectations. Others argue the team may have acted prematurely, as Strange still has developmental potential, particularly after being asked to experiment at center this season.
Entering the final year of his rookie contract, the 2025 season will be Strange’s last chance to prove his worth in New England. Without a breakout performance, he may need to seek a new team in 2026. However, his experience and versatility across multiple offensive line positions could still attract interest from other teams in free agency.
Conclusion
The decision to decline Cole Strange’s fifth-year option marks a pivotal moment in the New England Patriots’ rebuilding process. Under Mike Vrabel’s leadership, the team is demonstrating decisiveness in shaping a new roster focused on protecting young quarterback Drake Maye and improving the offensive line’s performance. For Strange, this presents a significant challenge but also an opportunity to redefine his career in the upcoming season.