Seventh in a multipart Patriots series on free-agent fits at various positions leading into the start of free agency March 10.
Position: Offensive tackle
Players under contract for 2015: Nate Solder (2015), Sebastian Vollmer (2016), Marcus Cannon (2016), Cameron Fleming (2017), Jordan Devey (2015)
Level of need: Low
Projected top targets: None
Other names of note: Byron Bell (Panthers), Bryan Bulaga (Packers), Derek Newton (Texans), Tyler Polumbus (Redskins), Jermey Parnell (Cowboys)
Market conditions: If Cannon had not signed an extension in December, he might be viewed as one of the top tackles on the free-agent market. Not a lot to choose from. The draft is stronger in this area, although those prospects will obviously require some developmental time.
Offensive tackle-based questions: Any progress/talks with Solder, the blindside protector who enters the final year of his contract at $7.4 million?