Monday, March 18, 2013

A glance at busy offseason for AFC East O-lines

BY NICK ST. DENIS

Wide receiver has clearly been a focal point for AFC East teams in the 2013 version of free agency. Offensive line looks to be just as important.

Former Miami Dolphins left tackle Jake Long signed with the St. Louis Rams less than a week after ex-Buffalo Bills guard Andy Levitre joined the Tennessee Titans. (photo: Chris Seward, Flickr)

The New England Patriots have yet to make a move on tackle Sebastian Vollmer, and the New York Jets' starting guards last season in Brandon Moore and Matt Slauson are both still on the open market.

As the four teams look to fill their respective voids, there's certain to be plenty of crossover between rivals.

New England signed former Atlanta Falcons tackle Will Svitek over the weekend as insurance for its in-limbo situation, and it is still in the Vollmer sweepstakes. However, Vollmer is now an intriguing option for the Dolphins, who absolutely need to bring someone in to work opposite youngster Jonathan Martin.

Brandon Moore doesn't look like a Jet anymore, but he's probably getting a pretty good look from the Bills, who have a handful of former Jets coaches -- albeit on defense -- now on their side.

The Jets recently nabbed former Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Willie Colon, who will likely be Moore's replacement, and there's a good chance Slauson makes his way back to New York.

Eric Winston, formerly of the Kansas City Chiefs, and Andre Smith, formerly of the Cincinnati Bengals, are also among the top free agent offensive linemen available.

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