Source: Patriots OT Marcus Cannon plans to opt out of 2020 season

Patriots starting right tackle Marcus Cannon intends to opt out of the 2020 season due to concern over playing in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Herald has learned.

According to a source, Cannon has seriously considered opting out in recent days, often discussing the possibility with his family. Along with the Patriots’ other veterans, Cannon was expected to report to Gillette Stadium on Tuesday for COVID-19 testing. However, as of Monday night, Cannon now plans on missing the season all together.

The 32-year-old would have played his 10th season starting this September. As a rookie, Cannon overcame Non-Hodgkins’ lymphoma before launching a lengthy pro career. He was diagnosed shortly before being selected in the fifth round of 2011 draft out of TCU.

Since then, Cannon’s proven to be a steady starter on the Pats’ offensive line. He started 15 games last year, missing one due to a shoulder injury. His best season came in 2016, when he earned an All-Pro nod.

Cannon is expected to become the third Patriot to opt out of the 2020 season, following fullback Danny Vitale and offensive guard Najee Toran earlier on Monday.

His departure will be a significant blow to the Pats’ offensive line, which is in shorty supply of proven tackle depth.

After starting left tackle Isaiah Wynn, the list includes Korey Cunningham, Yodny Cajuste, a 2019 draft pick who spent last year on injured reserve, and 2020 sixth-round pick Justin Herron. While Cunningham has a bit of experience at tackle (seven NFL game appearances), Cajuste and Herron have none. The only other lineman with notable experience at tackle is starting left guard Joe Thuney, who is a career guard as a pro.

The Pats could also acquire a tackle via trade or sign one off the street, as they did last season with Marshall Newhouse after Cannon went down in Week 1.

Patriots offensive line coaches Cole Popovich and Carmen Bricillo figure to now have their hands full sorting out the starting line, as they replace legendary assistant Dante Scarnecchia.

from Boston Herald https://ift.tt/3fcWz3O