The Patriots are one of 16 teams to return their top personnel on the offensive line in 2009. Continuity is often viewed as a positive up front, although in drafting three linemen this year, the Patriots are grooming blockers for the future as change seems inevitable with so many linemen entering the final year of their contracts. Because the Patriots spread the field as much as they do -- 62 percent of the team's snaps last season came with three- or four-receiver packages on the field -- the line is put in more challenging situations than other NFL units and that can sometimes make them look more vulnerable. The Patriots finished seventh in rushing offense in 2008 (averaging 4.4 yards per carry), production that can be attributed in part to solid line play.
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