Patriots guard Logan Mankins is one of the 212 NFL players that will be a restricted free agent this offseason barring a new collective bargaining agreement.
But he would like the security of a long-term contract.
“You see other guys signing extensions and wish you were one. It is what it is,” Mankins said Wednesday, according to Tom Curran of Comcast Sports New England. “You have to ask the powers that be around here if I’ll get one or not.”
Mankins is likely referring to his offensive line teammates Nick Kaczur and Dan Connolly, who recently signed extensions with the Patriots.
The difference between Mankins and his buddies is that he now has two Pro Bowl nods on his resume. A player of his market value is trickier to sign, especially with the uncertainty regarding next year’s potential uncapped season.
And the reality in New England is that Vince Wilfork may take priority when it comes to spending Robert Kraft’s money -- especially since Mankins will have no room to leave barring a new CBA.