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Patriots, Matt Light on the verge of a deal

Published July 29, 2011 02:51 AM
Matt Light

FILE - This Nov. 7, 2010, file photo shows New England Patriots offensive tackle Matt Light watching from the bench during an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns, in Cleveland. The NFL players’ union has advised its members to prepare for a lockout it expects to come in March, telling players to save their last three game checks this year in case there is no season in 2011. The one-page letter on NFLPA stationery said the union expects the lockout to come on March 4, and that players should work with their advisers to prepare for an impending lack of income. It also said the league is planning to cancel the players’ health insurance. Light, one of the teamss player representatives, said players understand the nature of the business but the threat to cancel health insurance is different. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan, File)

AP

Yesterday the New England Patriots pulled off trades to bring in Albert Haynesworth and Chad Ochocinco. Today they may complete a deal to retain one of their own players, who has a lower national profile but will likely have a greater impact on the team.

Matt Light, the free agent left tackle who started all 16 games for the Patriots last season, is on the verge of a deal with the Patriots and expected to sign soon, the Boston Globe reports.

The 33-year-old Light has spent all 10 of his NFL seasons with the Patriots and has always been a starter when healthy. He’s generally recognized as the best free-agent offensive tackle in the league this year.

First-round draft pick Nate Solder is expected to be the starter at left tackle some day, but the Patriots would prefer that it not be as a rookie. If Light stays, that gives the Patriots time to ease Solder into the role.