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Guarding The GOAT: The New England Patriots and the Changing of the Guards

John Hannah. Sam Adams. Logan Mankins. The offensive guard position was usually one of stability in New England. Yet, as of late, this stability has started to fade and the position is now one of more questions than answers.

It all started with the retirement of Stephen Neal following the 2010 season. The former college wrestler was the team's primary right guard for seven years and when he left football, the stability left the Patriots' interior offensive line. Neal was replaced by Brian Waters, who was replaced by Dan Connolly, who was subsequently replaced by Ryan Wendell, who has since settled in as the starter.