Former Chief Refusing to Join AFC Rival Despite Being Free Agent
By Cem Yolbulan
With a quarter of the NFL season behind us, teams are trying to upgrade in some positions of need or fill the holes on their roster. As injuries pile up and certain players underperform, teams turn to the free-agent market to see if they can improve their rotation.
At this point in the season, there aren't too many quality free agents still available, especially in important positions like the offensive line. Former Chiefs starter Donovan Smith is one of the few competent offensive linemen left on the market. However, according to the latest reports, he is being picky about his next team.
According to Boston Sports Journal's Mike Giardi, the veteran left tackle has received interest from the New England Patriots but turned it down.
NFL News: Donovan Smith Reportedly Turned Down Patriots' Offer
Mayo remains insistent that the Pats aren't in the veteran free agent tackle market. My understanding is the two big names - Donovan Smith and Charles Leno - currently aren't interested.
— Mike Giardi (@MikeGiardi) October 2, 2024
The New England Patriots are depleted on the offensive line. They are dealing with significant injuries to multiple starters and had three different left tackles start in four games. Their interest in Smith is therefore understandable.
Smith turning down an opportunity to be a starter may seem odd at first but it's important to remember that he is a 31-year-old veteran who has made the postseason in each of his last four seasons and won two Super Bowls. He presumably wants to hold out for a better opportunity where he can play meaningful football late in the season.
The Patriots are 1-3 and have been one of the worst teams in the league. They are too young and injured. Adding the Penn State product isn't going to change their fate this season. Whether Smith's gamble will work and he can get on a better team remains to be seen.
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