Patriots fans surely are excited about the possibility of New England targeting players at flashy positions this offseason, like wide receiver and edge rusher.

However, it’s imperative for Mike Vrabel and company to also address needs at some of the more unheralded spots on the football field.

With Drake Maye looking every bit of a legitimate franchise quarterback, much of the Patriots’ offseason focus should be finding ways to make life easier for the 22-year-old. A good place to start would be improving the offensive line, and ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler believes tackle Alaric Jackson could be a “potential fit” in Foxboro, Mass.

Jackson, who Fowler believes “might have priced himself out of Los Angeles,” isn’t an All-Pro-caliber talent. But considering what New England currently features on that depth chart, the 2021 second-round pick could be a marked upgrade in the trenches.

“With his 6-7, 345-pound frame, Jackson has the play strength to anchor against power off the edge, and he understands how to win with positioning. He isn’t a natural displacer on contact, but with 35 career starts, he can upgrade a team in need of a left tackle,” ESPN’s Matt Bowen wrote.

Of course, the Patriots’ free agency plans could be impacted by its projected approach to the draft. And at least one NFL draft guru has New England taking an elite O-lineman prospect at No. 4 overall.