Training camp has begun and Nick Mangold is still out of a job. Many thought the veteran center would retire from the NFL after he was released by the New York Jets, but he has given no indication that is ready to do so. When a team suffers an injury in the middle of their offensive line during the preseason, someone will surely come calling for Mangold. But as he waits out his stint in free agency, which four teams should consider signing him?
4. New York Giants
Mangold may be 33 years old, but even he would be able to improve the Giants' beleaguered offensive line.
They finished 29th in rushing yards allowed last season and were considered one of the five worst offensive lines in the NFL last season, according to Pro Football Focus. The offensive line has already dealt with some injury concerns during minicamp, so the team has reason to act in free agency to shore up the line - Mangold would be the best option to do so.
3. Baltimore Ravens
Before Thursday, there was no reason to put the Ravens on the list. Sure, they have a concern at the center position, but they had three candidates for the job. But then, John Urschel retired from the NFL out of the blue to go pursue a degree at MIT - so that leaves two candidates. Competition is never a bad thing and the seven-time Pro Bowler may be the best option the team would have.
Mangold is certainly better than Ryan Jensen, even at his advanced age.
2. Atlanta Falcons
Offensive line depth is one of the biggest concerns for the defending NFC champions. Alex Mack is one of the best centers in football, but he barely made it to the Super Bowl after suffering a broken fibula. If he missed any significant time with an injury, the Falcons would be losing the centerpiece of their line.
Mangold is someone who can step in at a moment's notice and perform at an acceptable level for a decent stretch of games.
1. New England Patriots
Shield your eyes, New York Jets fans. The Patriots have already poached David Harris from the team this offseason - they clearly enjoy stealing players from their divisional rivals.
Mangold perfectly fits the mold of a player searching for a championship who will come in, put in their work, and not prove to be any sort of distraction for the team. Just like Harris, Mangold is in the twilight of his NFL career, so if he wants to win, now is the time - the New England Patriots offer the best opportunity among any team in the league to accomplish that goal.
