Free agent guard Dan Connolly reportedly met with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Tuesday.
If the 32-year-old guard signs with Tampa Bay, he will be reunited with former teammate Logan Mankins, who was traded to the Buccaneers last season.
Former Patriots offensive lineman Dan Koppen believes Connolly will give the Patriots an opportunity to make an offer before signing elsewhere.
"Right now they're letting him test free agency," said Koppen. "Right now he's fielding offers. When he gets an offer, he'll come back to the Patriots. If it's competitive, I believe Dan will choose to stay with New England.
"He has roots [in New England]. This is a kid who has worked hard. He earned everything that he got. New England gave him a chance. I believe he'll give New England a chance."