Patriots offensive tackle Nate Solder has been in the news more than he'd probably like to be in the last three weeks after it became public that he missed some of last year's offseason workouts while recovering from testicular cancer surgery.
The typically reserved Solder, while still humble and generally soft-spoken as he addresses questions, has made a point to stress the importance of early detection and how such precautions may have saved his life.
He also has downplayed the significance of playing last season while recovering from the surgery, most notably during the first quarter of the year when the Patriots offensive line was under fire for some lackluster performances.
The Patriots added some depth by drafting a pair of offensive lineman this past weekend. The additions of Tre Jackson from Florida State and Shaquille Mason from Georgia Tech didn't faze Solder, who welcomes the competition.
"Well, you also want to be on the best team you can be on," said Solder. "The more good players they can bring in the better. We're always competing for a job. We're always trying to get better and be a part of that."
Solder, the Patriots first-round draft choice in 2011 stopped short of offering the rookies any advice publicly.
"You know what, I'll save the advice," said Solder. "They have a lot to learn."
Cox Media Group
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