The Patriots have made two minor roster moves today, releasing tackle John Wise, and signing center/guard Eric Ghiaciuc.
Ghiaciuc, 29, was with the Chargers last season, but did not play a game. In 2008 with the Bengals, Ghiaciuc played and started all 16 games, taking part in all but 11 snaps, according to profootballfocus.com. According to the website, Ghiaciuc was the 28th best center in football that year, and his run/pass blocking was relatively balanced. Overall, in his four seasons with the Bengals, Ghiaciuc played in 48 games with a total of 42 starts.
So what does all of this mean?
Well, it's pretty obvious that the Patriots are pretty thin on the interior line with Nick Kaczur injured, and Logan Mankins holding out. Ghiaciuc offers some experience at the guard position. While the Patriots would prefer Mankins or Kaczur at left guard, if necessary, Ghiaciuc would certainly be capable of starting a few games for the Patriots.
If Mankins and/or Kaczur return to the team before the regular season, Ghiaciuc probably will not even make the roster. For now, however, Ghiaciuc serves as an experienced safety option for the team.