Going back to last year, the Patriots have consistently made offers to Bauer that would put Mankins second or third among guards.

Several agents who represent high-performing offensive linemen and are familiar with the offer have said they would have taken the Patriots’ offer without much thought.

If Bauer insists on making Mankins the highest-paid guard in the league, maybe he should look elsewhere. In case Bauer hasn’t noticed, the Patriots aren’t in the habit of handing out premier contracts at any position besides quarterback.