OT Veldheer hangs ’em up

Team now thin behind Cannon, Wynn

Veteran offensive tackle Jared Veldheer, who signed with the Patriots eight days ago, is retiring from the NFL.

The 31-year-old Veldheer projected as the team’s No. 3 tackle behind Marcus Cannon and second-year pro Isaiah Wynn.

Veldheer amassed 113 starts throughout his nineyear career.

The unexpected retirement leaves the Patriots a bit thin at tackle. Cannon is locked in as the starter on the right side, but he’s battled injuries at times. Cannon has missed 16 games dating to the 2015 season.

Wynn, the team’s firstround pick a year ago, is in position to take the place of Trent Brown on the left side. Wynn is recovering from a season-ending Achilles injury suffered during the 2018 preseason.

Currently, rookie Yodny Cajuste looks to be the No. 3 tackle. A third-round pick, Cajuste brings plenty of potential — and injury risk — to Foxboro. He twice suffered season-ending knee injuries in college, and he’s currently rehabbing from a March quadriceps surgery. Cajuste isn’t expected to be on the field until training camp.

Third-year pro Cole Croston should see additional reps in the interim.

The Patriots could explore the possibility of adding another veteran to the group.

Garry Gilliam, who previously started for the Seahawks and 49ers, is among those who remain unsigned. Former Raiders tackle Donald Penn also is a free agent.

ASJ absent

The Patriots will be without tight end Austin SeferianJenkins for this week’s OTAs, according to a source.

Seferian-Jenkins’ absence has been excused by the coaching staff.

The veteran tight end is competing with Ben Watson for the starting job. At 6-foot-5, 262 pounds, Seferian-Jenkins possesses the size and athleticism to excel in the Pats’ high-powered offense. A second-round pick in 2014, Seferian-Jenkins has shown flashes throughout his career but has struggled to put together consistent stretches. He’s appeared in 10-plus games just once in his five-year career.

Seferian-Jenkins picked the Patriots ahead of the Seahawks in free agency.

ANDY CROSS / THE DENVER POST ABRUPT ENDING: Offensive tackle Jared Veldheer, who recently signed with the Patriots, announced his retirement yesterday.