2 months ago
Mike Vrabel used his weekly Monday appearance on The Greg Hill Show on Sportsradio 93.7 WEEI to work back through New England's 13-10 loss in Seattle, and the players he chose to talk about were three rookies who had never taken an NFL snap before Sept. 9: tight end Eli Raridon, edge rusher Gabe Jacas and linebacker Namdi Obiazor.
Raridon, the third-round pick out of Notre Dame, caught a two-yard touchdown from Drake Maye that produced the first points of the 2026 NFL season. He played 38 offensive snaps, 54 percent of New England's total, working as the second tight end behind Hunter Henry.
Jacas, taken 55th overall out of Illinois after the Patriots sent three picks to the Los Angeles Chargers to move up, came off a double team for his first career sack and later added a tackle for loss.
Obiazor, a sixth-round pick from TCU, opened the game with a hit on the kickoff and played 20 special teams snaps without seeing a defensive one.
Jun 2, 2026; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel holds a press conference before the start of practices at the team's OTA at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images
#jacas #obiazor #Patriots #taken
Raridon, the third-round pick out of Notre Dame, caught a two-yard touchdown from Drake Maye that produced the first points of the 2026 NFL season. He played 38 offensive snaps, 54 percent of New England's total, working as the second tight end behind Hunter Henry.
Jacas, taken 55th overall out of Illinois after the Patriots sent three picks to the Los Angeles Chargers to move up, came off a double team for his first career sack and later added a tackle for loss.
Obiazor, a sixth-round pick from TCU, opened the game with a hit on the kickoff and played 20 special teams snaps without seeing a defensive one.
Jun 2, 2026; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel holds a press conference before the start of practices at the team's OTA at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images
#jacas #obiazor #Patriots #taken
2 months ago
The New England Patriots may need to address their edge rusher unit after another injury landed on Harold Landry's doorstep to begin the 2026 NFL season.
The Patriots have a productive unit when healthy, led by Landry and Dre'Mont Jones, with rookie Gabe Jacas expected to produce meaningfully for the team. However, more may be needed.
Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox labeled Maxx Crosby and Kayvon Thibodeaux as being two star edge rushers that the Patriots ought to trade for in 2026, in the event that they pursue a player to fill their needs in the trade market.
"If another team comes calling about Crosby, the Raiders will undoubtedly listen," Knox said. "They're in the early stages of a rebuild and may not be ready to contend while Crosby is still in his playing prime. The asking price will be high, but teams that believe they can chase a Super Bowl are bound to target him before November 10."
Crosby is a superstar edge rusher who has the talent to take New England over the top in the Super Bowl race. Giving up draft picks and a player or two will do the Patriots much good to stack their roster with Drake Maye, A.J. Brown, Christian Gonzalez, Romeo Doubs and Crosby as the heaviest-hitters on their team.
#super
The Patriots have a productive unit when healthy, led by Landry and Dre'Mont Jones, with rookie Gabe Jacas expected to produce meaningfully for the team. However, more may be needed.
Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox labeled Maxx Crosby and Kayvon Thibodeaux as being two star edge rushers that the Patriots ought to trade for in 2026, in the event that they pursue a player to fill their needs in the trade market.
"If another team comes calling about Crosby, the Raiders will undoubtedly listen," Knox said. "They're in the early stages of a rebuild and may not be ready to contend while Crosby is still in his playing prime. The asking price will be high, but teams that believe they can chase a Super Bowl are bound to target him before November 10."
Crosby is a superstar edge rusher who has the talent to take New England over the top in the Super Bowl race. Giving up draft picks and a player or two will do the Patriots much good to stack their roster with Drake Maye, A.J. Brown, Christian Gonzalez, Romeo Doubs and Crosby as the heaviest-hitters on their team.
#super
2 months ago
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – There's a lot of talk regarding the New England Patriots' depth at the edge position.
After signing Dre'Mont Jones this offseason, it became clear throughout the summer that Elijah Ponder would be playing opposite him. But behind them are two rookies: Gabe Jacas and Quintayvious Hutchins.
However, while the public might be concerned, the feeling inside the room is nothing but confidence and determination.
"I have a lot of confidence. We got a lot of young, talented players that are ready to compete and ready to show themselves, and you got to appreciate that," Jones told Patriots Wire in a one-on-one conversation on Thursday. "We want to see how the season goes, obviously, but I think there's a lot of confidence and a lot to be positive about moving forward."
They've heard a bit of the noise, but are ready to prove everyone wrong.
#england
After signing Dre'Mont Jones this offseason, it became clear throughout the summer that Elijah Ponder would be playing opposite him. But behind them are two rookies: Gabe Jacas and Quintayvious Hutchins.
However, while the public might be concerned, the feeling inside the room is nothing but confidence and determination.
"I have a lot of confidence. We got a lot of young, talented players that are ready to compete and ready to show themselves, and you got to appreciate that," Jones told Patriots Wire in a one-on-one conversation on Thursday. "We want to see how the season goes, obviously, but I think there's a lot of confidence and a lot to be positive about moving forward."
They've heard a bit of the noise, but are ready to prove everyone wrong.
#england
2 months ago
New England Patriots rookies' jerseys will have a special addition on them when they take the field for the first time this season.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, beginning this season, the NFL's rookies will wear Topps' Debut Patches on their jerseys in their respective debuts, before the patches are placed in one-of-one trading cards after their first games conclude.
Topps returned to the NFL during the spring, as their parent company Fanatics, as well as the NFL and NFLPA, came together to make the famous brand the league's official trading card licensee. The Debut Patch commemorates the brand's return to the league.
The Patriots have several rookies generating much anticipation ahead of the season, including Gabe Jacas and Caleb Lomu, who will get to help Topps put themselves back on the NFL map on the biggest stage. They, along with the rest of New England's first-year players, will get the chance to wear the patches in their first game action in the upcoming 17-game slate.
Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.
#Patriots #first #jerseys
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, beginning this season, the NFL's rookies will wear Topps' Debut Patches on their jerseys in their respective debuts, before the patches are placed in one-of-one trading cards after their first games conclude.
Topps returned to the NFL during the spring, as their parent company Fanatics, as well as the NFL and NFLPA, came together to make the famous brand the league's official trading card licensee. The Debut Patch commemorates the brand's return to the league.
The Patriots have several rookies generating much anticipation ahead of the season, including Gabe Jacas and Caleb Lomu, who will get to help Topps put themselves back on the NFL map on the biggest stage. They, along with the rest of New England's first-year players, will get the chance to wear the patches in their first game action in the upcoming 17-game slate.
Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook.
#Patriots #first #jerseys
3 months ago
New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel is not afraid of being hard on rookie Gabe Jacas.
In last Thursday's preseason opener, that led to Vrabel calling out Jacas on the sidelines and challenging the rookie to compete harder on special teams. Jacas recorded a tackle shortly after.
"I think that it needs to be better. It was better on Saturday [in practice] than it was in the game," Vrabel said this week of Jacas' progress. "We pointed some things out to him in the game, and I felt it was really cool of him to be able to make those corrections and look at some of the body positions that we feel like he should be in, and he was really conscious of those, and I saw those things translate in just a quick, short amount of time from the meeting after the game to Saturday's practice."
Jacas has received plenty of 1-on-1 coaching from Vrabel throughout training camp. That's included time on special teams, as Jacas is part of the team's top punt protection group — a unit the 22-year-old had never played before.
So far, Jacas has appreciated the hard coaching.
#jacas #game #practice
In last Thursday's preseason opener, that led to Vrabel calling out Jacas on the sidelines and challenging the rookie to compete harder on special teams. Jacas recorded a tackle shortly after.
"I think that it needs to be better. It was better on Saturday [in practice] than it was in the game," Vrabel said this week of Jacas' progress. "We pointed some things out to him in the game, and I felt it was really cool of him to be able to make those corrections and look at some of the body positions that we feel like he should be in, and he was really conscious of those, and I saw those things translate in just a quick, short amount of time from the meeting after the game to Saturday's practice."
Jacas has received plenty of 1-on-1 coaching from Vrabel throughout training camp. That's included time on special teams, as Jacas is part of the team's top punt protection group — a unit the 22-year-old had never played before.
So far, Jacas has appreciated the hard coaching.
#jacas #game #practice
3 months ago
Mike Vrabel Sends Clear Message To Patriots' Young Players originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots saw flashes from their young players in the preseason opener. Mike Vrabel wants considerably more. New England's head coach offered a revealing ****** sment of Gabe Jacas and Caleb Lomu after reviewing the film from the Patriots' 13-13 tie with the Indianapolis Colts.
"I think it's a first start," Vrabel said during his Saturday press conference. "I think there's a lot of room for improvement. That's why we coach."
Jacas and Lomu are expected to compete for meaningful roles, but Vrabel made it clear that draft status will not excuse normal rookie growing pains.
For Jacas, the next step is translating his physical traits into more consistent defensive execution. The rookie flashed his power against Indianapolis, including pressure that helped produce a Kindle Vildor interception, but also experienced the speed and ****** ing challenges that come with an NFL game.
#vrabel #nesn #clear #players
The New England Patriots saw flashes from their young players in the preseason opener. Mike Vrabel wants considerably more. New England's head coach offered a revealing ****** sment of Gabe Jacas and Caleb Lomu after reviewing the film from the Patriots' 13-13 tie with the Indianapolis Colts.
"I think it's a first start," Vrabel said during his Saturday press conference. "I think there's a lot of room for improvement. That's why we coach."
Jacas and Lomu are expected to compete for meaningful roles, but Vrabel made it clear that draft status will not excuse normal rookie growing pains.
For Jacas, the next step is translating his physical traits into more consistent defensive execution. The rookie flashed his power against Indianapolis, including pressure that helped produce a Kindle Vildor interception, but also experienced the speed and ****** ing challenges that come with an NFL game.
#vrabel #nesn #clear #players
3 months ago
The New England Patriots had to wait a while before Gabe Jacas finally showed up. When he did, however, the second-round draft selection wanted to make sure to send a clear message to his new team and its fans.
Jacas was bought in and ready to work.
"I just want to let all the Patriots fans now that I'm all behind everybody," the rookie defender said. "You're going to get the best player out of me each and every game. Anything I can do to help the team win, I'm going to do it. Whatever it takes."
Coupled with his skillset, Jacas' approach has allowed him to bring the three E's to the Patriots defensive line: eagerness, energy, explosiveness.
Just ask fellow outside linebacker Dre'Mont Jones
#jacas #team #going #gabe
Jacas was bought in and ready to work.
"I just want to let all the Patriots fans now that I'm all behind everybody," the rookie defender said. "You're going to get the best player out of me each and every game. Anything I can do to help the team win, I'm going to do it. Whatever it takes."
Coupled with his skillset, Jacas' approach has allowed him to bring the three E's to the Patriots defensive line: eagerness, energy, explosiveness.
Just ask fellow outside linebacker Dre'Mont Jones
#jacas #team #going #gabe
3 months ago
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) - Illinois football will need guys to step up on the defensive line in 2026.
The Illini saw a flood of departures after the 2025 season, via both graduation and the transfer portal. Gabe Jacas, arguably Illinois' best player on defense in 2025, graduated, and was drafted by the New England Patriots. James Thompson and Leon Lowery, both tied for second on the team in sacks on the year, graduated as well. Tomiwa Durojaiye also contributed up front for Illinois, and he transferred to South Carolina.
Illinois lost young talent to the portal in Angelo McCullum and Eli Coenen, too.
Who could make noise in opposing backfields in 2026?
Illini head coach Bret Bielema offered up three potential starters when talking with reporters at Big Ten Football Media Days in late July. He says Joe Barna, Pat Farrell and Darrell Prater are likely to see lots of snaps in 2026.
#Football #england
The Illini saw a flood of departures after the 2025 season, via both graduation and the transfer portal. Gabe Jacas, arguably Illinois' best player on defense in 2025, graduated, and was drafted by the New England Patriots. James Thompson and Leon Lowery, both tied for second on the team in sacks on the year, graduated as well. Tomiwa Durojaiye also contributed up front for Illinois, and he transferred to South Carolina.
Illinois lost young talent to the portal in Angelo McCullum and Eli Coenen, too.
Who could make noise in opposing backfields in 2026?
Illini head coach Bret Bielema offered up three potential starters when talking with reporters at Big Ten Football Media Days in late July. He says Joe Barna, Pat Farrell and Darrell Prater are likely to see lots of snaps in 2026.
#Football #england
3 months ago
New England Patriots rookie edge rusher Gabe Jacas sent a message to supporters of the franchise after the team's ninth training camp practice of the summer.
According to 98.5 The Sports Hub, Jacas stated before reporters on Tuesday that he is determined to play at the highest level possible in 2026.
"I just want to let all the Patriots fans know that I'm behind everybody and you're going to get the best player out of me each and every game," Jacas said. "And just, anything I can do to help the team win, I'm going to do it, whatever it takes."
Jacas signed his rookie deal with the Patriots on July 26, nearly three months after getting drafted by the Patriots with the No. 55 overall pick on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft. He took the practice field for the first time with the team this summer during training camp.
The 22-year-old is in line to play behind Harold Landry and Dre'Mont Jones on the edge in 2026 as one of the top backups on the team for next season.
#Patriots #edge #practice #play
According to 98.5 The Sports Hub, Jacas stated before reporters on Tuesday that he is determined to play at the highest level possible in 2026.
"I just want to let all the Patriots fans know that I'm behind everybody and you're going to get the best player out of me each and every game," Jacas said. "And just, anything I can do to help the team win, I'm going to do it, whatever it takes."
Jacas signed his rookie deal with the Patriots on July 26, nearly three months after getting drafted by the Patriots with the No. 55 overall pick on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft. He took the practice field for the first time with the team this summer during training camp.
The 22-year-old is in line to play behind Harold Landry and Dre'Mont Jones on the edge in 2026 as one of the top backups on the team for next season.
#Patriots #edge #practice #play
3 months ago
FOXBORO — It was another day of sunshiine for the New England Patriots on Tuesday, Aug. 4, as they practiced in front of fans for the first time this week after moving Monday's practice indoors due to inclement weather.
Here are three takeaways from Tuesday's session:
Jacas, the second-round pick who has had limited participation in practice since being cleared to practice on Aug. 1, once again saw his practice time increase as he continues to work towards full participation after missing the start of training camp due to contract negotiations.
"He'll have a few more reps than he did yesterday," head coach Mike Vrabel said before practice, "and, [in] these situations, he has to just understand, and it's good to see him get acclimated to the special teams stuff. So, I think it's going well. I think we're off to a good start, and hopefully he can continue to keep adding things and figure out where he can help us defensively and, really, special teams."
Jacas participated in team drills for the second day in a row, lining up against a fellow rookie, offensive tackle Caleb Lomu. His participation in the drills showed where he was limited, as he only appeared for one session before watching from the sideline the rest of the time.
#practice #good
Here are three takeaways from Tuesday's session:
Jacas, the second-round pick who has had limited participation in practice since being cleared to practice on Aug. 1, once again saw his practice time increase as he continues to work towards full participation after missing the start of training camp due to contract negotiations.
"He'll have a few more reps than he did yesterday," head coach Mike Vrabel said before practice, "and, [in] these situations, he has to just understand, and it's good to see him get acclimated to the special teams stuff. So, I think it's going well. I think we're off to a good start, and hopefully he can continue to keep adding things and figure out where he can help us defensively and, really, special teams."
Jacas participated in team drills for the second day in a row, lining up against a fellow rookie, offensive tackle Caleb Lomu. His participation in the drills showed where he was limited, as he only appeared for one session before watching from the sideline the rest of the time.
#practice #good
3 months ago
Patriots rookie linebacker Gabe Jacas is finally on the practice field after missing spring workouts and the start of training camp because of contract negotiations and a knee procedure.
Jacas, a second-round draft pick, arrived at training camp Saturday after becoming the last unsigned second-round selection in the NFL. He and the Patriots have since reached a contract agreement, allowing him to begin catching up with his teammates.
"Yeah first and foremost, I just want to say how grateful I am to be here. That was a long journey, but I'm just glad to be here, be part of this organization and it's a blessing to be at practice and running around."
Jacas said he's focused on moving forward after the contract process.
"All that stuff is behind me and whatever happened in the past is the past and just trying to look forward and focus on the future."
#camp #forward
Jacas, a second-round draft pick, arrived at training camp Saturday after becoming the last unsigned second-round selection in the NFL. He and the Patriots have since reached a contract agreement, allowing him to begin catching up with his teammates.
"Yeah first and foremost, I just want to say how grateful I am to be here. That was a long journey, but I'm just glad to be here, be part of this organization and it's a blessing to be at practice and running around."
Jacas said he's focused on moving forward after the contract process.
"All that stuff is behind me and whatever happened in the past is the past and just trying to look forward and focus on the future."
#camp #forward
3 months ago
TEAM TALK
Paul Perillo's Day 8 Blogservations: Competition heats up as dog days arrive in Foxborough.
Roster Move: Patriots sign DT Casey Rogers.
Press Conferences: Milton Williams, Kevin Byard, Will Campbell, Romeo Doubs, Dell Pettus, Lan Larison
Training Camp-Cast: Fourth padded practice in five days, Jacas full participant, Injury updates. (10 min. video)
#talk #paul
Paul Perillo's Day 8 Blogservations: Competition heats up as dog days arrive in Foxborough.
Roster Move: Patriots sign DT Casey Rogers.
Press Conferences: Milton Williams, Kevin Byard, Will Campbell, Romeo Doubs, Dell Pettus, Lan Larison
Training Camp-Cast: Fourth padded practice in five days, Jacas full participant, Injury updates. (10 min. video)
#talk #paul
3 months ago
New England Patriots defensive end Gabe Jacas knocked down **** istant coach Mike Smith during a tackling drill at Saturday's practice. On Monday, Smith was able to exact some revenge in a lighthearted moment at the Patriots' eighth training camp practice.
It all started when Jacas ran Smith over during the tackling drill over the weekend. This time, Smith stopped the drill midway through and pretended like he was giving Jacas instructions before wrapping up the unsuspecting rookie and taking him to the ground on the landing pad. He even threw some fake punches for good measure.
And now the two are even.
This is certainly a hilarious moment as the grind of practice continues.
The Patriots are hopeful that Jacas can be a major contributor for the team in his first NFL season. He practiced for the first time on Saturday in a limited fashion. However, on Monday, he repped with the second-team unit in team drills.
#jacas #smith #drill #moment
It all started when Jacas ran Smith over during the tackling drill over the weekend. This time, Smith stopped the drill midway through and pretended like he was giving Jacas instructions before wrapping up the unsuspecting rookie and taking him to the ground on the landing pad. He even threw some fake punches for good measure.
And now the two are even.
This is certainly a hilarious moment as the grind of practice continues.
The Patriots are hopeful that Jacas can be a major contributor for the team in his first NFL season. He practiced for the first time on Saturday in a limited fashion. However, on Monday, he repped with the second-team unit in team drills.
#jacas #smith #drill #moment
3 months ago
Patriots rookie outside linebacker Gabe Jacas made his NFL practice debut Saturday.
After starting training camp on the active/non-football injury list, Jacas passed his physical and returned to the practice field.
"We'll get Gabe back today," Mike Vrabel said Saturday morning. "He'll be out there in a limited role. We've talked to you about the return to play protocol that we have, and so now he gets handed over to the coaches, and that'll be in a limited role. He won't be involved in the team reps, but hopefully Monday, we'll see him back out there."
The beginning of Jacas' Patriots career has been turbulent after being drafted in the second round of the NFL Draft this spring.
After missing the offseason workout program following a knee procedure, Jacas was one of the last draft picks in the league to sign his rookie contract — a deal that included an uncommon injury waiver.
#gabe
After starting training camp on the active/non-football injury list, Jacas passed his physical and returned to the practice field.
"We'll get Gabe back today," Mike Vrabel said Saturday morning. "He'll be out there in a limited role. We've talked to you about the return to play protocol that we have, and so now he gets handed over to the coaches, and that'll be in a limited role. He won't be involved in the team reps, but hopefully Monday, we'll see him back out there."
The beginning of Jacas' Patriots career has been turbulent after being drafted in the second round of the NFL Draft this spring.
After missing the offseason workout program following a knee procedure, Jacas was one of the last draft picks in the league to sign his rookie contract — a deal that included an uncommon injury waiver.
#gabe
3 months ago
New England Patriots rookie edge rusher Gabe Jacas did not report to training camp.
The second-round pick defender has still yet to sign his rookie contract. It's a concerning situation with no end in sight, although Patriots coach Mike Vrabel did offer a little optimism when speaking with media members on Friday.
"We're continuing to work through the contract," Vrabel said. "I think those have been positive between the club and his representatives. Hopefully, we'll get him in here sooner rather than later. I'm not going to put a timeline on it or a timeframe, but I've spoken to Gabe personally. Excited to get him in when he's under contract."
When pressed for a reason for the hold-up, Vrabel wouldn't give a straight answer.
"Every contract is unique, every contract is different, and it'll get resolved. I'm positive that it will," said Vrabel.
#contract #Patriots #gabe #england
The second-round pick defender has still yet to sign his rookie contract. It's a concerning situation with no end in sight, although Patriots coach Mike Vrabel did offer a little optimism when speaking with media members on Friday.
"We're continuing to work through the contract," Vrabel said. "I think those have been positive between the club and his representatives. Hopefully, we'll get him in here sooner rather than later. I'm not going to put a timeline on it or a timeframe, but I've spoken to Gabe personally. Excited to get him in when he's under contract."
When pressed for a reason for the hold-up, Vrabel wouldn't give a straight answer.
"Every contract is unique, every contract is different, and it'll get resolved. I'm positive that it will," said Vrabel.
#contract #Patriots #gabe #england
3 months ago
The New England Patriots are set to begin training camp on Saturday. Gates open at 9:15 a.m. ET, and practice starts at 10:15 a.m. ET.
Practices will be located on the upper grass fields directly behind Gillette Stadium. Attendance is completely free to the public, and general parking is also free during the public practice days. There will be 13 training camp dates in total for fans to watch live.
This will be the 24th consecutive year of the team hosting the camp at Gillette Stadium.
It will be the start of the Patriots' quest to get back to the Super Bowl after falling short against the Seattle Seahawks last season. They've made strides in improving the offense significantly by adding top talent in the offseason, like wide receiver A.J. Brown, wide receiver Romeo Doubs, guard Alijah Vera-Tucker and rookie offensive tackles, Caleb Lomu and Damtrious Crownover.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Patriots signed veteran All-Pro safety Kevin Byard, along with using their second-round draft pick on rookie Gabe Jacas. All eyes will be on the Patriots to see if the magical 2025 run was a fluke or if the team picks back up where it left off last season.
#Patriots #practice
Practices will be located on the upper grass fields directly behind Gillette Stadium. Attendance is completely free to the public, and general parking is also free during the public practice days. There will be 13 training camp dates in total for fans to watch live.
This will be the 24th consecutive year of the team hosting the camp at Gillette Stadium.
It will be the start of the Patriots' quest to get back to the Super Bowl after falling short against the Seattle Seahawks last season. They've made strides in improving the offense significantly by adding top talent in the offseason, like wide receiver A.J. Brown, wide receiver Romeo Doubs, guard Alijah Vera-Tucker and rookie offensive tackles, Caleb Lomu and Damtrious Crownover.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Patriots signed veteran All-Pro safety Kevin Byard, along with using their second-round draft pick on rookie Gabe Jacas. All eyes will be on the Patriots to see if the magical 2025 run was a fluke or if the team picks back up where it left off last season.
#Patriots #practice
4 months ago
Training camp is right around the corner, and there are more concerns for the New England Patriots' edge rushing unit than there were at the start of the offseason.
When it comes to solving their issues on the edge, the Patriots are moonwalking backwards quicker than the late, great Michael Jackson.
Veteran Harold Landry III, who led the Patriots with 8.5 sacks last season, is reportedly expected to open the season on the physically unable to perform list. And Gabe Jacas, the second-round draft pick expected to throw on the red cape and help the team right out of the gate, missed all of the spring practices and has still yet to sign his rookie contract.
Expecting a miracle would be hoping that Landry can somehow stay consistently healthy for an entire season at 30 years old. It would also be hoping that the team signs Jacas, and the former Illinois standout's talent is so great that it supersedes the need for the spring work on the football field and in the classroom.
If those ideas feel too far-fetched, here are four emergency options for the Patriots to address their edge rusher concerns:
#Patriots #right #concerns
When it comes to solving their issues on the edge, the Patriots are moonwalking backwards quicker than the late, great Michael Jackson.
Veteran Harold Landry III, who led the Patriots with 8.5 sacks last season, is reportedly expected to open the season on the physically unable to perform list. And Gabe Jacas, the second-round draft pick expected to throw on the red cape and help the team right out of the gate, missed all of the spring practices and has still yet to sign his rookie contract.
Expecting a miracle would be hoping that Landry can somehow stay consistently healthy for an entire season at 30 years old. It would also be hoping that the team signs Jacas, and the former Illinois standout's talent is so great that it supersedes the need for the spring work on the football field and in the classroom.
If those ideas feel too far-fetched, here are four emergency options for the Patriots to address their edge rusher concerns:
#Patriots #right #concerns
4 months ago
LOCAL LINKS
Mike Reiss shares some quick-hit weekend thoughts: Will Christian Gonzalez’s extension get done before camp? Plus: Scotland calling, A.J. Brown **** ytics, More.
Steve Balestrieri’s Sunday Patriots News: Offseason deep dive, player spotlights, Romeo Doubs the X-Factor? Plus, comments on the CBS Sports piece that list the Pats having the 3rd-worst offseason; More.
Ethan Hurwitz identifies some burning questions ahead of training camp that the Patriots must answer. 1. What’s up with Gabe Jacas?
Khari Thompson‘s Patriots 2026 position preview: Wide receivers edition.
Mike Reiss shares some quick-hit weekend thoughts: Will Christian Gonzalez’s extension get done before camp? Plus: Scotland calling, A.J. Brown **** ytics, More.
Steve Balestrieri’s Sunday Patriots News: Offseason deep dive, player spotlights, Romeo Doubs the X-Factor? Plus, comments on the CBS Sports piece that list the Pats having the 3rd-worst offseason; More.
Ethan Hurwitz identifies some burning questions ahead of training camp that the Patriots must answer. 1. What’s up with Gabe Jacas?
Khari Thompson‘s Patriots 2026 position preview: Wide receivers edition.
5 months ago
Patriots Called Best Fit For Former No. 1 Overall Pick Who Is Still A Free Agent originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots made moves in the offseason to address their pass rush, but they could still use some more help.
The Patriots signed Dre'Mont Jones and drafted Gabe Jacas in the second round. Mike Vrabel has noted that he likes the group of edge rushers the team has, but Jacas has yet to sign his contract and underwent a small knee procedure this offseason. Adding another pass rusher would not be the worst idea, and there are still a few cheap options available in free agency.
Joey Bosa and Jadeveon Clowney are both still available. Both were very high draft picks and may be a bit past their prime. However, they can still get after the quarterback, and Bleacher Report's Alex Kay called the Patriots the best fit for Clowney.
"Clowney tallied at least 5.5 sacks in four of the last five years, including in 2025 when he contributed 8.5 sacks in just 13 games with the Dallas Cowboys," wrote Kay on Wednesday. "He's proven he can set an edge, disrupt in the backfield and play run defense at a high level regardless of the system, making him one of the best possible defensive free-agent pickups at this point of the offseason. The New England Patriots are a fantastic fit for Clowney. The team needs to bolster the edge after coming up just short of a Super Bowl last season, adding some firepower to combat the top-tier opposing signal-callers the squad is set to come up against during the 2026 campaign."
The New England Patriots made moves in the offseason to address their pass rush, but they could still use some more help.
The Patriots signed Dre'Mont Jones and drafted Gabe Jacas in the second round. Mike Vrabel has noted that he likes the group of edge rushers the team has, but Jacas has yet to sign his contract and underwent a small knee procedure this offseason. Adding another pass rusher would not be the worst idea, and there are still a few cheap options available in free agency.
Joey Bosa and Jadeveon Clowney are both still available. Both were very high draft picks and may be a bit past their prime. However, they can still get after the quarterback, and Bleacher Report's Alex Kay called the Patriots the best fit for Clowney.
"Clowney tallied at least 5.5 sacks in four of the last five years, including in 2025 when he contributed 8.5 sacks in just 13 games with the Dallas Cowboys," wrote Kay on Wednesday. "He's proven he can set an edge, disrupt in the backfield and play run defense at a high level regardless of the system, making him one of the best possible defensive free-agent pickups at this point of the offseason. The New England Patriots are a fantastic fit for Clowney. The team needs to bolster the edge after coming up just short of a Super Bowl last season, adding some firepower to combat the top-tier opposing signal-callers the squad is set to come up against during the 2026 campaign."
5 months ago
Patriots Predicted To Make League-Altering Trade For Five-Time Pro Bowler originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots had just 35 sacks last season, and their pass rush could still use a boost.
The Patriots lost K'Lavon Chaisson in free agency, but replaced him with Dre'Mont Jones. They also drafted Gabe Jacas in the second round of the NFL Draft. On top of that, they should be getting a healthy Harold Landry back. Regardless, their pass rush ranked near the bottom of the NFL last season, and they could still use more help.
The Patriots are likely going to give their additions a chance to make an impact, but if they are still struggling to get to the quarterback by the trade deadline, a move could be in the cards. Bleacher Report's Moe Moton predicted the Patriots would trade for Las Vegas Raiders superstar Maxx Crosby at the trade deadline.
"The Raiders will go through rough patches as they grow together, but Crosby, who turns 29 in August, may not have many optimal years left," wrote Moton on Thursday. "General manager John Spytek may decide it's best to trade the star edge-rusher for a first-round pick and more while he's still playing at a Pro Bowl level on a team that may be a year or two away from playoff contention. The New England Patriots may seek help for their pass rush in the second half of the upcoming campaign."
The New England Patriots had just 35 sacks last season, and their pass rush could still use a boost.
The Patriots lost K'Lavon Chaisson in free agency, but replaced him with Dre'Mont Jones. They also drafted Gabe Jacas in the second round of the NFL Draft. On top of that, they should be getting a healthy Harold Landry back. Regardless, their pass rush ranked near the bottom of the NFL last season, and they could still use more help.
The Patriots are likely going to give their additions a chance to make an impact, but if they are still struggling to get to the quarterback by the trade deadline, a move could be in the cards. Bleacher Report's Moe Moton predicted the Patriots would trade for Las Vegas Raiders superstar Maxx Crosby at the trade deadline.
"The Raiders will go through rough patches as they grow together, but Crosby, who turns 29 in August, may not have many optimal years left," wrote Moton on Thursday. "General manager John Spytek may decide it's best to trade the star edge-rusher for a first-round pick and more while he's still playing at a Pro Bowl level on a team that may be a year or two away from playoff contention. The New England Patriots may seek help for their pass rush in the second half of the upcoming campaign."
5 months ago
The New England Patriots may need another edge rusher this offseason.
Patriots rookie linebacker Gabe Jacas is dealing with an injury to his knee, which he had a procedure on this spring, and is the only second-round pick from this year’s draft class that has yet to sign with their respective team. Though New England is in good hands with Harold Landry and Dre’Mont Jones on the edge, a third star added to the rotation stands to benefit the team greatly in 2026.
According to Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay, the Patriots are the perfect landing spot for star free agent edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney.
“The New England Patriots are a fantastic fit for Clowney,” Kay said. “The team needs to bolster the edge after coming up just short of a Super Bowl last season, adding some firepower to combat the top-tier opposing signal-callers the squad is set to come up against during the 2026 campaign.”
Clowney played at a high level last season in his 12th year in the league. The South Carolina native recorded 8.5 sacks across only 13 games played, six of which he started for the Dallas Cowboys in 2025. He was a disruptor in the pass rush and showed that he’s still a high-end edge rusher in the league.
Patriots rookie linebacker Gabe Jacas is dealing with an injury to his knee, which he had a procedure on this spring, and is the only second-round pick from this year’s draft class that has yet to sign with their respective team. Though New England is in good hands with Harold Landry and Dre’Mont Jones on the edge, a third star added to the rotation stands to benefit the team greatly in 2026.
According to Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay, the Patriots are the perfect landing spot for star free agent edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney.
“The New England Patriots are a fantastic fit for Clowney,” Kay said. “The team needs to bolster the edge after coming up just short of a Super Bowl last season, adding some firepower to combat the top-tier opposing signal-callers the squad is set to come up against during the 2026 campaign.”
Clowney played at a high level last season in his 12th year in the league. The South Carolina native recorded 8.5 sacks across only 13 games played, six of which he started for the Dallas Cowboys in 2025. He was a disruptor in the pass rush and showed that he’s still a high-end edge rusher in the league.
5 months ago
The New England Patriots signed offensive tackle Caleb Lomu to his rookie contract on Monday. That officially leaves second-round pick edge rusher Gabe Jacas as the only Patriots 2026 rookie who remains unsigned.
Jacas missed voluntary OTAs with the team, and there have been questions on if he will be ready to return for mandatory minicamp. ESPN's Mike Reiss wondered if the former Illinois standout has been sidelined with an injury this offseason.
In that case, the Patriots might be saving him for training camp.
But that news would bring about some serious concerns for New England, given the lack of depth at edge rusher. Harold Landry III and Dre'Mont Jones are the top options, with Bradyn Swinson, Elijah Ponder and Jesse Luketa as the depth options.
If Jacas' health checks out, he's a player who has the potential to play significant snaps for the Patriots in 2026.
Jacas missed voluntary OTAs with the team, and there have been questions on if he will be ready to return for mandatory minicamp. ESPN's Mike Reiss wondered if the former Illinois standout has been sidelined with an injury this offseason.
In that case, the Patriots might be saving him for training camp.
But that news would bring about some serious concerns for New England, given the lack of depth at edge rusher. Harold Landry III and Dre'Mont Jones are the top options, with Bradyn Swinson, Elijah Ponder and Jesse Luketa as the depth options.
If Jacas' health checks out, he's a player who has the potential to play significant snaps for the Patriots in 2026.
5 months ago
Two of the New England Patriots’ top edge rushers, rookie Gabe Jacas and veteran Harold Landry, are question marks with mandatory minicamp set to take place Tuesday through Thursday. In the two OTA practices open to the media on June 2 and May 27, neither was among the participants.
This comes after the Patriots opted to improve at that position group this offseason, signing veteran Dre’Mont Jones in free agency and selecting Jacas in the second round of the NFL Draft.
New England ranked in the top 10 in the league in pressure rate in 2025, but its top sack producers, Landry and K’Lavon Chaisson, only combined for 16 sacks, and a team total of 35 — tying for 22nd in the league. Evidently, the team felt it could upgrade and let Chaisson walk in free agency.
On May 29, appearing on NFL Live, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler listed the Patriots as a potential “sleeper” trade candidate for the New York Giants’ former fifth overall selection in 2022, Kayvon Thibodeaux. New England may also have some ammunition in return, with wide receiver Kayshon Boutte showing apparent interest in a trade out of Foxboro.
With uncertainty currently looming over a group that needed more production, another addition makes sense.
This comes after the Patriots opted to improve at that position group this offseason, signing veteran Dre’Mont Jones in free agency and selecting Jacas in the second round of the NFL Draft.
New England ranked in the top 10 in the league in pressure rate in 2025, but its top sack producers, Landry and K’Lavon Chaisson, only combined for 16 sacks, and a team total of 35 — tying for 22nd in the league. Evidently, the team felt it could upgrade and let Chaisson walk in free agency.
On May 29, appearing on NFL Live, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler listed the Patriots as a potential “sleeper” trade candidate for the New York Giants’ former fifth overall selection in 2022, Kayvon Thibodeaux. New England may also have some ammunition in return, with wide receiver Kayshon Boutte showing apparent interest in a trade out of Foxboro.
With uncertainty currently looming over a group that needed more production, another addition makes sense.
