Patriots: 3 defensive free agents NE should sign over Kyle Van Noy

2. Yannick Ngakoue

If the Patriots really wanted to make a statement this offseason, they would look to sign edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue, who’s been one of the most overlooked defensive stars since he entered the league as a third-round pick back in 2016.

Since then, he’s managed to produce 145 tackles, 45.5 sacks (9.1 per season), 96 QB hits, 104 pressures, 18 forced fumbles, 10 passes defended, three fumble recoveries, two interceptions and two defensive touchdowns, which is generally unheard of for a defensive lineman.

Yannick Ngakoue would change the entire complexion of the Patriots’ defense.

It’s worth noting that Ngakoue’s production took a step back this past season, but that can largely be attributed to him spending time on two different teams — three if you include him being with Jacksonville right up until the start of the regular season. We like to think he’ll get back to being dominant once he settles with one team and has the security of a long-term contract.

The Patriots’ defense has been crying out for a dynamic playmaker off the edge, and Ngakoue would come close to solving all their issues in that regard. There were concerns about his attitude during his final months with the Jaguars, which provided quite a bit of controversy as he tried to force his way out, but those were promptly nipped in the bud following his trades to both Minnesota and Baltimore.

Ngakoue will be one of the most sought-after defensive ends in free agency, so the Patriots will no doubt have to offer him a lucrative deal to have any chance at landing him. That normally isn’t the way they conduct business, but given how desperate their defense is for an elite pass rusher, they really have no excuse not to splurge on the 25-year-old stud.