Since the Patriots traded for A.J. Brown less than two weeks ago, there hasn't been much said about other players they might inquire about to fill some of their remaining roster weaknesses. Among them are tight end, after Julian Hill suffered a season-ending injury, and on the defensive line, specifically edge rushers.
There are a few tight ends on the radar who could be the team's next trade targets, and the same can be said about a pass rusher. However, the perfect player for what they need just became a free agent and could be exactly what the Patriots need on the field and at the right price.
Three-time Pro Bowler, Za'Darius Smith, was released from the Eagles' reserve/retired list this week, meaning he is officially a free agent and can continue his career if he chooses to.
He played just five games last season with Philadelphia before unexpectedly announcing his retirement, but that might change ahead of the 2026 season, especially if the Patriots are a team that inquires. Smith's connection to their staff makes it easy to believe he might be more than willing to head to New England sooner rather than later.
Za'Darius Smith makes a lot of sense for what the Patriots' defense currently lacks
With Harold Landry III missing from minicamp, who is the expected top pass rusher on the Patriots' defense this upcoming season, and rookie Gabe Jacas still not under contract, the team is seriously lacking a legitimate threat to go after opposing quarterbacks.
Even when Landry and Jacas return to the field, there is still an argument to be made that a more consistent performer is missing from the lineup, even with Dre'Mont Jones set to suit up for the Patriots for the first time.
That's where a veteran like Smith comes into play and would make a lot of sense for Eliot Wolf to pursue, and fortunately, some factors might make it a lot easier to get a deal done.
Current outside linebackers coach Mike Smith was with the Packers and Vikings when the playmaker spent time with both teams. He was also with the Browns in 2024, when Mike Vrabel was a coaching and personnel assistant, deepening his connection to the team.
Considering the defense's needs at this point, there's no reason not to get on the phone to see what Smith is looking for. It's fair to assume he wants to play for a contender, and the Patriots are considered that now, so they shouldn't be ruled out.
He would presumably be comfortable with the coaches he'd be working with, and they can afford to pay him a contract he deserves. It all points to a layup free agency signing that favors both parties, so why not do it?
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