The New England Patriots wasted no time before making a splash in free agency, reportedly agreeing to contract terms with edge rusher Dre'Mont Jones just minutes after the legal tampering window opened on Monday.
Per insider Jordan Schultz, the Patriots agreed to a three-year deal worth $39 million with the edge rusher. The aggressive move signals a commitment to improving a pass rush that was lacking for most of the 2025 season.
Now, defensive coordinator Zak Kuhr has the edge rusher he's been waiting for, pushing his unit to the next level for 2026 and beyond.
Patriots unlock pass rush with reported Dre'Mont Jones deal
At first glance, $39 million may seem like an overpay for an edge rusher with 11 sacks over the last two seasons. But Jones' ability to affect the passer on late downs will be worth every penny for the Patriots.
The 29-year-old was traded from the Tennessee Titans to the Baltimore Ravens last season in exchange for a fourth-round pick. As soon as he arrived, he shifted the entire Ravens defense. While the sack numbers themselves aren't eye-popping, Jones produced 11 quarterback hits and 18 pressures in his limited time with the team. He was constantly in opponents' backfields.
While his ability to get after the passer is certainly his calling card, the veteran edge rusher is formidable against the run, too. His 280-pound frame allows him to stay on the field on all three downs.
The Patriots desperately needed some juice in their pass rush. Harold Landry III led the team with just 8.5 sacks in 2025. Behind him and K'Lavon Chaisson, the team had no edge rushers who could threaten opposing QBs. Jones changes the unit completely.
Now, Kuhr has multiple pass rushers to work with. He can rotate between the three edge defenders, keeping each player fresh. On third downs, Jones will be unleashed to track down passers. This may not be the Trey Hendrickson deal that fans were hoping to see, but it could be a huge signing for the Patriots. With a contract of this magnitude, New England clearly values Jones as a top pass rusher.
Jones fills the most glaring remaining hole on the Patriots' defense. With a solid pass rush and a healthy back seven, this could be a truly dominant defense. Now, they can shift their focus to supporting Drake Maye with key offensive additions through free agency and the draft.