The New England Patriots have kicked off the new era under Mike Vrabel in style. They have wasted no time finding a game-changer on defense.
According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the Patriots are signing edge-rusher Harold Landry to a three-year deal worth $43.5 million, with $26 million fully guaranteed.
It's the perfect match. Landry played at Boston College and has history in Vrabel's defense from their time together in Tennessee.
It's hard not to love the signing. The Patriots needed pass-rush help, and with by far the most cap space in the NFL, they landed their top target before free agency even began. Per ESPN, New England ranked 23rd in pass-rush win rate last season.
The Patriots' offseason work is only just beginning, but signing Landry is the perfect start.
Harold Landry signing gives Mike Vrabel's Patriots the pass-rush upgrade they needed
Many viewed Landry as a possible trade target for the Patriots, but the Titans made it far easier by releasing him. Instead, New England addresses the pass rush without having to give up draft capital.
While Landry struggled for consistency in his final season with the Titans, he still contributed with nine sacks and 15 quarterback hits. Since missing the entire 2022 season due to a torn ACL, Landry has put up a combined 19.5 sacks and 36 quarterback hits over the past two years.
A former Pro Bowler, Landry can immediately start in Vrabel's defense and help boost a pass rush that needs all the help it can get. New England's 28 sacks ranked last in the NFL last term.
The work is far from over.
New England will need to add more reinforcements on defense in the days and weeks ahead, while surrounding Drake Maye with more talent remains a priority.
But the Patriots have made the perfect start by adding a proven, veteran player at a premium position. And free agency hasn't even started yet.