For most of free agency so far, the Patriots haven't made much of a splash with the players they have signed or let go, although they have brought in some notable talent who will assuredly improve some of their weakest groups. It's a big reason many fans are holding out hope for a blockbuster trade, and there's still a chance it could happen.
Among all the unexciting signings was the arrival of long snapper Niko Lalos, who entered the 2020 NFL Draft as a defensive end. He signed with the Giants and remained in New York until he was waived in 2022, and has since bounced around between the Saints and the XFL until signing with the Patriots.
Lalos hasn't played in the NFL since the 2024 season, which is certainly concerning, and he has transitioned from defensive end to long snapper, which is quite a drastic change in position.
But that makes him a sneaky good signing for the Patriots, who could use him in every phase of the game, given his experience and his size. That's a big reason to be far more interested in what he can do than how anyone would typically react to the signing of a long snapper.
Under-the-radar signing might be one of the sneakiest good moves by the Patriots this offseason
Throughout the dynasty years, the Patriots were known for taking risks on players at certain positions, successfully moving them to other positions, and getting the best production out of them. The best example of that is Julian Edelman, who was drafted in the seventh round as a quarterback, only to go on to have a successful NFL career as a wide receiver.
There's a chance the Patriots could do the same with Lalos, especially since they have a big need for upgrades on their defensive line. He could certainly play a role on special teams, maybe serve as a backup long snapper for Julian Ashby, but it feels like using him elsewhere would be more worth everyone's time.
He hasn't been given many opportunities to do much of anything in the NFL, as he has only logged six tackles, one fumble recovery, and one interception in his career thus far. But that's not entirely unexpected for a player who goes undrafted.
The Patriots will likely give him way more chances to shine during their spring practices and once training camp begins, just as they did with plenty of other undrafted players last season, and he could earn a spot on the roster quickly if he impresses beyond expectations.
Lalos could become a secret weapon of sorts if he accomplishes that, since he has experience in multiple areas and could even be used on offense as a tight end or fullback due to his size.
He's an incredibly intriguing prospect that not many people are talking about, and while that's understandable, Lalos could become a player to pay close attention to over the next few months.