Amid the Patriots' unbelievable success in the 2025 season, it was clear their highly ranked defense was severely lacking in one area: the pass rush, which immediately became one of the most important groups to upgrade this offseason.
Knowing that they were about to be given a first-place schedule for the 2026 season, adding a difference-making pass rusher who can get to opposing quarterbacks with ease was at the top of the list of priorities in the minds of New England fans everywhere.
So when the team brought in only Dre'Mont Jones after not re-signing K'Lavon Chaisson, it was a bit disappointing. That feeling worsened once it was clear that second-round rookie Gabe Jacas missed most of the offseason until he finally signed his contract and joined the team just a few weeks ago.
Although Jones and Jacas have both had impressive stretches of practice, fans still have far too many questions to feel entirely comfortable with the defensive roster, prompting many to suggest the Patriots sign one of the top remaining free agents, most notably Von Miller or Kyle Van Noy.
They were still options until this past weekend, when it was announced that Miller signed a contract with the Cowboys for the upcoming season, stripping the Patriots of a chance to sign a proven veteran who may have slowed down in recent years, but could've been a solid mentor for their mostly young defensive line.
The Patriots might be forced into signing a familiar defensive veteran ahead of Week 1
Now that Miller is off the table, there's a good chance the Patriots will turn their attention to another free agent instead, who has had a strong showing after his second tenure with the team.
Van Noy is the most prominent name that immediately sparks intrigue among fans, as the 35-year-old is coming off three years with the Ravens and recorded 12.5 sacks just two seasons ago. Last year was far from his best, but he wasn't used on the field as much as in previous seasons, so that might be the biggest contributor to his apparent downfall.
Given that he is familiar with the Patriots, he shoots up the list of potential signings far more than anyone else. There are plenty of reasons to be concerned, but at this point, they don't have many options left.
Joey Bosa is another unsigned star, and at one point, he might have been someone to approach with urgency. However, the lack of interest from teams across the league and his apparent disinterest in continuing his career are major red flags and should deter the Patriots from even inquiring.
That leaves them with just one other option, and it doesn't seem like something they are willing to explore at this point, and that's a blockbuster trade.
Earlier this offseason, they were heavily linked to a trade for Maxx Crosby, whom the Raiders eventually agreed to send to the Ravens, but the deal fell through after his medicals didn't meet their expectations.
He's still considered a trade candidate ahead of this year's deadline, and if the Patriots want to make a big splash and add a player who would likely make the biggest positive impact on their defense, then Crosby is the guy to go for.
Otherwise, they'll have to wait until next year's free agency to see who they could make a move for, and at this rate, especially after hearing Mike Vrabel's confidence in their current pass rush roster, that's looking like the direction they'll go in.
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