The Patriots defense was expected to repeat their production from the 2023 season, which saw them within the top-5 defenses in the league in many categories. Because most of the players from last year's team were still on the roster, the coaching change wasn't projected to make too much of an impact on their production.
But through ten games this season, the group has been far from what it was just one year ago and has had more than its fair share of struggles during that time. From losing multiple starters to health issues or injuries (Christian Barmore and Ja'Whaun Bentley) to underwhelming performances that forced the new regime to trade them away (Matthew Judon and Joshua Uche), it hasn't been a smooth ride for the defense in 2024.
That's why it was unsurprising to hear that the Patriots claimed recently released defensive end Yannick Ngakoue off waivers after the Ravens decided to part with him last week.
Although his performance is far from what it used to be, he will surely be a great addition to the defensive line, which doesn't appear to be the only reason the Patriots brought him in.
Yannick Ngakoue will bring more to the Patriots' defense than just his on-field production
With the new regime wanting to build a roster through the draft and younger free agents, adding a player like Ngakoue seems to go against that vision. However, his veteran experience and Pro Bowl past bring more value to the rebuilding team than just what he can do on the field, which is exactly why Jerod Mayo and Co. were interested in him.
On top of that, Ngakoue is ready to take on that role and is not deterred by the change from a winning team (the Ravens are 7-3) to a team with no hope of making the playoffs.
He's been in this situation before and realizes there's more to contribute and to look forward to, which he intends to do through his experience and leadership with his new team.
Yannick Ngakoue shares his initial thoughts on joining the Patriots.
— Dakota Randall (@DakRandall) November 13, 2024
Said "it's all about perspective" when asked about going from the Ravens to a team at the bottom of the standings. pic.twitter.com/0lmM6b4lfQ
Considering the rumored tension behind the scenes earlier in the season, Ngakoue's coming into the locker room with this type of attitude is already a positive sign for what's to come. Not to mention, he will be an invaluable mentor to players like Keion White, who are hoping to be big names in the league and become the Patriots' leading pass rusher.
Ngakoue emphasized his desire to build that kind of culture in New England and stressed the importance of having the "right energy" in the locker room.
“Just be a leader. Help build the culture. Help provide on all three downs and just play fast and physical.
Just leadership. Energy. That’s all I really want to bring, because energy is contagious. If we can all have the right energy, then we can win some more football games.”
Could he have said anything better?
Truly, this is the kind of guy the Patriots need in their locker room right now, especially as it seems things have finally begun to click between the players and the coaching staff. After what appeared to be a disconnect, it now looks like they're all on the same page again and enjoying the ride, so Ngakoue's mindset will be a welcomed addition moving forward.