Patriots Encouraged to Sign 3-Time Pro Bowl Pass Rusher

The New England Patriots struggled to attack the quarterback last season. They finished the year ranked tied for 22nd in sacks (35), tied for 15th in quarterback knockdowns (51), tied for 29th in hurries (34) and ranked 27th in pressures (120).

However, it's not something the team has addressed too much during the offseason. Some of their biggest additions include second-round pick Gabe Jacas and free agent signing Dre'Mont Jones (three years, $36.5 million).

However, it's still an area that could use some improvement. Bleacher Report's Alex Kay writes that the Patriots are the best fit for free agent pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney.

"The New England Patriots are a fantastic fit for Clowney," Kay wrote. "The team needs to bolster the edge after coming up just short of a Super Bowl last season, adding some firepower to combat the top-tier opposing signal-callers the squad is set to come up against during the 2026 campaign."

The three-time Pro Bowler has played for seven different teams since being taken with the No. 1 pick by the Houston Texans in the 2014 NFL Draft. Despite bouncing around, he has proven to be a valuable asset.

Last season for the Dallas Cowboys, Clowney appeared in 13 games and made six starts. He accumulated 41 tackles, 8.5 sacks, 12 tackles for loss, 10 quarterback hits, 22 pressures and four pass deflections. He earned a Pro Football Focus overall grade of 79.2, which ranked 18th among edge defenders.

At 33 years old, the Patriots wouldn't need to sign the veteran to a long-term deal. Spotrac projects Clowney's market value will earn him a one-year, $5.7 million deal. With the pass rush being a clear weakness last year, Clowney could be a cheap and low-risk deal for New England.

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This story was originally published June 17, 2026 at 12:32 PM.