Patriots reportedly re-signing another linebacker
The New England Patriots are making another move to shore up their internal depth at linebacker.
As first reported by the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Patriots are re-signing outside linebacker Anfernee Jennings. Rapoport later added that it’s a three-year deal with a base value of $12 million and a maximum of $24 million.
MORE: Josh Uche chooses Patriots despite better offers
Jennings, 26, has long been the “next man up” behind Pats cornerstone linebacker Matthew Judon at outside linebacker. In 2023, he had to actually step up and into the regular lineup. Jennings started 14 games and played a career-high 67% of defensive snaps, logging 66 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, four QB hits, and one fumble recovery.
ARLINGTON, TEXAS – OCTOBER 1: Matthew Judon #9 of the New England Patriots holds his arm while walking off the field while consoled by Anfernee Jennings #33 of the New England Patriots during a game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
Originally a third-round pick of the Patriots in the 2020 draft out of Alabama, Jennings struggled to get regular playing time as part of a deep Patriots linebacking corps prior to 2023. But once he finally got his opportunity for regular snaps, he proved to be a solid, well-rounded player who brings plenty of energy and physicality to the defense.
The Patriots are also re-signing outside linebacker Josh Uche, who reportedly turned down multiple more lucrative offers to stay in New England. From the outside, they’re bringing in former Browns linebacker Sione Takitaki.
Director of Scouting Eliot Wolf and the Patriots’ reshaped front office have prioritized retaining core players at the start of free agency. They’ve also agreed to new contracts with tackle Michael Onwenu, wide receiver Kendrick Bourne, and tight end Hunter Henry, and applied the transition tag to safety Kyle Dugger.
FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – JANUARY 07: Anfernee Jennings #33 of the New England Patriots celebrates in the second half during a game against the New York Jets at Gillette Stadium on January 07, 2024 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Billie Weiss/Getty Images)
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Matt Dolloff is a writer and podcaster for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Check out all of Matt’s content.
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Patriots, J.C. Jackson have mutual interest
The Patriots have a sneaky need at outside corner behind Christian Gonzalez. It appears that they could make that happen with a familiar face.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, there’s mutual interest between the Patriots and J.C. Jackson for a new deal, despite the cornerback’s March 1 release. Fowler believes this “could be a down-the-line development” for the two sides.
So, Jackson may not be generating much interest around the league, making a return to New England an attractive option for him. That’s especially considering he could still be the Pats’ clear No. 2 outside corner on the current roster. Pats fans could be left waiting until the spring or summer for the team to find another starting corner.
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – NOVEMBER 26: J.C. Jackson #29 of the New England Patriots reacts after a play during the first half against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on November 26, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
