The Patriots continue to retain their 2022 linebacker room. They signed Jahlani Tavai to an extension late in the season, then brought back Raekwon McMillan just before free agency started. On Thursday it was Mack Wilson’s turn to return to New England.

According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Patriots are re-signing Mack to a one-year deal. The contract is worth up to $2.2 million. Wilson also reportedly received interest from the Texans and Browns.

The Patriots acquired Wilson from the Browns at this time last year, trading away Chase Winovich in a one-for-one swap. Wilson played 21 percent of the team’s defensive snaps last year – although none over the last five weeks – and 62 percent of the special teams snaps. He finished the season with 36 tackles, 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and a pass breakup.

For the past few years, the Patriots have seemingly been searching for an athletic off-ball middle linebacker to play with Ja’Whaun Bentley. Wilson figured to be a contender for that role last year along with McMillan and Cameron McGrone, but as mentioned above his playing time dropped off late in the season. It will be interesting to see if the team can find a way to maximize his explosiveness this year, now that he has a year in the Patriots’ defensive system under his belt.

In bringing Wilson back, the Patriots have now re-signed seven of their own pending free agents with Wilson joining McMillan, Jabrill Peppers, Carl Davis, Jonathan Jones, James Ferentz, Conor McDermott, and Matthew Slater. Restricted free agents Myles Bryant and Yodny Cajuste were also tendered. Nelson Agholor, Joe Cardona, Cody Davis, Damien Harris, Joejuan Williams, and Isaiah Wynn remain unsigned. For complete updates on Patriots free agency, be sure to follow our Patriots Free Agency Tracker.

Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at [email protected].