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Training camp is right around the corner, and there are more concerns for the New England Patriots' edge rushing unit than there were at the start of the offseason.
When it comes to solving their issues on the edge, the Patriots are moonwalking backwards quicker than the late, great Michael Jackson.
Veteran Harold Landry III, who led the Patriots with 8.5 sacks last season, is reportedly expected to open the season on the physically unable to perform list. And Gabe Jacas, the second-round draft pick expected to throw on the red cape and help the team right out of the gate, missed all of the spring practices and has still yet to sign his rookie contract.
Expecting a miracle would be hoping that Landry can somehow stay consistently healthy for an entire season at 30 years old. It would also be hoping that the team signs Jacas, and the former Illinois standout's talent is so great that it supersedes the need for the spring work on the football field and in the classroom.
If those ideas feel too far-fetched, here are four emergency options for the Patriots to address their edge rusher concerns:
Sign Jadeveon Clowney
Jadeveon Clowney appears to be waiting for the right opportunity as one of the best remaining pass rushers on the free agent market. At age 33, he has shown that he is still capable of being a disruptive force at an elite level. Last season, he posted 8.5 sacks, one forced fumble, two fumble recoveries and four passes defended in a one-and-done season with the Dallas Cowboys. He could be a huge lift for the Patriots' edge rush by helping take some of the pressure off Landry.
Trade for Kayvon Thibodeaux
A more long-term option would be the Patriots trading for New York Giants' former first-round draft pick Kayvon Thibodeaux. The former Oregon standout peaked with 11.5 sacks in 2023, but since that season, his numbers have dwindled while he has been forced to fight through multiple injuries. Perhaps a change of scenery would help Thibodeaux find more consistency in his game.
Sign Kyle Van Noy
Kyle Van Noy returning to New England would ultimately be a feel-good move for the franchise, considering he won two Super Bowls with the team. Even at 35 years old, Van Noy has some juice left to help a team. It was only in 2024 that he registered a career-high 12.5 sacks with the Baltimore Ravens.
Sign Derek Barnett
Derek Barnett was a strong No. 3 pass-rushing option for the Houston Texans behind Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter. He could potentially have a more featured role for the Patriots. He has registered five sacks in each of the last two seasons, despite limited reps playing behind two All-Pro defenders.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: 4 emergency options for Patriots to address edge rusher concerns
