The New England Patriots had just 35 sacks in the regular season, and could spend big on pass rushers this offseason.
Patriots insider Andrew Callahan has already reported that the Patriots could be looking to spend on pass rushers this free agency, and Sports Illustrated's Gilberto Manzano tabbed the Patriots among the top two landing spots for Trey Hendrickson of the Cincinnati Bengals. Hendrickson was Sports Illustrated's top-ranked free agent, and the Indianapolis Colts were tabbed as the other landing spot.
"It will be interesting to see whether teams will look to heavily invest in a talented edge rusher on the wrong side of 30," wrote Manzano. "Also, Hendrickson, 31, only played in seven games in his ninth season due to injuries. But the numbers don’t lie. He’s still a dominant force when healthy. Hendrickson, who has 39 sacks combined over the past three seasons, could see a short-term deal from a Super Bowl contender that averages more than $35 million per season. Maybe something similar to what the Texans have done with 31-year-old Danielle Hunter, who’s on his second short-term deal with the team."
Hendrickson suffered a season-ending injury last season and did not have a great showing before hitting the open market. He has been in a contract dispute with the Bengals for a couple of years and will likely be looking to finally get paid this offseason.
He led the league in sacks in 2024 and was a First-Team All-Pro. He is one of the best pass rushers in the league when healthy, but given his age and recent injury, there's no telling if he can be that same player again.
He has 81 career sacks in nine seasons, and would likely be the Patriots' best pass rusher immediately. The only question is whether the Patriots are willing to pay him like a superstar at this age.
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