The Washington Commanders are reportedly signing K'Lavon Chaisson, a key member of the New England Patriots last season.
According to Ian Rapoport, the Commanders are signing Chaisson to a one-year, $12 million deal. He signed a one-year, $3 million deal last season, so he gets a significant raise after a career year. The Patriots' pass rush had just 35 sacks last season, and just lost one of its better players, so what's next for the Patriots?
As far as replacing Chaisson goes, the Patriots have already done that. They reportedly signed Dre'Mont Jones to a three-year, $36.5 million deal. He had seven sacks last season, while Chaisson had 7.5. They had similar seasons, but now the Patriots need to improve from where they were last season.
Replacing Chaisson with Jones essentially leaves the Patriots in the same spot as last year. Now, the focus should be on adding to their pass rush group to get better results than last season. A healthy Harold Landry will help, but the Patriots' best opportunity to add to the group is now the NFL Draft.
The premier pass rushers in free agency are off the board, and Maxx Crosby's situation is a giant question mark. This draft class is deep in the pass rush department, and a young pass rusher could make a huge difference.
If the Patriots really want an experienced player, they will seemingly have to make some kind of trade. Crosby would be ideal, but he will cost a lot, and his health seems to be a question mark. They could inquire about a player like Kayvon Thibodeaux. He is overshadowed by Abdul Carter and Brian Burnes, and is one year away from free agency.
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