All signs point to the [New England Patriots](https://nesn.com/new-england-patriots) being one of the few teams in the league with both the cap space and the inclination to go into the free-agent pool to recruit a true finisher at defensive end.
We have seen teams like the Buffalo Bills add players like future Hall of Famer Von Miller to bolster a team with Super Bowl aspirations in the past. Fresh off a Super Bowl run of their own, the Patriots are expected to follow suit and add a proven sack getter before the 2026 season.
One name that several analysts have raised since free agency frenzy began is former No. 1 overall draft pick Jadeveon Clowney.
Clowney is working his way up the NFL all-time sack leader list since being drafted in 2014. He finds himself without a home next season and searching for what could become his eighth different team.
CBS Sports analyst thinks he is the best free agent fit remaining for New England.
“If the Patriots really want to add some pass-rushing firepower, though, they could find many options,” Zachary Pereles wrote. “Clowney continues to play both the run and the pass at a high level; (Ahkeem) Mesidor, meanwhile, starred at Miami and, soon to be 25, projects as an immediate contributor for this win-now team.”
Clowney surpassed the $100 million career earnings threshold last season as a member of the Dallas Cowboys. But despite turning 33 years old this winter, the veteran posted an 8.5 sack season in 2025.
Clowney seems to have a lot of gas in the tank and could be a budget-friendly addition to an already well-built roster.
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