The [New England Patriots](https://nesn.com/new-england-patriots) are exploring another potential solution to their unexpected uncertainty at punter. New England worked out veteran Jamie Gillan on Thursday, according to the NFL transaction wire, as first noted by Pats Pulpit. The visit came before the Patriots closed their preseason schedule against the Cleveland Browns, the team Gillan began his NFL career with in 2019.
Gillan’s workout was notable because Bryce Baringer suffered an injury during New England’s second preseason game. The Patriots already signed veteran Matt Haack to provide immediate depth, but their interest in Gillan showed they were continuing to examine the available options. Baringer’s absence created an unusual scene against the Philadelphia Eagles. Rookie quarterback Behren Morton was forced to handle a punt after Baringer left the game.
New England understandably did not want to repeat that situation.
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Patriots Take Look At ‘Scottish Hammer’
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Gillan, nicknamed “The Scottish Hammer,” has appeared in 107 NFL games across six seasons.
The 29-year-old signed with Cleveland as an undrafted free agent out of Arkansas-Pine Bluff in 2019. He earned AFC Special Teams Player of the Week, AFC Special Teams Player of the Month and PFWA All-Rookie honors during his first season. Gillan spent three years with the Browns before briefly joining the Buffalo Bills’ practice squad. He then served as the New York Giants’ punter from 2022 through the 2025 season before being released in March.
The Scotland native has averaged 45.2 yards per punt and 40.3 net yards per punt during his career. His longest attempt traveled 74 yards, and 162 of his 436 punts have been downed inside the opponent’s 20-yard line. Gillan also is a left-footed punter, which could provide New England with a different option if Baringer is not ready for the beginning of the regular season.
Haack remains the more immediate answer. The well-traveled veteran has played for the Miami Dolphins, Bills, Indianapolis Colts, Browns and Giants. His experience as both a punter and holder made him a sensible late-preseason addition. Working out Gillan does not guarantee the Patriots will sign him. NFL teams routinely evaluate free agents to update their emergency lists, particularly around the roster reduction deadline.
The visit nevertheless confirmed that New England was not leaving anything to chance.
The Patriots entered the summer expecting Baringer to handle their punting duties. His injury forced them to adjust quickly, and Gillan now represents another experienced option if the uncertainty continues into the regular season.
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