Hours after losing Jonathan Jones in free agency to the Washington Commanders, another Patriots Super Bowl champion followed suit.
According to a source, Deatrich Wise agreed to a one-year deal worth up to $5 million. The defensive end spent his first eight NFL seasons in New England after being drafted in the fourth round in 2017.
Wise was an instant contributor in Bill Belichick’s defense. He leaves New England amassing 34 sacks and 90 quarterback hits. Wise had a career-high 7.5 sacks in 2022.
Last year, along with Keion White, Wise led the Patriots with five sacks to go with eight quarterback hits, and three pass breakups. The veteran was also a captain last season for the third-straight year.
Wise’s departure comes as new coach Mike Vrabel brings a new defensive to New England, which will be led by defensive coordinator Terrell Williams.
“When you look at statistically what wins in the National Football League, our ability to affect the other team’s quarterback and our ability to provide for an efficient quarterback and passing game is a high contributor to success,” Vrabel said in his introductory press conference.
The Patriots have already added three projected starters to their defense, signing edge rusher Harold Landry, defensive tackle Milton Williams, and linebacker Robert Spillane. The team also signed defensive tackle Kyiris Tonga.
With Wise departing, the Patriots could look to add another defensive end in free agency or later this spring in the draft.
In 15 games for the Patriots last season, Wise amassed 29 tackles and five sacks.
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