Here’s the latest on the New England Patriots—straight to the point: they signed 11 of their Super Bowl practice-squad players to futures contracts, confirmed commitment to rookie left tackle Will Campbell despite a rocky Super Bowl showing, granted center Ben Brown a contract extension, added fresh depth through free agency, and now face a wave of key upcoming free-agent decisions as they regroup after a tough Super Bowl 2026 loss.
The Patriots locked down developmental talent by signing 11 players from their Super Bowl practice squad to futures contracts for 2026. That includes WRs Jeremiah Webb and John Jiles, TE Marshall Lang, OL Lorenz Metz, Mehki Butler, Andrew Rupcich, DTs Leonard Taylor III and Jeremiah Pharms Jr., LBs Amari Gainer and Otis Reese, plus S John Saunders Jr.—a move showing they value those undrafted and gritty contributors .
On top of that, standout center Ben Brown earned a two-year extension through 2027 worth up to $6.6 million—cementing his place as a trusted interior lineman .
Rookie left tackle Will Campbell played through a torn knee ligament from Week 12, which clearly influenced his performance in Super Bowl 2026, where he gave up 14 pressures—the most in the league .
Still, head coach Mike Vrabel vouched for Campbell’s future role, ruling out moving him to guard and highlighting his continued development. QB Drake Maye echoed that faith, expecting growth from Campbell in the upcoming offseason .
QB Drake Maye openly regretted underutilizing star WR Stefon Diggs in the Super Bowl. Despite Diggs racking up over 1,000 yards during the regular season, he accounted for just 7.3% of Maye’s pass attempts in the big game .
Analyst Adam Archuleta criticized New England’s static approach, saying their offense failed to adapt to Seattle’s aggressive defense—it was predictable and, ultimately, unprepared for Seattle’s blitz-heavy “Dark Side” scheme .
Seven years after their last Super Bowl and long after the Tom Brady era ended, the Patriots surprised many with a return to the championship game in 2026 under QB Drake Maye and coach Mike Vrabel. Their run was built on a fierce defense that allowed just 26 points over three playoff games .
Though they fell short against Seattle, it marked a significant rebound for the franchise—a reminder that rebuilding can bear quick fruit with the right leadership and personnel.
Looking ahead, several players are expected to hit the open market in 2026. Key names:
– Unrestricted FAs: LB K’Lavon Chaisson, S Jaylinn Hawkins, TE Austin Hooper, RB D’Ernest Johnson, and offensive linemen Vederian Lowe and Thayer Munford .
– Restricted FAs: CB Alex Austin, QB Tommy DeVito, OT Yasir Durant, LB Jack Gibbens, DL Jaquelin Roy .
– Plus, Exclusive Rights FAs like Isaiah Iton, RB Deneric Prince, and TE Jack Westover .
Additionally, players like Jaylinn Hawkins and Morgan Moses might be trending toward bigger contracts or even retirement—Moses logged every game of the 2025 season but is 34, sparking speculation about his next career move .
New England has built solid momentum, but the offseason will test its strategic flexibility. With many upcoming free-agent decisions and a core of younger players beginning to emerge, the front office must balance keeping key contributors while continuing to upgrade. Their recent extensions (like Ben Brown’s) show a disciplined approach to retention.
“Commitment to a young, talented left tackle like Campbell—even after a challenging Super Bowl—speaks volumes about the culture Mike Vrabel is building.”
The decisions made now could determine whether the Patriots remain on the upswing or need another bout of restructuring.
The Patriots are at a crossroads: after an unexpectedly deep postseason run, they’ve reinforced that their core, young players matter. They’re retaining developmental talent, trusting youthful assets like Will Campbell, and reinforcing key positions with free-agent extensions. Now, they face critical decisions on contracts and drafts. The next few months will set the tone—for whether New England stays resilient or steps back into rebuild mode.
What did the Patriots do with their practice squad after the Super Bowl?
They signed 11 players from their Super Bowl practice squad to futures contracts for 2026, locking in promising depth players .
Is Will Campbell still the starting left tackle?
Yes. Despite injury and a rough performance in the Super Bowl, head coach Mike Vrabel reaffirmed Campbell’s role at left tackle, and Drake Maye backed that decision .
Why was Drake Maye criticized after the Super Bowl?
He admitted underutilizing Stefon Diggs, despite Diggs having a strong regular season. The offense was labeled predictable and failed to counter Seattle’s defense effectively .
Who are the key Patriots free agents in 2026?
Unrestricted free agents include K’Lavon Chaisson, Jaylinn Hawkins, Austin Hooper, D’Ernest Johnson, Vederian Lowe, and Thayer Munford. Key restricted and exclusive rights FAs also shape the affair .
What does Ben Brown’s contract mean for the team?
His two-year extension shows the team’s intent to keep stability up front. It locks down a reliable center through 2027 .
Why is this offseason pivotal for the Patriots?
They must retain rising stars, manage free agents wisely, and draft with purpose. Their ability to balance those priorities will determine if their recent success lasts or fades.
Nancy Guthrie is a respected American Christian author, Bible teacher, speaker, and podcaster known for…
Savannah Guthrie’s mom is Nancy Guthrie—an 84-year-old stay-at-home mother, revered for her integrity, curiosity, and…
The Turning Point Halftime Show wowed spectators with bold performances, unexpected surprises, and a fresh…
Game Summary and Key Moments The Seahawks' “Dark Side” defense dominated the matchup from start…
The Lindsey Vonn crash refers to her severe fall during the women’s downhill race at…
The 2026 Winter Olympics—officially known as the Milano Cortina Winter Games—are underway from February 6 to…
This website uses cookies.
