PATRIOTS FREE AGENTS: Christian Elliss (RFA)
NOTABLE EXTERNAL FREE AGENTS: Dre Greenlaw (SF, PFF FA Rank: 18th), Nick Bolton (KC, PFF FA Rank: 34th), Ernest Jones (SEA, PFF FA Rank: 58th), Zack Baun (PHI, PFF FA Rank: 61st).
POSITION ANALYSIS:
2025 Free Agency Preview: Linebackers
The New England Patriots enter the 2025 offseason with some key decisions to make at the linebacker position. Christian Elliss, one of the team's internal free agents, showcased significant improvement in 2024, registering significant snaps on defense for the first time in his career. While Elliss has flashed the ability to contribute in both run support and coverage, the Patriots could still look to reinforce the linebacker group with additional talent in free agency.
The return of Ja'Whaun Bentley should provide an immediate boost to the group, but added depth and long-term stability should be addressed.
With several intriguing options available on the market, New England has an opportunity to add speed, physicality, and versatility to their linebacker corps. Here's a look at some of the most notable free-agent linebackers who could be strong fits in Foxborough.
Notable External Free Agents
Dre Greenlaw (SF) – PFF FA Rank: 18th
Greenlaw has been one of the most consistent and productive linebackers in San Francisco's defense. His ability to diagnose plays quickly, combined with his sideline-to-sideline speed, would make him an excellent fit in New England's scheme. Greenlaw's coverage ability is particularly valuable, as the Patriots have often struggled against dynamic pass-catching running backs and tight ends. If the Patriots are looking for a high-end playmaker at the second level, Greenlaw would be a top-tier addition. After sustaining an Achilles tendon tear in the 2023 playoffs, Greenlaw missed nearly all of 2024. He could be looking for a one-year prove-it deal before getting long-term security in 2026, or the Pats could choose to bet on the player and give him the big deal now.
Nick Bolton (KC) – PFF FA Rank: 34th
Bolton has been a key piece in the Chiefs' defensive success, bringing a physical, downhill presence to the linebacker position. His ability to take on blockers and make plays in the run game would provide an immediate boost to the Patriots' front seven. Bolton's leadership and toughness align well with New England's defensive identity, making him a natural fit if the team prioritizes run defense and tackling reliability.
Ernest Jones (SEA) – PFF FA Rank: 58th
Jones has flown under the radar but has quietly developed into a well-rounded linebacker. He's shown the ability to generate pressure on the quarterback while also being effective in coverage. His versatility would allow the Patriots to use him in multiple roles, whether as an inside linebacker in base packages or as a situational blitzer. If New England is looking for a balanced linebacker with room to grow, Jones could be a smart target.
Zack Baun (PHI) – PFF FA Rank: 61st
Baun originally entered the league as a hybrid edge defender but has since transitioned into more of a traditional off-ball linebacker role. His pass-rushing background makes him an intriguing fit in New England's scheme, as the Patriots value linebackers who can generate pressure on the quarterback. Baun's skill set could allow the team to deploy him as a versatile chess piece, contributing both in coverage and as a situational blitzer.
Jamien Sherwood (NYJ) – PFF FA Rank: 65th
Sherwood has developed into a solid linebacker after transitioning from safety early in his NFL career. His athleticism and coverage skills make him an asset against modern NFL offenses that rely on quick passing attacks. While he has yet to establish himself as an every-down player, his versatility and ability to match up against tight ends and running backs in coverage would be valuable in New England's defensive system. If the Patriots are looking for a linebacker with upside in coverage, Sherwood could be a cost-effective addition with room to grow.
Conclusion
The Patriots have multiple paths to improving their linebacker group in free agency. If they want a premier coverage linebacker, Greenlaw would be an excellent choice. Bolton offers physicality and leadership, making him an ideal fit for a defense that wants to establish a strong run-stopping presence. Jones provides versatility and upside, while Baun could be a creative addition as a hybrid defender. Adding one of these free agents could solidify the Patriots' linebacker unit and provide much-needed depth and playmaking ability.
DISCLAIMER: The views and thoughts expressed in this article are those of the writer and don't necessarily reflect those of the organization. Read Full Disclaimer
