Patriots Sign DE Dre'Mont Jones, FB Reggie Gilliam

New England adds veteran defensive end and fullback in free agency

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The New England Patriots have agreed to multi-year deals with free agent defensive end Dre'Mont Jones and fullback Reggie Gilliam. Jones, a 29-year-old pass rusher, signed a 3-year, $39.5 million contract after splitting the 2025 season between the Tennessee Titans and Baltimore Ravens. Gilliam, a 28-year-old blocking specialist, signed a 3-year, $12 million deal after spending his first six NFL seasons with the AFC East rival Buffalo Bills.

Why it matters

The Patriots are looking to bolster both their defensive line and running game with these free agent signings. Jones provides an experienced pass-rushing presence, while Gilliam is known as one of the league's top blocking fullbacks, which could help New England's ground attack.

The details

Jones has 37.5 career sacks in 108 games over seven NFL seasons, including a career-best 7 sacks in 2025 split between the Titans and Ravens. Gilliam has played in 94 games with 11 starts for the Bills, providing strong blocking skills and scoring 2 receiving touchdowns.

  • Jones signed a 3-year, $39.5 million deal with the Patriots on March 10, 2026.
  • Gilliam signed a 3-year, $12 million deal with the Patriots on March 10, 2026.

The players

Dre'Mont Jones

A 29-year-old defensive end who has spent 7 seasons in the NFL, most recently with the Tennessee Titans and Baltimore Ravens.

Reggie Gilliam

A 28-year-old fullback who has played his entire 6-year NFL career so far with the Buffalo Bills.

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The takeaway

These free agent signings show the Patriots are focused on improving both their defensive front and running game as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season.