Patriots Sign Defensive Lineman Dre'Mont Jones in Free Agency

Three-year, $39 million deal adds much-needed pass-rushing help for New England

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The New England Patriots have signed defensive lineman Dre'Mont Jones to a three-year, $39 million contract in free agency. Jones, a 29-year-old edge rusher, is expected to help fill a void for the Patriots' defense, which lacked a true top pass-rushing threat last season.

Why it matters

The Patriots' defense was strong overall in 2025, but the team struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, especially off the edge. Jones' signing addresses this need and provides the Patriots with a versatile defensive lineman capable of making plays both on the interior and exterior of the defensive line.

The details

Jones, who spent the first four seasons of his NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens, is coming off a 2025 campaign in which he recorded 8 sacks, 15 quarterback hits, and 2 forced fumbles. At 6'3" and 281 pounds, he has the size and athleticism to be an impact player for the Patriots' defense.

  • Jones agreed to the three-year, $39 million contract with the Patriots on March 10, 2026.

The players

Dre'Mont Jones

A 29-year-old defensive lineman who spent the first four seasons of his NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens.

K'Lavon Chaisson

A free agent edge rusher who played for the Patriots in 2025.

Harold Landry III

A Patriots edge rusher who was plagued by injuries in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“The Patriots had to make a move for an edge rusher, and while Jones wasn't the top available player at the position, he should still be a strong addition to the roster. He's a dynamic playmaker with the ability to wreck plays on the inside and outside. That kind of versatility along the defensive front will be a huge plus for the Patriots.”

— Jordy McElroy, Sports Writer (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

The Patriots will look to re-sign free agent edge rusher K'Lavon Chaisson or sign another veteran pass-rusher to further bolster their defensive front. They may also target edge rusher as a top priority in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The signing of Dre'Mont Jones is a solid move by the Patriots to address a key need on their defense, but the team still has work to do to build a dominant pass-rushing unit. Jones' versatility and talent should make him a valuable addition, but the Patriots will need to continue to invest in their defensive front to truly elevate their defense to an elite level.