Patriots Tender Restricted Free Agent LB Jack Gibbens

New England opts to retain valuable linebacker with right-of-first-refusal tender

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The New England Patriots have decided to place the right-of-first-refusal tender on linebacker Jack Gibbens, who is set to become a restricted free agent. Gibbens stepped up in a big way last season, starting multiple games and making valuable contributions on defense and special teams. The Patriots will now have the ability to match any offer sheet Gibbens receives from another team.

Why it matters

Retaining Gibbens is an important move for the Patriots as they look to rebuild their defense this offseason. He proved to be a reliable and versatile player in 2025, and keeping him in the fold will provide continuity and depth at the linebacker position.

The details

Gibbens signed a one-year, $1.3 million contract with the Patriots last offseason and ended up playing a much bigger role than expected. In 17 games, he recorded 81 tackles, 1 sack, 4 pass deflections, and 1 forced fumble. He was particularly impactful late in the year when starter Robert Spillane was dealing with injuries, stepping in and handling the defensive play-calling duties.

  • The Patriots must tender Gibbens by the start of the new league year on March 15, 2026.

The players

Jack Gibbens

A linebacker who signed with the Patriots last offseason and ended up playing a key role on defense and special teams.

Robert Spillane

The Patriots' starting linebacker who missed time due to injuries, allowing Gibbens to step up in his absence.

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What they’re saying

“Clarity should be coming this week with Patriots restricted free agent linebacker Jack Gibbens. It's hard to imagine the Patriots walking away from the valuable Gibbens, who stepped in for injured starter Robert Spillane down the stretch as the primary communicator wearing the green dot on his helmet, so the right-of-first-refusal tender would be the likely target.”

— Mike Reiss, Patriots Insider (ESPN)

What’s next

The Patriots must decide whether to place the first-round, second-round, or right-of-first-refusal tender on Gibbens by the start of the new league year on March 15.

The takeaway

By retaining Gibbens with the right-of-first-refusal tender, the Patriots are keeping a valuable piece of their defense and special teams units. Gibbens proved he can step up when needed, and the Patriots are wisely ensuring they don't lose him for nothing in free agency.