New England Patriots Eye Devin Lloyd to Bolster Defense
After finishing last season with the NFL’s eighth-ranked defense in terms of yards allowed, the New England Patriots are poised to enhance their defensive lineup through free agency. One name that’s making waves is Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Devin Lloyd.
The Potential Impact of Devin Lloyd Joining the Patriots
The buzz around Lloyd stems from his potential to replace veteran linebacker Jack Gibbens, who is expected to seek a more lucrative contract elsewhere after a stellar season. Gibbens excelled in 2025, setting personal bests in multiple categories, including tackles for loss and pass deflections, while earning a respectable Pro Football Focus grade of 64.
Enter Devin Lloyd. Known for his dynamic play, Lloyd’s 2025 season stats speak volumes.
Across 15 games, he tallied 1.5 sacks, 10 quarterback hits, seven pass deflections, and a career-high five interceptions, one of which he returned for a 99-yard touchdown. This performance earned him both Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro honors, with a standout PFF grade of 89.1, ranking him third among linebackers.
Financial Considerations for the Patriots
The question remains: What will it cost the Patriots to secure Lloyd’s talents? With key areas like the offensive line and wide receiver positions needing attention, the financial commitment to Lloyd could be significant.
His market value is projected at around $60.4 million over three years, with an average salary of $20.1 million per season. This would make him one of the highest-paid players on the Patriots' roster.
While this investment might seem hefty, Lloyd’s versatility in both run and pass defense fits perfectly with New England’s defensive schemes. Pairing him with current standout Robert Spillane could create a formidable linebacker duo, enhancing the team’s defensive prowess.
In summary, while signing Lloyd might be a luxury rather than a necessity, his addition could elevate the Patriots’ defense to new heights, making them a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.