The New England Patriots are shaking things up as the 2026 NFL year kicks off, making strategic moves to bolster their roster. They've inked deals with tight end Julian Hill and safety Mike Brown, both joining as unrestricted free agents.
Julian Hill, a 25-year-old talent, spent the last three seasons with the Miami Dolphins. Originally undrafted out of Campbell in 2023, Hill has made his mark in the AFC East with 45 game appearances and 26 starts.
Known for his skills as an inline blocker, Hill has 33 receptions totaling 288 yards. His experience includes 1,298 offensive snaps and 496 on special teams.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 251 pounds, Hill adds depth to a tight end group that features Hunter Henry, C.J. Dippre, and Marshall Lang, following Austin Hooper's move to the Atlanta Falcons.
Mike Brown, 26, started his NFL journey as an undrafted rookie from Miami of Ohio in 2022. His path included stints on the practice squads of the Packers, Vikings, and Browns before landing a spot on the Tennessee Titans' 53-man roster in 2023.
With 35 games under his belt in the AFC South, Brown has recorded 59 tackles and two passes defensed. At 6-foot-1 and 218 pounds, Brown joins a safety lineup that includes All-Pro Kevin Byard, Craig Woodson, Dell Pettus, Brenden Schooler, and John Saunders Jr., stepping in after Jaylinn Hawkins' departure to the Ravens.
Hill has signed a three-year contract, while Brown has agreed to a one-year deal, as reported by ESPN’s Mike Reiss. These additions reflect the Patriots' commitment to strengthening their squad with versatile and experienced players.