Overview
- New England drafted Gabe Jacas 55th overall and he told coach Mike Vrabel to send the playbook because he was ready.
- The Illinois pass rusher produced 43 tackles, 11 sacks, 13.5 tackles for loss and three forced fumbles in his final college season.
- Nick Saban praised his effort and toughness but asked whether he fits better as an outside linebacker or a defensive end.
- Sports Illustrated’s Ethan Hurwitz projected Jacas as a potential Week 1 starter across from Jones with Landry’s recovery still a question.
- The move fits a broader edge rebuild after K’Lavon Chaisson left, as the Patriots signed Dre’Mont Jones and later drafted Quintayvious Hutchins for depth.