Ahead of next week’s free-agent frenzy, the New England Patriots bolstered their linebacker depth on Thursday by signing Jesse Luketa to a one-year deal, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz.
The 27-year-old outside linebacker has appeared in 31 career NFL games, including three starts. Throughout his career, Luketa has recorded 31 total tackles, three sacks, and one forced fumble. Notably, all three of his sacks came during the 2024 season while playing for the Arizona Cardinals. That year, he appeared in 10 games before suffering a season-ending thigh injury.
After being cleared to return from injury, Luketa spent the final months of the 2025 season on the Los Angeles Rams’ practice squad.
While Luketa could serve primarily as a practice squad option for New England, the Patriots appear to be prioritizing depth in their pass-rushing corps. This move comes amid uncertainty surrounding the future of K’Lavon Chaisson, a pending free agent. If Chaisson chooses not to re-sign with the Patriots, New England will need to find ways to replicate his production.
Adding to the concern is the health status of veteran Harold Landry Jr., who was limited last season due to a nagging knee injury and remains a question mark for the upcoming year.
With these factors in mind, Luketa’s signing provides the Patriots with additional pass-rush depth as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2026/03/05/patriots-sign-veteran-edge-rusher-to-1-year-contract/
