The New England Patriots had an outstanding season in the first year of the Mike Vrabel era. Despite the success, they have big decisions to make in free agency. Six players are slated to hit unrestricted free agency, and not everyone will be back in New England.
One player that likely wouldn't have the same type of fortune elsewhere is linebacker K'Lavon Chaisson. And if he signs with another team than New England, he could be on the fast track to letting them down.
K’Lavon Chaisson Could See His Success Take a Hit If He Leaves Patriots
Chaisson signed with the Patriots on a one-year, $3 million deal last offseason, a move that was considered a depth signing. Instead, he had his best year as a pro in New England. Chaisson posted career-highs in total pressures (54), hurries (34), QB hits (18), and sacks (7.5). He kept up his positive play in the playoffs, recording three sacks and 10 hurries.
Chaisson gave the Patriots a pass-rushing option who could consistently get after the quarterback, but there's no telling whether he'll be back. New England has the funds to pay him if they wanted, as they currently have $40 million in cap space, per Overthecap.
Spotrac projects his market value is $9 million per season, landing a three-year, $26 million contract on the open market. While that isn't in the upper echelon of the highest-paid pass rushers in the NFL, it's still a nice-sized deal. Before his time in New England, though, Chaisson didn't produce much, and that should be a concern not only for the Patriots' front office but the rest of the league.
2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Sacks: 1 | Sacks: 1 | Sacks: 1 | Sacks: 2 | Sacks: 5 |
Hurries: 20 | Hurries: 12 | Hurries: 3 | Hurries: 6 | Hurries: 19 |
Pressures: 29 | Pressures: 15 | Pressures: 5 | Pressures: 14 | Pressures: 29 |
Chaisson fought through his own troubles during the first five years of his career with the Jaguars and Raiders. Coming to New England got him playing at another level, and that goes back to the coaching he was receiving. A team in free agency would expect the 2025 version of the former LSU standout after paying him, but the odds are higher that he reverts to his old self once he leaves New England.
Good coaching staffs and teams can get the best out of a player, but once they suit up elsewhere, they don't play at the same level. There's a good chance that this happens with Chaisson if he leaves Foxborough. The Patriots got into a nice flow, knowing how to utilize him best, and it worked out for both sides.
Whether to seek to extend the partnership remains to be seen but if the 26-year-old leaves, there's a possibility he doesn't play at his 2025 level, which would be a bummer for his next team.