One of the biggest needs for the New England Patriots heading into the 2026 draft is edge rusher. Among the top prospects to keep an eye on, in what is a talent-rich class, is Texas A&M edge rusher Cashius Howell.
Howell is an elite talent who could immediately bolster the New England pass rush. There has been a lot of buzz surrounding Howell and the Patriots, so let's dive into the star pass rusher and his potential as a prospect.
What Makes Howell a Top Prospect in This Year’s Draft?
Howell is projected to be a first-round pick when the draft rolls around, and with good reason; he is one of the best pass rushers in the class. His burst and athleticism allow him to beat opposing offensive linemen consistently and get to the quarterback, which is as valuable a trait as you can have as an edge rusher.
He has a good repertoire of pass rush moves, which he utilizes, and has the bend off the edge that is so valuable at the NFL level. Many draft experts have been projecting Howell to the Patriots, even though there is a good chance he gets drafted much higher than No. 31 overall. However, if by some chance he slips in the first round, the Patriots should sprint to the phone to get their pick in for him.
How Will Howell Fit into the Patriots' Defense?
It is very exciting to picture Howell as part of this already loaded Patriots defense. With a defensive line that consists of Milton Williams and Christian Barmore, adding another weapon could skyrocket their sack totals and pressures.
Not to mention Patriots defensive coordinator Zak Kuhr is very good at scheming up blitz packages. So, giving him an athlete like Howell could be equally fun for New England fans and terrifying for opposing offensive line coaches. The Texas A&M star could thrive in Foxborough and would likely have an immediate impact as a rookie, since the Patriots are desperate for pass rush help.
What would Howell's role be as a rookie? What is his career potential?
As mentioned above, Howell is considered one of the top prospects in this year’s draft. Adding him to a Patriots roster that just went to the Super Bowl could be a piece that helps them stay at the top of the AFC. This is especially true, given how the New England defense was already tormenting opposing quarterbacks.
During his rookie campaign, Howell could be a serious pass-rushing threat, getting involved in specific blitz packages that would give him the chance to do what he does best. He has all the traits to develop into one of the league’s top pass rushers if he reaches his ceiling. In his first season, I believe he will show serious flashes of what he could turn into.
There will be certain games when he could be asked to do more, and certain games when he will be asked to do less; that is just the life of a rookie in the NFL. However, as the Patriots get closer to the playoffs, they could really unleash Howell. Allowing Howell to ease into his role early in the season should do wonders for his development without throwing him to the wolves. As he gets more comfortable at the NFL level, we will see more flashes of a true alpha pass rusher.
The hope is that Howell will be showing those flashes in a Patriots uniform. We'll find out soon enough whether the front office feels the same way about the former Texas A&M standout.