The New England Patriots wrapped up spring practices last Wednesday. While much of the focus of OTAs and mandatory minicamp is directed at how second-year quarterback Drake Maye and the offense are developing, keeping an eye on the defense is also a must.
Last year, New England had one of the worst pass rushes in the NFL, recording a league low 28 sacks and only pressuring the QB 17.6% of the time. To address this issue, the Patriots added multiple pass-rushing disruptors in free agency, including DT Milton Williams, edge rusher Harold Landry, and edge rusher K'Lavon Chaisson.
Of the three signings, Chaisson was the least talked about, given the disappointing start he has had to his career. That said, the 25-year-old edge rusher seems to be building momentum following mandatory minicamp.
K'Lavon Chaisson Flying Under the Radar Heading into Training Camp
According to Mike D'Abate of New England Patriots on SI, Chaisson was one of four players who were credited with a would-be sack last Wednesday. Though it's only in T-shirts and shorts, hearing that he is flashing is a good sign for the Patriots.
Chaisson, a former first-round pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020, has struggled to establish himself in the NFL. During four seasons with the Jaguars, the former LSU Tiger recorded 73 tackles, five sacks,17 QB hits, 41 QB hurries, and 63 quarterback pressures.
Furthermore, he never recorded a pass rush grade over 60.0, according to PFF. For a player selected with the 20th overall pick, a terrible way to start a career. Fortunately, Chaisson turned his fortunes around last year with the Las Vegas Raiders.
In 2024, he recorded 32 tackles, five sacks, four quarterback hits, 19 QB hurries and 29 QB pressures. Moreover, he registered a 74.7 pass rush grade in 2024, which was 28th among edge rushers.
With Mike Vrabel's defensive expertise, Chaisson should be able to build on what seems to be a successful spring in training camp. If that's what happens, New England's pass rush could be on the rise in 2025.