The New England Patriots are facing a challenge in fixing their lackluster pass rush. Head coach Jerod Mayo and defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington are determined to address this issue, especially if free-agent outside linebacker Josh Uche decides to leave during the 2024 NFL free agency. Fortunately, there is a potential solution for the Patriots: trading for Pro Bowler Haason Reddick.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Philadelphia Eagles have made Reddick available for trade. It was thought that Reddick would push for a contract extension after an impressive 16-sack season in 2022. However, he played out the second year of his three-year deal and is now preparing for a big payday elsewhere.
Reddick has denied requesting a trade, but he understands that football is a business. If the Eagles and Reddick do part ways, the Patriots should not hesitate to pursue him. Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports points out that the Patriots have more projected cap space than all but two teams, making them an attractive destination for Reddick. Additionally, New England’s hybrid 3-4 defense would be a good fit for Reddick, potentially offsetting the loss of free-agent outside linebackers like Uche.
While the specifics of a potential trade for Reddick are not mentioned, the Patriots should explore all possibilities. Reddick has an impressive track record, accumulating 51 sacks in the last four seasons. His versatility as a pass-rusher, able to excel as a standup outside linebacker or traditional defensive end, makes him a perfect fit for the Patriots’ multiple-front schemes.
Reddick, who is 29 years old, had another standout season with 11 sacks. What sets him apart is his ability to make the most of his pass-rushing opportunities. In 2022, he led the league with 71 pressures, despite having fewer pass rush snaps than the 11 players ahead of him. This productivity is a testament to his skill and effectiveness on the field.
The Patriots should seriously consider trading for Reddick to bolster their pass rush. His presence would greatly benefit the team and help address one of their key challenges.
Patriots in Desperate Need of Heat on the Pocket
The New England Patriots are in dire need of a higher rate of heat on the pocket. According to Pro Football Reference, their defense only managed to generate 135 pressures throughout the course of 17 games.
Consistent pressure is crucial in wrecking plays at the source. Just take the example of Haason Reddick, who forced an intentional grounding penalty from Washington Commanders’ quarterback Sam Howell, as reported by Shane Haff of SB Nation’s Bleeding Green Nation.
Reddick’s pressure skills were sorely missed after four-time Pro Bowler Matthew Judon landed on injured reserve. However, once Judon recovers from biceps surgery, pairing him with Reddick shouldn’t be a problem.
Fortunately, the Patriots have a healthy amount of cap space, estimated to be $69,866,052, as per Spotrac.com. This means they can afford Reddick’s contract, which is set to account for £21,377,000 in 2024.
With Reddick and Judon as a formidable duo, it’s likely that Josh Uche will become surplus to requirements. Uche’s sack numbers dropped significantly from 11.5 to three, and his pressure stats plummeted from 25 to 15, according to Pro Football Reference. Despite playing slightly fewer snaps in 2022 compared to the previous year, reduced playing time wasn’t the main factor contributing to Uche’s decline.
On the other hand, Reddick has consistently made the most of his situational role. PFF NE Patriots reported that Uche was still winning his pass-rush matchups early in the season. However, his production dwindled as he only managed to notch three pressures across seven games from Week 5 onwards.
Uche’s struggles forced the Patriots to rely on more blitz calls to manufacture pressure. But by adding a proven and prolific edge-rusher like Reddick, defensive coordinator Steve Mayo and defensive line coach Eliot Covington can reduce the reliance on blitzing. They can instead count on a front led by Judon and Christian Barmore to collapse the pocket.
In conclusion, the Patriots must prioritize acquiring Reddick to address their lack of pressure on the pocket. With the potential pairing of Reddick and Judon, the defense can reach new heights and become a force to be reckoned with. James Dudko provides comprehensive coverage of the New York Giants, Washington Commanders, New England Patriots, and Baltimore Ravens for [source].
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