New England Patriots sign rookie edge rusher Gabe Jacas to four-year deal

Gabe Jacas, the Patriots’ second‑round selection (55th overall) and the only unsigned rookie in the NFL, agreed to a four‑year contract worth up to $8.6 million on the opening day of the 2026 training camp. The deal, announced by NFL insider Jordan Schultz, follows weeks of negotiations after the team expressed caution over Jacas’ medical history, which includes a post‑knee “clean‑up” procedure, hamstring issues, a labral shoulder tear and a stress fracture in his foot.

Head coach Mike Vrabel said the talks had been “positive” and expressed optimism about Jacas joining the roster soon. The signing clears a lingering contract dispute that kept Jacas away from rookie minicamps and mandatory team activities, allowing him to practice with New England as the Patriots prepare for their preseason opener against the Colts on Aug. 13. The contract marks the final piece of the Patriots’ 2026 draft class to be under contract, concluding a period of speculation that included a press conference where Vrabel fielded several questions about the deal.