Edge rusher with double-digit sacks viewed as draft fit for Patriots
Illinois outside linebacker Gabe Jacas was recently touted as a fitting edge rusher for the Patriots in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Does the name Gabe Jacas ring a bell? The 2026 NFL Draft is right around the corner. With that comes a heightened level of anticipation for which top prospects the New England Patriots will add to their roster for next season.
Jacas, the standout Illinois outside linebacker, is among the second tier of heralded edge rushers that will wait to hear his name called in the draft. According to ESPN’s Matt Miller, the Patriots ’ need at defensive end is a job opening well suited for Jacas, who New England has the option to select in the draft. ”Gabe Jacas, Edge, Illinois.
A key area of need for New England is finding speed off the edge,” Miller said. “At 6-foot-4 and 260 pounds, Jacas is well-built but also has the first-step twitch that's missing in Vrabel's defense. ” The need for talent on the edge is evident for the Patriots.
They signed Dre'Mont Jones in free agency, but they lost K'Lavon Chaisson and released Anfernee Jennings. Harold Landry III, who is expected to play across from Jones, was banged up for most of the 2025 season. Jacas turned in 11 sacks in 2025.