All-Big Ten LB could fill major need for Patriots in 2026 NFL Draft

The New England Patriots have room to take a linebacker that is ready to contribute at the NFL level in the 2026 NFL Draft. Oregon linebacker Bryce Boettcher shows signs of being able to play at the highest level from Day 1. Boettcher was a two-sport athlete at Oregon from 2022-25.

When watching Boettcher’s instincts, as well as his ability to cover ground in Oregon’s second line of defense last season, those capabilities serve as a telltale sign of the skills that he possesses as an outfielder. The 23-year-old was a support for Oregon’s defensive line in 2025. Boettcher led the Big Ten in assisted tackles last season with 80.

He frequently played his part in helping to stop the run or cut off receivers from gaining yardage on a variety of plays. Boettcher also had no issues reading plays, turning, or backpedaling off the snap to make plays against the pass in the intermediate, as well as on plays down the field. He recorded an interception on the year and also came away with six passes defended last season.

The Patriots stand to gain from potentially looking Boettcher’s way in the draft. Whether it’s ensuring that ball-carriers do not make the most of holes in the interior, or that opposing quarterbacks do not scramble out of the pocket to get the first down, Boettcher serves as an active linebacker who has the ability to parade around to make many plays on the field. Follow Patriots Wire on Twitter and Facebook .