The New England Patriots signed K’Lavon Chaisson to a one-year, $3 million deal last offseason, and they could be looking to keep him around.
Chaisson has been a great addition for the Patriots, and his play this season has set him up nicely for free agency. However, the Patriots could value him enough to make sure he does not hit the open market. Sports Illustrated’s Ethan Hurwitz predicted the Patriots would sign Chaisson to an extension.
“Chaisson came to New England as a cast-off first round pick who tried to revitalize his career with the Raiders,” Hurwitz wrote on Jan 6. “Playing on a one-year deal, the edge rusher earned himself some money — recording 31 tackles, 7.5 sacks (good for second-most on the team) and a fumble recovery touchdown. Whether it’s a one-year deal filled with incentives, or a hefty two/three year contract, Chaisson should return next season.”
Despite starting just 10 games, he was one of the team’s best pass rushers. He set career highs in sacks and tackles for a loss this season.
He continued to prove his worth in the first round of the playoffs. He recorded three total tackles and had two sacks against the Los Angeles Chargers. Keeping him around would be great for the Patriots.
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If Chaisson leaves in free agency, adding a pass rusher becomes a huge priority. The Patriots will likely be looking for pass rushers regardless, but keeping Chaisson around would potentially allow them to draft a pass rusher and allow him to ease his way into the mix.
Chaisson has another chance to earn himself some more money against the Houston Texans. Another strong playoff performance could make the Patriots more inclined to extend him. He has played 88 games in six seasons and has 17.5 career sacks.
