It seems that the New England Patriots could have a strong team for the upcoming season, especially now with the arrival of a former Tennessee Titans player who could assist in Mike Vrabel’s plans to pursue glory.
The New England Patriots, now under the leadership of former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel, have been aggressive in their approach to reshaping their roster. With Vrabel at the helm, the Patriots are prioritizing a defensive rebuild, and their latest acquisition reflects that strategy. The team has now secured a major addition to its defensive front.
That addition is linebacker Harold Landry, who has agreed to a three-year, $43.5 million contract with the Patriots, including $26 million in guaranteed money. Landry reunites with Vrabel, who coached him from 2018 to 2023 in Tennessee. The 28-year-old pass rusher is no stranger to the New England area, having played his college football at Boston College before being drafted by the Titans in the second round of the 2018 Draft.
Landry’s arrival in New England comes after a productive stint in Tennessee, where he developed into one of the league’s more consistent edge rushers. In 2021, he recorded a career-high 12 sacks and earned a Pro Bowl nod. Despite missing the 2022 season due to a torn ACL, Landry bounced back in 2023, leading the Titans with 10.5 sacks and proving he remains a force on the edge. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and defend the run will be critical in the Patriots’ new defensive scheme.
The Titans’ decision to release Landry stemmed largely from financial considerations. With no trade materializing despite permission being granted for one, the team ultimately cut him to save $10.95 million against the 2025 salary cap. The Patriots, however, saw an opportunity to secure a top-tier edge rusher and wasted little time in bringing him aboard.
LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 15: Harold Landry III #58 of the Tennessee Titans looks on from the sidelines in the fourth quarter during the 2023 NFL London Games match between Baltimore Ravens and Tennessee Titans at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on October 15, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
A Familiar Face in a Familiar Place
Landry’s connection to Mike Vrabel played a key role in his decision to join New England. Speaking candidly late last season, Landry expressed deep respect for his former head coach, stating, “I feel like my time with him and this defensive staff has prepared me as much as possible for every game.” His familiarity with Vrabel’s defensive philosophy should allow him to make an immediate impact.
The move also represents a homecoming of sorts for Landry, who starred at Boston College before making the jump to the NFL. He becomes the first former Eagles player to join the Patriots since 2012 and only the sixth since 2000. That local connection, along with his previous success under Vrabel, makes him a natural fit as New England looks to rebuild its defense into a formidable unit once again.