Patriots To Sign DT DaQuan Jones

The veteran defensive tackle is expected to sign with the Patriots, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. This will be a one-year pact with a base value of $3.5MM, Rapoport adds. Jones can collect up to $6MM with New England.

In August, Jones took part in two known free agent workouts. One of those was with the Patriots, so today’s news comes as little surprise. This signing will allow for a reunion between Jones and head coach Mike Vrabel after they spent three seasons together in Tennessee.

The Patriots entered the campaign in need of depth along the defensive interior. As a veteran of 167 games (all but six of which have been starts across his time with the in Tennessee, Carolina and Buffalo), Jones will certainly provide a veteran presence at the DT spot. The 34-year-old played 12 games last season, his fourth and final one as a member of the Bills.

Buffalo’s defense has undergone several changes in recent months, including the decision not to re-sign Jones after his second Bills contract expired. That 2024 deal was worth $8MM per season, so this accord is a notable step back from a financial standpoint. Nevertheless, Jones will look to provide a rotational presence for the Pats beginning in Week 2 and help his chances of landing a contract much sooner next offseason.

Milton Williams, Cory Durden and Christian Barmore are in line to remain key figures on the defensive interior for New England. Recent draftees Leonard Taylor and Joshua Farmer represent the Patriots’ top backups at that spot. Jones – who posted 10 sacks and 47 tackles for loss during his Buffalo tenure – will aim to contribute in a rotational capacity within that group.