One of the biggest signings the New England Patriots made during the first week of NFL free agency was edge rusher Dre’Mont Jones. But the final result for New England’s defense might be a net zero because fellow edge rusher K’Lavon Chaisson left in free agency.
For that reason, NFL.com’s Matt Okada argued the Patriots should re-pursue the possibility of a Maxx Crosby trade.
But, if New England can’t acquire Crosby, Okada suggested a Plan B — a reunion with former Patriots edge rusher Kyle Van Noy.
“After watching K’Lvaon Chaisson depart and signing Dre’Mont Jones, the Pats have improved very little in the pass-rush department,” wrote Okada. “The red-hot option? If Brown talks grow stale, New England could shift that trade capital to acquire Maxx Crosby from the Raiders.
“Mike Vrabel’s defense would be an absolute terror with the five-time Pro Bowler on the edge.
“The more mild and realistic option is to draft an edge rusher in the first round and sign one of the well-seasoned rotational veterans still on the market.”
If the Patriots signed Van Noy this offseason, it will be the edge rusher’s second return to the team.
Van Noy has played parts of five seasons in New England during his 12-year NFL career. The Patriots first acquired the edge rusher from the Detroit Lions close to the 2016 NFL trade deadline.
From 2016-19, Van Noy started 45 games for New England, posting 16.5 sacks. After one season with the Miami Dolphins, Van Noy returned to the Patriots for the 2021 campaign.
The past three seasons, the veteran edge rusher played for the Baltimore Ravens. In 2024, he made the Pro Bowl with 12.5 sacks.
Could Patriots Still Trade for Maxx Crosby?
New England missed on acquiring Crosby in early March. At the time, the second-team All-Pro edge rusher was going to the Baltimore Ravens for two first-round picks.
But Baltimore nullified the trade days later, sending Crosby back to Las Vegas.
The Raiders could still deal Crosby this offseason. NFL insiders reportedly see trade negotiations potentially heating up again around the edge rusher closer to the draft.
Okada clearly sees the Patriots as a suitor because of their edge rusher need.
New England featured a strong defense overall on its way to the AFC champion last season. But the Patriots were ranked 22nd in sacks with 35.
Chaisson had 7.5 of those sacks, which was ranked second on the team.
Most pundits considered Crosby the top edge rusher available this offseason. He’s made the Pro Bowl every season since 2021.
In 2025, he had 10 sacks with 28 tackles for loss and 20 quarterback hits.
If he’s traded, whatever team lands Crosby will be transforming their pass rush immediately.
Kyle Van Noy a Potential Patriots Free Agent Target?
Crosby was pretty clearly Okada’s top choice for New England to complete addressing its pass rush this offseason. But the analyst was in favor of the Patriots bringing back Van Noy again as well.
Van Noy wouldn’t be the difference maker Crosby can be. But the former Patriots edge rusher could certainly bring a veteran presence and quality depth next season.
In 2025, Van Noy posted two sacks with four tackles for loss and nine quarterback hits. He also had four pass defenses and an interception.
On top of the 12.5 sacks two years ago, Van Noy registered 14 tackles for loss, and 21 quarterback hits. All of those were career bests.
The veteran edge rusher will turn 35 years old this month.
Patriots Advised to Bring Back Pro Bowler If Maxx Crosby Trade Fails