After hiring former defensive star Mike Vrabel as their head coach and dedicating much of their salary cap to strengthening the defense, the Patriots clearly aim to make big improvements on that side of the game in 2025.
However, they might have to face the upcoming season without a key returning player.
Earlier this week, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that linebacker Jahlani Tavai hurt his calf during Monday’s OTAs, which will keep him out until at least training camp.
This news was actually somewhat reassuring, as many reporters feared the worst when Tavai needed help leaving the practice field after teammates showed concern (according to ESPN’s Mike Reiss).
Tavai, a former second-round pick by the Lions, has settled in well with New England over the past few seasons. He stood out as one of the team’s top players in 2023 and 2024, racking up a total of 225 tackles and two sacks in 34 games.
The former Hawaii standout signed a three-year contract extension worth $15 million with the team during the 2024 offseason.
Tavai is likely aiming for another important role in 2025, although the Patriots may not depend on him as much as they used to.
Free agent addition Robert Spillane is expected to take on many inside linebacker duties, but there will be an open competition for the other inside linebacker position. With Tavai off the practice field for now, players like Christian Elliss and/or Jack Gibbens could move up in ranking.
Under Bill Belichick and Jerod Mayo, the Patriots typically used a 3-3-5 nickel defense. Since Vrabel spent most of his playing career in that system, many believe the team will stick with this approach.
However, during his time with the Titans, Vrabel often favored a four-down defensive line. With the Patriots’ stronger depth on the defensive line and some uncertainty at inside linebacker, they might choose to adopt that setup.
The current defensive line for the Patriots includes Milton Williams, Christian Barmore, Keion White, Harold Landry, and K’Lavon Chaisson.
