Patriots Claim Veteran Pass Rusher Off Waivers

The New England Patriots have claimed veteran pass rusher Yannick Ngakoue off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens, looking to add depth and experience to a defensive front that has struggled to generate pressure this season. 

Ngakoue, a nine-year NFL veteran and former Pro Bowler with 70.5 career sacks, arrives at a crucial time for New England. Following trades of key pass rushers Matthew Judon in the offseason and Josh Uche and the recent ACL injury to Oshane Ximines, the Patriots' edge-rushing unit was left thin, ranking 29th in the league with only 16 sacks on the season.

Source: The #Patriots claimed pass-rusher Yannick Ngakoue, formerly of the #Ravens. pic.twitter.com/AfqaGeiBys

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 8, 2024

Ngakoue brings solid experience to New England's young pass-rushing corps. Though his recent production has dipped—he posted just 1.5 sacks in five games with Baltimore this year—Ngakoue’s career resume includes a 12-sack Pro Bowl season in 2017 and a history of forced turnovers. 

"Adding another option like Ngakoue should make life a little easier for New England’s current personnel," wrote analysts Bernd Buchmasser and Taylor Kyles, as the Patriots aim to keep their young players in natural roles and reduce individual workloads. 

His presence should benefit emerging players like Keion White, providing the younger edge rushers with a seasoned mentor.

Before the trade deadline, the #Ravens could've released Yannick Ngakoue from the 53-man roster and immediately signed him to the practice squad because he's a vested veteran.

After the trade deadline, all players are subject to waivers and the #Patriots plucked Ngakoue instead.

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 8, 2024

Financially, Ngakoue’s contract is manageable, with New England inheriting a one-year deal worth $985,000, pro-rated for the remainder of the season. 

The Patriots hope this low-risk addition could pay off quickly, with Ngakoue potentially making his debut as early as Sunday against the Chicago Bears, one of his former teams. 

As NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport noted, “New England isn’t in a position to be picky,” and Ngakoue’s arrival offers both a chance to bolster their pass rush and help guide a defense seeking consistency in the back half of the season.

Photo Credit: Brad Mills-Imagn Images