Continuing their offseason strategy of securing key players for the long term, the Patriots have reached a deal to extend linebacker Jahlani Tavai for three more years, as reported by ESPN’s Mike Reiss and Adam Schefter.
The contract is worth $15MM, with the potential to rise to $21MM. Tavai, who was heading into a contract year, will now be with the Patriots until 2027. The 27-year-old has been a valuable player on the team’s defense for the past three seasons.
Tavai started his career with the Lions before joining the Patriots. He initially played 13 games without starting after being released by Detroit. In the following two years, he saw an increase in defensive playing time to 50% and 76%. Tavai is expected to continue as a key contributor in the Patriots’ defensive lineup.
Although Tavai was scheduled to earn $1.88MM in 2024 with no guaranteed salary, this new deal provides him with a significant raise and reflects the team’s confidence in his performance. He achieved a career-high 69 tackles in 2022 and improved to 110 tackles last season, along with two interceptions, 2.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. If he maintains his consistency throughout the contract, this extension could prove to be a wise investment for the team.
New England has been active in 2024 in securing and extending key players, especially on defense. Players like defensive tackle Christian Barmore and safety Kyle Dugger signed lucrative deals earlier this year. Linebackers Josh Uche and Anfernee Jennings also finalized their own contracts. With a strong defense that ranked seventh last season, the Patriots will have continuity with familiar faces in 2024.
With over $44MM in cap space, the Patriots can easily absorb Tavai’s new contract. His cap hit of $3.16MM in 2024 will likely change once the deal is official, but he remains a crucial part of the team’s defense for the foreseeable future.