Figures around the New England Patriots were reportedly “stunned” by head coach Bill Belichick’s decision to re-sign linebacker Mack Wilson.
Wilson, 25, was re-signed by the Patriots on a modest one-year deal last month, despite having a disappointing 2022-23 season. New England acquired Wilson last offseason in the trade that sent Chase Winovich to the Cleveland Browns, and the franchise were hoping he could bring some much needed speed and playmaking ability.
Wilson had his moments during training camp and early in the regular season - but ultimately failed to make an impact in the Patriots’ defense. In fact, Wilson didn’t see a single defensive snap over the final five games and was demoted to special teams duty.
So head coach Belichick’s decision to hand Wilson a one-year deal has “stunned” some figures at the Patriots, according to Boston Sports Journal. “Probably the most surprising player to return to the organisation: linebacker Mack Wilson,” Greg Bedard wrote. “Sources around the team were stunned that Belichick OK’d that move.”
The Patriots also re-signed veteran linebacker Raekwon McMillan and they still have Ja’Whaun Bentley, as well as Jahlani Tavai under contract. Signings, trades and draft selections ahead of the 2023-24 season can still happen, however head coach Belichick appears to be relatively content with his group of linebackers.
Whether the Patriots bring in any more new faces before this month’s NFL Draft is yet to be seen. One player who won’t be turning up in New England is Baltimore Ravens star quarterback Lamar Jackson.
The Patriots will not be in the running for the 2019 MVP, according to The Athletic, despite Jackson keen on a move. Belichick has put his faith in Mac Jones.
Jackson's future has been up in the air since last year, when the quarterback rejected a five-year £208.5million ($250m) deal with the Ravens. The contract that would have seen him make a guaranteed £111m ($133m), but Jackson feels as though he's worth more than what the franchise are offering.
The Jackson-Ravens dispute has seen a non-exclusive franchise tag placed on the player. If a player on a non-exclusive tag agrees to a deal with a new team, the original team can match it or refuse and be awarded two first-round picks as compensation.
