Patriots Focus on Linebackers for 2026 Draft

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The New England Patriots are ramping up their work for the 2026 NFL Draft.

Even after some moves in free agency, they still have key gaps, especially at linebacker.

They recently cut Jalani Tevi and lost Jack Gibbons, who signed a two-year deal with the Arizona

Cardinals. To fill those spots, the team met with two promising Michigan linebackers Ernest

Houseman and Jimmy Rollder during Whiteboard sessions.

Both players stood out on Michigan's defense last season.

Houseman had 68 tackles, one sack, and one pass break-up.

Rollder posted 73 tackles, two sacks, one interception, and two pass break-ups.

Scouts see them as Day 3 picks, with Rollder getting a slight edge as the top prospect.

The Patriots hold 11 selections overall, giving them plenty of chances to grab depth players like

these. With the draft still months away, this early scouting shows New England's focus on building

a stronger linebacker group for the long haul.