NFL News Roundup: Patriots Waive Veteran Pass Rusher Yannick Ngakoue
**Foxborough, MA** – The New England Patriots have released veteran pass rusher Yannick Ngakoue, the team announced on Tuesday. The move comes as a surprise, as Ngakoue had been a key part of the Patriots’ defense since he was acquired from the Minnesota Vikings in 2021.
Ngakoue, 27, has been one of the most productive pass rushers in the NFL over the past several seasons. He has recorded at least eight sacks in each of the past five seasons, including a career-high 12 sacks in 2019 with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
The Patriots acquired Ngakoue in a trade with the Vikings in October 2021, sending a second-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft to Minnesota. Ngakoue started 13 games for the Patriots in 2021, recording six sacks and 20 tackles.
However, Ngakoue’s production declined in 2022. He started just eight games and recorded only 2.5 sacks. The Patriots also struggled as a team, finishing with a 8-9 record and missing the playoffs.
The Patriots’ decision to waive Ngakoue is likely due to a number of factors, including his declining production and the emergence of younger pass rushers on the roster. The Patriots have several young players who have shown promise as pass rushers, including Deatrich Wise Jr., Josh Uche, and Ronnie Perkins.
Ngakoue’s release will save the Patriots approximately $13 million in cap space. The Patriots are currently projected to have about $40 million in cap space, which gives them plenty of room to make other moves before the start of the 2023 season.
Ngakoue is now a free agent and is expected to draw interest from a number of teams. He is still a productive pass rusher and could be a valuable addition to a team in need of help getting to the quarterback.
Ngakoue’s Career Highlights
* 55.5 career sacks
* 8+ sacks in each of the past five seasons
* Career-high 12 sacks in 2019 with the Jacksonville Jaguars
* Pro Bowl selection in 2017
Patriots’ Pass Rush Outlook
The Patriots’ pass rush is now led by Deatrich Wise Jr., who had 7.5 sacks in 2022. Josh Uche and Ronnie Perkins are also expected to contribute to the pass rush in 2023.
The Patriots could also look to add a pass rusher in the NFL Draft or through free agency. The Patriots have the 14th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, and there are several talented pass rushers who could be available at that spot.
Impact on the Patriots’ Cap Space
Ngakoue’s release will save the Patriots approximately $13 million in cap space. The Patriots are currently projected to have about $40 million in cap space, which gives them plenty of room to make other moves before the start of the 2023 season.