Patriots sign extension with Jahlani Tavai
Tavai had his best season and New England rewarded him with an extension that can reach up to $21 million.
The New England Patriots have always stood out for having a reliable group of linebackers and the most recent of them is Jahlani Tavai, who will now be part of the franchise until the end of the 2027 season.
According to reports from ESPN and NFL Network, Tavai and the Patriots agreed to a three-year contract extension worth $15 million that can reach as high as $21 million. In 2022 he signed an extension for the league minimum, making him a free agent at the end of the 2024 season. For next season, the Pats’ starting linebackers are currently set to be Matthew Judon, Ja’Whaun Bentley and Tavai.
Jahlani Tavai’s road to stardom
Tavai had to fight to earn a spot on the Patriots roster. The University of Hawaii graduate entered the NFL as a second-round pick for the Detroit Lions in 2019, but was cut two years later. The linebacker came to New England straight to the practice squad and his role was limited in his first year, only accumulating 14 tackles, mainly as a special teams player.
During 2022 his role on the special teams was maintained, but his prominence in New England’s 3-4 defense grew as he played half of the defensive snaps as a right inside linebacker. Last year was the best of his career, posting 110 tackles, five pass deflections, two interceptions, two fumbles caused and a quarterback sack.