The New England Patriots released edge defender Yannick Ngakoue ahead of their regular season finale against the Buffalo Bills. While players typically aren’t happy about losing their jobs, the Patriots may have been doing a favor for the nine-year veteran. Currently holding the first-overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, New England’s season will be over in just a few days. By releasing him now, Ngakoue can sign with a contender and chase a Super Bowl ring.
Yannick Ngakoue was a reliable pass rusher in his day, but the former third-round pick is well past his prime. While he doesn’t get after the quarterback too frequently, he’s a decent rotational player who can hold his own against the run. While he won’t singlehandedly power any team to a Super Bowl, he could be a valuable rotational piece for a team hoping to hoist the Lombardi Trophy.
Top 5 Fits For Yannick Ngakoue After Patriots Release, Ranked
5. Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers are playoff-bound, but they’ll need help to go on a deep playoff run. Head coach Jim Harbaugh has done a remarkable job of rebuilding this team in his first year, but they will still be underdogs if they face the Baltimore Ravens. Baltimore’s run game is second to none, and adding a reliable run defender like Ngakoue could help to slow down the thunder-and-lightning duo of Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson.
4. Los Angeles Rams
The Los Angeles Rams head to the playoffs with the inexperienced Kobie Turner and first-round pick Jared Verse leading their defensive line. While both players are phenomenal, they have little postseason experience. Yannick Ngakoue doesn’t have a Super Bowl ring, but the released veteran has been on some playoff teams in the past. His experience with January football combined with his actual on-field ability make him a smart add for a team trying to maximize the final years of Matthew Stafford’s career.
3. Baltimore Ravens
Yannick Ngakoue spent time with the Baltimore Ravens earlier in the season, so it only makes sense they re-sign him following his Patriots release. Kyle Van Noy and former first-round pick Odafe Oweh are a solid pass-rushing duo but this team could use another depth option. Given his familiarity with the defense, Ngakoue should be able to join the team and contribute right away.
2. Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs are peaking at the right time, having found answers for their needs at cornerback, wide receiver, and tackle. However, they still must do something about their edge defenders. The Josh Uche trade didn’t work out, so the reigning Super Bowl champions could throw a dart at Ngakoue. While his best days are behind him, he might be able to see the field in a situational role.
1. Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons might not fit the bill as a contender, but they are still alive in the playoff race. If they can win and the Buccaneers lose in Week 18, then they’ll make the playoffs with rookie quarterback Michael Penix leading the way. While the first-round pick has shown promise, nobody should count on him to win games by himself. The Falcons have the worst defensive line of any playoff hopeful, and Yannick Ngakoue might be able to start on this abysmal front four.
Main Photo: Mark Konezny – USA Today Sports
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