With the New England Patriots having all but locked up a playoff spot, linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson is nearing a return to the postseason for the first time since the 2022 campaign when he was with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Chaisson is also approaching another big offseason, as he’ll be a free agent after inking a one-year deal with the Patriots in March.
ESPN.com senior NFL writer Bill Barnwell included the 26-year-old on his list of players and coaches with the “most at stake” ahead of the playoffs in an article published Thursday.
“Chaisson’s one-year, $3 million deal has been a bargain for the Patriots, and a raise should be coming this offseason. Will that be in New England? And will it involve a multiyear guarantee?” Barnwell said. “Chaisson is still only 26 and didn’t play much for stretches of time in Jacksonville, so there’s less wear and tear on his body than other players entering the seventh season of their pro careers. This is his best chance at landing a significant contract, and if Chaisson continues to play this way through the end of the season, he won’t lack options in free agency.”
Despite missing New England’s Week 5 upset of the Buffalo Bills due to a knee injury, Chaisson has already registered a career-high 6.5 sacks, which ranks second on the team. He’s also second on the Patriots in quarterback hits (15) and tackles for loss (eight), both of which are the highest marks in his six NFL seasons.
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With defensive tackle Milton Williams on injured reserve, Chaisson has and will continue to be a crucial part of New England’s defense this season.
