The Patriots signed offensive lineman Ben Brown to a two-year contract extension on Tuesday, a source confirmed.
The deal is worth up to $6.6 million.
“I just think Ben exemplifies everything that we want in this building, this program and cares deeply about the team,” head coach Mike Vrabel said Tuesday. “Plays multiple positions, is a great teammate, plays with effort and finish and tries to work and improve and find a role for himself here. Excited to have him.”
Brown, 27, joined the Patriots at midseason last year and was immediately thrust into a starting role for 10 games at center.
Brown has been a valuable fill-in as a backup at guard and center this season, starting two games in place of rookie Jared Wilson at left guard. He’s played 206 total snaps this season, also playing as an eligible jumbo tight end.
“That’s invaluable,” starting center Garrett Bradbury said of Brown’s versatility. “You need guys that can play multiple spots. You need smart football players. I think that’s with Coach McDaniel’s offense, that’s the biggest thing. And he’s played before, and he does a great job. He knows what he’s doing, and that’s half the battle, right? Just everyone being on the same page. And I think he’s a center by trade, so he kind of sees the game through a center’s eyes, so he can help with communication when he’s in there.”
The Ole Miss product began his career as an undrafted free agent with the Bengals in 2022. He’s also spent time with the Seahawks, Cardinals and Raiders.
Brown has yet to sack this season. He’s allowed two QB hits and four hurries in 103 pass-blocking snaps over six games.
Brown will likely earn another start Sunday against the Jets with Wilson in concussion protocol.
