NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo sent an odd tweet. Josh Uche, an edge rusher, had accepted a one-year contract and had better offers elsewhere, according to Garafolo, who announced that the Patriots had reached an agreement on a new contract with him.
On Twitter/X, Garafolo wrote: “Sources tell me and @RapSheet that the #Patriots and LB Josh Uche have agreed to terms to return to New England on a one-year deal. The second-round pick in 2020 returns to Foxboro despite having far more options available to him elsewhere.
Now, via Tom Pelissero, Garafolo’s NFL Network colleague, come more specifics on what Uche left on the table to remain with the Patriots.
Josh Uche had multiple offers, one of which was for $15 million spread over two years with a complete guarantee of $11 million. However, his heart was in New England, so he decided to come back for less—a $3 million, one-year contract with a $8 million option. Rarely does a player decide everything without pursuing financial gain, according to Pelissero.
Although Uche’s desire to stay in New England is not surprising, it is surprising that he gave up so much opportunity for financial gain in order to do so. Although it’s clear that the Patriots like Uche, they also realize that he needs to find a way to play more frequently on the field than only when the offense is passing the ball.
Uche participated in 15 games in the previous season, although his sack total fell sharply from 11.5 in 2022 to 3.0. In addition to playing less snaps than in 2022—his total dropped from 374 to 331—his QB hits decreased from 14 to six.
