Josh Uche did experience free agency during the NFL’s legal tampering period, but in the end, he chose to re-sign for a $3 million, one-year contract with the New England Patriots. That felt like a huge bargain for a guy who was among the league’s most disruptive players on a per-rush basis the previous two seasons.
As it happened, Uche apparently had offers on the table that were significantly higher than the Patriots deal he ultimately signed. Even though it would have literally cost him millions, he would have chosen to rejoin the squad that gave him his professional debut.
But why would he take such course of action?
“The team that offered me a shot in the NFL was the Patriots.” It is comparable to family. In a social media video that the team posted, Uche said, “It feels like home and there’s nowhere else I’d rather be than home.” “So, I believe that love, family, and loyalty were my main motivations.”
After spending his college career at the University of Michigan, Uche arrived in New England as the 60th overall selection in the 2020 draft. While injuries limited his impact as an edge linebacker over his first two years in the league, and he registered only four combined sacks during his rookie and sophomore campaigns, he managed to deliver a breakout performance in Year 3.
Uche registered 11.5 sacks in 2022, showcasing his immense potential as a pass rusher. His production dipped again the following year, but he and the Patriots still wanted to continue their partnership — even if at a reduced cost compared to what other teams proposed.
His relationship with new head coach Jerod Mayo, who previously coached linebackers before getting promoted earlier in the offseason, also factored into the decision.
“Coach Mayo is developing a lot of tough young men, and I feel like it’s something I just want to continue to be a part of. I think it’s just going to be great. I think the future is bright,” Uche said.
“I’m just happy to be home and get back to doing what I do best.”
