The New England Patriots have signed linebacker Harold Landry to a three-year, $43.5 million deal, which includes $26 million guaranteed, according to sources. The move reunites Landry with former Tennessee Titans head coach Mike Vrabel, who took over as the Patriots’ head coach this offseason. Landry, a talented pass rusher, played under Vrabel from 2018 to 2023 and has strong ties to the region, having played college football at Boston College.
Patriots Strengthen Defense with Landry Amid Aggressive Strategic Shift Under Williams
Landry’s arrival comes as the Patriots transition to an aggressive defensive approach under new defensive coordinator Terrell Williams. Williams, who previously served as the Titans’ defensive line coach, worked with Landry for several years in Tennessee. The Patriots aim to create pressure on opposing offenses by playing on the opposite side of the line of scrimmage, a philosophy that aligns with Landry’s skill set as a disruptive edge rusher.
Harold Landry (NFL)The Tennessee Titans released Landry on Friday after failing to finalize a trade despite granting his agents permission to seek one. Landry, 28, was one of the team’s most productive defenders, leading the Titans with nine sacks last season.
He also recorded 15 tackles for loss and 15 quarterback hits in 17 starts. His consistent production made him a sought-after free agent, particularly for a Patriots team looking to improve its defensive front.
Landry’s Comeback and Patriots’ Roster Moves Strengthen Team for Vrabel’s New Era
Before his release, Landry had signed a five-year, $87 million contract with the Titans in 2022, but he suffered a torn ACL during the preseason, causing him to miss the entire year.
He bounced back in 2023, finishing with 10.5 sacks, the second-highest total on the team. Landry has been a reliable pass rusher throughout his career, producing at least nine sacks in three consecutive seasons, including a career-best 12 sacks in 2021, which earned him a Pro Bowl selection.
Landry, originally a second-round pick (41st overall) in the 2018 NFL Draft, started 79 of 98 career games for the Titans and has amassed 50.5 career sacks. In addition to signing Landry, the Patriots also reached a one-year, $5 million deal with two-time Pro Bowl tight end Austin Hooper, which could reach $7 million with incentives. These moves indicate New England’s intent to strengthen both sides of the ball as they enter a new era under Vrabel.
