The New England Patriots have reached an agreement with offensive guard Alijah Vera-Tucker on a three-year, $42 million contract, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
The deal, which reportedly includes incentives that could increase the total value to $48 million, marks a significant investment in the Patriots' offensive line. Vera-Tucker, 26, spent the first four years of his career with the New York Jets after being selected in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He is expected to take over at left guard for New England, allowing Jared Wilson to slide over to center following the team's recent trade of Garrett Bradbury to the Chicago Bears.
The addition of Vera-Tucker provides a high-upside protector for franchise quarterback Drake Maye, though the lineman comes with a notable injury history. He missed the entirety of the 2025 season due to a triceps injury and has struggled with availability throughout his career. However, when healthy, Vera-Tucker has proven to be one of the most versatile and effective interior linemen in the AFC East, having started at every position on the line except center.
This signing caps a busy first day of the NFL's legal tampering period for New England. Earlier on Monday, the team secured agreements with edge rusher Dre'Mont Jones and fullback Reggie Gilliam. The Patriots entered the offseason with nearly $60 million in salary cap space and a clear mandate from head coach Mike Vrabel to bolster the trenches after reaching the Super Bowl last month.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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