The New England Patriots are navigating a busy offseason filled with rumors and high-profile pursuits, keeping a close eye on their own restricted free agents, including linebacker Jack Gibbens. Set to enter restricted free agency, Gibbens’ status is crucial as the Patriots consider whether to place a tender on him before the market opens, aiming to retain his services amid ongoing roster decisions.
Gibbens gained significant playing time last season after signing a modest one-year contract worth $1.3 million. Originally brought on as a backup linebacker and special teams contributor, he exceeded expectations by playing in 17 games and showcasing versatility and reliability, especially when stepping in for injured starter Robert Spillane.
Performance and Role of Jack Gibbens Last Season
During the previous season, Jack Gibbens emerged as an important defensive presence for the Patriots. He tallied 81 tackles, recorded one sack, deflected four passes, and forced a fumble. His contributions were particularly notable late in the year when Spillane was sidelined due to injuries. Gibbens assumed the starting linebacker role and acted as the defensive communicator, wearing the “green dot” helmet to lead on-field adjustments.
This unexpected increase in responsibility highlighted his value to the team. Gibbens’ ability to step up under pressure demonstrated his readiness and made him a key figure as the Patriots evaluate their linebacker depth heading into free agency.
Options Available to the Patriots Regarding Gibbens’ Contract
As a restricted free agent, Gibbens can receive one of three types of tenders from New England: a first-round tender, a second-round tender, or a right-of-first-refusal tender. Each tender comes with a different price and level of compensation rights for the Patriots. This offseason has seen a significant rise in tender costs, leading many NFL teams to avoid tendering some players, instead opting to let them become unrestricted free agents or to finalize contract extensions beforehand.
The Patriots have yet to negotiate an extension with Gibbens, leaving tendering as their most viable option to secure his return. The likely choice is the right-of-first-refusal tender, which will cost the team $3.52 million this offseason. This tender would allow New England to match any offer sheet Gibbens might sign with another team, offering some control over his future while they continue contract discussions.
Insider Insights on the Patriots’ Plans for Gibbens
ESPN Patriots insider Mike Reiss has provided the latest information about the team’s approach to Gibbens’ free agency. Reiss expects a decision soon and suggests that the team is unlikely to let go of the linebacker who filled in admirably during the late part of last season.
“Clarity should be coming this week with Patriots restricted free agent linebacker Jack Gibbens,”
Reiss wrote.
“It’s hard to imagine the Patriots walking away from the valuable Gibbens, who stepped in for injured starter Robert Spillane down the stretch as the primary communicator wearing the green dot on his helmet, so the right-of-first-refusal tender would be the likely target.”
– Mike Reiss, ESPN Patriots Insider
Implications of the Tender Decision on the Patriots’ Linebacker Depth
Placing a tender on Jack Gibbens would reflect the Patriots’ desire to maintain stability and depth at the linebacker position. His strong performance during spillover starts and special teams play earned him significant trust from coaches and teammates alike. Losing him without compensation could weaken the Patriots’ defensive roster, especially as they continue to pursue marquee players such as wide receiver A.J. Brown to bolster their offense.
Deciding to tender Gibbens now, ahead of free agency, signals that New England views him as a critical piece of their defense moving forward. While a long-term extension remains the ideal scenario for both sides, the tender provides a mechanism to prevent the team from losing a reliable contributor without a fight.
Quick-hit thoughts/notes around the Patriots and NFL (one viewpoint on why TE could be team's top target; A.J. Brown; Christian Gonzalez; decision due on LB Jack Gibbens; taking stock of Patriots' 20 draft picks over next 2 years; NFL combine drills etc.)https://t.co/58xW3MKKXc
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) March 8, 2026
