Patriots Second‑Round Pick Gabe Jacas Remains Unsigned While Recovering From Procedure

The delay keeps a projected primary edge contributor off the field and raises short‑term questions about New England’s pass‑rush depth.

Overview

Gabe Jacas is the only Patriots draftee not to sign a rookie contract and did not attend the team’s mandatory minicamp on Tuesday because he is not under contract.
Coach Mike Vrabel confirmed that Jacas recently underwent a procedure and linked that medical issue to his absence from practices.
Jacas missed the NFL Combine and Illinois’ Pro Day with a pre‑draft hamstring problem and later held a private workout before the Patriots selected him 55th overall.
The rookie also missed rookie minicamp and portions of OTAs this spring, meaning he will need to catch up on on‑field reps and playbook work before he can contribute.
The Patriots say they are in regular contact, are not frustrated, and expect the situation to be resolved; it remains unclear whether contract negotiations play a role given a league trend of some second‑rounders delaying deals.