NFL veteran linebacker Josh Uche signed a new contract with the Patriots. Uche has spent all four years of his NFL career with the New England Patriots.
The #Patriots have agreed to terms with LB Josh Uche to return to New England on a one-year deal, sources tell me and @RapSheet. The 2020 second-round pick had much more on the table elsewhere but returns to Foxboro. pic.twitter.com/zx7rVIyzjI
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 12, 2024
Josh Uche, New England Patriots, Agree to Contract
In the thick of the 2023 season, Uche found himself at the heart of a lot of trade rumors. After lighting up the stat sheet with an eye-catching sack total in the previous season, Uche’s numbers took a dip, landing him with just three sacks over the span of 15 games. But the raw stats don’t tell the whole story. Uche was still able to put pressure on quarterbacks and tweak his game to tackle the run more effectively. Still, with star pass-rusher Matt Judon out for the season, the team was looking to Uche to be the guy who can get to the quarterback. His 2023 campaign ended with an impressive pass rush win rate of 12.2%, showing he has the ability to beat his man; but with no Judon, Uche received the bulk of attention from opposing offensive lines.
#Patriots EDGE Josh Uche only has two sacks (11.5 in 2022). But Uche's quick-twitch movements are still all over the film, while he's working on being more disciplined on the edge.
Uche's pass-rush win rate this season (12.2%) is very similar to last season (12.8%). pic.twitter.com/nmxc52sb3H
— Evan Lazar (@ezlazar) December 21, 2023
From Setbacks to Sacks
Uche was selected 60th overall by the New England Patriots in the 2020 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, he faced challenges, including a foot injury that placed him on injured reserve in late September. Despite this early setback, he was activated in November and was able to make an impact. Uche recorded his first career sack during a Week 10 win over the Baltimore Ravens, highlighting his potential as a pass rusher. His season was eventually cut short with another injury causing him to miss the final game of the year.
In the 2021 season, Uche entered as a rotational outside linebacker and pass rusher for the Patriots. His role in the defense was expected to expand, but injuries continued to hamper his availability. Uche missed 5 games throughout the season including another stint on the injury reserve. Despite these challenges, his performances when healthy showed promise. He finished his second year with three sacks and eight pressures in just 12 games.
Fluke or Foundation Piece?
In 2022, Uche had himself a breakout season, putting his name on the map as a pass rusher. His season got off to a slow start with just three tackles to his name through the team’s first five games. Another bite from the injury bug had him sidelined for two games, but things shifted dramatically when he returned in Week Eight. Uche recorded his first sack in the win against the Jets and it ended up being a prelude to a series of dominant performances. He followed that game up with multiple sacks in three out of his next four games. Uche concluded the 2022 season with 11.5 sacks and 25 total pressures in just 15 games. He found himself tied for 12th-most sacks in the NFL, and just four behind Patriots star Matt Judon.
With his impressive closing stretch in 2022, Uche has shown the potential to be a valuable asset. While overcoming injuries has proven a challenge, his consistent development should give some optimism for his future. As he enters the next chapter of his career, Uche’s relentless pursuit of the quarterback and willingness to adapt his game make him a player worthy of excitement and one to watch in 2024.
Main Image: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports
