Patriots’ Second-Round Pick Holds Out as Contract Negotiations Continue

The New England Patriots are facing a familiar situation in the NFL as they navigate contract negotiations with their draft picks. Following a trend that has emerged over the past few seasons, Gabe Jacas, the team's second-round selection at 55th overall, has yet to finalize his contract. This development echoes the recent experiences of other second-round draftees across the league.

Last year, the Cincinnati Bengals made headlines when first-round pick Shemar Stewart nearly opted to return to Texas A&M due to protracted contract disputes. As of now, many second-round choices from 2025 are holding out from their obligatory mini-camps and OTAs, as agents push for more favorable contract terms. The Cleveland Browns have previously set a precedent by fully guaranteeing the contracts of their second-round picks in the same year.

TreVeyon Henderson, the Patriots’ second-round pick in 2025, was the last player from his draft class to sign, eventually finalizing his deal on July 19 with a fully guaranteed four-year contract. This year, the 28th overall pick, Caleb Lomu, has already signed with New England, leaving Jacas as the sole holdout from this year’s draft class.

Jacas is likely aiming for a deal similar to his fellow second-round picks, some of whom have secured contracts with significant guarantees. Edge rushers T.J. Parker and R Mason Thomas, selected prior to Jacas, both received fully guaranteed contracts. Meanwhile, other second-rounders from the 50s who have signed have done so with about 80-90% of their contracts guaranteed. It is anticipated that Jacas will reach an agreement soon, potentially mirroring the terms secured by his peers.

This ongoing situation reflects a wider trend within the league, where negotiations between teams and rookie players are becoming increasingly complex and contentious.