The Patriots were aggressive in free agency this offseason.
But a few familiar faces in New England might still find their way back to Foxborough.

6 Patriots Free Agents Who Could Still Return to New England

The New England Patriots have already made several big moves during the early stages of the 2026 NFL free agency period, adding multiple new players to strengthen their roster.

However, the team may not be done bringing back some familiar faces from last season.

Even after releasing or allowing several players to enter free agency, the Patriots still have roster holes to fill at offensive tackle, wide receiver, and defensive line. As the free agency frenzy slows down, the organization could turn its attention inward.

Here are six former Patriots players who could still re-sign with New England before the 2026 season begins.

Stefon Diggs (WR)

One of the biggest surprises of the offseason was the Patriots’ decision to release Stefon Diggs.

The veteran wide receiver was actually one of the team’s most productive offensive players in 2025. Diggs finished the regular season with:

85 receptions
1,013 receiving yards
4 touchdowns

He also contributed in the postseason with 14 catches for 110 yards and a touchdown.

Despite that production, the Patriots decided to move on due to Diggs’ age, rising contract cost, and off-field concerns. Cutting him before June 1 allowed the team to save $16.8 million in salary cap space.

Still, Patriots executive Eliot Wolf recently hinted that the door might not be fully closed.

“I wouldn’t say the door’s closed,” Wolf said. “We’re going to look through every way we possibly can to help improve the team.”

While unlikely, a reunion with Diggs can’t be completely ruled out.

Jack Gibbens (LB)

Linebacker Jack Gibbens quietly became an important piece of the Patriots defense last season.

The 24-year-old defender stepped up when starter Robert Spillane went down with injury and finished the season with:

43 solo tackles
8 tackles for loss
3 quarterback hits
1 sack
1 forced fumble

Gibbens also played a significant role on special teams, appearing on 64% of special teams snaps.

Another factor working in his favor is his familiarity with Mike Vrabel’s defensive system, as he previously played under Vrabel with the Tennessee Titans.

That familiarity could make him an attractive option if New England looks to add depth at linebacker.

Thayer Munford Jr. (OT)

The Patriots could still use additional depth on the offensive line, and tackle Thayer Munford Jr. remains available.

Munford appeared in five games during the 2025 season, starting two of them. Although his playing time was limited, he provided reliable depth along the line.

The former Ohio State standout has appeared in 46 career NFL games with 18 starts, including experience at both tackle spots.

That versatility could make him a logical candidate for a return.

Yasir Durant (OT)

Another offensive lineman who could potentially return is Yasir Durant.

Durant rejoined the Patriots last year after spending time with the UFL’s DC Defenders, but his season was derailed by injury.

He suffered an injury early in training camp and was placed on injured reserve, preventing him from appearing in any games during the 2025 season.

Still, Durant has prior experience with the Patriots, having originally joined the team in 2021 via trade from the Kansas City Chiefs.

Jaquelin Roy (DT)

Defensive tackle Jaquelin Roy is another name to watch.

Roy spent time with the Patriots during the 2024 season and appeared in six games, recording 17 tackles and two sacks.

However, he was placed on injured reserve during the 2025 preseason, which kept him from contributing last year.

At just 24 years old, Roy still offers developmental upside along the defensive line.

Deneric Prince (RB)

Running back Deneric Prince is another intriguing possibility.

Prince never saw the field for New England after signing with the team in 2025 due to injury, but he showed promise in the UFL with the Memphis Showboats, where he totaled:

337 rushing yards
110 receiving yards
2 touchdowns

He also provides value as a special teams contributor, something the Patriots have always prioritized when filling out their roster.

Patriots Could Look Familiar as Free Agency Slows

While the Patriots have already added several high-profile players this offseason, the roster is still evolving.

With free agency cooling down and fewer marquee players remaining on the market, bringing back former contributors could become an increasingly attractive option.

And if that happens, a few of these familiar names might soon be returning to Foxborough.