The New England Patriots received some solid contributions from Jack Gibbens in 2025. Joining as a free agent, he ended up not just serving as a core special teamer but also the team\u2019s third linebacker behind Robert Spillane and Christian Elliss. As such, he saw extensive action and set himself up nicely for another trip to the market.<\/p>\n
While Gibbens converted it into a two-year, $7.5 million deal<\/a> with the Cardinals after not being tendered as a restricted free agent, the Patriots went in a different direction. What they found was a similar player albeit at a reduced cost: K.J. Britt joined New England on a one-year, $1.4 million deal<\/a>.<\/p>\n LB K.J. Britt: Contract details<\/p>\n Base value: $1,402,500 Guarantees: $687,500 2026 (age 27): Comparing Britt\u2019s contract with Gibbens\u2019, we can see that the Patriots are taking on a smaller cap charge in 2026\u2014 $1.26 million versus $3.73 million \u2014 but don\u2019t have control beyond the upcoming season. New England, meanwhile, has invested $687,500 in guarantees compared to the $4 million Gibbens received in Arizona.<\/p>\n The deal being cheaper and shorter are not its only aspects standing out. It also carries a salary cap hit that is below the base value. That is because Britt qualifies for the veteran salary benefit.<\/p>\n
Maximum value: $1,402,500<\/p>\n
Signing bonus: $187,500
Salary (2026): $500,000<\/p>\n
Base salary: $1,215,000
Signing bonus: $187,500
Salary cap hit: $1,262,500<\/p>\n