{"id":874013,"date":"2026-04-25T02:18:23","date_gmt":"2026-04-25T02:18:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/874013\/"},"modified":"2026-04-25T02:18:23","modified_gmt":"2026-04-25T02:18:23","slug":"nick-saban-says-exactly-what-patriots-fans-want-to-hear-about-gabe-jacas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/874013\/","title":{"rendered":"Nick Saban says exactly what Patriots fans want to hear about Gabe Jacas"},"content":{"rendered":"

After a successful Round 1 for the New England Patriots, it was clear what they needed to target on Day 2: edge rushers and tight ends. Both were considered the weakest parts of the roster, and, unfortunately, that applied to many teams around the league as well.<\/p>\n

That led to a run of pass rushers well before the Patriots were on the clock, prompting them to slightly overpay in a trade up from No. 63 to 55 to ensure <\/a>they got a pass rusher of their own. They were able to select Gabe Jacas out of Illinois, who was considered the last Day 1 starter available, and the more fans hear about him, the better they feel about the pick.<\/p>\n

Besides being immediately impressed with his college career, the overwhelming praise for the pick by analysts really brought it home for those who might have initially doubted the Patriots.<\/p>\n

Better yet was hearing from legendary college football head coach Nick Saban, who had nothing but praise for what Jacas can do<\/a>, including his versatility that the Patriots will love.<\/p>\n

“I think Gabe is a really good edge guy. This guy is a relentless competitor in terms of the way he plays, with effort and toughness. Does he play outside ‘backer or defensive end? That’s the question.”<\/p>\n

Nick Saban is a big fan of what the Patriots’ latest draft pick can do on the field<\/p>\n

As if it wasn’t already good enough that the Patriots got their next pass rusher, knowing that he also has the skills to play multiple positions<\/a> makes it even easier to get excited about what he will do for this team in 2026 and beyond.<\/p>\n

Jacas will have the chance to fill multiple roles ahead of his rookie season, and he will surely carve a role for himself on the defensive line that will suit him best.<\/p>\n

His impressive college career, recording 43 combined tackles, 13.5 for a loss, three forced fumbles, and 11 sacks last season, will make a significant difference to what Mike Vrabel has built in just one season as New England’s head coach. <\/p>\n

Jacas fits the identity he wants for the group moving forward, and his pass-rushing production, along with his run-stopping ability, will make him a superstar in no time. <\/p>\n

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