Brown and Jacobs were both exclusive rights free agents.
The New England Patriots have locked up some familiar offensive line depth for another year.
Exclusive rights free agents Ben Brown and Demontrey Jacobs have both agreed to terms on new deals with the club. Brown’s one-year pact will carry a value of $1.03 million with Jacobs’ worth $960k.
Joining the team off of the Las Vegas Raiders’ practice squad last October, Brown was immediately thrown into the fire as the starting center in Drake Maye’s rookie debut. The 26-year old went on to start 10 games at center for the Patriots before missing the final two games with a concussion.
With starting center David Andrews attempting to return this season, Brown, who came to New England with experience at guard, will likely battle for a top interior backup spot along the offensive line.
Jacobs, 26, was one of four players claimed off waivers during last year’s roster cuts down day. Expected to serve in a depth role, the tackle went on to receive his first ever NFL snaps in relief in Week 3 before going on to start the rest of the season with 11 starts at right tackle and two at left tackle.
New England is expected to upgrade their offensive tackle position this offseason, leading to Jacobs battling for a spot on this year’s roster.
Brown and Jacobs join defensive lineman Jeremiah Pharms and wide receiver JaQuae Jackson as pending free agents who received new contracts with the team this offseason. The Patriots currently have 12 players left that are set to hit free agency, with cornerback Alex Austin the lone remaining ERFA.