Patriots, Inspiring Defender Agree To Multi-Year Contract Extension

The Patriots on Monday rewarded an unsung player who carved out a role for himself in New England.

New England is set to sign Jeremiah Pharms Jr. to a two-year contract extension, as confirmed by his agency, Overtime Sports Management Group. Pharms has been with the Patriots since mid-July 2022 when he joined the organization after playing one season in the now-defunct United States Football League.

It’s been quite a football journey for Pharms, who spent time with three colleges before he pursued a professional career. The 28-year-old went undrafted in 2020 and played a season in an indoor football league before transitioning to the USFL. Pharms was placed on the practice squad upon joining the Patriots and didn’t make his NFL debut until the 2023 campaign, in which he played 12 games.

But last season was the true breakout for Pharms, who played in all but one of New England’s contests and even logged five starts. He recorded 33 total tackles, five quarterback hits, four tackles for loss and two sacks in 2024.

By sticking with the Patriots, Pharms has the opportunity to take his game to new heights and beyond starting in 2025. New England’s new defensive coordinator, Terrell Williams, is renowned for his work with defensive linemen and could turn the Patriots’ front seven into a vaunted group this season.