Jared Wilson selected 95th overall by the New England Patriots in the 2025 NFL Draft, boosting their defensive depth immediately.

The New England Patriots continued their focus on building a strong, competitive defense by selecting Jared Wilson with the 95th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Wilson, a talented and versatile defender, was a standout during his college career, and now he’s poised to bring his skills to the professional level.

The Patriots’ selection of Wilson highlights their commitment to rebuilding and reinforcing a defense that has always been a cornerstone of their success. With this move, New England hopes to add not just another player, but a future leader capable of contributing immediately.

A Look at Jared Wilson’s College Career

Jared Wilson made a name for himself as a dominant force during his college football career. Playing at one of the top programs in the country, Wilson showcased elite skills that made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. Whether defending the run, dropping into coverage, or pressuring quarterbacks, Wilson proved he was capable of doing it all.

Wilson’s athleticism stands out. At 6-foot-2 and around 225 pounds, he possesses the ideal size and speed combination that NFL scouts covet. Over the course of his college career, Wilson racked up tackles, sacks, pass breakups, and even a few interceptions, demonstrating just how versatile he is.

In his final college season, Wilson recorded career highs in tackles and tackles for loss, while also serving as a team captain — a testament to his leadership qualities both on and off the field. His motor, physicality, and instincts made him one of the more underappreciated but highly respected players in this year’s draft class.

Why the Patriots Drafted Jared Wilson

New England’s decision to select Jared Wilson wasn’t a surprising one for those closely following their pre-draft process. The Patriots have always valued versatile defensive players who can adapt to a variety of schemes and situations. Wilson fits that mold perfectly.

Head coach Jerod Mayo and the Patriots’ front office emphasized throughout the offseason that they wanted defenders who could play multiple roles and adjust to different styles of play depending on the opponent. Wilson’s ability to line up at multiple linebacker spots, contribute in coverage, and blitz effectively made him a perfect fit for their evolving defense.

“He’s a tough, smart football player who loves the game,” Mayo said after the pick. “That’s exactly the kind of guy we want in our locker room. Jared brings an edge and a work ethic that we value a lot.”

Moreover, Wilson’s leadership skills were a big selling point. With the Patriots looking to build a new culture under Mayo, bringing in players who are respected leaders at the college level is crucial to establishing a strong locker room dynamic.

How Wilson Fits into New England’s Defense

Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Wilson projects to be a key contributor for the Patriots’ defensive unit. Initially, he might not be thrust into a full-time starting role, but he is expected to be a rotational player who can step into various sub-packages.

New England’s defense thrives on versatility, often blending 3-4 and 4-3 looks depending on the matchup. Wilson’s ability to cover tight ends, chase down running backs, and blitz from different angles means he could be used all over the field.

Defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington will likely find creative ways to put Wilson in positions to succeed. Whether it’s on special teams to start or rotating in during obvious passing downs, Wilson has the chance to carve out a role early on and grow into a larger presence as he gains NFL experience.

Additionally, given the Patriots’ recent investments in young defensive backs and linemen, adding a linebacker like Wilson helps round out the core of their young defense moving forward.

Scouting Report: Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

• Versatility: Can play inside or outside linebacker roles.
• Athleticism: Quick enough to cover tight ends and running backs.
• Tackling: Wraps up well and rarely misses open-field tackles.
• Leadership: Team captain with high football IQ and work ethic.
• Blitzing Ability: Times his blitzes well and can disrupt the pocket.

Areas for Improvement:

• Play Recognition: Occasionally bites on misdirection plays; something that can improve with NFL coaching.
• Coverage Consistency: While athletic enough to cover, he will need to refine technique against elite NFL receivers.
• Bulk/Strength: Could add a few pounds of muscle to better handle NFL-level offensive linemen in run support.

Overall, the scouting profile for Wilson suggests a player with high upside and minimal risk, particularly considering he was picked late in the third round.

The Patriots’ Overall Draft Strategy

Wilson’s selection fits perfectly into a broader pattern of smart, targeted picks the Patriots have made throughout the 2025 Draft. The focus appears to be on players who bring versatility, leadership, and a high motor — traits that reflect the identity Mayo wants to establish as head coach.

New England has also looked to address offensive needs earlier in the draft, but clearly prioritized solidifying their defense in the middle rounds, which is where many future starters are often found. Historically, the Patriots have done well with third-round defensive picks, and Wilson could very well continue that tradition.

Building through the draft has always been a key part of New England’s philosophy, and bringing in a player like Wilson who is eager to prove himself at the next level only strengthens their chances of returning to playoff contention in the coming years.

What This Means for Jared Wilson

For Jared Wilson, getting selected by the New England Patriots is a dream come true. He now gets the opportunity to join one of the NFL’s most respected franchises, one known for developing defensive talent and giving young players chances to earn meaningful roles early in their careers.

“I’m so grateful for this opportunity,” Wilson said during a post-draft interview. “To be picked by the Patriots — a team with such a great tradition — means everything to me. I can’t wait to get to work, learn from the coaches, and help the team however I can.”

Wilson will now enter rookie minicamp with the goal of proving himself and earning the trust of the coaching staff. His competitiveness, drive, and football IQ suggest he has the tools necessary to make an early impact and carve out a significant role within the defense.

His path won’t be easy — nothing in the NFL ever is — but if his college career is any indication, Wilson is more than up to the challenge.

Conclusion: A Perfect Fit?

Selecting Jared Wilson with the 95th pick looks like a smart, strategic move for the Patriots. Wilson brings the combination of physical talent, mental toughness, and leadership skills that New England values highly. His versatility fits seamlessly into the Patriots’ defensive philosophy, and he has the potential to become a cornerstone player for years to come.

For Wilson, joining the Patriots offers an excellent opportunity to grow under a defensive-minded head coach in Jerod Mayo, develop alongside other young stars, and help rebuild a proud franchise. If he can transition his college success to the NFL level, there’s no doubt he could become a major piece of New England’s future defensive identity.

As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Wilson to see how he adapts and contributes. Early signs suggest that the Patriots may have found another mid-round gem — a player with the drive, character, and ability to make a lasting impact.