While the NFL world was buzzing with trade deadline drama, the New England Patriots quietly made a bold move that could shape their defensive future. But here’s where it gets intriguing: instead of making a splashy trade, they brought in three free-agent defenders for tryouts just days before their showdown with the Buccaneers. Linebackers Andrew Farmer and D.J. Johnson, along with defensive lineman Viliami Fehoko, were in Foxborough to showcase their skills, though none secured a deal—at least not yet. And this is the part most people miss: these tryouts reveal the Patriots’ strategic focus on bolstering their defense, even as they fine-tuned their practice squad by adding wide receiver Brenden Rice in place of running back Jonathan Ward.
Let’s dive into these players’ backgrounds, because their stories are as compelling as they are varied. Andrew Farmer, just 25, burst onto the NFL scene as a rookie free agent with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2023. The Lane College standout appeared in eight games, contributing on both defense and special teams with three tackles. However, his journey hit a snag when the Chargers released him before his second season, leaving him to spend 2024 on the Denver Broncos’ practice squad without seeing any game action. Could the Patriots be his second chance?
D.J. Johnson, 27, brings a different kind of experience to the table. Drafted in the third round by the Carolina Panthers in 2023, he logged 31 games for the team, racking up nearly 900 snaps on defense and special teams, along with 62 tackles, a fumble recovery, and a half sack. But here’s the controversial twist: despite his solid résumé, the Panthers released him in late September 2025 after his defensive snaps declined. Is this a case of untapped potential, or a sign of diminishing returns? The Patriots might just have the answer.
Then there’s Viliami Fehoko, 25, a fourth-round pick by the Dallas Cowboys in 2023. Despite his draft pedigree, Fehoko never broke into the Cowboys’ defensive line rotation and was released midway through his second season. After a stint with the Washington Commanders, he found himself on injured reserve before being released in August. Could the Patriots see something in him that others missed?
Here’s the kicker: the Patriots currently have no open spots on their active roster or practice squad, which raises the question—are these tryouts a long-term play, or a strategic evaluation ahead of potential future moves? And this is where it gets controversial: with their defense already performing well, are the Patriots simply scouting for depth, or are they quietly planning a shake-up? As they prepare to face the Buccaneers in Tampa on Sunday, Nov. 9, at 1 p.m. ET, one thing is clear: the Patriots are thinking steps ahead. But what do you think? Are these tryouts a smart move, or a missed opportunity? Let’s debate it in the comments!
