Patriots Add Ngakoue, Adjust Roster for Bears Game

The New England Patriots have bolstered their struggling defensive line by claiming former Pro Bowl edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue off waivers from the Baltimore Ravens. Ngakoue, who has 70.5 career sacks, is expected to provide much-needed pass-rushing support to a Patriots defense that ranks fourth-worst in the NFL for sacks this season. Despite interest from other teams like the Cincinnati Bengals, New England's waiver priority allowed them to acquire Ngakoue, though he won't be active for the upcoming game against the Chicago Bears. The Patriots have also elevated tight end Mitchell Wilcox and linebacker Joe Giles-Harris for the Bears game, while rookie Jaheim Bell's role remains uncertain. New England's earlier trades of pass rushers Matthew Judon and Joshua Uche have contributed to their current defensive challenges.