The Patriots are loading up on defense.
In addition to signing pass-rushing threat Matt Judon to a four-year deal and defensive tackle Davon Godchaux to a two-year deal, New England is also adding defensive back Jalen Mills on a four-year deal worth $24 million, according to his agent.
Mills, nicknamed the “Green Goblin” for his hair, has spent his five NFL seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles. In 2017, he recorded three interceptions in 15 games as the Eagles played their way to a Super Bowl LII matchup against the Patriots. Philadelphia won, 41-33.
Last year, Mills started 15 games and ranked second on the team in tackles with 74, including five quarterback hits.
He expressed his excitement for his new contract on Twitter.
Mills is a versatile defensive back, with experience at both cornerback and safety. He joins Stephon Gilmore, Devin McCourty, Kyle Dugger, Adrian Phillips, Jonathan Jones, and Patrick Chung in the secondary, while J.C. Jackson (restricted) and Jason McCourty (unrestricted) are set to hit free agency.
Other Patriots signings:
- Patriots to sign tight end Jonnu Smith to four-year, $50 million deal to kick off NFL free agency
- Patriots to sign linebacker Matt Judon to four-year deal
- Patriots to sign free agent DT Davon Godchaux to two-year deal
This story will be updated.
Katie McInerney can be reached at katie.mcinerney@globe.com. Follow her on Instagram at @katiemac.sports. Nicole Yang can be reached at nicole.yang@globe.com. Follow her on X @nicolecyang.