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FOXBOROUGH – K’Lavon Chaisson always believed in himself – even when the production wasn’t what he expected.
That’s why last season was so important to this veteran pass rusher.
In 2020, Chaisson was a first-round pick, selected 20th overall, by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Over his first four seasons, the LSU product finished with five sacks in his first four seasons. That led him to Las Vegas in 2024.
Last season, despite a slow start, Chaisson finally showed his potential. In the final six games, he finished with a career-high five sacks. The outburst of production led him to sign a 1-year, $5 million deal with the Patriots this offseason.
“Man, just getting the opportunity to produce and play,” Chaisson said of his performance last season. “I think that was just kind of the biggest thing that I was excited about and looking forward to being in that position, so I’m thankful. And being a part of a prestigious league that’s the NFL, you have to be able to show out and take advantage of those opportunities regardless of how the season is going.
“So, I knew that each opportunity I got, I had to take it for granted. I’m super thankful that I got a chance to do that in Vegas and now I’m in the perfect spot here.”
The Patriots brought Chaisson in, where he reunites with his former Jaguars head coach Doug Marrone, to help their pass rush. Last year, the Patriots finished last in the NFL in sacks (28). The leading pass rushers in New England were Keion White and Deatrich Wise. Both finished with five sacks – the same amount Chaisson totaled in the final six games last season.
Chaisson entered the NFL as a raw, but athletic prospect with a high upside. He didn’t play varsity football in high school until his senior year. He only played two seasons at LSU due to a torn ACL during his sophomore season. After chasing his NFL dream, he said the success he had last season – after starting the season on the Raiders practice squad – showed him that he could do it.
“I do think it’s a great confidence establishment, for sure. That you’re able to contribute to this league and perform at a high level,” Chaisson said. “Just how I originally thought I’d be able to contribute to this league. It’s a great chance to be a part of and something I don’t take for granted.”
Chaisson said that every year he not only “progressed and matured” but tried to build off different teachings from his different coaches. He also had help from teammates. Chaisson also credited playing with 4-time Pro Bowler Maxx Crosby for helping him last season.
He said he plans on learning from new teammate Harold Landry this year.
“Let’s not forget the tremendous talent that Maxx Crosby is on the other side as well. I think that was a tremendous boost,” Chaisson said. “Now, getting a chance to rush with Harold, who’s had multiple double-digit sack seasons in the NFL. That’s not something that is easy or you take for granted.”
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That’s why last season was so important to this veteran pass rusher.
In 2020, Chaisson was a first-round pick, selected 20th overall, by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Over his first four seasons, the LSU product finished with five sacks in his first four seasons. That led him to Las Vegas in 2024.
Last season, despite a slow start, Chaisson finally showed his potential. In the final six games, he finished with a career-high five sacks. The outburst of production led him to sign a 1-year, $5 million deal with the Patriots this offseason.
“Man, just getting the opportunity to produce and play,” Chaisson said of his performance last season. “I think that was just kind of the biggest thing that I was excited about and looking forward to being in that position, so I’m thankful. And being a part of a prestigious league that’s the NFL, you have to be able to show out and take advantage of those opportunities regardless of how the season is going.
“So, I knew that each opportunity I got, I had to take it for granted. I’m super thankful that I got a chance to do that in Vegas and now I’m in the perfect spot here.”
The Patriots brought Chaisson in, where he reunites with his former Jaguars head coach Doug Marrone, to help their pass rush. Last year, the Patriots finished last in the NFL in sacks (28). The leading pass rushers in New England were Keion White and Deatrich Wise. Both finished with five sacks – the same amount Chaisson totaled in the final six games last season.
Chaisson entered the NFL as a raw, but athletic prospect with a high upside. He didn’t play varsity football in high school until his senior year. He only played two seasons at LSU due to a torn ACL during his sophomore season. After chasing his NFL dream, he said the success he had last season – after starting the season on the Raiders practice squad – showed him that he could do it.
“I do think it’s a great confidence establishment, for sure. That you’re able to contribute to this league and perform at a high level,” Chaisson said. “Just how I originally thought I’d be able to contribute to this league. It’s a great chance to be a part of and something I don’t take for granted.”
Chaisson said that every year he not only “progressed and matured” but tried to build off different teachings from his different coaches. He also had help from teammates. Chaisson also credited playing with 4-time Pro Bowler Maxx Crosby for helping him last season.
He said he plans on learning from new teammate Harold Landry this year.
“Let’s not forget the tremendous talent that Maxx Crosby is on the other side as well. I think that was a tremendous boost,” Chaisson said. “Now, getting a chance to rush with Harold, who’s had multiple double-digit sack seasons in the NFL. That’s not something that is easy or you take for granted.”
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