Foxborough, MA — The New England Patriots claimed Caleb Murphy off waivers just one day after the Los Angeles Chargers waived him. No picks, no trade—New England simply inherited his existing contract.

Under head coach Mike Vrabel, the Patriots’ pass rush is trending up. Through seven games in 2025, they have 18 sacks, a stark contrast to just 28 in all of 2024.

Murphy emerged from Ferris State (NCAA Division II). As a senior, he posted 24.5 sacks, breaking Terrell Suggs’ 24-sack benchmark.

Undrafted in 2023, Murphy first signed with Vrabel’s Titans as a UDFA. He later joined the

Chargers, working primarily on special teams and logging a half-sack vs. the Giants on Sept. 28.

After the Chargers moved on, New England put in a waiver claim and was

awarded Murphy. The Patriots gave up nothing in return and add immediate depth.

His projected role is a second-wave EDGE. Expect sub-rush usage, disciplined edge setting, and added pressure in select packages.

New England’s OLB/EDGE room already has frontline pieces. Murphy adds depth, instant special-teams value, and insurance if snaps open up.

“The Patriots are truly in a renaissance—I feel like they’re dominating the NFL,

” Murphy said. “I’m grateful to the Patriots for believing in me at my toughest moment. I want to give everything—and, if possible, finish my career here.”

Tactically, Murphy fits Vrabel’s versatile rotations. Stunts, twists, and simulated pressures can manufacture clean 1-on-1s for him to exploit.

Foxborough won’t demand instant stardom. They want a player who nails his role at the right moment—and Caleb Murphy now has that chance.