Nick Saban Has One Big Question About Patriots' Second-Round Draft Pick originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Nick Saban is a fan of one of the Patriots' top draft picks -- but he has a question.

New England traded up in Round 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft to select Illinois linebacker Gabe Jacas with the 55th overall pick. A physical, relentless edge rusher, Jacas addresses a major need for the Patriots, who struggled to generate pressure from the edge last season.

Saban offered his own analysis of Jacas during ESPN's coverage of the draft.

"I think Gabe is a really good edge guy," Saban said, as transcribed by ESPN's Mike Reiss on X. "This guy is a relentless competitor in terms of the way he plays, with effort and toughness. Does he play outside 'backer or defensive end? That's the question."

Reiss also transcribed a quote from ESPN draft analyst Field Yates.

"He has some 'wrestler' in his game," Yates said. "This guy takes defending the run as seriously as he does rushing the passer ... but he can get after the quarterback as well; not the kind of guy who is going to win with an explosive first step. He has a very refined pass-rush arsenal, though."

Time will tell whether Jacas plays outside linebacker or defensive end. He also could struggle to earn a role early in the season if he isn't ready to play consistently against the run. But the Illinois product has the talent to emerge as a difference-maker down the road.

More NFL: Mike Vrabel Reportedly Returns To Patriots After Quick Counseling Break