FOXBOROUGH – Josh Uche would love to remain in New England, but understands if he’s ultimately on another team come next season.
The fourth-year edge rusher entered this summer in the final year of his contract. Last season, Uche finished with a career-high 11.5 sacks to go with 14 quarterback hits. The Patriots linebacker came into the year with just four total sacks in the NFL.
Another big season this fall would likely land Uche a massive pay day. On Thursday, he said that his agents have talked to the Patriots about an extension, but is uncertain if it’ll happen in New England.
“This is the team that developed me into the player I’ve become,” Uche said. “This is the place I’ve called home the last four years. I’m comfortable. I know the area, I’ve got family out here, and I love it out here. And I’ve been able to make myself at home. And I would love to be here.”
“But at the end of the day, I understand it’s a business, and business is business. So, no hard feelings, I guess.”
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Uche helped create a dominant pass rush in Foxborough last season along with Matthew Judon (15.5 sacks) and Deatrich Wise (7.5 sacks). The trio had more sacks (34.5) than six other NFL teams – Cleveland Browns, Green Bay Packers, Cincinnati Bengals, Las Vegas Raiders, Atlanta Falcons and Chicago Bears
In the end, Uche would like to remain in Foxborough, but also understands if it doesn’t happen. The 24-year-old said it’s been important for himself to focus on what he can control. That means trying to improve every day at practice and not get worked up with a potential contract.
“They’ve been in communication,” Uceh said. “I just didn’t want to worry myself with the details. I just let (my agents) handle all the little stuff and just come out here and work each day.”
“Wherever I’m wanted, wherever I’m needed, I’m willing to work,” Uche added. “Wherever I may be, god willing it’s here, I’ll just give it everything I got.”
