Elijah Ponder prepares for larger role with Patriots in second NFL season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 12:10 AM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026
Elijah Ponder, a defensive edge for the New England Patriots, is set to take on a bigger role in his second season. After signing as an undrafted free agent in 2025, he contributed significantly as a rookie with four sacks and was praised for his agility and explosiveness. The Patriots have relied on Ponder as the depth chart has shifted, particularly with injuries impacting veteran players. His continued development and performance in training camp will be crucial ahead of the upcoming season.
- •Ponder is 24 years old, standing 6'2 7/8" and weighing 261 lbs.
- •He registered four sacks and three fumble recoveries in 19 games last season.
- •Ponder was a standout at Cal Poly before joining the Patriots as a rookie.
- •He is expected to contribute more defensively after an injury to a starting edge rusher.
- 12:10 AMYahoo Sports — Patriots scouting report: Elijah Ponder is an explosive athlete on the edge
"Previewing the Patriots edge defender heading into his second NFL season.
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