The First Move After the Patriots’ Devastating Super Bowl Loss – Signing Futures Contracts with Two Former 2025 Practice Squad Players

Foxborough, Massachusetts — Just days after the New England Patriots fell 29–13 to the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX, the organization has made its first official moves of the offseason. As preparations for the 2026 campaign begin, the Patriots signed offensive tackle Sebastian Gutierrez and running back Elijah Mitchell to futures contracts, officially bringing both players into their offseason plans.

The signings were announced Tuesday afternoon and mark the opening steps in roster construction following a season that showed significant growth but ultimately ended short of a championship.

Both Gutierrez and Mitchell spent time on New England’s practice squad during the 2025 season. By signing futures deals, they are now under contract for 2026 and will participate fully in offseason workouts, training camp, and roster competition heading into next season.

Sebastian Gutierrez – Depth and Experience Up Front

Gutierrez brings versatility and league experience to the Patriots’ offensive line room. Originally entering the NFL as an undrafted free agent with the Denver Broncos, he has spent time with the Las Vegas Raiders, Kansas City Chiefs, San Francisco 49ers, Cleveland Browns, and Indianapolis Colts.

Though his regular-season appearances have been limited — one game with the Raiders in 2022 and one with the 49ers in 2024 — his familiarity with multiple systems and his size give New England valuable depth at the tackle position as the team continues to build around its young core.

Elijah Mitchell – A Familiar Name with Production

Mitchell may be the more recognizable addition. Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2021, he made an immediate impact during his early years in the league. Over three seasons in San Francisco, Mitchell rushed for 1,523 yards and nine touchdowns, establishing himself as a reliable contributor when healthy.

For the Patriots, Mitchell provides experienced depth behind a running back room that already showed promise last season. His familiarity with NFL game speed and ability to contribute in both rushing and passing situations adds competition and insurance at a key offensive position.

The State of the Running Back and Tackle Rooms

New England saw strong production from its backfield in 2025, powered by veteran Rhamondre Stevenson and rookie TreVeyon Henderson. Stevenson rushed for 603 yards and seven touchdowns, while Henderson led the team with 911 rushing yards and nine scores. Both backs also contributed as receivers, giving the offense flexibility in different formations.

At tackle, rookie Will Campbell started 13 games before injuries impacted him late in the year, showing flashes of long-term potential. Veteran Morgan Moses provided stability on the opposite side, allowing just one sack over 17 games. Adding Gutierrez strengthens competition and provides depth heading into a demanding 2026 schedule.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The Patriots experienced noticeable growth last season, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. While the Super Bowl loss was disappointing, it does not appear to have slowed the organization’s long-term vision.

By locking in familiar practice squad contributors early in the offseason, New England is emphasizing continuity, depth, and internal development. With the sixth-toughest projected schedule in 2026, roster stability and veteran experience could prove critical.

The offseason is just beginning in Foxborough — and these futures signings represent the first step in shaping what the Patriots hope will be a stronger, more resilient team next fall.