Defensive lineman Diego Paz has completed a two-day tryout with the New England Patriots, positioning the 23-year-old Spaniard as a candidate to become the third player from Spain to reach the NFL, according to reports published in Spain. The tryout at the franchise’s Foxborough facility follows a standout season in Europe’s professional ranks and brings the young defender a step closer to breaking new ground for homegrown European talent.
New England Patriots Give Diego Paz a Two-Day Look
Paz spent two days working out for the New England Patriots, six-time Super Bowl champions who currently sit at three wins and two losses in the NFL standings. The franchise brought the 23-year-old defensive lineman in to evaluate his potential fit as they look to bolster their pass rush and defensive depth. Injuries have tested the team’s front seven early in the season, leaving the door open for personnel evaluations.
My boy Diego Paz-Gonzalez worked out for the New England Patriots today! He is a Spanish Born player who absolutely crushed it on the @Rhein_Fire this year! The 23 year old pass rusher has plenty of interest! He is a gamer! pic.twitter.com/4jQlJO35uy
Following the workout, Paz shared his reaction on social media. “I am eternally grateful for the opportunity to have worked for the New England Patriots,” Paz wrote. “When I started playing four years ago, I never imagined I would achieve something like this at 23. This is just the beginning, it’s time to keep working.”
How Diego Paz Built His Resume in Europe
Born in Galicia and raised in Madrid, Paz plays defensive line and stands to become the first player born and formed entirely in Spain to crack the NFL. He spent the 2026 season playing for the Rhein Fire in Germany, where he earned the league’s most-improved player award in the European League of Football.
During that 2026 campaign, Paz accumulated 40 tackles, including five tackles for loss, alongside 8.5 sacks, four defended passes, and one interception. That production as a pass rusher caught the attention of NFL scouts tracking the league’s international player pathways.
Following in the Footsteps of Villanueva and Arcega
Before Paz’s tryout, only two players from Spain had ever appeared in a regular-season NFL game. Alejandro Villanueva played tackle in the league from 2014 through 2021, entering professional football after playing at Army without being selected in the draft. Wide receiver JJ Arcega-Whiteside followed a different path, arriving from Stanford as a second-round draft pick and playing in the NFL from 2019 to 2021.
Unlike Villanueva and Arcega-Whiteside, both of whom moved to the United States at a young age and played their college football in the American collegiate system, Paz developed his skills entirely through European club competition, making his trajectory a milestone for the sport’s expansion overseas.
Roster Realities and Defensive Needs in Foxborough
The Patriots coaching staff evaluated Paz against a backdrop of specific personnel shortages on the defensive front. The team is seeking additional pressure on opposing quarterbacks to complement a defense that has remained a strong unit despite heavy injury attrition. Edge rusher Harold Landry III is sidelined, and veteran Dre’Mont Jones sustained a hit during New England’s recent 45-17 victory over Las Vegas. Adding defensive line depth remains a priority for the front office as the grueling schedule continues.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diego Paz and the NFL
Has Diego Paz signed a contract with the New England Patriots?
No. Paz has only completed a two-day tryout with the franchise and has not signed a standard player contract or practice squad agreement.
Where did Diego Paz play professional football before trying out for the NFL?
Paz played for the Rhein Fire in the European League of Football during the 2026 season, winning the league’s most-improved player honors.
What position does Diego Paz play?
Paz plays as a defensive lineman, specializing in pass rushing and stopping the run.
Who were the previous Spanish players in the NFL?
Alejandro Villanueva played tackle from 2014 to 2021, and JJ Arcega-Whiteside played wide receiver from 2019 to 2021.
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