NFL Free Agency is officially here, and the next few days will feature several New England Patriots rumors. The Patriots have already made several big moves and might not be done yet. With that in mind, here are a few of the more interesting rumors and news tidbits on the Patriots.
New England pursuing Chris Long
The Patriots' search for depth along their defensive line has led them to former Rams defensive end Chris Long, according to Mark Daniels of the Providence Journal:
The Providence Journal has learned that the Patriots are showing interest in the eight-year veteran, who is the son of Hall of Famer Howie Long and a former No. 2 overall draft pick. The 30-year-old Long made three sacks last season in St. Louis, where he’s spent his entire career.
ong had a great run from 2010 to 2013, making 41.5 sacks during that period. Long has also drawn interest from Dallas, Washington and Atlanta. Talking with SiriusXM NFL Radio,
Long said he already visited Atlanta and Washington and has a few more visits lined up. This veteran is in no rush to make a move.
"I want to go to a team that's going to be in the playoffs," Long said. "It's all about football and winning for me."
Long had 19 tackles with three sacks last season.
Patriots linked to James Laurinaitis
Another name that has come up on New England's radar is former Rams linebacker James Laurinaitis, and he took a visit to the Patriots, according to multiple reports. The Pats are looking for a third linebacker after Jerod Mayo announced his retirement, and Laurinaitis certainly fits that mold. He had 109 tackles, one interception, and one forced fumble last season.