Even if it was largely expected, the departure of New England Patriots linebacker Kyle Van Noy in unrestricted free agency on Monday still hurts all the same.
According to Bleacher Report’s Mike Chiari, Van Noy agreed to terms on a four-year deal with the Miami Dolphins that is worth $51 million.
It’s a massive payday for Van Noy, who was an afterthought for most of his initial career with the Detroit Lions before a midseason trade to the Patriots a little over three years ago did wonders for his reputation. Since being acquired by New England and falling under the tutelage of Bill Belichick, Van Noy has established himself as one of the most versatile, dependable defensive players in the NFL.