As the 2019 league year began, so did Mike Pennel’s visit with the New England Patriots.
The former Green Bay Packers and New York Jets defensive tackle signed on March 14. And on a two-year pact worth up to $8 million, with $500,000 guaranteed, Pennel projected to fill the snaps lost when starter Malcom Brown exited New England in the hours prior.
Projections changed.
Pennel saw his addition met by more. The fifth-round draft selection of Byron Cowart followed in April. The return of Danny Shelton became official in May. Making a case in the summer periphery were David Parry, Ufomba Kamalu and Nick Thurman.