New England Patriots Rumors: Linebacker Paul Worrilow on Team’s Radar?
With free agency approaching, the New England Patriots expressed interest in signing Atlanta Falcons linebacker Paul Worrilow.
The New England Patriots always have a backup plan and entering free agency, the team has reportedly expressed interest in linebacker Paul Worrilow.
According to Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald, the Patriots are one of four teams inquiring about the Atlanta Falcons linebacker who is set to become an unrestricted free agent when the league year begins on Thursday.
Patriots, Lions, Eagles and Colts have expressed interest in Falcons linebacker Paul Worrilow, per source.
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) March 4, 2017
The intensity of the Patriots interest may depend on how they feel things are going with Dont’a Hightower. While it is possible the team could sign both – adding depth to the linebacker group – it is more likely Bill Belichick already has his Plan B options already in place in case Hightower receives an overwhelming contract offer from another team.
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Worrilow could come cheap for the Patriots. The fifth-year linebacker had a rather forgettable fourth season with the Falcons. He only recorded 21 tackles in 12 games, which was far less than the 127, 143 and 95 tackles racked up in his first three seasons in the NFL.
The 26-year-old linebacker appears to need a fresh start and who better than the Patriots for that opportunity. With Barkevious Mingo also testing free agency, Worrilow’s ability to play special teams is something that would also intrigue the Patriots.
With teams like the Detroit Lions, Philadelphia Eagles and Indianapolis Colts also expressing interest, the Patriots will not enter a bidding war for the Delaware product, but could sell him on the team concept of winning. He could draw a similar contract offer like the one Shea McClellin received a season ago.
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It will be interesting to see how this all plays out. Will the team still pursue Paul Worrilow even if Hightower re-signs? Or is their interest just a Plan B option as mentioned above? Whichever the case, Worrilow could have a chance to play for the team who beat him in Super Bowl LI.