New England Patriots: The case for re-signing John Simon

The New England Patriots saw promise in outside linebacker John Simon in 2018, enough to give him another shot in 2019.

One team’s trash is another team’s treasure. At least that is how it always seems to work for Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots.

Is outside linebacker John Simon the next player to find his promise with the Patriots?

Well, after being released from the Indianapolis Colts and signed by New England towards the beginning of the season, the 28-year-old linebacker became a contributor on defense and special teams. As the season was capped off by a Super Bowl LIII victory, Simon could continue to build a role with the Patriots.

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As an unrestricted free agent, the hope is that he will return to the team that gave him another chance in the NFL.

"“There’s been some talks, and things look promising,” Simon said, via ESPN.com. “I’m not going to comment on a lot of that stuff right now, but I enjoyed my time playing for Bill [Belichick]. I think he’s a great coach and I’d definitely love to play for him again.”"

Like he did during his time with the Houston Texans, Simon showed an ability to be a hybrid linebacker who can both rush the passer and drop back in coverage. With shades of Rob Ninkovich, with more time in the system he can really morph into a value for the New England Patriots.

The case for re-signing

John Simon only recorded two sacks during his 11 games with the Patriots in 2018, but it is more the consistent pressure he created and his ability to be multiple that increases his value in a Bill Belichick defense.

With a high motor and energy to do whatever the coaching staff asks him to do, Simon can be a poor man’s Mike Vrabel or at least serve the same type of role as Ninkovich. It is certainly worth a try for a player who has proven he can be a factor in the defense and on special teams.

As far as money goes, a one or two-year deal should definitely be affordable for a player who is out to prove himself again. He certainly won’t demand the three-year, $13.5 million deal he earned with the Indianapolis Colts following two solid seasons in Houston.

Potential landing spots

Any team would be looking to sign players away from the defending Super Bowl champions. The Miami Dolphins due to Brian Flores will always be a contender for New England Patriots free agents. Given the fact that John Simon played for him, the potential of that union is there.

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And speaking of Mike Vrabel, the Tennessee Titans are in need of an outside linebacker. After signing two former Patriots players last year during free agency, wouldn’t be a surprise if the Titans raid the cabinet once again. Vrabel did coach Simon in Houston and could take a shot at him in free agency.

In the NFC, a team like the Atlanta Falcons could be a fit for John Simon if he can’t work out a deal to remain a member of the New England Patriots.

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