New England Patriots: 5 most intriguing players entering 2019 season

New England Patriots Chase Winovich (Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images)
New England Patriots Chase Winovich (Photo by Rey Del Rio/Getty Images) /
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New England Patriots Jamie Collins (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)
New England Patriots Jamie Collins (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images) /

Jamie Collins, LB

Any beef between Bill Belichick and Jamie Collins has apparently been squashed with the return of the versatile and athletic linebacker to the New England Patriots after a stint with the Cleveland Browns.

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Like safety Patrick Chung, Collins is rejoining the team and coach that drafted him with different expectations.  Sure, the former second-round pick played to an All-Pro level his first time around because being traded to the Browns, but this time around Belichick has a specific role for Collins and if he sticks to the game plan, the Patriots front seven will be that much better.

Following a solid spring and great preseason, Jamie Collins has continuously sparked praise from Bill Belichick which the veteran linebacker is embracing.

"“From him, man, that’s music to my ears, man.  It’s an honor to get that type of response from him, and I really do appreciate it,” Collins said of Belichick’s praise.  “That just makes me feel better and makes me want to come to work even more.”"

In joining a linebacker unit that includes Dont’a Hightower, Elandon Roberts, Kyle Van Noy and Ja’Whaun Bentley, Collins will make the second level of defense even that much more versatile and multiple for Belihcick.