Patriots sign LB Adalius Thomas, TE Brady, RB Morris
FOXBORO, MASSACHUSETTS(TICKER) —The New England Patriots have seriously upgraded their linebacking corps.
The Patriots on Saturday landed arguably the best defensive player on the open market, signing linebacker Adalius Thomas.
Terms were not disclosed, but multiple reports have Thomas inking a six-year deal.
Thomas, 29, spent his first seven seasons with the Baltimore Ravens. He registered a career-high 11 sacks this past season and has 28 1/2 the past three campaigns.
In coach Bill Belichick’s 3-4 defensive scheme, Thomas likely will line up at outside linebacker. The Patriots also have Tedy Bruschi, Rosevelt Colvin and Mike Vrabel in what now is a deep linebacking corps.
“Personally and professionally, we are very impressed with Adalius Thomas,” Belichick said. “His playmaking, toughness, intelligence, versatility and character were all factors in our decision to pursue him.”
Thomas has 371 tackles, 38 1/2 sacks, six interceptions, 31 passes defensed, 13 forced fumbles and five recoveries in 96 career games.
The Patriots on Saturday also signed tight end Kyle Brady and running back Sammy Morris. Terms of the deals were not disclosed.
A 12-year veteran, Brady spent the last eight seasons with Jacksonville. The 35-year-old likely will replace Daniel Graham, who is an unrestricted free agent.
Brady, noted for his blocking, had five catches for 37 yards in 16 games last season. He has 334 receptions for 3,449 yards and 23 TDs in 183 career contests.
Morris, 29, could serve as the replacement for Corey Dillon, who was released on Friday. Laurence Maroney now is the clear-cut starter in New England at running back.
Morris spent the last three seasons with Miami. He rushed for 400 yards and one touchdown in 12 games this past campaign.
In 94 career games, Morris has rushed for 1,469 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also has played with Buffalo in his career.
