Patriots 2016 Free Agency Yes/No: Dekoda Watson

Jan 3, 2016; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; New England Patriots outside linebacker Dekoda Watson (53) rushes as Miami Dolphins tackle Branded Albert defends and quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) prepares to throw in the first half at Sun Life Stadium where the Dolphins defeated the Patriots 20-10. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Innerarity-USA TODAY Sports /

You probably haven’t heard of New England Patriots linebacker Dekoda Watson. But since he’s about to enter free agency, we’re going to talk about him on this Monday morning.

(Be sure to check back on Musket Fire each day for analysis on all of the Patriots’ free agents in which we answer the question of whether or not the Patriots should re-sign said player.)

Watson’s third stint on the active roster this season proved to be the charm, as he got action in the Divisional Round against the Kansas City Chiefs. Before that, he had been cut in training camp, re-signed in the middle of September and then cut again a few weeks later.

In the Chiefs game, Watson was solid filling-in for an injured Chandler Jones at defensive end, and he was also instrumental in Danny Amendola’s big fourth quarter punt return, for which he earned praise from Bill Belichick.

All in all, the six-year veteran appeared in regular season games against the Buffalo Bills, Jacksonville Jaguars and Miami Dolphins before suiting up in each of the Patriots’ playoff games.

From the Dekoda Watson vault:

Patriots sign Dekoda Watson to fill roster spot

Patriots kick-off in 41 days: Profiling No. 41 Dekoda Watson

Considering that Watson’s services aren’t exactly in skyrocketing demand on the open free agent market, the Patriots don’t need to take an aggressive approach with Watson. He sat on the couch for the better part of three months before the Patriots came calling amid the rash of December injuries.

That being said, the Patriots should keep a close eye on the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dallas Cowboys and Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker. He is very fast for his position and versatile on both settled defense and special teams.

Don’t be surprised if Watson eventually gets a small, one-year deal from the Patriots. But if some other team swoops in, the Patriots won’t be that much worse for wear.

Next: 10 Long-term positives from Patriots’ 2015 season

Check back on Musket Fire tomorrow morning as we ponder the free agency situation of veteran running back Steven Jackson.

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