New England Patriots: Linebacker David Harris becomes latest veteran ring chaser
By Matty Simo
Former New York Jets linebacker David Harris is another AFC East defector trying to win his first Super Bowl ring with the New England Patriots in 2017.
Last year, it was defensive end Chris Long and tight end Martellus Bennett who were notable veterans chasing their first Super Bowl ring with the New England Patriots. On Wednesday, linebacker David Harris became the latest free-agent signing for the defending Super Bowl champs. Harris was released by the New York Jets two weeks ago as part of a roster overhaul.
Former Jets LB David Harris has reached agreement on a two-year deal with...the New England Patriots, source tells ESPN.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 21, 2017
ESPN’s Adam Schefter was the first to report the news about Harris signing with New England. Schefter also noted via Twitter that Harris is the latest AFC East defector who decided to join the eight-time defending division champions.
Patriots keep stockpiling from AFC East: LB David Harris, CB Stephon Gilmore, RB Mike Gillislee, WR Chris Hogan.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 21, 2017
Next: Matt Patricia Starting Over With Defense in 2017
The Patriots are getting a linebacker who has totaled more than 100 tackles in four of the past five seasons for the Jets. In fact, his streak of four consecutive years with over 100 tackles ended in 2016 when he finished with 95.
Harris has also accumulated 35.5 sacks in 10 seasons. New England fans might remember him for his first postseason interception in the 2011 playoffs, as New York pulled off a 28-21 upset in the Divisional Round.
A month ago, wide receiver Andrew Hawkins signed with the Pats in a similar move. Both Hawkins and Harris are on the wrong side of 30 years old. But both believe they have something left and can help the Pats repeat as Super Bowl champs. Apparently, Bill Belichick does too.