Patriots to Sign Two-Time Super Bowl Champion Linebacker

The New England Patriots are reuniting with a familiar face from their glory years. ESPN's Mike Reiss announced the team would be signing two-time Super Bowl champion Jamie Collins.

The Patriots are expected to sign LB Jamie Collins, per sources.

There are dual options for them to bring him aboard initially - active roster or practice squad - but he is anticipated to join the team in some capacity.

Patriots eyeing improved LB play.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) October 3, 2022

Collins last played with the Patriots in 2021, appearing in 10 games and notching 20 total tackles, one sack, and an interception. The Patriots defense has struggled in recent weeks, allowing a staggering 387 rushing yards over their last two games, both of which were losses. He'll likely absorb some snaps from Jahlani Tavai and Mack Wilson.

News story: Jamie Collins proves that players can go home again. And again. And again. And again. https://t.co/hrePbdHabi
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) October 3, 2022

Collins rejoins the Patriots for his fourth stint since initially being drafted 52nd overall by the team in 2013. The linebacker began his career as an explosive, play-making force, winning a championship in 2014 and earning his first and only Pro Bowl in 2015. The Patriots surprisingly traded Collins in 2016 ahead of free agency, and he played 30 forgettable games for the Cleveland Browns before finding his way back to the Patriots in 2019 and resuscitating his career with career-highs in sacks (seven) and interceptions (three).

Collins' comeback earned him another big contract with the Detroit Lions, where he played 16 games before yet again signing with the Patriots following his release in 2021. The Patriots had hoped to move forward with youth at the linebacker position this offseason, but evidently, they haven't liked what they've seen.