Pats talking to Thomas

[Bobby O'Shea]

Just what the Pats needed another old linebacker...

The New England Patriots met with free-agent linebacker Zach Thomas at Gillette Stadium today. The meeting went well enough that the Patriots made an undisclosed offer to Thomas.

The NFL Network's Adam Schefter first reported the offer to Thomas.

The 34-year-old Thomas has played his entire 12-year career with Miami. A seven-time Pro Bowler, he was limited to just five games last season due to concussions and migraines



Bobby O

[BangTheBook]

I am surprised at this move, why get another old linebacker. If one thing is for sure the Pats need some youth on defense they cant keep scheming to cover up there age.

[nflman]

They only seem to be adding experienced players to the linebacker positions. The linebackers are the nerve center of the defense and the only position on defense where experience is key.

The defensive line does one thing - RUSH THE QB - or try to get a hand on the runner or the ball as it goes over their heads. Experience won't help you much there. Cornerbacks and safeties need healthy legs and learn to play the zone properly. Another position where experience isn't especially important.

I see the line of thinking, but out of all of the experienced linebackers in the league, Zach Thomas is the one I wouldn't want due to recurring injuries. Perhaps they think they can condition him better than his last coach did and keep him on the field? That's the best I can do to understand the Patriots and I'm not saying that I'm right about it.

[Bobby O'Shea]

The Saints have offered him a contract and it looks like the Cowboys are going to take a look too--I am interested to see where Crumpler (TE) goes from the falcons, he is a great offensive tight end....

Bobby O