The New England Patriots turned to a division rival for help restocking their defense, agreeing to a one-year contract with former New York Jets linebacker Brandon Copeland, according to multiple reports Sunday.
The Boston Globe first reported the agreement, which ESPN later termed a deal worth $1.05 million.
The 6-foot-3, 268-pound Copeland joins the Patriots during a free agency period in which they have already lost three linebackers to other teams, including Kyle Van Noy and Elandon Roberts (Miami Dolphins) along with Jamie Collins (Detroit Lions). All three players are joining former Bill Belichick assistants who now hold head coaching positions -- Brian Flores with Miami and Matt Patricia with Detroit.