The New England Patriots are once again adding depth through solid veteran players without breaking the bank to do so.
Late Saturday afternoon it was learned that New England signed former Indianapolis Colts WR Anthony Gonzalez to a contract whose terms have no been disclosed. Gonzalez, a first round pick out of Ohio State in 2007, has had three successive seasons cut short by injuries after having solid rookie and sophomore campaigns catching passes from Peyton Manning.
Gonzalez was placed on the season ending IR in both 2009 and 2010 and only saw action in 8 games in 2011. When healthy the 27-year old slot receiver is extremely dangerous. The low risk, high reward signing is insurance for the team in case WR Wes Welker decides not to report to camp and he adds depth behind Welker should the Pro Bowler either sign his franchise tender or get a long term deal.
The Gonzalez signing could also possibly push Julian Edelman to the other side of the ball. Edelman, a quarterback in college that New England converted to wide receiver, has played several games in the secondary and has shown a penchant for playing on that side of the ball.
In addition to Gonzalez, the Patriots also signed free agent defensive end/outside linebacker Trevor Scott, formerly of the Oakland Raiders. The 27-year old Scott reportedly received a one-year contract. The Potsdam NY native played his college ball for University of Buffalo and was a 6th round pick by Oakland in the 2008 NFL Draft.
Scott went on the IR in November of 2010 with a torn ACL and although he played in all 16 games in 2011 the injury still hampered him. At 6 foot 5, 255 pounds Scott has the versatility to play the line or as a linebacker and he could fill the role that Mark Anderson played last season or if Anderson returns he provides more depth at two positions.
The Patriots are also reportedly taking a visit this weekend from former Washington Redskins safety LaRon Landry who is reported to be high on Bill Belichick’s wish list.
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Photo credit: AP Photo
