Patriots sign Chris Long to reported 1-year deal
The New England Patriots are signing defensive end Chris Long, the player confirmed Tuesday.
ESPN's Trey Wingo reports it's a one-year deal.
This is an opportunity and I am so thankful!!! Whatever it takes!!! See you soon Boston. GO PATS 👊🏻
— Chris Long (@JOEL9ONE) March 16, 2016
Long recorded 19 tackles, a forced fumble, and three sacks in 12 games last season with the Rams. However, he was released Feb. 19.
The veteran defensive end was ostensibly signed to replace Pro Bowl defensive end Chandler Jones, who was traded Tuesday to the Arizona Cardinals in exchange for guard Jonathan Cooper.
Long was selected second overall in the 2008 NFL Draft and emerged as a cornerstone of the Rams' defense over the past eight seasons.
Known for his pass-rushing acumen, Long joins a ferocious Patriots front seven that recorded 49 sacks in 2015, the second-best total in the NFL.
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