Patriots sign John Lynch

[.GR]

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- One day after visiting New England, former Denver Broncos safety John Lynch has reached a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Patriots, according to a source.

Lynch, 36, was released by the Broncos, who wanted to re-adjust his role this season. After talking to coach Mike Shanahan, the Broncos gave him a chance to land elsewhere. The Patriots were the perfect fit.

Belichick became interested in Lynch after losing safety Tank Williams for the season because of a knee injury. Williams was expected to be used 10-to-25 plays a game in certain defensive packages that needed a hard-hitting safety.



"I still have a great passion for the game of football," Lynch said after being released by the Broncos. "I still very much love it in my heart. I still feel like I can compete at a Pro Bowl level, but the situation is going to have to be right. I'm not going to just play for any team or any situation."

Lynch, who spent his first 11 seasons with Tampa Bay, played every snap in Denver's last three games last season, but earlier he was taken out on passing downs.

John Clayton is a senior writer for ESPN.com. The Associated Press contributed to thsi report.

 

[playmaker7]

Should probably put quotes around it, looks neater and shows that you didnt write it

But Im happy that John Lynch is on a good team, always liked this guy

 

[vikesfan]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsBBBD0WCJ8

 

[A.E]

I f*cking hate this deal. One of my favorite players of all time...say it ain't so John.

Why does New England always lock these guys up at the ends of their careers?

I just can't figure out why if John Lynch wasn't happy with his role in Denver, he would sign with New England. He's bound to play that same role within the New England Defense that Shannahan had him slotted to play in the Dever Defense.