According to multiple reports, safety John Lynch has agreed to terms with the
New England Patriots. The veteran safety was released by the Denver Broncos on
August 1, 2008. Lynch visited the Patriots on Tuesday and reportedly took a physical
for the team on Wednesday.
Lynch, 36, asked Broncos head coach Mike Shanahan for his release last month.
The veteran defender felt that the Broncos weren't the right fit for his services
and wanted a chance to go to a place that may be better suited for his skills.
According to team insiders, Lynch wasn't ready to accept a reduced role to remain
with the team.
A Pro Bowl caliber player, Lynch wasn't just pursued by the Patriots, the Jets
also expressed interest a source told the Boston Globe.
Lynch is expected to fill in at the same role veteran safety Tank Williams
played during the first part of training camp. Williams lined up at inside linebacker
to provide an increased level of run support. Williams' size and speed provided
him with the versatility to play inside or to drop into coverage as needed.
A solid run support specialist himself, Lynch has the ability to take up the
role Williams held. It is a similar role Patriots current safety Rodney Harrison
held last season.