Linebacker Pisa Tinoisamoa visited the New England Patriots today according to an NFL source. The Chicago Sun-Times, which first reported the visit, indicated that the veteran free agent could land a starting role with the Chicago Bears, but was not offered a contract after visiting the team last week.
Tinoisamoa has been busy making trips to visit clubs after being released by the St. Louis Rams May 8th. He first visited the Buffalo Bills and has been connected as a possibility for the Philadelphia Eagles.
At 6-1, 240-pounds, Tinoisamoa lead the Rams in tackles last year with 104. The 27-year old is looking to land a starting role after turning in a career best season in 2008.
Tinoisamoa could be viewed as a possible solution at outside linebacker for the Patriots who were unable to land Jason Taylor via free agency and are reportedly interested in acquiring Derrick Burgess from Oakland. Though some reports indicate Tinoisamoa could be Mike Vrabel’s replacement at one outside linebacker spot. Vrabel was known for his ability to get to the pass as well as hold the point of attack on running plays. Tinoisamoa doesn’t have prototypical outside linebacker size. Vrabel is three inches taller and 20-25 pounds heavier than Tinoisamoa.
Another possible (and morelikely) solution would be to have Tinoisamoa play inside on downs Tedy Bruschi isn’t playing. Though Tinoisamoa’s contract demands may preclude any part-time role the team may envision.
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