Jason Taylor to take Vrabel's OLB spot? This blip is pure speculation, but it originates in Florida, not NE. http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/reiss_pieces/2009/03/taylor_made_for.html With an obvious opening at outside linebacker and need for an experienced pass rusher after trading Mike Vrabel, the Patriots make sense as a possible destination for Jason Taylor, a six-time Pro Bowler and the NFL's active career sack leader with 120.5 sacks. Taylor and his agent, Gary Wichard, have been mum on the subject of Taylor's plans since his release, but David Hyde of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel says New England is the obvious landing spot for Taylor. Toss in Taylor's long-time bromance with Patriots quarterback Tom Brady -- the two are friends off the field -- and Hyde seems to have a strong case. http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/columnists/sfl-flsphyde11sbmar11,0,1485933.column Enter New England. They have a history of signing aging stars ( Rodney Harrison, Junior Seau, Fred Taylor ?). Patriots coach Bill Belichick openly respected Taylor in their Dolphins meetings, as did Brady, for the simple reason Taylor was one of the few opponents to treat the quarterback like a throw pillow. Taylor even has the blessing of Belichick's crony in crustiness, former Dolphins coach Nick Saban. Remember Saban's line on Taylor? "If he played in this defense his whole career, he'd be in the Hall of Fame." Right there are two reasons why this marriage works for Taylor. The first part, the obvious part, is New England again will be a top contender, assuming Brady returns to form. But this defensive system is one Taylor already starred in, which is key in free agency. The Hall of Fame, too, is one of the toppings Taylor could achieve in New England. He's a borderline case now, often compared to expected shoo-in Michael Strahan. The Giants' defensive end had seven Pro Bowls and 141.5 sacks. Taylor has six Pro Bowls and 120.5 sacks.
Wouldn't scare me. His best days are behind him and he's been a bandaid as of late. Fin fan reactions would be pretty funny to read though.
Pats might sign him if his price is right,otherwise they are on the verge of getting younger at the aging LB spot. Vrabel and Izzo gone, Bruschi may be next. Draft another stud ILB next to Mayo and they are young at the position again. Guyton is a kid to watch this year also.
Yeah, the Jets have always neutralized Taylor! Since 2001 vs the Jets he's played 14 Games, with 15 Sacks and 68 Tackles.
