Patriots reportedly nearing reunion with LB Jamie Collins

By Jesse Reed

·Updated: May 15, 2019

The New England Patriots traded linebacker Jamie Collins to the Cleveland Browns back in 2016 due to a contract impasse. Now they are close to a reunion.

Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports the two sides are in talks to bring Collins back to New England.

While the #Jets are subtracting, the #Patriots are adding: New England is in talks with free agent LB Jamie Collins that would bring the former 2nd round pick back to the team that made him a star. They traded him in 2016, likely bring him back in 2019.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 15, 2019

The Browns released Collins in cost-cutting move this offseason.

During his four years in New England, Collins developed into one of the league’s most dynamic linebackers. He continued to rack up tackles, sacks and interceptions in Cleveland. Over the course of his career, he has tallied 494 tackles, 17.5 sacks and seven interceptions.

The Patriots certainly could use an upgrade at linebacker. And Collins has a good history of excelling in Bill Belichick’s system. So this is a natural fit.