According to ESPN’s Dianna Russini and Adam Schefter, the New England Patriots and defensive tackle Terrance Knighton have agreed on a one-year-deal worth $4.5 million. The Patriots have made a splash this offseason, which is not something they are necessarily known for. The signing of Terrance Knighton is the latest off-season move the Pats have made and it has potential to be the most significant one.
Strong interior defensive line play is a role the Patriots have been looking to fill since the departure of Vince Wilfork. Akiem Hicks and Sealver Siliga signing with new teams during this free agency period left the Pats with a hole in the middle of their defense. They showed interest in Nick Fairley but were not able to come to an agreement, soon after Fairley became a Saint the Patriots focus shifted to Terrance Knighton.
Knighton is joining the already stout New England front and will most likely spend the majority of his time playing alongside Chris Long, Jabaal Sheard, and Alan Branch. That being said New England is known for playing a variety of fronts, it would not be surprising to see Knighton play a role as a nose tackle or even kicked out as a three-technique. He is a good enough athlete to play in all of these fronts which is something the Patriots place a high value on. It would be safe to assume Knighton is going to be fitting into the Patriots system in a Vince Wilfork type role. He will be able to play in multiple spots and use his strength inside to help provide a formidable run defense. The Patriots will hope to see Knighton draw double teams leaving room for their linebackers and other pass rushers to make plays. With his exceptional size and strength it is a perfect fit. He has been successful in this type of role throughout his career and New England will look to see that success translate.
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