Willie McGinest as a Patriot...again?

by MaPatsFan on Jul 1, 2009 10:41 PM EDT

I must own up to a soft spot for Willie McGinest. Joining the Cleveland Browns for the 2006 season, Willie spent 12 years prior on the Patriots. He was a monster at OLB, in the prime of his career and eating dirt long before Belichick arrived. He paid his dues and when he got his rings and decided to cash in, I had no problem with that. He deserved every good thing that came to him because he always gave everything to us fans.

Chris Gasper of The Boston Globe reports:

A source close to McGinest said today that the veteran linebacker would like to return for a 16th season and maintains a relationship with Patriots coach Bill Belichick, but there have been no formal talks aimed at bringing McGinest back to New England and no offer from the Patriots.

Willie is the man, no doubt. But this would largely be a sentimental move. Think Troy Brown and ask yourself, "Would Willie McGinest be good for the team?"

Poll

Should Belichick bring back Willie McGinest?

Yes

533 votes

No

147 votes

680 votes | Poll has closed

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Comments

Seeing a lot of votes for yes...

But I’m not seeing any explanations why?

I hate to say this, but I’m not sure he has much to offer at this point. Perhaps he could help mentor some of our younger guys, but that’s about it. As far as production goes, I don’t think he would offer enough to warrant a roster spot. We’re on a youth movement on defense, and this would be a step backwards.

If this were Willie in his prime, it would be a no-brainer. As it is, I think he goes on our shadow roster.

by NESilver on Jul 2, 2009 12:58 AM EDT reply actions

Hope not

I like McGinest a lot, but I don’t hope to see him on this years team. It would mean deep trouble – either caused by injuries or by inefficiency – on defense.

by hythlodaeus on Jul 2, 2009 2:36 AM EDT reply actions

I'll always love Willie

The only way I can see him back in a Patriots uniform is if (knock on wood) the Patriots are as decimated by injuries as they were in 2008. Otherwise, I don’t see it happening.

Belichick has been open to special opportunities involving players in the past – Flutie’s pooch kick, Testaverde keeping his streak going, Troy Brown’s return… even John Lynch getting to play in one last game before he retired even though it was just a pre-season game. But this is a different animal involving a valuable roster spot and a player that’s not currently on the team (even though he knows the system.)

Keep the faith!

by Marima on Jul 2, 2009 7:51 AM EDT reply actions

We need him !!!

The more leaders the better , No more Vrabel and maybe i just heard on the NFL channel that Bruski maybe not want to play this year ? No JR also !! We need a Leader on the other side of the ball. Willie would be a great fix and he still has some Gas in the tank !!!

by Faststang on Jul 2, 2009 11:25 AM EDT reply actions