This evening, the Patriots officially announced the signings of two players, defensive end/outside linebacker Trevor Scott and former Jets reserve cornerback / special teams stud Marquice Cole. Cole is a new name, but here's what the Patriots' official release had to say on him:
Cole, 28, is a veteran of three NFL seasons with the New York Jets (2009-11). He originally entered the NFL as a rookie free agent with Oakland out of Northwestern in 2007. The 5-10, 192-pound Cole spent the majority of the 2007 season on the Tennessee practice squad before joining the 53-man roster for the 2008 season-finale but was inactive for the game. He spent the 2008 season on the practice squad of New Orleans and then began the 2009 season on the practice squad of the New York Jets before joining the 53-man roster early in September.
Cole has played in 37 NFL games with one start and has registered 14 defensive tackles, two interceptions with one returned for a touchdown and 45 special teams tackles. In his only NFL start vs. Buffalo (1-2-11), Cole finished with five solo tackles and two interceptions, including one that he returned 35 yards for a touchdown.
Interesting. Sounds like a player who should be able to compete for a spot on the 53 man roster due to his special teams capability. He could also has some potential as a reserve defensive back. Definitely a solid depth move, that doesn't have much risk to it.
According to ProFootballFocus.com, Cole played 51 defensive snaps in 2011 with the Jets, playing at a variety of spots, while allowing four completions in four targets. In 2010, Cole allowed nine completions in 17 targets while coming up with two interceptions in 135 total snaps played. He also has played some safety in the past.