According to reports from Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston.com and Mary Paoletti of CSNNE, the New England Patriots have agreed to terms with veteran free agent defensive tackle Gerard Warren.
Warren, 33, has spent the last two seasons with the Patriots after spending the first nine years of his career with the Browns, Broncos, and Raiders. In 2010, Warren was a starter at left defensive end for the Patriots, playing 16 games with 10 starts, and recording 28 tackles and 3.5 sacks. Last season, Warren played in more of a reserve role at defensive tackle, recording 12 tackles and a sack. However, Warren saw his role increase in the playoffs when the Patriots switched back to the 3-4, recording seven tackles in three games.
While he is far from an elite player at this point in his career, Warren is still a solid player and big body who can contribute in the Patriots defensive line rotation and get after the quarterback occasionally. If the Patriots are in the 4-3, Warren can be a contributor as a defensive tackle in sub-packages and in the base. When the team goes to the 3-4, he can play just about any position along the defensive line.
While Warren isn't a guarantee to make the final roster, his signing is a solid move for the Patriots, as he adds experience and depth to the Patriots defensive line. His spot on the roster could come down to a competition with fourth year defensive lineman Ron Brace.