The New England Patriots have one of the deepest rosters in the NFL. However, that does not mean that it cannot still be improved and additional layers of depth added. After all, while some positions like safety or defensive end are seemingly overflowing with talent, others are less deep.
Therefore, it should not be a surprise to read the news that the Patriots have worked out former Atlanta Falcons linebacker O’Brien Schofield last week, as first reported by ESPN’s Vaughn McClure:
Former Falcons OLB O'Brien Schofield worked out for the Patriots last week and is currently mulling six offers, according to source. He plans to make a decision in the next two weeks. Falcons coach Dan Quinn said Schofield is never ruled out.
The 29-year old played last season on a one-year contract with the Falcons and appeared in all 16 of his team’s games as a sub linebacker. Schofield, who was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in the fourth round of the 2010 draft and also spent time with the Seattle Seahawks, finished with 28 tackles, 2.0 sacks and one forced fumble.
New England has two of the best linebackers in the NFL in Dont’a Hightower and Jamie Collins but the depth behind the starting duo is either inexperienced or lacking quality. Six-year veteran Schofield would help in the first department – but he would have to prove himself able of helping in the second one as well if he wants to be a member of the Patriots in 2016.