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Patriots sign free agent defensive tackle Mike Pennel to a 2-year deal

New England has made another move.

NFL: Green Bay Packers at New York Jets Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

The New England Patriots’ busy Thursday continues. After already bringing three players on board earlier today, the New England Patriots have made another move: according to ESPN’s Field Yates, the club has signed former New York Jets defensive tackle Mike Pennel today — a potential replacement for former first-round draft pick Malcom Brown, who signed a three-year, $15 million deal with the New Orleans Saints today.

Pennel hit the open market because the Jets made a somewhat surprising move in February when they opted to decline the $1.0 million contract option in Pennel’s deal. As a result of the decision, the veteran became an unrestricted free agent yesterday — and one that looked tailor-made for the Patriots: at 6’4, 330 lbs, he is a big-bodied presence at the heart of the defensive line, capable to taking on double teams and controlling the point of attack in the two-gap scheme New England runs.

While not exactly the highest-upside pass rushing option, the 27-year-old could help the Patriots replace Malcom Brown and possibly also fellow free agent Danny Shelton.

[UPDATE] Pennel’s contract is for two years.

Poll

How would you grade the signing of Mike Pennel?

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  • 25%
    A
    (523 votes)
  • 50%
    B
    (1039 votes)
  • 19%
    C
    (389 votes)
  • 3%
    D
    (62 votes)
  • 1%
    F
    (29 votes)
2042 votes total Vote Now