The New England Patriots have pressing needs across their roster, particularly on offense, but they also have some defensive issues to address.
While the ideal solutions would come from free agency or the NFL Draft, the team could consider currently available players.
One notable option is linebacker David Long Jr., recently released by the Miami Dolphins. According to Keagan Stiefel of NESN, Long could be a valuable addition for New England.
Stiefel highlighted Long’s past performance, noting his role as a team captain and his standout season as one of the NFL’s top run-defending linebackers. However, after regressing this year and being relegated to special teams, the Dolphins decided to move on.
“It’s been a surprising fall for the 28-year-old, but he shouldn’t have much trouble finding a new home — perhaps with the Patriots,” Stiefel suggested.
Adding Long would make sense for the Patriots, especially with Ja’Whaun Bentley sidelined for the rest of the season. While Long might not be a long-term solution, he could provide immediate help and, with strong performance, potentially earn a spot on the 2025 roster.
This season, Long recorded 38 tackles in eight games with the Dolphins. A sixth-round pick out of West Virginia University by the Tennessee Titans in 2019, Long spent four years with Tennessee before joining Miami in 2023, where he logged 113 tackles in his debut season.
