Lions: Three free agents from the New England Patriots to sign
By Bob Heyrman
EDGE/OLB- Kyle Van Noy, 29 years old
The Detroit Lions should consider a reunion with Kyle Van Noy. The Lions originally drafted Van Noy with the 40th pick in 2014 NFL draft out of BYU. Detroit, much to no-ones surprise, struggled to find a position within their defense for the edge-rushing outside linebacker.
Van Noy quickly found a home with the New England Patriots under Matt Patricia’s guidance. It’s a bit odd because, under Teryl Austin, the Detroit Lions defense was fairly respectful. Detroit finished with an 11-5 record, but Van Noy couldn’t find himself on the field.
Detroit essentially gave away Van Noy for free. They sent their seventh-round pick along with Van Noy to New England for the Pats sixth-round pick. It’s safe to say Martin Mayhew was fleeced.
Van Noy is coming off of a spectacular season with the Patriots playing on the edge with that spectacular defense. New England continually finds a way to get the proper people who have specific skill-sets into the correct position. Look at Jamie Collins. New England brought back Collins, who failed to stick with Cleveland and looked all but finished.
Last season Van Noy claimed a terrific 83.6 overall grade from Pro Football Focus. Van Noy notched 7 sacks, 49 total tackles, 9 quarterback hits, and 3 fumbles forced.
I need to mention I don’t expect the Patriots and Kyle Van Noy to part ways. I have a feeling Van Noy enjoys playing in New England, and I could even see him taking a bit of a discount to remain if need be. If Van Noy returns to New England, Detroit should consider Jamie Collins, who is also set to become a free agent. He is 30 years old.
If he happens to hit the open market, the Detroit Lions need to bring back Kyle. He’d be a massive upgrade to Chrisitan Jones.