Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Patriots lock up key special teamers, solidify D-line

BY NICK ST. DENIS

It's been business as usual for the Patriots since the start of free agency Tuesday.

New England has put a focus on depth the past two days, solidifying important pieces to its special teams arsenal and shoring up the defensive line.

The Patriots re-signed special teams ace Matt Slater, who is listed as a wide receiver. They also retained special-teamer linebackers Tracy White and Niko Koutouvides to one-year contracts. Both 'backers are in their 30s.

More importantly, New England added a likely starter in Jonathan Fanene to its defensive line, signing the defensive end to a $12 million three-year deal that includes a $3.85 million in bonuses, according to Aaron Wilson of Scout.com.

Fanene recorded 6.5 sacks in 16 games for the Bengals last season.

The Patriots also made sure to hang on to defensive lineman Kyle Love, who is only 25 years old and could have an extended relationship with New England if he builds on his 33 tackles and three sacks from a season ago.

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