The New England Patriots and John Simon reached an agreement on a two-year deal worth $7.125 million. Here are the terms of the deal, as laid out by ESPN’s Mike Reiss.
Chances he makes the roster, based on contract: 75 percent.
What the contract means for Simon: The Patriots clearly valued Simon, as they made him their first transaction of free agency. They retained him with the idea of getting him back in the staring lineup as an edge-setting linebacker. Often, he plays the role that Rob Ninkovich once played, and Bill Belichick will be the first to explain just how complicated that role can be, requiring smarts and versatility to do just about everything for the defense. Because Simon proved himself capable in the second half of the season and in the postseason, the Patriots will retain him, and seem likely to keep him around for 2019, especially because he’s (sort of) a defensive end, which will help with the departure of Trey Flowers. Simon didn’t get much attention for his strong play in 2018, but he might become a fan favorite if he can stick with New England for the next two years. There is a chance he misses roster cuts in 2019, considering he isn’t guaranteed much money. But in all likelihood, they’ll keep him around.
