The New England Patriots and defensive tackle Mike Pennel agreed to a two-year contract worth $8 million. Here’s how that contract breaks down over the course of that deal, via ESPN’s Mike Reiss.
Chances he makes the roster, based on contract: 75 percent.
What the contract means for Pennel: As noted by Reiss, the Patriots tend to put their defensive tackles into a rotation, playing them between 40 and 60 percent of snaps. Pennel and Lawrence Guy are the two defensive tackles in that rotation, with the team likely to add at least one more starting-caliber talent to the mix. Michael Bennett, a defensive end by body type, may also take some snaps in the interior on passing downs, much like Pennel will. But for now, his contract indicates that Pennel will have a great shot not just to make the team but also contribute significantly. He will be the Patriots’ best effort at replacing Malcom Brown, who signed with the Saints, and perhaps Danny Shelton, who is still a free agent.
