Former New England Patriots linebacker Jamie Collins agreed to a three-year, $30 million deal with the Detroit Lions, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The deal includes $18 million in guaranteed money and reunites him with former Patriots defensive coordinator Matt Patricia.
Collins was drafted by the Patriots in 2013 and traded to the Cleveland Browns in 2016. He made his return to New England last season on a one-year deal and proved he still is one of the NFL’s top talents at linebacker. He finished last season with a career-high seven sacks, three interceptions, three forced fumbles, 10 tackles for loss, 10 quarterback hits and 81 tackles.
Collins’ departure came shortly after the news of Kyle Van Noy, who signed with the Miami Dolphins on a four-year, $51 million deal.
The Patriots have some holes to fill with Dont’a Hightower and Ja’Whaun Bentley as the primary players in the group.
