A Case for Jason Taylor

So far in free agency the Patriots made headlines with the biggest trade of the off-season, sending QB Matt Cassel and LB Mike Vrabel to Kansas City for the Chiefs’ second round pick. But as far as acquisitions, they signed some name players in the twilight of their careers in RB Fred Taylor and CB Shawn Springs.

People suggested with the salary cap room created by the Cassel-Vrabel trade that the Pats could go after Baltimore’s franchised OLB Terrell Suggs. But signing Suggs would not only consume all the cap space created by the trade, but it would also cost two first round picks. It’s too much of a cost for one player as well as handcuffing the team’s ability to add depth to the roster.

Based on the signings so far, it appears New England won’t break the bank on a single player. But they shouldn’t just shop for bargains. One player worth digging a little deeper in the wallet for is DE Jason Taylor.

J.T. became available after he couldn’t come to an agreement with Washington over participation in the team’s off-season workout program (his 3.5 sacks helped the Redskins’ decision-making process). Because Taylor preferred to stay in Florida to work out, the Redskins released the six-time Pro Bowler.

I wouldn’t expect Taylor to give in and join the off-season program once he signs with his next team, but if participation not an issue with head coach Bill Belichick, then the Pats should bring Taylor into the fold.

There are reports that the Patriots do seem interested in Jason’s services. Considering how Taylor terrorized the Patriots over the years, it’s easy to understand why Belichick would want Taylor, even if only to ensure he doesn’t play against New England this year.

Taylor fits Belicheck’s mold of what a 3-4 OLB should look like. But more important than appearance, Taylor has proven himself to be four-down player that can defend the run equally as well as he rushes the passer.

For years Belichick sung Taylor’s praises despite Jason abusing New England’s offensive line. Imagine how much more Bill would appreciate Jason if he’s doin’ his thang for the Pats on a weekly basis.

Signing Taylor won’t be easy. By the sound of it, Taylor is talking with up to a dozen other teams that desire his services. But if he doesn’t mind playing LB in a 3-4 then I’d want Jason Taylor for a year.

That’s right, just one year. While I do believe Taylor has plenty to offer the Patriots, he will be 35 in September. The Pats don’t hold on to veterans when they’re close to the finish line. I wouldn’t make an exception for Taylor either.