The New England Patriots have acquired Cincinnati Bengals veteran free agent defensive end Jonathan Fanene on a three-year contract, according to a league source with knowledge of the situation. The move should upgrade their defensive line. Fanene, 29, is highly regarded around the NFL for his toughness and versatility. He recorded a career-high 6 ½ sacks while excelling in the Bengals’ defensive line rotation last season. The 6-foot-4, 292-pound former Utah player has 103 career tackles and 13 ½ sacks.
Scout.com: Jonathan Fanene Profile
Solid signing for the Pats at a position of need. He’ll add depth to the defensive line rotation while also bringing some sorely needed interior pass rush presence. You won’t hear many Pats fans who long for an OLB for pass rush praise this move, but it’s right in the wheelhouse for what the Pats needed most.
