When Jamie Collins took to the podium to speak with media on Thursday, he did so under starkly different circumstances than the last time he wore a Patriots logo.
Collins was traded to the Browns in 2016 as a budding superstar defender that wanted a “Von Miller money” payday. New England wasn't going to oblige, and he was sent packing. He returned to the Patriots this offseason as a player cut by Cleveland and on a one-year deal.
Collins said he was a little surprised it was the Patriots who came calling.
“I was,” Collins said, via Zach Cox of NESN.com. “But then again, I wasn’t, because I’m just a free agent, so obviously a lot of teams are going to contact you or whatever. That’s just the business of the game. I’m always surprised no matter what. I’m surprised right now just being in the position.”
Collins said his familiarity with the Patriots’ system was a “big factor” in his choice to return. He also noted that signing with New England was the best decision for his family.
Some questions have surrounded exactly how Collins will fit into a Patriots defense that returns its entire linebacker group from last season, but he primarily played outside on Day 3 of organized team activities, rushing the passer on some reps and dropping into coverage on others.
Collins appeared in all 16 games for the Browns last season, playing 90.7 percent of defensive snaps and tallying 104 tackles, four sacks, 13 tackles for loss and one interception.
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