Rumor: Patriots Looking at Derrick Brooks

With linebacker Jerod Mayo sidelined indefinitely, the Patriots certainly need to add some depth at the linebacker position.

The Patriots opened Monday’s game in the 3-4, but after Mayo went down, switched almost exclusively to the 4-3.  If the Patriots were to switch exclusively to the 4-3, at least until Mayo returns to the field, it would open up some intriguing personnel opportunities for players who wouldn’t normally fit in the Patriots system.

One such player is former Buccaneers’ linebacker Derrick Brooks.  Ian Rapoport of the Boston Herald is reporting that the Patriots have at least some potential interest in the future Hall of Famer:

The Patriots are engaged in internal discussions about replacing injured star linebacker Jerod Mayo, and at least one big-name is a potential target.Derrick Brooks, the long-time Tampa Bay Buccaneer great, is on New England’s radar. A source with knowledge of the team’s thinking says about the possibility of signing Brooks, “They are kicking it around.”

The source said discusses are “preliminary” and that there is not yet a timetable. It is not clear is action is imminent.

Brooks would probably be the most notable name in free agency, but there are a few former Patriots I’d throw in there as well.  Tedy Bruschi, Junior Seau, and Rosevelt Colvin would all seem like realistic possibilities.  Bruschi and Seau are much older (Bruschi recently retired), but could be convinced to come play.  I thought the Patriots would resign Seau at some point this season, but maybe the Patriots are looking to sign him sooner rather than later.  Rosevelt Colvin is also an intriguing possibility.  I think he is content with not playing in 2009, but I also think that he could play if the right opportunity came along.  Signing Colvin could allow the Patriots to continue playing the 3-4, with Adalius Thomas moving inside.