Earlier this week the Patriots added some depth and experience to their linebacking corps by signing Victor Hobson, a former NY Jet. Hobson was drafted by the Jets in the second round in 2003 and has started 58 games. When Mangini arrived in NY and brought with him the 3-4 defense, Hobson played primarily as an outside linebacker. However, Hobson does have the size to play inside and will probably spend some time there during training camp next to Tedy Bruschi. One negative to Hobson has been his pass rushing skills, as he struggled when he was locked up with tackles. Moving him inside would eliminate this problem, as he could be used more in run defense and in coverage. If he is able to transition to the inside, it allows Mike Vrabel and Adalius Thomas to remain outside and gives the Pats more position flexibility, as Hobson does have experience playing outside.
Hobson also adds some youth to the LB corps. Hobson is one of the few possible starters who clocks in under 30 years old (28). Frankly, I’m surprised this move didn’t come sooner. Hobson may have been waiting for a more lucrative deal, as he signed with the Pats for one year at $605,000 and a $40,000 signing bonus. Belichick appears happy with the Hobson addition, noting that,
“Victor is a good young player with considerable playing experience. We are excited about his addition to our linebacker unit.”
This signing does call to question: Will this signing affect the Patriots’ strategy on draft day? Are they now satisfied with their LB unit enough to draft elsewhere in