The New England Patriots have replaced Darrelle Revis with Bradley Fletcher.
The cornerback will sign with the Pats on a one-year deal after visiting the team on Tuesday his agent, Andy Simms, confirmed to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport. ESPN first reported the news.
The contract is worth up to $2.5 million, per Rapoport.
The 6-foot tall Fletcher spent the past two seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles after beginning his career with the St. Louis Rams. The six-year pro has eight career interceptions.
The 28-year-old cover-man struggled mightily along with most of Philly's secondary last season -- he was torched by the likes of Dez Bryant and Jordy Nelson -- after putting up a solid 2013 campaign. Fletcher ranked No. 92 on Pro Football Focus' corner ratings out of 108 eligible players in 2014 (he ranked 44th in 2013).
While it's a jest to suggest Fletcher will replace Revis, the signing begins what will be Bill Belichick's low-priced makeover of his secondary, which also included jettisoning Brandon Browner. With a dearth of talent on the corner market, Belichick focused on his front seven instead of overpaying for help on the back end. Now he will clean up with low-level deals on veterans with some upside.
In addition, corner Robert McClaintweeted Wednesday that he will sign on with the Patriots. The former Atlanta Falcons defensive back also had a down year in 2014.Â
As happens every year, Belichick's personnel churns, but he adjusts, changes and keeps on winning. We expect nothing different in 2015.
The latest Around The NFL Podcast reacts to Chris Borland's sudden retirement and discusses Philip Rivers' future in San Diego. Find more Around The NFL content on NFL NOW.
