Dolphins reportedly agree to deal with ex-Patriots linebacker Kyle Van Noy
By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
As first reported by the NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, the Miami Dolphins are signing ex-Patriots linebacker Kyle Van Noy. Ian Rapoport later reported the details: four years and $51 million for Van Noy, a $12.75 million average annual value.
Van Noy reunites with Brian Flores, former Patriots linebackers coach, who is now head coach in Miami. The Jets were previously in discussions with him, according to Connor Hughes of The Athletic.
In his third and final full season with the Patriots, Van Noy established career-best numbers to propel himself toward a lucrative long-term deal. He started 15 games (his only missed game was due to the birth of his child) and delivered a career-high 6.5 sacks and 15 quarterback hits as a versatile, disruptive piece in the Patriots’ front-seven.
Van Noy also made a sack and QB hit in an excellent game for in the Patriots against the Rams in Super Bowl LIII, with Flores calling the defensive plays for him. The veteran LB brings 11 games of playoff experience to Miami, 10 with New England. That’s easily the most playoff experience on the team.
Capping an eventful day for the Patriots, Van Noy became the first impending free agent to leave New England. The team already re-signed Devin McCourty and Matthew Slater, and on Monday pulled off the surprise move of a franchise tag for guard Joe Thuney.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.
