DefenseRules
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http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/reiss_pieces/
Don't know much about either guy, but Ruff sounds intriguing.
August 11, 2006
LB workouts
The Patriots had free-agent linebackers Orlando Ruff and Chris Claiborne in for workouts at Gillette Stadium within the past few weeks.
The workouts could simply mean the team was seeking more information to update its list of available players. The workouts could also indicate potential interest in signing either player, as the Patriots are without starter Tedy Bruschi (broken wrist) for the preseason.
The 28-year-old Claiborne has played seven seasons with three teams –- the Lions (1999-2002), Vikings (2003-2004) and Rams (2005). At 6-foot-3, 255 pounds, he would project as an inside linebacker in the Patriots’ 3-4 defense. Claiborne has experience at the weakside, strongside and middle linebacker spots over his career, although his experience in a 3-4 scheme appears to be limited. He started seven games for the Rams last season, and was limited by injuries.
Ruff, at 6-foot-3, 253 pounds, has a similar physical makeup as Claiborne, and would also project as an inside linebacker. He’s played seven seasons, with the Chargers (1999-2002), Saints (2003-2004) and Browns (2005). Ruff played under former Patriots defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel last year (16 games, no starts), so he would come with some knowledge of the Patriots’ 3-4 system.
Ruff and Claiborne are part of a free-agent crop of linebackers that includes Jeff Posey, Jamie Sharper, Rocky Calmus, Ron McKinnon and Earl Holmes, among others.
Don't know much about either guy, but Ruff sounds intriguing.
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