 New England added LB Akeem Ayers Tuesday. (USA TODAY Images) |
The Patriots made a move to try and add some depth to the linebacker position on Tuesday, acquiring Tennessee Titans linebacker Akeem Ayers via a trade, with the deal reportedly pending a physical.
The move helps New England as they continue to try and deal with the loss of Jerod Mayo, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 6. They've also seen Dont'a Hightower banged up and now will also have to make changes to compensate for the loss of Chandler Jones, who will seemingly miss the next month with a hip injury.
Ayers reportedly had offseason knee surgery on both knees to repair his patellar tendons. With the deal being contingent on a physical, should he pass, that should tell most fans all they need to know about his health if the coaches and front office are comfortable enough with him to complete the deal.
The deal will cost the Patriots a sixth-round draft choice in next year's draft in exchange for Ayers and a Titans' seventh-rounder, per ESPN.com Titans reporter Paul Kuharsky.
The former Titan was a second-round pick in 2011 and is in the final year of his contract.
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