Trey Flowers signs new contract with New England Patriots

NFL edge rusher Trey Flowers is headed back to where it all began. After playing just four games last season for the Dolphins due to a foot injury, Flowers has reportedly signed a new deal with the New England Patriots, according to Ian Rapoport. He’s back for his ninth NFL campaign after entering free agency in the offseason.

In his four games played for the Miami Dolphins last season, he was only able to accumulate four tackles. He then didn’t make another appearance after Week 6. His foot injury saw him moved to the injured reserve for the rest of the year. Flowers was playing on a one-year deal for $2.25 million.

The Patriots initially snagged Flowers out of Arkansas with a fourth-round selection in 2015. He accumulated 21 sacks over three seasons with five forced fumbles after missing his rookie year.

When his rookie contract ran out, Flowers signed a megadeal with the Lions for five years, $90 million. Injuries, however, would muck up his ability to consistently impact the Detroit defense.

Injuries hamper Flowers’ career after megadeal

After being a full-time starter his first three seasons in New England, he has played in just 18 games over the last three seasons with the Detroit Lions and Miami. After starting the 2017 season for the Lions with seven sacks, his numbers have steadily dwindled.

By rejoining his former team, perhaps Flowers can find the magic once again. It all depends on whether the linebacker, who turns 30 this month, stays healthy throughout the 2023 season.

The Patriots did the due diligence on their part, working Flowers out before signing him to a contract on Tuesday.

The New England Patriots have their preseason opener on Thursday night versus the Houston Texans. It’s possible that Flowers will be able to participate in that game, depending on how ready he is to contribute.

After the Patriots missed the playoffs after finishing 8-9 last season, head coach Bill Belichick hired Bill O’Brien, his one-time assistant from 2007-11, to guide the offense. Now, the former Crimson Tide offensive coordinator is helping Mac Jones right his career after a bumpy start.

The Texans will be starting rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud versus New England.