Mike Dussault

The Patriots performed a Michigan linebacker switcheroo this week, letting go of pass rusher Shawn Crable and bringing back special teams guy/run stopper Pierre Woods.

Woods was working as a groundskeeper at Michigan’s Big House when he got the call from the Pats. I have to imagine the motivation for a guy who was staring head on at a reverse Rudy (who went from groundskeeper to player for those who don’t love Sean Astin flicks) will be high. 

Imagine yourself, having lived your dream for four seasons, then finding it come to a sudden end. He must’ve felt like he was just hitting his stride as he came into this season before getting cut, having one work out with the Chiefs then finding himself painting lines on the field where he once won glory.

So I have to think that we’re going to get a highly motivated Pierre Woods.

What’s the logic behind this move? Well, as @SkinlessJSN and I discussed on Twitter Woods will immediately bring Special Teams experience. But secondarily I think we could take over as the OLB in the base 34 defense on run downs for Jermaine Cunningham. Cunningham just might be a stronger pass rusher than Crable was, and Woods just might be a stronger run stopper than Cunningham is. 

If those variables are correct this move will make the Patriots better. And that’s all Bill Belichick tries to do.

As to whether or not Woods is in shape enough and ready to hop right in and play 15-20 snaps on defense remains to be seen. The Pats probably won’t be in the 3-4 much this week with Peyton Manning coming to town.