I know Patriots nation is somewhat divided on Spikes return but personally I never wanted him to leave in the first place. I get that he was a bit of a meatball off the field in his first stint, and the “four years a slave” tweet certainly didn’t endear him to anyone but I look at it like this:
Spikes might be better against the run than any other Patriots defender is at any one thing. He also brings a presence to the heart of the defense that few other players do.
I know his limitations and in an ideal world he’s not playing in sub packages, but he just so good on early downs I believe he’s worth a roster spot. Belichick has never shied away from specialization and despite not being the best in coverage, I don’t think he’s ever been a total liability. Let’s remember he had a big interception in the 2011 AFCCG vs. the Ravens (that Brady blew with an ill-advised deep pass interception).
Simply put, he’s a great tool for the toolbox and brings not only experience in the system but a meanness that ever defense craves. I’m excited to see how he fits into things now and it’s certainly beneficial to have him out there now with Mayo/Hightower not out there.