The Patriots signed veteran defensive end Chris Long to a one year deal last night. Little Howie has only played in 18 games the last two seasons due to a variety of injuries. While Long gives the Patriots a suitable replacement for Chandler Jones, he’s not the player he was five years ago. In fact, he’s a major downgrade from Jones as a pass rusher.

Where Long will help the Patriots is against the run. He is much better than Jones at the point of attack. He has shown he can anchor down, control blockers, shed them and make the tackle. Long will also be a positive veteran presence in the locker room. He is one of the most respected players in the league.

If Long stays healthy, there is no reason he can’t give the Patriots 8-10 sacks and play 60-70% of the snaps. He’s a good player but truth be told, he’s not as good a player as Jones. Its not a knock on Long, its realty. The good news for the Patriots is, they have plenty of depth at defensive end between Long, Rob Ninkovich, Jabaal Sheard, Geno Grissom and Trey Flowers. Long won’t need to be an every down player. He just has to do his part.