By John Sarianides

Bill Belichick continued his off season shopping spree today by signing former Jets linebacker David Harris to a two year deal. The 33 year old Harris was released by the Jets two weeks ago in a salary dump. Harris spent ten seasons in the Big Apple after being drafted by the Jets in the second round of the 2007 NFL draft.

Inside linebacker was a position of need for the Patriots. They had to sign Harris because they don’t really have a true “Mike” linebacker to play in their 4-3 defense. Harris is the ideal fit because he has experience playing in both the 4-3 and the 3-4 and he has been a three down player throughout his career.

Although he might no longer be a three down player, Harris can still be effective as a first and second down player and he could play in certain nickel packages depending on the front, personnel and call.

Belichick has always been a fan of Harris. The Patriots were interested in drafting him in 07 but the Jets took him before he could fall to them. As we all know, Belichick values versatility above all else when it comes to his players. Harris brings that but he is also a leader. He will no problem fitting in with the Patriots and the way they do things in New England. Here is what Belichick said about Harris a couple of years back.

According to an industry source, the Patriots offered Harris more money than the Jets did on a  reduced deal. If that is the case, then coming to New England was a no brainer for Harris. He has plenty of money and has had a great career. It is all about winning a championship now. He wasn’t going to be loyal to Woody Johnson and the rebuilding Jets. He was going to sign with a team that gave him a chance to win a Super Bowl. The Patriots give him the best possible chance.

Harris will fit right in with the Patriots. He is exactly what Belichick wants in a player. One man’s trash is another’s treasure. The Jets didn’t value Harris but the Patriots do and they got even better today if that is possible.