After the Denver Broncos signed cornerback Aqib Talib away from the New England Patriots, rumors began to fly that the Patriots were interested in Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ cornerback Darrelle Revis.
On Wednesday afternoon, Revis was released and the rumors continued to grow.
On Wednesday night, a report surfaced that Revis had agreed to a one-year deal worth $12 million.
Although Revis’ business manager has denied a deal has been reached, it appears as though an agreement will be finalized on Thursday.
According to NFL.com’s Albert Breet, the Patriots now believe they have control over an all-time great player and would like to lock him up long term.
Important note: Darrelle Revis' 1-year, $12 million deal w/the Patriots doesn't contain anything preventing NE from franchising him in '15.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 13, 2014
Additionally, I'm told the Patriots ultimately, after a feeling-out period, have designs on locking up Revis long-term.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 13, 2014
This is how the Patriots look at the Revis deal -- They retain $$ flexibility for rare opportunities to get not Pro Bowlers, but HOFers.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 13, 2014
Yes. $14.4 million. But it is control, which is vital. RT @bomani_jones: @AlbertBreer franchise would be 120 percent of that, right?
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) March 13, 2014
Revis is still just 28 years old. He had 50 tackles, two interceptions, 11 passes defensed and one sack last season.