29-Year-Old Middle Linebacker Signs with the Patriots
In the last two seasons, Robert Spillane was one of the Raiders' defensive leaders. Under defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, his influence was instrumental in the Raiders defense's success. Spillane was one of the best middle linebackers on the free agent market. At 29, Spillane has embarked on a new chapter in his career, signing a three-year deal worth $37.5 million in free agency with the New England Patriots.
In the last two years with the Raiders, Spillane led the team in tackles with 148, and 158 those two seasons. He also added 17 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, and five interceptions in that span. Spillane was a tackling machine for the Raiders and through some injuries. He was one of the most consistent players the Raiders have had for a while. As you can see by the stats, Spillane is a sure tackler who can get the job done. Spillane was not known for his pass coverage skills before joining the Raiders, but he quickly improved in this area.
It put a chip on his shoulders when Spillane left the Steelers to come to the Raiders. "Leaving there has only grown the chip on my shoulder," Spillane said. "At the end of the day, they had a chance to bring me back in free agency, but I'm here now, and I'm so thankful to be a Raider, and I look forward to bringing it to them on Sunday." Spillane now has another chip on his shoulder since the Raiders did not bring him back. The Patriots will benefit from the extra chip.
Spillane's journey from being an undrafted free agent in 2018 to his current status is genuinely inspiring. He has played in 86 career games, 50 of those he started, split between the Pittsburgh Steelers, Tennessee Titans, and Raiders. His stats -301 solo tackles, 27 tackles for loss, 19 pass breakups, 12 quarterback hits, six interceptions, and one forced fumble across 3,508 defensive snaps-are a testament to his hard work and dedication.
Spillane is the perfect fit for New England. He will bring toughness and dedication to the Patriots’ defense. Spillane is also a leader and can do it all on the football field. He does not miss any games and can be counted on to do his job. Patriot fans should be happy they signed Spillane.
