However, McDaniel’s comments might best be taken with a grain of salt, in light of their recent roster activity.
Apparently, Miami is building quite the stable of ex-Pats ahead of their season-opener.
On Thursday, Miami announced the signing of former Patriots special teams stalwart Justin Bethel. The 32-year-old was released by New England on Tuesday, as the team reduced this roster to 53 members, in accordance with the NFL mandate.
Bethel joined the team in October 2019, after having placed seven games for the Baltimore Ravens in that same season. During his three years in New England, he appeared in a combined 44 regular season and playoff games. While taking only 47 total snaps at cornerback, Bethel’s most valuable contributions came on special teams, as a core member of New England’s kicking game. In that span, he led the Patriots in special teams tackles with 26. He also logged two fumble recoveries, one forced fumble and one pass deflection. His ability to find himself in proper position to make a play on the ball made him one of New England’s most valuable special teams coverage players, behind team captain Matthew Slater.
Not only does Bethel immediately upgrade Miami’s special teams coverage, his knowledge and system-savvy put him in the unique position to share valuable insight on New England’s schemes in all three phases of the game.
But wait … there’s more.
With the signing of former Patriots defensive end Trey Flowers, Miami will employ yet another ex-Pats defender for the upcoming season. Contrary to some popular belief, Flowers can still be effective. Unfortunately, injuries limited his time on the field in both 2020 and 2021. During the past two seasons, Flowers saw the field for only 14 games, leading to a notable decline in his production. He had just 3.5 sacks from 2020-21, when he missed time with knee and shoulder injuries, as well as a broken forearm.
However, when healthy, Flowers is still one of the more formidable pass rushers in the league, demonstrating great instincts and ability to locate the ball. He was also one of the Lions’ best run defenders, as well as a positive and influential presence in the locker room. At just 29 years of age, Flowers still has plenty left in the tank to make an impact on Miami’s front seven.
For the Patriots, the signing of Bowden is far more connected to his versatility than it is with any far-fetched conspiratorial rumors. Besides, recon work of this type is generally futile when hoping to gain a competitive advantage. In 2021, the Patriots signed ex-Miami hybrid Malcolm Perry just prior to the teams’ season-opener.
As previously mentioned, New England lost that game at Gillette Stadium.
Former Dolphins’ wideout DeVante Parker , along with defensive tackle Davon Godchaux and linebacker Raekwon McMillan are among Miami’s former teammates who will be wearing a Pats uniform during this contest.
In Miami’s case, Bethel and Flowers join ex-Pats’ linebacker Elandon Roberts, as well as cornerbacks Keion Crossen and Eric Rowe on Miami’s active roster.
Kickoff between the Patriots and Dolphins is set for 1 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 11 at Hard Rock Stadium.
It is shaping up to be a fun one in South Florida.
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