Report: Patriots working to bring ex-Pro Bowl LB Jamie Collins back

It appears the homecoming many predicted in late September could occur this fall is close to becoming a reality. 

According to Field Yates of ESPN, the New England Patriots "are working towards a deal" to bring free-agent linebacker Jamie Collins back for what would be his third stint with the organization. Collins, 31, began the season with the Detroit Lions but became surplus to requirements after head coach Dan Campbell desired to give playing time to younger personnel. Detroit was hoping to receive something for Collins' services in a trade but ultimately released him on Sept. 28. 

While with the Lions this season, Collins recorded 10 total tackles, one fumble recovery, a tackle for a loss and a single quarterback hit across two games. 

Collins first entered the NFL when the Patriots selected him in the second round of the 2013 draft, and he earned his only Pro Bowl nod in 2015 before he was traded to the Cleveland Browns in the fall of 2016. He rejoined the Patriots ahead of the 2019 campaign but then signed with Detroit in March 2020. 

The 1-3 Patriots play at the 1-3 Houston Texans this Sunday.