One of the New England Patriots' major, yet possibly under-the-radar free agent signings this offseason was linebacker Robert Spillane. The former Las Vegas Raider signed a three-year, $33 million contract with the Patriots to be their starting inside linebacker in 2025 and beyond.
Spillane seems like the perfect fit in New England under new head coach Mike Vrabel, as he's known as one of the toughest, most down-to-earth players in the league.
The veteran linebacker went undrafted in 2018 and signed with the Tennessee Titans. However, he didn't see the field until 2019 when he signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Spillane spent four years in Pittsburgh, progressively improving with more playing time each season.
In 2023, Spillane signed with the Raiders and has broken out in the last two seasons. In his first opportunity to start every game of the season, Spillane collected 306 tackles, 17 TFLs, 5.5 sacks, and five interceptions over the last two years.
His performance was enough for Vrabel, the former linebacker himself, to bring Spillane to New England to be an anchor on defense for the new-look Patriots.
But this isn't the first time the two have connected. They have a history going all the way back to high school recruiting.
"It's a full-circle moment being here. (Vrabel) recruited me out of high school at Ohio State," Spillane told WEEI's Ted Johnson. "He gave me my first opportunity with the Tennessee Titans eight years ago as an undrafted free agent. Just to be signed to be the middle linebacker here and to play meaningful snaps means the world to me."
It's safe to say Spillane is beyond excited for the opportunity with the Patriots and ready to try to leave his legacy in New England.
"I don't want to let him down. He's the type of coach that any player wants to play for," Spillane said. "He encourages people to follow their dreams, to love their families, and to love football. What more can you ask for from a coach?"
Spillane's leadership spoke volumes during his time with the Raiders, and he's already developing that leadership role with the Patriots. A quality his head coach holds in high regard.
Throughout OTAs and minicamp, the Patriots' inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr has been filling in for new defensive coordinator Terrell Williams. During that time, Spillane has taken on some of the coaching responsibilities for his position to lift some of the weight off his coach's shoulders.
Spillane's leadership and all-around football character are the perfect match for Vrabel and the new culture the Patriots are trying to build. It's only the first year under the new regime, but the culture shift and young talent have excitement brewing in New England.
