Patriots free agent DE Chris Long announced via his Instagram account that he plans to sign elsewhere this offseason and seek a larger role with another team.
“Thank you Pats Nation. As a player you’ve given so much support to, I owe you an explanation as to why I’ll be moving on in FA… even if it isn’t a big deal.
This year and this opportunity gave me a ton. I made lifelong friends in a great locker room and became a champion. I’m so thankful that Coach B (the GOAT) took a chance on me and allowed me the opportunity to play a small part in this wonderful year.
This has zero to do with money, etc. It’s the right move in my heart because I want to get back to being the player I was before. I’m thankful for my role this year, but as a competitor, I’m itching to do what I do best.
It was important to say thank you personally. You may not remember me much, but I’ll always remember y’all!! #driveforfive #missionaccomplished”
Long, 31, is a former No. 2 overall pick of the Rams back in 2008. He spent eight years in St. Louis before he ws cut last year and later signed a one-year contract with the Patriots.
In 2016, Long appeared in all 16 games for the Patriots and recorded 35 tackles, four sacks, a forced fumble, a fumble recovery and three pass defenses. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 59 edge defender out of 109 qualifying players.
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