Rolando McClain Leaves Visit With Patriots Without An Agreement, Cowboys Still In The Mix

Update:

Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports that free agent ILB Rolando McClain left his visit with the Patriots on Monday without an agreement.

• Rapoport adds that the meeting between New England and McClain was a “positive one.”
• According to Rapoport, the Cowboys are still “very much in the mix” to re-sign McClain.

This seems like it could be an attempt by McClain and his representatives to gain some leverage in contract talks with the Cowboys. Although, this strategy reportedly didn’t have an impact for RB DeMarco Murray and his talks with the Cowboys.

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ESPN’s Field Yates and Todd Archer are reporting that the Patriots are hosting free agent ILB Rolando McClain for a visit on Monday.

• Ed Werder points out that the Cowboys have been actively negotiating with McClain, and this meeting with the Patriots could create some urgency from Dallas.

The Patriots are known to take a look at a number of free agents after the market settles down, but it’s certainly interesting to hear that they’re considering one of the best available inside linebackers.

Cowboys executive VP Stephen Jones recently mentioned that they are still trying to re-sign McClain, per David Helman.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported in February that McClain is facing a four-game fine for violating substance abuse policy. Schefter added that another failed test would result in a four-game suspension under the NFL’s new substance abuse policy.

McClain, 25, came over in a trade with the Ravens and was much more productive than any one expected him to be.

Over the course of four games, McClain has recorded 23 tackles, an interceptions, a forced fumble and a pass defense. On top of that, Pro Foobtall Focus has him rated as the No. 5 inside linebacker in the league this season.

We have McClain listed as the No. 45 player in our Top 100 Free Agents list.