Dwight Freeney a possibility?

Yesterday we talked about the possibility of adding Mario Williams. 

Based on reports from profootballtalk.com, there could be a shot that Dwight Freeney may also be available.

After signing Robert Mathis to a four-year, $36-million deal, the Colts may not be able to afford Freeney’s $19.035 million cap hit in 2012.

Combined with the whole Peyton Manning fiasco, it may be time for the Colts to move on from Freeney and his big contract as the team enters rebuilding mode. 

If Indianopolis plans to cut or trade the seven-time Pro Bowler, would the Patriots be interested? 

I think so. 

Belichick certainly has familarity with the 2005 Defensive Player of the Year as the Pats have faced Freeney nine times during his career. The 6-foot-1, 268-pounder has four sacks in that span, which is more impressive considering he usually commands a constant double team. 

Although Freeney posted only 8.5 sacks in 2011, he should still have a few great years left before he moves to a more situational role. 

Despite his size limitations, Freeney is successful because of his elite burst and his patented spin move. Look him up on YouTube and you’ll see some of the best offensive tackles in the game get embarassed by his lightning quick spin. 

The biggest concern with Freeney would be his contract. If the Pats are going to spend big bucks on a free agent pass rusher, I rather have the younger and more complete package with Mario Williams. However, if they could negotiate a lower number with Freeney, he could be a dynamic threat off the edge next season.