Patriots sign Lynch

One-year deal reportedly worth $1.5 million

Last updated: 15th August 2008

John Lynch Denver (now New England) 2/12/2007

Lynch: One-year contract

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Veteran safety John Lynch has joined the New England Patriots, the team announced on Friday.

Although the Patriots did not officially disclose details of the contract, local media reported that Lynch had agreed a one-year deal worth $1.5 million.

Lynch visited the Patriots' camp on Wednesday to have a physical, clearing the way for a contract.

A 15-year veteran who spent his first 11 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Lynch was a member of their Super Bowl-winning team in 2003.

He has also been selected to play in the Pro Bowl nine times - one fewer than Ken Houston, who holds the record number of appearances for a safety.

He left the Denver Broncos last month because he wanted more guaranteed playing time.

The 37-year-old has registered 1,277 tackles, 13 sacks and 26 interceptions in his league career.

New England's decision to sign Lynch comes after safety-linebacker Tank Williams suffering a season-ending knee injury in the team's first exhibition game on August 7th.