Report: Patriots sign Brandon Spikes to 1-year deal

The New England Patriots have turned to a familiar face in addressing their depth on the defensive side of the ball, signing linebacker Brandon Spikes to a one-year deal, according to Field Yates and Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Spikes spent the first four seasons of his NFL career in New England, appearing in 51 games and making 29 starts, before moving on to spend the 2015 campaign with the division-rival Buffalo Bills.

Though he now rejoins a strong group of Patriots linebackers, the 27-year-old's proven ability as a downhill run defender will almost certainly give him the opportunity to earn a key early-down role.

Spikes's most productive year with New England came in 2012, where he recorded 92 tackles, one sack and five forced fumbles, helping the team to a top-10 finish in run defense.