The New England Patriots reportedly bolstered their particular teams unit on Friday.

Linebacker Chris Board — a preferred of Patriots head coach Bill Belichick’s — signed a two-year contract with the club, according to NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero. The deal is worth up to $ six.7 million.

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Board starred on the Detroit Lions’ particular teams unit final season. Belichick raved about the 27-year-old ahead of their Week 7 matchup.

“Board, that is the most effective particular teams player we’ll play against all year,” Belichick mentioned. “He’s excellent. A excellent player.”

“He’s a really difficult guy to matchup against. He has a excellent mixture of size and speed as effectively as encounter, instincts, and methods. It is all of the above. There are actually no weaknesses in the player. You have got to figure out how to deal with him. He’s observed every little thing. He’s observed every little thing.”

Particular teams was a weak spot for the Patriots in 2022, so Board must bring a substantially-necessary increase in that division. New England also not too long ago re-signed veteran particular teamers Matthew Slater and Joe Cardona.