Border Wars: Patriots Ink Ex-Jet Woodhead On Eve of Showdown

Surprise, surprise. Another border war shot has been fired.

On Saturday afternoon, it was released that the Patriots had signed ex-New York Jet WR/RB Danny Woodhead to take the 53rd roster spot vacated when Laurence Maroney was shipped out of town.

Woodhead, who was a jack of all trades type for the Jets, is an interesting move because, although he is unlikely to hang around with New England for long after this weekend’s game, he could be a short term asset when it comes to discovering some of New York’s secrets.

After all, the Jets employed a similar strategy last season as well. When ex-Patriot backup quarterback Kevin O’Connell became available, Jets head coach Rex Ryan wasted no time sweeping him up.

However, with only one day to capitalize on his insider tips, the possibility of Woodhead hanging around for longer than a few days becomes more likely. After all, how much can New England capitalize on with less than 24 hours to work with?

In addition to the lack of time, Woodhead also falls in line with the types of players the head coach Bill Belichick likes to have on his team. While he’ll never wow you, Woodhead is versatile offensive threat that can also play special teams, a trait that Belichick always covets from his players.

Last season, Woodhead was a modest contributor for New York, appearing in ten games (not including his two playoff appearances) and garnered 64 yards on 15 attempts on the ground, and 87 yards on eight receptions as well. Granted those are not staggering numbers and they were, in all likelihood, accumulated during garbage time, but Woodhead has proven that he can be a serviceable part for a team.

Despite some intriguing aspects to his game, Woodhead is more than likely a one week wonder here in New England. However, I wouldn’t be shocked if, given the opportunity by Belichick and Co., Woodhead hangs around if he proves he can contribute on special teams.