FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Getting a head start on free agency on Thursday, the New England Patriots have agreed to a two-year deal with fullback James Develin to return to the club.
He received congratulations from the company that represents him in negotiations, EnterSports Management.
Huge congratulations to client @James_Develin on his new 2 year deal with the @Patriots! @jeffphowe @MikeReiss
— Enter-Sports (@EnterSportsMgmt) March 6, 2017
Develin was scheduled to become a restricted free agent.
The 6-foot-3, 255-pound Develin had missed the 2015 season with a broken leg but returned to play in every game in 2016. In the on-field celebration following the Patriots' Super Bowl LI victory, coach Bill Belichick told Develin that he brings toughness to the team.
Develin's primary contributions came as a lead blocker and on special teams. His usage on offense increased after the Patriots lost tight end Rob Gronkowski to a back injury in late November.
Develin, who turns 29 on July 23, has been with the Patriots since 2012, when he initially joined their practice squad. He is a graduate of Brown University, where he played on the defensive line.