New England Patriots

In a move that bolsters their special teams and adds depth in the defensive backfield, the Patriots agreed to terms with free agent safety Mel Mitchell, according to a league source.
The 27-year-old Mitchell (6 feet 1 inch, 222 pounds) is entering his fifth NFL season and spent his first four years with the New Orleans Saints. Mitchell has played in 44 games (no starts) and is primarily known for his special teams prowess.
In 2004, Mitchell had a career-high 29 special teams tackles, two partially blocked punts, a special teams forced fumble, and a blocked punt recovery in the end zone. In 2002, he had 25 special teams tackles.
Mitchell entered the league in 2002 as a fifth-round draft choice out of Western Kentucky. He was vying for a starting role prior to the 2003 season but suffered a season-ending left knee injury in the exhibition finale against the Dolphins.
With linebacker Matt Chatham signing with the Jets and safety Michael Stone still a free agent, the Patriots are without two core special teams players from last season. Mitchell could fill a similar role, while also providing another option at safety, where the team has Rodney Harrison rehabbing from a serious knee injury.