The New England Patriots made an under-the-radar move on Friday as they added more depth to their linebacking corps. The team reached an agreement with former Buffalo Bills linebacker Tony Steward who will provide their special teams unit with some much-needed depth. Steward could end up being an excellent signing and may develop into a contributor for the Patriots.

Steward was a sixth-round pick by the Bills in the 2015 NFL Draft. He played his college ball at Clemson where he was a solid linebacker with the potential to develop into a backup at the next level. In his first season with the Bills, Steward saw limited action in seven games, recording only one total tackle. He did suffer a knee injury in the preseason and a back injury that ended his season, so perhaps those slightly hindered his progress.

It was certainly surprising to see the Bills part ways with the Steward. The team does not have all that much at the linebacker position in the wake of Nigel Bradham’s departure and A.J. Tarpley’s retirement, but apparently they will look to add a linebacker in the draft. Still, the decision to release Steward could backfire as the Patriots will find a way to utilize the young pro.

Speaking of the Patriots, they are going to be looking for a player to step up into their fourth linebacker position. Jerod Mayo’s retirement has pushed Jonathan Freeny, who was the top backup last season, into a starting role so they need to replace his production off the bench. Steward will compete with former Chicago Bears linebackers Shea McClellin and Jon Bostic for the job, and he stands a chance of beating them out given their relatively poor performance as of late.

Even if Steward is not the top backup, he could end up being a key addition to special teams. The Patriots already have a couple of special teams stars in Matthew Slater and Nate Ebner, but Steward could end up being used there as well. He should be a solid contributor and stands a good chance of earning a roster spot.

Overall, adding Steward is a high upside move for the Patriots. He’s young, still has time to develop, and Bill Belichick should be able to get the most out of him. At the very worst, the Patriots can cut Steward before the season if he does not perform well. It is a low risk, high reward move for the team.