Patriots scouting report: Robert Spillane is setting the tone on defense

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 21: Robert Spillane #14 of the New England Patriots reacts during the first half against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Gillette Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jordan Bank/Getty Images) | Getty Images The New England Patriots overhauled their defensive operation under first-year head coach Mike Vrabel in 2025, and that process included making some major offseason investments. One of those was signing veteran linebacker Robert Spillane to a three-year deal to become a foundational player on that side of the ball.

And while it wasn’t perfect, Spillane very much proved himself as such in his first year in Foxborough. So, what to expect heading into his second season? Let’s find out.

Hard facts Name: Robert Spillane Position: Off-ball linebacker Jersey number: 14 Opening day age: 30 (12/14/1995) Measurements : 6’1 1/4”, 234 lbs, 32 1/2” arm length, 9 1/4” hand size, 4. 77s 40-yard dash, 32 1/2” vertical jump, 9’2” broad jump, 7. 13s 3-cone drill, 4.

40s short shuttle, 10 bench press reps, 1. 96 Relative Athletic Score Experience NFL: Tennessee Titans (2018), Pittsburgh Steelers (2019-22), Las Vegas Raiders (2023-24), New England Patriots (2025-) | College: Western Michigan (2014-17) A grandson of 1953 Heisman Trophy winner John Lattner, Spillane was a two-way player at Fenwick High School in Oak Park, IL. Even though he was initially recruited as a running back rather than a linebacker, he committed to defense full time quickly after arriving at Western Michigan.