The New England Patriots are working on filling the holes in their roster as the 2012 NFL draft approaches. The Pats hope to have another solid contending season as they defend their AFC title.

Christopher Price of WEEI reports that on Thursday, the Patriots announced that they have signed free agent linebacker Bobby Carpenter, formerly of the Detroit Lions.

Carpenter is a former No. 18 overall pick, selected by the Dallas Cowboys out of Ohio State in the first round of the 2006 NFL draft. Carpenter was with the Cowboys until 2009 before moving on to play with the Miami Dolphins and the Lions.

Carpenter has 165 tackles in his NFL career, including 3.5 sacks and has one career interception. The Patriots are hoping that the six-year veteran can add some depth to their linebacking corps in the coming season.

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