Three days after being released by the New England Patriots, defensive lineman Tommy Kelly has found a new home.
The Arizona Cardinals announced they signed the 33-year-old to a one-year deal Wednesday, adding depth to the defensive line a week after losing Darnell Dockett for the season.
In a corresponding move, defensive lineman Ryan McBean was released.
Kelly started the first five games of 2013 for the Patriots before suffering an ACL injury on Oct. 5. Kelly was on pace for his most productive season since 2006 with 22 tackles and 2.5 sacks at the time of his injury. He had career highs of 7.5 sacks in 2011 and 67 tackles in 2006.
Kelly is entering his 11th season and entered the league in 2004 with the Oakland Raiders as an undrafted free agent.
He'll join a defensive line in Arizona that was ranked No. 1 against the run last season but lost its anchor in Dockett on Aug. 18. Kelly is the third free-agent defensive lineman signed since Dockett's injury, joining fellow former Patriot Isaac Sopoaga and McBean.
Cardinals coach Bruce Arians expressed a need for an improved pass rush this week.
The Cardinals conclude the preseason Thursday night at San Diego and open the regular season at home on "Monday Night Football" against the Chargers.
