One of the most surprising acquisitions for the New England Patriots this offseason could prove to be the most important.

Jamie Collins is back for a second ride with New England, but this time seems to be different. When the Patriots signed him this offseason, it seemed as if there would be built-up tension between both parties because of the way Collins departed in 2016. The Patriots traded him to the Cleveland Browns in the middle of the season, and he hasn’t appeared to be the same player since he left.

In 2015, Collins had career-highs in forced fumbles (5), sacks (5.5) and passes deflected (6). He was arguably the best player on New England’s defense — so the mid-season trade was a shock to everyone.

Fast-forwarding to OTAs this offseason, he was reported to be a “key cog” in the Patriots’ defense be ESPN’s Mike Reiss. The Athletic’s Jeff Howe took some offseason notes in a recent article, and had some optimistic words to say about Collins.

“The coaching staff is fired up over what they’ve seen from linebacker Jamie Collins, both on the field and in the building,” said Howe.

It seems as if both parties have found a new understanding, and this Sports Illustrated piece could perfectly explain it.

One name to watch in New England: Jamie Collins. The ex-Browns linebacker has lost weight, and his play speed has caught the attention of the staff in the spring. And the interesting thing with him is that, when the Patriots traded him to Cleveland in October 2016, there was feeling that he was too caught up in his contract situation. At that point, he’d made about $3 million as a pro football player. Over the last two years alone, he made $27 million. So … that’s less of a concern now.

Training camp is around the corner and Collins will still have to compete with Dont’a Hightower, Kyle Van Noy and Ja’Whaun Bentley for a starting role. Things are looking up for Collins, but only time will tell whether or not he can re-find himself in this defense.