Denver Broncos defensive end Derek Wolfe (95) and linebacker A.J. Johnson (45) celebrate a defensive stop during the second half of an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns, Sunday, Nov. 3, 2019, in Denver. The Broncos won 24-19. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey) ▲

The Patriots have had discussions with free agent defensive lineman Derek Wolfe

Pass rush help could be on the way for the Patriots.

According to a source, the Patriots are showing interest and have had discussions with defensive lineman Derek Wolfe. The 30-year-old spent the last eight seasons in Denver. Last season, he made a career-high seven sacks to go with 12 quarterback hits in 12 games before landing on the injured reserve with a dislocated elbow.

Wolfe, who's 6-foot-5, 285 pounds, would provide the Patriots with some nice depth on the defensive line after the team lost pass rushers Kyle Van Noy (to Miami) and Jamie Collins (to Detroit). The Pats also lost defensive tackle Danny Shelton, but added Beau Allen on a two-year deal. The Patriots are in need of some sizeable defensive ends as well with Deatrich Wise as the only true option on the roster.

A second-round pick in 2012, Wolfe has spent his entire career with the Broncos. He's started every game he's played (108) and has made 33 career sacks. Bill Belichick and the Patriots know him well. Wolfe has played six regular season games against the Pats and has two sacks, three quarterback hits and three tackles for loss. In his one playoff game against the Patriots, he finished with a sack and two quarterback hits in the Broncos 2016 AFC Championship win.

Back in 2017, when asked about the Broncos defense, Belichick praised the defensive end saying, "Wolfe is one of the top players in the league."

mdaniels@providnecejournal.com

On Twitter: @MarkDanielsPJ