The Patriots announced the signing of former Jets defensive back Marquice Cole today.

The 5-foot-10, 192-pound Cole projects to help most on special teams. He finished with 11 special teams tackles last season for the Jets, and also is a gunner on the punt team.

Cole, who has also played cornerback in sub packages, was not tendered by the Jets as a restricted free agent this offseason.

The 28-year-old went to Northwestern and entered the NFL as a rookie free agent with the Raiders in 2007. He spent most of that first season with the Titans' practice squad, then joined the Saints' practice squad in 2008. In 2009, he landed on the Jets' practice squad before being promoted to the active roster in September.

With the Jets over the last three seasons, Cole played in 37 games with one start and has registered 14 defensive tackles, two interceptions with one returned for a touchdown and 45 special teams tackles.

In his only NFL start vs. Buffalo (Jan. 2, 2011), Cole finished with five solo tackles and two interceptions, including one that he returned 35 yards for a touchdown.

In addition to Cole, the Patriots also confirmed the previously reported signing of defensive end Trevor Scott.