Defensive tackle Terrance Knighton is back where he belongs after signing a one-year pact with the New England Patriots, a team he was cheering for growing up in Hartford, Connecticut. 

Last week, the Patriots inked Knighton, who was coming off a one-season (2015) stint with the Washington Redskins. Before playing for Washington, he also suited up for the Jacksonville Jaguars (drafted him 72nd overall in 2009), and the Denver Broncos. 

"I just prayed on it, talked to a lot of my family, and just followed my heart. My heart told me to go to New England," Knighton stated in a conference call Thursday according to Patriots.com. 

"When you're born in Connecticut, at birth you have a choice... I chose to go with Boston," the 29-year-old also said. "I'm a big Celtics fan, Red Sox, Bruins, Patriots fan growing up. It means a lot, not only to me, but also my family."

Knighton is a great defensive addition for the Patriots, who have been legitimate playoff contenders, and in the 2014 season, won the Super Bowl (XLIX).

However, one of the most important conditions in his new contract involves his weight, but the veteran starter is not worried about it being a major issue. The former Temple University standout said he is working hard in the off-season and will continue doing so during the Patriots' preparations ahead of the 2016 season. 

As a starter in his previous teams, Knighton will have to prove himself against younger guys trying to make the roster once the organized team activities (OTAs) and training camp arrive.

Knighton is just one of the Pats' early additions this off-season as they try to have an improved roster that can bring the team back to the Super Bowl. Last season, they came up short, getting eliminated in the American Football Conference (AFC) Championship Game.