Fan favorite and former Alabama S Vinnie Sunseri is back in the NFL, this time in a support role.

Matt Zenitz of AL.com reported that Sunseri, who was a graduate assistant for the team this past season, has been hired by the New England Patriots in a support staff role.

This news comes a year after Sunseri returned to Alabama in a similar role as a graduate assistant.

As a player for the Crimson Tide, Sunseri registered 105 total tackles, four interceptions, 1.5 sacks and helped the Crimson Tide win one SEC Championship title and two BCS National Championship titles. He played safety for the program from 2011-2013.

After he left school early, Sunseri was selected by the New Orleans in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft. He would go on to play for the Patriots and the 49ers during his NFL playing career. Sunseri is the son of Alabama outside linebackers coach Sal Sunseri.