The New England Patriots are looking like the most likely destination for pass rusher Will Smith, who last played for the New Orleans Saints, NBC Sports reported.

After acquiring Pro Bowl cornerback Derrelle Revis, New England emerged as the favorite to add another formidable defensive player in the 32-year-old Smith, who is coming off a serious torn ACL injury. 

Smith, who has recorded 457 tackles, 67.5 sacks and two interceptions throughout his career, has been looking for a team that would give him the opportunity to win another Super Bowl championship, after winning his first ever title with the New Orleans Saints at Super Bowl XLIV.

NBC Sports NFL insider Mike Florio confirmed the Patriots' interest in signing Smith, who could be inked for a one-year deal.

"Barely seven months removed from a torn ACL, veteran defensive end Will Smith has drawn interest from the Patriots.  For now, the Pats are viewed as the leaders to sign him, eventually," NBC Sports reported.

Arms Race With the Broncos

Smith has not been the same defender since he recorded a career-high 13 sacks in 2009. Since then, the defensive end has never recorded more than 6.5 sacks a season, prompting analysts to say his pass-rushing abilities have already diminished.

However, when healthy, Smith could become the impact player the Pats need, especially in the postseason. With the Broncos looking to boost their defensive power, Smith would be a welcome addition for New England in their attempt to reclaim their old spot at the top of the AFC.

"The New England Patriots are still in an arms race with the Denver Broncos this offseason, even if things have started to quiet down on the free agent front. The fact of the matter remains, the Patriots need to get better and need to do so in a big way to keep up with Denver, as they're no longer the darling favorites of the AFC anymore," Fan Sided reporter Josh Hill reported.