K.J. Britt had a front-row seat to the Patriots' relentless physicality last season. Now, he's thrilled to be wearing the same uniform.

This past January, Britt's Miami Dolphins traveled to Foxboro for a frigid regular-season finale. Already eliminated from playoff contention, Miami hoped to end a tough year on a high note. But after just one snap, Britt knew it wouldn't be easy.

"I remember the first play of offense, I was on the sideline watching them fire off the ball," Britt recalled. "It looked different than any team we had played against. You could tell they had a different level of physicality."

That day, the Patriots dominated the Dolphins 38-10—a statement win that set the stage for New England's run to the Super Bowl. Three playoff victories later, the Patriots hoisted the Lombardi Trophy, and Britt never forgot what he saw.

"For 60 minutes, that's a long game," Britt said. "I can see why they won so many games. It didn't surprise me because of what I saw when I came up here."

When free agency opened in March, the linebacker made joining Mike Vrabel and the Patriots his top priority. That goal became reality with a one-year deal. Now, through two weeks of the team's voluntary offseason program, Britt is enjoying being on the other side of that physical brand of football.

"Bunch of blue-collar guys," Britt said. "This is where I wanted to be. I wanted to work with guys that are like-minded. In this league, you have some prima donnas who play for the fame. Here, it's about the work."