Patriots coverage and the NFL http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The patriots needed a linebacker and corner and in two rounds they got those spots covered... Jerod Mayo in round one and and in round two they selected CB Terrence Wheatley from Colorado who isn't big but has great speed http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots Patriots surprised some people who expected a corner... lineman was discussed incorrectly as well, they selected LB Jerod Mayo at #10. It is a good pick, he is versatile and they have major, major needs at inside linebacker. Corner is a need but remember they have done well with low round corners, Randall Gay started in a Super Bowl as a rookie and he was undrafted. Mayo could be the heir apparent to Bruschi as he is smart and quick. A surprise, but a very good pick http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Bengals may have missed on Harvey, but they moved quickly to take USC LB Keith Rivers who follows in a great line of Trojan linebackers... that takes a target from the Patriots who are up next and likely will go corner now http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots got the Saints #10 overall pick in round one as well as their 3rd round pick... the Saints got Ellis and the Patriots 5th round pick. Much less costly for the Saints than the rumors that were swirling of them getting up higher for Dorsey http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New Orleans Saints have traded up with the Patriots from #10 to #7 to select USC DT Sedrick Ellis. They have to be happy as they wanted to move up for a top defensive tackle and they got him at #7 where the cost is a little less. He will improve the interior of their line to go along with the talent they have on the outside and keep the opposing lineman off their new linebackers http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Ok here is our final 2008 NFL Mock Draft. Glad we got the first pick right and guaranteed not to get all 32 thanks to the Patriots, but never came close anyway http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have agreed to a contract with former COlt and Lions TE Marcus Pollard according to the Boston Globe. Pollard will add depth for a team that likes their tight ends http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net So it's time to release our first 2008 NFL Mock Draft - another will come Friday before the draft. There is lots of intrigue and different scenarios and some trades will factor in of course, but we'll take a look where things are at now. See our 2008 NFL Mock Draft http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have added some depth at linebacker today signing Victor Hobson to a one year deal. Hobson played last year for the Jets... He will add depth inside for the Patriots who desperately needed it http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have added yet another veteran cornerback to a one year contract, this time Fernando Bryant. The former Lion is familiar with new assistant coach Don Capers from their time in Jacksonville where Bryant was a first round pick in 1999. The additions of Bryant, Jason Webster and Lewis Sanders lessen the holes in the secondary for the Patriots, but they can hardy be satisfied and more help will come in the draft and early http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Eagles have signed another defensive lineman... but wait former Colt and Patriots Dan Klecko will be moved to fullback in Philadephia. It is a position he has been used in part time in the past http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Jets may raid the Patriots of WR Troy Brown who is in New York today http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Bucs keep signing adding former Patriots safety Eugene Wilson who can also play corner and may fit well at that spot in the Tampa 2 defense. He signed a one year deal to try and improve his stock http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have resigned backup nose tackle Mike Wright, who was a restricted free agent http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots secondary has been taking the losses lately, today the team filled back up some depth adding CB Lewis Sanders and safety Tank Williams http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have resigned WR Jabar Gaffney to a one year $2 million deal. Gaffney was the #3 receiver by the end of the year as Donte Stallworth faded, his resigning was a key for the Patriots http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Bears have brought back a familiar name in WR Marty Booker who has agreed to a 2 year deal with the team. Booker had 100 catches in 2001 with the Bears choose to come back to where he had known success after being traded to Miami in 2004. The Patriots were also interested in him, but Chicago won out http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have signed former Bills CB Jason Webster to add depth to what has become a depleted secondary. Webster if healthy could serve as a nickel corner http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have kept WR Randy Moss getting him signed to 3 year deal... that considering what others are getting is almost cheap. A 3 year $27 million deal with $15 million guaranteed. Bernard Berrian signed for $16 million guaranteed, though he got an average of $7 million per year. So Moss' average is considerably higher, and rightfully so. There are reports that the Eagles were offering more money. If so Moss did the right thing, took an awful lot of money even if not the most on the table to be with the right team in the right situation http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Randy Moss is close to signing a 3 year $27 million deal to stay in New England. It was never a question that was the best spot for him, it was just working out a contract, which appears to be close now http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Linebacker Tedy Bruschi has resigned with the Patriots for 2 years and over $4 million. This is a key signing for the Patriots who are thin at linebacker, and although Bruschi's skills are diminishing he is a savvy veteran. He understands his job and is used well in their defense http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots are losing their secondary quickly, first Asante Samuel and now Randall Gay has signed with the Saints. It's a 4 year deal worth up to $17.8 million or at a minimum 2 years and $6.7 million. Gay shined as an undrafted rookie for the Patriots and started in the Super Bowl that year, but only started 3 games last year. The Saints signed Jason David last year but that move blew up, now they add someone with good experience and a hometown guy to try and improve... improve yes, dramatically no http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Yes we know the salary cap has risen and the newest free agents are getting paid huge. A couple that stand out to us are Bernard Berrian and Alan Faneca, but for different reason. Berrian is not a top 5 certainly or even top 10 player at his position, he had one good year and average one the year before. Yes he is an up and coming receiver with great deep speed, but $42 million for 6 years and $16 million guaranteed? Sure the top player at the position gets paid more than he should in free agency, but Berrian wasn't the top player... what about Randy Moss. No one really counted him as they thought he was going back to the Patriots. Now how can Moss accept anything less than this... he certainly deserves to be paid much more than Berrian but the Patriots won't be paying that much. The Vikings really raised the bar on receivers here. On the other side Faneca raises the bar for offensive lineman but he certainly is in the top 3 at his position in the league and deserved to be paid more than all the guys last year, especially ones who haven't even earned a free trip to Hawaii. Faneca got more, but too much more... hint to Moss. Parity exists off the field as well. By the same token these players should be getting more than all the draft picks coming into the league. After all remember the #1 pick in the draft this year will be pushing for $35 million guaranteed. Taking that into consideration what is Moss, Faneca or even Berrian worth in comparison? It is easy to see there are some real issues that need to be fixed, but don't hold your breath. Moss... he figures to see $20-$22 million guaranteed tops, but the real questions is who will pay it... New England, Green Bay... probably not, Dallas don't count on it... after the year he had who thought he would have this much trouble finding a contract http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Cleveland Browns have added another receiving threat to improve their offense, agreeing to terms with former Patriots WR Donte' Stallworth according to ESPN. This will add a little more pressure to the Patriots (although they really didn't try to bring Stallworth back) to resign Randy Moss. Last year was the first time they have so many receiving options, but now they could be leaving quickly http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Seahawks have released OT Tom Ashworth and labeled it a post June 1 cut to help a little more with cap space. Ashworth was brought over 2 years ago from New England, but never lived up to expectations http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have released TE Kyle Brady http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Philadelphia Eagles got their man, Patriots CB Asante Samuel is now an Eagles after signing a 6 year contract http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Saints are not done and they are shopping on the corner now... yes with the Patriots but not only Samuel, they are also looking at Randall Gay and Drayton Florence. Gay is also getting interest from Tampa, Seattle and Atlanta http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Cleveland Browns have kept QB Derek Anderson. Terms were not available but it is expected to be a 3 year deal and NFL Networks is reporting $14 million is guaranteed. Patriots WR Donte Stallworth is also on his way for a visit http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Asante Samuel is heading to Philly... no he hasn't signed yet, but the Eagles announced he is coming for a visit. They know how huge his demands are and wouldn't be willing to bring him in unless they were willing to pay. Odds are he is announced as the newest Eagle this afternoon. Does that open up the rumored trade of corner Lito Sheppard to the Patriots? He would be expendable in Philly and the Patriots have a serious need http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Philadelphia Eagles are the early favorite for Patriots CB Asante Samuel, but the Saints and Bucs are players too. The Saints interest may be fading a bit and that would be good for the Eagles but the Bucs have more cap room than anyone so they certainly can make a big offer and put a lot of money up front http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have resigned WR Kelley Washington who with all the depth at receiver last year made his mark on special teams http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Patriots LB Tedy Bruschi will return for a 13th year and maybe more. According to RSPN he has agreed on a multi year deal to return to the Patriots http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net With the release of Roosevelt Colvin the Patriots are thin at linebacker. With Bruschi and Seau free agents and possibly retiring the team needs to make some moves. Adalius Thomas and Mike Vrabel are much better suited to play the outside, so the Patriots would be much better off bringing in some youth for the middle of the group. Missing out on Zach Thomas put a dent in that, but the Patriots usually do a good job of finding a player to fit the system http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots will release LB Roosevelt Colvin who has some injury concerns along with a huge cap number for next year http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net After placing the franchise tag on DT Corey Williams the Packers figure to be rather quiet in free agency... or do they? Randy Moss is a free agent, they were interested last year... it has been very quiet but not out of the question. The Packers receivers did play very well last year negating the major need, but how many teams wouldn't benefit from his play. Last year he showed he could behave and with Brett Favre you figure he would. Likely, maybe not but you never know http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net An interesting rumor making the round is of the Cowboys going after WR Randy Moss to pair with T.O. Thrown out there by Fox Sports it would make a dominant pair, but does anyone really think that would work? Exciting and scary. Moss would be crazy to leave the Patriots, some reports say they have a deal in place, others say they are not close. Truth... no one has a clue http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Cowboys have signed LB Zach Thomas to a one year $3 million deal according to the Dallas Morning News. He will likely replace Akin Ayodele in the starting lineup. Thomas was highly sought after being released by the Dolphins. The Patriots were very interested and have had great success with veteran linebackers, but the Cowboys won out http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have hired Dom Capers as a special assistant and secondary coach replacing Joel Collier http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots decided not to place the franchise tag on Randy Moss, but hope to re-sign him. Moss would be smart to stay. Though he has helped his image, seriously where would a better place for him be http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The cornerback market continues to shrink as the Seattle Seahawks have placed the franchise tag on Marcus Trufant. This means the only top flight corner available will be Patriots corner Asante Samuel, and his price keeps going up. He will be looking for more than Nate Clements got last year, in it's bogus value it will be over $80 million and that leaves the Patriots out. They will have have some options in the draft to replace him http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Oh my headache... people people please... another insane lawsuit that makes me want to scream. Granted this one isn't as bad as some fat people suing McDonalds because they are fat, that was classic stupidity! This one comes from a former St. Louis Ram (not a very good one I might add) and some other nitwits seeking $105 million in damages from the New England Patriots for video taping the walk through before the Super Bowl in Louisiana in 2002. The suit claims fraud, racketeering, breach of contract, and were in violation of Louisiana's unfair trade practices and consumer protection act. It also has the Rams, their people who attended the game and owners of seat licenses for the Rams in 2001 and 2002 as so called victims... oh how this crap makes my head ache http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Kansas City Chiefs have cut starting OG John Welbourn starting an off season that figures to see a high player turnover. There are certainly more veterans to be cut the most obvious is LB Kendrell Bell, but the biggest name may be Ty Law. If Law does get the ax, what are the odds the Patriots may look to bring him back. He isn't the player he once was but he fits the system well and they do well finding the right mix of youth and aged veterans. Bell was the defensive rookie of the year with the Steelers and looked like he was going to be a star before getting injured in his second year and never really returned to his previous form http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Ah yes tax time is near and the pain of seeing how much money we fork over to cause deep pain in our stomachs. Then of course there is all the good that comes from it, such as members of congress spending the day listening to the he said she said of Roger Clemens and Brian McNamee (don't forget Andy Pettitte too) and now a new wonderful word "Nannygate", ugh what has this world come to? Add to that Arlen Specter grilling NFL commissioner Roger Goodell over the spygate issue, threatening congressional hearings and the league's antitrust exemption. Do these blowhard's not have anything better to do with their days??? Do we not have any serious issues to be tackled in this great country that we have time to bicker and seek headlines with this crap? Hey guys call me when you fix the economy, health care, homelessness in this rich country and a list longer than.... then we can get around to which retired baseball players did what. Other than Barry Bonds the rest of this is ridiculous and makes me not want to pay attention to the sports we all love so much. This country has become addicted to soap opera's and reality crap where everyone wants their 15 minutes. It's not like this is all brand new, the Steelers of the 70s admittedly used steroids and they certainly were not alone but no one is calling to take back their Super Bowl wins. Lester Hayes is probably my favorite corner of all time, but he reported used something to help him get a better grip. Can we all just move on and focus on trying to fix things rather than going over the top about the past. Either way Roger was dominant, the Patriots were superior and as much as it pains us Bonds was a Hall of Famer before they all crossed the line http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Well there will be no finishing perfect this year and unfortunately we still have to put up with the aging Dolphins and their damn interviews and quotes for years going forward. The Giants ended the Patriots drive for the perfect season with a great game. They open with a great drive but could only finish with a field goal, but their defense was able to hold the mighty Patriots offense in check. Both QB's had good 4th quarters, but Manning led the ultimate to win the game and get the critics off his back. To think where this team was in week three it was an amazing run http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Chargers had high hopes coming into the NFC Championship, but the Patriots drive to perfection continues. LT wasn't able to go beyond the first series, though Phillip Rivers made it the distance. The Chargers made it a long way from where their season started and look to be better next year, but this season seems to belong to the Patriots who even when in trouble, calmly find their way out of it http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net This year has been interesting, more than I can remember in the last 5 years combined there are so many coaches withdrawing from consideration or not even wanting to interview for head coaching job this year it is getting comical. The latest is Seahawks assistant Jim Mora who has pulled out of consideration with the Redskins... let that lead to rumors about Mike Holmgren. Anyway it seems Gregg Williams is the man there anyway http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The season of obvious awards continues with Patriots QB Tom Brady winning the league MVP award. He took 49 of the 50 votes with Packers QB Brett Favre the only remaining vote. Brady simply was amazing this year and it makes you wonder what more he could have done in the past with more receivers. He and Randy Moss seem to have brought out the best in each other and tore up opposing defenses all year. Brady set the single season passing touchdown record with 50, one better than Peyton Manning in his MVP season http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Yet another win for the Patriots... ESPN is reporting that offensive coordinator and QB coach Josh McDaniels will not interview for any head coaching jobs this year. The Falcons and Ravens were interested and Bill Parcells might have brought him in to pick his mind a bit as well. At only 31 years old and in his second season as a coordinator he may be making the wise if not usual decision. He is short on experience and with a great organization where he will be able to grow. After all Bill Belichick won't coach forever either. McDaniels will continue to run a top offense for the foreseeable and will have more than his share of opportunities. You could say things may change and take it when offered as assistants who are hot one year and disappear in a year or two as has happened many times. But jumping at the first opportunity especially if you are not ready can set you back even further. Personally it would be hard to leave the Patriots right now and this just serves as another win for them http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Not much in the way of surprises in the award season as today Bill Belichick was named as the AP coach of the year. He won with 29 votes, Packers coach Mike McCarthy was second with 15 of the 50 available votes. You can talk about spygate if want, but seriously they went 16-0.... who else did more than that? The Packers 13-3 season was great, but even a 15-1 season is a long ways from 16-0! Sygate happened during the first game and had no effect on the rest of the year. Belichick without doubt deserved the award and if anything we are surprised he didn't get more votes! Dallas' Wade Phillips and Jacksonville's Jack Del Rio each got 2 votes, and Indianapolis' Tony Dungy and Tampa Bay's Jon Gruden got one each to round out the voting http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Ok so the hardest pick on the schedule this week is the game in New England, does anyone give the Jets a chance? Remember this the Patriots have shown cracks in the last few weeks and Magini knows them. Usually it is a team like this that can slip up the great teams. Ok that said, no they don't have much of a chance and the Patriots who don't need the extra reason to play hard certainly have it from the Jets. If there is one team they want to crush this is that team. They are not talking about the spygate issues, but do you think they forgot, this one could get ugly http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net ESPN has been handed some miserable games for their pricey Monday night schedule and this week figured to be the same as most thought the Patriots would run over the Ravens who have been slumping. However the Ravens came out looking to make a statement, and "boy" did they ever... more on that in a moment. Their defense did the unheard of in pressuring and hitting Tom Brady and the howling winds helped limit their passing game. In the end depending on who you ask it came down to a Patriots win in different ways. The Ravens see the officials as helping the Pats, others us included saw the Ravens making too many mistakes, a common theme of theirs. Much has been made of the head linesman supposedly calling Samari Rolle "boy" which is what caused Bart Scott to lose his mind and get 30 yards of penalties. If he did say it he should be suspended for sure, but regardless the Ravens need to be able to hold themselves better together. That isn't to say it wasn't wrong, but the reaction didn't help their situation. In the end if the officials were out to get the Ravens they had an easy call on the final Hail Mary when Asante Samuel was tackled as he tried to defend the bomb, easy call that was let go. Can you imagine the uproar if they would have gotten in the end zone on that play and the flag wasn't thrown http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The NFL suffered a tragedy with the loss of Redskins safety Sean Taylor who was shot in his home during a suspected buglary, he was 24 years old. We extend our sympathy to Sean's family, friends and teammates http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net I swear watching the Patriots these days is like watching some kid playing Madden 08. To say that they are playing on another level than every other team is an understatement. Oh and good thing the NFL moved this game to NBC in prime time as it was much more competitive than the Seahawks 30-23 win over the Bears. And to think they lost their own first round pick next year but as a compensation they get the 49ers pick, which is most likely going to be a top five pick. Without the Dolphins futility it could even be #1, wow that's good because they certainly need the help, ugh for everyone else http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Buffalo Bills season is heading south, that is the nice way of saying it. Another way would be swirling down the porcelain... after a 38-7 loss to the Patriots. J.P. Losman left the game with a knee injury and Trent Edwards was no match for the Patriots defense. On offense Tom Brady and Randy Moss continue to ake it look easy. Brady threw for 311 yards completing almost 80% of his passes and Moss had 115 yards and a pair of TDs http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Bills QB J.P. Losman is out with a kne injury and rookie Trent Edwards is in against a smart and tough Pariots D http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Never upset a team as good as the Patriots. With all the talk this week about did they really win the Super Bowls and are they really as good as we thought, the coaches took a back seat as the players made their statement against the Chargers. An impressive 38-14 win. The Pats D held Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson to 43 yards as he has yet to get going this year and Norv Turner will start getting some heat as the offense put up only 201 total yards compared to 407 for the Patriots http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have resigned LB Chad Brown as was likely planned when they released him in their final cuts. Now his salary is not fully guaranteed for the year. To make space they released LB David Herron who they signed from the Vikings under curious circumstances according to some. They also signed center Dan Connolly to their practice squad and worked out QB David Greene, P Dirk Johnson and RB Wali Lundy on Tuesday according to the Boston Globe http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Carolina Panthers have signed former Patriots TE Christian Fauria http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net So the Patriots were impressive in the opening win, they better be even more impressive in the their own defense with the league offices this week over the alleged spying during the Jets game. Rumors insist the punishment will be high and based on the player conduct penalties we don't doubt it. Though we agree trying to steal signs is part of sports, video taping things may be going a bit too far http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Redskins have signed former Patriots receiver Reche Caldwell to a one year deal according to the Washington Post. Also right tackle Jon Jansen was placed on IR http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots looked ready to start the season as they walked over the Jets. Ellis Hobbs set a new NFL record with a 108 yard kickoff return for a TD and Randy Moss looked like the Moss of old getting 183 yards receiving including a nice long TD grab from Tom Brady who looks good for our prediction after one game http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net No real surprise but the Patriots have activated Asante Samuel for the opener against the Jets. Ah the games we play, as if anyone believed he wouldn't be in the lineup http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots will be without starting DE Richard Seymour for at least the first 6 games of the year as the team kept him on the PUP list http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Patriots safety Rodney Harrison is used to being in trouble with the league for his hard hits, but this time word is he will be suspended for 4 games according to ESPN for admitting he obtained HGH http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have signed veteran punter Chris Hanson http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Houston Texans have placed LT Charles Spencer on the PUP list to start the season and released FB Patrick Pass, who came over from the Patriots this year. He was a key versatile player for the Patriots but didn't fit as well as a straight fullback in Houston http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Patriots franchise CB Asante Samuel will report to the team today ending his holdout according to the Providence Journal. Samuel has sat out all off season maintaining he would sit until the 10th week of the season in protest of the franchise tag... yet they always report. Yawn....... what else is happening on Monday http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Patriots QB Tom Brady is ready to go for the season opener. In this week's pre-season game he went 17 of 21 passes for 167 yards and two touchdowns, not bad for the season's dress rehearsal http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Patriots franchise CB Asante Samuel may be coming in soon.. lots of reports out there saying it might be time. Of course it is, payday is coming. You didn't really think he'd sit out 10 games and give up a pro-rated share of almost $8 million for the year did you http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Here is a great article by Fox Sports' John Czarnecki about how the NFL rookie are being paid way too much. "It doesn't make sense that LaRon Landry is the highest paid safety in the game," Cowboys executive Stephen Jones told me. "And that Joe Thomas (Cleveland's top pick) has a better deal than Tom Brady. For example, Chiefs running back Larry Johnson signed yesterday for less guaranteed money than what Johnson and Thomas collected, and only a moron would say those rookies deserve more than one of the NFL's best running backs... we're right there with you John, good work http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots finally signed QB Vinny Testaverde to a contract which has been known for quite a while this off season http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots have activated WR Donté Stallworth from the PUP list and he will begin practicing with the team and the highly upgraded receiving corp http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Chicago Bears continue to trade veterans from their secondary for draft picks. This time it was Dante Wesley heading to New England for a late round pick next year. Wesley was on his way out whether via trade or release and the Patriots needed help in the secondary as usual see Wesley as a good fit in their secondary. He has good size and will be able to play safety or corner for the Pats http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots secondary is thinning already, CB Chad Scott is done for the year with a knee injury and Asante Samuel is still holding out though he just got some more bargaining power. The Pats had a strong off season but the injury bug has been a problem for long time http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots are close to signing their top pick S Brandon Meriweather according to the Boston Globe and he hopes to be at the first team practice at 5:30 today http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Patriots cornerback Asante Samuel told the Boston Globe he plans to stt out until the 10th week of the year as he is not happy with being franchised. He feel he isn't getting he respect he deserves. To that point he didn't show up for a team charity event, where is the respect there http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have never been big players in free agency, that changed this year! Last year they had a serious lack of talent at wide receiver, that has changed too. New starters Randy Moss and Donte Stallworth, Wes Welker as the #3. They also added Kelley Washington from the Bengals, and had last years second round pick Chad Jackson and free agent pickups from last year Reche Caldwell and Jabar Gaffney... there will be some competition in camp! Tom Brady has to have a big smile on his face today, he will have a much better year in 2007 http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The NFL Network is reporting if Randy Moss passes a physical he will be traded to the New England Patriots who will have added their 4th new wide receiver this off season. The Patriots will send a 4th round pick to Oakland http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots made an interesting choice to take a first round pick next year and a 4th from the 49ers this year. The 49ers are on the rise and expect to make the playoffs next year. If they do and the choice is in the low 20s then the 49ers won the trade. They now have 2 first rounders and still a second 2 thirds and 3 picks in the 4th round. Along with all their free agents they will look totally different next year. The Patriots think the draft will be better next year or that the 49ers won't be as good, but not taking a linebacker was quite surprising. We think the 49ers got the better of the trade. The choice of Joe Staley is a question. They needed a lineman and he has a great upside but is not an immediate big impact guy http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The 49ers had 10 picks coming into the draft and wanted to trade into the late first round to get a second first rounder and now 4 in 2 years. They got the Patriots pick at #28 and selected OT Joe Staley. They are looking to the future as they have three free agents on the offensive line after this year. Staley isn't forced to start to this year and has a great upside. He is still growing into his body and has great athleticism. The line was a concern and needed to be addressed early. Getting a tackle isn't easy and Staley has the ability and was a good choice. The 49ers traded their first round pick in 2008 and a 4th round pick to get Staley. A risky pick depending on where they are selecting next year. They still have their second round pick and are going to really improve themselves his year http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots like good character guys and Brandon Meriweather isn't the highest character guy, but the Patriots took a chance on him taking him at #24. They have taken chance before on some fringe guys relying on the organization to help out the troubled player. Meriweather has talent and speed and fills a need at safety for them. He can cover a slot receiver and learn from Rodney Harrison. The team did the homework on him and are comfortable with him... just talent wise it was a good pick http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net According to the NFL Network Randy Moss has refused to redo his contract for the Raiders but he would be willing to restructure his deal after a trade to the Patriots http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The rumor mill is picking back up for Randy Moss now too. The Raiders want to move the receiver despite their comments to the contrary and the Packers and Patriots are being mentioned as they were before. Other teams may get in before it is all said and done but it looks like he may have a new home by Monday http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots signed long snapper Tony Case to a one year deal at minimum salary. He was signed as an undrafted free agent last year by the Bills but never made it to camp with them http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Punter Todd Sauerbrun is a free agent, at least for now. He won his freedom from Special Master Stephen Burbank on a technicality, what a system. The contract he signed last year with the Patriots included a rights of first refusal clause, but since that was not put in a separate clause and signed it made the clause void due the collective bargaining agreement... don't you just love that? Expect Sauerbrun to sign with the Broncos quickly as the Patriots matched the offer sheet they signed him to http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots have agreed to terms with former Bengals cornerback Tory James. He will sign a one year deal worth $1.35 that could be worth up to $2.7 million with incentives according to the Boston Globe. The 34 year old veteran will provide some depth in the secondary for the Patriots who always seem to lacking it there due to injuries. James has been durable and productive, he is a savvy veteran and should do well in the Patriots scheme. The move lessens the need to add a corner early in the draft though a safety is still likely http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New Orleans Saints have signed veteran WR David Patten to a one year contract. Patten spent the last two years in the witness protection program, perfectly hidden at the bottom of the Redskins depth chart after successful years with the Patriots. Patten is a good addition for the Saints. Without Joe Horn this year, Patten's experience will help Drew Brees and compliment the younger receivers http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Former Cowboys QB Drew Bledsoe has decided to retire after 14 years in the NFL. The former number one overall pick in 1993 finishes 5th of the all time list for attempts and completions and 7th for passing yards http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New York Jets met with both Bengals offensive lineman Stacy Andrews and Patriots cornerback, both restricted free agents, but those visits ended without any offers according to a Newsday report http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Bengals restricted free agent guard Stacy Andrews in in New York visiting with the Jets along with Patriots cornerback Randall Gay today according to the Cincinnati Enquirer http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots have matched the Denver Broncos offer to punter Todd Sauerbrun and will retain him for one year. http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net New England Patriots CB Asante Samuel is not so happy right now according to the NFL Network. He says he and the Patriots are a long ways from a contract agreement and if a long term deal can't be reached he wants to be traded. http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Denver Broncos have signed punter Todd Sauerbrun to a one year offer sheet according to the Denver Post. It is incentive based and guarantees they will not name him as a transition or franchise player next year. The New England Patriots can match the offer but because Sauerbrun really wants to play in Denver and they have a couple other punters expect them not to match it. The contract is just set up hoping they won't. Sauerbrun told the Post his heart is in Denver and this is really where he wants play http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The NFL has pulled the plug on the preseason game in China between the Seahawks and Patriots saying they will focus on the regular season game in London this year (mistake). They would still like to play a preseason game in China in 2009, we're breathless in anticipation http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net New Patriots WR Tony Brown, said last week he wanted to play again and coach Belichick says he wants him back as well. Brown has lost a step but is dependable and versatile and everything Belichick wants of his players http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots have resigned four exclusive rights or restricted free agents: safety Rashad Baker, linebacker Corey Mays, offensive lineman Gene Mruczkowski and defensive lineman Mike Wright http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots have resigned WR Bam Childress http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots signed another player from the Miami Dolphins, CB Eddie Jackson who has good size and will add depth to a secondary in need of it http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The rumors won't die about Randy Moss to Green Bay. Now the Boston Herald has joined in citing a source in Wisconsin that says the deal is close and will include QB Aaron Rodgers. Don't put too much in this report... it has been out there for a while and it may come true, but this specific report doesn't mean much to us. The Herald has been reposting others reports lately it seems than having their own 'sources' about a deal. The Boston Herald having great sources in Wisconsin is interesting as well. Rodgers clearly doesn't look like the future in Green Bay and the Raiders will still need more depth even if they take JaMarcus Russell and Rodgers would probably like to come back home after playing college at Cal http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots will look at another linebacker today when they put University of Miami LB Jon Beason through a private workout according to the Boston Globe. They need depth at inside linebacker and need to look at other options than just Patrick Willis in the first round. Beason would be moved inside with the Patriots after playing the weak side in a college 4-3, most consider his best position is weak side in a Cover 2 scheme. The Patriots are without a second round pick this year, but will look at Beason and Willis with their two first round picks, or at Buster Davis possibly in the third round. David Harris and Brandon Siler are other prospects but they will likely go in the second round http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Daniel Snyder has moved to Boston... ok maybe not but Robert Kraft and the Patriots are sure being aggressive in free agency. Add former Bengals WR Kelley Washington to their catch. Just as with Donte' Stallworth's contract it has protection according to ESPN. It can be a one year deal or a max of 5 years for $22 million. Washington has great size, speed and talent and is a great addition to what is quickly becoming a deep group of receivers. The Dolphins were also after Washington http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Updating the contract for new Patriots receiver Donte Stallworth. It starts as a one year $3.6 million deal according to ESPN. In year two there two roster bonuses due totaling $8 million. So the Patriots are well protected if they cut him after just one year http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Former Eagles WR Donte' Stallworth has finally cashed and with the newest spender on the block, the New England Patriots. According to ESPN the deal is worth more than $30 million for 6 years and has $12 million in guarantees. Stallworth has great deep speed but hasn't never lived up to expectations missing time last year with hamstring problems. He has the potential to be great, or close to it, and can stretch the field... but we keep coming back to one question. Why not just have signed Deion Branch last year? Ok so maybe that is part of what taught them a lesson, and they got a first round pick in return but he had a great rapport with Tom Brady already and didn't get much more than they just gave Donte'. Definitely a change of face in New England, and we have to wonder about the potential for it to backfire http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots visited with former Bengals WR Kelley Washington Friday according to the Boston Herald. The Patriots look to add more depth at receiver and Washington could be an interesting addition. He had visited the Dolphins earlier http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net After an average combine Florida safety Reggie Nelson was in trouble of falling out of the first round. He had a great pro day running between 4.31 and 4.35 seconds according to the Florida Times Union. This will bring him back into the first round. The Cowboys will have to consider him as a polar opposite to Roy Williams. Nelson is a bit small and won't help against the run but is a great center fielder. Another team who will be looking at him in the first round is the New England Patriots http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots are interested in former Falcons LB Edgerton Hartwell according to the Boston Globe. The Patriots have good depth at outside linebacker but are lacking depth inside especially considering Tedy Bruschi is nearing the end. Hartwell was a star in Baltimore before going to Atlanta and disappearing. He still could be the solid veteran player the Patriots love to pick up to provide depth. They will still be certainly drafting a linebacker early in the draft. Most have them targeting Patrick Willis would would be a great pick, but also watch for Brandon Siler in the third round http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net As expected when the Seahawks landed Patrick Kerney, the Broncos would then take the lead for Patriots tight end Daniel Graham who agreed to terms with the Broncos Tuesday night. According to the Boston Globe it is a 5 year $30 million deal with $15 million guaranteed making him the highest paid tight in the league. The Broncos drafted Tony Scheffler last year in the second round and is now destined to be #2 on the depth chart. Graham will likely end Stephen Alexanders career in Denver http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots have have resigned linebacker and special teams standout Larry Izzo http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The San Francisco 49ers are close to a contract agreement with Patriots OLB Tully Banta-Cain according to Matt Maiocco of the Press Democrat, it should be finalized shortly http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots decided to trade an additional 7th round pick plus the 2nd to the Dolphins for WR Wes Welker to avoid having to add a poison pill to the contract and inflating the value according to Adam Schefter of the NFL Network. The deal was signed was for 5 years and $18.1 million. A much more acceptable value as well http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots may not be done adding receivers, according to Adam Schefter of the NFL Network the team will meet with Donte Stallworth Tuesday and as we reported earlier he may be willing to take a one year deal with the Patriots to re-establish himself. H is also scheduled to visit with Tennessee on Wednesday http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Don't buy into the Randy Moss trade rumors too much. Reports are everywhere on the internet of the Raiders close to trading him. The Jaguars had been mentioned but are out after signing Dennis Northcutt (not that he is a top starter, but they have enough warm bodies now), the Packers and Patriots are also being heavily mentioned. Everyone take a deep breath though. The Patriots just signed Wes Welker and as much as Brett Favre would like Randy Moss in Green Bay it isn't going to happen too soon if ever. Still scratching our heads over it but the Packers won't dismiss it http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Pittsburgh Steelers will host Patriots OLB Tully Banta-Cain Tuesday as they look for a replacement for Joey Porter. Banta-Cain is a pass rush specialist and can play OLB or rush end as the Steelers potentially transition to a 4-3 defense this year or next http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net It was a busy Monday for the Miami Dolphins who traded restricted free agent Wes Welker to the Patriots for a second and seventh round draft pick. They also released tight end Randy McMichael and quarterback Joey Harrington, and as reported previously they signed former Packers TE David Martin. Welker was tendered at a second round level, the Patriots added the seventh round pick to complete the deal today rather than giving the Dolphins seven days to match the offer which would leave the Patriots waiting to see if they needed to make other moves, while other receivers likely found new homes. Welker hasn't put up great numbers but he is very talented and versatile and the Patriots will take full advantage of his talents http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have not yet signed Dolphins restricted free agent Wes Welker to the offer sheet that was widely reported over the weekend. He is visiting with the team today, but the reports of the offer may have been a bit premature, though still likely. Rumors are growing about the Patriots interest in Raiders WR Randy Moss as well. One problem there is Moss' contract has a nearly $10 million salary this year and most any team that would trade for him would need to renegotiate it, but given his history do team's want to sink a huge signing bonus in him without seeing a change first http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net New England Patriots LB Don Davis has retired after 11 years in the NFL according to the Boston Globe. He was a versatile player the Patriots loved on defense http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Adam Schefter of the NFL Network has confirmed the contract numbers of the story we broke yesterday of $7.5 million a year for new Patriots LB Adalius Thomas. He reports it as a 5 year $37.5 million contract with $24 million in the first three years. Not bad numbers for someone considered the #2 player in free agency especially after Nate Clements got $80 million of 8 years, though we are sure there is some back loading in that contract. We'll wait for the final numbers and see what it is over the first five or six years http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Updating the offer sheet to Wes Welker. According to Adam Schefter it is for $38.5 million over 7 years, now that will make the Dolphins think. They will get a second round pick in return if they don't match, but remember it is at the end of the round. He is an emerging talent who the Patriots have seen twice a year. Last year he caught 67 passes for 687 yards and the Patriots are banking on that as been just the start. They certainly are reversing the trend of not spending too much in free agency. Our question is wouldn't it have been better to give Deion Branch the 6 year $39 million deal he got in Seattle last year http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots have signed former Jaguars TE Kyle Brady to a 2 year $5.3 million contract with a $2 million signing bonus according to the Florida Times Union http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net It looks like the Seattle Seahawks will get a chance to sign Patriots TE Daniel Graham. The Broncos are trying hard to sign him and there were reports earlier in the day that the deal was done, those turned out to be false and now Graham will head to Seattle on Saturday http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots are very close to signing Ravens OLB Adalius Thomas, the deal could still be announced today. While not completed the number will be basically be $7.5 million per year and $17 million guaranteed. The 49ers are the only real compeition at this point, but the Patriots have his ear and shortly probably his signature to go with it http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net As expected the Patriots have released RB Corey Dillon http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots are not waiting to replace TE Daniel Graham who is leaving via free agency. They are scheduling a visit from Jaguars Kyle Brady http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The San Francisco 49ers are talking with Patriots OLB Tully Banta-Cain according to the Santa Rosa Press Democrat. The 49ers need depth but this may be a sign they don't have Adalius Thomas locked up. Banta-Cain was on his way to visit with another team, if nothing happens to quick there he could be headed to San Francisco for a visit http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots may be a little more aggressive this year in free agency. They placed the franchise tag on Asante Samuel already and are making a big push for Ravens LB Adalius Thomas. The 49ers are the front runner and were rumored to have a deal in place already. The 49ers will offer more money, but the Patriots will put a big offer on the table as well http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net According to ESPN Patriots tight end Daniel Graham will make his first visit to Denver and then onto Seattle http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Tomorrow morning isn't Christmas but may seem like it in some NFL cities as free agency begins . There will be some quick signing and the sticker price will shock and awe http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots have resigned RB Heath Evans to a 2 year contract. Evans has proven his versatility in the backfield and is also a solid special teams player, exactly the type of guy they want in New England http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Patriots RB Corey Dillon says it may be time to call it a career. According to the Boston Globe he is preparing to ask for his release and may retire. He hasn't ruled out finding that itch and coming back again, but it appears that won't happen in New England where his role would be even more diminished http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Baltimore Ravens do not want to lose Adalius Thomas, but they will not use the franchise tag to keep him. They hope to work out a long term contract with him, but with him on the open market some teams are going to be coming with a lot of cash. The 49ers and his old coach Mike Nolan need someone like him desperately. Cleveland and the Jets will also be interested. Other than the price tag he would be a great fit in New England as well. That just scratches the surface of the teams that will be interested http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots have released safety Tebucky Jones after he spent the entire year on injured reserve. He was originally drafted by the Patriots but was traded to the Saints after being slapped with the franchise tag in 2003. The Patriots hoped to get another crafty veteran in the secondary but that didn't work out http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots have named Nick Caserio their WR coach according to the Boston Globe. He was previously the team's director of pro personnel http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Patriots decided they were not going to lose CB Asante Samuel so they placed the franchise tag on him guaranteeing him a one year $7.79 million contract. The former 4th round pick from UCF has become one of the top young cornerbacks in the league, and now the Patriots will try and get him signed to a long term contract. The move means TE Daniel Graham will most likely leave in free agency. It also takes another premier player out of free agency and puts Nate Clements as the top corner available. Bidding for him will go up quickly and it won't take long for him to find a new home, and with guaranteed money likely of about $15 million it will be a nice home at that http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The Jets have hired Brian Daboll as their new wide receivers coach. He had held the same position with the New England Patriots previously http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net Look for competition at right tackle for the Patriots between Nick Kaczur and second year pro Ryan O’Callaghan next year http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots are know for not being big spenders in free agency and have let some of their big players go as well due to the cost. In the past they have used the franchise tag only 3 times, two of them on kicker Adam Vinatieri, not a bad choice by the way. The other time was on safety Tebucky Jones who was actually traded to the Saints rather than playing with the tag in New England. So will the Patriots use the tag this year? Cornerback Asante Samuel and tight end Daniel Graham are the two biggest free agents. Samuel is someone the team can't afford to lose, a great young player at a premium position, but he is set to get a big payday this off season and wouldn't be happy to be franchised. Graham may be easier for the team as the franchise amount for tight ends in much less than for corners and notice the two positions the team has used the tag on were 2 of the lowest amounts. The Patriots have depth at tight end and are unlikely to tag Samuel... look for both to be gone next year http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31 PFInsider.net The New England Patriots will need to really revamp the linebackers position this off season. Tedy Bruschi is getting up there in years and is starting to show and Tully Banta-Cain is a free agent as well. Youth is needed to develop but a veteran presence will be important as well. Age in the secondary points to Rodney Harrison and some depth is needed, not to mention the glaring hole that will likely be at one corner spot after Asante Samuel leaves in free agency. With two late first round picks the Patriots will be in good shape to replenish some needs http://www.pfinsider.net/team.php?tid=31