Indefinite New England Patriots Thread (1 Viewer)

[ratbast]

They need to keep Maye alive.

 

[kyoun1e]

Will be curious to see what the Pats do now that the C. Kupp dream is over.

Still think they need to add a FA WR of some kind that is above the level of say, KJ Osborne. Somebody who can raise the floor of the WR room, add to the culture, and actually produce. Some names:

- S. Diggs: Coming off a big injury. Diva. No thanks.
- A. Cooper: If they can get him cheap, sure, although rumors at the combine are that he's washed.
- Dionte Johnson: He's a headache, but he has talent and I don't think he'll ever be cheaper. Cut him in camp if he's a problem.
- K. Allen: Maybe he's got one year left?
- T. Lockett: Not a good sign that Seattle cut him even with DK on the trade block.

I'd probably take a wack at Cooper.

There's a ton of other options in the next tier down. Think Cooks, Agholor, Woods, Reynolds, Chark, etc. I say why bother? I'd rather see what Boutte, Polk, Baker, Pop can do with a clean slate.

Trade? Everyone keeps talking about J. Meyers, but why would LV even make him available? Aiyuk? Coming off a big injury and don't think he even would want to be here. Maybe GB? They have a few young guys there maybe they'd trade on? Be curious if there is a team I'm not thinking of here.

Then of course the draft.

- If Hunter is there, take him.
- T. McMillan: Really doubt they take him at 4. They could trade down a bit. I personally don't love him.
- L. Burden, E. Egbuka, M. Golden: They could trade back into the back half of the first round and grab one of these guys.
- 2nd / Third Round: I think they WILL draft a WR here. My personal favorite: Jayden Higgins, Iowa State. Others: Tre Harris, Jack Bech, Jalen Royals.

Now they could just semi-punt on the position and go TE in the draft. I'd expect them to draft one for sure. We know McDaniel's loves his two TEs.

I wonder if T. Warren could be an option at 4 or especially if they trade down? There's also a ton of depth in the draft at TE...good year to target one.

Well, we'll see how it all plays out.

I would also like to see what these WR's can do ... with an above average O-line.
Imagine if Maye had 3 (or 5) seconds to allow WR's to get open before having to pull the trigger.
I'd prefer NE trade down from #4 and fill more holes elsewhere. Maybe pick up a bonus pick or two in 2026.
I might be asking a lot but my vision for this team is a well balanced offense behind a capable O-line ... and a dominant defense at all 3 levels.
I don't think they need an "ELITE" WR to make this happen.

I'd agree with you that we don't need elite at WR.

Maye seemed perfectly capable last year with a hodge podge of WRs. If he had a decent O line I think he'd still be more than productive.

 

[Anarchy99]

Maye seemed perfectly capable last year with a hodge podge of WRs. If he had a decent O line I think he'd still be more than productive.

I don't have the answers for NE. That being said, Maye's numbers did not indicate what you just posted. With up to 2.5 seconds in the pocket to throw, Maye had a 97.6 passer rating, was intercepted on 1.3% of attempts, and was sacked on 6.6% of drop backs. When he had more than 2.5 seconds in the pocket to throw, his passer rating was 69.1, had an interception percentage of 6.2%, and was sacked on 13.7% of drop backs (and his YPA dropped by nearly 1.5). That seems counterintuitive to what should have happened. Not sure if that's a systemic thing that short timing routes were better covered due to more guys in coverage and no one got open. But that combination of outcomes was . . . not good.

 

[Anarchy99]

NE said not to be interested in any of the remaining FA on the market and are not negotiating with any of them. Apparently they will see what happens in the draft, who gets released, and who may be available via trade closer to the season starting.

 

[Boston]

NE said not to be interested in any of the remaining FA on the market and are not negotiating with any of them. Apparently they will see what happens in the draft, who gets released, and who may be available via trade closer to the season starting.

In a very big picture I understand this...they have done an excellent job on the defensive side of the ball in free agency and outside of Godwin and Stanley who they are reported to have made big pushes for but did not land there aren't/weren't many offensive players that were too appealing...they also appear to be very serious with building a new culture with who they bring in which is very smart...unfortunately the bottom-line is they have gigantic holes all over their offense and not doing anything is unacceptable...regardless of how good the defense is next year Drake Maye's development (and health) is the most important thing for this franchise and quite frankly there isn't a close second...as far as offensive personnel go they are setting him up for failure...they can potentially add some quality pieces in the draft but as we all know that is an inexact science...I do believe in Vrabel and will remain patient (as painful as that may be right now) and have faith he understands this situation as well but they still have a lot of work to do on the offensive-side of the ball and at least right now not a ton of options to accomplish it...something has to give here.

 

[kyoun1e]

Maye seemed perfectly capable last year with a hodge podge of WRs. If he had a decent O line I think he'd still be more than productive.

I don't have the answers for NE. That being said, Maye's numbers did not indicate what you just posted. With up to 2.5 seconds in the pocket to throw, Maye had a 97.6 passer rating, was intercepted on 1.3% of attempts, and was sacked on 6.6% of drop backs. When he had more than 2.5 seconds in the pocket to throw, his passer rating was 69.1, had an interception percentage of 6.2%, and was sacked on 13.7% of drop backs (and his YPA dropped by nearly 1.5). That seems counterintuitive to what should have happened. Not sure if that's a systemic thing that short timing routes were better covered due to more guys in coverage and no one got open. But that combination of outcomes was . . . not good.

Metrics be damned. I know what my eyes see in him.

Marginally improve the weapons, marginally improve the OL, have a better defense that provides more opportunities, I think it's a slam dunk we see a significantly improved offensive situation.

I'm a strong believer in Drake Maye.

 

[kyoun1e]

NE said not to be interested in any of the remaining FA on the market and are not negotiating with any of them. Apparently they will see what happens in the draft, who gets released, and who may be available via trade closer to the season starting.

Strange.

There seem to be some cheap options out there that can help.

 

[Kraft...]

I'm guessing they are waiting for some guys to get a bit humbled and prices will come down. Someone like Cam Rob on a one year prove it type deal for instance.

 

[Bri]

Do you know the Cardinals roster at all?
Monte is their buddy.
If there's a friendly sort of 5th LB for 5th CB type trade to be had, they'd definitely do that type.
There's maybe something to be said for a non patriots and non Titans player too.

 

[Bri]

Radio just now Titans and Pats have strong interest in Ayomanor in the second due to his blocking.
Here's a link

Elic Ayomanor Wide Receiver Stanford | NFL Draft Profile & Scouting Report

Rating: 85.4 Rank: #10 Forty: 4.44 Ayomanor projects as a high-end WR2 with legitimate WR1 upside, warranting strong consideration in the second round. His exceptional work in the intermedia...

www.nfldraftbuzz.com

Older posters know of Meshawn being asked to block and Chrebet and that whole thing. Vrabel is a lot like Belichick in that when he's not paying attention a little Parcells will come out of his mouth. I like it. It shows Vrabel the player paid close attention to what BB was teaching. He didn't play for him and theoretically shouldn't know Parcells stuff...but he does.

 

[Boston]

Radio just now Titans and Pats have strong interest in Ayomanor in the second due to his blocking.
Here's a link

Elic Ayomanor Wide Receiver Stanford | NFL Draft Profile & Scouting Report

Rating: 85.4 Rank: #10 Forty: 4.44 Ayomanor projects as a high-end WR2 with legitimate WR1 upside, warranting strong consideration in the second round. His exceptional work in the intermedia...

www.nfldraftbuzz.com

Older posters know of Meshawn being asked to block and Chrebet and that whole thing. Vrabel is a lot like Belichick in that when he's not paying attention a little Parcells will come out of his mouth. I like it. It shows Vrabel the player paid close attention to what BB was teaching. He didn't play for him and theoretically shouldn't know Parcells stuff...but he does.

Romeo Crennel was his DC from 01-04 and he is a Parcells guy.

 

[Anarchy99]

Radio just now Titans and Pats have strong interest in Ayomanor in the second due to his blocking.
Here's a link

Elic Ayomanor Wide Receiver Stanford | NFL Draft Profile & Scouting Report

Rating: 85.4 Rank: #10 Forty: 4.44 Ayomanor projects as a high-end WR2 with legitimate WR1 upside, warranting strong consideration in the second round. His exceptional work in the intermedia...

www.nfldraftbuzz.com

Older posters know of Meshawn being asked to block and Chrebet and that whole thing. Vrabel is a lot like Belichick in that when he's not paying attention a little Parcells will come out of his mouth. I like it. It shows Vrabel the player paid close attention to what BB was teaching. He didn't play for him and theoretically shouldn't know Parcells stuff...but he does.

Please, NE . . . don't do it. NFL.com has Ayomanor as the #15 WR prospect and #102 prospect overall. His profile mentions a lack of speed, a lack of getting separation, and a lot of drops. Why on earth would they want to take a blocking WR way earlier than he is slated to get picked? At best, he's a project. They don't need ANOTHER WR project. They've had plenty of those.

 

[kyoun1e]

Radio just now Titans and Pats have strong interest in Ayomanor in the second due to his blocking.
Here's a link

Elic Ayomanor Wide Receiver Stanford | NFL Draft Profile & Scouting Report

Rating: 85.4 Rank: #10 Forty: 4.44 Ayomanor projects as a high-end WR2 with legitimate WR1 upside, warranting strong consideration in the second round. His exceptional work in the intermedia...

www.nfldraftbuzz.com

Older posters know of Meshawn being asked to block and Chrebet and that whole thing. Vrabel is a lot like Belichick in that when he's not paying attention a little Parcells will come out of his mouth. I like it. It shows Vrabel the player paid close attention to what BB was teaching. He didn't play for him and theoretically shouldn't know Parcells stuff...but he does.

Please, NE . . . don't do it. NFL.com has Ayomanor as the #15 WR prospect and #102 prospect overall. His profile mentions a lack of speed, a lack of getting separation, and a lot of drops. Why on earth would they want to take a blocking WR way earlier than he is slated to get picked? At best, he's a project. They don't need ANOTHER WR project. They've had plenty of those.

Right. We just got M. Hollins who is a good blocker.

How about we get WRs who actually a) Run fast, b) Can separate, c) Can run good routes, D) Can Catch, and E) Score touchdowns.

 

[Anarchy99]

Right. We just got M. Hollins who is a good blocker.

How about we get WRs who actually a) Run fast, b) Can separate, c) Can run good routes, D) Can Catch, and E) Score touchdowns.

Of the guys in the building currently on staff, here's how they have fared previously in terms of drafting WRs. Mind you, these folks may not have had any say or involvement at all, but here are the players that were drafted when they were around (and the pick number involved):

Mike Vrabel (head coach and personnel consultant)
2019 TEN A.J. Brown 51
2021 TEN Dez Fitzpatrick 109, Racey McGrath 205
2022 TEN Kyle Philips 163
2023 TEN Treylon Burks 18
2024 CLE Jamari Thrash 156

Ryan Cowden (player personnel)
2016 TEN Tajae Sharpe 140
2017 TEN Corey Davis 5, Tawan Taylor 72
2023 NYG Jalin Hyatt 73
2024 NYG Malik Nabers 6

Eliot Wolf (player personnel and scouting)
2013 GB Charles Johnson 216, Kevin Dorsey 224
2014 GB Davante Adams 53, Jared Abbrederis 176
2015 GB Ty Montgomery 94
2016 GB Trevor Davis 163
2017 GB DeAngelo Yancey 175, Malachi Dupre 247
2018 CLE Antonio Callaway 105, Damien Ratley 175
2021 NE Tre Nixon 242
2022 NE Tyquan Thornton 50
2023 NE Kayshon Boutte 187, Demario Douglas 210
2024 NE Ja’Lynn Polk 37, Javon Baker 110

Alonzo Highsmith (player personnel)
Was also with Wolf in GB and CLE
2020 SEA Freddie Swan 214
2021 SEA D’Wayne Eskridge
2022 SEA Bo Melton 229, Dareke Young 233

Josh McDaniels (OC and head coach)
2006 NE Chad Jackson 36
2008 NE Matthew Slater 153
2009 DEN Kenny McKinley 141
2010 DEN Demaryius Thomas 22, Eric Decker 87
2011 STL Austin Pettis 78, Greg Sallas 112
2012 NE Jeremy Ebert 235
2013 NE Aaron Dobson 59, Josh Boyce 102
2014 NE Jeremy Gallon 244
2016 NE Malcolm Mitchell 112
2018 NE Braxton Berrios 210
2019 NE N’Keal Harry 32
2023 LV Tre Tucker 100

Doug Marone (head coach)
2013 BUF Robert Woods 41
2014 BUF Sammy Watkins 4
2017 JAC Dede Westbrook 110
2018 JAC DJ Chark 61
2020 JAC Laviska Shenault 42, Collin Johnson 165

Matt Groh (scouting and player personnel)
Worked with Wolf in his time in NE

Todd Downing (OC)
Worked with Vrabel in TEN

 

[elguapo07]

Radio just now Titans and Pats have strong interest in Ayomanor in the second due to his blocking.
Here's a link

Elic Ayomanor Wide Receiver Stanford | NFL Draft Profile & Scouting Report

Rating: 85.4 Rank: #10 Forty: 4.44 Ayomanor projects as a high-end WR2 with legitimate WR1 upside, warranting strong consideration in the second round. His exceptional work in the intermedia...

www.nfldraftbuzz.com

Older posters know of Meshawn being asked to block and Chrebet and that whole thing. Vrabel is a lot like Belichick in that when he's not paying attention a little Parcells will come out of his mouth. I like it. It shows Vrabel the player paid close attention to what BB was teaching. He didn't play for him and theoretically shouldn't know Parcells stuff...but he does.

Please, NE . . . don't do it. NFL.com has Ayomanor as the #15 WR prospect and #102 prospect overall. His profile mentions a lack of speed, a lack of getting separation, and a lot of drops. Why on earth would they want to take a blocking WR way earlier than he is slated to get picked? At best, he's a project. They don't need ANOTHER WR project. They've had plenty of those.

N’Keal Harry lite comp….what’s not to like.

 

[Anarchy99]

Poked around to read up more on Ayomanor. That article had him ranked way higher than anywhere else. Most places had him as a 3rd round pick and a couple had him as an early Day 3 pick. He missed the 2022 season with a torn ACL / MCL / Meniscus. He essentially had 10% of his career receptions, 16% of his career yardage, and 25% of his career TD all in one game. Maybe he will eventually turn into something but IMO taking him at Pick 38 makes no sense.

 

[Boston]

Poked around to read up more on Ayomanor. That article had him ranked way higher than anywhere else. Most places had him as a 3rd round pick and a couple had him as an early Day 3 pick. He missed the 2022 season with a torn ACL / MCL / Meniscus. He essentially had 10% of his career receptions, 16% of his career yardage, and 25% of his career TD all in one game. Maybe he will eventually turn into something but IMO taking him at Pick 38 makes no sense.

JJ Arcega-Whiteside flashback.

 

[kyoun1e]

Tet McMillan ran 4.48 at his pro day. At 6-4, 219 lbs.

He may not slide. That's pretty damn good for a guy that big.

 

[elguapo07]

Poked around to read up more on Ayomanor. That article had him ranked way higher than anywhere else. Most places had him as a 3rd round pick and a couple had him as an early Day 3 pick. He missed the 2022 season with a torn ACL / MCL / Meniscus. He essentially had 10% of his career receptions, 16% of his career yardage, and 25% of his career TD all in one game. Maybe he will eventually turn into something but IMO taking him at Pick 38 makes no sense.

Wasn’t that game vs Colo and Hunter ?

 

[Anarchy99]

Poked around to read up more on Ayomanor. That article had him ranked way higher than anywhere else. Most places had him as a 3rd round pick and a couple had him as an early Day 3 pick. He missed the 2022 season with a torn ACL / MCL / Meniscus. He essentially had 10% of his career receptions, 16% of his career yardage, and 25% of his career TD all in one game. Maybe he will eventually turn into something but IMO taking him at Pick 38 makes no sense.

Wasn’t that game vs Colo and Hunter ?

I beileve so. IIRC, that was the game Ayomanor pinned the ball against Hunter's helmet for a TD.

- YouTube

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

www.youtube.com

 

[Boston]

Tet McMillan ran 4.48 at his pro day. At 6-4, 219 lbs.

He may not slide. That's pretty damn good for a guy that big.

Has to be on their radar now.

 

[Bri]

Poked around to read up more on Ayomanor. That article had him ranked way higher than anywhere else. Most places had him as a 3rd round pick and a couple had him as an early Day 3 pick. He missed the 2022 season with a torn ACL / MCL / Meniscus. He essentially had 10% of his career receptions, 16% of his career yardage, and 25% of his career TD all in one game. Maybe he will eventually turn into something but IMO taking him at Pick 38 makes no sense.

Wasn’t that game vs Colo and Hunter ?

I beileve so. IIRC, that was the game Ayomanor pinned the ball against Hunter's helmet for a TD.

- YouTube

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

www.youtube.com

Yeah they were talking of this during the radio show this morning.
I agree with what you said above.
Way too much of a bump for blocking. Maybe from low third to high third.
Apparently doing well against Hunter is overstated.
TBH this just makes me like Hunter more. Backhanded compliment that the guy had a single off game

 

[kyoun1e]

Let's see if Vrabel pounces.

Vikings released C Garrett Bradbury.
After failing to trade the veteran center, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports the Vikings will now release Bradbury and designate him as a post-June 1 release to spread out the cap hit. Bradbury was selected No. 18 overall by the Vikings in 2019 and has started all 88 games he’s appeared in during his career. After being bit by the injury bug in each of the previous three seasons, Bradbury suited up for all 17 games in 2024 and earned a PFF blocking grade of 62.1. Now free to sign with anybody, Bradbury shouldn’t struggle to find a new landing spot on a short-term deal this upcoming season.

 

[Anarchy99]

Bradbury was due $4.9M this year and could have been had for a 7th round pick. Probably a 7th round pick swap. That tells me the Pats only want to pay him less than that. Not saying they won’t be interested, but not sure they will value him very highly pay wise.

 

[Anarchy99]

Getting back to positional groupings (with PFF grades based on last season):

T (out of 141)
Morgan Moses (64th), Vederian Lowe (102st), Caeden Wallace (131st), Demontrey Jacobs (138th), Caleb Jones (NR)

G (out of 135)
Layden Robinson (18th), Mike Onwenu (51st), Lester Cotton (60th), Lecitus Smith (84th), Wes Schweitzer (116th), Layden Robinson (128th), Sidy Sow (134th), Jake Andrews (NR)

C (out of 64)
Ben Brown (54th), Cole Strange (61st)

Adding Moses and Schweitzer really didn't do much to boost the OL (especially now down Andrews). Robinson graded out well but only played 55% of snaps. Not sure just hoping these guys are healthier and play a little better is the best approach. I know they were in on other linemen, but the fact remains they really haven't done much to improve the line. If they don't take a first-round tackle, they most likely will be in the same boat as last year.

 

[Anarchy99]

WR (out of 98):
Demario Douglas (59th), Kayshon Boutte (84th), Mack Hollins (87th), Kendrick Bourne (NR), Ja’Lynn Polk (NR), Javon Baker (NR), John Jiles (NR), JaQuae Jackson (NR)

TE (out of 37):
Austin Hooper (7th), Hunter Henry (16th), Jaheim Bell (NR)

The same comments apply to the WR group as the OL group. They really haven't done anything. Hollins is just another guy to have in the room. Maybe he'll be a decent blocker and leadership influence, but I would not expect much production.

PFF seemingly liked the play of the tight ends the best out of the various groups on the roster. Pretty sure Hooper isn't really the #7 TE in the league, but whatever secret sauce goes into the PFF grades, Hooper fared well.

 

[rockaction]

You guys are nuts about Ayomanor. He has a forty time (4.44) in the eighty-fifth percentile, a speed score that's the same, a burst score in the 89th, and a catch radius in the 73rd. McMillan did not run a 4.48 at his pro day. In fact, it was all over the map with most scouts clocking him at a 4.54 or greater. I'm seeing the 4.48 repeated, but look at Faust's postings over in his thread.

Ayomanor had no QB throwing to him at Stanford. Otherwise, he would have dominated. I can see him at 38.

 

[ratbast]

It’s really disappointing. They are going to hurt Maye.

 

[Anarchy99]

DI (out of 219)
Milton Williams (31st), Khryiris Tonga (83rd), Jeremiah Pharms (93rd), Jaquelin Roy (98th), Christian Barmore (105th), Eric Johnson (123rd), Marcus Harris (NR)

Edge (out of 211)
Harold Landry (51st), Truman Jones (57th), Titus Leo (61st), Keion White (62nd), Anfernee Jennings (72nd), K’Lavon Chaisson (93rd)

Opinions will vary on Williams, but he only played on 42% of defensive snaps for the Eagles across his time there. Williams, Tonga, Landry, and Chaisson are new bodies . . . but the whole defense needs to play better.

 

[Anarchy99]

LB (out of 189)
Christian Elliss (41st), Robert Spillane (66th), Jahlani Tavai (140th), Monty Rice (158th), Ja’Whaun Bentley (166th), Curtis Jacobs (178th), Andrew Parker (NR)

Same song, different verse. The players in question here should have performed much better . . . they have in the past. They probably could do well again, but not sure how these guys would fit in a 3-4 base defense.

 

[Anarchy99]

CB (out of 223)
Miles Battle (10th), Isaiah Bolden (16th), Christian Gonzalez (20th), Carlton Davis (29th), Marcus Jones (47th), Alex Austin (114th), Marcellas Dial (172nd)

S (out of 170)
Jabrill Peppers (7th), Dell Pettus (26th), Brenden Schooler (61st), Marte Mapu (83rd), Jaylinn Hawkins (108th), Marcus Epps (154th), Kyle Dugger (157th), Mark Perry (NR)

Cornerback was a position of strength last year, and they've only made it better. Drafting Hunter to be a full-time starting CB would almost seem like overkill at this point. For all the money they shelled out to Dugger, he was a big disappointment.

 

[Bossman]

Maye seemed perfectly capable last year with a hodge podge of WRs. If he had a decent O line I think he'd still be more than productive.

I don't have the answers for NE. That being said, Maye's numbers did not indicate what you just posted. With up to 2.5 seconds in the pocket to throw, Maye had a 97.6 passer rating, was intercepted on 1.3% of attempts, and was sacked on 6.6% of drop backs. When he had more than 2.5 seconds in the pocket to throw, his passer rating was 69.1, had an interception percentage of 6.2%, and was sacked on 13.7% of drop backs (and his YPA dropped by nearly 1.5). That seems counterintuitive to what should have happened. Not sure if that's a systemic thing that short timing routes were better covered due to more guys in coverage and no one got open. But that combination of outcomes was . . . not good.

C'mon now ... this is pretty deceiving.
We all watched over and over, the O-line collapse at the snap of the ball.
What was the percentage of snaps that Maye had with less than 2.5 seconds? .... 70%?
... and the other 30% of the time the QB running for his life after 2.5 seconds is not what what we meant by "time for WR's to come uncovered".
Plenty of teams have had success without an elite WR ... including many Patriots teams.
Not many teams have had success with a crappy O-line.

 

[Bossman]

Will be curious to see what the Pats do now that the C. Kupp dream is over.

Still think they need to add a FA WR of some kind that is above the level of say, KJ Osborne. Somebody who can raise the floor of the WR room, add to the culture, and actually produce. Some names:

- S. Diggs: Coming off a big injury. Diva. No thanks.
- A. Cooper: If they can get him cheap, sure, although rumors at the combine are that he's washed.
- Dionte Johnson: He's a headache, but he has talent and I don't think he'll ever be cheaper. Cut him in camp if he's a problem.
- K. Allen: Maybe he's got one year left?
- T. Lockett: Not a good sign that Seattle cut him even with DK on the trade block.

I'd probably take a wack at Cooper.

There's a ton of other options in the next tier down. Think Cooks, Agholor, Woods, Reynolds, Chark, etc. I say why bother? I'd rather see what Boutte, Polk, Baker, Pop can do with a clean slate.

Trade? Everyone keeps talking about J. Meyers, but why would LV even make him available? Aiyuk? Coming off a big injury and don't think he even would want to be here. Maybe GB? They have a few young guys there maybe they'd trade on? Be curious if there is a team I'm not thinking of here.

Then of course the draft.

- If Hunter is there, take him.
- T. McMillan: Really doubt they take him at 4. They could trade down a bit. I personally don't love him.
- L. Burden, E. Egbuka, M. Golden: They could trade back into the back half of the first round and grab one of these guys.
- 2nd / Third Round: I think they WILL draft a WR here. My personal favorite: Jayden Higgins, Iowa State. Others: Tre Harris, Jack Bech, Jalen Royals.

Now they could just semi-punt on the position and go TE in the draft. I'd expect them to draft one for sure. We know McDaniel's loves his two TEs.

I wonder if T. Warren could be an option at 4 or especially if they trade down? There's also a ton of depth in the draft at TE...good year to target one.

Well, we'll see how it all plays out.

I would also like to see what these WR's can do ... with an above average O-line.
Imagine if Maye had 3 (or 5) seconds to allow WR's to get open before having to pull the trigger.
I'd prefer NE trade down from #4 and fill more holes elsewhere. Maybe pick up a bonus pick or two in 2026.
I might be asking a lot but my vision for this team is a well balanced offense behind a capable O-line ... and a dominant defense at all 3 levels.
I don't think they need an "ELITE" WR to make this happen.

I'd agree with you that we don't need elite at WR.

Maye seemed perfectly capable last year with a hodge podge of WRs. If he had a decent O line I think he'd still be more than productive.

Joe Milton seemed perfectly capable last year with a hodge podge of WR's.
Priorities should be elsewhere than WR at this point.

 

[Bossman]

Bengals have some "elite" WR's ... how's that working out for them?
So much $ tied up in WR's ... their defense is suffering.

 

[higgins]

Bengals have some "elite" WR's ... how's that working out for them?
So much $ tied up in WR's ... their defense is suffering.

A decent question I heard the other day is:

Outside of Hendrickson (whose status is tbd), who else on their roster is worth extending? They do have to spend the $ somewhere & there aren’t any obvious alternatives.

 

[Boston]

O-line is the main priority…I think everyone agrees with that…while they don’t need to give Maye elite WRs they do need to upgrade from the garbage they are rolling out there right now…he is not Tom Brady after 10 years in the NFL…he is entering his second year and still developing…this unit has to be upgraded…it is irresponsible not to do that.

 

[Lansdowne]

Some more OL help, Pats get Bradbury

https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1902087888722174198

Adam Schefter

Sources: Former Vikings’ 2019 first-round pick Garrett Bradbury has reached agreement on a two-year deal worth up to $12 million, including $3.8 million guaranteed, with the New England Patriots.Bradbury started all 88 games he played for the Vikings. The Patriots recently released 10-year veteran and team captain David Andrews, and Bradbury now is expected to replace him.

 

[kyoun1e]

Some more OL help, Pats get Bradbury

https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1902087888722174198

Adam Schefter

Sources: Former Vikings’ 2019 first-round pick Garrett Bradbury has reached agreement on a two-year deal worth up to $12 million, including $3.8 million guaranteed, with the New England Patriots.Bradbury started all 88 games he played for the Vikings. The Patriots recently released 10-year veteran and team captain David Andrews, and Bradbury now is expected to replace him.

That didn't take long.

Keep 'em comin'.

 

[Anarchy99]

The Bradbury one to me is perplexing. They could had done a 7th round pick swap and paid out less money to land him that way ($4.9M). Remember, folks, guys let go by their teams are mostly going to be average or below average players (or else they would have stuck around with their old team). Bradbury was the 33rd rated center last year (out of 64 that qualified). Is he better than the other options NE has? Sure. Will 6-years of starting experience help? Hopefully. The Vikings opted to cut him and not even keep him around as a backup in favor of Ryan Kelly. Kelly was the 17th ranked center. Not sure why the Pats weren't in on Kelly instead.

 

[Lansdowne]

They could had done a 7th round pick swap and paid out less money to land him that way ($4.9M).

They're only giving him $3.8 million in guarantees, which is less than $4.9 million. The contract is up to $12 million so there are incentives for him to perform better. And if he doesn't, it won't debilitate the team financially to cut him loose. There's very little downside to this signing.

 

[Anarchy99]

They could had done a 7th round pick swap and paid out less money to land him that way ($4.9M).

They're only giving him $3.8 million in guarantees, which is less than $4.9 million. The contract is up to $12 million so there are incentives for him to perform better. And if he doesn't, it won't debilitate the team financially to cut him loose. There's very little downside to this signing.

We'll have to see more details of the contract to see what the terms are involving the "up to" part. They are unlikely to cut him and eat $3.8M, and there most likely will be additional money this season added to that. It's not a terrible signing, but like I mentioned earlier, why not go after the tier of OL guys that were considered the upgrades vs. the tier of guys getting released? NE still has $97M in cap room for this season. Short of a major trade or two, who else is out there for them to spend it on?

 

[Anarchy99]

Maybe Bradbury can double at receiver. Career receptions to date: Javon Baker (1), Garrett Bradbury (3) (regular and post season). I am guessing that Bradbury caught three passes that were deflected, as I have a hard time seeing how a center could catch a pass otherwise.

 

[Lansdowne]

Maybe Bradbury can double at receiver. Career receptions to date: Javon Baker (1), Garrett Bradbury (3) (regular and post season). I am guessing that Bradbury caught three passes that were deflected, as I have a hard time seeing how a center could catch a pass otherwise.

Already has better hands than half our receivers!

https://x.com/CoachDanCasey/status/1902090349633245530

 

[Bri]

Mentioned earlier

Patriots kicking the tires on another former Titans LB who played for Mike Vrabel

Patriots have interest in another former Titans LB who played for Mike Vrabel.

www.masslive.com

I would sooo bet $ on this if I could

Reiss has him visiting the Pats next week but radio host says Reiss has him visiting the Pats this week .

Either way, he's probably a Pats player and soon enough two things will happen-
David and Boston will know why I call him old Zach Thomas.
And he will probably be the catalyst to trigger Vrabel's 'OMG stop cutting linebackers.'

150? 160? LB transactions during his time in TEN. There's a lot of this guy cut, then signed, then cut, then signed....that builds up that number but it's just "madness" about his former position.

Did you see Reiss' bit about how Spillane made the Titans (90) on mother's day and cried calling his mom and how that really stuck with Vrabel? Yeah he cut him. He praised him all summer and cut him. Someone got hurt in Pittsburgh IIRC and he's suddenly starting and all Titans fans are like what happened there? And here he is excited to add him to his new team.

Those couple paragraphs are a good microcosm of how Vrabel is with LBs. I'm a big fan of Vrabel but "he's got a screw loose" with LBs

 

[Anarchy99]

I hate to say it, but NE is almost operating like an expansion team. The last few post seasons, they have been relying on mediocre free acquisitions that the teams they were on no longer wanted, players that were cut from other teams (replaced by better players), and sniping people from practice squads. This year, they have concentrated their signings from players connected to the current coaching staff and front office. That means players from NE (4 wins), TEN (3 wins), LV (4 wins), and CLE (3 wins). They still are having problems getting offensive players to come to town. Maybe new faces and new coaches will make a big difference. But I remain skeptical. The offense at this point really isn't much different than last year (so far). They've spent big on defense, and hopefully that will translate to better play.

 

[Bossman]

Maybe Bradbury can double at receiver. Career receptions to date: Javon Baker (1), Garrett Bradbury (3) (regular and post season). I am guessing that Bradbury caught three passes that were deflected, as I have a hard time seeing how a center could catch a pass otherwise.

Already has better hands than half our receivers!

https://x.com/CoachDanCasey/status/1902090349633245530

Check out the YAC on THIS guy. He's an Edelman clone!

 

[Bad_Mo2]

Maybe Bradbury can double at receiver. Career receptions to date: Javon Baker (1), Garrett Bradbury (3) (regular and post season). I am guessing that Bradbury caught three passes that were deflected, as I have a hard time seeing how a center could catch a pass otherwise.

Already has better hands than half our receivers!

https://x.com/CoachDanCasey/status/1902090349633245530

Those DBs really didn't want a piece of Bradbury after he headed downfield. Ha

 

[kyoun1e]

OT C. Robinson signed by the Texans. Hopefully a blessing in disguise since he's meh.

LB Jack Gibbens signed. Played for 2 years under Vrabel, 13 starts in his final year.

 

[Lansdowne]

OT C. Robinson signed by the Texans. Hopefully a blessing in disguise since he's meh.

LB Jack Gibbens signed. Played for 2 years under Vrabel, 13 starts in his final year.

Yeah the fact that Marrone coached him before and the Pats didn't pursue speaks volumes. Was probably another Trent Brown, and not the good 2018 kind.

Raiders signed LB Christian Elliss to an offer sheet and the Pats have 24 hours to match it. I'd rather the Pats keep him and let Tavai go.

 

[Bri]

Mentioned earlier

Patriots kicking the tires on another former Titans LB who played for Mike Vrabel

Patriots have interest in another former Titans LB who played for Mike Vrabel.

www.masslive.com

I would sooo bet $ on this if I could

Reiss has him visiting the Pats next week but radio host says Reiss has him visiting the Pats this week .

Either way, he's probably a Pats player and soon enough two things will happen-
David and Boston will know why I call him old Zach Thomas.
And he will probably be the catalyst to trigger Vrabel's 'OMG stop cutting linebackers.'

150? 160? LB transactions during his time in TEN. There's a lot of this guy cut, then signed, then cut, then signed....that builds up that number but it's just "madness" about his former position.

Did you see Reiss' bit about how Spillane made the Titans (90) on mother's day and cried calling his mom and how that really stuck with Vrabel? Yeah he cut him. He praised him all summer and cut him. Someone got hurt in Pittsburgh IIRC and he's suddenly starting and all Titans fans are like what happened there? And here he is excited to add him to his new team.

Those couple paragraphs are a good microcosm of how Vrabel is with LBs. I'm a big fan of Vrabel but "he's got a screw loose" with LBs

https://x.com/MikeReiss/status/1902437433595007207

Signed