*** New England Patriot Offseason (2007) *** (1 Viewer)

[nerangers]

Patriots | R. Alexander has private workout with team

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 18:42:33 -0700

Albert Breer, writing for the Boston Herald, reports Oklahoma LB Rufus Alexander had a private workout with the New England Patriots Monday, March 19.

Patriots | D. Harris to have a private workout with team

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 18:42:18 -0700

Albert Breer, writing for the Boston Herald, reports Michigan LB David Harris will have a private workout with the New England Patriots Monday, March 26.

Patriots | L. Hall to have a private workout with team

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 18:42:05 -0700

Albert Breer, writing for the Boston Herald, reports Michigan CB Leon Hall will have a private workout with the New England Patriots Monday, March 26.

Patriots | Woodley to have a private workout with team

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 18:39:32 -0700

Albert Breer, writing for the Boston Herald, reports Michigan DE LaMarr Woodley will have a private workout with the New England Patriots Monday, March 26.

Look like we might actually draft a LB!!!!

I was just looking at this on KFFL as well...I was thinking to get CB Leon Hall, the Pats would need to move up about 10 spots.

 

[Pat Patriot]

Patriots | R. Alexander has private workout with team

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 18:42:33 -0700

Albert Breer, writing for the Boston Herald, reports Oklahoma LB Rufus Alexander had a private workout with the New England Patriots Monday, March 19.

Patriots | D. Harris to have a private workout with team

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 18:42:18 -0700

Albert Breer, writing for the Boston Herald, reports Michigan LB David Harris will have a private workout with the New England Patriots Monday, March 26.

Patriots | L. Hall to have a private workout with team

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 18:42:05 -0700

Albert Breer, writing for the Boston Herald, reports Michigan CB Leon Hall will have a private workout with the New England Patriots Monday, March 26.

Patriots | Woodley to have a private workout with team

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 18:39:32 -0700

Albert Breer, writing for the Boston Herald, reports Michigan DE LaMarr Woodley will have a private workout with the New England Patriots Monday, March 26.

Look like we might actually draft a LB!!!!

I was just looking at this on KFFL as well...I was thinking to get CB Leon Hall, the Pats would need to move up about 10 spots.

I dont see the Pats packaging the 2 1st rounders to move up for Hall or Landry. However, with all the signings that have happened, maybe they would rather not be paying 2 1st rounders this year. However, low 1st rounders are gold when it comes to Cap management. You usually get 5-6 years at a reasonable salary.

 

[Exile]

Patriots | R. Alexander has private workout with team

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 18:42:33 -0700

Albert Breer, writing for the Boston Herald, reports Oklahoma LB Rufus Alexander had a private workout with the New England Patriots Monday, March 19.

Patriots | D. Harris to have a private workout with team

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 18:42:18 -0700

Albert Breer, writing for the Boston Herald, reports Michigan LB David Harris will have a private workout with the New England Patriots Monday, March 26.

Patriots | L. Hall to have a private workout with team

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 18:42:05 -0700

Albert Breer, writing for the Boston Herald, reports Michigan CB Leon Hall will have a private workout with the New England Patriots Monday, March 26.

Patriots | Woodley to have a private workout with team

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 18:39:32 -0700

Albert Breer, writing for the Boston Herald, reports Michigan DE LaMarr Woodley will have a private workout with the New England Patriots Monday, March 26.

Looks like we might actually draft a LB!!!! But w/ BB and SP you never know.

I've heard the Pats really like Anthony Spencer from Purdue. He's a smaller DE that projects to 3-4 OLB in the pros. I watched him in the combine running some LB drills with other "college DEs who will be playing LB in the NFL" and he was fantastic. I'm surrpised he doesn't have a private workout mentioned.

 

[Boston]

The big question when it comes to LBs is where will Vrabel play, inside or out. If he's outside than the Pats have Thomas-Colvin-Vrabel so it doesn't make sense to use a high pick in that area. In that scenario they are thin inside so it would seem that's a possible direction they could go in the draft. On the flipside if Vrabel is moving to the inside than the Pats could use help both inside and outside because they'll still be thin in both areas. Unless there's another free agent signing (any word on Junior?) I don't think we'll know the answer here so that leaves both inside and outside LB as possible targets.

Harris from Michigan has a lot of qualities the Pats look for. He's a guy to keep an eye on.

 

[PatsWillWin]

I think Vrabel definitely plays inside for the most part, and I agree that that makes LB depth a priority.

 

[PMENFAN]

I wonder what people think of this?

1. Could it get it done?

2. Is there any way the Pats wouldn't be the winner in that deal?

3. What the heck are the Bears doing with Briggs? Doesn't a pissing match seem like a bad idea?

As currently constituted, I doubt the Pats have the cap room to add on that much of a cap hit for 2007. They could of course cut some dead wood, restructure some contracts, or get into creative accounting to get under the cap. I'm not sure that they would be looking to have to do that, though.

Hasnt it been stated already that Briggs is a bad fit for the 3-4 defense? I mean a good player is a good player but at some point the pieces need to fit. We cant just throw the best most expensive 11 defensive players out there and just hope they mesh. I think what we need the most right now is a PLUGGER. Is there a Ted Johnson type in FA or the draft?

I thought it was Briggs who said he wouldn't play in a 3-4? Besides, the Pats don't need him. They'll draft another LB. Alexander showed some promise. Cain I thought would have worked out better, but alas he's gone. How's Dat Nguyen? Can they pull him out of retirement? He'd be a great fit for BB. I know his health is a concern, but somebody asked for a great fit that's available, and that name popped into my head. Wasn't it a neck injury of some type?

 

[David Yudkin]

I wonder what people think of this?

1. Could it get it done?

2. Is there any way the Pats wouldn't be the winner in that deal?

3. What the heck are the Bears doing with Briggs? Doesn't a pissing match seem like a bad idea?

As currently constituted, I doubt the Pats have the cap room to add on that much of a cap hit for 2007. They could of course cut some dead wood, restructure some contracts, or get into creative accounting to get under the cap. I'm not sure that they would be looking to have to do that, though.

Hasnt it been stated already that Briggs is a bad fit for the 3-4 defense? I mean a good player is a good player but at some point the pieces need to fit. We cant just throw the best most expensive 11 defensive players out there and just hope they mesh. I think what we need the most right now is a PLUGGER. Is there a Ted Johnson type in FA or the draft?

I thought it was Briggs who said he wouldn't play in a 3-4? Besides, the Pats don't need him. They'll draft another LB. Alexander showed some promise. Cain I thought would have worked out better, but alas he's gone. How's Dat Nguyen? Can they pull him out of retirement? He'd be a great fit for BB. I know his health is a concern, but somebody asked for a great fit that's available, and that name popped into my head. Wasn't it a neck injury of some type?

I have seen several interviews with Coach B over the past couple of years and he was of the opinion that the Pats needed to groom a LB or DE to fit their system and that they would not invest a first day pick on a LB when they could take someone that others might consider not a true LB or DE and mold them into what they wanted. The other option for them was taking a free agent LB that they had an idea of how they would perform. But Bill B was pretty steadfast in explaining that while they would look at all the college prospects they would have to find an exceptionally good fit to consider drafting a LB early in the draft. I'm not sure who fits that profile . . .

 

[Boston]

I wonder what people think of this?

1. Could it get it done?

2. Is there any way the Pats wouldn't be the winner in that deal?

3. What the heck are the Bears doing with Briggs? Doesn't a pissing match seem like a bad idea?

As currently constituted, I doubt the Pats have the cap room to add on that much of a cap hit for 2007. They could of course cut some dead wood, restructure some contracts, or get into creative accounting to get under the cap. I'm not sure that they would be looking to have to do that, though.

Hasnt it been stated already that Briggs is a bad fit for the 3-4 defense? I mean a good player is a good player but at some point the pieces need to fit. We cant just throw the best most expensive 11 defensive players out there and just hope they mesh. I think what we need the most right now is a PLUGGER. Is there a Ted Johnson type in FA or the draft?

I thought it was Briggs who said he wouldn't play in a 3-4? Besides, the Pats don't need him. They'll draft another LB. Alexander showed some promise. Cain I thought would have worked out better, but alas he's gone. How's Dat Nguyen? Can they pull him out of retirement? He'd be a great fit for BB. I know his health is a concern, but somebody asked for a great fit that's available, and that name popped into my head. Wasn't it a neck injury of some type?

I have seen several interviews with Coach B over the past couple of years and he was of the opinion that the Pats needed to groom a LB or DE to fit their system and that they would not invest a first day pick on a LB when they could take someone that others might consider not a true LB or DE and mold them into what they wanted. The other option for them was taking a free agent LB that they had an idea of how they would perform. But Bill B was pretty steadfast in explaining that while they would look at all the college prospects they would have to find an exceptionally good fit to consider drafting a LB early in the draft. I'm not sure who fits that profile . . .

The problem is it's pretty near impossible for a college kid to step into the Pats LB corps and contribute right away. The Pats want big LBs (245 and above) that can rush and cover, are smart and can play in a 3-4. If they're outside they need to be able to play with a hand down as well. That means the pickings are very slim when it comes to the draft because not many college programs play a 3-4 and even if they do it won't be like the Pats system. The fact that a 3-4 veteran like Chad Brown had difficulty picking up the system shows how difficult this transistion can be. Add in the fact that guys like Vrabel, Bruschi, Willie, Colvin and Banta-Cain were all DEs in college and being able to find a college player that can transistion is that much more tougher to find. In the past the Pats have tried a few times to develop a player they selected late. They missed on Mincey, Turner and Claridge and had marginal success with Banta-Cain although it took him quite a while to actually contribute. They still have LBs in their program like Alexander, Mays and Woods but I don't think any of those guys can definetly be counted on.

The Pats need to add to this unit. Whether they do it in the draft or continue to mine free agency is the question but there's little doubt that this unit needs more depth and a little more atleticism wouldn't hurt either.

 

[David Yudkin]

I wonder what people think of this?

1. Could it get it done?

2. Is there any way the Pats wouldn't be the winner in that deal?

3. What the heck are the Bears doing with Briggs? Doesn't a pissing match seem like a bad idea?

As currently constituted, I doubt the Pats have the cap room to add on that much of a cap hit for 2007. They could of course cut some dead wood, restructure some contracts, or get into creative accounting to get under the cap. I'm not sure that they would be looking to have to do that, though.

Hasnt it been stated already that Briggs is a bad fit for the 3-4 defense? I mean a good player is a good player but at some point the pieces need to fit. We cant just throw the best most expensive 11 defensive players out there and just hope they mesh. I think what we need the most right now is a PLUGGER. Is there a Ted Johnson type in FA or the draft?

I thought it was Briggs who said he wouldn't play in a 3-4? Besides, the Pats don't need him. They'll draft another LB. Alexander showed some promise. Cain I thought would have worked out better, but alas he's gone. How's Dat Nguyen? Can they pull him out of retirement? He'd be a great fit for BB. I know his health is a concern, but somebody asked for a great fit that's available, and that name popped into my head. Wasn't it a neck injury of some type?

I have seen several interviews with Coach B over the past couple of years and he was of the opinion that the Pats needed to groom a LB or DE to fit their system and that they would not invest a first day pick on a LB when they could take someone that others might consider not a true LB or DE and mold them into what they wanted. The other option for them was taking a free agent LB that they had an idea of how they would perform. But Bill B was pretty steadfast in explaining that while they would look at all the college prospects they would have to find an exceptionally good fit to consider drafting a LB early in the draft. I'm not sure who fits that profile . . .

The problem is it's pretty near impossible for a college kid to step into the Pats LB corps and contribute right away. The Pats want big LBs (245 and above) that can rush and cover, are smart and can play in a 3-4. If they're outside they need to be able to play with a hand down as well. That means the pickings are very slim when it comes to the draft because not many college programs play a 3-4 and even if they do it won't be like the Pats system. The fact that a 3-4 veteran like Chad Brown had difficulty picking up the system shows how difficult this transistion can be. Add in the fact that guys like Vrabel, Bruschi, Willie, Colvin and Banta-Cain were all DEs in college and being able to find a college player that can transistion is that much more tougher to find. In the past the Pats have tried a few times to develop a player they selected late. They missed on Mincey, Turner and Claridge and had marginal success with Banta-Cain although it took him quite a while to actually contribute. They still have LBs in their program like Alexander, Mays and Woods but I don't think any of those guys can definetly be counted on.

The Pats need to add to this unit. Whether they do it in the draft or continue to mine free agency is the question but there's little doubt that this unit needs more depth and a little more atleticism wouldn't hurt either.

I brought this up because almost every mock I have seen has the Pats taking a LB with one of their first round picks. I personally don't see them going in that direction for the very reasons that you mentioned. They need either an oversized but mobile LB or an exceptionally quick and versatile DE. Most college LB have played in a less sophisticated (compared to the Pats' system) scheme and in a 4-3. The fit normally isn't there so they have yet to pull the trigger on a first round LB so far (IIRC).

 

[PatsWillWin]

I have seen several interviews with Coach B over the past couple of years and he was of the opinion that the Pats needed to groom a LB or DE to fit their system and that they would not invest a first day pick on a LB when they could take someone that others might consider not a true LB or DE and mold them into what they wanted. The other option for them was taking a free agent LB that they had an idea of how they would perform. But Bill B was pretty steadfast in explaining that while they would look at all the college prospects they would have to find an exceptionally good fit to consider drafting a LB early in the draft. I'm not sure who fits that profile . . .

The problem is it's pretty near impossible for a college kid to step into the Pats LB corps and contribute right away. The Pats want big LBs (245 and above) that can rush and cover, are smart and can play in a 3-4. If they're outside they need to be able to play with a hand down as well. That means the pickings are very slim when it comes to the draft because not many college programs play a 3-4 and even if they do it won't be like the Pats system. The fact that a 3-4 veteran like Chad Brown had difficulty picking up the system shows how difficult this transistion can be. Add in the fact that guys like Vrabel, Bruschi, Willie, Colvin and Banta-Cain were all DEs in college and being able to find a college player that can transistion is that much more tougher to find. In the past the Pats have tried a few times to develop a player they selected late. They missed on Mincey, Turner and Claridge and had marginal success with Banta-Cain although it took him quite a while to actually contribute. They still have LBs in their program like Alexander, Mays and Woods but I don't think any of those guys can definetly be counted on.The Pats need to add to this unit. Whether they do it in the draft or continue to mine free agency is the question but there's little doubt that this unit needs more depth and a little more atleticism wouldn't hurt either.

It's certainly true that the Patriots under Belichick have not drafted LB's early and that this is not a coincidence. However it's also worth noting that it has been reported that they were very high on Vilma and would have taken him had he been available. No doubt that Belichick/Pioli de-emphasize rookie LB's because of the complexity of the system but I certainly wouldn't rule anything out come draft day.

 

[Wandering wookie]

I wonder what people think of this?

1. Could it get it done?

2. Is there any way the Pats wouldn't be the winner in that deal?

3. What the heck are the Bears doing with Briggs? Doesn't a pissing match seem like a bad idea?

As currently constituted, I doubt the Pats have the cap room to add on that much of a cap hit for 2007. They could of course cut some dead wood, restructure some contracts, or get into creative accounting to get under the cap. I'm not sure that they would be looking to have to do that, though.

Hasnt it been stated already that Briggs is a bad fit for the 3-4 defense? I mean a good player is a good player but at some point the pieces need to fit. We cant just throw the best most expensive 11 defensive players out there and just hope they mesh. I think what we need the most right now is a PLUGGER. Is there a Ted Johnson type in FA or the draft?

I thought it was Briggs who said he wouldn't play in a 3-4? Besides, the Pats don't need him. They'll draft another LB. Alexander showed some promise. Cain I thought would have worked out better, but alas he's gone. How's Dat Nguyen? Can they pull him out of retirement? He'd be a great fit for BB. I know his health is a concern, but somebody asked for a great fit that's available, and that name popped into my head. Wasn't it a neck injury of some type?

I have seen several interviews with Coach B over the past couple of years and he was of the opinion that the Pats needed to groom a LB or DE to fit their system and that they would not invest a first day pick on a LB when they could take someone that others might consider not a true LB or DE and mold them into what they wanted. The other option for them was taking a free agent LB that they had an idea of how they would perform. But Bill B was pretty steadfast in explaining that while they would look at all the college prospects they would have to find an exceptionally good fit to consider drafting a LB early in the draft. I'm not sure who fits that profile . . .

The problem is it's pretty near impossible for a college kid to step into the Pats LB corps and contribute right away. The Pats want big LBs (245 and above) that can rush and cover, are smart and can play in a 3-4. If they're outside they need to be able to play with a hand down as well. That means the pickings are very slim when it comes to the draft because not many college programs play a 3-4 and even if they do it won't be like the Pats system. The fact that a 3-4 veteran like Chad Brown had difficulty picking up the system shows how difficult this transistion can be. Add in the fact that guys like Vrabel, Bruschi, Willie, Colvin and Banta-Cain were all DEs in college and being able to find a college player that can transistion is that much more tougher to find. In the past the Pats have tried a few times to develop a player they selected late. They missed on Mincey, Turner and Claridge and had marginal success with Banta-Cain although it took him quite a while to actually contribute. They still have LBs in their program like Alexander, Mays and Woods but I don't think any of those guys can definetly be counted on.

The Pats need to add to this unit. Whether they do it in the draft or continue to mine free agency is the question but there's little doubt that this unit needs more depth and a little more atleticism wouldn't hurt either.

I brought this up because almost every mock I have seen has the Pats taking a LB with one of their first round picks. I personally don't see them going in that direction for the very reasons that you mentioned. They need either an oversized but mobile LB or an exceptionally quick and versatile DE. Most college LB have played in a less sophisticated (compared to the Pats' system) scheme and in a 4-3. The fit normally isn't there so they have yet to pull the trigger on a first round LB so far (IIRC).

[whisper] Zack DeOssie [/whisper]

edit to add: in the third round after drafting two BAPs (preferably at least one DB) with our firsts

 

[Boston]

I wonder what people think of this?

1. Could it get it done?

2. Is there any way the Pats wouldn't be the winner in that deal?

3. What the heck are the Bears doing with Briggs? Doesn't a pissing match seem like a bad idea?

As currently constituted, I doubt the Pats have the cap room to add on that much of a cap hit for 2007. They could of course cut some dead wood, restructure some contracts, or get into creative accounting to get under the cap. I'm not sure that they would be looking to have to do that, though.

Hasnt it been stated already that Briggs is a bad fit for the 3-4 defense? I mean a good player is a good player but at some point the pieces need to fit. We cant just throw the best most expensive 11 defensive players out there and just hope they mesh. I think what we need the most right now is a PLUGGER. Is there a Ted Johnson type in FA or the draft?

I thought it was Briggs who said he wouldn't play in a 3-4? Besides, the Pats don't need him. They'll draft another LB. Alexander showed some promise. Cain I thought would have worked out better, but alas he's gone. How's Dat Nguyen? Can they pull him out of retirement? He'd be a great fit for BB. I know his health is a concern, but somebody asked for a great fit that's available, and that name popped into my head. Wasn't it a neck injury of some type?

I have seen several interviews with Coach B over the past couple of years and he was of the opinion that the Pats needed to groom a LB or DE to fit their system and that they would not invest a first day pick on a LB when they could take someone that others might consider not a true LB or DE and mold them into what they wanted. The other option for them was taking a free agent LB that they had an idea of how they would perform. But Bill B was pretty steadfast in explaining that while they would look at all the college prospects they would have to find an exceptionally good fit to consider drafting a LB early in the draft. I'm not sure who fits that profile . . .

The problem is it's pretty near impossible for a college kid to step into the Pats LB corps and contribute right away. The Pats want big LBs (245 and above) that can rush and cover, are smart and can play in a 3-4. If they're outside they need to be able to play with a hand down as well. That means the pickings are very slim when it comes to the draft because not many college programs play a 3-4 and even if they do it won't be like the Pats system. The fact that a 3-4 veteran like Chad Brown had difficulty picking up the system shows how difficult this transistion can be. Add in the fact that guys like Vrabel, Bruschi, Willie, Colvin and Banta-Cain were all DEs in college and being able to find a college player that can transistion is that much more tougher to find. In the past the Pats have tried a few times to develop a player they selected late. They missed on Mincey, Turner and Claridge and had marginal success with Banta-Cain although it took him quite a while to actually contribute. They still have LBs in their program like Alexander, Mays and Woods but I don't think any of those guys can definetly be counted on.

The Pats need to add to this unit. Whether they do it in the draft or continue to mine free agency is the question but there's little doubt that this unit needs more depth and a little more atleticism wouldn't hurt either.

I brought this up because almost every mock I have seen has the Pats taking a LB with one of their first round picks. I personally don't see them going in that direction for the very reasons that you mentioned. They need either an oversized but mobile LB or an exceptionally quick and versatile DE. Most college LB have played in a less sophisticated (compared to the Pats' system) scheme and in a 4-3. The fit normally isn't there so they have yet to pull the trigger on a first round LB so far (IIRC).

I think the mock drafts have them going LB every year. Since they tend to go with vets at LB they never have much youth there and it always looks like an area that will get addressed come draft day. Unless there is a player that they are very comfortable with I agree that they probably won't go in that direction early. Yet, with the Pats the one thing that is consistent is that they always find a way to surprise.

 

[nerangers]

I am no expert on rookie drafts by any stretch of the imagination (you can tell that by looking at my attempt of the first round NERangers Rookie Draft) but it does seem by the guys the Patriots are looking at lately are LBs that are listed as going third round.

I still think this is a good draft to go CB/S...that is where I think the Pats will attack in the draft. You know they are going to draft the best player possible, and one thing some of these Mocks have shown me, Players do slide down. Having the 24th pick could get you a nice little gem to compensate for Branch.

I had the Pats getting CB Aaron Ross and S Michael Griffin. Looking online, some think the Pats could trade one of those picks...and maybe get a second rounder back. One I looked at had the Pats trading the #24 pick to the Saints (who drafted TE Olson). The Pats ended up with Anthony Spencer, LB/DE at #27 and CB Marcus McCauley at #28...that would not be too bad and end up with an extra pick as well.

 

[nerangers]

The Patriots announced the re-signing of WR Bam Childress today. Childress was an exclusive rights free agent, so his re-signing was expected.

Practice Squad anyone?

also

Bruschi on WEEI

We’ve been trying to figure out where Adalius Thomas is going to play. Do you think about that and how it will affect you?

“Absolutely, because Adalius is so flexible and versatile that if he plays outside linebacker that’s going to adjust to who is the inside linebacker, and if he plays inside linebacker it’s going to adjust who is going to play outside linebacker. We’ve talked about it already. What the coaches have told us is what they’ve always told us – be ready for anything. What we like to do, it can change up, and with the experience I’ve had here for so long, the way it is in August can be greatly different than what it is in December. So be on your toes and be ready to have position flexibility, know the defense as a whole rather than just what you do.”

Seymour in house

Seymour's presence is notable based on a previous media report that indicated he would not take part in the program.

 

[nerangers]

A good read by Mike Reiss:

What's next? Thoughts turn from free agency to the NFL Draft

g2g

 

[Boston]

Looks like the Pats may still be sniffing around Hartwell. Whether it's Junior, Hartwell or someone else I'd really like to see another veteran or two added to the LB unit. They need more depth.

http://patriots.bostonherald.com/patriots.bg

Hartwell on minds

Linebacker Edgerton Hartwell remains on the Patriots’ radar, according to a source.

Hartwell - a highly productive player over three years as a starting 3-4 inside linebacker in Baltimore (2002-04) - was besieged by injuries after signing a six-year, $25 million deal with the Falcons before the 2005 season, then cut at the outset of free agency. He did finish the ’06 season with six straight starts and 35 tackles.

The 28-year-old is looking for a prove-it type of one-year deal to reestablish himself as a run-stopping force in the league.

 

[Bri]

Bruschi on WEEI

We’ve been trying to figure out where Adalius Thomas is going to play. Do you think about that and how it will affect you?

“Absolutely, because Adalius is so flexible and versatile that if he plays outside linebacker that’s going to adjust to who is the inside linebacker, and if he plays inside linebacker it’s going to adjust who is going to play outside linebacker. We’ve talked about it already. What the coaches have told us is what they’ve always told us – be ready for anything. What we like to do, it can change up, and with the experience I’ve had here for so long, the way it is in August can be greatly different than what it is in December. So be on your toes and be ready to have position flexibility, know the defense as a whole rather than just what you do.”

That doesn't sound like he's retiring at all.

Now post a similar quote from Brown please

 

[David Yudkin]

Bruschi on WEEI

We’ve been trying to figure out where Adalius Thomas is going to play. Do you think about that and how it will affect you?

“Absolutely, because Adalius is so flexible and versatile that if he plays outside linebacker that’s going to adjust to who is the inside linebacker, and if he plays inside linebacker it’s going to adjust who is going to play outside linebacker. We’ve talked about it already. What the coaches have told us is what they’ve always told us – be ready for anything. What we like to do, it can change up, and with the experience I’ve had here for so long, the way it is in August can be greatly different than what it is in December. So be on your toes and be ready to have position flexibility, know the defense as a whole rather than just what you do.”

That doesn't sound like he's retiring at all.

Now post a similar quote from Brown please

If you read the mail bag piece from Mike Reiss a couple of links up it discusses Brown wanting to play another year, just not at the league minimum.

 

[Pat Patriot]

Bruschi on WEEI

We’ve been trying to figure out where Adalius Thomas is going to play. Do you think about that and how it will affect you?

“Absolutely, because Adalius is so flexible and versatile that if he plays outside linebacker that’s going to adjust to who is the inside linebacker, and if he plays inside linebacker it’s going to adjust who is going to play outside linebacker. We’ve talked about it already. What the coaches have told us is what they’ve always told us – be ready for anything. What we like to do, it can change up, and with the experience I’ve had here for so long, the way it is in August can be greatly different than what it is in December. So be on your toes and be ready to have position flexibility, know the defense as a whole rather than just what you do.”

That doesn't sound like he's retiring at all.

Now post a similar quote from Brown please

If you read the mail bag piece from Mike Reiss a couple of links up it discusses Brown wanting to play another year, just not at the league minimum.

I'm usually not the sentimental type regarding my football team but based on his years of service and the strip fumble play he made against SD, Brown deserves something above the minimum. Doesnt have to be any kind of starting money but something to show they respect his contributions. I usually am on the side of management and look forward and not backward in determining player value but I think you make a small exception with Brown.

 

[Bri]

Bruschi on WEEI

We’ve been trying to figure out where Adalius Thomas is going to play. Do you think about that and how it will affect you?

“Absolutely, because Adalius is so flexible and versatile that if he plays outside linebacker that’s going to adjust to who is the inside linebacker, and if he plays inside linebacker it’s going to adjust who is going to play outside linebacker. We’ve talked about it already. What the coaches have told us is what they’ve always told us – be ready for anything. What we like to do, it can change up, and with the experience I’ve had here for so long, the way it is in August can be greatly different than what it is in December. So be on your toes and be ready to have position flexibility, know the defense as a whole rather than just what you do.”

That doesn't sound like he's retiring at all.

Now post a similar quote from Brown please

If you read the mail bag piece from Mike Reiss a couple of links up it discusses Brown wanting to play another year, just not at the league minimum.

IT'S CHRISTMAS!Thank you

 

[David Yudkin]

The Skins cut David Patten today. I wonder if the Pats are done stockpiling middle of the road WRs and if they'd bring him back . . .

 

[Exile]

The Skins cut David Patten today. I wonder if the Pats are done stockpiling middle of the road WRs and if they'd bring him back . . .

He'd be a great training camp body as a veteran guy who (presumably) knows the offense, but I'd be surprised if he makes the final roster based on the guys on the roster now and his health/production since he left NE. I could see a no-risk, veteran minimum deal for him to come back to the Patriots but that assumes no one else is willing to offer him more.

 

[Boston]

The Skins cut David Patten today. I wonder if the Pats are done stockpiling middle of the road WRs and if they'd bring him back . . .

He'd be a great training camp body as a veteran guy who (presumably) knows the offense, but I'd be surprised if he makes the final roster based on the guys on the roster now and his health/production since he left NE. I could see a no-risk, veteran minimum deal for him to come back to the Patriots but that assumes no one else is willing to offer him more.

If Troy is coming back I don't see this happening. If he's gone than this would be a possibility. Assuming Troy is back that gives the Pats Welker, Stallworth, Washington, Gaffney and Caldwell as well as Troy and the possibility of a draft pick (and Bam and Keight as far as training camp bodies and Jax also waiting in the wings). You can never have enough depth but I have to believe Patten would want to go somewhere where the opportunity to play is better.

 

[David Yudkin]

The Skins cut David Patten today. I wonder if the Pats are done stockpiling middle of the road WRs and if they'd bring him back . . .

He'd be a great training camp body as a veteran guy who (presumably) knows the offense, but I'd be surprised if he makes the final roster based on the guys on the roster now and his health/production since he left NE. I could see a no-risk, veteran minimum deal for him to come back to the Patriots but that assumes no one else is willing to offer him more.

If Troy is coming back I don't see this happening. If he's gone than this would be a possibility. Assuming Troy is back that gives the Pats Welker, Stallworth, Washington, Gaffney and Caldwell as well as Troy and the possibility of a draft pick (and Bam and Keight as far as training camp bodies and Jax also waiting in the wings). You can never have enough depth but I have to believe Patten would want to go somewhere where the opportunity to play is better.

Clearly Stallworth and Welker will stick for this year. IIRC, Washington got only $300K to sign so if he looks mediocre in camp they could easily drop him. Caldwell gets a decnt amount of money this year relative to what the Pats are accustomed to paying for WRs ($1.55 million in base salary). Depending upon where he sits on the depth chart might impact if they would consider somehow moving Caldwell. I'm not saying that that will happen, only that if Stallworth, Welker, and Washington get more playing time than Caldwell and Jackson comes back healthy or they bring back Brown, Caldwell might not be worth what they are paying him. Long story short, if he falls to 4th or 5th on the depth chart that's a lot to pay for someone that wouldn't play much.

 

[Domination]

Seeing as the LBs that the Pats normally draft have come from previous DEs in college. What are the thought on taking Jarvis Moss, the DE from Florida? He seems to have the quickness to be able to fall back in coverage, and the speed to rush the passer.

 

[Boston]

The Skins cut David Patten today. I wonder if the Pats are done stockpiling middle of the road WRs and if they'd bring him back . . .

He'd be a great training camp body as a veteran guy who (presumably) knows the offense, but I'd be surprised if he makes the final roster based on the guys on the roster now and his health/production since he left NE. I could see a no-risk, veteran minimum deal for him to come back to the Patriots but that assumes no one else is willing to offer him more.

If Troy is coming back I don't see this happening. If he's gone than this would be a possibility. Assuming Troy is back that gives the Pats Welker, Stallworth, Washington, Gaffney and Caldwell as well as Troy and the possibility of a draft pick (and Bam and Keight as far as training camp bodies and Jax also waiting in the wings). You can never have enough depth but I have to believe Patten would want to go somewhere where the opportunity to play is better.

Clearly Stallworth and Welker will stick for this year. IIRC, Washington got only $300K to sign so if he looks mediocre in camp they could easily drop him. Caldwell gets a decnt amount of money this year relative to what the Pats are accustomed to paying for WRs ($1.55 million in base salary). Depending upon where he sits on the depth chart might impact if they would consider somehow moving Caldwell. I'm not saying that that will happen, only that if Stallworth, Welker, and Washington get more playing time than Caldwell and Jackson comes back healthy or they bring back Brown, Caldwell might not be worth what they are paying him. Long story short, if he falls to 4th or 5th on the depth chart that's a lot to pay for someone that wouldn't play much.

There's three reasons I see Caldwell being back:*He's only got a year left on his deal and he was a productive player last year. I don't think his number is too big to be an influence-maker on a team that speads the ball around as much as they do.*He knows the Pats system which isn't easy. Veterans like Gabriel and Hayes have been clueless with what the Pats do and became useless. Therefore I think it's important early in the season to have Caldwell around as the others figure out what they're doing.I do see your point about a deal because in the past they have made deals near the end of camp trying to get something in return. They did it with Gorin, Cobb and Tucker last year. If the new guys look like they know what they're doing early than this is a possibility. Yet, I think Caldwell can help them especially if he is pushed farther down in the rotation where the matchups he will be facing will be more favorable for him.

 

[Workhorse]

Seeing as the LBs that the Pats normally draft have come from previous DEs in college. What are the thought on taking Jarvis Moss, the DE from Florida? He seems to have the quickness to be able to fall back in coverage, and the speed to rush the passer.

I think if the Pats draft to fill a LB position, they'll go after a versitile inside/outside guy. Jarvis Moss would be a project at ILB that I'm not sure the Pats would favor over a kid like Jon Beason from Miami, who has experience playing MLB as well as on the outside.

 

[Bri]

The Skins cut David Patten today. I wonder if the Pats are done stockpiling middle of the road WRs and if they'd bring him back . . .

He'd be a great training camp body as a veteran guy who (presumably) knows the offense, but I'd be surprised if he makes the final roster based on the guys on the roster now and his health/production since he left NE. I could see a no-risk, veteran minimum deal for him to come back to the Patriots but that assumes no one else is willing to offer him more.

If Troy is coming back I don't see this happening. If he's gone than this would be a possibility. Assuming Troy is back that gives the Pats Welker, Stallworth, Washington, Gaffney and Caldwell as well as Troy and the possibility of a draft pick (and Bam and Keight as far as training camp bodies and Jax also waiting in the wings). You can never have enough depth but I have to believe Patten would want to go somewhere where the opportunity to play is better.

I don't disagree with either of you much at all really. I would just add that experience is pretty weak on this WR corps with playoff experience even less. Did you think that nerves caused any drops or incompletions in the playoffs?Patten could have a smidge more value than it seems like initially.

 

[Bri]

Clearly Stallworth and Welker will stick for this year. IIRC, Washington got only $300K to sign so if he looks mediocre in camp they could easily drop him. Caldwell gets a decnt amount of money this year relative to what the Pats are accustomed to paying for WRs ($1.55 million in base salary). Depending upon where he sits on the depth chart might impact if they would consider somehow moving Caldwell. I'm not saying that that will happen, only that if Stallworth, Welker, and Washington get more playing time than Caldwell and Jackson comes back healthy or they bring back Brown, Caldwell might not be worth what they are paying him. Long story short, if he falls to 4th or 5th on the depth chart that's a lot to pay for someone that wouldn't play much.

Stallworth makes an enormous amount more in 08 than 07 it's probably debatable that he will even be on the roster in 08.Caldwell and Gaffney's deals expire this year.Brown will probably retire.Jackson....well when he gets better he'd better show something(anything) or he's gone IMO.Washington....like you said.Geesh they'd only have Welker in 08 then. I think getting Caldwell locked in will be an 07 priority, that just looks too bleak.

 

[Ron_Mexico]

I personally don't see Caldwell as being a huge

part of their future plans.

 

[Bri]

I personally don't see Caldwell as being a hugepart of their future plans.

since he's cheap and they (possibly)have little for 08 it seems like the move to make IMO as cutting him is only minimal risk.Huge, yeah i don't either

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Maroney's shoulder a concern?

Mon, 26 Mar 2007 07:13:34 -0700

John Tomase, of the Boston Herald, reports New England Patriots RB Laurence Maroney (shoulder) had offseason shoulder surgery that showed "fairly significant damage," according to a league source. The long-term impact, however, is unclear at this point. The team could not confirm whether Maroney is taking part in the team's offseason conditioning program.

Anyone have insight on this????

Lawrence Maroney Shoulder joint issue?, Anyone see this?

 

[Boston]

As expected the Pats got four compensatory picks awarded...a #5, two #6's and a #7:

March 26, 2007

Compensatory picks

The Patriots were awarded four compensatory draft picks today -- a fifth-rounder, two sixth-rounders and one seventh-rounder.

The fifth-round pick is 171st overall. The sixth-rounders are 208 and 209. The seventh-round pick is 247th.

The picks were a result of losing compensatory free agents Tom Ashworth, Matt Chatham, Andre David, Tim Dwight, Christian Fauria, David Givens and Adam Vinatieri.

The lone compensatory free agent signed by the Patriots was Reche Caldwell.

The Patriots' four picks was a league high, tied with the Ravens.

http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/reiss_pieces/

If my calculations are correct that gives the Pats 10 picks overall:

First round-x2

Second round-none

Third round-x1

Fourth round-x1

Fifth round-x1

Sixth round-x4

Seventh round-x2

 

[Dickie Dunn]

Seems the Pats are pretty much guaranteed to open the season against an AFC East rival on the road, since there's a Buffett concert at Gillette the night before.

All of the non-division road opponents (Ravens, Bengals, Colts, Giants, Cowboys) have been announced as playing elsewhere that weekend.

Pats-Jets opener, perhaps?

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Maroney's shoulder a concern?

Mon, 26 Mar 2007 07:13:34 -0700

John Tomase, of the Boston Herald, reports New England Patriots RB Laurence Maroney (shoulder) had offseason shoulder surgery that showed "fairly significant damage," according to a league source. The long-term impact, however, is unclear at this point. The team could not confirm whether Maroney is taking part in the team's offseason conditioning program.

Anyone have insight on this????

Lawrence Maroney Shoulder joint issue?, Anyone see this?

Patriots | Maroney injury update Tue, 27 Mar 2007 09:46:52 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports New England Patriots RB Laurence Maroney (shoulder) is expected to be fully recovered in time for the 2007 season. Maroney underwent shoulder surgery this offseason.

Patriots | Brown recovering

Tue, 27 Mar 2007 16:44:07 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports free-agent WR Troy Brown (knee) is recovering from offseason knee surgery, according to multiple sources. Brown could still possibly return to the New England Patriots.

 

[David Yudkin]

Since Bri keeps asking about Troy Brown . . .

Brown back with Pats for another go

By Tom Curran

NBCSports.com

Posted: Mar.29, 2007, 10:41 am EDT

It looks as if Brown and Brady will be back together next year. Troy Brown is in the Patriots' 2007 plans despite recent surgery to repair a ruptured patella tendon.

"I expect Troy to have a role with us this year as far as I'm concerned," Patriots head coach Bill Belichick told NBCSports.com on Wednesday. "He is part of the plan for next season."

Meanwhile, Brown told the Associated Press Wednesday night, "My intention is to play. That's what the deal is. We'll see what happens. I'm not writing anything in stone but my intentions are to play.

Brown, taken in the eighth round of the 1993 draft by the Patriots, went under the knife after New England's AFC Championship loss to the Colts, according to The Boston Herald.

Currently a free agent, Brown is the Patriots' longest tenured player. He's got icon status in New England, where he's viewed as the embodiment of the gritty resourcefulness that helped the Pats win three Super Bowls and four AFC Championship appearances in the past six seasons.

The Patriots have been on a wideout binge during free agency, signing Wes Welker, Donte Stallworth and Kelley Washington to join a group that last year included Brown, Reche Caldwell and Jabar Gaffney as its principal targets.

But Brown's value as a slot receiver, returner and pinch DB keeps him relevant even as he approaches his 36th birthday this July.

Last season, Brown caught 43 passes and became the Patriots all-time leading receiver in receptions (557).

LINKNow, the title is a bit misleading as Brown is not yet re-signed. But it looks like he should be back if he's healthy.

 

[Mr. Pink]

Since Bri keeps asking about Troy Brown . . .

Brown back with Pats for another go

By Tom Curran

NBCSports.com

Posted: Mar.29, 2007, 10:41 am EDT

It looks as if Brown and Brady will be back together next year. Troy Brown is in the Patriots' 2007 plans despite recent surgery to repair a ruptured patella tendon.

"I expect Troy to have a role with us this year as far as I'm concerned," Patriots head coach Bill Belichick told NBCSports.com on Wednesday. "He is part of the plan for next season."

Meanwhile, Brown told the Associated Press Wednesday night, "My intention is to play. That's what the deal is. We'll see what happens. I'm not writing anything in stone but my intentions are to play.

Brown, taken in the eighth round of the 1993 draft by the Patriots, went under the knife after New England's AFC Championship loss to the Colts, according to The Boston Herald.

Currently a free agent, Brown is the Patriots' longest tenured player. He's got icon status in New England, where he's viewed as the embodiment of the gritty resourcefulness that helped the Pats win three Super Bowls and four AFC Championship appearances in the past six seasons.

The Patriots have been on a wideout binge during free agency, signing Wes Welker, Donte Stallworth and Kelley Washington to join a group that last year included Brown, Reche Caldwell and Jabar Gaffney as its principal targets.

But Brown's value as a slot receiver, returner and pinch DB keeps him relevant even as he approaches his 36th birthday this July.

Last season, Brown caught 43 passes and became the Patriots all-time leading receiver in receptions (557).

LINKNow, the title is a bit misleading as Brown is not yet re-signed. But it looks like he should be back if he's healthy.

Sweet! I love Troy Brown. His character and work ethic are beyond reproach. My guess is the odd man out in the WR race will be Kelly Washington, unless he drops jaws in camp. They will carry at least one more WR than they are accustomed to...lesson learned from last season.

As for the draft, I am growing increasingly confident that if the two 1st round picks stay put, one of them is Brian Leonard from Rutgers. The other, and most likely the first of the two, will be a DB. Hall won't fall to them, neither will Chris Houston, but Aaron Ross should. This assumes something bizarre doesn't happen like a Patrick Willis falls to them.

An earlier poster brought up Zak DeOssie (LB-Brown) as a possibility later in the draft (3rd round). I'm already on record as being on board with this. I know they like him and there are relationships there. Not to mention, he is the cerebral type that BB loves and one who can absorb the system more quickly.

Oakland....you are on the clock. Let's get this started already!

 

[PatsFanCT]

Sweet!

I love Troy Brown. His character and work ethic are beyond reproach. My guess is the odd man out in the WR race will be Kelly Washington, unless he drops jaws in camp. They will carry at least one more WR than they are accustomed to...lesson learned from last season.

As for the draft, I am growing increasingly confident that if the two 1st round picks stay put, one of them is Brian Leonard from Rutgers. The other, and most likely the first of the two, will be a DB. Hall won't fall to them, neither will Chris Houston, but Aaron Ross should. This assumes something bizarre doesn't happen like a Patrick Willis falls to them.

An earlier poster brought up Zak DeOssie (LB-Brown) as a possibility later in the draft (3rd round). I'm already on record as being on board with this. I know they like him and there are relationships there. Not to mention, he is the cerebral type that BB loves and one who can absorb the system more quickly.

Oakland....you are on the clock. Let's get this started already!

Am I the only one who thinks Kelly Washington will be the number two receiver on this team and have great success? I may be optimistic, but I think he will flourish in this situation. I think he’s about as under the radar player as under the radar gets.

 

[Boston]

Sweet!

I love Troy Brown. His character and work ethic are beyond reproach. My guess is the odd man out in the WR race will be Kelly Washington, unless he drops jaws in camp. They will carry at least one more WR than they are accustomed to...lesson learned from last season.

As for the draft, I am growing increasingly confident that if the two 1st round picks stay put, one of them is Brian Leonard from Rutgers. The other, and most likely the first of the two, will be a DB. Hall won't fall to them, neither will Chris Houston, but Aaron Ross should. This assumes something bizarre doesn't happen like a Patrick Willis falls to them.

An earlier poster brought up Zak DeOssie (LB-Brown) as a possibility later in the draft (3rd round). I'm already on record as being on board with this. I know they like him and there are relationships there. Not to mention, he is the cerebral type that BB loves and one who can absorb the system more quickly.

Oakland....you are on the clock. Let's get this started already!

Am I the only one who thinks Kelly Washington will be the number two receiver on this team and have great success? I may be optimistic, but I think he will flourish in this situation. I think he’s about as under the radar player as under the radar gets.

Washington is a tough guy to get a handle on. It's a little difficult to handicap new WRs in the Patriot system. It's not an easy offense for WRs and veterans like Donald Hayes, David Terrell, Doug Gabriel and Charles Johnson came here and were clueless (in Terrell's case he wasn't any good either). On the flipside guys like David Patten and Jabar Gaffney who were basically street free agents came in and picked things up relatively quickly. Washington has some physical skills and his size would be a nice addition to the unit but right now I can see scenarios ranging from him getting cut to being a solid contributor. He's really a mystery and until the pads go on and you see how he picks up the system he'll remain a mystery.

 

[Mr. Pink]

Sweet!

I love Troy Brown. His character and work ethic are beyond reproach. My guess is the odd man out in the WR race will be Kelly Washington, unless he drops jaws in camp. They will carry at least one more WR than they are accustomed to...lesson learned from last season.

As for the draft, I am growing increasingly confident that if the two 1st round picks stay put, one of them is Brian Leonard from Rutgers. The other, and most likely the first of the two, will be a DB. Hall won't fall to them, neither will Chris Houston, but Aaron Ross should. This assumes something bizarre doesn't happen like a Patrick Willis falls to them.

An earlier poster brought up Zak DeOssie (LB-Brown) as a possibility later in the draft (3rd round). I'm already on record as being on board with this. I know they like him and there are relationships there. Not to mention, he is the cerebral type that BB loves and one who can absorb the system more quickly.

Oakland....you are on the clock. Let's get this started already! <_<

Am I the only one who thinks Kelly Washington will be the number two receiver on this team and have great success? I may be optimistic, but I think he will flourish in this situation. I think he’s about as under the radar player as under the radar gets.

Washington is a tough guy to get a handle on. It's a little difficult to handicap new WRs in the Patriot system. It's not an easy offense for WRs and veterans like Donald Hayes, David Terrell, Doug Gabriel and Charles Johnson came here and were clueless (in Terrell's case he wasn't any good either). On the flipside guys like David Patten and Jabar Gaffney who were basically street free agents came in and picked things up relatively quickly. Washington has some physical skills and his size would be a nice addition to the unit but right now I can see scenarios ranging from him getting cut to being a solid contributor. He's really a mystery and until the pads go on and you see how he picks up the system he'll remain a mystery.

Agreed here, which was the basis for my argument against Washington. Of the new guys brought in, he's the guy whose role is yet to be defined...or speculated even. His price is low, so his cap hit is low. He may have a physical advantage over a Gaffney or a Caldwell, but they know the system.Long and short, Washington has a steeper hill to climb than the others. It's practical to think that he may end up the odd man out.

 

[David Yudkin]

Encouraging news on Jackson’s knee

By Albert Breer/MetroWest News/ Patriots Notebook

Friday, March 30, 2007 - Updated: 12:54 AM EST

There are few dirtier phrases in football than “torn ACL.”

But in the case of Patriots receiver Chad Jackson, that term may not be all that it seems. According to multiple sources close to the 2006 second-round pick, the degree of the tear in Jackson’s knee was very slight compared to most cases.

The injury happened on a kickoff in the AFC Championship Game against the Colts and did not involve contact. In the days following the injury, word is that Jackson thought he had torn his ACL, but the swelling was so minimal that most around him doubted it.

An MRI detected the tear. Reconstructive surgery cannot be performed until after the swelling goes down, so Jackson was able to have the operation quickly.

Sources say that Jackson will be running by the time the Patriots hold their veteran minicamp in June and should be cleared for contact by the opening of training camp in mid-July. But the thought is that, with the two-week trip involving the China Bowl in Beijing looming over camp, Jackson will return to the field after the team’s first two preseason games, both against the Seahawks.

These are all projections, of course. Dr. Paul Weitzel, an orthopedic surgeon for the Boston Sports and Shoulder Center, which works with the Celtics, said that the lack of swelling occurs in less than 10 percent of ACL tears. Basically, it signals a lack of bleeding into the knee, which allows a player to regain full range of motion quicker. And since full range of motion must be achieved before reconstructive knee surgery is performed, that accelerates the recovery timetable.

But, Weitzel added, the rehabilitation process remains at 6-12 months, meaning that the lack of swelling only works to cut the time between the injury and the surgery. After surgery, the rehab process is the same, whether the patient had swelling before the surgery. “We replace, not repair, the ligament,” said Weitzel. “The big difference comes in whether the ACL is competent or not after the injury. If it’s not, it needs to be replaced.”

Weitzel confirmed the sources’ assertion that Jackson should be running by June and could be cleared by July, but added that the receiver would be “relearning his knee” at the beginning. With replaced fibers in his leg, Jackson would have to regain coordination there, and the speed at which one does that (projected at 12-18 months after surgery) is usually the difference between an athlete who recovers quickly and one who doesn’t.

A hamstring injury cost Jackson almost all of last year’s training camp, and a groin ailment suffered in practice sidelined him for the first two games of December. The ACL injury is the latest hit, though Weitzel emphasized a string of injuries to start a pro career is not that uncommon and shouldn’t derail Jackson’s rehab in the least.

“Going from a college season to a professional season, there’s a jump in hours of activity and demands,” Weitzel said. “Some take longer to adapt, and that adaptation is manifested sometimes in injuries. Once they get the conditioning down, they’re usually just fine.”

 

[Bri]

Encouraging news on Jackson’s kneeBy Albert Breer/MetroWest News/ Patriots NotebookFriday, March 30, 2007 - Updated: 12:54 AM ESTThere are few dirtier phrases in football than “torn ACL.” But in the case of Patriots receiver Chad Jackson, that term may not be all that it seems. According to multiple sources close to the 2006 second-round pick, the degree of the tear in Jackson’s knee was very slight compared to most cases. The injury happened on a kickoff in the AFC Championship Game against the Colts and did not involve contact. In the days following the injury, word is that Jackson thought he had torn his ACL, but the swelling was so minimal that most around him doubted it. An MRI detected the tear. Reconstructive surgery cannot be performed until after the swelling goes down, so Jackson was able to have the operation quickly. Sources say that Jackson will be running by the time the Patriots hold their veteran minicamp in June and should be cleared for contact by the opening of training camp in mid-July. But the thought is that, with the two-week trip involving the China Bowl in Beijing looming over camp, Jackson will return to the field after the team’s first two preseason games, both against the Seahawks. These are all projections, of course. Dr. Paul Weitzel, an orthopedic surgeon for the Boston Sports and Shoulder Center, which works with the Celtics, said that the lack of swelling occurs in less than 10 percent of ACL tears. Basically, it signals a lack of bleeding into the knee, which allows a player to regain full range of motion quicker. And since full range of motion must be achieved before reconstructive knee surgery is performed, that accelerates the recovery timetable. But, Weitzel added, the rehabilitation process remains at 6-12 months, meaning that the lack of swelling only works to cut the time between the injury and the surgery. After surgery, the rehab process is the same, whether the patient had swelling before the surgery. “We replace, not repair, the ligament,” said Weitzel. “The big difference comes in whether the ACL is competent or not after the injury. If it’s not, it needs to be replaced.” Weitzel confirmed the sources’ assertion that Jackson should be running by June and could be cleared by July, but added that the receiver would be “relearning his knee” at the beginning. With replaced fibers in his leg, Jackson would have to regain coordination there, and the speed at which one does that (projected at 12-18 months after surgery) is usually the difference between an athlete who recovers quickly and one who doesn’t. A hamstring injury cost Jackson almost all of last year’s training camp, and a groin ailment suffered in practice sidelined him for the first two games of December. The ACL injury is the latest hit, though Weitzel emphasized a string of injuries to start a pro career is not that uncommon and shouldn’t derail Jackson’s rehab in the least. “Going from a college season to a professional season, there’s a jump in hours of activity and demands,” Weitzel said. “Some take longer to adapt, and that adaptation is manifested sometimes in injuries. Once they get the conditioning down, they’re usually just fine.”

I think the author of this missed Weitzel stating that they replace the ligament, is that possible?July seems like that "oops he reinjured it again" kind of early

 

[Boston]

It sure seems like the Pats have been poking around the Michigan defenders. This article is on Lamarr Woodley and on paper he seems like a good fit just like Leon Hall and David Harris.

http://patriots.bostonherald.com/patriots/...rticleid=192126

 

[nerangers]

NFL | Dillon may retire

Tue, 3 Apr 2007 16:40:27 -0700

The NFL Network reports free-agent RB Corey Dillon (Patriots) will retire if he doesn't find the "right situation."

 

[David Yudkin]

NFL | Dillon may retire

Tue, 3 Apr 2007 16:40:27 -0700

The NFL Network reports free-agent RB Corey Dillon (Patriots) will retire if he doesn't find the "right situation."

He's been saying that for a month.

 

[nerangers]

Draft Talk...

Pats Mock Draft Central - I tried to cut and paste the table here, but it looked real bad.

Ask PFW: The draft talk never sleeps

 

[nerangers]

NFL | Dillon may retire

Tue, 3 Apr 2007 16:40:27 -0700

The NFL Network reports free-agent RB Corey Dillon (Patriots) will retire if he doesn't find the "right situation."

He's been saying that for a month.

I know he has been saying it, but it seems like any offers are out there are definitely drying up. I was reading online that some felt he might come back as a Pat, I don't think it will happen.Any chance of bringing Corey Dillon back for one more year? Sounds like he's willing to take 10-12 snaps a game.

He got 10-12 carries last year Jim. I’m not sure why you say it sounds like he’s willing to do that. Dillon has been talking with various teams and is reportedly visiting Tennessee this week. It’s obvious that he still wants to play and reports of his retirement were a bit premature. On the other hand, if Dillon thinks he’s going to get 20-25 carries a game somewhere, either he or the team that allows that to happen is delusional. Dillon had trouble staying on the field for two consecutive plays last year, how in the world is he going to carry the ball five times in a row? I think there’s a good chance Dillon plays somewhere in the NFL this year, although I seriously doubt that place will be New England.

-Tom Casale

 

[David Yudkin]

IMO, Dillon plays the waiting game until a RB goes down to injury in training camp somewhere and then has some leverage to sign more on his terms when the RB has dried up.

 

[Beaumont]

IMO, Dillon plays the waiting game until a RB goes down to injury in training camp somewhere and then has some leverage to sign more on his terms when the RB has dried up.

DillonBrownBarlowAll playing this game at the same time ... loses its effectiveness ...

 

[Bri]

If the Pats find a way(trade, "falls" to them or whatnot) to draft Patrick Willis would you be ecstatic?