New England Patriots OFFICIAL Offseason Thread (1 Viewer)

[captain_amazing]

The Jets played a great game today, and ended what was a surprisingly terrific season for the young Patriot's team. So rather than dwell, let's move on to offseason, as I believe this team has great things in store for next year.

First, the young D has gained valuable season and postseason experience that they can build on next season. I think the secondary has come a long way from 2009, and with Leigh Bodden back in the mix, could be quite formidable.

Second, the offense has reverted back to its pre-2007 form, heavily involving the TE's in games, using lots of different screens with different formations, and using the pass to setup the run. The offense certainly would not have put up the amass of points it had throughout the season without the unexpected contributions of Woodhead, Green-Ellis, and the TE's, not to mention OL Dan Connolly, who saw increased action at the RG spot because of an injury to Stephen Neal.

Third, the special teams will get back Gostowski, which is huge. Graham filled in adequately, but the long, frequent touchback kickoffs really helped the team establish great field position. Also, Tate had a great first half of the year, returning two kickoffs for TDs, but really struggled in the latter part. I think there will, and should be some discussion regarding his role on the team, especially in reference to his struggles in the return game more recently. Edelman came on late in the punt return game, one of which he returned for a franchise long 93 (IIRC) TD.

I think BB had a fantastic year, and probably coached his best season, bringing a "rebuilding" year to the NFL's best in the regular season. The biggest question might be at OC, with Bill O'Brien's very questionable play calling in the Jet's game. Throughout the season, he has exceeded my expectations, but in a big playoff game against your biggest rival, you need to be at the top of your game. And while the Pat's clearly did not execute on the field on all cylinders, their gameplan offensively was a big head scratcher. I would not be apposed to seeing the Pats look for a replacement this offseason if someone who would fit the Pats system really well was available.

Overall, they certainly have a slate of things to address, like every other team. But I would certainly like to start off by saying what a wonderful success this season was, and hope they can build off of it for next season.

 

[HellToupee]

you guys think the Patriots have to beef up their coaching staff?

seems like its been a serious downward trend in the playoffs ever since Weiss & RC left , although McDaniels did a good job his year as OC

 

[Boston]

I will post this in every Freakin' thread this offseason...pass rush, pass rush, pass rush...until they are able to put consistent pressure on the QB they will not win another title....there were other issues today and the Jets passing attack was pretty conservtive but Sanchez could have drank a beer befrore he made most of his throws...

 

[captain_amazing]

you guys think the Patriots have to beef up their coaching staff? seems like its been a serious downward trend in the playoffs ever since Weiss & RC left , although McDaniels did a good job his year as OC

Yes. I wouldn't say "beef," because there were a lot of remarks earlier in the season that BB had too much on his plate because they did not name a OC and DC. But it really was just a label that he did not feel anyone had actually earned, and I'm not sure anyone has.They typically like to promote from within, so I would be surprised if they reach on and make any big coaching moves this offseason, but I think it is necessary for them to be competitive in the long-term, especially in the playoffs. I'm not sure who would fit the bill as OC, though. I'd like to hear others' thoughts on that.

 

[timschochet]

Seems to me that they lack speed at wide receiver- Branch, Welker, the two tight ends- these are Brady's main targets, and I think it cost them today. There's no one there to stretch the field.

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

Seems to me that they lack speed at wide receiver- Branch, Welker, the two tight ends- these are Brady's main targets, and I think it cost them today. There's no one there to stretch the field.

gee I wonder who they were missing?Brandon Tate is not the answer there

 

[captain_amazing]

Seems to me that they lack speed at wide receiver- Branch, Welker, the two tight ends- these are Brady's main targets, and I think it cost them today. There's no one there to stretch the field.

gee I wonder who they were missing?Brandon Tate is not the answer there

Completely agree - that and a pass rusher should be the use of the Pat's two first round picks, unless there is something better in FA. I think Tate has seen his last days as the Pats WR3. They will keep him for his kick return skills, but won't see the field offensively.

 

[TheWheel]

I dunno about Tate. He has a full year now to get better down the field. With Moss there, he wasn't really asked to do so. The opportunity is now there.

As for the coaching staff, I don't see why Belichick would do anything. This team lost on the field, not in preparation or the locker room.

 

[AB in DC]

I dunno about Tate. He has a full year now to get better down the field. With Moss there, he wasn't really asked to do so. The opportunity is now there.As for the coaching staff, I don't see why Belichick would do anything. This team lost on the field, not in preparation or the locker room.

Yes, but part of the blame lies in the playcalling. The offensive coaches couldn't figure out how to get the right package on the field to find the kind of mismatches that the Pats normally live on. And when they had some success in the 3Q with the spread offense -- which was the Pats' bread-and-butter for the past few years -- they didn't stick with it.

 

[fruity pebbles]

Like to see pryce more involved next year. So hard to get a top pass rusher, good luck there.

 

[KarmaPolice]

Seems to me that they lack speed at wide receiver- Branch, Welker, the two tight ends- these are Brady's main targets, and I think it cost them today. There's no one there to stretch the field.

Yep. I think the dink and dunk offense finally ran it's course, especially against a division rival who has seen it this year. They did well by adding the TEs and upping the amount of formations, but every NFL team still needs a WR who can stretch the field (of course if Revis is on that guy, aren't they really right back to the dink and dunk offense?). I guess at that point that would free up the TEs and Welker a bit more too. I think they needass RushVertical threat WRas a fan, I do get a little tired of the no-name Rbs. Would love to see them get a RB with that 2.1 pick - maybe the kid from Illinois?BPA for the D the rest of the way.

 

[shortbow]

9 Picks:

1. 1/17

2. 1/27

3. 2/05

4. 2/27

5. 3/10

6. 3/27

7. 4/27

8. 5/27

9. 6/27

If hes there, id like them to reach for Ingram, BJGE/Woody/Ingram would be a great backfield.

A pass rush for the love of god.

Refill the O-Line.

They should reach for a stud WR.

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

Seems to me that they lack speed at wide receiver- Branch, Welker, the two tight ends- these are Brady's main targets, and I think it cost them today. There's no one there to stretch the field.

Yep. I think the dink and dunk offense finally ran it's course, especially against a division rival who has seen it this year. They did well by adding the TEs and upping the amount of formations, but every NFL team still needs a WR who can stretch the field (of course if Revis is on that guy, aren't they really right back to the dink and dunk offense?). I guess at that point that would free up the TEs and Welker a bit more too. I think they needass RushVertical threat WRas a fan, I do get a little tired of the no-name Rbs. Would love to see them get a RB with that 2.1 pick - maybe the kid from Illinois?BPA for the D the rest of the way.

BJGE seems to produce when given the chance but they just dont run enough for RB to matterThey might be able to take Ingram with the Raiders pick

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

9 Picks:

1. 1/17 - 17th overall

2. 1/32 - 32nd overall 2. 1/27

3. 2/01 - 33rd overall

4. 2/32 - 64th overall

5. 3/10 - 74th overall

6. 3/32 - 96th overall

7. 4/32 - 128th overall

8. 5/32 - 160th overall

9. 6/27 - 187th overall

I cant even think about what they need atm, loss still hurts my butt.

Fixed unless they trade down/up they will not have the 32nd pick in the draft

 

[Ramblin Wreck]

9 Picks: 1. 1/17 - 17th overall2. 1/32 - 32nd overall3. 2/01 - 33rd overall4. 2/32 - 64th overall5. 3/10 - 74th overall6. 3/32 - 96th overall7. 4/32 - 128th overall8. 5/32 - 160th overall9. 6/27 - 187th overallI cant even think about what they need atm, loss still hurts my butt.

They aren't picking 32nd in any round

 

[netnalp]

Kiwanuka will be a FA but he has a bad disk. The team claims the time frame given by the DR.s to re-examine the injury hasn't arrived yet. Seems like an odd reply. Might be worth the risk. Rumor is the Giants may offer him a low 1yr deal to limit their risk and he can try to re-establish his value.

Before he got hurt he was the most effective pass rusher for the Giants this season, Kiwanuka had a team-leading four sacks, plus 11 tackles through the first three games.

Giants GM Jerry Reese suggested that the team may only offer impending free agent DE Mathias Kiwanuka a one-year deal this offseason.

According to Reese, the one-year offer would be "so that he can reestablish his value." The proposal makes sense, but if Kiwanuka hits the market he'll have plenty of suitors probably willing to go multiple years despite a season-ending neck injury. With 2010 first-round pick Jason Pierre-Paul clearly ready for a big role, Kiwi may have played his last snap as a Giant.

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpag...6&sport=NFL

 

[Ilov80s]

Seems to me that they lack speed at wide receiver- Branch, Welker, the two tight ends- these are Brady's main targets, and I think it cost them today. There's no one there to stretch the field.

Seems they needed someone who could take the ball deep, take the top off the defense.

 

[David Yudkin]

I think the Pats will have a better team but a worse record next year. Way too many things went right for them this year in terms of bounces and turnovers. Those types of things historically don't repeat from year to year.

 

[Kit Fisto]

1. Pass rush.

2. Legit RB.

3. Deep threat.

4. OC.

 

[The Ref]

1 Pass Rush

2 Pass Rush

3 Pass Rush

Another top WR and a RB would be nice.

Yesterday was an awful loss. But the young D really made leaps and bounds forward this year.

 

[David Yudkin]

The loss yesterday brought to light (to me at least) that the Pats have two significant issues:

1) Because they blow so many people out, they really are not that used to playing in close games and have gotten accustomed to playing the pass and mostly taking it easy in a lot of games in the 4th quarter. Basically, not a lot of gut check time and not a lot of having to play from behind. In 2009, if they were behind on the road, forget about it, they were going to lose.

2) They overall have done a great job planning and scheming games heading into game day . . . but when their plan goes south they are stubborn as all get out in making adjustments and coming up with a PLAN B. Their losses to the Giants, Ravens, and Jets in the post season magnify this trend and the loss to the Browns earlier this year was also another perfect example.

When it was clear that the Jets were not blitzing and stacking the underneath routes and the middle of the field, NE needed to do something different. But they really didn't make any major adjustments. I'm still not sure what they were thinking running off nearly 8 minutes of clock in the 4th quarter down my two scores.

There were times when the receivers ran their routes and got to where they were supposed to be and then ALL of them stopped. Brady was standing in the pocket like a point guard with no one running around to pass to. Some plays he had a ton of time to throw the ball but no one was moving or trying to break free. Hats off to the Jets for coming up with a way to confuse him, but the coaching staff needed to come up with some other plays to combat the defense and didn't.

 

[captain_amazing]

The loss yesterday brought to light (to me at least) that the Pats have two significant issues:

1) Because they blow so many people out, they really are not that used to playing in close games and have gotten accustomed to playing the pass and mostly taking it easy in a lot of games in the 4th quarter. Basically, not a lot of gut check time and not a lot of having to play from behind. In 2009, if they were behind on the road, forget about it, they were going to lose.

2) They overall have done a great job planning and scheming games heading into game day . . . but when their plan goes south they are stubborn as all get out in making adjustments and coming up with a PLAN B. Their losses to the Giants, Ravens, and Jets in the post season magnify this trend and the loss to the Browns earlier this year was also another perfect example.

When it was clear that the Jets were not blitzing and stacking the underneath routes and the middle of the field, NE needed to do something different. But they really didn't make any major adjustments. I'm still not sure what they were thinking running off nearly 8 minutes of clock in the 4th quarter down my two scores.

There were times when the receivers ran their routes and got to where they were supposed to be and then ALL of them stopped. Brady was standing in the pocket like a point guard with no one running around to pass to. Some plays he had a ton of time to throw the ball but no one was moving or trying to break free. Hats off to the Jets for coming up with a way to confuse him, but the coaching staff needed to come up with some other plays to combat the defense and didn't.

My thoughts exactly - adjustments were not made until the 4th quarter, when they were down by two scores and finally decided to feature their 1000 yard regular season rusher. Of course he was going to have success running with the Jets playing conservatively in the secondary, but it just really blows my mind that, when they found very little luck in the passing game early on, they did not go to the run with Green-Ellis. Woodhead, although great, is much more of a change of pace RB, but they featured him in most of their running schemes. Why not soften the middle of the field with Green-Ellis, or at least attempt to? I'm not so sure they would have had success, but.... well it doesn't matter anyway :/.

So what coaching staff needs to make adjustments? Does it need to come from BB, the OC, or both? I would assume it is a combination of both, but again, this inability to not adjust in-game in response to an ineffective offensive scheme against a particular opponent goes back to at least last year.

I hate getting down on O'Brien, especially when he transitioned the offense so well after Moss, yet I can't help but feel it is him that lacks the ability to make those in-game adjustments.

 

[kyoun1e]

Seems to me that they lack speed at wide receiver- Branch, Welker, the two tight ends- these are Brady's main targets, and I think it cost them today. There's no one there to stretch the field.

gee I wonder who they were missing?Brandon Tate is not the answer there

Completely agree - that and a pass rusher should be the use of the Pat's two first round picks, unless there is something better in FA. I think Tate has seen his last days as the Pats WR3. They will keep him for his kick return skills, but won't see the field offensively.

This is a bit of a stretch. NE doesn't play the Jets every game of the season. And you have to admit, the Jets defensive performance yesterday was damn impressive. These WRs did quite well all season. And Taylor Price looked real good in limited action. Add to this that Gronkowski, with one full year and a playoff game under his belt, is likely to emerge as a legit #1 TE in Tony G. mold.I don't think you're going to see a huge investment here.KY

 

[David Yudkin]

I'm curious as to why so many people are quick to want a "real" RB. The hodge podge of RB total production wise has been very good in recent seasons.

Here are the yfs and total TD numbers from their championship teams:

2001 2338/20

2003 2189/9

2004 2669/17

2010 2437/19

I don't see anything wrong with those numbers. Both BJGE and Woodhead are cheap. I'm not sure spending a lot of money for someone else would be a great investment and that money might be better spent at other spots. I guess it would depend on who they got at RB and for how much.

 

[parrot]

I'm curious as to why so many people are quick to want a "real" RB. The hodge podge of RB total production wise has been very good in recent seasons.

Here are the yfs and total TD numbers from their championship teams:

2001 2338/20

2003 2189/9

2004 2669/17

2010 2437/19

I don't see anything wrong with those numbers. Both BJGE and Woodhead are cheap. I'm not sure spending a lot of money for someone else would be a great investment and that money might be better spent at other spots. I guess it would depend on who they got at RB and for how much.

Although I tend to agree that BJGE and Woody are seviceable unless the right deal came along, I guess I would take it to mean that Pats fans would like to see a #1 back who was a home run threat. BJGE did fine this year, but it's not like he's the type of back to really strike fear into a defense, or to make them really have to scheme around him anywhere as much as the passing game.

 

[captain_amazing]

I'm curious as to why so many people are quick to want a "real" RB. The hodge podge of RB total production wise has been very good in recent seasons.

Here are the yfs and total TD numbers from their championship teams:

2001 2338/20

2003 2189/9

2004 2669/17

2010 2437/19

I don't see anything wrong with those numbers. Both BJGE and Woodhead are cheap. I'm not sure spending a lot of money for someone else would be a great investment and that money might be better spent at other spots. I guess it would depend on who they got at RB and for how much.

Although I tend to agree that BJGE and Woody are seviceable unless the right deal came along, I guess I would take it to mean that Pats fans would like to see a #1 back who was a home run threat. BJGE did fine this year, but it's not like he's the type of back to really strike fear into a defense, or to make them really have to scheme around him anywhere as much as the passing game.

That's the general sentiment of those wishing for a RB. The Pats aren't going to change their offensive scheme, which will always feature the pass before the run. So it really doesn't make a ton of sense to spend top dollar on a featured back. Now, I could see them using a 2-3 round draft pick for a RB they think would compliment the group now (I would assume they will be looking for a big, power running back to replace Morris, assuming they don't resign him).

@KY - While I agree the WRs did well during the season, they still did not have 3 legitimate WRs. They had 2 legit WRs, a TE masquerading as a decent WR (early on), and several others that did not contribute enough (including Tate). Out of all of those WRs, non pose any sort of deep threat to defenses. A WR with really good speed, that can get open down the field would help the Pats tremendously in both their passing game and their running game. I don't think Tate is the answer, and I'm not holding my breath on Price.

But, who knows!

 

[KarmaPolice]

I'm curious as to why so many people are quick to want a "real" RB. The hodge podge of RB total production wise has been very good in recent seasons.Here are the yfs and total TD numbers from their championship teams:2001 2338/202003 2189/92004 2669/172010 2437/19I don't see anything wrong with those numbers. Both BJGE and Woodhead are cheap. I'm not sure spending a lot of money for someone else would be a great investment and that money might be better spent at other spots. I guess it would depend on who they got at RB and for how much.

It's probably more as a fan perspective for me. While BGE and Woodhead are great stories, as a fan I wish the Pats had a RB that put a little more fear in the opposing team's D. Somebody they had to respect a little more or could be counted on to grind out closer games. I am sure with a rookie cap a RB with the late 1st or that 2.1 pick wouldn't be too expensive. What scares me is that I think a lot of the success this year is b/c teams looked at who was back there and tried to take away the passing thinking they'd rather have BGE/Woodhead trying to beat them than Brady. Now teams have tape of this year, so NE won't be able to get away with the element of surprise, so I'd rather have a RB back there that is more physically gifted than those two. Of course I think every year NE fans bring up that they need a RB, and every year they don't get one.

 

[Adebisi]

Boston had it right. We need someone who can actually rush the passer. Preferably 2 or 3 guys who can rush the passer. I'd take 3 OLBs with proven pass rushing ability (or strong potential) before I addressed the lesser needs at RB and/or WR.

 

[Balco]

Just an outsiders view, but a few thoughts:

1. I think they need some D Line help. Jets had their way with the D Line. Would have to think they will draft a run stuffing D End. This is a pretty deep draft for 3-4 ends, and I think the Pats will take one with one of their first 4 picks.

2. Pass rushing linebacker. Also a good year, IMO for 3-4 OLBers. Akeem Ayers would be a great pick if he slips to their pick.

Here is a stab at their first couple picks:

1.17 Akeem Ayers, LB UCLA

1.27 Cameron Heyward, DE Ohio State

2.05 Mike Pouncey, C Florida

 

[12punch]

Just an outsiders view, but a few thoughts:1. I think they need some D Line help. Jets had their way with the D Line. Would have to think they will draft a run stuffing D End. This is a pretty deep draft for 3-4 ends, and I think the Pats will take one with one of their first 4 picks.2. Pass rushing linebacker. Also a good year, IMO for 3-4 OLBers. Akeem Ayers would be a great pick if he slips to their pick.Here is a stab at their first couple picks:1.17 Akeem Ayers, LB UCLA1.27 Cameron Heyward, DE Ohio State2.05 Mike Pouncey, C Florida

I don't know about the names in particular, but I think you're dead on on the positions --- RB would be fine, but I don't think they actually have the available picks. They have needs at OLB and DE, and I'd expect a couple higher picks to reload the O-line. Maybe another corner in the third. I wouldn't complain about WR but I wouldn't pass on the lines for one, and who would you expect to get cut. ---- Branch?

 

[Spike]

Just an outsiders view, but a few thoughts:

1. I think they need some D Line help. Jets had their way with the D Line. Would have to think they will draft a run stuffing D End. This is a pretty deep draft for 3-4 ends, and I think the Pats will take one with one of their first 4 picks.

2. Pass rushing linebacker. Also a good year, IMO for 3-4 OLBers. Akeem Ayers would be a great pick if he slips to their pick.

Here is a stab at their first couple picks:

1.17 Akeem Ayers, LB UCLA

1.27 Cameron Heyward, DE Ohio State

2.05 Mike Pouncey, C Florida

Isn't the Pats first 2nd round pick the 2.01?

 

[((Morpheus))]

Just an outsiders view, but a few thoughts:1. I think they need some D Line help. Jets had their way with the D Line. Would have to think they will draft a run stuffing D End. This is a pretty deep draft for 3-4 ends, and I think the Pats will take one with one of their first 4 picks.2. Pass rushing linebacker. Also a good year, IMO for 3-4 OLBers. Akeem Ayers would be a great pick if he slips to their pick.Here is a stab at their first couple picks:1.17 Akeem Ayers, LB UCLA1.27 Cameron Heyward, DE Ohio State2.05 Mike Pouncey, C Florida

 

[12punch]

Just an outsiders view, but a few thoughts:

1. I think they need some D Line help. Jets had their way with the D Line. Would have to think they will draft a run stuffing D End. This is a pretty deep draft for 3-4 ends, and I think the Pats will take one with one of their first 4 picks.

2. Pass rushing linebacker. Also a good year, IMO for 3-4 OLBers. Akeem Ayers would be a great pick if he slips to their pick.

Here is a stab at their first couple picks:

1.17 Akeem Ayers, LB UCLA

1.27 Cameron Heyward, DE Ohio State

2.05 Mike Pouncey, C Florida

Isn't the Pats first 2nd round pick the 2.01?

I had thought it was but I'd have to check -- didn't we give Carolina a third last year for their 2011 second?

 

[David Yudkin]

The Pats DL had a ton of injuries all season long and were weak to begin with. They haven't had a great line pass rusher other than Seymour in his earlier years. The Pats have generated a pass rush more from the OLB than the DL.

 

[KarmaPolice]

Just an outsiders view, but a few thoughts:

1. I think they need some D Line help. Jets had their way with the D Line. Would have to think they will draft a run stuffing D End. This is a pretty deep draft for 3-4 ends, and I think the Pats will take one with one of their first 4 picks.

2. Pass rushing linebacker. Also a good year, IMO for 3-4 OLBers. Akeem Ayers would be a great pick if he slips to their pick.

Here is a stab at their first couple picks:

1.17 Akeem Ayers, LB UCLA

1.27 Cameron Heyward, DE Ohio State

2.05 Mike Pouncey, C Florida

I don't know about the names in particular, but I think you're dead on on the positions --- RB would be fine, but I don't think they actually have the available picks. They have needs at OLB and DE, and I'd expect a couple higher picks to reload the O-line.

Maybe another corner in the third.

I wouldn't complain about WR but I wouldn't pass on the lines for one, and who would you expect to get cut. ---- Branch?

They can't spare one of their 45 picks on a RB?

 

[12punch]

No, not the higher round picks -- maybe a later round

 

[Balco]

The Pats DL had a ton of injuries all season long and were weak to begin with. They haven't had a great line pass rusher other than Seymour in his earlier years. The Pats have generated a pass rush more from the OLB than the DL.

It all starts up front, and the Pats D was at their best with a front of Seymour, Wilfork, and Warren. They need to get back to that. Pioli is a wise man, I am sure they are going front 7 heavy. I would not be shocked to see them take a NT, and 2 DE with their first 6 picks. Wilfork needs to be given a break on D, he gets winded (obviously, it looks like he is 400 pounds). They need to get a NT that can play 20 snaps a game.I don't think they really need to address the offense, except some interior line depth. The Pats O was awesome this year. They run into a very good D in the playoffs, and people want them to draft a WR and a rb. They are fine at those positions, and should spend mid to late round picks on them if they find a player that offers value. They lost to the Jets because their D was overmatched. Solve the front 7 problem and they will be very tough to beat.

 

[KarmaPolice]

The Pats DL had a ton of injuries all season long and were weak to begin with. They haven't had a great line pass rusher other than Seymour in his earlier years. The Pats have generated a pass rush more from the OLB than the DL.

It all starts up front, and the Pats D was at their best with a front of Seymour, Wilfork, and Warren. They need to get back to that. Pioli is a wise man, I am sure they are going front 7 heavy. I would not be shocked to see them take a NT, and 2 DE with their first 6 picks. Wilfork needs to be given a break on D, he gets winded (obviously, it looks like he is 400 pounds). They need to get a NT that can play 20 snaps a game.I don't think they really need to address the offense, except some interior line depth. The Pats O was awesome this year. They run into a very good D in the playoffs, and people want them to draft a WR and a rb. They are fine at those positions, and should spend mid to late round picks on them if they find a player that offers value. They lost to the Jets because their D was overmatched. Solve the front 7 problem and they will be very tough to beat.

I guess I don't want to be 'fine' at the positions. I think they need another playmaker - either at WR or at RB. They did wonders for the O by getting the TEs last year which allowed them to add in a lot more formations/plays. However, I think what caught up with them is that even though they had a lot of formations, DCs knew that they couldn't stretch the field and they didn't have a RB that scared you. That allowed them to drop back, cover all the intermediate stuff, and limit severely what the Pats could do on Sunday. I think the O would benefit greatly by having a RB that is more respected from the DCs or vertical threat WR that would open up the intermediate stuff that the Pats have lived off of for the past couple years.

I would love it if they focused on the front 7 and OL for a majority of the picks, but would also love to see them grab a playmaker with the late first or 2.1 pick.

 

[Phlash]

Boston had it right. We need someone who can actually rush the passer. Preferably 2 or 3 guys who can rush the passer. I'd take 3 OLBs with proven pass rushing ability (or strong potential) before I addressed the lesser needs at RB and/or WR.

I'm with you. Toss out the mediocre pass rushers and put in some guys who will blow by offensive lineman and who make sacks and force turnovers

 

[Sinrman]

Seems to me that they lack speed at wide receiver- Branch, Welker, the two tight ends- these are Brady's main targets, and I think it cost them today. There's no one there to stretch the field.

This is what I'm thinking. The Pats have a lot of draft picks. Go with a top WR and groom him. Let some more oldies go and remain young.

 

[munchkin]

The loss yesterday brought to light (to me at least) that the Pats have two significant issues:

1) Because they blow so many people out, they really are not that used to playing in close games and have gotten accustomed to playing the pass and mostly taking it easy in a lot of games in the 4th quarter. Basically, not a lot of gut check time and not a lot of having to play from behind. In 2009, if they were behind on the road, forget about it, they were going to lose.

2) They overall have done a great job planning and scheming games heading into game day . . . but when their plan goes south they are stubborn as all get out in making adjustments and coming up with a PLAN B. Their losses to the Giants, Ravens, and Jets in the post season magnify this trend and the loss to the Browns earlier this year was also another perfect example.

When it was clear that the Jets were not blitzing and stacking the underneath routes and the middle of the field, NE needed to do something different. But they really didn't make any major adjustments. I'm still not sure what they were thinking running off nearly 8 minutes of clock in the 4th quarter down my two scores.



There were times when the receivers ran their routes and got to where they were supposed to be and then ALL of them stopped. Brady was standing in the pocket like a point guard with no one running around to pass to. Some plays he had a ton of time to throw the ball but no one was moving or trying to break free. Hats off to the Jets for coming up with a way to confuse him, but the coaching staff needed to come up with some other plays to combat the defense and didn't.

The Patriots seeming inability to adjust on the fly is disturbing. It seems that Brady is so comfortable within the short game scheme that he is very reluctant to come out of it. I would like to know how many targets Tate had in Sunday's game. The one pass (I saw) he threw to Tate he was open but Brady missed him. Tate did a nice job of accelerating towards the ball but it was off target. The Patriots have had so much success with the short game and TE's down the seam that the long ball to the outside has become an after thought.

I was wondering if the inexperience of the young TE's didn't hurt the offense this week. The team's in season offense worked so well that there always seemed to be at least one target open but with the coverage schemes the Jets successfully implemented the TE's didn't have the experience to know where to take themselves on the field to create an opening for Brady to pass. Hopefully with time they can work on creating their own space outside the designed route. It has been long said that Brady won't throw the ball unless the receiver is in the "right" place and as with Manning timing and placement is everything.

Can poster here remind me which outside receiver has done real well against Revis and company this year. Manning threw one pass to Wayne last week, Revis shut down Andre Johnson earlier in the year (4 recep 32 yds); Calvin (1 recep 13 yds) its not like one would expect Tate to blow it up against Revis.

 

[David Yudkin]

The other bizarre oddity is that in the last three years Brady has played, the Pats are 40-8 in the regular season (.833). They are 24-0 at home (1.000) and 16-8 on the road (.667). But they are just 2-3 in the postseason and 2-2 at home in that time. They are starting to look like the early 2000s Colts.

 

[kyoun1e]

I think one of the big differences between the earlier part of the decade and the latter is the locker room.

You had the Harrison's and the Bruschi's, along with Brady and other savvy veterans, taking charge. Outside of Brady, I'm not sure that is present. You could say Wilfork, but he seems more likely to mind his own business. Mayo doesn't seem like that guy either.

On that note, one good thing about next year is that a lot of young talent gets a year older and wiser.

On the offensive side of the ball, we have Brady and mean spirited Mankins.

I think we need the same on the defensive side of the ball. Some mean SOB, a la N. Suh, who not only performs but brings a personality and an edge to that D everytime they take the field.

KY

 

[David Yudkin]

On the offensive side of the ball, we have Brady and mean spirited Mankins.

That might be wishful thinking. Mankins still has no contract.

 

[captain_amazing]

It has been widely speculated that six-time Pro Bowl receiver Chad Ochocinco will not be wearing a Cincinnati Bengals uniform next season. With his future in Cincinnati up in the air, Ochocinco has expressed interest in playing for Bill Belichick in New England.

“@RapSheet PePe and Bill #EPIC,” the charismatic receiver tweeted to the Boston Herald. PePe is one of Ochocinco’s many alter egos.

The 10-year veteran is coming off a disappointing season in which he only caught 67 passes for 831 yards and four touchdowns. Ochocinco feuded with head coach Marvin Lewis and raised questions about his maturity by becoming frustrated when quarterback Carson Palmer did not target him with great regularity.

Leading up to the Bengals-Patriots matchup in Week 1 of the regular season, Ochocinco and Belichick expressed mutual admiration for one another through the media.

“I like Chad – I like him as a player. I like him as a person,” Belichick said at the time, according to NESN.com. “I like his enthusiasm and the fun he has with football, and I like how he competes on the football field. I have a lot of respect for that.”

Ochocinco gushed about Belichick by saying, “It became a relationship beyond just a football player and a coach. He became a friend of mine. He has a lot of respect for me in my game and I have a lot of respect for him in everything he’s done as a coach.”

Article LinkWe have known for sometime about their mutual respect, and have heard Ocho at other times hint about possibly playing for the Pats.

The question is: how interested is BB in really having Ochocinco on the Pats? And if so, how much will the Pats have to give up for him? How much is too much for a WR of his caliber? His contract is @ $6 mill for 2011, and he is a FA in 2012, assuming he does finish out his contract.

 

[eakfootball]

What i want from the pats draft.

Pick 17: Julio Jones or Jon Baldwin WRs Alabama and Pitt

This would give them a great WR core. Baldwin and Branch with Welker in the slot. Then Tate, Edleman and Price as situational Wide outs.

Pick 28: Cam Jordan DE Cal

They despretly need help at DE.

Pick 33: Mikel Leshoure RB Illinois

He is maybe the best RB in the draft, and would be a steal at 33. This would give them a amazing 3 headed monster at RB.

Pick 60: Stefan Wisniewski G Penn St.

Mankins may be gone at the end of the year and if he is not, they could use an upgrade over Dan Connelly. Plus Koppen is getting older, and Wisniewski could be the long term solution at Center.

Pick 74: Mark Herzlich OLB BC

Seems like a patriot pick, and they could use another OLB.

Pick 92: Jimmy Smith CB Colorodo

Another corner is needed. Even if Bodden recovers well they will still be thin after him, McCourty, and Butler.

 

[eakfootball]

9 Picks: 1. 1/17 2. 1/27 3. 2/05 4. 2/27 5. 3/10 6. 3/27 7. 4/278. 5/279. 6/27If hes there, id like them to reach for Ingram, BJGE/Woody/Ingram would be a great backfield.A pass rush for the love of god.Refill the O-Line.They should reach for a stud WR.

Its the 28th pick not the 27th

 

[Balco]

What i want from the pats draft.Pick 17: Julio Jones or Jon Baldwin WRs Alabama and PittThis would give them a great WR core. Baldwin and Branch with Welker in the slot. Then Tate, Edleman and Price as situational Wide outs.Pick 28: Cam Jordan DE CalThey despretly need help at DE.Pick 33: Mikel Leshoure RB IllinoisHe is maybe the best RB in the draft, and would be a steal at 33. This would give them a amazing 3 headed monster at RB.Pick 60: Stefan Wisniewski G Penn St.Mankins may be gone at the end of the year and if he is not, they could use an upgrade over Dan Connelly. Plus Koppen is getting older, and Wisniewski could be the long term solution at Center.Pick 74: Mark Herzlich OLB BCSeems like a patriot pick, and they could use another OLB.Pick 92: Jimmy Smith CB ColorodoAnother corner is needed. Even if Bodden recovers well they will still be thin after him, McCourty, and Butler.

I don't see any of those picks save for Cam Jordan that make the Pats significantly improved. I like WIsniewski as a center, though.There absolute # 1 priority should be revamping that front seven. They need 2 DE's and a NT to give Wilfork much needed rest. Then they need a 3=4 OLB that can get after the passer. If they took those 4 positions with their 1st 4 picks (assuming the players they pick aren't reaches), they will have done a great job.Offense wins games, but defense wins championships. The Pats have enough O to win a Super Bowl. They do not have the defense, however. On that front 7 I like Mayo and Wilfork. That is about it. Jermaine Cunningham intrigues me, and I was never high on Brandon Spikes, thought he was one of the most overrated players in the nation at Florida. For such a dirty player, he sure hated to take on blockers to maintain his gap responsibility.

 

[12punch]

what about the O-line?

 

[Boston]

What i want from the pats draft.Pick 17: Julio Jones or Jon Baldwin WRs Alabama and PittThis would give them a great WR core. Baldwin and Branch with Welker in the slot. Then Tate, Edleman and Price as situational Wide outs.Pick 28: Cam Jordan DE CalThey despretly need help at DE.Pick 33: Mikel Leshoure RB IllinoisHe is maybe the best RB in the draft, and would be a steal at 33. This would give them a amazing 3 headed monster at RB.Pick 60: Stefan Wisniewski G Penn St.Mankins may be gone at the end of the year and if he is not, they could use an upgrade over Dan Connelly. Plus Koppen is getting older, and Wisniewski could be the long term solution at Center.Pick 74: Mark Herzlich OLB BCSeems like a patriot pick, and they could use another OLB.Pick 92: Jimmy Smith CB ColorodoAnother corner is needed. Even if Bodden recovers well they will still be thin after him, McCourty, and Butler.

I don't see any of those picks save for Cam Jordan that make the Pats significantly improved. I like WIsniewski as a center, though.There absolute # 1 priority should be revamping that front seven. They need 2 DE's and a NT to give Wilfork much needed rest. Then they need a 3=4 OLB that can get after the passer. If they took those 4 positions with their 1st 4 picks (assuming the players they pick aren't reaches), they will have done a great job.Offense wins games, but defense wins championships. The Pats have enough O to win a Super Bowl. They do not have the defense, however. On that front 7 I like Mayo and Wilfork. That is about it. Jermaine Cunningham intrigues me, and I was never high on Brandon Spikes, thought he was one of the most overrated players in the nation at Florida. For such a dirty player, he sure hated to take on blockers to maintain his gap responsibility.

They actually have some decent pieces up-front in Pryor, Deaderick, Brace and Wright (if he re-signs and comes back from his concussion) as well as Ty Warren who will return. That being said I would like to see them add a stud up-front so those other players are in more suitable roles. That's the big issue up-front...they are currently asking guys to be a little more than they are.Overall the biggest problem with their front seven is the utter lack of playmakers...Mayo's a player but not a playmaker and Vince is more of a run-stuffing space-eater...this team badly needs some bad-### defenders who get after the QB as well as having the ability to make some bone-crushing hits. Add some guys like that and it will only make players like Cunnigham and Ninkovich that much more effective.