Ron_Mexico
I Love Doggies
Pass protection for Brady was horrible on Sunday, absolutely abysmal.The offensive completely collapses a multitude of times.
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New England Patriots OFFICIAL Offseason Thread (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter captain_amazing
- Start date
captain_amazing
Footballguy
I think that's a little extreme - there were plenty of times Brady had all day to throw the ball, but the Jet's secondary gave him no targets. I don't think the O-Line played their best game, but the game was really lost because no WR's could get open, and the offensive coordinator, or someone else, could not make the correct adjustments to take advantage of the looks the Jet's D were giving them.I do think the O-Line will need some additions, especially if Mankins cannot be retained. If Mankins signs during the offseason with the Pats, RT and RG will be the only two that need to be filled (assuming Stephen Neal retires and Matt Light is not offered a new contract with Sebastian Volmer moving to LT).
Neil Beaufort Zod
Footballguy
What an embarrassment of riches that team has draft-wise. Trade some picks for established impact veterans and try to get by on your full complement of picks.
The Jets put a lot of pressure on Brady but no reason to overreact to the last game. Brady had pretty good protection this year iirc.
The Jets put a lot of pressure on Brady but no reason to overreact to the last game. Brady had pretty good protection this year iirc.
The Jets hardly played in their base 3-4 defense. They had everyone in coverage. They even dropped defensive lineman to chip away at anyone to throw off Brady's timing. They basically dared NE to run the ball. And even when they decided to run it was like BJGE wasn't getting much.I know they wont do it, but a real home run threat back there in the backfield would help. BJGE and Woody are "nice" but I don't think either scare the bejesus out of the Jets. Whether it's via trade or in the draft, I think they need to get more of a big time threat back there.KY
12punch
Footballguy
It's got nothing to do with that one game --- expiration date is comin' up on the line.
Boston
Footballguy
The O-line has been a little odd over the past few years...overall they have been real good but they will have some games where they just look awful (like Sunday)...I do think it's an area that will get beefed up this offseason (Neal's injuries may make him a goner and Light isn't getting any younger)...if Mankins leaves than it definitely becomes a primary issue...all that being said I don't think anything comes remotely close to addressing the pass rush...that is far and away their biggest weakness and until it gets addressed their D will never be more than ok and not championship-caliber...
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munchkin
Footballguy
There is audio over at WEEI that includes a 20+ minute discussion with Jaws and what he saw when he broke down the film. Worth listening to if the interest is there. Brady had open receivers at times but he didn't see them even when the real rush wasn't there because he was distracted by what was going on around him. After a few hits he was jittery and seeing "ghosts" as Jaws put it; feeling pressure that wasn't there.
J Andersson
Footballguy
To me this draft is an opportunity to really acquire some talent as far as 5-technique DE's are concerned.
There are a number of top prospects that could fit the bill and at this point I would like us to look closely at the possibility of adding two such players with our three first picks.
All of Marcel Dareus (most likely gone when we pick) Cameron Jordan, J.J. Watt, Cameron Heyward and Adrian Clayborn are interesting prospects. I believe one of Jordan or Watt should be available at 1.17 and possibly Heyward and Clayborn are there at 2.01.
If we can get a real push from our defensive line (I really like the thought of Watt, Wilfork, Heyward, Warren as part of the rotation for next year). I think we will find it a lot easier to get a pass rush from the outside with that push from our front 3. I think it would be wiser to pass on a pass-rusher later on if we're not absolutely convinced we've found a difference maker in either Robert Quinn, Von Miller or Akeem Ayers.
To summarize, my ideal draft as of now would be:
1.17 - J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin
1.28 - Cameron heyward, DE, Ohio State
2.01 - Stephen Wisniewski, C/OG, Penn State
There are a number of top prospects that could fit the bill and at this point I would like us to look closely at the possibility of adding two such players with our three first picks.
All of Marcel Dareus (most likely gone when we pick) Cameron Jordan, J.J. Watt, Cameron Heyward and Adrian Clayborn are interesting prospects. I believe one of Jordan or Watt should be available at 1.17 and possibly Heyward and Clayborn are there at 2.01.
If we can get a real push from our defensive line (I really like the thought of Watt, Wilfork, Heyward, Warren as part of the rotation for next year). I think we will find it a lot easier to get a pass rush from the outside with that push from our front 3. I think it would be wiser to pass on a pass-rusher later on if we're not absolutely convinced we've found a difference maker in either Robert Quinn, Von Miller or Akeem Ayers.
To summarize, my ideal draft as of now would be:
1.17 - J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin
1.28 - Cameron heyward, DE, Ohio State
2.01 - Stephen Wisniewski, C/OG, Penn State
munchkin
Footballguy
It would be nice to get one of Aldon Smith or Ryan Kerrigan.
eakfootball
Footballguy
They dont need 2 DEs. Warren will be coming back. Put him with Wright, Deadrick, Gerard Warren, and Brace, they only need to take one.
captain_amazing
Footballguy
I worked up a list of all of the players that do not appear as if they will be back in a Pats uniform next season. I ranked them as highly probable to not return, moderately probable to not return, and a low probability of not returning. Let me know what you think.
High Probability (99.99%-80%)
Matt Light (LT) – FA (2011)
Light has been a great LT during his tenure in NE, protecting Brady from a slew of good to elite pass rushers. However, I do not think he will be resigned, given his age (32) and how well Sebastian Volmer seemed to play the LT position over a year ago (while Light was injured).
Shayne Graham (K) – FA (2011)
While Graham filled in adequately for Gostowski following his season-ending injury, it was clear to the Patriots how valuable their all-pro kicker really is. Graham did not exhibit the strength nor hang time in kickoffs, which the Patriot’s special teams struggled with.
Sammy Morris (RB) – FA (2011)
Never quite having the impact most thought he would on the team, Morris will most likely not be retained for his FB and short yardage duties with the team, especially given his age at RB (33).
Fred Taylor (RB) – FA (2011)
Also not having quite the impact most thought he would with the Patriots, and after admitting that he thought he was going to have to hang the pads up after the turf toe that kept him out the majority of the season, Fred Taylor is sure to retire. He does not have the durability that could carry him through most of a season, which is to be expected after his HoF 12 year NFL career.
Stephen Neal (RG) – Possible Retirement
Before the beginning of last season, Neal toyed around with the idea of retiring, to the point where many where expecting it. But he did not retire, and played the season. After enduring some injuries that kept him out of several games, I think he will reconsider retirement this offseason, and probably take it. At 34, why not?
Medium Probability (80%-50%)
Logan Mankins (RG) - Contract Dispute
Although the publicity of the contract dispute between Mankins and the team, most notably Robert Kraft, was quite heated during the season, I think his absence at the beginning of the season, and then presence later on, will push the team to sign him. I don’t think he will get what he was originally asking for, but I do think the Pats will up the ante.
Low Probability (50% or less)
Brandon Merriweather (S) – Subpar Performance
Even though Merriweather was awarded his second consecutive Pro Bowl, every Patriots fan knows of his flaws. He is the new “Lawrence Maroney,” in that he has become the scapegoat for fans. While I do not think he has played as bad as some may claim, his performance is clearly not worthy of a Pro Bowl, nor is it adequate for the first round pick it took to get him. I think his 2 consecutive Pro Bowl makes his trade value that much better for some naive coach or GM to throw a second rounder for him (which is much more than he’s worth).
Kevin Faulk (RB) – FA (2011)
Another great veteran the Pats have been lucky to have over the years. Unless he can prove to Bill that he can still go out there and compete at the same level he did two years ago, or that he is worth it for the locker room presence, I think retirement might be in the future for Faulk.
Other 2011 FA’s (as of March 1st)
Brandon McGowan (S)
Quinn Ojinnaka (OT)
Jarrod Page (S)
Gerard Warren (DL)
Restricted 2011 FA’s
BenJarvus Green-Ellis (RB)
Josh Barrert (S)
High Probability (99.99%-80%)
Matt Light (LT) – FA (2011)
Light has been a great LT during his tenure in NE, protecting Brady from a slew of good to elite pass rushers. However, I do not think he will be resigned, given his age (32) and how well Sebastian Volmer seemed to play the LT position over a year ago (while Light was injured).
Shayne Graham (K) – FA (2011)
While Graham filled in adequately for Gostowski following his season-ending injury, it was clear to the Patriots how valuable their all-pro kicker really is. Graham did not exhibit the strength nor hang time in kickoffs, which the Patriot’s special teams struggled with.
Sammy Morris (RB) – FA (2011)
Never quite having the impact most thought he would on the team, Morris will most likely not be retained for his FB and short yardage duties with the team, especially given his age at RB (33).
Fred Taylor (RB) – FA (2011)
Also not having quite the impact most thought he would with the Patriots, and after admitting that he thought he was going to have to hang the pads up after the turf toe that kept him out the majority of the season, Fred Taylor is sure to retire. He does not have the durability that could carry him through most of a season, which is to be expected after his HoF 12 year NFL career.
Stephen Neal (RG) – Possible Retirement
Before the beginning of last season, Neal toyed around with the idea of retiring, to the point where many where expecting it. But he did not retire, and played the season. After enduring some injuries that kept him out of several games, I think he will reconsider retirement this offseason, and probably take it. At 34, why not?
Medium Probability (80%-50%)
Logan Mankins (RG) - Contract Dispute
Although the publicity of the contract dispute between Mankins and the team, most notably Robert Kraft, was quite heated during the season, I think his absence at the beginning of the season, and then presence later on, will push the team to sign him. I don’t think he will get what he was originally asking for, but I do think the Pats will up the ante.
Low Probability (50% or less)
Brandon Merriweather (S) – Subpar Performance
Even though Merriweather was awarded his second consecutive Pro Bowl, every Patriots fan knows of his flaws. He is the new “Lawrence Maroney,” in that he has become the scapegoat for fans. While I do not think he has played as bad as some may claim, his performance is clearly not worthy of a Pro Bowl, nor is it adequate for the first round pick it took to get him. I think his 2 consecutive Pro Bowl makes his trade value that much better for some naive coach or GM to throw a second rounder for him (which is much more than he’s worth).
Kevin Faulk (RB) – FA (2011)
Another great veteran the Pats have been lucky to have over the years. Unless he can prove to Bill that he can still go out there and compete at the same level he did two years ago, or that he is worth it for the locker room presence, I think retirement might be in the future for Faulk.
Other 2011 FA’s (as of March 1st)
Brandon McGowan (S)
Quinn Ojinnaka (OT)
Jarrod Page (S)
Gerard Warren (DL)
Restricted 2011 FA’s
BenJarvus Green-Ellis (RB)
Josh Barrert (S)
Workhorse
Footballguy
Adebisi
Footballguy
Although I am not a big fan of Meriweather's, that seems like an overly harsh criticism. He may be overrated, but he's still a far better player than Maroney ever was.I can't imagine Faulk being back after the team signed Woodhead to an extension, but anything's possible. Faulk is better in pass protection by a mile, but Woodhead is probably the better player by any other measure at this point in their respective careers.
David Yudkin
Footballguy
I can't see the Pats having Neal, Light, and Mankins all leave. They would need to retrofit most of their OL all at once.
I also see no reason why BJGE won't be back. He had a great season and will cost peanuts. Where can you get a 1000 yard/10 TD guy for a few hundred grand?
I also see no reason why BJGE won't be back. He had a great season and will cost peanuts. Where can you get a 1000 yard/10 TD guy for a few hundred grand?
Boston
Footballguy
Agreed...I see Neal as a goner...unless someone else really steps up with big money I think Light will be back for another year or two, this team doesn't have many veteran leaders and he's one one them...Mankins is still the question mark as his situation is still a mystery...one thing is for sure, if they lose Mankins it creates a huge hole this off-season...as for Benny I think it's a lock he'll be back...he's solid, they like him and I don't picture another team giving him a contract the Pats won't match as well as giving up a draft pick (if they would have to...not sure as he was undrafted)...
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12punch
Footballguy
I believe Watt's agent is Tom Condon, and I agree with that other guy that we don't need 2 DE drafted that high.
captain_amazing
Footballguy
Sorry, you are right. What I meant by comparing him to Maroney is that he has become the scapegoat that Maroney was his last few years here with the fans. I certainly don't think Merriweather is as bad of a player as Maroney, but I think the comparison is there, considering they were both first rounders, both of have not played up to expectations, and both were scapegoats for Pats fans. I just see the second consecutive Pro Bowl elevating his trade value to a point that certainly exceeds his actual value, and creating the possibility he might be traded this offseason. Basically, I wouldn't be surprised if he stayed, and wouldn't be surprised if he was traded.I think if Faulk can prove he still has some play-making ability left in him, and that he can provide something more intangible (i.e. veteran leadership) then I think they will retain him for a 1 year deal.
Agreed. I don't think Neal, Light, and Mankins will all leave, but It think they all have a good individual chance of not being back in uniform next year. I see Neal as the most likely, Light next, then Mankins. I think the most likely scenario is that Mankins resigns, Neal retires, and Light leaves in FA. Also, I didn't say BJGE wouldn't be back - I was simply noting that he was a RFA in 2011. I certainly think he will be back. Too bad he wouldn't actually cost "peanuts."
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Spike
Footballguy
I think the problem is at RB.Now hear me out before you ridicule me...
When the Pats were winning Super Bowls, they had a threat at RB. For these teams whose defensive lines are sufficiently good to do essentially no blitzing (and the Jets did it very infrequently) the Pats don't seem to be able to get it done offensively. The Giants in the 2007 Super Bowl. The Ravens in the 2009 playoffs. The Jets in the 2010 playoffs.
If there is a real threat at RB, I really don't think a team can simply decide to blanket downfield with (mostly) DBs.
Yes, I realize the names on defense aren't there anymore for the Pats but I feel a legitimate threat at RB is what is needed.
Spike
Footballguy
Because while they put up gross numbers, they don't strike fear into anyone. I would doubt the defensive gameplans have "stop the Pats run game" as a high priority.
David Yudkin
Footballguy
The Patriots won a SB with Antowain Smith in 2001. They won another with Smith and Kevin Faulk combining for a 3.5 YPC average on 360 carries in 2003. Neither one of those guys was a threat and the Pats essentially were not very productive running the ball in their first two SB years.Here were the team ypc from the past 10 seasons:
2001 3.8
2002 3.8
2003 3.4
2004 4.1
2005 3.4
2006 3.9
2007 4.1
2008 4.4
2009 4.1
2010 4.3
Say what you want about the hodge podge of backs that they've had in a RBBC over the past few years, but they have been collectively far more productive than the SB winning teams.
I don't think the Pats need to go out and burn a high pick on a RB and they would be fine with BJGE and Woodhead if they wanted to (although they will need depth as I don't see Taylor, Morris, or Faulk back). They will probably take a back somewhere with all their picks or at the least sign a couple of free agents, but I don't see the need to go hog wild at the RB spot.
A case certainly could be made that the retreads and undrafted players they signed were more productive than Maroney, the last guy they burned an early pick on a RB.
I would think they would look to upgrade at DE, OL, OLB, and even secondary on defense. If there is a top rated WR available I would say that might be a bigger need than RB, but as I see it the Pats could live with the RB and WR they have if they had to.
Boston
Footballguy
I do think that is a legit issue...the Pats haven't had a big-time threat at RB since Dillon's big year...they have had solid #'s but nothing back there that defenses really have to worry about too much...I really like both Benny and Woody and feel they are solid pieces of this offense but a RB that puts some fear in a defense would be a welcome addition...the failure of the Maroney pick still haunts this team...imagine if they had taken MJD insttead...ouch...
Spike
Footballguy
Boston
Footballguy
Throw in Greg Jennings instead of Chad Jackson as well...boy, did the Pats whiff that year...
David Yudkin
Footballguy
I'm not saying that a power back wouldn't help, but they have had one year in 11 seasons under BB with an elite season from a RB.As I mentioned in one of these threads, the Pats got 2019 yards from scrimmage and 19 total TD from Woodhead and Green Ellis for a grand total of $1 million this year.If the the right back presents himself in the draft, I guess taking him wouldn't be the worst thing in the world, but you can't beat what they got this year for the cost.I'd rather have BJGE and Woodhead with Mankins than a first round rookie RB and no Mankins.
Boston
Footballguy
Why would you lose Mankins if you took a RB in the first...regardless of the position they draft it's the same money...I'm not saying you have to use a #1 or get a big money free-agent (not saying you can't as well)...it also doesn't have to be a power-back...yet, I do agree that if they can obtain a RB that a defense fears it would really help loosen things up (and make Benny and Woodhead that much more effective)...in the last three playoff games a defense has done a very good job against Brady and the Pats passing game...one of the reasons I believe this has happened was because they were able to focus on that area because they did not fear the rushing game...throw a RB in the mix that can make a D pay for that type of game-plan and it would add another dimension to their offense...
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eakfootball
Footballguy
Addai would have been good too
captain_amazing
Footballguy
I agree that a RB should not be a top priority for the Pats - but if Bill felt the need to acquire a RB that "strikes fear into defenses," I would MUCH MUCH MUCH prefer he look to FA or to make a trade somewhere. I would not want to use a top pick (rounds 1-3) looking for that type of RB, especially with the Maroney not to far gone in memory. I would rather invest those picks in OLB, DE, WR, OL, and maybe a safety.But I bet the first round pick is used for a DB.
captain_amazing
Footballguy
Twitter has been afoot about Bill wanting to trade Wes Welker this offseason.... no one notable saying it as far as I know right now.
Boston
Footballguy
Can't see how that helps the team at all...if you look at their WR corps he's by far their most reliable option...I like Branch but he's a guy you always have to be concerned with health-wise...after that you have Edelman who really had a down year, Tate who hasn't shown he's ready for the big time yet and Price who's still an unknown quantity...Welker fits the Pats O perfectly and with next year being his second back from his injury he should have a little more zip back...I know his contract is up next year but I really believe dealing Welker would be a huge mistake both on the field and off because he's very popular and that would be a big PR hit (not that BB cares about that)...
fruity pebbles
Footballguy
I havent heard anyone here in Boston mentioning that. Have read a few fans on the pats forums wanting to trade welker for calvin johnson
captain_amazing
Footballguy
By that, you mean he is on the last year of his contract, correct? I can't imagine Welker is going to want to play out his contract, and probably is not going to tak a "home discount" contract, so I could see some problems developing this offseason that may result in holdouts from camp and such.
:X indeed. Yea, I haven't heard it anywhere else other than Twitter, so it could be just some jag speculation.I havent heard anyone here in Boston mentioning that. Have read a few fans on the pats forums wanting to trade welker for calvin johnson
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fruity pebbles
Footballguy
It stems from one source, incarceratedbob, who is a jets fan. claims to have inside info into the Pats organization. Has gotten like one rumor right out of a 100. Actually a pretty easy lazy rumor to create. Welker in the last year of his contract and benched in the last game of the season.By that, you mean he is on the last year of his contract, correct? I can't imagine Welker is going to want to play out his contract, and probably is not going to tak a "home discount" contract, so I could see some problems developing this offseason that may result in holdouts from camp and such.I havent heard anyone here in Boston mentioning that. Have read a few fans on the pats forums wanting to trade welker for calvin johnsonindeed. Yea, I haven't heard it anywhere else other than Twitter, so it could be just some jag speculation.
captain_amazing
Footballguy
Thanks
. I wasn't sure of the exact source. Yes, it is a lazy rumor to create .
captain_amazing
Footballguy
captain_amazing
Footballguy
Is there any benefit for a team or coach to have their coaching staff take coaching duties for the pro bowl?
David Yudkin
Footballguy
That's how the Pats ended up with Adelius Thomas, which at the time was considered quite a coup (but turned out to be one of the worst signings in Patriots history).
captain_amazing
Footballguy
Did not know that - thanks!
Boston
Footballguy
http://bostonherald.com/sports/football/pa...s_seen_lacking/
Just a random draft article about RBs with one little note...says there is rumblings about the Pats trading for Felix Jones or signing Pierre Thomas...no source, no quotes just a quick blurb but it does make for interesting speculation for this time of year...
Just a random draft article about RBs with one little note...says there is rumblings about the Pats trading for Felix Jones or signing Pierre Thomas...no source, no quotes just a quick blurb but it does make for interesting speculation for this time of year...
David Yudkin
Footballguy
Given that they almost traded for Thomas last year, that part I think should be considered believable.
Boston
Footballguy
He would be a nice fit with Benny and Woodhead...all three would give you something different...Have you heard anything about Faulk?
David Yudkin
Footballguy
Other than he wants to play and the Pats may not want him given that they have Woodhead, no.
Boston
Footballguy
I do see Woodhead getting that role although it will be odd not having Faulk around if they part ways...hopefully he can be as clutch as Faulk...I don't see Morris or Taylor back...if Faulk goes that means there could be three new RBs next year...they need at least one of them to have the ability to put some fear in an opposing D...a guy who can take a screen-pass and go 50 yards...
David Yudkin
Footballguy
Woodhead had a 50 yard catch and run this year against the Jets.I would not assume that they automatically would carry 5 RBs. IIRC, that's a higher number than most teams carry on their active roster.If I had to guess, they draft someone and sign an older, cheap free agent in the mold of Taylor, Morris, or Jordan.I would rule out Faulk just yet, but I think he will have to earn a spot and show that he has the same elusiveness and quickness. If he is not where he was, I think he calls it a day.
Road Warriors
Footballguy
I'll be sad to see Faulk hang em up. Few have done as much with a fairly limited skillset for as long as Faulk has. Its been a pleasure watching him play. As for new RBs, if PT could show any semblance of staying healthy, I think he'd be a great fit. I still think the focus needs to be more on the OL than the skill players for this team. Getting a bit old up front, and thats where this offense all starts
munchkin
Footballguy
There were some rumblings as the season wore down that the Saints weren't real happy with Thomas's diligence (?) in his road to recovery from his injuries. He really seems to do a great job with the ball in his hands in both the run and passing game; I would hate to see a Fred Taylor redux next year. I would hope the team would be real careful about going down that road again. I know there is a big age difference but Thomas's recent injury history makes me nervous.
AngryPatriot
Footballguy
They have some pressing needs like a pass rusher or 2 but I don't think they're too far off. Signing Mankins is a big deal, possibly replacing Matt light... Bodden should return.
There's talk about bringing Moss back but I dream of Larry Fitzgerald in a Pats uni
Unfortunately I don't think they can trade picks for a player at this point unless there's a new CBA.
There's talk about bringing Moss back but I dream of Larry Fitzgerald in a Pats uni
Unfortunately I don't think they can trade picks for a player at this point unless there's a new CBA.
David Yudkin
Footballguy
No team can trade a player at this point. They may or may not be able to franchise Mankins, but I would guess he would sit out half the season again.I think a Moss return is unlikely. I also don't see them trading a couple of very high picks for Fitzgerald and then have to pay him $50-$60 million on top of it.I also don't see Chad Jackson coming to town no matter how much he says he wants to play in NE. Too much of a distraction. And his numbers have generally been declining. I don't see Stallworth coming back either.I think the Pats will give Tate and Price a shot to do more and focus in on other positions besides WR unless they can somehow find either a game changer in the draft or a veteran that can add something to the mix that they don't already have.They have some pressing needs like a pass rusher or 2 but I don't think they're too far off. Signing Mankins is a big deal, possibly replacing Matt light... Bodden should return.There's talk about bringing Moss back but I dream of Larry Fitzgerald in a Pats uniUnfortunately I don't think they can trade picks for a player at this point unless there's a new CBA.
munchkin
Footballguy
The passing game was pretty darn effective this past season. Ultimately a lack of Pro experience with players such as Tate, Hernandez and Gronkowski may have hurt the team in the playoffs as much as anything else. Perhaps Brady wasn't going to take any chances down field after his early costly interception and he was looking to make the perfect throw. The defense has to get more impact players. Perhaps Brace, Deaderick and Love will evolve into solid players but this team really suffered along the D-Line and OLB. The Senior Bowl has some nice D-Line and O-Line prospects and the Patriots have the picks to move around and pick three or four players who could really help next year.David Yudkin said:No team can trade a player at this point. They may or may not be able to franchise Mankins, but I would guess he would sit out half the season again.I think a Moss return is unlikely. I also don't see them trading a couple of very high picks for Fitzgerald and then have to pay him $50-$60 million on top of it.I also don't see Chad Jackson coming to town no matter how much he says he wants to play in NE. Too much of a distraction. And his numbers have generally been declining. I don't see Stallworth coming back either.I think the Pats will give Tate and Price a shot to do more and focus in on other positions besides WR unless they can somehow find either a game changer in the draft or a veteran that can add something to the mix that they don't already have.AngryPatriot said:They have some pressing needs like a pass rusher or 2 but I don't think they're too far off. Signing Mankins is a big deal, possibly replacing Matt light... Bodden should return.There's talk about bringing Moss back but I dream of Larry Fitzgerald in a Pats uniUnfortunately I don't think they can trade picks for a player at this point unless there's a new CBA.
captain_amazing
Footballguy
I'm curious what others think - with NE's first 3 picks, what would the difference be in the Pat's strategy and who the Pats potentially draft with each of the following scenarios:
1. There is no significant rookie-wage scale in the new CBA for the upcoming draft, and everything remains essentially the same as previous years, or;
2. There is a significant rookie-wage scale in the new CBA for the upcoming draft, with top 5, top 10, and 1st rounders significantly cheaper to sign than if there was no significant wage scale.
Sorry if I am misinformed or assuming something - I cannot remember if it is even possible for there to be a rookie-wage scale before this year's draft. But if not, let's look at these scenarios for 2012's draft. I'm wondering, specifically, if the Pats and BB would alter their draft strategy, and if so, to what extent, taking into account the draft strategies they have been employing for the past several years.
Also, if there is other scenarios I'm missing, add them!
1. There is no significant rookie-wage scale in the new CBA for the upcoming draft, and everything remains essentially the same as previous years, or;
2. There is a significant rookie-wage scale in the new CBA for the upcoming draft, with top 5, top 10, and 1st rounders significantly cheaper to sign than if there was no significant wage scale.
Sorry if I am misinformed or assuming something - I cannot remember if it is even possible for there to be a rookie-wage scale before this year's draft. But if not, let's look at these scenarios for 2012's draft. I'm wondering, specifically, if the Pats and BB would alter their draft strategy, and if so, to what extent, taking into account the draft strategies they have been employing for the past several years.
Also, if there is other scenarios I'm missing, add them!
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