New England Patriots OFFICIAL Offseason Thread (1 Viewer)

[David Yudkin]

It is not only possible, and maybe even a decent chance, for there to be a rookie wage scale for this year's crop of rookies. It could even be retroactive in that it gets voted into effect after the draft has already been completed. THe issue, of course, will be that no one knows what the rules will be come draft weekend.

 

[Adebisi]

It is not only possible, and maybe even a decent chance, for there to be a rookie wage scale for this year's crop of rookies. It could even be retroactive in that it gets voted into effect after the draft has already been completed. THe issue, of course, will be that no one knows what the rules will be come draft weekend.

I have to think that there is a pretty good chance of this happening. The current members of the union would be unaffected, and if there's a salary cap back in place, the current players would see a bigger piece of that pie if they could restrict how much of it the rookies get.

 

[captain_amazing]

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. - The New England Patriots have announced new position responsibilities for four members on the current coaching staff. On offense, Bill O'Brien has been named the offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach. On defense there were three positional changes. Matt Patricia will now coach the Patriots' safeties, Patrick Graham will serve as linebackers coach and Brian Flores was named defensive assistant on Head Coach Bill Belichick's staff. Corwin Brown, who shared responsibilities with Josh Boyer as a defensive backs coach in 2010, will not return to the team in 2011.

Read more at: http://www.patriots.com/news/index.cfm?ac=...81&cp"</a>"]HereInteresting that Matt Patricia gets moved to safeties and not defensive assistant. Congrats for Bill O'Brien though - as much as he has been criticized (including me) last year and this past playoff game, I do think he deserves it for how the offense was able to transition seemingly unaffected post-Moss.

 

[munchkin]

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. - The New England Patriots have announced new position responsibilities for four members on the current coaching staff. On offense, Bill O'Brien has been named the offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach. On defense there were three positional changes. Matt Patricia will now coach the Patriots' safeties, Patrick Graham will serve as linebackers coach and Brian Flores was named defensive assistant on Head Coach Bill Belichick's staff. Corwin Brown, who shared responsibilities with Josh Boyer as a defensive backs coach in 2010, will not return to the team in 2011.

Read more at: http://www.patriots.com/news/index.cfm?ac=...81&cp"</a>"]HereInteresting that Matt Patricia gets moved to safeties and not defensive assistant. Congrats for Bill O'Brien though - as much as he has been criticized (including me) last year and this past playoff game, I do think he deserves it for how the offense was able to transition seemingly unaffected post-Moss.

Brady was more at fault than O'Brien against the Jets. If the guy with the ball in his hand every play isn't making good reads the offense is doomed to fail. O'Brien has really developed as a play caller. There was a great cadence to most of the games post Cleveland. I am hopeful for Hoyer's development; O'Brien seems to have done a good job there as well. He looks more confident than Cassel did early in his tenure as a Patriot. Of course Hoyer has more game experience to work with (from college).

 

[Faust]

What now for Patriots after another one-and-done playoff?

By Vic Carucci NFL.com

Senior Columnist

Published: Jan. 17, 2011

The ending was abrupt, blindsiding the New England Patriots like a free-running blitzer.

It wasn't just that, at 14-2, they had forged the best record in the NFL. It was that they had roared to an 8-0 finish during which they scored no fewer than 31 points in a game.

Along the way, Tom Brady established himself as the clear choice for league MVP. New stars -- with names like Hernandez, Gronkowski and McCourty -- were shining brightly. Patriots fans, many of whom had initially hoped to see promise from a team that looked to be in somewhat of a transition, began to fully expect a run to a fourth Super Bowl victory.

Then, the New York Jets came to town. And when the AFC divisional playoff game was over, the Patriots were left reeling by a 28-21 loss that was more decisive than the margin indicates. Just ask Brady, who was sacked five times by a relentless Jets pass rush.

"It's like you're on the treadmill, running at 10 miles an hour, and then someone just hits the stop button," he said.

Here's a look at some of the key issues the Patriots face after their second consecutive one-and-done playoff appearance and third postseason loss since the 2007 campaign:

1. How do Pats improve pass rush?

The Patriots desperately need a pass rusher, likely in the form of an outside linebacker for their 3-4 defense. Mark Sanchez was merely the latest opposing quarterback to consistently have too much time to throw.

The Pats should be able to find at least one pass rusher with their two first-round draft picks -- No. 17, which they acquired from the Oakland Raiders in 2009 for defensive lineman Richard Seymour, and their original No. 28. A player who might be a good fit is Iowa defensive end Adrian Clayborn, whose size is less than ideal for him to play the same position in the NFL but might be just right for a switch to outside linebacker.

The uncertain labor climate could prevent the Patriots from trying to address that or any other hole in free agency, because a potential lockout would suspend all player movement. But it hasn't been Bill Belichick's style to go into the open market too heavily, although they will have some extra trade capital, thanks to the third-round choice they received from Minnesota earlier in the season for wide receiver Randy Moss.

2. What about the secondary?

The Patriots ranked 30th in the NFL against the pass, and they were reminded by the Jets that they don't have enough quality among their defensive backs to hold up against dynamic playmakers such as Jets receivers Santonio Holmes and Braylon Edwards.

Devin McCourty had a strong rookie year, but a bigger and more physical cornerback could help. The Pats might be wise to take a page from the Jets' defensive model and add a defensive back or two that can manhandle opposing receivers within five yards of the line of scrimmage to disrupt the timing of their routes and/or better separate them from the ball.

3. Should Belichick shed offensive coordinator hat?

Belichick's coaching effort against the Jets was stunningly bad. Rex Ryan's defense was at least one step ahead the entire the game. Neither Belichick nor Brady could figure out the Jets' mixture of coverages, with various disguises thrown in to make the quarterback think he was seeing something other than what would actually be in place after the snap. Besides causing Brady to throw his first interception since October, the real problems with the Jets' unsolved coverage puzzle were the pressure and sacks resulting from his holding the ball too long.

In addition, there was a fake-punt call that failed and a refusal to pick up their offensive tempo in the fourth quarter.

It seems reasonable to at least ask, then, whether Belichick should not serve as his own offensive coordinator, on top of his duties of running the defense and the entire football operation. Yes, the Patriots' offense did perform exceptionally well in the regular season. But it seems that the last time New England won regularly in the postseason, Belichick had help from offensive coordinators such as Charlie Weis and Josh McDaniels. Given how the competition tends to ramp up for the playoffs, Belichick would be wise to delegate some responsibility and work more collaboratively as he once did.

4. What does the future hold for Mankins, Light and Taylor?

Guard Logan Mankins missed training camp and half of the season during a contract dispute. Although he and the Patriots never could come to terms on a long-term contract, he did finally accept a one-year deal the team had offered months earlier and Mankins had an immediate positive impact on the offense. Surprisingly, he even was selected to the Pro Bowl, based on less than a half-season's work. Now it would seem he has gained some leverage in his effort to get a long-term contract.

Veteran offensive tackle Matt Light is a free agent, and after the Jets game, he told reporters that he was unsure whether he would be back for an 11th season in New England.

Running back Fred Taylor, who turns 35 later this month, could be headed for retirement. He struggled to see action behind BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead.

5. Is Welker in any trouble?

It would be almost unimaginable to think of the Patriots even considering parting ways with wide receiver Wes Welker, and by no means should this be viewed as a suggestion that they should. But one has to think that he might spend at least a portion of his offseason in Belichick's doghouse in light of the fact that he was kept on the sidelines for the Patriots' first offensive series against the Jets, presumably for disciplinary reasons.

While Ryan and cornerback Antonio Cromartie did some trash talking in the media, Belichick had warned his team not to say anything in retaliation. He insisted, as always, that the Patriots take the high road. However, Welker apparently couldn't help himself, and during a news conference made nearly a dozen subtle "foot" references, which were seen as a direct jab at Ryan for his reported part in a foot-fetish controversy involving his wife.

Belichick refused to comment on why Welker didn't start, but the bottom line is that the Patriots' top receiver defied a direct order from his coach. The last top receiver believed to have challenged Belichick's authority was Moss.

 

[captain_amazing]

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. - The New England Patriots have announced new position responsibilities for four members on the current coaching staff. On offense, Bill O'Brien has been named the offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach. On defense there were three positional changes. Matt Patricia will now coach the Patriots' safeties, Patrick Graham will serve as linebackers coach and Brian Flores was named defensive assistant on Head Coach Bill Belichick's staff. Corwin Brown, who shared responsibilities with Josh Boyer as a defensive backs coach in 2010, will not return to the team in 2011.

Read more at: http://www.patriots.com/news/index.cfm?ac=...81&cp"</a>"]HereInteresting that Matt Patricia gets moved to safeties and not defensive assistant. Congrats for Bill O'Brien though - as much as he has been criticized (including me) last year and this past playoff game, I do think he deserves it for how the offense was able to transition seemingly unaffected post-Moss.

Brady was more at fault than O'Brien against the Jets. If the guy with the ball in his hand every play isn't making good reads the offense is doomed to fail. O'Brien has really developed as a play caller. There was a great cadence to most of the games post Cleveland. I am hopeful for Hoyer's development; O'Brien seems to have done a good job there as well. He looks more confident than Cassel did early in his tenure as a Patriot. Of course Hoyer has more game experience to work with (from college).

Agreed - minus that ~8 minute drive in the 4th quarter. I am also high on Hoyer, but I know many Pats fans are not. He shows much more confidence and poise in the pocket (from the limited action he's been in) than Cassel did at that stage, and seems to has good accuracy. One up he has on Brady is he is mobile.

 

[AngryPatriot]

I would also like to see how they address the WR position. It sure would be nice if ONE of these wr's they draft like Tate (or Price less so) becomes a top level #1.... and not go the way of the Chad Jacksons of the world. THEY DO NEED A BIG #1 TYPE OF RECEIVER! We need to look no further than the Jets game as proof- or just look around the league. Some teams throw 2 or 3 at ya. It sometimes seems like the Pats overvalue experience or fear inexperience, or maybe it's Brady, and hardly give these guys a chance to shine. No trust or too much fear. Or the Pats scouting of WR's is lacking for sure. My God- they rode Troy Brown till he couldn't run anymore. A Steve Johnson type player would look pretty good right about now. I was ticked when they passed on Dez Bryant although McCourty was a great pick- he probably could of been had with their next pick.... Anywho- I want to see some horses out there to play along with the Welkers and Woodheads. Quickness matters in this league for sure- but so does SIZE!

 

[David Yudkin]

I would also like to see how they address the WR position. It sure would be nice if ONE of these wr's they draft like Tate (or Price less so) becomes a top level #1.... and not go the way of the Chad Jacksons of the world. THEY DO NEED A BIG #1 TYPE OF RECEIVER! We need to look no further than the Jets game as proof- or just look around the league. Some teams throw 2 or 3 at ya. It sometimes seems like the Pats overvalue experience or fear inexperience, or maybe it's Brady, and hardly give these guys a chance to shine. No trust or too much fear. Or the Pats scouting of WR's is lacking for sure. My God- they rode Troy Brown till he couldn't run anymore. A Steve Johnson type player would look pretty good right about now. I was ticked when they passed on Dez Bryant although McCourty was a great pick- he probably could of been had with their next pick.... Anywho- I want to see some horses out there to play along with the Welkers and Woodheads. Quickness matters in this league for sure- but so does SIZE!

I doubt they do much at receiver in the draft. They recently took Tate and Price (and have Edelman still developing). I think there are a lot more areas of need or age issues than WR. If they add a receiver, I would guess it would be by trade or FA signing.As for McCourty, he had a first round grade by a bunch of draftnicks, so he was fair game for a lot of teams at that point. There were 15 picks until the next Pats pick (unless they traded down and I don't remember). In those picks, 5 other DBs were taken.

 

[AngryPatriot]

Still think they need to build more around Brady... how about DeAngelo Williams and Larry Fitzgerald??? lol

Mankins was given the franchise tag today, should make around 10 mil. Good move and hopefully they sign him long term.

 

[Jercules]

Pass rush pass rush pass rush.

BB tried to get Peppers last offseason, and by now it should be clear why. With Warren coming back, Wilfork, Spikes, Mayo, etc., we've got enough against the run, and a young secondary with Bodden returning should be fine so long as we can get some pressure on the passer.

It's not just the numbers against the pass, it's the fact that some truly lousy QBs have owned us over the years (even in 2007 - A.J. Feeley, Kyle Boller). This year, guys like Flacco, Sanchez, Flynn, etc. And God forbid we should be up by any less than four TDs on Peyton Manning in a second half.

The defense is great at keeping things in front of them and maintaining discipline, which is why they seem to excel against PA offenses, zone blocking schemes, and guys like Roethlisberger who thrive on chaos. But in the end, against decent pocket passers, the best they can do is force long drives and pray for a drop on 3rd down/bad decision/etc. How many times now have they failed in the crunch, even before 2007?

Everything else is a luxury. They absolutely need an elite pure pass rusher, and I think trading for one instead of these constant half-measures (e.g. Derrick Burgess), at this point, may be the way to go.

 

[captain_amazing]

Still think they need to build more around Brady... how about DeAngelo Williams and Larry Fitzgerald??? lolMankins was given the franchise tag today, should make around 10 mil. Good move and hopefully they sign him long term.

Let's just hope the tag is still relevant under the new CBA. If the Patriots cannot get Mankins to come down from what he wants and meet him somewhere reasonable, then I would bet he holds out like last year, especially if he can afford it.

 

[Boston]

Pass rush pass rush pass rush.BB tried to get Peppers last offseason, and by now it should be clear why. With Warren coming back, Wilfork, Spikes, Mayo, etc., we've got enough against the run, and a young secondary with Bodden returning should be fine so long as we can get some pressure on the passer.It's not just the numbers against the pass, it's the fact that some truly lousy QBs have owned us over the years (even in 2007 - A.J. Feeley, Kyle Boller). This year, guys like Flacco, Sanchez, Flynn, etc. And God forbid we should be up by any less than four TDs on Peyton Manning in a second half. The defense is great at keeping things in front of them and maintaining discipline, which is why they seem to excel against PA offenses, zone blocking schemes, and guys like Roethlisberger who thrive on chaos. But in the end, against decent pocket passers, the best they can do is force long drives and pray for a drop on 3rd down/bad decision/etc. How many times now have they failed in the crunch, even before 2007?Everything else is a luxury. They absolutely need an elite pure pass rusher, and I think trading for one instead of these constant half-measures (e.g. Derrick Burgess), at this point, may be the way to go.

This team will not win a championship until this area improves...it is by far their most glaring exposure. I know BB likes his players to be multi-dimensional but this is one area that they can afford to get a player or two who are more of a specialist.

 

[AngryPatriot]

No doubt they need a better pass rush, that's a given. Cunningham showed some glimpses

 

[Hoss_Cartwright]

I was listening to Mel Kiper today and he thinks there is a very real possibility that NE will trade up with Cincinnati to get AJ Green.

 

[The Berry Man]

I was listening to Mel Kiper today and he thinks there is a very real possibility that NE will trade up with Cincinnati to get AJ Green.

Extremely unlikely, in my opinion.

 

[Boston]

I was listening to Mel Kiper today and he thinks there is a very real possibility that NE will trade up with Cincinnati to get AJ Green.

Anything is possible but I would hate to see the Pats use the resources it would take to get that pick and not use it on defense.

 

[DawnBTVS]

I would think that if NE were to trade up at all for a WR, it would be for Julio Jones. Really take a look at their rookie picks/FA signings and you'll notice several things.

1: Special Teams are key. This isn't a surprise to anybody who follows the team (see the McCourty pick last year).

2: Return Ability is a key factor. Almost every WR, CB, and even several of their RBs (including Laurence Maroney) have had some familiarity with returning the ball whether it be on punts or kicks. This pushes Julio Jones over A.J. Green.

Also with Jones there is the Nick Saban connection.

 

[munchkin]

I was listening to Mel Kiper today and he thinks there is a very real possibility that NE will trade up with Cincinnati to get AJ Green.

I don't know that it is in BB's blood to put all the resources he would have to into getting that one player. It would take some combination of 17 along with 28 or 33 plus to get to the 4th slot. It certainly isn't inconceivable but with there needs on the D-line, O-line and at OLB they would hamper their ability to fill one of those other immediate needs. It would be nice to have another potentially great skill position player on the roster but Brady to Moss wasn't enough in 07 and this team needs to be more balanced on both sides of the ball.

 

[David Yudkin]

It appears that the Pats have signed former BUF DT Marcus Stroud to a 2-year contract.

 

[Boston]

Stephen Neal has officially retired...no surprise here as he just can't stay healthy...a very solid player when he was on the field especially when you consider he came off of the wrestling mat to the NFL.

http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/extra_points/2011/03/report_neal_lis.html?p1=Upbox_links

 

[captain_amazing]

So what are we looking at with 3 of the first 33 picks? Will we be trading up/down with any of the first 3 picks? What kinds of needs do you see the Pats filling? Do you foresee any non-need picks (i.e. player of a non-need position falls but has much greater value than a player of a need position)?

For those that might be interested as well, here are all of the known players that have had individual workouts w/the Pats:

Cortez Allen, DB, Citadel

Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska

Marvin Austin, DT, North Carolina

Allen Bailey, DL, Miami

Tim Barnes, OL, Missouri

Chykie Brown, CB, Texas

Corbin Bryant, DL, Northwestern

Randall Cobb, WR/AP (all-purpose), Kentucky

Andy Dalton, QB, Texas Christian

Desia Dunn, DB, Fresno State

Kenrick Ellis, DL, Hampton

Ricky Elmore, DE, Arizona

Edmond Gates, WR, Abilene Christian

Virgil Green, TE, Nevada

Andre Holmes, WR, Hillsdale

Kendall Hunter, RB, Oklahoma State

Jaiquawn Jarrett, DB, Temple

Eli Joseph, DL, Temple

Jeremy Kerley, WR, Texas Christian

Derrick Locke, RB, Kentucky

Jake Locker, QB, Washington

Chris Matthews, WR, Kentucky

Terrell McClain, DL, South Florida

Greg McElroy, QB, Alabama

Adrien Moten, LB, Maryland

Johnny Patrick, DB, Louisville

Mike Person, OL, Montana State

Taylor Potts, QB, Texas Tech

Mike Pouncey, OL, Florida

Mistral Raymond, CB, South Florida

Brooks Reed, DE/OLB, Arizona

D’Aundre Reed,DE, Arizona

Greg Romeus, DE/OLB, Pitt

Kevin Rutland, DB, Missouri

Da’Rel Scott, RB, Maryland

Cecil Shorts, WR, Mount Union

Buster Skrine, DB, Tennessee-Chattanooga

Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland

Tyron Smith, OL, USC

Nate Solder, OL, Colorado

Ricky Stanzi, QB, Iowa

Jordan Todman, RB, Uconn

Ryan Williams, RB, Virginia Tech

 

[elguapo07]

Pats love to trade picks in the draft and will do so tonite but I'm calling that they trade UP and grab Quinn from UNC. This is the year for them to trade up and go for a stud on D with 6 pick in the top 3 rounds. Clev @ #6 will be their dance partner.

 

[captain_amazing]

So...

TBC is cut

Mankins reportedly will sign his tender and report on time

Clay Nurse DL (Illinois) signed

Kyle Hix OT (Texas) signed

Jeff Tarpinian (Iowa) signed

What does this all mean? Anyone have info on the signed undrafted rookies? Is this a good faith sign from Mankins that he wants to work at along term deal with the Pats? Was TBC cut because of his recent abdominal injury?

 

[David Yudkin]

Sammy Morris signed a one year deal. I assume it's mostly to play special teams. I didn't think Kevin Faulk was coming back before this signing, now I think there's even less of a chance.

 

[Boston]

Sammy Morris signed a one year deal. I assume it's mostly to play special teams. I didn't think Kevin Faulk was coming back before this signing, now I think there's even less of a chance.

This did seem like an odd signing on the surface...I don't picture Morris signing to simply be training camp fodder...whether this means Faulk is done or there's a trade in the works you would think something is up...

 

[The Ref]

ANy thoughts on a DE or a WR? I mean they STILL cant get to the QB.

 

[David Yudkin]

ANy thoughts on a DE or a WR? I mean they STILL cant get to the QB.

The Pats probably won't do much until after the overpriced feeding frenzy to start free agency. They might swing a trade for a veteran WR if that player is willing to renegotiate for way less money for the honor of playing in New England. I don't see them making any major signings, so if they do sign some free agents they will probably be role players or specialists. Trading for someone might be more likely, but again, probably not involving a superstar.

 

[Boston]

ANy thoughts on a DE or a WR? I mean they STILL cant get to the QB.

Right now their OLBs are Cunningham and Ninkovich and possibly Moore if they switch him there full-time...Cunninghm has a lot of upside but is still somewhat of an unknown quantity, Ninkovich is more of a back-up and while Moore is intriguing he's still a major question mark...there is no way they are going into the season with just that...somethings gotta give here...if the Pats are ever going to win another title they must upgrade this position and their pass rush...it will be interesting to see what BB comes up with here because this is a weak unit right now...

 

[Boston]

http://twitter.com/?p1=News_links#!/Greg_A_Bedard

Looks like there are some signs that Light may return...I would be pleasantly surprised by this...with the silly money being thrown around I assumed he would get an offer that was too rich for the Pats...if he returned it would really settle down the O line while giving Solder time to develop...the question I would have is how long they would sign Light for...with Vollmer entrenched on the right-side I don't see them taking a Tackle at #17 with the intention of having him be a backup for a couple of years...

 

[The Ref]

Whats not to like here?

After two years, tens of millions of dollars, several failed conditioning tests, one horrible example of on-field planking, and a career that has gone very far south, former Washington Redskins defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth(notes) will get a great opportunity he really doesn't deserve. The Redskins have agreed to trade Haynesworth to the New England Patriots for a fifth-round pick in 2013, taking Haynesworth to a team in which he could be the factor that pushes the team over the top — if he cares to do so.

 

[captain_amazing]

Whats not to like here?

After two years, tens of millions of dollars, several failed conditioning tests, one horrible example of on-field planking, and a career that has gone very far south, former Washington Redskins defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth(notes) will get a great opportunity he really doesn't deserve. The Redskins have agreed to trade Haynesworth to the New England Patriots for a fifth-round pick in 2013, taking Haynesworth to a team in which he could be the factor that pushes the team over the top — if he cares to do so.

Agreed This may turn out to be one of the best Pats FA offseasons in recent memories.

 

[shortbow]

So whats the deal here.

Pats release Ty Warren, then Ty essentially says he'll take the vet minimum to play for a contender, does this include New England? Do they have the room?

Source: Peter King on Twitter:LINK

Free agent DE Ty Warren is reportedly willing to play for the veteran's minimum in order to sign with a contender.

SI's Peter King stresses that Warren will not return to the Patriots. Warren, 30, was a top-ten 3-4 defensive end in football two years ago, according to Pro Football Focus. He's openly expressed interest in Dallas and Houston. Jul 30, 2:34 AM

 

[Workhorse]

The deal is, according to Warren, that the Pats are moving away from the 3-4 defense.

Makes sense in light of the move to pick up Haynesworth and letting Banta-Cain walk. If this is true and it sparks Fat Al to play to his potential, forget about running between the tackles on the Patriots this season. With Wilfork, Haynesworth clogging up the middle and Mayo free to roam the middle, the Pats will be a vastly improved team against the run.

I like it.

 

[Boston]

The deal is, according to Warren, that the Pats are moving away from the 3-4 defense. Makes sense in light of the move to pick up Haynesworth and letting Banta-Cain walk. If this is true and it sparks Fat Al to play to his potential, forget about running between the tackles on the Patriots this season. With Wilfork, Haynesworth clogging up the middle and Mayo free to roam the middle, the Pats will be a vastly improved team against the run.I like it.

This really doesn't bother me (if it's true)...I think the style of D that BB has wanted to play is one of the things holding the Pats back from winning a title...when a BB defense has been at it's best with the Giants or Pats it has been because of the LBs...his expectations for those LBs are to be able to do everything whether it's rush the passer, stop the run or cover as well as being big (in the 250 or more range)...unfortunately there's not many guys who fit that description and not too many college kids who can hit the ground running in that D...his D works great when you have an LT, Banks, Carson, McGinest, Vrabel or Bruschi teaming up as a unit in their prime...when you don't it becomes very vanilla and not overly difficult to play against...Overall the Pats D the last four years or so has not been championship-level...regardless of how dynamic the O has been they have not won a title since that side of the ball began slipping...in-particular the pass rush has been killing them...BB can try any exotic coverage scheme he wants but if the QB is not rushed it really doesn't matter because he's not making decisions under durress...whether it's a 3-4 or a 4-3 I really believe the Pats need to get far more aggressive while making the D a little more player-friendly (i.e. easier to grasp)...bring-up the level of play on that side of the ball and I have little doubt that another championship will happen very soon...

 

[captain_amazing]

The deal is, according to Warren, that the Pats are moving away from the 3-4 defense. Makes sense in light of the move to pick up Haynesworth and letting Banta-Cain walk. If this is true and it sparks Fat Al to play to his potential, forget about running between the tackles on the Patriots this season. With Wilfork, Haynesworth clogging up the middle and Mayo free to roam the middle, the Pats will be a vastly improved team against the run.I like it.

This really doesn't bother me (if it's true)...I think the style of D that BB has wanted to play is one of the things holding the Pats back from winning a title...when a BB defense has been at it's best with the Giants or Pats it has been because of the LBs...his expectations for those LBs are to be able to do everything whether it's rush the passer, stop the run or cover as well as being big (in the 250 or more range)...unfortunately there's not many guys who fit that description and not too many college kids who can hit the ground running in that D...his D works great when you have an LT, Banks, Carson, McGinest, Vrabel or Bruschi teaming up as a unit in their prime...when you don't it becomes very vanilla and not overly difficult to play against...Overall the Pats D the last four years or so has not been championship-level...regardless of how dynamic the O has been they have not won a title since that side of the ball began slipping...in-particular the pass rush has been killing them...BB can try any exotic coverage scheme he wants but if the QB is not rushed it really doesn't matter because he's not making decisions under durress...whether it's a 3-4 or a 4-3 I really believe the Pats need to get far more aggressive while making the D a little more player-friendly (i.e. easier to grasp)...bring-up the level of play on that side of the ball and I have little doubt that another championship will happen very soon...

I think the major problem with BB's D scheme right now is that he had so much success with it during the 2000s that many teams have moved from a 4-3 to a 3-4. Whether that 3-4 was one or two-gap, it called for LBs with specific skill-sets that were different than those LBs in 4-3, thus diluting the talent pool available for 3-4 LBs, which as you mentioned, are the quintessential component of a successful 3-4 D. I just tried to do a quick search for what teams currently use 4-3's as their primary Ds but came up with nothing - does anyone know where that information is available?

 

[Boston]

The deal is, according to Warren, that the Pats are moving away from the 3-4 defense. Makes sense in light of the move to pick up Haynesworth and letting Banta-Cain walk. If this is true and it sparks Fat Al to play to his potential, forget about running between the tackles on the Patriots this season. With Wilfork, Haynesworth clogging up the middle and Mayo free to roam the middle, the Pats will be a vastly improved team against the run.I like it.

This really doesn't bother me (if it's true)...I think the style of D that BB has wanted to play is one of the things holding the Pats back from winning a title...when a BB defense has been at it's best with the Giants or Pats it has been because of the LBs...his expectations for those LBs are to be able to do everything whether it's rush the passer, stop the run or cover as well as being big (in the 250 or more range)...unfortunately there's not many guys who fit that description and not too many college kids who can hit the ground running in that D...his D works great when you have an LT, Banks, Carson, McGinest, Vrabel or Bruschi teaming up as a unit in their prime...when you don't it becomes very vanilla and not overly difficult to play against...Overall the Pats D the last four years or so has not been championship-level...regardless of how dynamic the O has been they have not won a title since that side of the ball began slipping...in-particular the pass rush has been killing them...BB can try any exotic coverage scheme he wants but if the QB is not rushed it really doesn't matter because he's not making decisions under durress...whether it's a 3-4 or a 4-3 I really believe the Pats need to get far more aggressive while making the D a little more player-friendly (i.e. easier to grasp)...bring-up the level of play on that side of the ball and I have little doubt that another championship will happen very soon...

I think the major problem with BB's D scheme right now is that he had so much success with it during the 2000s that many teams have moved from a 4-3 to a 3-4. Whether that 3-4 was one or two-gap, it called for LBs with specific skill-sets that were different than those LBs in 4-3, thus diluting the talent pool available for 3-4 LBs, which as you mentioned, are the quintessential component of a successful 3-4 D. I just tried to do a quick search for what teams currently use 4-3's as their primary Ds but came up with nothing - does anyone know where that information is available?

That is a big piece of it no doubt...yet the complexity of it is overwhelming as well...Chad Brown was an All-Pro who played in 3-4s throughout his career...he came here and said he had no idea what he was doing...I think that is one big reason they have drafted so few LBs over the years...whether they go to a 3-4 more like the Steelers or some type of 4-3 I think they are heading in the right direction...

 

[Boston]

http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/articles/2011/08/01/light_agrees_to_two_year_deal/

Matt Light re-ups for two years (haven't seen the $ yet)...pleasantly surprised by this...I really thought he was going elsewhere...having Light and Mankins back helps stabilize the O-line this year and doesn't throw Solder to the wolves right away...

 

[captain_amazing]

Is the fact that the Pats are reportedly in the hunt for Osi Umenyiora's services reveal, even more so now, that the Pats are moving to a more traditional 4-3? If this goes through then....... Wow.

 

[AngryPatriot]

That would be awesome. I really like the Light resigning, for his skills as well as his locker room influence (... Haynesworth...) Hopefully Cunningham will let loose this year and pile up some sacks. Hanynesworth/ Wilfork is quite the tandem. It will be interesting to see who survives the RB battle, they're carrying 6 right now. I think it would be a mistake to not keep Woodhead involved quite a bit, amazing football skills (ala Welker and even Edelman). Morris is probably done, BJGE or Ridley are not signed yet I believe. Bodden is back.

the Pats are absolutely loaded on offense and will be a nightmare for a lot of teams.

 

[Boston]

http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/extra_points/2011/08/report_patriots_11.html?p1=Upbox_links

Shaun Ellis is the newest Patriot...I really like this move (especially since Ellis always seemed to kill the Pats)...they are loading up on the D-line (they signed Mark Anderson a few days ago)...on paper it really does seem like more 4-3 looks are in the cards...I would like to see one more quality LB added to the mix...do that and this D just may be able to make the leap to a level that can help win another title...

 

[Boston]

http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/extra_points/2011/08/de_andre_carter.html

Looks like Andre Carter has joined the D-line sweepstakes...consider yourself a football Guru if you can correctly guess how this position will look on opening day...

 

[HellToupee]

http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/extra_points/2011/08/de_andre_carter.htmlLooks like Andre Carter has joined the D-line sweepstakes...consider yourself a football Guru if you can correctly guess how this position will look on opening day...

Didn't Carter have some things to say about Haynesworth when they were in DC?

 

[Boston]

http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/extra_points/2011/08/de_andre_carter.htmlLooks like Andre Carter has joined the D-line sweepstakes...consider yourself a football Guru if you can correctly guess how this position will look on opening day...

Didn't Carter have some things to say about Haynesworth when they were in DC?

He did...I guess he was pretty vocal about Big Al's behavior in DC...should be interesting to see how this plays out...

 

[AngryPatriot]

wow- they are not messing around... Looks like we FINALLY WILL HAVE A PASS RUSH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yeah! Get off the field on 3 rd down, get the ball in Brady's hands more, win a ton of games. Maybe more importantly: have the ability to rush Sanchez and bring down Ben. Super Bowl or bust.

 

[Reaper]

wow- they are not messing around... Looks like we FINALLY WILL HAVE A PASS RUSH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yeah! Get off the field on 3 rd down, get the ball in Brady's hands more, win a ton of games. Maybe more importantly: have the ability to rush Sanchez and bring down Ben. Super Bowl or bust.

And they call Philly the Dream Team... I thought before all these moves that the Pats were the #1 team in the NFL and Dominant...They could make another run towards undefeated - heck they won 14 last year.

 

[AngryPatriot]

On a side note, heres a link to Miguels Unofficial slaray cap site... good breakdown.

http://patscap.com/

 

[Boston]

No link but Gerard Warren was re-signed...he did a decent job last year...no word whether there is truth to the rumors the Pats are close to signing Dexter Manley and Jack Youngblood as well...

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

wow- they are not messing around... Looks like we FINALLY WILL HAVE A PASS RUSH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yeah! Get off the field on 3 rd down, get the ball in Brady's hands more, win a ton of games. Maybe more importantly: have the ability to rush Sanchez and bring down Ben. Super Bowl or bust.

And they call Philly the Dream Team... I thought before all these moves that the Pats were the #1 team in the NFL and Dominant...They could make another run towards undefeated - heck they won 14 last year.

really?I think they over-achieved last year. contenders no doubt, but the pass rush and secondary are still a work in progress and their running game isnt all that either.Brady does have year 2 with the TEs and Ocho-Welker-Branch is decent enuff

 

[Bayhawks]

really?I think they over-achieved last year. contenders no doubt, but the pass rush and secondary are still a work in progress and their running game isnt all that either.Brady does have year 2 with the TEs and Ocho-Welker-Branch is decent enuff

They did over-achieve last year. Their defense was very suspect, but they've added A LOT of pieces to that D this off-season. If the coaching staff can get those pieces to fit, their main weakness should be much improved.Your comment about their running game is false, however. The Pats were top 10 in rushing attempts, yards, YPC, and rushing TDs in 2010. I think they could be described as "all that," even though they don't have 1 RB who is "all that." The only RB from 2010 who isn't currently on the roster is Fred Taylor, but I think his 161 total yards and 3.6 YPC can be easyily replaced.

 

[Carver]

Brady is a God among men when he has Two legitimate TE's to work with.

He's also awesome because he stood out in a downpour after practice to sign for the fans yesterday. That was a pretty cool nod of appriciation for the ones who stuck around.