Pat' off season and next year (1 Viewer)

[Noahs Troopers]

This guy was the one who broke the story on the Vince Young wonderlic test score and the Ricky Williams drug test...

Patriot Act 3-15-06

The question on everyone’s mind this morning is

who is going to end up with T.O. Hate him or love

him, people are curious about where he is going to

end up and how much money will he eventually get.

The teams that we know are interested are the

Dolphins, Chiefs, Cowboys and Broncos. There is

another team which I have confirmed that has interest,

but doesn’t want it to become public and that is

the New England Patriots. Drew Rosenhaus has had

some discussions with the Patriots brass, nothing

serious, but it has been discussed. Before you think

this is crazy, I have two words for you, Corey Dillon.

The Patriots are more than 20 million dollars under

the cap and just lost David Givens and Andre Davis.

Don’t be shocked if they end up signing Owens, just

remember you got the inside scoop here first.

Source : http://www.robertlittal.com/

 

[Workhorse]

No thanks. I just can't see it.

 

[Serenity Now]

I read in the Herald today that the Pats are likely looking at Keyshawn, Moulds (if he becomes available), Nate Burleson, and Josh Reed at WR.  The Pats only have Branch and Bethel Johnson under contract may very well cut Johnson.  They also mentioned that once the team cuts CB Tyrone Poole later this week that N.E. will be $20 million under the cap.

Hmmm..... Moulds/Burleson/Branch would make a really intriguing WR corps.

I don't see Moulds signing for #2 money and since they've slotted Branch #1 money Keyshawn would be in the budget though.

 

[dlos]

This guy was the one who broke the story on the Vince Young wonderlic test score and the Ricky Williams drug test...

Patriot Act 3-15-06

The question on everyone’s mind this morning is

who is going to end up with T.O. Hate him or love

him, people are curious about where he is going to

end up and how much money will he eventually get.

The teams that we know are interested are the

Dolphins, Chiefs, Cowboys and Broncos. There is

another team which I have confirmed that has interest,

but doesn’t want it to become public and that is

the New England Patriots. Drew Rosenhaus has had

some discussions with the Patriots brass, nothing

serious, but it has been discussed. Before you think

this is crazy, I have two words for you, Corey Dillon.

The Patriots are more than 20 million dollars under

the cap and just lost David Givens and Andre Davis.

Don’t be shocked if they end up signing Owens, just

remember you got the inside scoop here first.

Source : http://www.robertlittal.com/

I would love to see him in a Pats uniform next year.Just sign him to a 1 year deal and see how his attitude works. If any coach can controll him it's BB.

 

[Workhorse]

I read in the Herald today that the Pats are likely looking at Keyshawn, Moulds (if he becomes available), Nate Burleson, and Josh Reed at WR.  The Pats only have Branch and Bethel Johnson under contract may very well cut Johnson.  They also mentioned that once the team cuts CB Tyrone Poole later this week that N.E. will be $20 million under the cap.

Hmmm..... Moulds/Burleson/Branch would make a really intriguing WR corps.

I don't see Moulds signing for #2 money and since they've slotted Branch #1 money Keyshawn would be in the budget though.

I think with $20 million in cap room, they could afford Moulds if they wanted him badly enough...

 

[David Yudkin]

I read in the Herald today that the Pats are likely looking at Keyshawn, Moulds (if he becomes available), Nate Burleson, and Josh Reed at WR.  The Pats only have Branch and Bethel Johnson under contract may very well cut Johnson.  They also mentioned that once the team cuts CB Tyrone Poole later this week that N.E. will be $20 million under the cap.

Hmmm..... Moulds/Burleson/Branch would make a really intriguing WR corps.

I don't see Moulds signing for #2 money and since they've slotted Branch #1 money Keyshawn would be in the budget though.

Branch currently is dramatically underpaid and has a year left on his low ball contract. They are over $20 million under the cap. I'm not sure Moulds will want top dollar. The Pats have plenty of money to spend, it's just a matter of how they want to spend it.

 

[David Yudkin]

I would love to see him in a Pats uniform next year. Just sign him to a 1 year deal and see how his attitude works. If any coach can controll him it's BB.

Problem is that T.O. will likely command more than a one year incentive laiden contract. It takes two sides to sign a deal, and Owens likely will not go for something like that. It remains to be seen if he can get closer to what he thinks he deserves.

 

[Borat]

This guy was the one who broke the story on the Vince Young wonderlic test score and the Ricky Williams drug test...

Patriot Act 3-15-06

The question on everyone’s mind this morning is

who is going to end up with T.O. Hate him or love

him, people are curious about where he is going to

end up and how much money will he eventually get.

The teams that we know are interested are the

Dolphins, Chiefs, Cowboys and Broncos. There is

another team which I have confirmed that has interest,

but doesn’t want it to become public and that is

the New England Patriots. Drew Rosenhaus has had

some discussions with the Patriots brass, nothing

serious, but it has been discussed. Before you think

this is crazy, I have two words for you, Corey Dillon.

The Patriots are more than 20 million dollars under

the cap and just lost David Givens and Andre Davis.

Don’t be shocked if they end up signing Owens, just

remember you got the inside scoop here first.

Source : http://www.robertlittal.com/

I'm sick of hearing this argument. It's nonsense. It's been noted that Dillon's problems in Cincy were with the media, not his coaches and not his teammates. TO's problems in Philly were all of the above.

 

[nerangers]

Browns | McGinest agrees to three-year deal

Wed, 15 Mar 2006 13:20:41 -0800

Len Pasquarelli, of ESPN.com, reports the Cleveland Browns have agreed to terms with free agent LB Willie McGinest (Patriots) on a three-year, $12 million deal.



Browns | McGinest contract update

Wed, 15 Mar 2006 16:13:42 -0800

Updating previous reports, SI.com reports the contract LB Willie McGinest received from the Cleveland Browns includes $6 million in guarantees and bonuses.

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Team might have interest in Runyan

Wed, 15 Mar 2006 18:19:09 -0800

Bob Brookover, of the Philadelphia Inquirer, reports the New England Patriots might have interest in free agent OT Jon Runyan (Eagles).

 

[Boston]

Patriots | Team might have interest in Runyan

Wed, 15 Mar 2006 18:19:09 -0800

Bob Brookover, of the Philadelphia Inquirer, reports the New England Patriots might have interest in free agent OT Jon Runyan (Eagles).

I'd really like to see this happen. He brings a nasty attitude and a veteran presence. They really liked him when he signed with Philly so maybe they can get him this time around. Adding Runyan to the four young guys (Light, Mankins, Koppen and Kazcur) would be a nice mix. It would also also keep Gorin and Hochstein in backup roles where they are more valuable.

 

[Pat Patriot]

I read in the Herald today that the Pats are likely looking at Keyshawn, Moulds (if he becomes available), Nate Burleson, and Josh Reed at WR.  The Pats only have Branch and Bethel Johnson under contract may very well cut Johnson.  They also mentioned that once the team cuts CB Tyrone Poole later this week that N.E. will be $20 million under the cap.

Hmmm..... Moulds/Burleson/Branch would make a really intriguing WR corps.

I don't see Moulds signing for #2 money and since they've slotted Branch #1 money Keyshawn would be in the budget though.

Branch currently is dramatically underpaid and has a year left on his low ball contract. They are over $20 million under the cap. I'm not sure Moulds will want top dollar. The Pats have plenty of money to spend, it's just a matter of how they want to spend it.

Kind of inaccurate to depict Deion Branch's contract as a "low ball contract". Branch was a 2nd round pick and was paid like one. He is still working off of his rookie contract. He has played like a 1st rounder but the fact remains he was a 2nd round pick.

 

[Franknbeans]

Patriots | Team might have interest in Runyan

Wed, 15 Mar 2006 18:19:09 -0800

Bob Brookover, of the Philadelphia Inquirer, reports the New England Patriots might have interest in free agent OT Jon Runyan (Eagles).

I'd really like to see this happen. He brings a nasty attitude and a veteran presence. They really liked him when he signed with Philly so maybe they can get him this time around. Adding Runyan to the four young guys (Light, Mankins, Koppen and Kazcur) would be a nice mix. It would also also keep Gorin and Hochstein in backup roles where they are more valuable.

Hey Boston,Any idea what the Pats will do with their running back situation?

 

[David Yudkin]

I read in the Herald today that the Pats are likely looking at Keyshawn, Moulds (if he becomes available), Nate Burleson, and Josh Reed at WR.  The Pats only have Branch and Bethel Johnson under contract may very well cut Johnson.  They also mentioned that once the team cuts CB Tyrone Poole later this week that N.E. will be $20 million under the cap.

Hmmm..... Moulds/Burleson/Branch would make a really intriguing WR corps.

I don't see Moulds signing for #2 money and since they've slotted Branch #1 money Keyshawn would be in the budget though.

Branch currently is dramatically underpaid and has a year left on his low ball contract. They are over $20 million under the cap. I'm not sure Moulds will want top dollar. The Pats have plenty of money to spend, it's just a matter of how they want to spend it.

Kind of inaccurate to depict Deion Branch's contract as a "low ball contract". Branch was a 2nd round pick and was paid like one. He is still working off of his rookie contract. He has played like a 1st rounder but the fact remains he was a 2nd round pick.

Branch hit an escalalor clause in his contract that increased his salary this year from $545,000 to $1,045,000. How much do you think Branch would fetch on the open market? I'm guessing it's leaps and bounds above that.I heard last night that Keyshawn was looking for a 2 year, $6 million (total) deal.

 

[Boston]

Patriots | Team might have interest in Runyan

Wed, 15 Mar 2006 18:19:09 -0800

Bob Brookover, of the Philadelphia Inquirer, reports the New England Patriots might have interest in free agent OT Jon Runyan (Eagles).

I'd really like to see this happen. He brings a nasty attitude and a veteran presence. They really liked him when he signed with Philly so maybe they can get him this time around. Adding Runyan to the four young guys (Light, Mankins, Koppen and Kazcur) would be a nice mix. It would also also keep Gorin and Hochstein in backup roles where they are more valuable.

Hey Boston,Any idea what the Pats will do with their running back situation?

In all honesty I have no clue. Right now they've lost a few players but have 20 million in cap space as well as an extra #3 and #4 in the draft. They seem to be content letting the dust settle with the silly contract portion of free agency. Since you don't really know who will be available it's awfully tough to guess what they're up to.As far as RB they definetly need another pair of legs to go with Dillon, Faulk and Pass. Dillon will be back and part of the puzzle. It would cost more to release him than keep him. He did not look good last year right from the start. Hopefully it was due to injuries but at his age things can head downhill real fast. Therefore they need a plan B because both Faulk and Pass are not full time backs although both are very effective in their roles. Last year all three were injured and the Pats had to use a guy like Heath Evans. They can not get themselves into a similar situation.

As for who they will add I went into to the offseason thinking anything is possible be it a high end free agent, a low end free agent, a high draft pick or a middle rounder. Well, right now you can take the high end free agent option off the table because they are all signed. The only name I have heard linked to them from the low end free agent group is Verron Haynes. While he's a quality RB I don't see what he gives you that you're not already getting with Faulk and Pass. As far as the draft goes the word from the combine was they were very active with interviewing the RBs. What that means is open to speculation.

So, the bottomline is they need a RB...and I have literally no idea what they are going to do. My preference is a young RB that can be a breakaway threat as the Pats could really use a big play RB to diversify their attack. Right now their RB core doesn't have that element.

 

[David Yudkin]

The final offers for Givens came it at . . .

Tennessee $24 million

New England $17.5 million

Houston $16.5 million

Detailed breakdown of the negotiations HERE.

 

[Workhorse]

Gee, what a shocker that Borges got all the details:

He and Givens have the same agent.

 

[Borat]

Gee, what a shocker that Borges got all the details:

He and Givens have the same agent.

#### Borges.

 

[Boston]

Gee, what a shocker that Borges got all the details:

He and Givens have the same agent.

#### Borges.

I really dislike him and his arrogant know it all attitude. You would think when you've been as wrong as he has over the years he'd lose the attitude but not old Ronny. He simply knows more than everyone else.

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Poole released

Thu, 16 Mar 2006 10:02:36 -0800

Len Pasquarelli, of ESPN.com, reports New England Patriots CB Tyrone Poole has been released from the team. His release saves the Patriots a little over $2 million in salary cap space.

Jets | T. Brown to visit

Thu, 16 Mar 2006 14:12:34 -0800

The Boston Globe reports free agent WR Troy Brown (Patriots) is scheduled to visit the New York Jets Thursday, March 16.

Say it is not so!!!



Patriots | Kraft discusses McGinest's departure

Thu, 16 Mar 2006 06:43:08 -0800

John Tomase, of the Boston Herald, reports New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft and his family bought the Patriots 12 years ago and made former Patriots LB Willie McGinest, now with the Cleveland Browns, their first ever draft pick. With McGinest headed to the Browns after spending his 12-year career with the Patriots, Kraft said, "This is a very sad day for me. To see Willie joining another team after he was the first draft choice when our family bought the team, I have a very special place for him. He represented us so well. He's someone we're going to miss very much."

Should have paid him the 12 million and had him finish as a Patriot!

 

[Pat Patriot]

I read in the Herald today that the Pats are likely looking at Keyshawn, Moulds (if he becomes available), Nate Burleson, and Josh Reed at WR.  The Pats only have Branch and Bethel Johnson under contract may very well cut Johnson.  They also mentioned that once the team cuts CB Tyrone Poole later this week that N.E. will be $20 million under the cap.

Hmmm..... Moulds/Burleson/Branch would make a really intriguing WR corps.

I don't see Moulds signing for #2 money and since they've slotted Branch #1 money Keyshawn would be in the budget though.

Branch currently is dramatically underpaid and has a year left on his low ball contract. They are over $20 million under the cap. I'm not sure Moulds will want top dollar. The Pats have plenty of money to spend, it's just a matter of how they want to spend it.

Kind of inaccurate to depict Deion Branch's contract as a "low ball contract". Branch was a 2nd round pick and was paid like one. He is still working off of his rookie contract. He has played like a 1st rounder but the fact remains he was a 2nd round pick.

Branch hit an escalalor clause in his contract that increased his salary this year from $545,000 to $1,045,000. How much do you think Branch would fetch on the open market? I'm guessing it's leaps and bounds above that.I heard last night that Keyshawn was looking for a 2 year, $6 million (total) deal.

LOWBALL indicates that the team stuck him with a bad contract. He got what any 2nd round receiver would get and has proven himself to be better than the contract. He will get a better contract starting next year. He wont break the bank though, he is not that type of receiver.

 

[nerangers]

More on Poole from Boston.com

March 16, 2006

Poole released

One day before they were due to pay him a $500,000 roster bonus, the Patriots released cornerback Tyrone Poole on Thursday. The move will save the Patriots between approximately $1.5-2 million on the salary cap.

Poole (5-9, 188) joined the Patriots prior to the 2003 season and was a key contributor in the team's championship season that year, starting all 16 games and all three playoff contests. Patriots coach Bill Belichick later said Poole turned in an exemplary effort that exceeded expectations that season.

But injuries limited Poole to six games over the last two seasons. He was injured in the 2005 season-opener and never suited up again.

The Patriots currently have Asante Samuel and Ellis Hobbs -- both of whom finished 2005 as starters -- returning at cornerback. Depth comes in the form of Randall Gay (an exclusive rights free agent who is expected to be retained), Hank Poteat and Artrell Hawkins.

 

[nerangers]

MOre on Troy ...Tim Dwight too!

March 16, 2006

Jets eye Troy

Patriots receiver Troy Brown is scheduled to visit the Jets today, according to the Boston Globe's Jerome Solomon and Ron Borges.

Brown (5-10, 196), who is a free agent, has spent his entire 13-year NFL career with the Patriots. He ranks second on the team's all-time receiving list, with 514 receptions.

The 34-year-old Brown totaled 39 catches for 466 yards and two touchdowns in 2005. He also continued his role as an emergency defensive back. Brown was also a free agent last year and was courted by the New Orleans Saints before returning to New England.

Former Patriots defensive coordinator Eric Mangini is the Jets' head coach, so he has plenty of background on Brown. The Jets also planned to visit with receiver Tim Dwight this weekend.

The Patriots are currently thin at receiver, with only two regulars from 2005 under contract -- Deion Branch and Bethel Johnson.

 

[Pat Patriot]

Patriots | Poole released

Thu, 16 Mar 2006 10:02:36 -0800

Len Pasquarelli, of ESPN.com, reports New England Patriots CB Tyrone Poole has been released from the team. His release saves the Patriots a little over $2 million in salary cap space.

Jets | T. Brown to visit

Thu, 16 Mar 2006 14:12:34 -0800

The Boston Globe reports free agent WR Troy Brown (Patriots) is scheduled to visit the New York Jets Thursday, March 16.

Say it is not so!!!



Patriots | Kraft discusses McGinest's departure

Thu, 16 Mar 2006 06:43:08 -0800

John Tomase, of the Boston Herald, reports New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft and his family bought the Patriots 12 years ago and made former Patriots LB Willie McGinest, now with the Cleveland Browns, their first ever draft pick. With McGinest headed to the Browns after spending his 12-year career with the Patriots, Kraft said, "This is a very sad day for me. To see Willie joining another team after he was the first draft choice when our family bought the team, I have a very special place for him. He represented us so well. He's someone we're going to miss very much."

Should have paid him the 12 million and had him finish as a Patriot!

Originally I was upset at McGinnest for going to Cleveland. My attitude was, why go chase an extra $2-3 million when you have already made TONS in your career. However, that viewpoint was thinking the Pats were offering about 3 yrs and $9 million compaired to Clevelands $12 million. Now I hear that the Pats didnt even make him an offer after they cut him. This one is on the Pats. Farewell Willie, you will be missed. McGinest was one of the great leaders on the Pats. I saw him around town quite a bit when I lived in Quincy. He seemed like a really nice guy.

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Poole released

Thu, 16 Mar 2006 10:02:36 -0800

Len Pasquarelli, of ESPN.com, reports New England Patriots CB Tyrone Poole has been released from the team. His release saves the Patriots a little over $2 million in salary cap space.

Jets | T. Brown to visit

Thu, 16 Mar 2006 14:12:34 -0800

The Boston Globe reports free agent WR Troy Brown (Patriots) is scheduled to visit the New York Jets Thursday, March 16.

Say it is not so!!!



Patriots | Kraft discusses McGinest's departure

Thu, 16 Mar 2006 06:43:08 -0800

John Tomase, of the Boston Herald, reports New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft and his family bought the Patriots 12 years ago and made former Patriots LB Willie McGinest, now with the Cleveland Browns, their first ever draft pick. With McGinest headed to the Browns after spending his 12-year career with the Patriots, Kraft said, "This is a very sad day for me. To see Willie joining another team after he was the first draft choice when our family bought the team, I have a very special place for him. He represented us so well. He's someone we're going to miss very much."

Should have paid him the 12 million and had him finish as a Patriot!

Originally I was upset at McGinnest for going to Cleveland. My attitude was, why go chase an extra $2-3 million when you have already made TONS in your career. However, that viewpoint was thinking the Pats were offering about 3 yrs and $9 million compaired to Clevelands $12 million. Now I hear that the Pats didnt even make him an offer after they cut him. This one is on the Pats. Farewell Willie, you will be missed. McGinest was one of the great leaders on the Pats. I saw him around town quite a bit when I lived in Quincy. He seemed like a really nice guy.

I didn't like hearing that the Pats were not in discussions with him. I think they could have gotten this one done without braking the bank. I am sure Willie had some endorsements going on in the NE area as well. I think he would have been good for the three years, and then could have retired as a Patriot. I am glad he is with Crennell though...hate seeing Patriots go to the Jets! :X

 

[Boston]

I feel like a kid waiting for Christmas...

The Pats have been letting guys walk. That means they have slots that need to be filled. They also have 20 million in cap space. That is a ton of money for BB and Pioli to work with. They've done a lot more with a lot less in the past. So, you know between free agency, the draft and dealing with possible extensions there's going to be a ton of activity...the numbers/roster openings dictate that. The fact that the Pats always spend to the cap means at some point there's going to be a flurry of transactions.

Yet, so far it's silence. At some point this is going to get real interesting because it's almost impossible to guess what they will do. Literally, anyhing is possible. I'm incredibly intrigued by what this roster is going to look like when the dust finally setlles.

 

[Roll Them Bones]

I feel like a kid waiting for Christmas...

The Pats have been letting guys walk. That means they have slots that need to be filled. They also have 20 million in cap space. That is a ton of money for BB and Pioli to work with. They've done a lot more with a lot less in the past. So, you know between free agency, the draft and dealing with possible extensions there's going to be a ton of activity...the numbers/roster openings dictate that. The fact that the Pats always spend to the cap means at some point there's going to be a flurry of transactions.

Yet, so far it's silence. At some point this is going to get real interesting because it's almost impossible to guess what they will do. Literally, anyhing is possible. I'm incredibly intrigued by what this roster is going to look like when the dust finally setlles.

The Pats are definitely going to get involved in FA soon. I admit its very tough seeing all these players go to other teams. Moulds is going to be a FA at some point, Keyshawn is around now. Maybe BB is anticipating several defensive players being released and is planning on targetting them. As frustrating as it is now, i believe in what he does. Patriot fans have no reason not to.

 

[nerangers]

Townsend in town

The Patriots are hosting free-agent cornerback Deshea Townsend at Gillette Stadium today. Townsend (5-10, 190) is an eight-year veteran. He is also considering re-signing with the Steelers.

"He's having a wonderful visit and it's coming down to the wire," said Peter Schaffer, Townsend's agent. "We're moving pretty quick."

Townsend's visit comes on the same day the Patriots announced the release of veteran cornerback Tyrone Poole. Townsend has spent his entire career with the Steelers after being selected in the fourth round of the 1998 draft.

 

[nerangers]

Guess the Pats are starting off small...

Patriots | Childress signs tender offer

Fri, 17 Mar 2006 06:18:35 -0800

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports New England Patriots exclusive-rights free agent WR Brandon Childress signed his one-year, $275,000 tender offer to return to the team.

Patriots | Team visits with Caldwell

Fri, 17 Mar 2006 06:16:07 -0800

Tom E. Curran, of the Providence Journal, reports the New England Patriots visited with free agent WR Reche Caldwell (Chargers) Thursday, March 16.

Patriots | Team visits with Townsend

Fri, 17 Mar 2006 06:12:50 -0800

Tom E. Curran, of the Providence Journal, reports the New England Patriots visited with free agent CB Deshea Townsend (Steelers) Thursday, March 16.

 

[Workhorse]

Apparently, Mike Felger is saying that the Pats are close to re-signing Richard Seymour to an eye-popping contract extension...

 

[Boston]

Apparently, Mike Felger is saying that the Pats are close to re-signing Richard Seymour to an eye-popping contract extension...

That's the biggest move they could make this offseason...although I shudder to think what the numbers will look like.

 

[David Yudkin]

Apparently, Mike Felger is saying that the Pats are close to re-signing Richard Seymour to an eye-popping contract extension...

That's the biggest move they could make this offseason...although I shudder to think what the numbers will look like.

I read an article in the Hearld the other day and they said they knew what the numbers were for the most part and they were absolutley mind boggling (although they did not reveal what they were).I think that's a good news/bad news situation for Pats' fans in that they will get to keep Seymour but he probably will have the biggest contract ever for a DL.

 

[Werker]

...

I think that's a good news/bad news situation for Pats' fans in that they will get to keep Seymour but he probably will have the biggest contract ever for a DL.

If we know anything about Belichick/Pioli its that they're conservative to a fault. If there's an 'eye popping' number associated with a Seymour long-term extension it will include many outs for the team. By that I mean that there will be many roster bonuses worked into the deal that will allow the team to re-evaluate Seymour regularly.A large signing bonus wouldn't surprise but I bet they'll make it a cap-friendly contract that the team will be able to manage for the long haul.

 

[Boston]

Apparently, Mike Felger is saying that the Pats are close to re-signing Richard Seymour to an eye-popping contract extension...

That's the biggest move they could make this offseason...although I shudder to think what the numbers will look like.

I read an article in the Hearld the other day and they said they knew what the numbers were for the most part and they were absolutley mind boggling (although they did not reveal what they were).I think that's a good news/bad news situation for Pats' fans in that they will get to keep Seymour but he probably will have the biggest contract ever for a DL.

There's pretty much no way around it. He's really a special talent. He can play inside and out. He can rush the passer and stop the run. He can play in 3-4 and a 4-3 at every position. He's young, just entering his prime, is a very solid citizen and is a leader. Last year he proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that he's irreplaceable. He is the foundation of their defense.IMO he's the best defensive player in the NFL. He also wants to be paid accordingly so this is definetly a case where the Pats will have to ante up fair market value. It hurts a little on the cap but it's nowhere near as painful as it would be if they were to lose him. It could take them another 20 years until they dug up a similar player.

 

[Workhorse]

Seymour is a special player but his inability to stay healthy for a full season is troubling for a guy who is apparently about to get a giant contract.

 

[Boston]

Seymour is a special player but his inability to stay healthy for a full season is troubling for a guy who is apparently about to get a giant contract.

I agree. He's had some nagging injuries the past two years. With a big deal his playing every week becomes even more critical (if that's possible). Yet, he's just too important not to pony up the cash.

 

[Davej626]

Wow. Whatever happened to In Bill we Trust??? They have 20mill in cap room. There is still the draft and the June 1st cuts before camp. You guys need to relax. Just because they haven't come out gunning like Minne, Clev, and Washington doesn't mean they don't have a plan. They need WRs and there are still plenty on the market. If they signed the first WR out there once FA started, (Moss) they would have overspent or gotten into a bidding war with Washington. They are playing like they always do. Relax.

As far as Willie is concerned, thank you. thanks for the years willie. Best of luck in Cleveland. I'm glad he didn't stay. That doesn't mean I don't like him. But this team has been very consistant. Once your play gets to a certain level, they simple let you go. They decided that Willie was worth X. Cleveland paid him more. Great. Everyone is happy. Best of luck Willie. One final thing to keep in mind. This draft is full of LBs.

 

[David Yudkin]

As for McGinnest, some of what is being perceived is a bit misleading. While the Pats didn't make a formal offer to him since releasing him, I've heard from several people close to the team that they were in contact with him by phone and there were discussions about what he wanted and what he was offered from other franchises. When the Browns offered more than the Pats wanted to give him, they wished him the best and parted ways. It's not like they stiffed him, never bothered even talking to him, and said good riddance by ignoring him. It sounds like the Pats were allowed to match the Browns' offer and they declined.

The Patriots M.O. these days is NOT to make an offer to anyone. They intentionally ask what the player wants and then go from there, as they don't want to make either a high initial offer or a low insulting initial offer. So instead they let the players (and agents) come to them with a demand and they go from there as a starting point.

As an aside, from what I've seen over the years, the Pats have a complete set of contract, market value, comparible players, signing bonus, and team salary cap database for every player/every team in the league. They in turn come up with what each player is worth, how much he should have left in the tank based on age and projected longevity, and then they come up with a number and a model contract. They have made this both an art and a science. They see who else is on the open market, who is coming out in the draft, who might be cut in June, who might be available by trade, and factor all those things together.

They of course start on the low side in negotiating and try to get to an acceptible number near that model contract, and once it gets to a certain point beyond that they will pass on that player.

This should not be all that surprising, as there is a master plan and an agenda, so I would not be alarmed that players that have flown off the board to date were ones that the Pats did not deem worth what they were getting contract wise or perhaps even talent wise. They will spend their $20 million, it's just a matter of who they will get for it.

 

[Boston]

As for McGinnest, some of what is being perceived is a bit misleading.  While the Pats didn't make a formal offer to him since releasing him, I've heard from several people close to the team that they were in contact with him by phone and there were discussions about what he wanted and what he was offered from other franchises.  When the Browns offered more than the Pats wanted to give him, they wished him the best and parted ways.  It's not like they stiffed him, never bothered even talking to him, and said good riddance by ignoring him.  It sounds like the Pats were allowed to match the Browns' offer and they declined.

The Patriots M.O. these days is NOT to make an offer to anyone.  They intentionally ask what the player wants and then go from there, as they don't want to make either a high initial offer or a low insulting initial offer.  So instead they let the players (and agents) come to them with a demand and they go from there as a starting point.

As an aside, from what I've seen over the years, the Pats have a complete set of contract, market value, comparible players, signing bonus, and team salary cap database for every player/every team in the league.  They in turn come up with what each player is worth, how much he should have left in the tank based on age and projected longevity, and then they come up with a number and a model contract.  They have made this both an art and a science.  They see who else is on the open market, who is coming out in the draft, who might be cut in June, who might be available by trade, and factor all those things together.

They of course start on the low side in negotiating and try to get to an acceptible number near that model contract, and once it gets to a certain point beyond that they will pass on that player.

This should not be all that surprising, as there is a master plan and an agenda, so I would not be alarmed that players that have flown off the board to date were ones that the Pats did not deem worth what they were getting contract wise or perhaps even talent wise.  They will spend their $20 million, it's just a matter of who they will get for it.

Great post...right on the money. The Pats come at the $ side of things from two different angles. On one angle they will not overpay for anyone. They have a budget in mind and that's how they go about business. On the other angle they will use up all of their available cap space. They do not leave dollars unused. Often it's used on two or three players instead on one. Therefore they tend to have as deep a roster as there is in the NFL.

This is why it is so intriguing to see how this 20 million is going to be used...because it will get used.

 

[Borat]

Some solid posting here today, guys.

One more thing to add - who were the best players available in free agency this year? Edge? Bentley? Either way, give me a Seymour extension over any of those guys.

And as for Givens, Jurevicious, Finneran, Keyshawn, or any other free agent WR, I'll take a Branch extension over any of those guys as well.

I'm not the least bit worried about the Patriots. As long as Belichick and Brady are around, the Pats will remain one of the most competitive teams in the league.

 

[Exile]

As for McGinnest, some of what is being perceived is a bit misleading. While the Pats didn't make a formal offer to him since releasing him, I've heard from several people close to the team that they were in contact with him by phone and there were discussions about what he wanted and what he was offered from other franchises. When the Browns offered more than the Pats wanted to give him, they wished him the best and parted ways. It's not like they stiffed him, never bothered even talking to him, and said good riddance by ignoring him. It sounds like the Pats were allowed to match the Browns' offer and they declined.

Thanks for posting this bit. The only thing that has bothered me about the Pats off season so far is thinking that they just blew off McGinnest. This information sets my mind at ease.

 

[Boston]

As for McGinnest, some of what is being perceived is a bit misleading.  While the Pats didn't make a formal offer to him since releasing him, I've heard from several people close to the team that they were in contact with him by phone and there were discussions about what he wanted and what he was offered from other franchises.  When the Browns offered more than the Pats wanted to give him, they wished him the best and parted ways.  It's not like they stiffed him, never bothered even talking to him, and said good riddance by ignoring him.  It sounds like the Pats were allowed to match the Browns' offer and they declined.

Thanks for posting this bit. The only thing that has bothered me about the Pats off season so far is thinking that they just blew off McGinnest. This information sets my mind at ease.

They were confirming the same stuff on WEEI yesterday. There was contact (Kraft called himself) but there was never serious negotiating. It was a little cold (that's how the Pats operate) but it was all upfront and done with respect.

 

[Werker]

As for McGinnest, some of what is being perceived is a bit misleading.  While the Pats didn't make a formal offer to him since releasing him, I've heard from several people close to the team that they were in contact with him by phone and there were discussions about what he wanted and what he was offered from other franchises.  When the Browns offered more than the Pats wanted to give him, they wished him the best and parted ways.  It's not like they stiffed him, never bothered even talking to him, and said good riddance by ignoring him.  It sounds like the Pats were allowed to match the Browns' offer and they declined.

Thanks for posting this bit. The only thing that has bothered me about the Pats off season so far is thinking that they just blew off McGinnest. This information sets my mind at ease.

That was never my concern. Here's what Krafty said immediately after learning that Willie was going:

''It's horrible and I'm very sad about it," said Kraft, who called McGinest to congratulate him on the signing and wish him well with the rest of his career. ''This a very sad day for me.

''It's a difficult part of this business . . . free agency. But no matter what happens from here on in, Willie will always have a special place in Patriots' history and in my heart. He's someone who I became pretty close with, and the same goes for his family, his wonderful parents. He's been here as long as I've been here as an owner, and he's made tremendous contributions to this team and community. He was always an outstanding individual both on and off the field."

 

[Werker]

Patriots | Team visits with Townsend

Fri, 17 Mar 2006 06:12:50 -0800

Tom E. Curran, of the Providence Journal, reports the New England Patriots visited with free agent CB Deshea Townsend (Steelers) Thursday, March 16.

Steelers re-sign cornerback Deshea TownsendAssociated Press

3/17/2006

PITTSBURGH (AP) -- The Pittsburgh Steelers re-signed cornerback Deshea Townsend on Friday.

Townsend has played eight seasons for the Steelers, who drafted him in the fourth round out of Alabama in 1998.

Townsend has started the past season-and-a-half and has 13 1/2 sacks and 14 interceptions for his career.

 

[Plaid Boxer]

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

Pats add Reche Caldwell

 

[Boston]

*Too bad about Townsend. I"m hoping the Pats add a solid veteran to go with the youngsters (Gay, Hobbs and Samuel). Yet, I'm sure they'll get someone else for this role.

*No problems adding Caldwell as long as they look at him as a #3/#4 type of guy. He has talent (and decent size) but has yet to prove he can put it together on a regular basis. I'm sure this is for low money with no exposure for the Pats. I'll like this move a lot better when they sign another WR or two that fall between Branch and Caldwell.

 

[nerangers]

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

Pats add Reche Caldwell

Patriots | Caldwell signedFri, 17 Mar 2006 11:50:06 -0800

Patirots.com reports the New England Patriots have signed free agent WR Reche Caldwell (Chargers) to an undisclosed contract.

 

[Thumper]

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

Pats add Reche Caldwell

Patriots | Caldwell signedFri, 17 Mar 2006 11:50:06 -0800

Patirots.com reports the New England Patriots have signed free agent WR Reche Caldwell (Chargers) to an undisclosed contract.

Caldwell is an interesting choice as a #3 or 4 wr.What people don't understand is the Patriots are now $20 million under the cap. Once they lock up Richard Seymour they will turn their attention to free agents that are still on other teams rosters.

There is no way the Patriots are going to overpay in the early free agent market. In the weeks to come the Patriots (who are 20 million under the cap) are going to swoop in on studs like Eric Moulds (just an example) at a very reduced rate.

Teams continue to make the mistake of overpaying 30+ year old veterans and killing their cap.

In the coming days/weeks the Patriots are going to do something big. But they will be very deliberate and take their time.

Keep on eye on the Pat's from here on out.

 

[Bri]

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

Pats add Reche Caldwell

Patriots | Caldwell signedFri, 17 Mar 2006 11:50:06 -0800

Patirots.com reports the New England Patriots have signed free agent WR Reche Caldwell (Chargers) to an undisclosed contract.

never cared for him in SD, now he comes to "my" team. Hate it when that happens. Hopefully he'll stay healthy

 

[rabidfireweasel]

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

Pats add Reche Caldwell

Patriots | Caldwell signedFri, 17 Mar 2006 11:50:06 -0800

Patirots.com reports the New England Patriots have signed free agent WR Reche Caldwell (Chargers) to an undisclosed contract.

What people don't understand is the Patriots are now $20 million under the cap.

Who doesn't understand this? It has been mentioned several times in this thread and others.