Pat' off season and next year (1 Viewer)

[Boston]

Here's an article about some RB and DBack prospects that could be on the Pats wish list:

http://www.patriots.com/news/index.cfm?ac=...d=15911&pcid=46

 

[nerangers]

Mitchell agrees

The Patriots have agreed to terms on a contract with safety Mel Mitchell. For more on Mitchell, here is a short piece in Saturday's Boston Globe Patriots make a special move by adding safety Mitchell.

The move won't turn many heads, but Mitchell is the type of player who could vie for a spot on the 45-man game-day roster because of his special teams prowess.

He enters his fifth season in 2006 and spent the first four years of his career with the Saints. He has never been a starter, although was vying for a starting role in the 2003 preseason before suffering a season-ending knee injury.

Patriots | Team agrees to terms with M. Mitchell

Sat, 1 Apr 2006 06:21:50 -0800

Updating previous reports, the Boston Globe's Mike Reiss reports the New England Patriots have agreed to the terms of an undisclosed contract with free agent S Mel Mitchell (Saints).

Saints | Team trying to re-sign M. Mitchell; he's expected to sign in New England

Fri, 31 Mar 2006 18:39:06 -0800

ESPN.com's John Clayton reports the New Orleans Saints are talking with free agent S Mel Mitchell (Saints) about re-signing, but he is expected to accept an offer from the New England Patriots.

Patriots | Team talking to M. Mitchell; expected to sign him

Fri, 31 Mar 2006 18:36:05 -0800

ESPN.com's John Clayton reports the New England Patriots are talking with free agent S Mel Mitchell (Saints) and they are expected to sign him to a one-year contract next week. Mitchell is a great special teams player, but he is looking for an opportunity more than money in his deal.

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Contract update: G. Scott

Fri, 31 Mar 2006 18:34:01 -0800

New England Patriots S Guss Scott signed a one-year, $350,000 to remain with the team.

 

[nerangers]

Hmmm Ex-Patriot...and Shanahan is usually pretty good in picking RBs...did the Pats let him go too early?

Broncos | Cobbs will get a long look in training camp

Fri, 31 Mar 2006 17:19:50 -0800

Jeff Legwold, of the Rocky Mountain News, reports Denver Broncos RB Cedric Cobbs will get a long look from the team in training camp. Despite spending 2005 on the practice squad, Cobbs has intrigued the Broncos. Head coach Mike Shanahan has already said: "Very talented, very talented. (He's) 235 pounds and looks skinny. (He's) a guy that we had ranked very high coming out in the draft. He looked very impressive on our scout team. He's got the ability to come in and compete."

 

[nerangers]

More on Neal:

March 31, 2006

Neal checks in

Give Patriots guard Stephen Neal credit for his honesty.

When reflecting on his first foray into unrestricted free agency, he admitted he had no idea what to expect. He also acknowledged the Patriots weren’t his first choice, and that money was a strong factor in his decision-making process.

It’s rare to hear such candor.

“To be honest with you, if I could be closer to California, that was going to be a big deal,” Neal, a San Diego native, told a group of reporters Thursday at Gillette Stadium. “But it didn’t work out that way. The Patriots were the best fit for me and I’m glad to be back.”

The 29-year-old Neal, who has started the last 30 regular-season games at right guard, confirmed that he visited with the Vikings, Bills and Dolphins during free agency. A scheduled trip to the Texans was cancelled at the last moment.

On the role of money in negotiations, Neal said “it is not the most important thing” but it’s “up there.”

Neal’s four-year deal is worth approximately $10.5 million. It included a $3.2 signing bonus, a workout bonus of $106,160 in 2006, and workout bonuses of $106,720 in each season from 2007-2009.

With Neal under contract through 2009, the Patriots now have five of their top seven linemen signed for multiple seasons: Matt Light (2010), Logan Mankins (2009), Nick Kaczur (2009) and Brandon Gorin (2007). Center Dan Koppen and center/guard Russ Hochstein have contracts that expire after 2006.

Asked about the role of continuity on the offensive line, Neal said the longer you play with teammates “you feel more comfortable and don’t have to say as much because you know what the other person will do.”

Neal said he learned a few different things from going through the free agent process, and one reflected positively on the Patriots.

“Everyone has a lot of respect for this organization,” he said.

 

[David Yudkin]

ESPN Insider is reporting the Pats are reportedly interested in Peerless Price.

 

[nerangers]

Just got done doing some reading on the Patriots message board. I am going to assume almost everything from yesterday was an April Fools joke...at least I hope so. The big one was the Patriots looking to trade Richard Seymour to the Lions. We all know that the Pats can not do a deal with him till one year passes from his last contract update. That would be in August.

 

[nerangers]

From Boston.com

Warren Q&A

Three years ago, the Patriots traded a sixth-round pick to move from the No. 14 selection in the first round to No. 13. The team then selected defensive end Ty Warren.

Warren (6-5, 300) has emerged as one of the team's more consistent players. He's started every regular-season game in each of the last two seasons, and is part of an all-first-round line that also includes end Richard Seymour (2001) and nose tackle Vince Wilfork (2004).

Warren, who was working out with noted strength coach Tom Shaw the last few months, has since relocated to Gillette Stadium for the Patriots' offseason program. He spoke with a few reporters during a break last week.

What are your thoughts on the team filling the leadership void left by Willie McGinest's departure?“First of all, it’s the nature of the business that people move around from year to year. Second of all, to follow up what Tedy [bruschi] said, there are some guys doing their best to step up and fill some of those roles of guys that left -- Tedy being one of them. Myself, I’m doing my best to step up. There are still leaders. Moving around is the nature of the game.”

What do you miss most with Willie?“He played right next to me. He was vital to my development, working side by side with him. He’s a good, experienced guy who has been around and had good leadership qualities.”

Is it a wake-up call when someone leaves?“It’s not. I think Willie kind of knew his situation and knew what was ahead for him. Nothing is forever. Like I said, moving around is the nature of the business. You just have to move on.”

Did it catch you by surprise?“He mentioned something to me, I think after we lost to Denver, that there might be a couple avenues he was going to have to travel. That was one of them.”

What did Willie do in the locker room?“The way he worked. He had a good work ethic, good leadership qualities. He took young guys like myself when I came in, and I’m sure guys before me, and he showed them how to work. He was a guy who was here early in the morning and left late.”

Does your role change? Do you look at yourself as a leader?

“Yeah, definitely. Going into my fourth year, I’m going to take it upon myself to be a bigger leader. I’m not going to be one of those vocal guys. I’m a guy who works hard and guys will see that and I’m going to lead by example.”

Is the offseason program different this year, or more of the same?“The same program is in place as far as lifting weights and running. You have your core guys, like Bruschi, and guys like that still here. Everything pretty much remains the same. For me, it’s just one of those deals ‘been there, done that’ and I’m just working even harder.”

After the Denver game, is there motivation to come back strong this year?“I think the thing about a lot of guys in this locker room, whether you’re successful and won the Super Bowl one year, you’re still looking back at it and saying ‘we could have won by more than three points. We skimmed by by three points.’ Or you lose to Denver this past year and you look at it and say ‘We could have done this, and we would have been better off.’ There are always guys in the locker room looking back and seeing things we could have done better.”

Where can you personally get better?“I think year to year, it’s just a progression you have to go through every year. As far as the continuity with all the guys around you and just guys working together and getting the communication. There are new faces every year, so guys just have to get used to working out together and communicating with each other. That comes in all season -- mini-camp, in passing camps and things like that.”

What is the difference between new coordinator Dean Pees and Eric Mangini?“I don’t think it will be much of a difference. Dean is a guy who has been around a couple years, he’s familiar with Coach Belichick’s system. I think things will pretty much remain the same. He’s no different from Bill in a sense, just looking at the nature of the way he acts and his character and things like that. I don’t think things will be any different. It’s still under the Bill Belichick tree.”

Have you spoken to Seymour? Last year, he had a contract situation? Do you expect him in here this year?“You have to talk to [the front office] about that. I really don’t know about that. As far as Seymour, I know he’s been doing good. I talked to him a couple times and he’s having a good time with his family now.”

EXTRA POINT: Free-agent long snapper Jon Condo talks about joining the Patriots in this article in the Pennsylvania-based Centre Daily Times. Condo said his signing in New England was a result of Bill Parcells recommending him highly to Parcells' son-in-law, Patriots vice president of player personnel Scott Pioli.

 

[jgb95]

Just got done doing some reading on the Patriots message board. I am going to assume almost everything from yesterday was an April Fools joke...at least I hope so. The big one was the Patriots looking to trade Richard Seymour to the Lions. We all know that the Pats can not do a deal with him till one year passes from his last contract update. That would be in August.

Is this a joke/ april fools prank?????

 

[Exile]

From KFFL:

Patriots | E. Warfield signedMon, 3 Apr 2006 14:12:08 -0700Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots have signed free agent CB Eric Warfield (Chiefs) to an undisclosed contract.

KC Homers...what can you tell me about him? Is my impression that despite being a long time starter he's been a bit of a disappointment accurate?

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Warfield officially signed

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 14:27:15 -0700

Updating previous reports, Patriots.com reports the New England Patriots have officially signed CB Eric Warfield. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Patriots | E. Warfield signed

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 14:12:08 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots have signed free agent CB Eric Warfield (Chiefs) to an undisclosed contract.

More on Warfield

Quick hits on free-agent cornerback Eric Warfield, who signed with the Patriots on Monday:

* 30 years old

* Enters ninth season in 2006, after spending the first eight years of his career with the Chiefs

* 6-feet, 200 pounds

* Played in 115 career games, with 77 starts

* Started 73 of the last 74 games in which he's played

* Has totaled 20 career interceptions

* Hails from Vicksburg, Mississippi

* Played in college at Nebraska

* Selected in the seventh round of the 1998 draft

* Has his own Web site at wdub44.com

* After being charged with his third offense of driving under the influence, wrote about his rehabilitation on his Web site



WHERE DOES HE FIT?: The team has Asante Samuel, Ellis Hobbs, Randall Gay, Chad Scott, Hank Poteat and Antwain Spann at cornerback. Samuel and Hobbs were starters at the end of the 2005 season. Warfield will be in contention for a starting role, and projects to be one of the team's top 3-4 corners at this time.

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Team sending Seely to meet with Huston

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 14:13:28 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots are sending special teams coach Brad Seely to visit with Ohio State PK Josh Huston next week. "I'm excited about the opportunity to work out for Coach Seely," Huston said from Ohio State's campus. "Having the chance to possibly kick for the Patriots would be a dream come true." Huston indicated the workout is scheduled for Monday, April 10.

 

[Bri]

Patriots | Warfield officially signed

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 14:27:15 -0700

Updating previous reports, Patriots.com reports the New England Patriots have officially signed CB Eric Warfield. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Patriots | E. Warfield signed

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 14:12:08 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots have signed free agent CB Eric Warfield (Chiefs) to an undisclosed contract.

saw this on NFL Network. I sure hope he's better than their pass defense has ranked in recent years

 

[Bri]

Patriots | Team sending Seely to meet with Huston

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 14:13:28 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots are sending special teams coach Brad Seely to visit with Ohio State PK Josh Huston next week. "I'm excited about the opportunity to work out for Coach Seely," Huston said from Ohio State's campus. "Having the chance to possibly kick for the Patriots would be a dream come true." Huston indicated the workout is scheduled for Monday, April 10.

We need a kickoff specialist because Vandy is too busy to build up his strength in the weightroom so he can kickoff. Are any soccer guys available?

 

[Borat]

Patriots | Team sending Seely to meet with Huston

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 14:13:28 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots are sending special teams coach Brad Seely to visit with Ohio State PK Josh Huston next week. "I'm excited about the opportunity to work out for Coach Seely," Huston said from Ohio State's campus. "Having the chance to possibly kick for the Patriots would be a dream come true." Huston indicated the workout is scheduled for Monday, April 10.

We need a kickoff specialist because Vandy is too busy to build up his strength in the weightroom so he can kickoff. Are any soccer guys available?

Um... what? When the hell did we sign Vanderjagt?

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Team sending Seely to meet with Huston

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 14:13:28 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots are sending special teams coach Brad Seely to visit with Ohio State PK Josh Huston next week. "I'm excited about the opportunity to work out for Coach Seely," Huston said from Ohio State's campus. "Having the chance to possibly kick for the Patriots would be a dream come true." Huston indicated the workout is scheduled for Monday, April 10.

More on Houston:Huston a solution?

Who will replace Adam Vinatieri?

It’s one of the more prevalent questions for the New England Patriots at this time. Next week, special teams coach Brad Seely is scheduled to take an up-close look at a potential candidate -- Ohio State’s Josh Huston.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to work out for Coach Seely,” Huston said from Ohio State’s campus. “Having the chance to possibly kick for the Patriots would be a dream come true.”

Huston, who the Pro Football Weekly draft guide rates as the top college kicker eligible to be drafted, indicated the workout is scheduled for Monday, April 10.

While Patriots coaches and scouts will ultimately work out hundreds of prospects leading up to the NFL draft (April 29-30), it’s difficult to put a quantifiable value on what a workout actually means. In one respect, it could eliminate a player from the team’s draft board. In another respect, it could enhance a player’s stock.

Perhaps the best way to judge a workout is that the Patriots still retain some level of interest in the player, and are seeking more information.

In Huston, they will be looking at a player who might be uniquely qualified to fill the big shoes left by Vinatieri’s departure. In 2005, Huston replaced one of the most popular kickers in Ohio State history, Mike Nugent (Jets, 2nd round in 2005). He said there was rarely a day that went by without being asked “How will you fill Mike’s shoes?”

Huston was 22-of-28 on field goals in 2005, going 17-of-18 inside 40 yards. He was 5-of-10 outside of 40 yards and had two field goals blocked. Of his 70 kickoffs, 49 went for touchbacks, an indication that he has a powerful leg (note: college kickoffs are from the 35-yard line, not the 30 like the NFL).

“I pride myself on having a decent-sized leg,” said Huston, who red-shirted in 2000 and waited behind Nugent before becoming the Buckeyes’ full-time kicker in 2005. “In the end, I think any kicker would want to be known as Adam is known, as a clutch kicker, that when the game is on the line you know it’s good. The percentages are nice, but I think everyone wants to be that clutch guy.”

Huston said it would be a bonus to be drafted, but he also understands being a kicker is different than most other positions. Where there are 160 starting jobs available for offensive linemen, there are only 32 for kickers.

When the 2005 season ended, Huston recalled meeting with his agent, Jeffrey Chilcoat, to talk about NFL teams that might be seeking kickers.

“We had a list of all teams and a grade on what their needs would be -- ‘A’ would mean they need a kicker next year, ‘F’ would be that they have a guy, a veteran free agent,” Huston said. “I remember when he had Indianapolis and New England as an ‘A’ that I was surprised. Both teams had two of the best kickers in the game. But that’s when Jeff told me they were both free agents and they might not be back with their teams. I was surprised that it happened that way.”

Huston, who used to caddy for current Patriots linebacker Mike Vrabel at a Columbus-area golf course, said he’s a big Red Sox fan. Asked to envision what it might be like trying to fill the role held by Adam Vinatieri the last 10 seasons, he compared it to his experience at Ohio State.

“Mike was one of the best kickers to ever come out of Ohio State,” he said. “Considering Adam is one of the top kickers ever, it would be a lot of pressure. But I also think it would be a lot of fun.”

 

[Bri]

Patriots | Team sending Seely to meet with Huston

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 14:13:28 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots are sending special teams coach Brad Seely to visit with Ohio State PK Josh Huston next week. "I'm excited about the opportunity to work out for Coach Seely," Huston said from Ohio State's campus. "Having the chance to possibly kick for the Patriots would be a dream come true." Huston indicated the workout is scheduled for Monday, April 10.

We need a kickoff specialist because Vandy is too busy to build up his strength in the weightroom so he can kickoff. Are any soccer guys available?

Um... what? When the hell did we sign Vanderjagt?

overtired...long day, Pats didn't? oh well sorry

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Team sending Seely to meet with Huston

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 14:13:28 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots are sending special teams coach Brad Seely to visit with Ohio State PK Josh Huston next week. "I'm excited about the opportunity to work out for Coach Seely," Huston said from Ohio State's campus. "Having the chance to possibly kick for the Patriots would be a dream come true." Huston indicated the workout is scheduled for Monday, April 10.

We need a kickoff specialist because Vandy is too busy to build up his strength in the weightroom so he can kickoff. Are any soccer guys available?

Um... what? When the hell did we sign Vanderjagt?

overtired...long day, Pats didn't? oh well sorry

No, Vanderjerk is playing for the Cowboys...Wonder what ever happened about Paul Edinger? I figured when they did not sign him and you didn't here them pursuing Josh Brown, that they would be getting a kicker in the draft. They do have extra third and fourth rounders. Could get great value in a kicker in this years draft.

 

[Bri]

Patriots | Team sending Seely to meet with Huston

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 14:13:28 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots are sending special teams coach Brad Seely to visit with Ohio State PK Josh Huston next week. "I'm excited about the opportunity to work out for Coach Seely," Huston said from Ohio State's campus. "Having the chance to possibly kick for the Patriots would be a dream come true." Huston indicated the workout is scheduled for Monday, April 10.

We need a kickoff specialist because Vandy is too busy to build up his strength in the weightroom so he can kickoff. Are any soccer guys available?

Um... what? When the hell did we sign Vanderjagt?

overtired...long day, Pats didn't? oh well sorry

No, Vanderjerk is playing for the Cowboys...

oh yeah, thanksI didn't like the kicker reviews I saw at draft sites. Lets just go for it every fourth down.

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Warfield officially signed

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 14:27:15 -0700

Updating previous reports, Patriots.com reports the New England Patriots have officially signed CB Eric Warfield. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Patriots | E. Warfield signed

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 14:12:08 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots have signed free agent CB Eric Warfield (Chiefs) to an undisclosed contract.

More on Warfield

Quick hits on free-agent cornerback Eric Warfield, who signed with the Patriots on Monday:

* 30 years old

* Enters ninth season in 2006, after spending the first eight years of his career with the Chiefs

* 6-feet, 200 pounds

* Played in 115 career games, with 77 starts

* Started 73 of the last 74 games in which he's played

* Has totaled 20 career interceptions

* Hails from Vicksburg, Mississippi

* Played in college at Nebraska

* Selected in the seventh round of the 1998 draft

* Has his own Web site at wdub44.com

* After being charged with his third offense of driving under the influence, wrote about his rehabilitation on his Web site



WHERE DOES HE FIT?: The team has Asante Samuel, Ellis Hobbs, Randall Gay, Chad Scott, Hank Poteat and Antwain Spann at cornerback. Samuel and Hobbs were starters at the end of the 2005 season. Warfield will be in contention for a starting role, and projects to be one of the team's top 3-4 corners at this time.

Also:Last season, the Nebraska product played in 11 games with 10 starts and set a single-game career high with 14 tackles (12 solo) against Oakland on Nov. 6, 2005. He also recorded his third career interception return for a touchdown, a 57-yarder against Houston on Nov. 20, 2005.

Over a four-year period from 2001-04, the Vicksburg, Miss. native started all but one game for the Chiefs while recording exactly four interceptions each season. Warfield set a career high with 77 tackles in his first year as a full-time starter in 2001 and then matched the mark two seasons later.

 

[Bri]

WHERE DOES HE FIT?

More CBs the merrierAnything so long as Pittsburgh doesn't ever throw at will on us again

 

[nerangers]

With 11 picks in the draft, should the Pats bundle some of them to move up?

Found this link to determine Pick Value:

http://www.thehuddlereport.com/NickelPacka...evaluechart.htm

1st round - #21

2nd round - #52

3rd round - #75

3rd round - #86

4th round - #106

4th round - #118

5th round - #136

6th round - #191

6th round - #205

6th round - #206

7th round - #229

 

[Boston]

With 11 picks in the draft, should the Pats bundle some of them to move up?

Found this link to determine Pick Value:

http://www.thehuddlereport.com/NickelPacka...evaluechart.htm

1st round - #21

2nd round - #52

3rd round - #75

3rd round - #86

4th round - #106

4th round - #118

5th round - #136

6th round - #191

6th round - #205

6th round - #206

7th round - #229

One thing to remember...they can't deal those compensatory picks (#205 & #206).

 

[Boston]

With 11 picks in the draft, should the Pats bundle some of them to move up?

Found this link to determine Pick Value:

http://www.thehuddlereport.com/NickelPacka...evaluechart.htm

1st round - #21

2nd round - #52

3rd round - #75

3rd round - #86

4th round - #106

4th round - #118

5th round - #136

6th round - #191

6th round - #205

6th round - #206

7th round - #229

I wouldn't be surprised if they moved up, down or stayed pat. It's virtually impossible to figure out what they will do.As for Warfield...why not. He's by no means a stud but he can be a piece of the puzzle and definetly contribute. I'm sure the money is very team friendly as well. As last year showed you can never have enough CBs. Right now they have are starting to stock the position. They have Hobbs, Samuel, Gay, Warfield, Scott and Poteat. It will be interesting to see if either Scott or Gay make the move to safety. I expect another body to be added to the mix on draft day.

 

[SoloMatisse]

Hey Boston, any truth to the rumors that Lendale White is 'blowing' his draft position by slacking in some of these workouts so that he'll get taken by the Pats in the 21 hole? What do you make of this?

 

[Boston]

Hey Boston, any truth to the rumors that Lendale White is 'blowing' his draft position by slacking in some of these workouts so that he'll get taken by the Pats in the 21 hole? What do you make of this?

In all honesty if that was the case (and I don't think it is) that would mean White started this plot around November when he started getting out of shape. He's also had some questions about his attitude for awhile as well. Also, it really doesn't make sense trying to get drafted lower because that will cost him some pretty good coin.On the surface I don't see White as a BB type of player. BB will take chances on some attitude as long as the guy is committed to being a good football player. I'm not sure if that's the case with White. Yet, I can't say I'd be surprised if they took him because as we all know anything is possible with the Pats. Once they do their research they'll figure out if a guy fits what they're looking for.

 

[Borat]

With 11 picks in the draft, should the Pats bundle some of them to move up?

Not unless there's a specific player they have in mind (they moved up a few spots to take Daniel Graham and Ty Warren). The Patriots recognize one thing that very few other teams seem to: no matter how highly touted the prospect may be, in the end, he's really an unknown commodity - and, therefore, a risk. When you trade up in the draft, you get fewer rolls of the dice (you usually trade quantity of draft picks for quality of position in the draft), and plus you end up spending more to sign the player you traded up to draft.

 

[Boston]

With 11 picks in the draft, should the Pats bundle some of them to move up?

Not unless there's a specific player they have in mind (they moved up a few spots to take Daniel Graham and Ty Warren). The Patriots recognize one thing that very few other teams seem to: no matter how highly touted the prospect may be, in the end, he's really an unknown commodity - and, therefore, a risk. When you trade up in the draft, you get fewer rolls of the dice (you usually trade quantity of draft picks for quality of position in the draft), and plus you end up spending more to sign the player you traded up to draft.

They usually do a lot of wheeling and dealing during the middle rounds. Whether it's to move up for a player they like or to trade down to acquire more picks in that draft or a future draft they will deal. Yet, like you said it usually doesn't happen in the first (which probably means they'll do the exact opposite this year).

 

[Borat]

With 11 picks in the draft, should the Pats bundle some of them to move up?

Not unless there's a specific player they have in mind (they moved up a few spots to take Daniel Graham and Ty Warren). The Patriots recognize one thing that very few other teams seem to: no matter how highly touted the prospect may be, in the end, he's really an unknown commodity - and, therefore, a risk. When you trade up in the draft, you get fewer rolls of the dice (you usually trade quantity of draft picks for quality of position in the draft), and plus you end up spending more to sign the player you traded up to draft.

They usually do a lot of wheeling and dealing during the middle rounds. Whether it's to move up for a player they like or to trade down to acquire more picks in that draft or a future draft they will deal. Yet, like you said it usually doesn't happen in the first (which probably means they'll do the exact opposite this year).

Yeah, I probably should have been more clear, but I was referring almost exclusively to the 1st round. The Pats handle the middle rounds exceptionally well, particularly when it comes to trading a pick today for a better pick tomorrow.Remember that rumor a couple years back that they were going to trade two 1st round picks (turned out to be Wilfork and Watson) to get into the top 10 so they could take Sean Taylor? I'd say that non-move worked out pretty well. Although I highly doubt they were ever really discussing that...

 

[Boston]

With 11 picks in the draft, should the Pats bundle some of them to move up?

Not unless there's a specific player they have in mind (they moved up a few spots to take Daniel Graham and Ty Warren). The Patriots recognize one thing that very few other teams seem to: no matter how highly touted the prospect may be, in the end, he's really an unknown commodity - and, therefore, a risk. When you trade up in the draft, you get fewer rolls of the dice (you usually trade quantity of draft picks for quality of position in the draft), and plus you end up spending more to sign the player you traded up to draft.

They usually do a lot of wheeling and dealing during the middle rounds. Whether it's to move up for a player they like or to trade down to acquire more picks in that draft or a future draft they will deal. Yet, like you said it usually doesn't happen in the first (which probably means they'll do the exact opposite this year).

Yeah, I probably should have been more clear, but I was referring almost exclusively to the 1st round. The Pats handle the middle rounds exceptionally well, particularly when it comes to trading a pick today for a better pick tomorrow.Remember that rumor a couple years back that they were going to trade two 1st round picks (turned out to be Wilfork and Watson) to get into the top 10 so they could take Sean Taylor? I'd say that non-move worked out pretty well. Although I highly doubt they were ever really discussing that...

The other rumor was for Dwayne Robertson.

 

[ratbast]

The pats seem to list the guys they like, then take them when they think they should (or move up/down). We have seen them disregard what others think they should take with watson, hobbs etc.

If a kid has a motor and a brain, hes probably on their radar.

 

[Boston]

The pats seem to list the guys they like, then take them when they think they should (or move up/down). We have seen them disregard what others think they should take with watson, hobbs etc.

If a kid has a motor and a brain, hes probably on their radar.

Mankins is another example...no one saw that coming and it looks like it will end up being an excellent pick.

 

[ratbast]

The pats seem to list the guys they like, then take them when they think they should (or move up/down). We have seen them disregard what others think they should take with watson, hobbs etc.

If a kid has a motor and a brain, hes probably on their radar.

Mankins is another example...no one saw that coming and it looks like it will end up being an excellent pick.

They do mess up too. Bethel for example. But it shows that they probably prepare to take their guys without much care for Kiper etc.

 

[Borat]

They do mess up too. Bethel for example.

As big a disappointment as he's been, he has contributed to the team over the years. He did lead the AFC in kickoff return average as a rookie. And during the winning streak, against Indy, he had that kick return for a TD, then set up the game winning drive with another long return. He also had that huge catch against Seattle during the winning streak. Overall, he's been a disappointment, but he has made contributions from time to time, often in big spots.

 

[ratbast]

pardon if its already been posted:

http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/story/NFL_SC-RUMOR

"The Patriots signed three-year safety Guss Scott, but according to the Boston Globe, they cannot work out a new deal with Richard Seymour until August at the earliest. Under the rules of the new collective bargaining agreement, a player can't have his contract redone twice in the same 12-month period." -CBS Sportsline rumor mill

 

[ratbast]

They do mess up too. Bethel for example.

As big a disappointment as he's been, he has contributed to the team over the years. He did lead the AFC in kickoff return average as a rookie. And during the winning streak, against Indy, he had that kick return for a TD, then set up the game winning drive with another long return. He also had that huge catch against Seattle during the winning streak. Overall, he's been a disappointment, but he has made contributions from time to time, often in big spots.

...and he perhaps will take a larger role this year, but they reached for him and we all knew that, even then.

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Warfield will compete for starting role

Mon, 3 Apr 2006 17:48:32 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports New England Patriots CB Eric Warfield will compete for a starting cornerback role. At this time, he projects to be one of the Patriots' top three or four cornerbacks.

 

[nerangers]

They must have thought Warren was going to be drafted right before them. They traded away a 6th round pick to move up one spot to get him (14 to 13). I think the Pats handle the draft well. I was just thinking they do have a few extra picks.

Bri, I think there are three good rookie kickers in this years draft. I would not be surprised to see the pats use pick 118 or 136 to acquire one of them.

 

[Borat]

They do mess up too. Bethel for example.

As big a disappointment as he's been, he has contributed to the team over the years. He did lead the AFC in kickoff return average as a rookie. And during the winning streak, against Indy, he had that kick return for a TD, then set up the game winning drive with another long return. He also had that huge catch against Seattle during the winning streak. Overall, he's been a disappointment, but he has made contributions from time to time, often in big spots.

...and he perhaps will take a larger role this year, but they reached for him and we all knew that, even then.

I don't think that's a fair criticism, only because there are a number of guys the Pats have "reached" for who ended up meeting, and often exceeding, expectations. To say "we all know that," seems a little arrogant - we were also told that they reached for Deion Branch, Logan Mankins, and several others.

 

[Boston]

Bethel's problem is not physical skills. He just doesn't "get it." He's one of the few young players not to improve while in Foxboro. He's also had some attitude issues which have landed him on the bench...or resulted in not dressing. Last year he was an absolute non-factor at WR and his return game regressed. He was vastly outplayed by Hobbs in that department (bad playoff fumble not included). If he's not getting it done there he's pretty much garbage.

When the Pats drafted Bethel they were highly focused on adding speed to a team that was in transition from a slower veteran unit to a younger, faster unit. He was billed as the fastest player in that draft. He showed a boatload of promise his rookie year but has done little sense. It's too bad because he would be a huge help to them right now. There was talk he would be cut this offseason but it has not happened. It looks like he'll have one more chance to show BB and company he can contribute. Whether he takes advantage of that opportunity remains to be seen.

 

[Bri]

Bri, I think there are three good rookie kickers in this  years draft.  I would not be surprised to see the pats use pick 118 or 136 to acquire one of them.

no gems though. No one worth a risky top pick like the Jets and Raiders have done in year's past.

 

[ratbast]

They do mess up too. Bethel for example.

As big a disappointment as he's been, he has contributed to the team over the years. He did lead the AFC in kickoff return average as a rookie. And during the winning streak, against Indy, he had that kick return for a TD, then set up the game winning drive with another long return. He also had that huge catch against Seattle during the winning streak. Overall, he's been a disappointment, but he has made contributions from time to time, often in big spots.

...and he perhaps will take a larger role this year, but they reached for him and we all knew that, even then.

I don't think that's a fair criticism, only because there are a number of guys the Pats have "reached" for who ended up meeting, and often exceeding, expectations. To say "we all know that," seems a little arrogant - we were also told that they reached for Deion Branch, Logan Mankins, and several others.

"we all knew that" is what i said and meant but i understand what you are talking about.

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Wilson looking to make more plays in 2006 season

Tue, 4 Apr 2006 10:13:13 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports New England Patriots FS Eugene Wilson is expecting to make a lot more plays in the 2006 season. After the injury to SS Rodney Harrison (knee), Wilson played with six different safeties, seven total, over the course of the 2005 season and he claims it affected him in a few ways. Wilson said, "With Rodney there, I was able to go down in the box sometimes, or get deep sometimes, switch things up. Whereas, when he was down, we were more vanilla. I was usually deep and it seemed like a lot of things were going away from me. I didn't feel like I had too many chances at all this year. The interceptions weren't really there. I also knew I had to step it up more as a leader, more as a vocal guy. I don't feel like it was a bad season, but I felt like I would have liked to have done more."

More from Boston.com



Wilson wants more

Eugene Wilson entered the NFL in 2003 as a cornerback, but was switched to safety in his second game when the Patriots needed a replacement for Lawyer Milloy.

Except for a few games in the 2004 season -- one against the Ravens in which he started and earned a game ball -- Wilson has played all safety. Now entering his fourth year in the league, he considers himself a safety through and through.

“I don’t think about going back to cornerback,” Wilson said during a break from the team’s offseason program at Gillette Stadium on Tuesday. “I think it’s more of a thing where if I’m needed down there, I’m available. But I’d say I’m a safety.”

Wilson started every game in 2005, playing next to seven different safeties -- Rodney Harrison, Guss Scott, James Sanders, Arturo Freeman, Randall Gay, Michael Stone and Artrell Hawkins. When Harrison suffered a season-ending injury in Week 3, Wilson’s role changed.

“It affected me in a few different ways,” he said. “With Rodney there, I was able to go down in the box sometimes, or get deep sometimes, switch things up. Whereas, when he was down, we were more vanilla. I was usually deep and it seemed like a lot of things were going away from me. I didn’t feel like I had too many chances at all this year. The interceptions weren’t really there.

“I also knew I had to step it up more as a leader, more as a vocal guy. I don’t feel like it was a bad season, but I felt like I would have liked to have done more.”

Wilson finished with 64 total tackles after making 66 as a rookie and 67 in his second season. He totaled just one interception after snaring four each in 2003 and 2004.

“Coming into my fourth year, I’m going to be looking to make a lot more plays,” he said.

Wilson said one different aspect of the current offseason is that he isn’t rehabbing an injury. He was injured in both of the team’s Super Bowl victories, in 2003 and 2004. His clean bill of health allowed him to take two recent trips, to Las Vegas and Puerto Rico.

 

[nerangers]

Bri, I think there are three good rookie kickers in this  years draft.  I would not be surprised to see the pats use pick 118 or 136 to acquire one of them.

no gems though. No one worth a risky top pick like the Jets and Raiders have done in year's past.

Bri...I think there are a few Gems that will not cost you the High Pick...I still like

Stephen Gostkowski

Height: 6-2 | Weight: 200 | 40-Time: 5.05

Strengths:

Has a strong enough leg...Accurate and is money in the bank from 40-yards on in...Very productive...Consistent and extremely reliable...Was a four-year starter.

Weaknesses:

Was not put in many high-pressure situations...Never devoted his full attention to football...Probably doesn't have the range to kick 50+ yarders...Limited upside.

Notes:

Participated in the Senior Bowl...Was also a pitcher on the Memphis Tiger Baseball team...Finished up as the NCAA's "active" career leader in field goals and PATs.

There is also

Connor Hughes

Height: 5-10 | Weight: 172 | 40-Time: 4.77

Strengths:

Has a pretty strong leg with range beyond 50 yards...Was very reliable and consistent...Doesn't miss the short ones...Experienced and a four-year starter.

Weaknesses:

Accuracy beyond 40 yards gets a little dodgy...Mechanics on longer kicks change for the worse...Is not very big...Probably won't be able to kick-off in the pros.

Notes:

Career long is a 50-yarder which he attained five times...Went 66 for 79 (84%) in his career on field goals...A solid player who makes the kicks he is supposed to.

Josh Huston

Height: 6-1 | Weight: 195 | 40-Time: 4.97

Strengths:

Has a very strong leg...Has range up to and beyond 50-yards...Has experience in bad weather...Versatile and can also punt...Should be a excellent kick-off guy.

Weaknesses:

Has only one year of major experience...Very inconsistant and only hit 66% (25 of 38) for his career on field goals...Missed on a lot of his long attempts...Durability.

Notes:

Missed parts of 2000 and 2002 campaigns due to injuries and was granted a rare sixth year of eligibilty by the NCAA...Took over for the great Mike Nugent in 2005.

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Contract update: Warfield

Tue, 4 Apr 2006 13:28:59 -0700

New England Patriots CB Eric Warfield signed a two-year contract with base salaries of $710,000 (2006) and $720,000 (2007).

More on Warfield from Boston.com

Warfield's words

New Patriots cornerback Eric Warfield spent his first day in the team's workout program on Tuesday, and spoke candidly about his past. Warfield has three DUI's, and was asked how he knows there won't be a fourth.

“Last year, I checked myself into a rehab center and stayed there. I now attend AA meetings twice a week and meet with counselors week after week, so I’ve pretty much set my life up to where I’m not in any position to go out to drink, I’m not in any position to go out and put myself in position to get caught up like that any more," he said.

"It’s a day to day thing. You can’t say you’re completely done. I just know today that I haven’t done anything bad as far as drinking, or made plans to go out and drink. I just take it one day at a time and hopefully I can keep it that way.”

As for what appeals to him about the Patriots, Warfield said it's the team's system.

“It's pretty much the way that with certain personnel, you can just fit them in and it seems like the guy has been there for so long," he said. "When you see Ty Law go down and Asante Samuel came in and did an excellent job to keep that side of the defense going. Just the way they place personnel throughout the offense and the defense. You have two defensive guys that play on offense –- [Mike] Vrabel at tight end and [Richard] Seymour at [fullback]. They utilize guys to their advantage and make them work within the system. I just like how everything in this system seems to work out.”

Warfield covered a variety of subjects, from where he fits on the Patriots, to his time with the Chiefs, to his attempts to put his past off-the-field issues behind him.

 

[nerangers]

from PFW: Full Article, Click here

Hey PFW I read your stuff every week. I have two questions regarding the secondary. I read the "possibilities at 21 running backs and defensive backs" article and saw that the Patriots are interested in Rich Marshall from Fresno State. From what I hear he's tough and a playmaker, but is he fast/quick? I did not watch any of his college films so I didn’t know if any of the 3 INTs for TDs were a result of blocking by the defense or whether he just outran everybody. My 2nd question is why haven’t the Pats pursued Charles Woodson yet? Woodson, although his past attitudes is less than favorable, is still an upgrade over Samuel and Gay.

Andy notHart

Marshall is very quick for a cornerback. He’s probably the most complete corner in the draft. He led the Bulldogs in tackles last year, so that shows how physical he is. His two interceptions of 100 and 75 yards were straight speed. He picked off the ball and he was gone. He also returned kicks in college, so that tells you what kind of game-breaker he is. Some people may not know a lot about him but when you break Marshall down on tape and compare him to the other cornerbacks in this draft, he’s at the top of the list.

As for Woodson, there is a good explanation for why the Patriots haven’t shown any interest in him. It’s because he’s one of the most overrated players in the NFL and his asking price is ridiculous. I’m sure some team will break down and pay him a lot of money but I doubt it will be a team coached by Bill Belichick.

-Tom Casale

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Warfield said Patriots' system appeals to him

Tue, 4 Apr 2006 16:53:41 -0700

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports New England Patriots CB Eric Warfield said the team's system appeals to him. Warfield added, "It's pretty much the way that with certain personnel, you can just fit them in and it seems like the guy has been there for so long." He also said, "They utilize guys to their advantage and make them work within the system. I just like how everything in this system seems to work out."

Patriots | Mitchell officially signed

Tue, 4 Apr 2006 16:44:52 -0700

Patriots.com reports the New England Patriots have officially signed free agent S Mel Mitchell (Saints) to an undisclosed contract.

Patriots | Team attends T. Palmer Pro Day workout

Tue, 4 Apr 2006 16:31:18 -0700

The New England Patriots were in attendance at Missouri OL Tony Palmer's Pro Day workout Tuesday, April 4.

NFL | T. Palmer has a workout for several NFL teams

Tue, 4 Apr 2006 16:15:16 -0700

Missouri OL Tony Palmer had a second Pro Day workout Tuesday, April 4, in front of several NFL teams. He weighed in at 330 pounds and he did 41 bench press reps. His stock appears to be rising on team's draft boards.

 

[KGB]

The pats seem to list the guys they like, then take them when they think they should (or move up/down). We have seen them disregard what others think they should take with watson, hobbs etc.

If a kid has a motor and a brain, hes probably on their radar.

Mankins is another example...no one saw that coming and it looks like it will end up being an excellent pick.

They do mess up too. Bethel for example. But it shows that they probably prepare to take their guys without much care for Kiper etc.

whoa way too early to tell on that

 

[ratbast]

The pats seem to list the guys they like, then take them when they think they should (or move up/down). We have seen them disregard what others think they should take with watson, hobbs etc.

If a kid has a motor and a brain, hes probably on their radar.

Mankins is another example...no one saw that coming and it looks like it will end up being an excellent pick.

They do mess up too. Bethel for example. But it shows that they probably prepare to take their guys without much care for Kiper etc.

whoa way too early to tell on that

Really? the 45th pick in the 2003 draft? Im not saying he doesnt belong as thats not the premise of this sub-discussion, just that he was a BIG reach. Hindsight is 20/20 but i remember not being able to find him in my draft guide. Boldin was one WR drafted after him, Burelson another.

 

[KGB]

The pats seem to list the guys they like, then take them when they think they should (or move up/down). We have seen them disregard what others think they should take with watson, hobbs etc.

If a kid has a motor and a brain, hes probably on their radar.

Mankins is another example...no one saw that coming and it looks like it will end up being an excellent pick.

They do mess up too. Bethel for example. But it shows that they probably prepare to take their guys without much care for Kiper etc.

whoa way too early to tell on that

Really? the 45th pick in the 2003 draft? Im not saying he doesnt belong as thats not the premise of this sub-discussion, just that he was a BIG reach. Hindsight is 20/20 but i remember not being able to find him in my draft guide. Boldin was one WR drafted after him, Burelson another.

The cards had to get lucky once in 50 years, no?