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Pat' off season and next year (1 Viewer)

I didn't include Willie where he was cut...he is neither a restricted or unrestricted FA for the Pats anymore.  The rest are.
Ah...I didn't realize that was the criteria for your list. Still, not re-signing McGinnest would be a bigger loss, IMO, than half the players on that list. Thus, my surprise that you didn't include him. /shrug
Willie is another player that would like to play for the Pats, and the Pats would like him to play for them. It is the price tag that is keeping the two parties apart. This is the same thing that is going on with David Givens...He will get more money somewhere else than the Patriots are willing to pony up for.I am thinking that Flutie and Evans will be resigned.

 
Willie is another player that would like to play for the Pats, and the Pats would like him to play for them. It is the price tag that is keeping the two parties apart. This is the same thing that is going on with David Givens...He will get more money somewhere else than the Patriots are willing to pony up for.

I am thinking that Flutie and Evans will be resigned.
Yeah, I am afraid you might be right, although I hold out a little more hope for Willie than I do for Givens at this point. The market is ripe for Givens to break the bank as the #1 WR in free agency. McGinnest is old enough that other teams might not be willing to go so high with offers and the Pats might be able to come close enough to get him back. We'll see.Bringing back Flutie and Evans is fine (assuming it's for the right money), but I wouldn't be upset with losing either.

 
Willie is another player that would like to play for the Pats, and the Pats would like him to play for them.  It is the price tag that is keeping the two parties apart.  This is the same thing that is going on with David Givens...He will get more money somewhere else than the Patriots are willing to pony up for.

I am thinking that Flutie and Evans will be resigned.
Yeah, I am afraid you might be right, although I hold out a little more hope for Willie than I do for Givens at this point. The market is ripe for Givens to break the bank as the #1 WR in free agency. McGinnest is old enough that other teams might not be willing to go so high with offers and the Pats might be able to come close enough to get him back. We'll see.Bringing back Flutie and Evans is fine (assuming it's for the right money), but I wouldn't be upset with losing either.
Was just reading this over at the Boston Herald Pats go to market: Givens set to talk with DolphinsGivens is going to be tough to retain...but it does look like the Pats will need to lock down Branch this year. Let's hope Givens does not break the bank somewhere, because Branch is going to want a better offer.

With regards to Willie: McGinest’s first choice is to return to the Pats and he’ll likely take less to stay. But if another team blows him away -- Dallas? Cleveland? -- McGinest’s loyalty could be tested.

What are the odds that maybe Lawyer Milloy's services could be brought back? Too much bad blood there?

As for players the Pats might be pursuing, Bill Belichick never has been a huge Day 1 free agency player. Based on history, it’s hard to imagine Belichick and Scott Pioli burning the phone lines early this morning.
So have I been wasting my day waiting on them to make some moves??? LOL :D

 
I also been thinking if Longwell goes to the Vikings, GB might really start pursuing Adam V. GB and the Vikes have the most cap money to spend.

Vikings | Team scheduled to meet with Longwell

Sat, 11 Mar 2006 13:26:52 -0800

Sean Jensen, of the Pioneer Press, reports the Minnesota Vikings are scheduled to meet with free agent PK Ryan Longwell (Packers) Saturday, March 11.

Edited: LONGWELL WAS SIGNED BY THE VIKINGS...one less team going after ADAM!

Buccaneers | Bryant re-signed

Sat, 11 Mar 2006 15:57:02 -0800

Stephen F. Holder, of the St. Petersburg Times, reports the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have re-signed free agent PK Matt Bryant (Buccaneers) to an undisclosed contract.

Vikings and Bucs off the list of needing kickers...Lets hope GB doesn't get Adam V!!!

 
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Bills | Team in talks with A. Davis

Sat, 11 Mar 2006 17:58:29 -0800

WGR550.com reports the Buffalo Bills are in talks with free agent WR Andre' Davis (Patriots). Davis is discussing the franchise's offer with his wife, but added he does not have any other visits planned.

Bills | Contract update: A. Davis

Sun, 12 Mar 2006 15:05:27 -0800

ESPN.com's John Clayton reports Buffalo Bills WR Andre' Davis signed a one-year, $1.3 million contract to join the Bills. The deal included a $800,000 base salary and a $500,00 signing bonus.

 
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Believe me. I'm a 'In Bill/Scott we Trust' kind of guy. However, I hate sitting here watching all this free agent activity and seeing nothing by the Pats. We're supposedly well under the cap. At least sign Seymour/Branch to deals. Give me something.

 
Believe me. I'm a 'In Bill/Scott we Trust' kind of guy. However, I hate sitting here watching all this free agent activity and seeing nothing by the Pats. We're supposedly well under the cap. At least sign Seymour/Branch to deals. Give me something.
They could not make a bigger and better move this offseason than resigning Seymour. That would top any other transaction they could be involved in.
 
Believe me.  I'm a 'In Bill/Scott we Trust' kind of guy.  However, I hate sitting here watching all this free agent activity and seeing nothing by the Pats.  We're supposedly well under the cap.  At least sign Seymour/Branch to deals.  Give me something.
They could not make a bigger and better move this offseason than resigning Seymour. That would top any other transaction they could be involved in.
Agreed. Now do it!
 
Believe me.  I'm a 'In Bill/Scott we Trust' kind of guy.  However, I hate sitting here watching all this free agent activity and seeing nothing by the Pats.  We're supposedly well under the cap.  At least sign Seymour/Branch to deals.  Give me something.
They could not make a bigger and better move this offseason than resigning Seymour. That would top any other transaction they could be involved in.
Agreed. Now do it!
Agreed. Each day that passess his value goes up. He proved last year that he's the foundation of that defense. Add in the fact he's just hitting his prime and he needs to be locked up...even if it's for more than they'd like to spend. He's too good and too important to lose. Players like him do not grow on trees and are incredibly difficult to find.
 
Believe me.  I'm a 'In Bill/Scott we Trust' kind of guy.  However, I hate sitting here watching all this free agent activity and seeing nothing by the Pats.  We're supposedly well under the cap.  At least sign Seymour/Branch to deals.  Give me something.
They could not make a bigger and better move this offseason than resigning Seymour. That would top any other transaction they could be involved in.
Agreed. Now do it!
Agreed. Each day that passess his value goes up. He proved last year that he's the foundation of that defense. Add in the fact he's just hitting his prime and he needs to be locked up...even if it's for more than they'd like to spend. He's too good and too important to lose. Players like him do not grow on trees and are incredibly difficult to find.
I can't imagine the Patriots not getting this done. Also the fact that they are most likely going to let Givens walk, makes you feel that they will get it done with Branch.
 
Believe me.  I'm a 'In Bill/Scott we Trust' kind of guy.  However, I hate sitting here watching all this free agent activity and seeing nothing by the Pats.  We're supposedly well under the cap.  At least sign Seymour/Branch to deals.  Give me something.
They could not make a bigger and better move this offseason than resigning Seymour. That would top any other transaction they could be involved in.
Agreed. Now do it!
Agreed. Each day that passess his value goes up. He proved last year that he's the foundation of that defense. Add in the fact he's just hitting his prime and he needs to be locked up...even if it's for more than they'd like to spend. He's too good and too important to lose. Players like him do not grow on trees and are incredibly difficult to find.
I can't imagine the Patriots not getting this done. Also the fact that they are most likely going to let Givens walk, makes you feel that they will get it done with Branch.
That's my point. Just get it done. Think about that D-Line. It could be Seymour/Wilfork/Warren for years.
 
Believe me.  I'm a 'In Bill/Scott we Trust' kind of guy.  However, I hate sitting here watching all this free agent activity and seeing nothing by the Pats.  We're supposedly well under the cap.  At least sign Seymour/Branch to deals.  Give me something.
They could not make a bigger and better move this offseason than resigning Seymour. That would top any other transaction they could be involved in.
Agreed. Now do it!
Agreed. Each day that passess his value goes up. He proved last year that he's the foundation of that defense. Add in the fact he's just hitting his prime and he needs to be locked up...even if it's for more than they'd like to spend. He's too good and too important to lose. Players like him do not grow on trees and are incredibly difficult to find.
I can't imagine the Patriots not getting this done. Also the fact that they are most likely going to let Givens walk, makes you feel that they will get it done with Branch.
If they can extend Seymour, Branch, Koppen and Samuel this offseason that would be huge. You'd be locking up a solid core of young players who have all been big time contributors as well as having a lot of football left to play. If they wait on any of these four they will be paying a lot more (at differing levels depending on the player) to keep them next year because all four will be highly sought after on the free agent market.
 
Redskins | Fauria signed

Sun, 12 Mar 2006 18:00:59 -0800

Redskins.com reports the Washington Redskins have signed free agent TE Christian Fauria (Patriots) to an undisclosed contract.

Jaguars | T. Dwight visits team

Sun, 12 Mar 2006 19:22:02 -0800

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports free agent WR Tim Dwight (Patriots) visited with the Jacksonville Jaguars over the weekend, according to his agent Jack Bechta.

Texans | Givens too expensive to sign?

Sun, 12 Mar 2006 17:39:04 -0800

John McClain, of the Houston Chronicle, reports the Houston Texans spent Sunday, March 12, meeting with free agent WR David Givens (Patriots). Givens reportedly wants $25 million over five years and that's out of the Texans' price range. Late Saturday night, March 11, the Texans said Boston-based agent Brad Blank informed them that Givens was going to re-sign with the New England Patriots. This morning, Givens came to Houston as scheduled, told the Texans there had been some miscommunication and that he was definitely interested. They still haven't given up on him, but the price is too high.

 
As of Monday Morning:

kicker Adam Vinatieri

offensive tackle Tom Ashworth - Visits reported

receiver Troy Brown,

linebacker Matt Chatham - Visits reported

receiver Andre’ Davis - Signed by Buffalo

receiver Tim Dwight

running back Heath Evans

tight end Christian Fauria - Signed by Washington

quarterback Doug Flutie

receiver David Givens - Visits reported

offensive guard Stephen Neal

cornerback Chad Scott

safety Michael Stone

I'll Add Willie as well. No reports of any takers yet!

No FA signings by the Pats either...

 
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Believe me. I'm a 'In Bill/Scott we Trust' kind of guy. However, I hate sitting here watching all this free agent activity and seeing nothing by the Pats. We're supposedly well under the cap. At least sign Seymour/Branch to deals. Give me something.
Amen.
 
From Rotoworld:

Willie McGinest - LB - Patriots

The Patriots haven't contacted Willie McGinest since releasing him.

McGinest expects to play elsewhere in 2006, although teams have hardly been beating down his door. ESPN.com's Len Pasquarelli wrote a 1,500-word favor for Willie's agent Monday to let suitors know he won't take less money to remain a Patriot. We'll see. Mar. 13 - 3:31 pm et
I'm disappointed they haven't even contacted him. Fiscal responsibility is one thing, but give the guy a call to show you're at least interested.
 
Patriots | Thin at WR

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 12:14:19 -0800

The Boston Globe reports the New England Patriots only have two wide receivers - WRs Deion Branch and Bethel Johnson - from the 2005 season currently under contract.

Givens still w/ Titans

Receiver David Givens' visit to the Titans will be extended into Tuesday, according to his agent, Brad Blank.

Givens was scheduled to tour Nashville on Monday night to get a feel for the city. Blank said the plan was for he and Givens to reconvene Tuesday morning to discuss his contract options.

Givens visited the Dolphins on Saturday and the Texans on Sunday. The Titans and Texans have already made contract offers. New England Cable News reported on Sunday night that the Patriots have also made an offer.

The Dolphins are reportedly dropping out of the bidding.

Patriots | Team was targeting Jurevicius

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 12:14:52 -0800

The Boston Globe reports the New England Patriots had targeted WR Joe Jurevicius in free agency, but he signed a four-year, $10 million contract with the Cleveland Browns.

Titans | Offer made to Givens

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 12:13:45 -0800

The Boston Globe reports the Tennessee Titans have made a formal contract offer to free agent WR David Givens (Patriots).

Chargers | Inquiring about Givens

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 12:12:13 -0800

The Boston Globe reports the San Diego Chargers have inquired about meeting with free agent WR David Givens (Patriots), according to Givens' agent, Brad Blank.

 
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Patriots | Krug released

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 13:47:23 -0800

Patriots.com reports the New England Patriots have released OG Ryan Krug.

Patriots | C. Brown released

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 13:46:21 -0800

Patriots.com reports the New England Patriots have released LB Chad Brown.

 
Buccaneers | Agent thinks Ashworth could be good fit

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 15:56:33 -0800

Ira Kaufman, of the Tampa Tribune, reports the agent for free agent OT Tom Ashworth (Patriots) thinks the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would be a good destination for his client. "I think Tampa would be a good fit, a really good fit for Tom," said Ashworth's agent, Thomas H. Mills. "They have not given me a proposal, but I think the Bucs do have some money to spend for the right free agents."

 
From Patriots.com

"As of right now, the Patriots are losing more players than they are bringing in but that won’t be the case for much longer. Bill Belichick and Scott Pioli have a certain way they like to go about free agency and unless there’s a player they’re really targeting, they will sit back while teams spend enormous amounts of money early on in the process. It may not be exciting but it’s the Patriots way and based on the team’s recent success, it’s hard to argue with how they do things around here. "

Receiver Andre’ Davis, who caught nine passes in a limited role last year with the Patriots signed with AFC East rival Buffalo. Davis reportedly signed a one-year deal worth $1.3 million. His signing may be a prelude to the departure of Eric Moulds – a player the Patriots could be interested in if he’s released.

 
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Jets | Team signs Chatham

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 18:19:28 -0800

Randy Lange, of the Bergen Record, reports the New York Jets have signed free agent LB Matt Chatham (Patriots) to a three-year contract. No financial terms were disclosed, but the contract was described by agent Paul Sheehy as a "hybrid" in which Chatham, who had four career starts in six seasons with New England, can cash in if he wins a starting LB job in head coach Eric Mangini's defense.

kicker Adam Vinatieri

offensive tackle Tom Ashworth - Possibly TB

receiver Troy Brown,

linebacker Matt Chatham - Signed by Jets

receiver Andre’ Davis - Signed by Buffalo

receiver Tim Dwight

running back Heath Evans

tight end Christian Fauria - Signed by Washington

quarterback Doug Flutie

receiver David Givens - Possibly Tenn

offensive guard Stephen Neal

cornerback Chad Scott

safety Michael Stone

LB Willie McGinest released

OG Ryan Krug released

LB Chad Brown released

 
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per Boston Herald Full Article

If Longwell’s worth $2 million a season with a $3 million signing bonus, then Vinatieri would seem to be looking at something between $2.5 million and $3 million annually.

According to league sources, only three teams in the market for a kicker can afford that price tag: the Patriots, Dallas Cowboys and Green Packers.

“They’re basically a love triangle right now, and they’ve all got something going for them,” said an agent representing a free agent kicker not named Vinatieri. “The best cap situation is Green Bay. The best personal situation would be New England. And the best kicking conditions are in Dallas.”

Word out of Green Bay last night was that the Packers weren’t prepared to offer Vinatieri enough to convince him to leave the Patriots.

In Dallas, the Cowboys have never spent $1 million in a season on a kicker, let alone $3 million. But owner Jerry Jones is on record saying that the team will sign a veteran kicker after missed field goals cost the Cowboys a playoff berth in 2005. And there’s no underestimating the pull of head coach Bill Parcells, who gave Vinatieri his start as an undrafted free agent in New England a decade ago.

Two teams that appear to be out of the hunt are Atlanta and Indianapolis.

Ken Harris represents free agent Paul Edinger, a potential replacement for Vinatieri, since he kicked well outdoors in Chicago for five years before moving to Minnesota last season. The Patriots and Harris have spoken, but tellingly, the team did not initiate contact with the kicker.

 
Patriots | T. Brown not ruling out retirement

Mon, 13 Mar 2006 21:47:13 -0800

Sean McDowell, of 13 Sports (WOWK), reports free agent WR Troy Brown (Patriots) told 13 Sports in an exclusive interview that he isn't ruling out retiring from the National Football League. "I leave all my doors open," Brown told 13 Sports. "I don't sweat it anymore. Whatever happens, happens. If I decide to go back, I decide to go back." Brown said that friends from other teams have asked him to join them in other cities, but he said the New England Patriots are his team of preference.

 
As good as gone -- McGinest to visit Browns

By John Tomase

Tuesday, March 14, 2006 - Updated: 05:49 AM EST

Linebacker Willie McGinest appears ready to begin life without the Patriots.

Having heard nothing from the Pats since they released him last week, McGinest will visit the Cleveland Browns today to start a process he believes will lead him out of New England. “There are a lot of great memories from all those seasons in New England,” McGinest told ESPN.com yesterday, “but they’re called memories for a reason. I’ve still got some history to go out and make.”

McGinest may opt to make that history with the Browns, who are coached by former Patriots defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel. The two remain close.

A number of other teams are interested, with the New York Jets, Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins considered potential suitors. The Patriots cut McGinest rather than pay him a $3.5 million roster bonus. He stood to make at least $7 million next season.

The 12-year veteran was the first draft pick of the Kraft family in 1994 out of USC. He blossomed as a leader during the last five seasons, helping the Patriots to three Super Bowl titles. “Given what they did for me as a player and a person, I can’t be bitter, and I actually owe them a great deal, certainly,” McGinest told the Web site. “But at the end of the day, they’re the ones who put me out into free agency, right? I’ll never close the door. But since they cut me, they haven’t called at all to see how we might be able to (construct) a contract to bring me back, and I don’t see it happening. So it looks like they’re moving ahead without me. And I’m moving forward, too.”

McGinest relishes the idea of helping a new club scale heights previously reached by the Patriots, even if it means leaving New England. “Part of what excites me, really, is the chance to maybe help a team and help other players achieve some of their goals,” McGinest said. “You name it, and I’ve pretty much been there and done that. At this point in my career, the individual (accomplishments) aren’t as important, not anymore. I’m developed. I’m primed. I’m a team guy who knows his role. If that role is with a new team, well, so be it.”

 
-- Titans; Givens Agree in Principle to Deal --

Tue Mar 14, 2006 --from FFMastermind.com

The Nashville Tennessean reports the Titans and WR David Givens have agreed on money. They've agreed the former Patriots star could provide a huge boost to the team's sagging receiving corps. All that's left now is for Givens, one of the top players in free agency, to give his final nod of approval to Tennessee's contract offer, something the Titans, the player's agent — and Givens — expect to happen today. The two sides agreed in principle to a five-year deal yesterday. "I am definitely leaning toward the Titans, you can say that,'' Givens said last night. "I had a good visit with the Coach (Jeff) Fisher and the rest of the coaches. I came in here exhausted from the last couple of days, but everything really went well. I like the system they have and the ideas that they have as far as utilizing me as a player. … They made me feel comfortable here. It seems like a good fit.'' Givens said he expects to make his decision official this morning after talking with his family and agent Brad Blank last night. Givens yesterday ruled out the Dolphins and Texans, two teams he visited over the weekend. After the Titans raised their offer by $500,000 yesterday, the two sides agreed on the major financial portions of the contract. The Titans plan on paying Givens a deal worth $24 million, substantially more than anyone else has offered him. The Patriots remain interested, but indications are they won't pay that kind of money. Givens, 25, yesterday took a physical, which is regularly done before a player signs a contract. After a busy day, he spent last night driving around Nashville "just to see what it's like.'' "It is a really nice city,'' said Givens, who played at Notre Dame. "I was pleasantly surprised.''

-- Chargers Too Late to Sign Givens? --

Tue Mar 14, 2006 --from FFMastermind.com

The San Diego Union-Tribune reports the Chargers signaled they are interested in spending some of the ample money they have under the salary cap, expressing interest in WR David Givens. Asked about Givens Monday, GM A.J. Smith confirmed, “We threw our hat into the ring.” Brad Blank, Givens' agent, said he heard from the Chargers on Sunday but had not spoken with them since. Givens has visited Miami and Houston and went to Tennessee Monday. “It's up to him to tell me he wants to go on,” Blank said. “But he's been to three cities. I think it's time to wrap it up. That's what I'm going to express to him when he calls me.”

 
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:cry: Given is a good guy. Best of luck to him.

The Boston.com article (not surprisingly I guess) gives it a slightly different spin:

By Jerome Solomon, Globe Staff | March 14, 2006

David Givens spent last night in Nashville, pondering his NFL future, as the Titans put a $24 million offer on the table attempting to persuade the Patriots' free agent wideout to make Tennessee his home for the next five years.

According to the Houston Chronicle, the Texans, whom Givens visited Sunday, were some $5.5 million behind the Titans' offer. Miami, which hosted Givens Saturday, the first day of the free agent signing period, had yet to make a serious offer. The Patriots apparently are waiting to see what Givens's best offer is before making a counter.

Givens spent time at the Titans' facility yesterday, even submitting to a physical, and was slated to tour the city last night. While the extended stay in the Music City would seem to indicate a lean toward signing with the Titans, Givens's agent, Brad Blank, said a decision has yet to be made.

''I think it's a good idea to spend time there, a place he has never really been, to see the city before deciding if that is where he wants to live," Blank said.

Givens is regarded by many to be the most desirable free agent receiver on the market, and the $4.8 million a year being offered by the Titans is more money than any available receiver has gotten to this point.

Pittsburgh's Antwaan Randle El and Cleveland's Antonio Bryant, considered to be in the same class as Givens, each relocated, with Randle El signing a seven-year, $31 million deal with Washington Sunday, while Bryant inked a four-year, $15 million deal with San Francisco yesterday.

Givens likely would be the Titans' No. 1 receiver, or at least on equal footing with Drew Bennett, who led the team last season with 58 receptions for 738 yards, making 10 starts in 13 games. His numbers are almost identical to those posted by Givens, who had a career-best 59 catches for 738 yards, also with 10 starts in 13 games.
There's nothing there that said they've agreed on the money just that the Titans have made their offer.
 
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:cry: Given is a good guy. Best of luck to him.

The Boston.com article (not surprisingly I guess) gives it a slightly different spin:

...

There's nothing there that said they've agreed on the money just that the Titans have made their offer.
He's as good as gone. Now, I'm hoping we can get some warm bodies at WR. Yikes!
 
"After the Titans raised their offer by $500,000 yesterday, the two sides agreed on the major financial portions of the contract."

Money doesn't seem to be an issue.

 
As a Pats fan I feel like I have a better chance of guessing what's going to happen on LOST than figuring out what they're up to this offseason. Obviously, like all Pats fans I have faith because the track record is so proven and patience is a virtue with them. I do understand they're waiting for the silly money period to end so they can use their 17 million in cap space on team friendly contracts as well as probably extending some of their own. Yet, who they are going to get right now is an absolute mystery. The federal government should conduct a study about preventing leaks on the Pats because they are the most leak proof organization in America (by the way the Red Sox are the most leak friendly).

 
I am guessing we are going to have to pony up to keep BRANCH if Givens gets this kind of money.

Titans | Givens lands five-year deal

Tue, 14 Mar 2006 10:05:11 -0800

ESPNews reports the Tennessee Titans have signed free agent WR David Givens (Patriots) to a five-year, $24 million deal.

kicker Adam Vinatieri

offensive tackle Tom Ashworth - Possibly TB

receiver Troy Brown,

linebacker Matt Chatham - Signed by Jets

receiver Andre’ Davis - Signed by Buffalo

receiver Tim Dwight

running back Heath Evans

tight end Christian Fauria - Signed by Washington

quarterback Doug Flutie

receiver David Givens - Signed by the Titans

offensive guard Stephen Neal

cornerback Chad Scott

safety Michael Stone

LB Willie McGinest released

OG Ryan Krug released

LB Chad Brown released

Givens is the fourth Patriots player to sign elsewhere in free agency, following receiver Andre' Davis (Bills), tight end Christian Fauria (Redskins) and linebacker Matt Chatham (Jets). Meanwhile, outside linebacker Willie McGinest is scheduled to visit the Browns today.

The Patriots haven't signed any free agents, and one line of thinking is that they're taking a patient approach while working in the background to sign what are expected to be rich extensions with defensive lineman Richard Seymour and receiver Deion Branch. The team generally likes to keep its free-agent intentions quiet, and is known only to have visited with free-agent offensive lineman Kevin Mawae.

 
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Free Agency is a one way street in New England

I found this quote in the Providence Journal pretty interesting, "Damien Woody, Bobby Hamilton, David Patten, Ted Washington, Lawyer Milloy, Ty Law, Tebucky Jones and Joe Andruzzi have all left the Patriots for more lucrative deals. Not a single one of them has played in a playoff game since departing the Pats. Nor will they ever enjoy the marketability in this region that they had before they left." Maybe Vinatieri should think about his chances of ever getting a ring again or being the hometown icon he is here. Look at Damien Woody and Lawyer Milloy, they chose money over another Super Bowl ring. Vinatieri could make that same mistake.

Why didn't the Pats try for Sam Madison...the Giants got a steal in my opinion (4 year 7.4 million dollar deal - 2 million in bonus).

I am also hoping with the thin WR market, the Pats make a move for Eric Moulds. I know Keyshawn is out there now as well as TO, but Moulds would be a great addition in my opinion.

 
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From Rotoworld:

Willie McGinest - LB - Patriots

The Patriots haven't contacted Willie McGinest since releasing him.

McGinest expects to play elsewhere in 2006, although teams have hardly been beating down his door. ESPN.com's Len Pasquarelli wrote a 1,500-word favor for Willie's agent Monday to let suitors know he won't take less money to remain a Patriot. We'll see. Mar. 13 - 3:31 pm et
I'm disappointed they haven't even contacted him. Fiscal responsibility is one thing, but give the guy a call to show you're at least interested.
John Tomase of the Boston Herald reports that Willie McGinest will visit the Cleveland Browns today to start a process he believes will lead him out of New England. A number of other teams are interested, with the New York Jets, Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins considered potential suitors.
 
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March 14, 2006

Neal visits Vikes

Free-agent offensive guard Stephen Neal took a free-agent visit with the Minnesota Vikings on Tuesday.

The Vikings could be looking to make a double-barreled splash at guard after having signed Seattle’s Steve Hutchinson, a transition player, to a monster offer sheet over the past weekend. Or Neal might be a backup plan should the Seahawks match the offer for Hutchinson.

The 6-foot-4, 305-pound Neal started in all 16 regular-season games in 2005, as well as both playoff contests. Suiting up at right guard, he played on a one-year, $1.43 million contract.

Neal was a championship wrestler at Cal State-Bakersfield and didn’t play football in college.

 
Let's hope this one does not pan out!!!!

Packers | Vinatieri to visit

Tue, 14 Mar 2006 16:14:37 -0800

Adam Schefter, of the NFL Network, reports the Green Bay Packers will host free agent PK Adam Vinatieri (Patriots) Friday, March 17.

Come on Pats...do right by Adam! Don't let GB dictate the going rate!

 
Givens is gone now, along with some other role players. Tough to see Dave go, but I guess you guys all saw this coming....I didnt want to face up to it myself. We are looking kindof thin at the 'out' position.....need some dependable possession guys and a legit field stretcher. Moulds? Keyshawn? Rookies?? Any good ideas??? I guess keeping the faith is the idea right now...

 
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Keyshawn?
What kind of relationship did he have with Belichick when they were on the Jets? Would be interesting to see them reunited.
I believe it was actually very good. There were definetly rumors of Keyshawn going to the Pats the last time he was available. Since the Pats are in serious need of WRs any name that's available is a possibility. Keyshawn's is probably near the top of the list because of his history with BB and the fact his style of play fits a need.
 
Willie's Phone is heating up:

Jets | Team ready to visit with McGinest

Tue, 14 Mar 2006 18:32:57 -0800

Patrick McManamon, of the Akron Beacon Journal, reports talk from Boston is the New York Jets are getting ready to visit with free agent LB Willie McGinest (Patriots).

Dolphins | Team ready to visit with McGinest

Tue, 14 Mar 2006 18:32:25 -0800

Patrick McManamon, of the Akron Beacon Journal, reports talk from Boston is the Miami Dolphins are getting ready to visit with free agent LB Willie McGinest (Patriots).

Cowboys | Team ready to visit with McGinest

Tue, 14 Mar 2006 18:30:31 -0800

Patrick McManamon, of the Akron Beacon Journal, reports talk from Boston is the Dallas Cowboys are getting ready to visit with free agent LB Willie McGinest (Patriots).

 
Buccaneers | Team negotiating with Ashworth

Tue, 14 Mar 2006 17:56:04 -0800

Jim Flynn, of PewterReport.com, reports the Tampa Bay Buccaneers entered into preliminary contract discussions with the agent for free agent OT Tom Ashworth (Patriots) Tuesday, March 14. "We've engaged in preliminary talks about numbers," said Ashworth's agent, Tom Mills. "They've submitted some numbers, and we've submitted some. I don't think we're really close. We're really just talking broad concepts more than anything else." Ashworth has also talked with the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets and Mills said three teams are interested in signing his client.

Seems New England Free Agency really is a one way street!

 
Steelers Note

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/06074/670388.stm

Starting cornerback Deshea Townsend, an unrestricted free agent, will visit the New England Patriots this week.
I'd rather they draft a CB
I wouldn't. We already have three quality young CBs in Samuel, Hobbs and Gay. I'd rather see a veteran brought in and than use a lower pick on a CB. It would give them more flexibility during the draft as well as adding a little more stability to the CB position. Yet, if a stud CB is available at #21 I have no problem going in that direction...as long as they feel he's the best player available.One x-factor here is if they plan on moving Gay to safety. There had been some rumblings about that in the past although I have heard zero about it recently. If they do plan on doing that it definetly increases the need for the CB position because they will probably be thin there.

 
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Seems New England Free Agency really is a one way street!
This is nothing new. It coincides with both the NE philosophy and what happens to winning teams. NE always determines a price they think a player is worth, and they do not exceed it. If they think someone is a perfect match, like Colvin, they proceed quickly. Otherwise, they wait until most of the big bonus money has dried up, because then they can get value. Very few teams are championship calibre improved with splashy free agent signings. Bad teams, like TN and CLE can get better, but it harder to improve good teams- in both the short and long term. Furthermore, they have a very different way of evaluating talent than we do. Most were shocked when they drafted Watson (we have TE"S and just drafted Graham), Branch (what? he is not on anyone's board as more than a late 3rd) or Logan Mankins (see Branch). This is a hit and miss proposition. Sometimes they get Mike Vrabel or Roman Phifer and other times they get Donald Hayes or Duane Starks. Fortunately, when they miss, they have not tied up a bunch of money in that player.

Then there is problem of being a championship team. If Givens had the same numbers and skill set but played in AZ, he would not get this contract. However, since he has been a great guy on a championship team, he adds extra something to a non championship team that is worth them paying for. He is a presence that the young guys can learn from. This happens all the time. That is why most teams only have a short run at the top, and decline. NE will have to continue to draft very well in rounds 1-7 to stay successful.

This isn't going to change as long as BB and Piolo are there. This style has worked for them, and they aren't going to change it.

 
Seems New England Free Agency really is a one way street!
This is nothing new. It coincides with both the NE philosophy and what happens to winning teams. NE always determines a price they think a player is worth, and they do not exceed it. If they think someone is a perfect match, like Colvin, they proceed quickly. Otherwise, they wait until most of the big bonus money has dried up, because then they can get value. Very few teams are championship calibre improved with splashy free agent signings. Bad teams, like TN and CLE can get better, but it harder to improve good teams- in both the short and long term. Furthermore, they have a very different way of evaluating talent than we do. Most were shocked when they drafted Watson (we have TE"S and just drafted Graham), Branch (what? he is not on anyone's board as more than a late 3rd) or Logan Mankins (see Branch). This is a hit and miss proposition. Sometimes they get Mike Vrabel or Roman Phifer and other times they get Donald Hayes or Duane Starks. Fortunately, when they miss, they have not tied up a bunch of money in that player.

Then there is problem of being a championship team. If Givens had the same numbers and skill set but played in AZ, he would not get this contract. However, since he has been a great guy on a championship team, he adds extra something to a non championship team that is worth them paying for. He is a presence that the young guys can learn from. This happens all the time. That is why most teams only have a short run at the top, and decline. NE will have to continue to draft very well in rounds 1-7 to stay successful.

This isn't going to change as long as BB and Piolo are there. This style has worked for them, and they aren't going to change it.
Nice post...right on the money. Let's just hope they have a better offseason than last year's debacle when they really swung and missed on their free agent acquisitions (although the draft class looks solid)
 
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.

 
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.
 

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