Pat' off season and next year (1 Viewer)

[nerangers]

An interesting read:

Planning goes only so far

Bill Belichick has a plan. Of this we are sure. The problem, thus far, is that other people have plans, too.

He planned to sign wide receiver Joe Jurevicius to replace David Givens for a price he knew was right. Jurevicius had other plans.

He planned to sign cornerback DeShea Townsend for a price he knew was right. The Pittsburgh Steelers had other plans.

He planned to re-sign Adam Vinatieri for a price he knew would be right after the market for kickers dried up with the help -- wittingly or unwittingly, depending on whom you believe -- of Vinatieri's agent, who just happens to work for Belichick's lawyer back in Cleveland. Vinatieri had other plans and pretty soon another agent.

None of this means Belichick's plan, with some adjustments, won't in the end net him a roster that will keep the Patriots competitive in the AFC. It means only that other people have plans, too, and you can't control them, which can lead to unexpected difficulties and the need for adjustments. And so he adjusts

Borges is a moron and everyone knows it. Add him to the reasons why the Globe is going out of business..

I don't know much about the guy, but the article was accurate. I don't think BB could have anticipated the Cap going from 94.5 to 107. This allowed teams to go after players, and pretty much overpay for them. DeShea Townsend was pretty much signed here till the Steeler through more money at him. The Pats just refuse to overpay for players. They seem to have a set number what a position is worth, and that is what they are willing to pay. It is for this reason I doubt Eric Moulds will be a Patriot.

 

[Baracuda]

Bourges has been negative on the Pats since Bill Parcels left. I'm not saying he's wrong this time, just biased.

 

[SoloMatisse]

Did anyone see the Pats overapaying, or even acquiring Corey Dillon a couple of years ago? Youre lying if you say 'yes'. Noone saw that coming. Dillon wanted out. Made it known. Still had something left to give. The Pats needed a back. He was proven. Was already making a little change. Boom....there he is. We dont think this is the exact same scenario? Guy wants out of Buffalo. Pats have a need at his position. Wants a little cash, but the Pats have plenty and would be willing to offer it to a proven veteran with something to offer. He played well with a halfway decent QB throwing to him last year. How good do you think he might be with Brady? Believe me, this Moulds thing is dead serious. Moulds has multiple teams interested, he'll be getting paid well either way. But honestly, who would HE rather play for? Houston or NE? He's in a position of choice right now. Youve got to be loving it right now if youre Moulds. Sounds like he wants to go to Philly, but outside of TO, they dont have much history of bringing in high priced vets like that at his position, and I think theyre still smarting from the TO mistake. Id expect they wont get involved. New England is the front runner here, imo. We'll see.

 

[nerangers]

Did anyone see the Pats overapaying, or even acquiring Corey Dillon a couple of years ago?  Youre lying if you say 'yes'.  Noone saw that coming.  Dillon wanted out.  Made it known.  Still had something left to give.  The Pats needed a back.  He was proven.  Was already making a little change.  Boom....there he is.  We dont think this is the exact same scenario?  Guy wants out of Buffalo.  Pats have a need at his position.  Wants a little cash, but the Pats have plenty and would be willing to offer it to a proven veteran with something to offer.  He played well with a halfway decent QB throwing to him last year.  How good do you think he might be with Brady?  Believe me, this Moulds thing is dead serious.  Moulds has multiple teams interested, he'll be getting paid well either way.  But honestly, who would HE rather play for?  Houston or NE?  He's in a position of choice right now.  Youve got to be loving it right now if youre Moulds.  Sounds like he wants to go to Philly, but outside of TO, they dont have much history of bringing in high priced vets like that at his position, and I think theyre still smarting from the TO mistake.  Id expect they wont get involved.  New England is the front runner here, imo.  We'll see.

Patriots | Team not moving fast enough for MouldsMon, 27 Mar 2006 22:33:01 -0800

Tom E. Curran, of the Providence Journal, reports Buffalo Bills WR Eric Moulds' advisor, Gerg Johnson, said the Philadelphia Eagles and the Houston Texans are moving faster than the New England Patriots to try to land Moulds. Johnson said, "It's not going to work out [with New England]. The timing's not right. The only way it would get done now is if it falls apart with these other teams, and I don't see that happening." He believes everything will be settled in the next 48 hours.

Moulds available for the right price

ORLANDO, Fla. - Bills general manager Marv Levy wouldn’t mind shipping disgruntled wideout Eric Moulds within the division to the Patriots - for the right price.

Moulds, an 11-year veteran, is slated to make $7.1 million next season, which seemingly would price him out of New England. But Johnson has had discussions with the Texans about restructuring Moulds’ contract and presumably would do the same for the Pats, who lack a No. 2 receiver.

 

[nerangers]

Belichick & Cowher

The friendship of Steelers coach Bill Cowher and Patriots coach Bill Belichick is in focus in this Pittsburgh Post-Gazette piece.

Cowher spoke on how Belichick helped him leading up to Super Bowl XL, saying: “Bill Belichick's a guy I have tremendous respect for. We talked even before the Super Bowl this last time and he was very insightful, not so much [about strategy] but kind of what he's gone through the last few years. It'd been 10 years since we'd been to one."

Cowher also said he hopes the Steelers can maintain their level of excellence, like the Patriots. "I learned a lot just watching them handle that and hopefully we can emulate what they've done. Three in four years is not easy. We've done it once; nobody can take that away from you, but now the challenge is to be able to maintain that same level."

 

[SoloMatisse]

So Moulds' agent is saying who is involved in the dealings? His 'advisor' Greg Johnson is linking Philly? We'll have to see that to believe it. It wouldnt be the first time an agent overstated other teams' interests in a player to created a little more leverage. Not that Philly isnt a real player in the Moulds chase, but I dont believe a single word that comes out of an agent/advisor's mouth anymore. 48 hours will tell the story, and Ill patiently ride it out and keep my fingers crossed. But I wont write off NE's ability to get something done with Moulds because imo, this is the most attractive place for him to be if the money is equal.

 

[Boston]

Did anyone see the Pats overapaying, or even acquiring Corey Dillon a couple of years ago? Youre lying if you say 'yes'. Noone saw that coming. Dillon wanted out. Made it known. Still had something left to give. The Pats needed a back. He was proven. Was already making a little change. Boom....there he is. We dont think this is the exact same scenario? Guy wants out of Buffalo. Pats have a need at his position. Wants a little cash, but the Pats have plenty and would be willing to offer it to a proven veteran with something to offer. He played well with a halfway decent QB throwing to him last year. How good do you think he might be with Brady? Believe me, this Moulds thing is dead serious. Moulds has multiple teams interested, he'll be getting paid well either way. But honestly, who would HE rather play for? Houston or NE? He's in a position of choice right now. Youve got to be loving it right now if youre Moulds. Sounds like he wants to go to Philly, but outside of TO, they dont have much history of bringing in high priced vets like that at his position, and I think theyre still smarting from the TO mistake. Id expect they wont get involved. New England is the front runner here, imo. We'll see.

One thing to remember...Dillon took a paycut to come to the Pats. He was mainly concerned with getting out of Cincy at the time and money didn't appear to be his major concern. The contract he played with in 04 was very reasonable for a player of his caliber. Right now it would appear that Moulds is in no rush to sign a team-friendly contract. If the stories are true about multiple teams attempting to acquire him than he probably won't have to. My guess is right now the Pats are trying to let the other teams set the market before being active...and it looks like that market maybe a little too rich in their mind for a 30+ WR. Doesn't mean they won't jump in a little more aggressively but right now the money maybe more than what they want to spend.

 

[SoloMatisse]

Did anyone see the Pats overapaying, or even acquiring Corey Dillon a couple of years ago?  Youre lying if you say 'yes'.  Noone saw that coming.  Dillon wanted out.  Made it known.  Still had something left to give.  The Pats needed a back.  He was proven.  Was already making a little change.  Boom....there he is.  We dont think this is the exact same scenario?  Guy wants out of Buffalo.  Pats have a need at his position.  Wants a little cash, but the Pats have plenty and would be willing to offer it to a proven veteran with something to offer.  He played well with a halfway decent QB throwing to him last year.  How good do you think he might be with Brady?  Believe me, this Moulds thing is dead serious.  Moulds has multiple teams interested, he'll be getting paid well either way.  But honestly, who would HE rather play for?  Houston or NE?  He's in a position of choice right now.  Youve got to be loving it right now if youre Moulds.  Sounds like he wants to go to Philly, but outside of TO, they dont have much history of bringing in high priced vets like that at his position, and I think theyre still smarting from the TO mistake.  Id expect they wont get involved.  New England is the front runner here, imo.  We'll see.

One thing to remember...Dillon took a paycut to come to the Pats. He was mainly concerned with getting out of Cincy at the time and money didn't appear to be his major concern. The contract he played with in 04 was very reasonable for a player of his caliber. Right now it would appear that Moulds is in no rush to sign a team-friendly contract. If the stories are true about multiple teams attempting to acquire him than he probably won't have to. My guess is right now the Pats are trying to let the other teams set the market before being active...and it looks like that market maybe a little too rich in their mind for a 30+ WR. Doesn't mean they won't jump in a little more aggressively but right now the money maybe more than what they want to spend.

B-If they are more than $20 mil under the cap right now, then we may see them make a move and take a risk...NOW. This signing cant wait. Some times waiting out these situations seems the right thing to do, but there comes a time when you have to act. Theyve lost Davis, Givens and even Dwight, who is worthless at WR, but nonetheless gone. Branch and Johnson? and Caldwell? Are they kidding? A move needs to be made. Dillon took a cut to approve a deal. Moulds is in the process of doing that now with whichever team he signs with. $5mil/ over 3 years in a team friendly out deal is what needs to be done here. They make that play, and offer the right pick, theyre getting him. But theyre not going to compete with the current OUTS because theyre not that good for starters, but more importantly have NO depth or margin for error. I have a feeling something is about to bring Moulds into the fold.

 

[David Yudkin]

Did anyone see the Pats overapaying, or even acquiring Corey Dillon a couple of years ago? Youre lying if you say 'yes'. Noone saw that coming. Dillon wanted out. Made it known. Still had something left to give. The Pats needed a back. He was proven. Was already making a little change. Boom....there he is. We dont think this is the exact same scenario? Guy wants out of Buffalo. Pats have a need at his position. Wants a little cash, but the Pats have plenty and would be willing to offer it to a proven veteran with something to offer. He played well with a halfway decent QB throwing to him last year. How good do you think he might be with Brady? Believe me, this Moulds thing is dead serious. Moulds has multiple teams interested, he'll be getting paid well either way. But honestly, who would HE rather play for? Houston or NE? He's in a position of choice right now. Youve got to be loving it right now if youre Moulds. Sounds like he wants to go to Philly, but outside of TO, they dont have much history of bringing in high priced vets like that at his position, and I think theyre still smarting from the TO mistake. Id expect they wont get involved. New England is the front runner here, imo. We'll see.

I think the issue here with Moulds is that it impacts the fiber of the team and veers away from the team's philosophy for surpressing contract values. If they bring in Moulds, Branch is going to scream bloody murder that he's not making $7 million a year. And so on and so on right down the line for other key players. I've mentioned several times that I think the Pats misgaged the market some with the cap going up from $84.5M to $102M. With the cap going up 20%+, contracts seem to have gone up that amount as well. The Pats seem to be working with numbers under the old system and thus (for now) have only Reche Caldwell to show for it.

With the other players leaving town, the players they cut, and Dillion's restructuring that has to put them in the area of $25M under the cap. If there is a limited talent pool to draw from, a lot of good it will do them. It's not like you can trade cap room.

Keyshawn said it best when asked if he talked to the Pats and would he be coming to N.E.. He apparently said not for the five bucks that they offered him. IMO, the Pats are getting the rep as not paying out decent money, and I suspect that players will start shying away from them if they haven't already.

 

[Serenity Now]

The Pats are once again being painted with the false accusation of being cheap. Prima Donnas aren't going to come to NE because they won't overpay. Yet somehow, they're always spending up to within a few million of the cap each year because they take care of the whole team, rather than just a few. Contrast this with Indianapolis who doles out a lion's share of money to 3 guys and the rest get the scraps.

 

[Davej626]

All that being said, there isn't any way in hell that the Pats are going to give Moulds seven million a year. No way. Especially not with Branch's contract coming up. This could be why his agent is saying that they are out of the running. He is going to work with the teams that will give him the seven mill. I would not get your hopes up of Moulds coming here.

 

[Boston]

Did anyone see the Pats overapaying, or even acquiring Corey Dillon a couple of years ago?  Youre lying if you say 'yes'.  Noone saw that coming.  Dillon wanted out.  Made it known.  Still had something left to give.  The Pats needed a back.  He was proven.  Was already making a little change.  Boom....there he is.  We dont think this is the exact same scenario?   Guy wants out of Buffalo.  Pats have a need at his position.  Wants a little cash, but the Pats have plenty and would be willing to offer it to a proven veteran with something to offer.   He played well with a halfway decent QB throwing to him last year.  How good do you think he might be with Brady?  Believe me, this Moulds thing is dead serious.  Moulds has multiple teams interested, he'll be getting paid well either way.  But honestly, who would HE rather play for?  Houston or NE?  He's in a position of choice right now.  Youve got to be loving it right now if youre Moulds.  Sounds like he wants to go to Philly, but outside of TO, they dont have much history of bringing in high priced vets like that at his position, and I think theyre still smarting from the TO mistake.  Id expect they wont get involved.  New England is the front runner here, imo.  We'll see.

One thing to remember...Dillon took a paycut to come to the Pats. He was mainly concerned with getting out of Cincy at the time and money didn't appear to be his major concern. The contract he played with in 04 was very reasonable for a player of his caliber. Right now it would appear that Moulds is in no rush to sign a team-friendly contract. If the stories are true about multiple teams attempting to acquire him than he probably won't have to. My guess is right now the Pats are trying to let the other teams set the market before being active...and it looks like that market maybe a little too rich in their mind for a 30+ WR. Doesn't mean they won't jump in a little more aggressively but right now the money maybe more than what they want to spend.

B-If they are more than $20 mil under the cap right now, then we may see them make a move and take a risk...NOW. This signing cant wait. Some times waiting out these situations seems the right thing to do, but there comes a time when you have to act. Theyve lost Davis, Givens and even Dwight, who is worthless at WR, but nonetheless gone. Branch and Johnson? and Caldwell? Are they kidding? A move needs to be made. Dillon took a cut to approve a deal. Moulds is in the process of doing that now with whichever team he signs with. $5mil/ over 3 years in a team friendly out deal is what needs to be done here. They make that play, and offer the right pick, theyre getting him. But theyre not going to compete with the current OUTS because theyre not that good for starters, but more importantly have NO depth or margin for error. I have a feeling something is about to bring Moulds into the fold.

It would not surprise me if the Pats did something out of the mainstream but I just don't see it being for a 33 year old WR. That doesn't jive with how they conduct business. If they were to do that it would basically mean that their hardline stances with other players and willingness not to overpay this offseason all would be moot and flushed down the toilet. All it takes is one bad contract to screw up future negotiations with players. Due to that I don't see the Pats going crazy for Moulds. While there's short term gain it's not worth it in the big picture and will eventually cause more harm than could if they overpay for Moulds.That being said I couldn't agree with you more about the Pats WR situation. Right now it's Branch and not much more. It's a weakness as currently constructed. Remember, Branch has had injury issues in the past and if he went down they'd be in deep trouble. Also, Branch isn't physically strong enough to handle double teams and right now he maybe triple teamed. I really don't know what they're doing at this position but something has to give at some point.

 

[Boston]

The Pats are once again being painted with the false accusation of being cheap. Prima Donnas aren't going to come to NE because they won't overpay. Yet somehow, they're always spending up to within a few million of the cap each year because they take care of the whole team, rather than just a few. Contrast this with Indianapolis who doles out a lion's share of money to 3 guys and the rest get the scraps.

The Pats are not cheap. Anyone who thinks so doesn't follow them. Like you said, they spend to the cap every year. Yet, thet they tend to do it with depth throughout the roster as oppossed to being a top heavy roster. That looks like their plan this year...although who the players will be is still a mystery.

 

[David Yudkin]

Although who the players will be is still a mystery.

The Chicken Little friends I have are concerned that the players that are AVAILABLE are the mystery part in terms of talent. They tend to think that the cream of the crop has already signed elsewhere and that $20+ million in available funding is essentially going to be spent on less talented players. I guess we'll have to see who they end up with . . .

 

[Workhorse]

Sounds like Eric Warfield may be about to sign.

http://patriots.scout.com/2/514053.html

 

[Borat]

Bottom line is, you know, I bet he had a lot of his lunch money taken from him in sixth grade. And you know what? And you know what? I’d have had all his quarters. - Ron Borges, On ESPN Boston, 01/06/06, speaking of Bill Belichick

Belichick will not be so lucky. He doesn't have (Jimmy) Johnson's personality, which can be as jovial and charming as a snake oil salesman's. Worse, this Patriot team isn't going to win two Super Bowls any time soon... - Ron Borges, Boston Globe, 11/22/01

On a day when they could have had impact players David Terrell or Koren Robinson or the second-best tackle in the draft in Kenyatta Walker, they took Georgia defensive tackle Richard Seymour, who had 1 sacks last season in the pass-happy SEC and is too tall to play tackle at 6-6 and too slow to play defensive end. This genius move was followed by trading out of a spot where they could have gotten the last decent receiver in Robert Ferguson and settled for tackle Matt Light, who will not help any time soon. - Ron Borges, MSNBC after 2001 Draft.

 

[SoloMatisse]

Did anyone see the Pats overapaying, or even acquiring Corey Dillon a couple of years ago?  Youre lying if you say 'yes'.  Noone saw that coming.  Dillon wanted out.  Made it known.  Still had something left to give.  The Pats needed a back.  He was proven.  Was already making a little change.  Boom....there he is.  We dont think this is the exact same scenario?  Guy wants out of Buffalo.  Pats have a need at his position.  Wants a little cash, but the Pats have plenty and would be willing to offer it to a proven veteran with something to offer.  He played well with a halfway decent QB throwing to him last year.  How good do you think he might be with Brady?  Believe me, this Moulds thing is dead serious.  Moulds has multiple teams interested, he'll be getting paid well either way.  But honestly, who would HE rather play for?  Houston or NE?  He's in a position of choice right now.  Youve got to be loving it right now if youre Moulds.  Sounds like he wants to go to Philly, but outside of TO, they dont have much history of bringing in high priced vets like that at his position, and I think theyre still smarting from the TO mistake.  Id expect they wont get involved.  New England is the front runner here, imo.  We'll see.

I think the issue here with Moulds is that it impacts the fiber of the team and veers away from the team's philosophy for surpressing contract values. If they bring in Moulds, Branch is going to scream bloody murder that he's not making $7 million a year. And so on and so on right down the line for other key players. I've mentioned several times that I think the Pats misgaged the market some with the cap going up from $84.5M to $102M. With the cap going up 20%+, contracts seem to have gone up that amount as well. The Pats seem to be working with numbers under the old system and thus (for now) have only Reche Caldwell to show for it.

With the other players leaving town, the players they cut, and Dillion's restructuring that has to put them in the area of $25M under the cap. If there is a limited talent pool to draw from, a lot of good it will do them. It's not like you can trade cap room.

Keyshawn said it best when asked if he talked to the Pats and would he be coming to N.E.. He apparently said not for the five bucks that they offered him. IMO, the Pats are getting the rep as not paying out decent money, and I suspect that players will start shying away from them if they haven't already.

Since when does what Keyshawn Johnson say carry any weight? Are you kidding me? That guy isnt worth the '5 bucks' the Pats offered him, but once againt the some team in the NFL folded and paid a scrub on the career downside far more than what he's worth. I dont like NE not picking up anyone significant, but Id rather see that than Keyshawn getting overpaid. But Keyshawn saying anything best?.....not buying his opinion over that of a proven 3 time world championship orgainization.

 

[David Yudkin]

Did anyone see the Pats overapaying, or even acquiring Corey Dillon a couple of years ago?  Youre lying if you say 'yes'.  Noone saw that coming.  Dillon wanted out.  Made it known.  Still had something left to give.  The Pats needed a back.  He was proven.  Was already making a little change.  Boom....there he is.  We dont think this is the exact same scenario?   Guy wants out of Buffalo.  Pats have a need at his position.  Wants a little cash, but the Pats have plenty and would be willing to offer it to a proven veteran with something to offer.   He played well with a halfway decent QB throwing to him last year.  How good do you think he might be with Brady?  Believe me, this Moulds thing is dead serious.  Moulds has multiple teams interested, he'll be getting paid well either way.  But honestly, who would HE rather play for?  Houston or NE?  He's in a position of choice right now.  Youve got to be loving it right now if youre Moulds.  Sounds like he wants to go to Philly, but outside of TO, they dont have much history of bringing in high priced vets like that at his position, and I think theyre still smarting from the TO mistake.  Id expect they wont get involved.  New England is the front runner here, imo.  We'll see.

I think the issue here with Moulds is that it impacts the fiber of the team and veers away from the team's philosophy for surpressing contract values. If they bring in Moulds, Branch is going to scream bloody murder that he's not making $7 million a year. And so on and so on right down the line for other key players. I've mentioned several times that I think the Pats misgaged the market some with the cap going up from $84.5M to $102M. With the cap going up 20%+, contracts seem to have gone up that amount as well. The Pats seem to be working with numbers under the old system and thus (for now) have only Reche Caldwell to show for it.

With the other players leaving town, the players they cut, and Dillion's restructuring that has to put them in the area of $25M under the cap. If there is a limited talent pool to draw from, a lot of good it will do them. It's not like you can trade cap room.

Keyshawn said it best when asked if he talked to the Pats and would he be coming to N.E.. He apparently said not for the five bucks that they offered him. IMO, the Pats are getting the rep as not paying out decent money, and I suspect that players will start shying away from them if they haven't already.

Since when does what Keyshawn Johnson say carry any weight? Are you kidding me? That guy isnt worth the '5 bucks' the Pats offered him, but once againt the some team in the NFL folded and paid a scrub on the career downside far more than what he's worth. I dont like NE not picking up anyone significant, but Id rather see that than Keyshawn getting overpaid. But Keyshawn saying anything best?.....not buying his opinion over that of a proven 3 time world championship orgainization.

Say what you want about Keyshawn, but he's had 70+ catches in every year he's played (except the year he got but in time out). 70/900/6 is still pretty good, and is similar or better production than Givens at similar (or less) cost. At that price, I don't see Johnson as being overpaid.

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Team does not visit with Warfield; but they do speak with his agent

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 15:20:53 -0800

Mike Reiss, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots did not visit with free agent CB Eric Warfield (Chiefs), as reported previously, but they did talk to him. The clarification was made by agent Craig Domann. Domann said the conversation was set up because the Patriots' brass was in Orlando for the NFL owners' meetings.

Warfield clarification

The Patriots did not host cornerback Eric Warfield on a free-agent visit, but the sides did speak to each other about the possibility of Warfield joining the team.

The clarification was made by agent Craig Domann, who represents Warfield. Domann said the conversation was set up because the Patriots' brass was in Orlando for the NFL owners meetings.

An official in Domann's office provided incorrect information earlier in the day that Warfield had visited the Patriots.

 

[nerangers]

I can imagine Keyshawn saying that about the five bucks...I have thought that a good amount of the FA signings so far have been for more money than I thought that player would get. The extra cap money definitely changed this FA period.

If the Pats had resigned Adam V, I don't the average fan would be worrrying about the Patriots and BB.

I don't consider the Pats a cheap team...you just won't see overpaid football players on the team. I guess it comes down to either getting a chance at a SB ring, or money.

I'm sitting back and getting ready for the rollercoaster ride that is the Patriot offseason.

 

[nerangers]

HARRISON SIGHTING: from Boston.com Safety Rodney Harrison walked through the media room at Gillette Stadium, taking a break from a workout. He looked terrific and said he felt that way as well. Harrison is moving without the aid of crutches.

 

[Boston]

HARRISON SIGHTING: from Boston.com Safety Rodney Harrison walked through the media room at Gillette Stadium, taking a break from a workout. He looked terrific and said he felt that way as well. Harrison is moving without the aid of crutches.

It sounds very positive about him returning. Hopefully we still feel that way once the pads go on and he tests out the leg. His returning to form would be a bigger addition than any other move they could make this offseason.

 

[nerangers]

What other teams paid for some of our players:

Jets | Contract update: T. Dwight

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 22:02:51 -0800

New York Jets WR Tim Dwight signed a four-year contract with base salaries of $710,000 (2006), $720,000 (2007), $830,000 (2008) and $840,000 (2009).

Jets | Contract update: Chatham

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 22:02:24 -0800

New York Jets LB Matt Chatham signed a three-year contract with base salaries of $585,000 (2006), $720,000 (2007) and $730,000 (2008).

Raiders | Contract update: D. Starks

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 21:58:48 -0800

Oakland Raiders CB Duane Starks signed a one-year contract with a base salary of $710,000 in 2006.

Raiders | Contract update: T. Poole

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 21:57:59 -0800

Oakland Raiders CB Tyrone Poole signed a two-year contract with base salaries of $1.0 million (2006) and $1.5 million (2007).

Seahawks | Contract update: Ashworth

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 20:27:33 -0800

Seattle Seahawks OT Tom Ashworth signed a five-year contract with base salaries of $585,000 (2006), $1.5 million (2007), $2.0 million (2008), $2.0 million (2009) and $2.0 million (2010).

 

[nerangers]

What we paid a few of our players

Patriots | Contract update: R. Tucker

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 20:11:09 -0800

New England Patriots OG Ross Tucker signed a one-year contract with a base salary of $585,000 in 2006.

Patriots | Contract update: H. Evans

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 20:10:46 -0800

New England Patriots RB Heath Evans signed a one-year contract with a base salary of $585,000 in 2006.

Patriots | Contract update: Caldwell

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 20:09:42 -0800

New England Patriots WR Reche Caldwell signed a two-year contract with base salaries of $585,000 (2006) and $1.0 million (2007).

 

[nerangers]

Branch and Seymour

Patriots | Team wants to extend Branch's contract

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 20:01:48 -0800

Adam Schefter, of the NFL Network, reports the New England Patriots have been working to sign WR Deion Branch to a long-term extension before he is scheduled to hit the free-agent market after this season. The Patriots are highly confident that, unlike some of the players that got away this offseason, Branch will not be allowed to go anywhere.

Patriots | Seymour has to wait until August for a potential new deal

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 19:56:45 -0800

Adam Schefter, of the NFL Network, reports the New England Patriots may want to sign DE Richard Seymour to a new contract, but they will have to wait until August to do so. Under terms of the collective bargaining agreement, a player's contract cannot be renegotiated twice within one calendar year. Last August, Seymour redid his contract, earning himself more of the money he wanted. But by doing that, he delayed another longer, bigger deal until this August, at the very earliest. That might be one reason the Patriots are holding on to a good deal of salary cap space knowing that a good deal of it could be devoted to Seymour.

 

[nerangers]

from the Boston Herald...Adam’s bolt a big jolt

ORLANDO, Fla. - For a guy who said he wanted to remain in New England, it didn’t take Adam Vinatieri very long to join the Indianapolis Colts.

According to Colts head coach Tony Dungy, Vinatieri needed just 45 minutes before accepting Indy’s five-year offer last week.

Speaking at the NFL owners meetings yesterday, Dungy said he was as surprised as anyone to hear the 10-year veteran would consider leaving the Patriots. The deal with the Colts went down so fast, Dungy didn’t even talk to Vinatieri until after he agreed to the contract.

Even though Dungy already knew of the Green Bay visit, he expected Vinatieri to resist the idea of departing New England. But the tough sell was never needed.

“He had already indicated he might leave, which made it easier,” Dungy said. “We didn’t have to convince him. (Colts president) Bill (Polian) laid it out and told him, here’s how much you’re going to get paid, we have a great holder and snapper, you get to kick indoors at least half the time, you’re going to be on a contender, and we really want you. About 45 minutes later he called back and said yes.”

 

[Werker]

...Adam Schefter, of the NFL Network, reports the New England Patriots may want to sign DE Richard Seymour to a new contract, but they will have to wait until August to do so. Under terms of the collective bargaining agreement, a player's contract cannot be renegotiated twice within one calendar year. Last August, Seymour redid his contract, earning himself more of the money he wanted. But by doing that, he delayed another longer, bigger deal until this August, at the very earliest. That might be one reason the Patriots are holding on to a good deal of salary cap space knowing that a good deal of it could be devoted to Seymour....

It seems that this rule is one of those 'Date Only' deals. By that I mean they could easily negotiate the deal ahead of time and wait until the year anniversary to announce it. Agreed?

 

[Urine_Idiot]

Bottom line is, you know, I bet he had a lot of his lunch money taken from him in sixth grade. And you know what? And you know what? I’d have had all his quarters. - Ron Borges, On ESPN Boston, 01/06/06, speaking of Bill Belichick

Belichick will not be so lucky. He doesn't have (Jimmy) Johnson's personality, which can be as jovial and charming as a snake oil salesman's. Worse, this Patriot team isn't going to win two Super Bowls any time soon... - Ron Borges, Boston Globe, 11/22/01

On a day when they could have had impact players David Terrell or Koren Robinson or the second-best tackle in the draft in Kenyatta Walker, they took Georgia defensive tackle Richard Seymour, who had 1 sacks last season in the pass-happy SEC and is too tall to play tackle at 6-6 and too slow to play defensive end. This genius move was followed by trading out of a spot where they could have gotten the last decent receiver in Robert Ferguson and settled for tackle Matt Light, who will not help any time soon. - Ron Borges, MSNBC after 2001 Draft.

 

[Bri]

from the Boston Herald...Adam’s bolt a big jolt

ORLANDO, Fla. - For a guy who said he wanted to remain in New England, it didn’t take Adam Vinatieri very long to join the Indianapolis Colts.

According to Colts head coach Tony Dungy, Vinatieri needed just 45 minutes before accepting Indy’s five-year offer last week.

Speaking at the NFL owners meetings yesterday, Dungy said he was as surprised as anyone to hear the 10-year veteran would consider leaving the Patriots. The deal with the Colts went down so fast, Dungy didn’t even talk to Vinatieri until after he agreed to the contract.

Even though Dungy already knew of the Green Bay visit, he expected Vinatieri to resist the idea of departing New England. But the tough sell was never needed.

“He had already indicated he might leave, which made it easier,” Dungy said. “We didn’t have to convince him. (Colts president) Bill (Polian) laid it out and told him, here’s how much you’re going to get paid, we have a great holder and snapper, you get to kick indoors at least half the time, you’re going to be on a contender, and we really want you. About 45 minutes later he called back and said yes.”

I wonder how many rings he'll end his career with.

 

[Kit Fisto]

Hear on WEEI this morning that Belichick is waiting for the Redskins to cut David Patten.

Not glamorous, but I'd welcome him back. That being said, we still need a more dependable #2 than Caldwell/Patten/Brown.

 

[Exile]

...

Adam Schefter, of the NFL Network, reports the New England Patriots may want to sign DE Richard Seymour to a new contract, but they will have to wait until August to do so. Under terms of the collective bargaining agreement, a player's contract cannot be renegotiated twice within one calendar year. Last August, Seymour redid his contract, earning himself more of the money he wanted. But by doing that, he delayed another longer, bigger deal until this August, at the very earliest. That might be one reason the Patriots are holding on to a good deal of salary cap space knowing that a good deal of it could be devoted to Seymour.

...

It seems that this rule is one of those 'Date Only' deals. By that I mean they could easily negotiate the deal ahead of time and wait until the year anniversary to announce it. Agreed?

I think this is a likely scenario since there was an article a few weeks back (in the Herald I believe) where the writer had claimed to have seen the numbers Seymour was in line for. He said he couldn't report them but they were "eye-popping".

 

[bostonfred]

Hear on WEEI this morning that Belichick is waiting for the Redskins to cut David Patten.

Not glamorous, but I'd welcome him back. That being said, we still need a more dependable #2 than Caldwell/Patten/Brown.

Patten makes a ton of sense. If we end up with Branch, Caldwell, Patten and Brown, I think the Pats draft a receiver and make due until Branch is locked up long term. Branch/Watson/Patten/Evans/Faulk/Graham/Caldwell/Brown really isn't that much different from the crews that Brady has excelled with in the past.

 

[Kit Fisto]

Hear on WEEI this morning that Belichick is waiting for the Redskins to cut David Patten.

Not glamorous, but I'd welcome him back. That being said, we still need a more dependable #2 than Caldwell/Patten/Brown.

Patten makes a ton of sense. If we end up with Branch, Caldwell, Patten and Brown, I think the Pats draft a receiver and make due until Branch is locked up long term. Branch/Watson/Patten/Evans/Faulk/Graham/Caldwell/Brown really isn't that much different from the crews that Brady has excelled with in the past.

Absolutely right.Caldwell < Givens

Patten = Dwight

rookie > Bethel

I gotta say though... for as solid of a WR Givens is, he wasn't exactly a world-beater. I don't view Caldwell as that much of a downgrade, and I think we could be pleasantly surprised if he stays healthy.

I also think this is the year Watson busts out, big time, which may be why Belichick isn't freaking just yet.

 

[nerangers]

Patriots | Preseason schedule announced

Wed, 29 Mar 2006 09:54:23 -0800

The New England Patriots open the 2006 preseason schedule with a nationally televised game at the Atlanta Falcons Friday, Aug. 11, at 8 p.m. EST on CBS. The Patriots will then host the Arizona Cardinals Saturday, Aug. 19, in an 8 p.m. EST game to be televised on the NFL Network. New England finishes the preseason with a home contest against the Washington Redskins (Aug. 24-28) and a road game at the New York Giants (Aug. 31-Sept. 2).

 

[SoloMatisse]

Did anyone see the Pats overapaying, or even acquiring Corey Dillon a couple of years ago?  Youre lying if you say 'yes'.  Noone saw that coming.  Dillon wanted out.  Made it known.  Still had something left to give.  The Pats needed a back.  He was proven.  Was already making a little change.  Boom....there he is.  We dont think this is the exact same scenario?   Guy wants out of Buffalo.  Pats have a need at his position.  Wants a little cash, but the Pats have plenty and would be willing to offer it to a proven veteran with something to offer.   He played well with a halfway decent QB throwing to him last year.  How good do you think he might be with Brady?  Believe me, this Moulds thing is dead serious.  Moulds has multiple teams interested, he'll be getting paid well either way.  But honestly, who would HE rather play for?  Houston or NE?  He's in a position of choice right now.  Youve got to be loving it right now if youre Moulds.  Sounds like he wants to go to Philly, but outside of TO, they dont have much history of bringing in high priced vets like that at his position, and I think theyre still smarting from the TO mistake.  Id expect they wont get involved.  New England is the front runner here, imo.  We'll see.

I think the issue here with Moulds is that it impacts the fiber of the team and veers away from the team's philosophy for surpressing contract values. If they bring in Moulds, Branch is going to scream bloody murder that he's not making $7 million a year. And so on and so on right down the line for other key players. I've mentioned several times that I think the Pats misgaged the market some with the cap going up from $84.5M to $102M. With the cap going up 20%+, contracts seem to have gone up that amount as well. The Pats seem to be working with numbers under the old system and thus (for now) have only Reche Caldwell to show for it.

With the other players leaving town, the players they cut, and Dillion's restructuring that has to put them in the area of $25M under the cap. If there is a limited talent pool to draw from, a lot of good it will do them. It's not like you can trade cap room.

Keyshawn said it best when asked if he talked to the Pats and would he be coming to N.E.. He apparently said not for the five bucks that they offered him. IMO, the Pats are getting the rep as not paying out decent money, and I suspect that players will start shying away from them if they haven't already.

Since when does what Keyshawn Johnson say carry any weight? Are you kidding me? That guy isnt worth the '5 bucks' the Pats offered him, but once againt the some team in the NFL folded and paid a scrub on the career downside far more than what he's worth. I dont like NE not picking up anyone significant, but Id rather see that than Keyshawn getting overpaid. But Keyshawn saying anything best?.....not buying his opinion over that of a proven 3 time world championship orgainization.

Say what you want about Keyshawn, but he's had 70+ catches in every year he's played (except the year he got but in time out). 70/900/6 is still pretty good, and is similar or better production than Givens at similar (or less) cost. At that price, I don't see Johnson as being overpaid.

Those are just not impressive #s....about 4 catches and a little over 55yds/game. He doesnt stretch the field...in fact, he's as slow as any receiver in the league. He doesnt need to be doubled because he's so friggin' slow he wont beat anyone deep. What's he bringin' to the table? He does what a TE gets paid to do, which is move the chains. He's overpaid. He's been consistently decent...so as far as being a consistently decent player, that he certainly is. Nonetheless, when he opens his mouth, people still tend to tune him out. Would you NOT agree?

 

[bostonfred]

Those are just not impressive #s....about 4 catches and a little over 55yds/game. He doesnt stretch the field...in fact, he's as slow as any receiver in the league. He doesnt need to be doubled because he's so friggin' slow he wont beat anyone deep. What's he bringin' to the table? He does what a TE gets paid to do, which is move the chains. He's overpaid. He's been consistently decent...so as far as being a consistently decent player, that he certainly is. Nonetheless, when he opens his mouth, people still tend to tune him out. Would you NOT agree?

I wouldn't. Keyshawn's a great run blocker for a wide receiver, and that's perfect for a team that runs a ton of screens. And you're right, he doesn't stretch the field. He does exactly what the Patriots like to do - get open in space, make the sideline catch with both feet in bounds, and give up his body over the middle. Yes, he's got a mouth, and apparently he wanted a lot more money than the Patriots were willing to offer. But I'd still love to have seen Brady with a target of Keyshawn's quality.

 

[Boston]

While footballwise Key's a good fit for the Pats I'm glad they didn't sign him. Overall the Pats players are easy to root for and he's one guy that I can do without.

 

[Boston]

From Boston.com...Guss Scott resigns:

March 29, 2006

Safety net

With the re-signing of exclusive rights free agent Guss Scott, the Patriots now have the following personnel at safety:

Rodney Harrison (2005 opening-game starter)

Eugene Wilson (2005 opening-game starter)

Artrell Hawkins

James Sanders

Guss Scott

Ray Ventrone

Veteran Chad Scott, who has primarily played cornerback, could also be a factor in the safety mix.

The Patriots' depth is also affected by the fact Rodney Harrison is rehabbing from a serious knee injury. It is unknown if Harrison will be ready for opening day.

Guss Scott, a 2004 third-round pick, suffered season-ending knee injuries in each of the 2004 and 2005 seasons. The 2004 injury occurred in the preseason. Last season's came after he appeared in five games (2 starts).

The 23-year-old Scott (5-10, 205) was one of the first players to greet new receiver Reche Caldwell during the team's offseason program this week. Scott and Caldwell were teammates at the University of Florida.

Scott really needs to show he belongs this year. Injuries have obviously plagued him severeley but he hasn't looked like anything special when healthy. Hopefully between him and Sanders one of them steps up to be a solid contributor.

By the way what's up with the two s's in Guss?

 

[nerangers]

from Boston.com: Scott ready to start over again - Injury-plagued safety re-signs

Harrison appears to be progressing from major knee surgery, and there are veterans available to provide depth in case he can not return to start the season. One is Tebucky Jones, the Patriots' first-round pick (22d overall) in 1998. Jones, an unrestricted free agent after getting cut by Miami, has been cleared to go all out after suffering a season-ending chest muscle injury in October against Kansas City. Jones, 31, said he's been in Connecticut rehabilitating, and is waiting to hear from teams.

Preseason foes

The Patriots' preseason opponents were announced by the NFL today.

The team will play road preseason games against the Atlanta Falcons and the New York Giants. The team will host preseason games against the Arizona Cardinals and Washington Redskins.

The Patriots' game against Atlanta is Friday, Aug. 11 and will be televised by CBS (8 p.m. ET).

The team's game against Arizona is Saturday, Aug. 19 and will be televised by the NFL Network (8 p.m. ET)

The date and times of the Giants and Redskins games have yet to be determined.

This means a previous report that indicated the Patriots would travel to St. Louis in the preseason was incorrect.

 

[nerangers]

Adam Schefter, reporter for the NFL Network makes a valid point, confirmed by the league office: the Patriots will not be able to consummate 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. Seymour ended his holdout with an adjustment to his contract last August. The Patriots have to leave space for what would likely be a very large cap hit if Seymour's deal could be done. The Patriots also appear to be trying to get a deal done with Deion Branch, which could eat up significant room if Branch lands something close to what David Givens got in Tennessee (five years, $24 million with $8 million in guaranteed bonus money)

 

[nerangers]

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Javon Walker has expressed a desire to be traded, which could interest the Patriots . . . Mum's the word from kicker Paul Edinger's agent, Ken Harris. Edinger visited Foxborough the same day Vinatieri signed with the Colts . . . Former Patriots cornerback Ty Law will visit Tennessee and Seattle next week. The Chiefs are also interested . . . The Patriots have not called agent Carl Poston regarding clients Law, Charles Woodson, or LaVar Arrington

Patriots | No calls for L. Arrington

Thu, 30 Mar 2006 06:32:14 -0800

Nick Cafardo, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots have not called agent Carl Poston about free agent LB LaVar Arrington (Redskins).

Patriots | No calls for C. Woodson

Thu, 30 Mar 2006 06:31:44 -0800

Nick Cafardo, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots have not called agent Carl Poston about free agent CB Charles Woodson (Raiders).

Patriots | No calls for Law

Thu, 30 Mar 2006 06:30:45 -0800

Nick Cafardo, of the Boston Globe, reports the New England Patriots have not called agent Carl Poston about free agent CB Ty Law (Jets).

 

[nerangers]

boston herald - Many wonder about Pats’ prowess

“Their reign is already over,” Browns head coach Romeo Crennel said. “They lost last year. It’s not like they’re defending champions anymore. The Steelers are champions now. The Patriots still might be able to do it again. Who knows?”

Their offseason thus far defined more by who left than who’s been acquired, the Patriots have drawn the interest of their rivals, who wonder how long they can remain among the league’s elite, even with a solid base that includes owner Robert Kraft, head coach Bill Belichick, personnel man Scott Pioli and quarterback Tom Brady.

“The (NFL) system is not designed for dynasties,” said Arizona Cardinals head coach Dennis Green. “The system is designed to gain and then lose. At some point everyone’s going to lose, and then you get better and do it again. I think the Patriots understand that. “They’ve got the four major pieces in place, Brady and Bill and Scott and of course their owner. They just have to understand the system is stacked against them.”

While losing kicker Adam Vinatieri struck most as a surprise, opponents understood the departures of linebacker Willie McGinest and wideout David Givens as a necessary cost of doing business.

New York Giants coach Tom Coughlin noted the danger of paying a veteran beyond his prime. “You can’t sit there with four years of dead money,” Coughlin said. “You can’t put your team in salary cap jail. It just doesn’t work. It’s an unfortunate part of our business, but it’s a harsh reality.”

“Part of what makes the NFL fun is that fan debate,” Lurie said. “But how well the Patriots do is going to be based on how well they draft. And they know that. They’ve got a phenomenal coach and management team in place. They’ll stick to what they feel is the best way to build their team. “Sometimes you have to let a Willie McGinest go. But let’s face it, if they can get another Richard Seymour in the draft, that’s pretty great.”

 

[SoloMatisse]

Those are just not impressive #s....about 4 catches and a little over 55yds/game.  He doesnt stretch the field...in fact, he's as slow as any receiver in the league.  He doesnt need to be doubled because he's so friggin' slow he wont beat anyone deep.  What's he bringin' to the table?  He does what a TE gets paid to do, which is move the chains.  He's overpaid.  He's been consistently decent...so as far as being a consistently decent player, that he certainly is.  Nonetheless, when he opens his mouth, people still tend to tune him out.  Would you NOT agree?

I wouldn't. Keyshawn's a great run blocker for a wide receiver, and that's perfect for a team that runs a ton of screens. And you're right, he doesn't stretch the field. He does exactly what the Patriots like to do - get open in space, make the sideline catch with both feet in bounds, and give up his body over the middle. Yes, he's got a mouth, and apparently he wanted a lot more money than the Patriots were willing to offer. But I'd still love to have seen Brady with a target of Keyshawn's quality.

You wouldnt? You dont think he's been consistently mediocre? And do you really listen to anything that guy has to say? Cmon, seriously. I appreciate the fact that he'll go over the middle and block, but can he make a play down the field and threaten a secondary? Versatile? Not. He's a big guy who goes over middle and blocks well....that my friend is a TE. At this point, with NE's receivers' needs in mind, I would welcome just about anyone, but it would be nice to acquire players with a little more versatility, youth, and like Boston pointed out, less attitude and mouth. He'll fit in nicely with Steve Smith and Carolina. We'll keep looking, but no need to panic...we'll find someone. In the meantime, we're pretty good at TE.

 

[Boston]

Green Bay Packers wide receiver Javon Walker has expressed a desire to be traded, which could interest the Patriots . . . Mum's the word from kicker Paul Edinger's agent, Ken Harris. Edinger visited Foxborough the same day Vinatieri signed with the Colts . . . Former Patriots cornerback Ty Law will visit Tennessee and Seattle next week. The Chiefs are also interested . . . The Patriots have not called agent Carl Poston regarding clients Law, Charles Woodson, or LaVar Arrington

Due to Walker's contract demands I just don't see him ending up in a Pats uniform. The only way I see that happening is if they see Walker as their long term #1 and are willing to let Branch walk after 06 (which would surprise me). I just don't see them tying up big money in both Walker and Branch. That's really not their MO.

 

[Baracuda]

I agree. There's almost no way the Pats would sign a disgruntled WR coming off an ACL injury who is demanding a lot of money from his future team.

 

[nerangers]

I know Patriot fans are keeping an eye out on the Moulds situation...

Bills | Moulds' trade getting closer

Thu, 30 Mar 2006 10:29:58 -0800

ESPN.com's John Clayton reports trade talks are heating up between the Buffalo Bills and two teams, the Houston Texans and Philadelphia Eagles, regarding WR Eric Moulds. A trade could be completed as soon as Thursday, March 30. Moulds will have to restructure his contract for the new teams and that doesn't appear to be a problem.

Sounds final...

From fanball.com...

The Texans have agreed to terms on a trade with the Bills that will net them wide receiver Eric Moulds, according to the Houston ESPN radio affiliate, ESPN 790. The station also reports that Moulds has agreed to a multi-year contract with the Texans, and once he signs the deal the trade will become official.

 

[nerangers]

I think Bruschi will take on an even greater leadership role this year...

Bruschi's take (from Boston.com)

Taking a break from the team's offseason program today, Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi commented on the free-agent depatures of kicker Adam Vinatieri and outside linebacker Willie McGinest at Gillette Stadium.

“This year was a little different, seeing Willie go, and Adam go. I was a rookie with Adam here. And Willie, I’ve won a lot of football games with him … It’s especially hard this year, seeing them leave. Those are my guys that you’ve won Super Bowls with.

"You get discouraged about it but you realize once they held up those jerseys with different colors, that’s it. They can’t help us win football games any more. So I have to help lead the guys that are here now to help us win football games next year.”

Bruschi also touched on his decision to return for an 11th NFL season.

"When the season ended and we lost in Denver, it was 'how do I feel?' I saw my doctors and talked to my wife [Heidi] about it, took inventory a little for a few weeks, and I still feel good. Now that I'm in my 11th year, you have to see how you are at the end of the season. Not at the end of the season, but take a little while to recover and see how you feel about it. Are you still fired up about it, about football.

"I discovered I'm still fired up about football. I'm ready to play a lot more."

 

[Serenity Now]

Bottom line is, you know, I bet he had a lot of his lunch money taken from him in sixth grade. And you know what? And you know what? I’d have had all his quarters. - Ron Borges, On ESPN Boston, 01/06/06, speaking of Bill Belichick

Belichick will not be so lucky. He doesn't have (Jimmy) Johnson's personality, which can be as jovial and charming as a snake oil salesman's. Worse, this Patriot team isn't going to win two Super Bowls any time soon... - Ron Borges, Boston Globe, 11/22/01

On a day when they could have had impact players David Terrell or Koren Robinson or the second-best tackle in the draft in Kenyatta Walker, they took Georgia defensive tackle Richard Seymour, who had 1 sacks last season in the pass-happy SEC and is too tall to play tackle at 6-6 and too slow to play defensive end. This genius move was followed by trading out of a spot where they could have gotten the last decent receiver in Robert Ferguson and settled for tackle Matt Light, who will not help any time soon. - Ron Borges, MSNBC after 2001 Draft.

Way to go, Borges!

 

[nerangers]

Bruschi remains at core

Also...

Vinatieri was frustrated by many months of what he thought were fruitless negotiations with the Patriots and he appeared to have made up his mind to seek another team, according to one of his former Patriot teammates who asked to remain anonymous. Vinatieri was also enamored with his family living in the Midwest and dealing with climate-controlled conditions at the RCA Dome, where he's 10 for 10 in his career.

''By the time the Patriots got serious, I think the horse was out of the barn," said one of Vinatieri's ex-Patriot teammates

 

[Boston]

Bruschi remains at core

Also...

Vinatieri was frustrated by many months of what he thought were fruitless negotiations with the Patriots and he appeared to have made up his mind to seek another team, according to one of his former Patriot teammates who asked to remain anonymous. Vinatieri was also enamored with his family living in the Midwest and dealing with climate-controlled conditions at the RCA Dome, where he's 10 for 10 in his career.

''By the time the Patriots got serious, I think the horse was out of the barn," said one of Vinatieri's ex-Patriot teammates

From what I'm hearing the combination of this and the fact the Patriots were tiring of his whining (I heard he was pretty vocal internally with his complaining although you'll never hear the Pats say this, that's not how they operate) about his contract had this transaction much more on the fast track than many Patriot fans knew. In the end I don't think either party was unhappy with this divorce. Hopefully it works out for the Pats because he's obviously not an easy guy to replace.