Pat' off season and next year (1 Viewer)

[Boston]

The only place we really disagree is on Pass. Last year the Pats got bit in the butt only carrying three RBs. I don't see them making that same mistake again (Mills probably won't get more than a handful of carries so I'm not including him). Pass is a quality, versatile backup who's still in his prime. I'd be extremely surprised if he doesn't make the team.

 

[Borat]

The only place we really disagree is on Pass. Last year the Pats got bit in the butt only carrying three RBs. I don't see them making that same mistake again (Mills probably won't get more than a handful of carries so I'm not including him). Pass is a quality, versatile backup who's still in his prime. I'd be extremely surprised if he doesn't make the team.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying that Pass won't make the team; I'm just saying that he isn't a lock, and will have to fight hard for a spot.

 

[Guru]

I was watching the NFL Network on Wednesday and their football scout guru, Mike Mayock, said that Chad Jackson would be one of the biggest impact rookies in 2006. He mentioned his work in mini-camps, his ability to pick up the offense and his speed.

 

[Borat]

I was watching the NFL Network on Wednesday and their football scout guru, Mike Mayock, said that Chad Jackson would be one of the biggest impact rookies in 2006. He mentioned his work in mini-camps, his ability to pick up the offense and his speed.

I hope you're right. That would be a huge boost for the offense.

 

[nerangers]

Wouldn't it be better (and easier) to just post a link to Mike Reiss's blog instead of copying & pasting every one of his updates?  Then maybe we could actually discuss the Patriots in this thread?

Just a suggestion.  I find this thread to be pretty boring, and kind of wish there was more actual back-and-forth discussion about the Pats instead of just a bunch of articles that you could read over at boston.com.

Not to mention that it's not very fair to Reiss.

No offense, nerangers.

None taken...I just been trying to get the information out there (one stop reading)....Reiss puts the most out there during the offseason. I visit five or six sites to get information from. I been cutting/pasting since I didn't know you could link to an individual blog entry. I just found out how this morning...so here goes:

Brady rated No. 1



Among NFL QBs, Brady at head of the class

I am sure none of us doubt Brady is #1!

 

[nerangers]

OL snapshot

Offensive line

STARTERS: Left tackle Matt Light (6th year), left guard Logan Mankins (2nd year), center Dan Koppen (4th year), right guard Stephen Neal (5th year), right tackle Nick Kaczur (2nd year)

RESERVES: Center/guard Brian Barthelmes (rookie), tackle Wesley Britt (1st year*), tackle Jon Doty (1st year*), tackle Brandon Gorin (5th year), tackle Randy Hand (rookie), center/guard Russ Hochstein (6th year), center/guard Gene Mruczkowski (4th year), tackle Ryan O’Callaghan (rookie), guard Nick Steitz (1st year*), guard Dan Stevenson (rookie), center/guard Ross Tucker (5th year), guard Billy Yates (3rd year)

2005 OFFENSIVE LINEMEN: Light, Mankins, Koppen, Neal, Gorin, Hochstein, Kaczur, Mruczkowski (8 games), Tucker (2 games), Yates (5 games), right tackle Tom Ashworth

2006 ROSTER LOCKS: Light, Mankins, Koppen, Neal, Hochstein, Kaczur

OUTLOOK: The health of center Dan Koppen (shoulder surgery) is of primary importance to the offensive line. Koppen didn’t participate in team drills during June’s mandatory minicamp, and if he’s not available, that likely elevates Russ Hochstein into the starting role. Right tackle appears to be the one position in which there is no clear-cut starter. Second-year man Nick Kaczur is the leading candidate, but Brandon Gorin and Wesley Britt are also possibilities. With Kaczur and Gorin not working in team drills during June’s minicamp, Britt, a practice squad player in 2005, stepped forward. On the other side, Light locks down the left tackle spot, with Kaczur able to play there if necessary. The front-line guard spots are well manned with the return of Mankins and Neal, both of whom started every game in 2005. Some of the more heated competition will be for projected back-end roster spots. The Patriots project to keep about nine linemen, which means Britt, Gorin and Ryan O’Callaghan will vie for 1-2 roster spots at tackle, while Ross Tucker, Gene Mruczkowski, Billy Yates and Dan Stevenson compete for 1-2 roster spots as interior players. Brian Barthelmes, Jon Doty, Randy Hand and Nick Steitz are longer shots.

QUOTE OF NOTE: “We have a young line, and you hope it stays together. There really is something to be said for a group of guys that have had years of experience together. They know what’s expected of them, they know what the staff expects of them, and they know the way we do things up here. That’s half the battle.” –- Matt Light (Boston Globe, May 10, 2006)

 

[nerangers]

News out of New England...

team signed their sixth round pick, defensive lineman Le Kevin Smith

Patriot Rookie Contracts

Like to see the top three picks get signed now.

Specialists snapshot

I thought bringing in Gramatica definitely provided a veteran for training camp at next to nothing in cost. When everyone talked about him kicking in the cold in New England, I kept thinking to myself he will won't be there by then. I know I been pimping Stephen Gostkowski even before the draft, but I think he will be the real deal for the Pats.

 

[nerangers]

If he comes out of retirement, he will have to go play for the cowboys.

Ex-Patriot player, wife arrested after scrap

Ted Johnson retired last July after 10 years with the team because of complications with head injuries he had sustained. He was a staff analyst for WBZ-TV (Channel 4) last season.

 

[nerangers]

Ty Law info....I don't think the Pats will counter....

Ty Law reunites with Edwards in Kansas City

and

LAW CLOSE WITH CHIEFS: The Boston Globe’s Nick Cafardo, in a mid-day update on Boston.com, reports that free-agent cornerback Ty Law is close on a five-year deal with the Chiefs worth more than $30 million. The report states that the Patriots will have a chance to make an offer of their own before Law makes his decision.

 

[nerangers]

Chad Jackson is signed!!!

Mincey too...

Patriots agree to deals with draft picks Jackson, Mincey

Three more to go...

RB Laurence Maroney

TE David Thomas

K Stephen Gostkowski (I figured this one would have been an easy one for them...)

 

[nerangers]

from boston.com

D-line snapshot

also, some more news on Branch:

Branch taking some hits from his own team

For the second straight year the Patriots face the likelihood of a player holdout. I think this might change his mind though:

Branch is trying to decide what his next move will be. He had, according to several teammates, decided he would follow Seymour's example and hold out, but that was when the cost was one-third of what it now will be. If he were to hold out for even 10 days he would surrender more than 10 percent of his salary. If it were to last throughout training camp, he would have lost $630,000, more than 60 percent of his present deal. Now that's coercion.

 

[nerangers]

July 20, 2006

Pats waive Roehl

Offensive tackle Jeff Roehl, a longshot to make the team's 53-man roster, was waived today.

The 26-year-old Roehl (6-4, 300) was allocated to NFL Europe by the Patriots this year. He was originally signed by the New York Giants as a non-drafted rookie free agent out of Northwestern in 2003.

Roehl signed with the Patriots on Jan. 6, 2005 and was released prior to the start of the 2005 season. He was re-signed by the team on Jan. 30, 2006.

He was picked up by the Eagles in case anyone cares...

 

[Boston]

Here's the biggest question I currently have...

The Pats always spend to the cap...the Pats have a boatload of cap space...what are they going to do with that space?

Unless something comes totally out of rightfield the only thing I can think of is extendeing guys like Samuel, Koppen and Branch and taking the hit this year. Other than that I just don't see how they can use up that money (especially with Law now out of the mix).

 

[nerangers]

Here's the biggest question I currently have...

The Pats always spend to the cap...the Pats have a boatload of cap space...what are they going to do with that space?

Unless something comes totally out of rightfield the only thing I can think of is extendeing guys like Samuel, Koppen and Branch and taking the hit this year.  Other than that I just don't see how they can use up that money (especially with Law now out of the mix).

I was wondering if they were holding off on Branch to see what it might cost to get Law...like to see if Branch gets his deal done now. Maybe there is a FA out there worthy of the Pats going after? This makes it sound like it is a done deal with Law:

Chiefs | Team agrees with T. Law

Sun, 23 Jul 2006 16:57:31 -0700

KCChiefs.com reports the Kansas City Chiefs have reached an agreement in principle with free agent CB Ty Law (Jets). The two sides reached an agreement on a five-year contract. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Chiefs | Team close to deal with Law

Sun, 23 Jul 2006 13:17:12 -0700

Nick Cafardo, of the Boston Globe, reports the Kansas City Chiefs are close to a deal with free agent CB Ty Law (Jets). The five-year deal is believed to be worth more than $30 million. According to an NFL source, the New England Patriots will have one final chance to match or exceed the Chiefs' offer. The Patriots extended an offer to Law, but at a level below what the Chiefs offered.

 

[Borat]

Here's the biggest question I currently have...

The Pats always spend to the cap...the Pats have a boatload of cap space...what are they going to do with that space?

Unless something comes totally out of rightfield the only thing I can think of is extendeing guys like Samuel, Koppen and Branch and taking the hit this year. Other than that I just don't see how they can use up that money (especially with Law now out of the mix).

Good question. With all that cap space, I thought we really had a good shot at bringing Law back. Oh well.I could see using some of this year's cap space to re-sign Branch. I'm not sure if they'd do that with Koppen, only because he may not even be ready to start the season. I'm not sure they'd give him an extension until he could show that he's back to full strength. As for Samuel, I think it really depends on how much money he's looking for. I think he's at his best as a nickelback, but he'll be looking for #1 or #2 cornerback money. I like Samuel, but I'm not sold on him as being any higher than a #2 (although obviously he's our best cornerback right now).

Moroney still has to sign, but there will still be a pretty big surplus. I think in hindsight, with the cap higher than originally expected, the team probably would have offered McGinest or Givens a little more money to stay.

 

[nerangers]

Here's the biggest question I currently have...

The Pats always spend to the cap...the Pats have a boatload of cap space...what are they going to do with that space?

Unless something comes totally out of rightfield the only thing I can think of is extendeing guys like Samuel, Koppen and Branch and taking the hit this year.  Other than that I just don't see how they can use up that money (especially with Law now out of the mix).

Good question. With all that cap space, I thought we really had a good shot at bringing Law back. Oh well.I could see using some of this year's cap space to re-sign Branch. I'm not sure if they'd do that with Koppen, only because he may not even be ready to start the season. I'm not sure they'd give him an extension until he could show that he's back to full strength. As for Samuel, I think it really depends on how much money he's looking for. I think he's at his best as a nickelback, but he'll be looking for #1 or #2 cornerback money. I like Samuel, but I'm not sold on him as being any higher than a #2 (although obviously he's our best cornerback right now).

Moroney still has to sign, but there will still be a pretty big surplus. I think in hindsight, with the cap higher than originally expected, the team probably would have offered McGinest or Givens a little more money to stay.

hindsight is 20/20 with McGinest and Givens. Isn't Graham's contract up at the end of this season?

 

[nerangers]

According to Reiss' blog, all of the rookies are signed but Maroney.

Pats signings

The Patriots announced the signings of four of their 2006 draft choices: wide receiver Chad Jackson, tight end David Thomas, placekicker Stephen Gostkowski and outside linebacker Jeremy Mincey.

I have not been able to find it on any other sites though...assuming it was announced on the radio or something. Also, the Pats are putting five players on PUP including Harrison, Koppen and Kaczur.

 

[Boston]

Here's the biggest question I currently have...

The Pats always spend to the cap...the Pats have a boatload of cap space...what are they going to do with that space?

Unless something comes totally out of rightfield the only thing I can think of is extendeing guys like Samuel, Koppen and Branch and taking the hit this year.  Other than that I just don't see how they can use up that money (especially with Law now out of the mix).

Good question. With all that cap space, I thought we really had a good shot at bringing Law back. Oh well.I could see using some of this year's cap space to re-sign Branch. I'm not sure if they'd do that with Koppen, only because he may not even be ready to start the season. I'm not sure they'd give him an extension until he could show that he's back to full strength. As for Samuel, I think it really depends on how much money he's looking for. I think he's at his best as a nickelback, but he'll be looking for #1 or #2 cornerback money. I like Samuel, but I'm not sold on him as being any higher than a #2 (although obviously he's our best cornerback right now).

Moroney still has to sign, but there will still be a pretty big surplus. I think in hindsight, with the cap higher than originally expected, the team probably would have offered McGinest or Givens a little more money to stay.

The issue with Samuel is if you let him get to free agency you can kiss him goodbye. There's not a doubt in my mind that another team will overpay for his services. It's pretty common with the CB position. Therefore if you feel he's part of the future the time to sign him is now. If not, it will cost you millions more to do so or you will lose him. The same situation also applies to Graham although with the addition of Thomas they seem more prepared to move on from him if that's there plan.The Pats are pretty much untouchable but they will feel a ton of heat if the season is rocky and there's a big amount of cap space left on the table. That is one area where the natives will get restless.

 

[Bri]

Here's the biggest question I currently have...

The Pats always spend to the cap...the Pats have a boatload of cap space...what are they going to do with that space?

Unless something comes totally out of rightfield the only thing I can think of is extendeing guys like Samuel, Koppen and Branch and taking the hit this year. Other than that I just don't see how they can use up that money (especially with Law now out of the mix).

Branch?

 

[nerangers]

ILB snapshot

(Ninth in a series of position snapshots leading into Patriots training camp, July 28)

 

[nerangers]

Here's the biggest question I currently have...

The Pats always spend to the cap...the Pats have a boatload of cap space...what are they going to do with that space?

Unless something comes totally out of rightfield the only thing I can think of is extendeing guys like Samuel, Koppen and Branch and taking the hit this year.  Other than that I just don't see how they can use up that money (especially with Law now out of the mix).

Branch?

I am sure that is being worked on...I still don't believe he will hold out of camp because of the fines it will cost him, but I am sure his Agent wants to get the deal done before going into camp.You are right that they are better prepared for Graham's departure if it happens. Do you think this cost him some bargining power? Watson is proven, but Thomas and Mills are not. This season could make or break D Graham.

 

[Bri]

Here's the biggest question I currently have...

The Pats always spend to the cap...the Pats have a boatload of cap space...what are they going to do with that space?

Unless something comes totally out of rightfield the only thing I can think of is extendeing guys like Samuel, Koppen and Branch and taking the hit this year.  Other than that I just don't see how they can use up that money (especially with Law now out of the mix).

Branch?

I am sure that is being worked on...I still don't believe he will hold out of camp because of the fines it will cost him, but I am sure his Agent wants to get the deal done before going into camp.You are right that they are better prepared for Graham's departure if it happens. Do you think this cost him some bargining power? Watson is proven, but Thomas and Mills are not. This season could make or break D Graham.

I'm afraid we might try and trade Graham before the season ends if the rooks look good. Afraid because I really like the guy alot and don't want to lose him. With Ben's emergence and drafting a plethora of TEs that have been receiving praise since the second they stepped on the practice field,....it's hard to believe they'll see keeping him as a need.In contrast, I don't want us to pay Branch big money and don't care if he walks. Fortunately/unfortunately he may have to "test the market" to find out his real value. The whispers I hear are that he thinks he's the next Rice or somesuch and well until his agent loses those thoughts negotiations will be a waste of time.

In hindsight, with all the money now, I wish we kept Andruzzi and don't understand why they deemed Viantieri too expensive or just didn't want to pay him big $ again.

I expected more vets to get cut in early June. I wonder if they did.

IIRC we have alot of FAs coming up in 07. I suppose re-signing them and "eating"t he salary cap bonus this year is the best option right now. Just wish we got one more WR or another veteran S in case Harrison doesn't come back like his ol' self.

 

[nerangers]

Was just looking over the Ty Law Deal...five-year contract on Monday worth up to $31.5 million. The Pats offered two-year $11 million if all incentives were reached. The KC deal gives Ty almost 8 million for just stepping on the field this year. No surprise why he went with KC.Did the Pats really think they would get Law with that contract, or did they not think KC was that serious? I think Law could have added to the Pats definitely, but don't think the Pats would have done more than a three year contract max.Also for the Graham discussion, I would not rule him out as a Pat just yet. Mills is supposed to be more of a FB (plus Patrick Pass is on the PUP list, correct?), and the Pats like a two-TE set, so have three good TEs in Watson, Thomas, and Graham is not so out of the norm is it? Could either Watson or Graham line up as a WR? I think the ball will be in Graham's court. The Pats will set the going price, and it will be up to him to accept it or test the market.Edit:The Pats offer:

Patriots | Team made a solid offer to Law; just not good enoughTue, 25 Jul 2006 17:02:41 -0700Adam Schefter, of the NFL Network, reports the New England Patriots offered CB Ty Law a front-loaded deal that included $7 million this year, and $2 million next year. But the $9 million over two years was $3 million less than the Chiefs were offering over the first two years of the deal, and thus Law opted to sign with the Kansas City Chiefs.

 

[nerangers]

I don't think Brown would be the #2...I have always figured he would be #3 for the Pats.

Patriots | Brown wants to start

Tue, 25 Jul 2006 05:54:11 -0700

John Tomase, of the Boston Herald, reports New England Patriots WR Troy Brown has the desire to line up every play this season as the team's number two receiver. "I'm pushing whoever's lined up in front of me," Brown said. "It's my job to earn a starting spot. That doesn't mean it's going to happen, but you better know where I'm at. Don't slip up on your game, because I'm right behind you."

 

[nerangers]

This should help both Dillon and Maroney...competition is good!

Patriots | Maroney ready to earn his spot

Tue, 25 Jul 2006 05:40:58 -0700

John Tomase, of the Boston Herald, reports New England Patriots rookie RB Laurence Maroney is going to push RB Corey Dillon at training camp. He realizes he will have to earn his spot from the bottom up. "If I have to start at the bottom, that's where I'll start," Maroney said. "There's no gimmes in this league. Everything is so fast, it takes a while to learn how things are called here, but with a little bit of hard work and dedication, I'll be fine."

 

[nerangers]

I was a little surprise to see that Chad Jackson did not get some sort of signing bonus.

Rookie Payouts

Chad Jackson's rookie deal with the Patriots is a four-year package that doesn't include a signing bonus. Jackson will be paid a $452,000 roster bonus and has a $1.64 million option bonus, which is probably payable in March. He receives $90,000 workout bonuses in both 2008 and 2009, and $250,000 of his base salary is guaranteed in 2007. He also has a $100,000 bonus for winning the Rookie of the Year. ... Kicker Stephen Gostkowski's four-year deal includes a $425,000 signing bonus and incentives that could increase the base salary in the final year. ... Outside linebacker Jeremy Mincey's three-year deal includes a $68,200 signing bonus. ... Most rookie deals across the NFL include minimum salaries in each year

.

 

[nerangers]

D. Branch holdout, Are Branch and his agent both idiots? - Football Guy discussion thread on Branch holding out.



CB snapshot

(Tenth in a series of position snapshots leading into Patriots training camp, July 28)

 

[Borat]

I'm afraid we might try and trade Graham before the season ends if the rooks look good.

Graham isn't going anywhere. I thought it was ridiculous when people around here were discussing that absurd trade rumor earlier in the offseason, and it's absurd now. I realize that everyone has fallen in love with Ben Watson, but the fact remains that Daniel Graham is still this team's best overall tight end. He is easily the best blocking tight end (possibly the best in the league). People gave a lot of credit to the offensive line for holding it together through the Light and Koppen injuries last season (and rightfully so), but Graham was a huge, huge part of that.He'll be in New England all the way through 2006, and if the price is right, I'm sure Belichick & co. would absolutely love to have him here beyond this season, even with the two new rookies on board.

 

[Borat]

The issue with Samuel is if you let him get to free agency you can kiss him goodbye. There's not a doubt in my mind that another team will overpay for his services. It's pretty common with the CB position. Therefore if you feel he's part of the future the time to sign him is now. If not, it will cost you millions more to do so or you will lose him. The same situation also applies to Graham although with the addition of Thomas they seem more prepared to move on from him if that's there plan.

I agree with having to re-sign Samuel now if you want to keep him around. I have no doubt that another team will be willing to step up and overpay for him once he hits the open market. But he and his agent also know that, so I think the Pats will have to pay him very well if they want to extend his contract before it expires.The Pats have long had the philosophy of setting a ceiling price for free agents (or free agents-to-be) and committing to not going over that ceiling price. I think Samuel's situation will be a very interesting case study on that philosophy.

 

[nerangers]

I'm afraid we might try and trade Graham before the season ends if the rooks look good.

Graham isn't going anywhere. I thought it was ridiculous when people around here were discussing that absurd trade rumor earlier in the offseason, and it's absurd now. I realize that everyone has fallen in love with Ben Watson, but the fact remains that Daniel Graham is still this team's best overall tight end. He is easily the best blocking tight end (possibly the best in the league). People gave a lot of credit to the offensive line for holding it together through the Light and Koppen injuries last season (and rightfully so), but Graham was a huge, huge part of that.He'll be in New England all the way through 2006, and if the price is right, I'm sure Belichick & co. would absolutely love to have him here beyond this season, even with the two new rookies on board.

Totally agree....I think Garrett Mills was drafted to take Patrick Pass' place. Plus Graham is a proven commodity. Thomas hasn't even stepped onto the NFL field of play yet. Blocking is also a key factor, and Graham can definitely block.

It case it got lost in one of my other posts....could one of them maybe be moved over to WR? Not like we don't need the help.

 

[Borat]

I'm afraid we might try and trade Graham before the season ends if the rooks look good.

Graham isn't going anywhere. I thought it was ridiculous when people around here were discussing that absurd trade rumor earlier in the offseason, and it's absurd now. I realize that everyone has fallen in love with Ben Watson, but the fact remains that Daniel Graham is still this team's best overall tight end. He is easily the best blocking tight end (possibly the best in the league). People gave a lot of credit to the offensive line for holding it together through the Light and Koppen injuries last season (and rightfully so), but Graham was a huge, huge part of that.He'll be in New England all the way through 2006, and if the price is right, I'm sure Belichick & co. would absolutely love to have him here beyond this season, even with the two new rookies on board.

Totally agree....I think Garrett Mills was drafted to take Patrick Pass' place. Plus Graham is a proven commodity. Thomas hasn't even stepped onto the NFL field of play yet. Blocking is also a key factor, and Graham can definitely block.

It case it got lost in one of my other posts....could one of them maybe be moved over to WR? Not like we don't need the help.

I'm pretty sure Belichick has already addressed this question and stated that Watson would play TE, but it was a few weeks back and I don't have a link. I'm sure you'll see him line up at TE and motion out into the slot plenty of times this season, however.

 

[Bri]

"afraid"

 

[Borat]

"afraid"

 

[Bri]

"afraid"

I'm afraid it will happen, not saying it's likely. I'd rather keep him too.It's tough to explain all the TE picks though. I know we draft one every year because....well Pioli is just plain weird like that but, it's hard to understand what the plan is at the TE position

 

[Borat]

"afraid"

I'm afraid it will happen, not saying it's likely. I'd rather keep him too.It's tough to explain all the TE picks though. I know we draft one every year because....well Pioli is just plain weird like that but, it's hard to understand what the plan is at the TE position

The Pats run a two-TE offense. Right now, we have three TEs plus a guy who can play TE or FB. I know a lot of people might disagree, but when your base offense is a two-TE set, I don't think it's crazy to carry four of them.

 

[nerangers]

Safeties snapshot

(Eleventh and final part in a series of position snapshots leading into Patriots training camp, July 28)

This article covers what the Pats will be looking at once Camp starts Friday:

Patriots have some positions up for grabs at training camp (full article)

 

[nerangers]

Was looking at the PUP list and saw Chad Jackson on it...anyone know why???

The team also released its physically unable to perform list. Players on the list include: receiver Bam Childress, cornerback Randall Gay, safety Rodney Harrison, receiver Chad Jackson, offensive lineman Nick Kaczur, center Dan Koppen, fullback/running back Patrick Pass, long snapper Lonie Paxton, and defensive linemen Richard Seymour and Johnathan Sullivan.

Also, saw that the Pats resigned linebacker Chad Brown and released linebacker Ryan Claridge and defensive lineman Kader Drame. Also re-signed exclusive rights free agent offensive linemen Gene Mruczkowski and Billy Yates.

and of course we all know Branch is holding out...



Branch not reporting to camp (full article)

 

[Boston]

I find the Claridge release this early to be a big surprise. The fact they didn't add too much in the LB depth department this offseason made it easy to think Claridge figured into their plans. I'n very concerned about their LB depth right now. There are a whole lotta questions marks and this is an incredibly important position in the Patriot system. I'm crossing my fingers that this move means they like what they see in guys like Roach, Mincey, Alexander and Mays but expecting them to produce this year is really asking a lot.

I wonder if Claridge's release is somehow tied into the fact he didn't rehab or spend time with the team last year. It was basically a wasted year as far as football was concerned. If I remember correctly he was dealing with his brother's death so maybe he's lost the drive to play which is totally acceptable when dealing with such a horrible tragedy.

 

[Borat]

Was looking at the PUP list and saw Chad Jackson on it...anyone know why???

The team also released its physically unable to perform list. Players on the list include: receiver Bam Childress, cornerback Randall Gay, safety Rodney Harrison, receiver Chad Jackson, offensive lineman Nick Kaczur, center Dan Koppen, fullback/running back Patrick Pass, long snapper Lonie Paxton, and defensive linemen Richard Seymour and Johnathan Sullivan.

Also, saw that the Pats resigned linebacker Chad Brown and released linebacker Ryan Claridge and defensive lineman Kader Drame. Also re-signed exclusive rights free agent offensive linemen Gene Mruczkowski and Billy Yates.

and of course we all know Branch is holding out...



Branch not reporting to camp (full article)

The PUP list doesn't concern me at all until the season starts. I wouldn't sweat it.

 

[Borat]

I find the Claridge release this early to be a big surprise. The fact they didn't add too much in the LB depth department this offseason made it easy to think Claridge figured into their plans. I'n very concerned about their LB depth right now. There are a whole lotta questions marks and this is an incredibly important position in the Patriot system. I'm crossing my fingers that this move means they like what they see in guys like Roach, Mincey, Alexander and Mays but expecting them to produce this year is really asking a lot.

I wonder if Claridge's release is somehow tied into the fact he didn't rehab or spend time with the team last year. It was basically a wasted year as far as football was concerned. If I remember correctly he was dealing with his brother's death so maybe he's lost the drive to play which is totally acceptable when dealing with such a horrible tragedy.

I was also pretty surprised by Claridge's release. But you know what surprised me just as much, if not more? The fact that they re-signed Chad Brown.

 

[nerangers]

The last one signed....

Patriots | Contract update: L. Maroney

Thu, 27 Jul 2006 23:33:57 -0700

ESPN.com's John Clayton reports New England Patriots rookie RB Laurence Maroney will sign a five-year, $8 million contract with the team.

 

[nerangers]

Was looking at the PUP list and saw Chad Jackson on it...anyone know why??? 

The team also released its physically unable to perform list. Players on the list include: receiver Bam Childress, cornerback Randall Gay, safety Rodney Harrison, receiver Chad Jackson, offensive lineman Nick Kaczur, center Dan Koppen, fullback/running back Patrick Pass, long snapper Lonie Paxton, and defensive linemen Richard Seymour and Johnathan Sullivan.

Also, saw that the Pats resigned linebacker Chad Brown and released linebacker Ryan Claridge and defensive lineman Kader Drame.  Also re-signed exclusive rights free agent offensive linemen Gene Mruczkowski and Billy Yates.

and of course we all know Branch is holding out...



Branch not reporting to camp (full article)

The PUP list doesn't concern me at all until the season starts. I wouldn't sweat it.

Well I know Thomas Jones was put on PUP due to a Hammy...was curious for the reason for Jackson? I am guessing it is nothing serious since we did not hear anything about it, but with Branch holding out, would be nice to know why Jackson can't perform right now.

from boston.com:  Players on the PUP list can not participate in practice but can take part in team meetings and rehabilitation work. Once taken off the PUP list, players can begin practicing immediately.

 

[Boston]

I find the Claridge release this early to be a big surprise.  The fact they didn't add too much in the LB depth department this offseason made it easy to think Claridge figured into their plans.  I'n very concerned about their LB depth right now.  There are a whole lotta questions marks and this is an incredibly important position in the Patriot system.  I'm crossing my fingers that this move means they like what they see in guys like Roach, Mincey, Alexander and Mays but expecting them to produce this year is really asking a lot.

I wonder if Claridge's release is somehow tied into the fact he didn't rehab or spend time with the team last year.  It was basically a wasted year as far as football was concerned.  If I remember correctly he was dealing with his brother's death so maybe he's lost the drive to play which is totally acceptable when dealing with such a horrible tragedy.

I was also pretty surprised by Claridge's release. But you know what surprised me just as much, if not more? The fact that they re-signed Chad Brown.

Agreed...he was worthless last year.

 

[Boston]

Jackson is on the PUP due to a minor hamstring issue. They are playing it safe but his agent said in the Herald that he'll be practicing within a few days.

 

[nerangers]

Camp Notes:

Friday Morning Session Notes (full article)

just some notes from reading the article:

Sounds like the morning session went better than the afternoon session - there was extra running involved in the afternoon session.

Deion Branch was a no show...Belichick wasn’t interested in talking about Branch at his post-practice press conference. Said he would only talk about players that were there. Sounds familiar from last year and Seymour.

Laurence Maroney was at practice, after just signing yesterday.

Many seemed impressed with TE David Thomas

With regard to Chad Brown: He struggled in the Patriots 3-4 system and will most likely be moved back to his more natural position as an edge-rusher on the outside.

Belichech's take on Ryan Claridge :“We felt like it was in the best interest of the team,” Belichick said in regards to releasing Claridge. “We had other players competitively that were ahead of him on the depth chart.”

Missing from Camp in the morning: WR Troy Brown, TE Daniel Graham and FB Garrett Mills.

Friday Afternoon Session Notes (full article)

The Patriots signed TE Walter Rasby; Release S Jarvis Herring

During passing drills, many hit the turf. Reche Caldwell struggled...

The defense was listed at who was hot for the day, the receivers on the who's not (no surprise with Branch, Brown, and Jackson not practicing)

Let's remember, it was day one! Many days to look forward to.

Some Links from Reiss' blog:

Welcome to Gillette

Personnel groupings

1st follow-up

Bill's take

Brown in, Light out

1st day, 2nd practice

Day 1 wrap

 

[Bri]

Bill's take

Preface-Bavaro has bounced around team to team each summer working with young TEs. He worked with Graham years ago and Shockey and Witten and...where will he be this year? Cleveland w/ Winslow? Well he's been quietly very effective and apparently is an excellent speaker to a young TE.Rasby might be there for Watson. His father used to coach at Wake Forest and then IIRC was the TE coach of the Skins for a brief period. He is not a good TE but he's a coaches son that plays as such and does everything "mechanically" right. I could soooo imagine that since(if) Bavaro won't go there this year, he wants to be a future coach and so BB brought him on.

 

[Borat]

A couple of notable tidbits worth discussing:

Laurence Maroney (along with Kevin Faulk, Ellis Hobbs, John Stone, Matt Shelton and Willie Andrews) has been working on returning punts.

In a move that I love, Eugene Wilson has been working at cornerback. Having been drafted as a CB, he's definitely worth a look over there.

 

[nerangers]

Day 2 wrap

Training Camp: Saturday morning notes (full article)

The defense also had some highlights of its own, most led by linebacker Tedy Bruschi. Bruschi made a handful of his usual big plays, although none was more noteworthy than his hit on rookie running back Maroney on a screen pass that left the top pick on the ground, dislodged from the football. Both players laughed off the big hit after practice, although it’s the second straight day the defensive leader has laid into the talented youngster.

Sounded like the media was trying to make something of this...I think they just want to prepare Maroney for what he will face against other teams. Sort of a right of passage from the Pats defense. Note on Marquise Hill – Hill limped off the field with a doctor during the morning session and did not return.

I am sure this is not helping Brady build a repor with his WR - With Brown, Branch and second-round pick Jackson all out, Tom Brady’s first unit of receivers in one team drill consisted of Caldwell and Stone.

Belichick continued to decline to talk about Branch’s contract holdout once again saying, “I’ll talk about the players that are here.”

 

[Boston]

Marquis Hill injured...now there's a surprise. Ol' Marquis is closing in on bust status and really needs to prove something this year. One, that he can contribute and two, he can stay healthy.

There's not a doubt in my mind that the Pats biggest exposure is front seven depth. If Guys like Wilfork, Warren, Colvin or Vrabel go down they could be in serious trouble unless an unknown quantity like Sullivan, LeKevin, Banta-Cain or Alexander steps up. I just don't understand why a few more bodies weren't brought in to supplement the current roster. They have plenty of cap space and it's a glaring need on paper.

 

[Borat]

Marquis Hill injured...now there's a surprise. Ol' Marquis is closing in on bust status and really needs to prove something this year. One, that he can contribute and two, he can stay healthy.

There's not a doubt in my mind that the Pats biggest exposure is front seven depth. If Guys like Wilfork, Warren, Colvin or Vrabel go down they could be in serious trouble unless an unknown quantity like Sullivan, LeKevin, Banta-Cain or Alexander steps up. I just don't understand why a few more bodies weren't brought in to supplement the current roster. They have plenty of cap space and it's a glaring need on paper.

A Wilfork injury would be pretty devastating, because I'm not even sure if we have another guy who could play the nose in the 3-4. I wouldn't be as worried about Warren, because there's always Jarvis Green. If Colvin or Vrabel went down, well... I don't really even want to think about that.