Patriots WRs, who will be coming back next season (1 Viewer)

[KellysHeroes]

Randy Moss:

I doubt Randy is a Pat next season... he has been just amazing this season and there will be a plenty of teams willing to pay him a boat load. Hes not getting any younger, so this will be his last chance too cash in on that HUGE contract. I can't see the Pats offering him more than 6 million a yr, and there will be teams offering him more than that; possibly coughnin up 8+ Mil.

Stallworth:

Take a look at his contract... there his no way the Pats pay him those Bonuses; he would be looking at 10+ million in 2008. Unless he resturctures that deal, he'll be released IMO.

3/11/2007: Signed a six-year, $33.1 million contract. The deal included a $1 million signing bonus. 2007: $700,000 (+ $100,000 per-game roster bonuses + $300,000 workout bonus), 2008: $1 million (+ $6 million option bonus due 2/25 + $2 million roster bonus due 3/1 + $1.6 million playing-time roster bonus + $400,000 workout bonus), 2009: $1 million (+ $2 million option bonus + $400,000 workout bonus + $1.6 million playing-time roster bonus), 2010-2012: $4 million (+ $500,000 workout bonuses), 2013: Free Agent

Ben Watson:

I'm sure on this one... 2.4 Million Bonus and then a 3.6 Million the next yr, so I think he will either be resigned to a new deal or released in 2009.

Welker:

No question this guy is coming back... way underpaid for what he brings to the table, hes only getting less than 2 Mil.

San Frans 2008 1st Round pick:

It will be real interesting what they do with this. This pick will be atleast a top 10, if not a top 5. If they lose both Moss and Stall; they might be temped to draft the best WR on the Board. They might Trade it away for a later 1st and a couple of 2nds.

Discuss

 

[Ron_Mexico]

New England will never pick a WR in the top 10.

They will either look to replacing the aging

Harrison, Bruschi or Seau with the pick,

or the more likely scenario is they move it, imo.

 

[Footballg]

moss will be back.

stallworth might not.

 

[-OZ-]

It's weird to say it, because the team is so good and would seem not to need more picks, but with the aging LBs and probable lack of WRs, moving down would be the best move.

Pats will probably trade the pick for a mid 1st + a 09 1st, and probably more.

 

[KellysHeroes]

New England will never pick a WR in the top 10.They will either look to replacing the agingHarrison, Bruschi or Seau with the pick,or the more likely scenario is they move it, imo.

They drafted Meriwether last yr; so Harrison's replacement is in place.... another option problem is Samuel, he wants a huge deal next yr... he says if they Tag him again he will sit out the 10 games in 08. So this team does have some needs, especially at LB like you pointed out.

 

[Ron_Mexico]

New England will never pick a WR in the top 10.They will either look to replacing the agingHarrison, Bruschi or Seau with the pick,or the more likely scenario is they move it, imo.

They drafted Meriwether last yr; so Harrison's replacement is in place.... another option problem is Samuel, he wants a huge deal next yr... he says if they Tag him again he will sit out the 10 games in 08. So this team does have some needs, especially at LB like you pointed out.

If I had to hazard a guess, I would say they trade down from the 49ers slot, and grab a LB and a replacement for Samuel, if I am not mistaken the Pats agreed not to tag him after this year.He will most likely be dealt.I think they will either restructure Stallworth's contract,or go after a FA along the lines of Drew Carter or Bryant Johnson.Moss, Watson and Welker will be on the squad next season..

 

[Exile]

However; they did lose both their 2nd and 3rd because the whole videotaping thing

They did? I thought it was their 1st if they make the playoffs, 2nd and 3rd if they don't. They made the playoffs, so...

 

[ratbast]

if it is top 5, they'll take the best blue-chip player for their system. It wont be a QB and I doubt it will be RB, WR. Linebacker would not be my guess because BB likes vets at backer. DB or DL most likely with OL a potential.

I would not be surprised if Moss re-upped and took a lighter contract to play with Brady.

 

[KellysHeroes]

Samuel had some clause in his contract... if he had a certain # of INTs or Play time time... he couldn't be Tagged again.

 

[KellysHeroes]

However; they did lose both their 2nd and 3rd because the whole videotaping thing

They did? I thought it was their 1st if they make the playoffs, 2nd and 3rd if they don't. They made the playoffs, so...

Yeap... thats right; my mistake.

 

[King of the Wolfies]

a couple of years with Brady would all but assure Moss an invite to the HOF. He'd be crazy to let a few million get in the way.

 

[LBH]

no way they let Moss walk out of there, and I highly doubt Moss has any interest in leaving. Stallworth is gone. He will cost too much money and easily replaced. Welker and Watson arent even worth talking about at this point. Im not sure what they will do with SFs 1st rder, and they probably dont either right now. In my opinion they might stay where they are and draft Mcfadden if they have a shot at him.

 

[-JAP-]

Does anyone honestly believe Moss would be having this kind of year w/out Brady. I think Moss knows this as well and will stay. Moss likes to be the STAR, and he shines w/ New England.

 

[Couch Potato]

Next year it will be Moss, Welker and Chad Jackson. Stallworth definitely gone.

 

[BBRULE]

Moss likes to be the STAR, and he shines w/ New England.

Which is why I could see him returning.

 

[Ghost Rider]

No way will the Patriots pay Stallworth what he think he will be worth after this season. He will be gone.

Moss will resign.

 

[encaitar]

No way will the Patriots pay Stallworth what he think he will be worth after this season. He will be gone. Moss will resign.

After this season, there is no way Moss is accepting less than 8 million per. Plus, at his age he'll want a 6 year contract or more. I can see him taking a slight paycut, but there's no way he signs for 2 million a year less. I agree that Stallworth is gone.

 

[Road Warriors]

Samuel had some clause in his contract... if he had a certain # of INTs or Play time time... he couldn't be Tagged again.

12 wins or 60% of the Def. plays. Looks to be a lock on the 12 wins.

 

[DropKick]

Next year it will be Moss, Welker and Chad Jackson. Stallworth definitely gone.

My thoughts exactly. Moss took a cut to come to NE and I thinks he likes the team around him; the success and everything else about the situation. Pats pay him; perhaps not the highest bidder but that might be fine with Moss.The defense could use that early 1st round pick.

 

[Road Warriors]

I'd expect to see Moss back on a slightly under market deal, I'm guessing somewhere in the 6-7 mil / yr range, somewhat frontloaded.

I don't think Donte will accept the type of restructure his deal will need to stick around ( but I'm OK with Gafney at my WR3 spot, if need be -- of course assuming he's still under contract )

I expect Watson back next year, but I'm not sure with the 3.6 mil hanging around for '09 if he'll make it that deep.

I think Samuel will be gone, and it will hurt.

And I won't begin to speculate what will happen with the SF 1st, other than it will very likely be something other than everyone else thinks they'll do ( and based on past results, I'm just fine with it )

 

[David Yudkin]

Moss will be back, you can take that one to the bank. Slightly below market value, but nowhere near $4.75 million as suggested.

Stallworth won't be playing for the amount he is due (he would be due $11 million for 2008).

Watson will likely be back if he signs an extension that spreads out the cap hit.

IMO, the main WRs will be Moss, Welker, Gafney, Jackson unless Stallworth comes back for pretty cheap.

IMO, Colvin will be likely be gone (think he's due close to $8 million).

IMO, Samuel will sign with the highest bidder, which probably won't be NE. They could have signed him for way less last year.

 

[RC94]

Moss will be back, you can take that one to the bank. Slightly below market value, but nowhere near $4.75 million as suggested.Stallworth won't be playing for the amount he is due (he would be due $11 million for 2008).Watson will likely be back if he signs an extension that spreads out the cap hit.IMO, the main WRs will be Moss, Welker, Gafney, Jackson unless Stallworth comes back for pretty cheap. IMO, Colvin will be likely be gone (think he's due close to $8 million).IMO, Samuel will sign with the highest bidder, which probably won't be NE. They could have signed him for way less last year.

I agree with this.

 

[minister]

Moss will be back, you can take that one to the bank. Slightly below market value, but nowhere near $4.75 million as suggested.Stallworth won't be playing for the amount he is due (he would be due $11 million for 2008).Watson will likely be back if he signs an extension that spreads out the cap hit.IMO, the main WRs will be Moss, Welker, Gafney, Jackson unless Stallworth comes back for pretty cheap.IMO, Colvin will be likely be gone (think he's due close to $8 million).IMO, Samuel will sign with the highest bidder, which probably won't be NE. They could have signed him for way less last year.

I'm onside with almost all of this, but Moss is still an enigma to me.Success often has a funny effect on people. Double the effect on funny people?If Moss "the good" is in place I see him re-signing for (somewhat) less than market.If surly Moss rears his head, I can almost hear it now: "I've got my ring. I'm the greatest. I'm the reason. Pay me."

 

[David Yudkin]

Moss will be back, you can take that one to the bank. Slightly below market value, but nowhere near $4.75 million as suggested.Stallworth won't be playing for the amount he is due (he would be due $11 million for 2008).Watson will likely be back if he signs an extension that spreads out the cap hit.IMO, the main WRs will be Moss, Welker, Gafney, Jackson unless Stallworth comes back for pretty cheap. IMO, Colvin will be likely be gone (think he's due close to $8 million).IMO, Samuel will sign with the highest bidder, which probably won't be NE. They could have signed him for way less last year.

I'm onside with almost all of this, but Moss is still an enigma to me.Success often has a funny effect on people. Double the effect on funny people?If Moss "the good" is in place I see him re-signing for (somewhat) less than market.If surly Moss rears his head, I can almost hear it now: "I've got my ring. I'm the greatest. I'm the reason. Pay me."

I hear from very reliable sources that Moss isn't going anywhere, and there is a decent chance that they have already agreed to the framework of a new contract (but they can't announce it because Moss officially cannot have a new deal in place until this season is over). I suupose things could change between now and March, but I would say that the probability of Moss returning are extremely high.

 

[David Yudkin]

To go a little off topic, here is an article outlining what I have been saying for years . . . that the Pats don't normally invest much on draft day for linebackers (and thus are unlikely to take an early round LB).

Old boy network in place: At LB, Patriots prefer experience

By Mike Reiss, Globe Staff / November 29, 2007

It was Bill Belichick's third season as coach of the Cleveland Browns, in 1993, and Clay Matthews remembers one distinguishing trait among his fellow starting linebackers. If the NFL were a golf course, they were all on the back nine.

Matthews was in his 16th and final season with the Browns. Counting his time in the United States Football League, Mike Johnson also had double-digit years of pro experience. And then there was the free agent signee Pepper Johnson, who was in his eighth season.

In Matthews's view, Belichick put a high value on experience among his linebackers. It was something about the responsibilities of the linebackers in the detailed system that seemed to lend itself more to gray-haired veterans than hotshot rookies.

That appears to still be the case with Belichick and the Patriots.

In the wake of 30-year-old outside linebacker Rosevelt Colvin (foot) landing on season-ending injured reserve Tuesday, the Patriots could have turned exclusively to the youth on their roster in the form of backups Eric Alexander (third year) and Pierre Woods (second year), picking one to add to the five-man rotation that had been established.

Instead, they moved quickly to sign 37-year-old Chad Brown, with Belichick noting that Brown gives the Patriots "a level of depth and experience" that they are "fortunate to be able to have at this time of year."

To Matthews, the idea of turning to a veteran is consistent with what he experienced under Belichick, who often stresses the concept of team defense, with the linebackers the glue holding it together. Because of that, Matthews believes Belichick generally wants players who know some tricks of the trade.

"It's the type of situation where you might look at the individual parts and see some older guys who are not necessarily the fastest, but because of their experience they are less likely to make mistakes and are efficient at what they do," Matthews said. "You put all that together and the sum of the whole is greater than the individual parts."

The Patriots have nicely filled holes on their roster in recent years, and are seldom shy about turning to youth when they feel a player is ready. Yet if there is one position where that hasn't been the case, it is linebacker.

Part of the reason is that the Patriots have drafted few of them.

In the eight seasons in which Belichick and vice president of player personnel Scott Pioli have run the Patriots' football operation, seven linebackers have been selected by the team. One was in the fifth round, two in the sixth round, and four in the seventh round. Only one, 2007 seventh-rounder Oscar Lua, is still with the club (injured reserve). The biggest hit was 2003 seventh-rounder Tully Banta-Cain, who signed with the 49ers as a free agent last offseason.

Part of the reason for the lack of linebacker selections is that in the Patriots' 3-4 system, the outside 'backers are usually college defensive ends, making for a challenging projection for scouts.

more stories like thisBelichick also recently explained that another challenge in identifying linebackers, specifically inside linebackers, is determining how they will adjust to the pro passing game.

"It is a lot more sophisticated as it relates, especially, to the linebacker position," he said. "A player that can excel in the passing game at this level has a lot of value. I'm not sure in the college game there's as much of that. College is a lot more downfield throws, tear screens, plays to the perimeter. They don't have as many inside combinations like you see in a dropback passing game in the NFL."

So perhaps that explains why the Patriots have leaned more heavily on veterans at linebacker, as players such as Alexander and Woods - former undrafted free agents - continue to transition to the NFL game.

The linebacker position was a hot topic yesterday at Gillette Stadium, with players questioned on how the Patriots will adjust following the loss of Colvin.

Adalius Thomas, who moved outside to replace Colvin last Sunday night, said it "depends on what Coach sees fit." Brown said he's happy to be back and will do whatever is asked of him. Alexander said he'll be prepared for whatever opportunity comes his way. Woods referred all questions to Belichick.

Asked about the situation, Belichick said: "We certainly didn't want to lose Rosie, but that's where we're at so we'll just move on with what we have. Whatever we feel like is the best thing to do, we'll use those combinations of people."

Reflecting on his three years playing under Belichick in Cleveland, Matthews remembers those combinations being filled mostly with veteran players. He's not surprised the current Patriots have a similar look.

"A lot of it is not only understanding what you have to do, but what all your teammates have to do," he said. "That can be a lot harder for a younger player to grasp."

 

[KellysHeroes]

Moss will be back, you can take that one to the bank. Slightly below market value, but nowhere near $4.75 million as suggested.Stallworth won't be playing for the amount he is due (he would be due $11 million for 2008).Watson will likely be back if he signs an extension that spreads out the cap hit.IMO, the main WRs will be Moss, Welker, Gafney, Jackson unless Stallworth comes back for pretty cheap.IMO, Colvin will be likely be gone (think he's due close to $8 million).IMO, Samuel will sign with the highest bidder, which probably won't be NE. They could have signed him for way less last year.

I'm onside with almost all of this, but Moss is still an enigma to me.Success often has a funny effect on people. Double the effect on funny people?If Moss "the good" is in place I see him re-signing for (somewhat) less than market.If surly Moss rears his head, I can almost hear it now: "I've got my ring. I'm the greatest. I'm the reason. Pay me."

When Moss gets his ring and the season ends; he will have shown the world that he's a changed man.. hes a team player now and hes still the best WR in the league... his agent's phone is going to be ringing off the hook. They will point out that as good as Brady is, he has never even come close to these types of stats in his career. Now I don't think he'll ever sign with a team like Oakland again.. but a Decent Team with a PHAT checkbook will be offering TO like money (I think Owens gets over 8 mil a yr, at age 34)... a team like the GMen, Skins, Saints, Seahawks, Vikings (hey; new management... just thinking out load), Jags, etc have plenty of WR needs and a couple of them have written BIG checks for players. Now if the Pats lay a 4 too 5 yr offer worth 30 too 35 mil (7 million a yr; a million less than TO)... then I can see him giving in... but I don't see the Pats offering that type of money, I don't see them offering anymore than a 20 mil for 3 yrs... Can the Pats Tag him??? If yes then I believe they will use on Moss.Also remember, he will never ever be "The Star" in NE... Brady and BB will always be the Stars here... Randy Dandy will be an after thought.

 

[David Yudkin]

Moss will be back, you can take that one to the bank. Slightly below market value, but nowhere near $4.75 million as suggested.Stallworth won't be playing for the amount he is due (he would be due $11 million for 2008).Watson will likely be back if he signs an extension that spreads out the cap hit.IMO, the main WRs will be Moss, Welker, Gafney, Jackson unless Stallworth comes back for pretty cheap.IMO, Colvin will be likely be gone (think he's due close to $8 million).IMO, Samuel will sign with the highest bidder, which probably won't be NE. They could have signed him for way less last year.

I'm onside with almost all of this, but Moss is still an enigma to me.Success often has a funny effect on people. Double the effect on funny people?If Moss "the good" is in place I see him re-signing for (somewhat) less than market.If surly Moss rears his head, I can almost hear it now: "I've got my ring. I'm the greatest. I'm the reason. Pay me."

When Moss gets his ring and the season ends; he will have shown the world that he's a changed man.. hes a team player now and hes still the best WR in the league... his agent's phone is going to be ringing off the hook. They will point out that as good as Brady is, he has never even come close to these types of stats in his career. Now I don't think he'll ever sign with a team like Oakland again.. but a Decent Team with a PHAT checkbook will be offering TO like money (I think Owens gets over 8 mil a yr, at age 34)... a team like the GMen, Skins, Saints, Seahawks, Vikings (hey; new management... just thinking out load), Jags, etc have plenty of WR needs and a couple of them have written BIG checks for players. Now if the Pats lay a 4 too 5 yr offer worth 30 too 35 mil (7 million a yr; a million less than TO)... then I can see him giving in... but I don't see the Pats offering that type of money, I don't see them offering anymore than a 20 mil for 3 yrs... Can the Pats Tag him??? If yes then I believe they will use on Moss.Also remember, he will never ever be "The Star" in NE... Brady and BB will always be the Stars here... Randy Dandy will be an after thought.

I'm telling you that Moss isn't going anywhere. People can come up with 187 reasons why he will want to leave, but he'll stick around. I would be absolutely SHOCKED if he left town. As I mentioned, it is rumored through the grapevine that a framework for a deal with Moss has already been agreed upon.The Pats have no qualms paying top (or near the top) dollar for players they deem as elite talents. At this point even Adam Shefter has said there is only about a 1% chance that Moss is not a Patriot next year.

 

[twitch]

New England will never pick a WR in the top 10.

They will either look to replacing the aging

Harrison, Bruschi or Seau with the pick,

or the more likely scenario is they move it, imo.

They drafted Meriwether last yr; so Harrison's replacement is in place.... another option problem is Samuel, he wants a huge deal next yr... he says if they Tag him again he will sit out the 10 games in 08. So this team does have some needs, especially at LB like you pointed out.

Meriweather is only about 200 lbs. He doesnt have anything close to a Rodney Harrison/ strong saftety build. Definitely looks to be more of a future CB or a free safety in that secondary. Harrison is a big, physical, hard-hitting safety who matches up with TEs partly because of his great strength. But I think he'll be back next year anyway, so his replacement wont be needed in '08. I think it'll depend on how the season plays out. If they go all the way this year, I think alot of those question marks will again sacrifice potentially bigger paydays to take another shot at history. No team has ever won 5 Superbowls in such a short span. That would be the aim if they get it done this year. I think Moss is coming back to NE no matter what. He's found a home with this team, and with Brady. And that's been widely discussed. Stallworth and Gaffney are the biggies, imo. Watson will be taken care of. Gaffney seems to have a hard time finding a home with other teams. Id expect he'll want to stay if the money is reasonable. But again, he's another guy who may pass on potentially greater money to play for rings. And Stallworth will simply have to restructure. He's not putting up near the #s he's capable of. And he'd earn some nice coin on the market with teams where he'd no doubt have a greater role. It'll be entirely up to him. But in looking at both Gaffney and Stallworth, Id consider their ages. They both just turned 27. So, theyve got plenty of earning years left. And they can make money with any team. Going undefeated and winning a Superbowl is an opportunity far fewer teams provide. Stallworth is the guy most likely to leave. And if he does, it'll just open the door for Chad Jackson or Gaffney to step into that 2 role and run with it.

 

[greenline]

Randy Moss: I think will come back. If he wins the ring this year, I think he'll want to build a legacy. If he doesn't I think he def comes back on an incentive laden deal. Randy has already said he has all the money he needs.

Donte Stallworth: I don't think he comes back. I think they look to Chad jackson to play that role. If not, then Gaffney.

Ben Watson: Will be back. I'm not sure how the will re-structure his contract but they will.

Top 5 pick might be spent on James Lauranitis.

I think Meriweather might end up becoming a corner. James Sanders will probably take over at SS when Rodney Harrison is done.

I don't think Asante Samuel comes back either.

 

[greenline]

New England will never pick a WR in the top 10.

They will either look to replacing the aging

Harrison, Bruschi or Seau with the pick,

or the more likely scenario is they move it, imo.

They drafted Meriwether last yr; so Harrison's replacement is in place.... another option problem is Samuel, he wants a huge deal next yr... he says if they Tag him again he will sit out the 10 games in 08. So this team does have some needs, especially at LB like you pointed out.

Meriweather is only about 200 lbs. He doesnt have anything close to a Rodney Harrison/ strong saftety build. Definitely looks to be more of a future CB or a free safety in that secondary. Harrison is a big, physical, hard-hitting safety who matches up with TEs partly because of his great strength. But I think he'll be back next year anyway, so his replacement wont be needed in '08. I think it'll depend on how the season plays out. If they go all the way this year, I think alot of those question marks will again sacrifice potentially bigger paydays to take another shot at history. No team has ever won 5 Superbowls in such a short span. That would be the aim if they get it done this year. I think Moss is coming back to NE no matter what. He's found a home with this team, and with Brady. And that's been widely discussed. Stallworth and Gaffney are the biggies, imo. Watson will be taken care of. Gaffney seems to have a hard time finding a home with other teams. Id expect he'll want to stay if the money is reasonable. But again, he's another guy who may pass on potentially greater money to play for rings. And Stallworth will simply have to restructure. He's not putting up near the #s he's capable of. And he'd earn some nice coin on the market with teams where he'd no doubt have a greater role. It'll be entirely up to him. But in looking at both Gaffney and Stallworth, Id consider their ages. They both just turned 27. So, theyve got plenty of earning years left. And they can make money with any team. Going undefeated and winning a Superbowl is an opportunity far fewer teams provide. Stallworth is the guy most likely to leave. And if he does, it'll just open the door for Chad Jackson or Gaffney to step into that 2 role and run with it.

Is there really a #2 role on this team? That's not how they do things.

 

[twitch]

New England will never pick a WR in the top 10.

They will either look to replacing the aging

Harrison, Bruschi or Seau with the pick,

or the more likely scenario is they move it, imo.

They drafted Meriwether last yr; so Harrison's replacement is in place.... another option problem is Samuel, he wants a huge deal next yr... he says if they Tag him again he will sit out the 10 games in 08. So this team does have some needs, especially at LB like you pointed out.

Meriweather is only about 200 lbs. He doesnt have anything close to a Rodney Harrison/ strong saftety build. Definitely looks to be more of a future CB or a free safety in that secondary. Harrison is a big, physical, hard-hitting safety who matches up with TEs partly because of his great strength. But I think he'll be back next year anyway, so his replacement wont be needed in '08. I think it'll depend on how the season plays out. If they go all the way this year, I think alot of those question marks will again sacrifice potentially bigger paydays to take another shot at history. No team has ever won 5 Superbowls in such a short span. That would be the aim if they get it done this year. I think Moss is coming back to NE no matter what. He's found a home with this team, and with Brady. And that's been widely discussed. Stallworth and Gaffney are the biggies, imo. Watson will be taken care of. Gaffney seems to have a hard time finding a home with other teams. Id expect he'll want to stay if the money is reasonable. But again, he's another guy who may pass on potentially greater money to play for rings. And Stallworth will simply have to restructure. He's not putting up near the #s he's capable of. And he'd earn some nice coin on the market with teams where he'd no doubt have a greater role. It'll be entirely up to him. But in looking at both Gaffney and Stallworth, Id consider their ages. They both just turned 27. So, theyve got plenty of earning years left. And they can make money with any team. Going undefeated and winning a Superbowl is an opportunity far fewer teams provide. Stallworth is the guy most likely to leave. And if he does, it'll just open the door for Chad Jackson or Gaffney to step into that 2 role and run with it.

Is there really a #2 role on this team? That's not how they do things.

Gotcha. But you know what I mean. That 2nd non-slot starter opposite Moss. Ive got a gut feeling that if they win it all, Stallworth will come back for one more year. Which would mean after the '08 season, he's enter FA again only 28 years old. Still plenty of years left on those legs to warrant a high dollar contract from some other team. Just a guess.

 

[nyftbl_giants]

No way will the Patriots pay Stallworth what he think he will be worth after this season. He will be gone. Moss will resign.

Any Stallworth owners upset with this. I know I was expecting more production, and at Welkers price he isnt going anywhere so Id rather see him move on. Especially in PPR where just about anywhere he goes his numbers should go up.

 

[Bossman]

the Patriots were prepared to go into this season with Stallworth, Welker, Gaffney, Chad Jackson, Troy Brown and Kelley Washington.

Randy Moss was an afterthought that fell in thier laps at the draft.

I don't expect the Pats to pay Moss outragous money like some other teams will be offering, so it comes down to Moss playing for a "home team discount"...

if he gets his ring this year, I dont see that happening.

If Moss goes then they will pay Stallworth.

----------------------------

There is no way they pay top 5 money to a rookie.

They trade down to acquire more picks for this year and/or next year. Some team will fall in love with a certain QB or RB and the Pats will get a nice package.

A quality LB can be found later in the 1st rd.

.

 

[greenline]

Everyone says NE will trade down and because everyone thinks that, I think they stay right where they are.

 

[twitch]

Everyone says NE will trade down and because everyone thinks that, I think they stay right where they are.

And hopefully take one of 2 Ohio State defenders: either James Laurenaitis or Vernon Gholston. Gholston fits the profile of Vrabel, Colvin, Thomas. College DEnd with 3-4 size and skill. But Im sure theyll take someone none of us expect.

 

[KellysHeroes]

Moss will be 31 at the bieginning of next yr.. this is truly his last chance to get a huge contract... he might be a Good Boy now saying that he will expect a Home Town Discount.. but I'm just not buying it until its done. Someone will remind him that he should get as much money as he can while hes still playing.

 

[saintfool]

Next year it will be Moss, Welker and Chad Jackson. Stallworth definitely gone.

Gaffney is my pick for that. Jackson might as well be on the practice squad. Gaffney has shown a little something this season and will likely be cheap. They pay him next to nothing and re-signing him ought to be a breeze...

 

[greenline]

Everyone says NE will trade down and because everyone thinks that, I think they stay right where they are.

And hopefully take one of 2 Ohio State defenders: either James Laurenaitis or Vernon Gholston. Gholston fits the profile of Vrabel, Colvin, Thomas. College DEnd with 3-4 size and skill. But Im sure theyll take someone none of us expect.

LOL With the 3rd overall pick in the 2008 NFL draft, the New England Patriots select: Matt Ryan, QB - Boston College

 

[Workhorse]

Hey David, don't you think that the Pats will push hard for Colvin to restructure his deal/take a pay cut? He's a nice player but his marketability will be very limited as a free agent, coming off of yet another season ending injury and an overall disappointing run with New England. He's certainly not young anymore.

 

[twitch]

Moss will be 31 at the bieginning of next yr.. this is truly his last chance to get a huge contract... he might be a Good Boy now saying that he will expect a Home Town Discount.. but I'm just not buying it until its done. Someone will remind him that he should get as much money as he can while hes still playing.

Someone like who, the Niners? Are you kidding? Listen, you can think what you want about the guy. It seems your mind is pretty well made up. But he's been down that road before, and he's made plenty of money. Sometimes its just not about the money. Why is this so hard to understand?

 

[Sweeper]

I'd be willing to bet that Moss comes back.

He knows what is out there on other teams and I think he has stated enough times that he prefers winning over $$ and I think he is sincere.

Transitioning from the amazing offense of the Pats to any other offense would be too difficult of a transition for him.

We've seen get frustrated when he's losing and I don't think he'll forget his days in Oakland. If he has a chance to return and catch 20+ TD's next year, he'll jump at it.

 

[Bossman]

I'd be willing to bet that Moss comes back.He knows what is out there on other teams and I think he has stated enough times that he prefers winning over $$ and I think he is sincere.Transitioning from the amazing offense of the Pats to any other offense would be too difficult of a transition for him.We've seen get frustrated when he's losing and I don't think he'll forget his days in Oakland. If he has a chance to return and catch 20+ TD's next year, he'll jump at it.

you actually think Moss would sign with the Pats at, I don't know, $8 mil. per, vs a team like the Eagles or Giants for say $12 mil. per?I don't know the going rate for WR's so the numbers are only for example. I just don't see Moss... or many other players giving up that kind of money.(especially if he has his ring)

 

[KellysHeroes]

Moss will be 31 at the bieginning of next yr.. this is truly his last chance to get a huge contract... he might be a Good Boy now saying that he will expect a Home Town Discount.. but I'm just not buying it until its done. Someone will remind him that he should get as much money as he can while hes still playing.

Someone like who, the Niners? Are you kidding? Listen, you can think what you want about the guy. It seems your mind is pretty well made up. But he's been down that road before, and he's made plenty of money. Sometimes its just not about the money. Why is this so hard to understand?

I said in my other post that I doubt he would even consider Teams that are in these rebuilds... but take Redskins, Giants, Jags, Saints, and another decent Teams that has been noted to spend a lot... all I am saying is that Moss will be given plenty of offers after the season.

 

[moondawg]

TO will be 35 next season and will be in the last year of his deal . I would think if Moss makes it to free agency Jerry Jones will consider all his options. TO signed a 3 yr deal for 25M that is paid out in a roster bonus plus salary equal to around 8M a year. There was no signing bonus so TO can be released without a cap hit. Not saying it will happen just that it could happen.

 

[Sweeper]

I'd be willing to bet that Moss comes back.He knows what is out there on other teams and I think he has stated enough times that he prefers winning over $ and I think he is sincere.Transitioning from the amazing offense of the Pats to any other offense would be too difficult of a transition for him.We've seen get frustrated when he's losing and I don't think he'll forget his days in Oakland. If he has a chance to return and catch 20+ TD's next year, he'll jump at it.

you actually think Moss would sign with the Pats at, I don't know, $8 mil. per, vs a team like the Eagles or Giants for say $12 mil. per?I don't know the going rate for WR's so the numbers are only for example. I just don't see Moss... or many other players giving up that kind of money.(especially if he has his ring)

Brady did it. Stallworth took less money to play for the Pats. Dillon won't consider returning to any team but the Pats (and he has his ring). Yes, I think Moss will do what it takes to stay with the Pats (even at 20% less than his fmv).

 

[thehornet]

Randy Moss:

I doubt Randy is a Pat next season... he has been just amazing this season and there will be a plenty of teams willing to pay him a boat load. Hes not getting any younger, so this will be his last chance too cash in on that HUGE contract. I can't see the Pats offering him more than 6 million a yr, and there will be teams offering him more than that; possibly coughnin up 8+ Mil.

Stallworth:

Take a look at his contract... there his no way the Pats pay him those Bonuses; he would be looking at 10+ million in 2008. Unless he resturctures that deal, he'll be released IMO.

3/11/2007: Signed a six-year, $33.1 million contract. The deal included a $1 million signing bonus. 2007: $700,000 (+ $100,000 per-game roster bonuses + $300,000 workout bonus), 2008: $1 million (+ $6 million option bonus due 2/25 + $2 million roster bonus due 3/1 + $1.6 million playing-time roster bonus + $400,000 workout bonus), 2009: $1 million (+ $2 million option bonus + $400,000 workout bonus + $1.6 million playing-time roster bonus), 2010-2012: $4 million (+ $500,000 workout bonuses), 2013: Free Agent

Ben Watson:

I'm sure on this one... 2.4 Million Bonus and then a 3.6 Million the next yr, so I think he will either be resigned to a new deal or released in 2009.

Welker:

No question this guy is coming back... way underpaid for what he brings to the table, hes only getting less than 2 Mil.

San Frans 2008 1st Round pick:

It will be real interesting what they do with this. This pick will be atleast a top 10, if not a top 5. If they lose both Moss and Stall; they might be temped to draft the best WR on the Board. They might Trade it away for a later 1st and a couple of 2nds.

Discuss

they'll sign moss to somthing nice and he'll prob take a slight discount if the apts win it all. stallworth is gone. they wont pay him.

welker, def back.

they'll make do with the rest.

The Pats will not draft a high profile player with the San Fran pick. they will definately 100% trade down and have a late 1st round and another pick next year. it's just how they operate. no way, pioli and kraft crew pay top tier money for some punk rookie. just wont happen.

 

[David Yudkin]

Hey David, don't you think that the Pats will push hard for Colvin to restructure his deal/take a pay cut? He's a nice player but his marketability will be very limited as a free agent, coming off of yet another season ending injury and an overall disappointing run with New England. He's certainly not young anymore.

Colvin has been vocal about wanting to get paid, getting fair market value, and not buying into the home town discount plan. IIRC, he was in the Daniel Graham camp of giving the Pats one chance to give him a real offer, no other negotiating, and if not he'd be gone.That being said, he has one year left on his contract which I doubt the Pats will want to pay. Now that he is injured the team will exploit his injury in negotiating and I'm not sure Colvin will want to take even $1 less than he thinks he's worth (IMO, he's similar to Samuel in that regard).I don't know what will happen with Colvin, but I would think that he's on tenous ground and would be targeted as someone that could be expendable if other guys on the Pats need to get paid.

 

[softball]

Randy Moss goes to the highest bidder.

He is what he is, and won't be changing his stripes because he likes it in NE, that's laughable really.

The Pats will pay a fair market value ofr him, or he will be out of there faster than you can say; Free Agent.

The rumored structure of a new deal is interesting, could it be "floating" out there as a Red Herring so other teams go with the why bother? approach to Randy, thereby saving the Pats $$?

 

[TD Ryan]

Randy Moss goes to the highest bidder.

or the team that can use the "Franchise" tag on him.Will Randy Moss sign a long term deal with NE? maybe and by some accounts likely.Will Randy Moss be playing in NE next year? absolutely yes.

 

[David Yudkin]

Randy Moss goes to the highest bidder.He is what he is, and won't be changing his stripes because he likes it in NE, that's laughable really.The Pats will pay a fair market value ofr him, or he will be out of there faster than you can say; Free Agent.The rumored structure of a new deal is interesting, could it be "floating" out there as a Red Herring so other teams go with the why bother? approach to Randy, thereby saving the Pats $$?

Hmmm . . . .I guess people either don't want to listen or don't want to believe me. 99% chance that Randy Moss will be a Patriot next year. I have heard this from several people, both through official and unofficial channels.I know through sources that the team has already discussed this with Moss and from what I have been hearing there is no doubt on either side that he will be back. The team would never release any info on this and Moss certainly can't say anything about it.Moss reowrked his contract to come to NE from OAK and the official league rules are that a player can only redo/rework/extend a contract once per NFL calendar year. That means Moss cannot officially negotiate a contract until March 1st of 2008. The Pats cannot tack on more years to his existing deal because they used up that opportunity to bring him to NE.From people I know close to the situation, they cannot offcially tell me that a deal has been completed, but they 1) have not denied that a deal is in place, 2) have indicated that Moss and Brady have never been happier, 3) report that Moss raves (better stated, GUSHES) about how happy he is and has no plans to leave, 4) have reported that Moss has said several times he doesn't need a ton of money and could care less about getting the biggest contract available to him, 5) have indicated to me that the Pats cannot discuss negotiations when none are allowed by the league, 6) have indicated to me with "a very high level of confidence" that Randy Moss will be back, and 7) have already indicated to me some "hypotehtical" (wink, wink) numbers and years for a contract that doesn't exist and is not being negotiated.The climate could change between now and March and something could poison the water hole (like debilitating injury, failed drug test, criminal charges, TO-like escapades). But as things stand now and short of one of those things happening, I don't see any reason to believe that Moss will be available to any of the 31 other franchises.If all else fails and my contacts have been making up information and misleading me intentionally (which has never happened and my intel to date has been 100% accruate), there is always the franchise tag option (which they can't use on Asante Samuel next year).So, sure, if people want to take all that in and conclude that Randy Moss willbe a free agent and will sign with the highest bidder, knock yourselves out. That's pretty much all I have to say on the subject . . .So short story long, I fully expect with great confidence that Randy Moss will be returning to the New England Patriots.