Patriot News and Rumors

NFL Draft News:
The Patriots are scheduled to host LB Keith Rivers (Southern California) for a pre-draft visit. Linebacker is one of the Patriots' top need areas, with two of their top five players from 2007 currently free agents (Colvin and Seau).

The Patriots are also scheduled to host CB Brandon Flowers (Virginia Tech), DB Charles Godfrey (Iowa), CB Terrell Thomas (USC) and DE/LB Darrell Robertson (Georgia Tech).

The Patriots held a private, on-campus workout with
DE/OLB Quentin Groves (Auburn University). Groves is a tweener who projects to be an outside linebacker-edge rusher for teams that run a 3-4 scheme like the Patriots.

If the Patriots are looking to draft a signal-caller this year, one rookie to keep an eye on is QB Josh Johnson (San Diego). The Patriots recently sent a member of their coaching staff to meet with Johnson for a private workout.

Patriots coach Bill Belichick stopped at the University of South Florida as part of his annual Florida trip to get a first-hand look at their prospects. While there, he met with South Florida draft-eligible prospects CB Mike Jenkins and CB Trae Williams.

Belichick was also at the University of Florida for the opening of the Gators' spring football practice. Belichick met with draft-eligible prospects from Florida, including DE/OLB Derrick Harvey.

The Patriots had a private workout with DE Vernon Gholston (Ohio State) in Columbus, Ohio. Gholston (6-3, 266) is considered one of the top prospects in the NFL draft. While he played defensive end at Ohio State, he would most likely project to outside linebacker in the Patriots' 3-4 alignment.

The Patriots have had the fourth-most compensatory draft picks (17) of any team over the last decade. Good thing since QB Tom Brady was selected with one of them!

Patriot Player News:
Tight end Benjamin Watson was reported to have had surgery on his left ankle earlier this month. Watson had injured the ankle in a Week 6 game at Dallas when safety Roy Williams tackled him from behind. No report yet on how this affects Watson's level of participation with the team.

Offensive lineman Wesley Britt and outside linebacker Pierre Woods were both resigned by the Patriots. This was expected since both players were exclusive rights free agents and were only waiting on the organization tendered their contracts.

The Patriots have officially announced the signing of free agent cornerback Fernando Bryant. Bryant, 30, is a veteran of nine NFL seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars (1999-2003) and the Detroit Lions (2004-07). The 5-foot-10-inch, 184-pound cornerback has played in 110 career games with 109 starts and has totaled 509 tackles (435 solo), 7 interceptions, 88 passes defended, 3 forced fumbles and 7 fumble recoveries.

Player Rumor:
Do not believe everything you read. CB Adam ‘Pacman’ Jones' agent reported that Jones would be interested in joining the Patriots. This does not mean the Patriots were interested in him. According to a league source, the Patriots are not pursuing Jones.

NFL Draft: Indicators and Predictions 21-31

Part 4: You're Mocking Me! Indicators and Predictions 21-31

Last season, after the 2007 Rookie Draft, I tried to figure out where things went wrong in making the right predictions. I actually came up with 31 indicators (derived from a series of observed facts) that could have helped me make better picks prior to the draft. I have previously posted indicators 1 thru 20. Here are 21 thru 31:

Indicator 21: A rookie’s off the field character can cause them to slide in the draft. Last year it was CB Eric Wright. I am sure many NFL teams had the same approach the Saints took last year. "When there is a red flag on a player we don't simply move him way down our draft board, figuring to take him in a later round, we take him off our board completely," Sean Payton said. "That's what I believe in. There are too many good players out there to take any guy who might be a risk."

2008 Prediction: This year it could be RB Darren McFadden. McFadden has had to address questions about his character for off-field incidents. Then again, he might not make it past the Raiders with the fourth overall pick! I think the Raiders can look the other way!

Indicator 22: Injuries can cause rookies to slide down the draft board. This was true of Justin Harwell Harrell last season, who suffered a season ending injury with a partially torn biceps tendon. Also look at the impact Adrian Peterson (who slid to the 7th pick) made for Minnesota last season after the Vikings nabbed him. I guess they were not so concerned about his collarbone!

2008 Prediction: RB Jonathan Stewart could slide down a little due to reports of a turf toe injury. Stewart had a fantastic showing at the Scouting Combine though, so hopefully the injury should not affect his stock too much. He has already had the toe operated on and will be ready to go by summer.

Indicator 23: A good showing at the Combine and at Pro-day events do help rookie players move up in the draft. A bad showing though can drop a rookie out of the first round.

2008 Prediction: On the rise: OLB Vernon Gholston, DE Derrick Harvey, OT Brandon Albert, and OT Chris Williams. On the decline: RB Darren McFadden, WR Early Doucet, and DE Phillip Merling

Indicator 24: Watch what needs are addressed via free agency by a team prior to the draft. Last season many had the Saints drafting a CB in the first round, even though that need was addressed by signing CB Jason David (maybe they still should have gotten a CB in the draft instead of WR Robert Meachem!)

2008 Prediction: There was talk that Seattle could go RB in the first round to replace Shaun Alexander. With the signing of RB Julius Jones and Ron Dayne, it is not likely to happen. Then again, if a player like Jonathan Stewart were to slide, it might not be so bad to grab him. Look for Seattle to go TE, DT, OT or WR instead of RB.

Indicator 25: Off-season trades create needs that can be filled via the draft. Last season you had the Dolphins with Welker/Ginn, the Steelers with Porter/Timmons, and the Bills with McGahee/Lynch.

2008 Prediction: The Patriots definitely need help at CB/S position even with all of the bargain basement CBs the’ve been signing lately. The Lions released RB Kevin Jones, and I just do not see them going with Tatum Bell. Seattle and Denver both could use a kicker as well. I am sure a veteran will be brought in to compete as well.

Indicator 26: Players don’t slide in a draft just because another team fits the need better. Many overlooked Buffalo taking a RB in the first round last season even though McGahee was traded away. Everyone figured Green Bay needed a running rack to replace Ahman Green. It was convenient just to let Lynch slide to Green Bay, but that is not how the NFL works.

2008 Prediction: I have seen a few Mock drafts where DE Chris Long (Howie’s boy) slid to the Raiders. It would be a nice story, but not likely to happen.

Indicator 27: A rookie visiting/meeting with a NFL team multiple times could show how serious that team is about the player, or at the very least about drafting at that position. Last season Safety Brandon Meriweather and the Patriots met three times.

2008 Prediction: Keep an eye on this the closer the draft becomes.

Indicator 28: Why reach for the rookie you want if you can move back and still get the same player. Like I said before, trading at the draft is easier said than done. Last season though, it was reported that the Panther really wanted to draft LB Jon Beason. The Panthers ended up trading with the Jets out of the 14th spot and still drafted Beason at pick #25.

2008 Prediction: Teams that could be looking to move down in the draft – Dolphins, Patriots, Bills; teams that could be looking to move up in the draft – Panthers, Broncos, Cowboys.

Indicator 29: Teams are going to draft rookies that are good fits for their team and not just because they are the top pick on someone’s draft board at that position. Last season the Chargers drafted WR Craig Davis although many felt there were better wide receivers available.

2008 Prediction: The top wide receivers in this year’s draft (Limas Sweed, DeSean Jackson, Malcolm Kelly, Devin Thomas, and James Hardy) could end up going in any order. Look for teams like the Bills, Redskins, Eagles, Cowboys, Buccaneers, Chargers, and maybe even the Steelers to go WR in the first round.

Indicator 30: Teams trade up to get in front of another team that will most likely draft the player they want. Last year the Jets traded with the Panthers to move ahead of the Steelers to draft CB Darrelle Revis. Classic draft move, but very tough to pull off.

2008 Prediction: DT Sedric Ellis has fallen to the Bengals at the 9th spot in a lot of mock drafts. For a team to get Ellis, it looks like you would need to trade up ahead of the Bengals, and I am sure the Patriots would be willing to trade out of the 7th pick to oblige.

And last but not least…

Indicator 31: You can be talented, and still drop out of the first round. Last season, it was DT Alan Branch and OLB Paul Posluszny.

2008 Prediction: Still too close to predict, but right now I would say QB Brian Brohm and LB Dan Connor. I originally had them going in the first round to the Ravens and Giants.

And there you have it…31 Indicators to assist you predicting this year’s rookie draft. Next I will apply these to show how I think this year’s rookie draft could unfold.

NFL Draft: Wondering About the Wonderlic

The Wonderlic test has become best known for its use in NFL pre-draft assessments of prospective football players. The average Wonderlic score for each position is as follows:

Offensive tackle - 26
Center - 25
Quarterback - 24
Guard - 23
Tight end - 22
Safety - 19
Linebacker - 19
Cornerback - 18
Wide receiver - 17
Fullback - 17
Halfback - 16

(From Paul Zimmerman's The New Thinking Man's Guide to Pro Football)

NFL teams expect most rookie prospects will score well because they can prepare for the tests. When a rookie has an unusually low score though, it raises a huge red flag. Vince Young was rumored to have only scored a 6 on his Wonderlic test, but was still the top QB taken in 2006 (he scored a 16 the second time around). Matt Lienart scored a 35 on the Wonderlic test. NFL teams like to see quarterbacks, offensive linemen, middle linebackers and safeties score higher than that because those positions can be mentally demanding. A person of average intelligence should score around 20.

So how does the 2008 rookie class match up?

The top four QBs in this years draft faired well, with both Ryan (Boston College) and Brohm (Louisville) scoring 32, Flacco (Delaware) scored a 28, and Henne (Michigan) scored a 22.

Most of the top offensive linemen also tested well. Jake Long (Michigan) scored a 26, Jeff Otah (Pittsburgh) scored a 28, Sam Baker (South California) scored a 27, Chris Williams (Vanderbilt) scored a 32, Godser Cherilus (Boston College) scored a 25 and Brandon Albert (Virginia) scored a 23.

Can a bad score on the Wonderlic hurt you in the draft? Keep an eye on Boise State offensive tackle Ryan Clady. Clady has been projected as a top ten player, but had the only disappointing score from the top group of blockers, scoring a 13.

A few others that might have hurt themselves with below average Wonderlic scores include Linebacker Keith Rivers (USC) and Safety Kenny Philips (Miami) both only scoring a 16.

In the history of the NFL, Pat McInally, a graduate of Harvard University, is the only football player to record a confirmed perfect score of 50.

NFL teams say the Wonderlic is just one piece of the overall puzzle though. Good thing for Vince Young!

NFL 2008 Draft: Indicators and Predictions 16-20

Part 3: You're Mocking Me! Indicators and Predictions 16-20

Last season, after the 2007 Rookie Draft, I tried to figure out where things went wrong in making the right predictions. I actually came up with 31 indicators (derived from a series of observed facts) that could have helped me make better picks prior to the draft. I have previously posted indicators 1 thru 15. Here are 16 thru 20:

Indicator 16: The truth be known, the information floating around prior to the draft is probably more smoke than fire. Every team tells some little white lies at draft time, as not to tip their hand. Last season, when Green Bay was asked about DT Justin Harrell, the Pack said he wasn't their guy. Guess who was a Green Bay Packer with the 16th pick?

2008 Prediction: Could QB Matt Ryan be a Miami Dolphin, Atlanta Falcon, or Kansas City Chief? The Dolphins have been saying that QB John Beck is progressing nicely. The Falcon’s Owner Arthur Blank really likes Matt Ryan, but also really needs a Defensive Tackle. The Chief’s have been saying that they believe in QB Brodie Croyle, but Ryan could be too good to pass on if the Falcons and Dolphins do. Also Herm Edwards attended the Boston College Pro-day himself. Don’t be surprised if the Dolphins drop hints that they will be drafting Ryan to see if someone will move up for the #1 pick overall. Doubt anyone will bite though and Ryan ends up a Chief or a Raven (at pick #8).

Indicator 17: The closer you get to the draft, the more accurate you can predict a team’s true need. Some teams will address their biggest needs via free agency, some via the draft. It always comes down to picking based on need vs. the best player on the board. Of course, there are always exceptions, like Green Bay taking DT Justin Harrell last draft. Guess they felt the biggest need was DT over what all the experts were predicting!

2008 Prediction: Mock drafts in March look nothing like ones done days before the draft. Miami’s biggest need is OT, although everyone has them taking DE Chris Long. Don’t be surprised if this pick ends up being OT Jake Long instead. The Falcons definitely could use a QB, but with only a few good DT in this draft, don’t be surprised if a player like Glenn Dorsey wins over QB Matt Ryan.

Indicator 18: Running Back by Committee is not a bad thing in the NFL. I think you see teams going this route to save on the pounding that a single running back takes. You can’t rule out a team taking a top running back just because they have one already. The Vikings took Adrian Peterson, even though they had Chester Taylor; Reggie Bush went to the Saint, even though they had Deuce McAllister.

2008 Prediction: Hard to predict were a grood running could land. There are four good running backs predicted to go in the first round this year (Darren McFadden, Rashard Mendenhall, Jonathan Stewart, and Felix Jones). McFadden is the only one listed to go in the Top 10 as of right now (to the Raiders or the jets). This doesn’t mean someone might not try to move up for someone like Medenhall. At #14 and #15 both the Bears and Lions could use a running back!

Indicator 19: Coaches have pride too. A coach might not draft a player that might indicate they made a mistake in a previous draft. I was told last draft that there was no way the Vikings would take Quinn since Childress drafted Tarvaris Jackson. Sure enough, Jackson was the starting QB. No one had the Vikings taking RB Adrian Peterson, and that worked out great for them!

2008 Prediction: Although many Viking fans feel a QB is still the missing piece, even if Ryan somehow fell to the 17th pick, the Vikings will still go Defensive End. I could see them maybe grabbing one of the other top three QBs if they slid to them in the second round (strictly a value pick).

Indicator 20: Quarterbacks don’t always go as early as many people predict. For a team to shell out the first round money a top QB will cost them, that QB needs to be the franchise’s starting QB relatively soon. As a QB starts to fall in the draft though, any team could draft a QB for the value it represents late in the round. Brady Quinn dropped to #22 last year, when the Brown’s traded back into the first round to get him. Matt Leinart, who might have been the first overall pick in 2005, slid to the #10 pick in 2006, being drafted by the Cardinals. Aaron Rogers slid to #24 in 2005, going to the Green Bay Packers. Considering the Packers had Brett Farve, this pick raised a few eyebrows (but great value at that pick). Rogers will finally get his chance to show he was well worth the pick now due to Farve’s retirement.

Prediction 2008: There is no clear cut #1 pick QB in the 2008 draft. QB Matt Ryan will go in the first round somewhere though. There are three other QBs in the draft though, Brian Brohm (Louisville), Joe Flacco (Delaware), and Chad Henne (Michigan), that teams could grab if they miss out on Matt Ryan. Teams needing QBs: Dolphins, Falcons, Chiefs, Ravens, Panthers and Bears. Don't be surprised if these four QBs end up on one of these six teams.

More indicators and predictions to follow…

Patriot News and Rumors

The Boston Globe reported that "the Patriots are prepared to part ways with WR Troy Brown, as the team is not planning to offer its all-time leader in receptions a contract for the 2008 season." The Pats have respectfully informed him he can solicit offers from other teams. The Browns and Lions already have called. One of Brown's stipulations is that he join a team not scheduled to play the Patriots, ruling out the Jets and Dolphins, who are also believed to have expressed interest. If Brown remains unsigned in a month or two, the Patriots could revisit signing him. But as things stand now, his days in New England are over.

S Eugene Wilson agreed to a one-year contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Buccaneers plan to play Wilson at cornerback instead of the safety position. Wilson's agent, James Sims, said there is excitement for Wilson to return to corner after playing primarily safety in five years with the Patriots.

The Patriots announced the re-signing of DL Mike Wright. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. Wright was a restricted free agent this offseason. The Patriots tendered him at the second-round level, at $1.4 million. Entering his fourth NFL season, Wright is the team's primary backup at nose tackle in the 3-4 alignment. He can also line up at end, and is a solid contributor on special teams.

Free-agent CB Ty Law said that he’s been in contact with the Patriots, but at this point the Jets have shown more aggressive interest in him. Law visited with the Jets already. Asked about his prior contact with the Patriots, Law said he had a “good conversation” with coach Bill Belichick.

The Patriots announced the re-signing of S Ray Ventrone. The re-signing was a formality, as Ventrone was an exclusive rights free agent. It's a one-year deal with a base salary is $370,000.

The woman who obtained a restraining order earlier this year against New England Patriots star WR Randy Moss has requested that the order be dissolved and the case dismissed.

Lawyers for a St. Louis Rams player and three fans plan to withdraw a lawsuit accusing the Patriots of cheating in Super Bowl XXXVI. The news was to be expected, as experts felt the suit had little merit to begin with.

According to a report in the Tennessean newspaper, the Patriots are among the teams that have expressed some level of interest in Tennessee Titans CB Pacman Jones, who sat out all of last season after being suspended by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell for his wayward off-field behavior.

The Boston Herald reported the NFL and former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh are working towards an agreement that will allow him to inform the league what he knows regarding the Spygate scandal, according to NFL spokesman Greg Aiello. "The lawyers for all involved (NFL, Patriots, Mr. Walsh) are getting there," Aiello said. "We are on track toward an agreement."

NFL 2008 Draft: Indicators and Predictions 6-15

Part 2: You're Mocking Me! Indicators and Predictions 6-15

Last season, after the 2007 Rookie Draft, I tried to figure out where things went wrong in making the right predictions. I actually came up with 31 indicators (derived from a series of observed facts) that could have helped me make better picks prior to the draft. I previously posted indicators 1 thru 5. Here are 6 thru 15:

Indicator 6: Moving up or back in the draft is easier said than done. It is not easy to trade up or down in the NFL Rookie Draft as the average fan thinks it is. Plus the fact that you are working against the clock does not help either. This is why it will look like a team is reaching for a player early vs. trying to find a trading partner and get that same player at a better spot. Many felt the Dolphins should have traded out of the 9th spot based on who they selected (WR Ted Ginn Jr.)

2008 Prediction: If the Patriots can not trade out of the 7th pick overall, they will most likely draft a CB which many will feel is a reach at this pick. (I am assuming DE Vernon Gholston would not be available at this pick, and it might be too early for OLB Derrick Harvey or OLB Keith Rivers.

Indicator 7: If a team cannot trade out of their current draft pick, they will most likely go for the top rated rookie on their draft board based on need. An NFL team’s draft board though will definitely not match the average fans draft board. Then again, I doubt the average fan has a team of football scouts working at their disposal. In 2007, Arizona taking OT Levi Brown at #5 and Miami taking WR Ted Ginn, Jr. are examples of this.

2008 Prediction: Sorry all 32 teams told me their draft boards were privy information.

Indicator 8: Need trumps talent. Arizona needed an OT and took OT Levi Brown. I am not saying he was not talented, but doubtful many had him as a top five pick on their draft boards. Just because a QB might be ranked 3rd overall, if you don't need one, you are not going to draft one.

2008 Prediction: Right now, OT Ryan Cady could fall into this category. Many don’t feel he is a top10 pick, but if OT Jake Long is gone, many have him as the next available OT.

Indicator 9: Some rookie player will break the top 10 that you would not count on. Last season it was the Miami Dolphins selecting Ted Ginn at #9. The season before it was the Buffalo Bills selecting S Donte Whitner at #8.

2008 Prediction: I am thinking CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie could break the top 10 with three teams possibly needing a CB (New England Patriots, Baltimore Ravens and New Orleans Saints).

Indicator 10: Trading a veteran player for a draft pick is tough to do at the draft. It does happen, but many times both the team and the player need to come to a contract agreement in principle for it to happen.

2008 Prediction: There is a lot of speculation about Atlanta CB DeAngelo Hall and the possibility of being traded for a draft pick. If it does happen, it most likely would need to happen prior to the draft. (Note: it is now rumored that Hall could be going to the Raiders for a second round draft pick)

And a few common sense ones:

Indicator 11: Teams would like their first round rookie picks to be starters! Chances are teams are going to try and address their biggest need.

Indicator 12: Trading for future year draft picks is always a consideration when planning out draft day trades. The Patriots and the Cowboys were key trading partners in the 2006 draft, allowing other teams to grab rookies that were sliding down in the draft. This year the Patriots have the 49ers 7th pick and the Cowboys have the Browns 22nd pick.

Indicator 13: Later round teams are more likely to trade down than pick second round talent in the first round. Both the Eagles and the Patriots have done this in the past. This is mainly based on getting the same player you were targeting but in the second round. This is always a gamble though.

Indicator 14: Teams with multiple first round draft picks will mostly likely try to move one of the picks than pay two rookies top money. I know this has been true for the Patriots in the past, but I could see the Dallas Cowboys using both the 22nd and 28th pick in this years draft.

Indicator 15: Anything is possible! Last year, the Philadelphia Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys were trading with each other! Enough said! Serously, anyone can be trading partners. The Patriots have been trading parters with both the Dolphins and the Bills. I think it is safe to assume you will not be seeing and Patriots/Jets trades though!

More indicators and predictions to follow…

NFL 2008 Draft: Indicators and Predictions 1-5

Part 1: You're Mocking Me! Indicators and Predictions 1-5

With the 2008 NFL Rookie draft just six weeks away, it is time to consider breaking down the first round, and predicting which rookies will go to what teams. This is done by creating a mock draft. Many mock drafts are done by experts and novices alike every drafting season, especially with regards to the first round.. Predicting the 32 players that will go in the first round correctly though is about as easy as getting all 32 first round winning teams correct in your March Madness Tourney! Like the Tourney, the draft has upsets (via trades) and sleeper picks! Sometimes you can be right on target matching the player to the team, other times you get the right position need, but not the right player.

Last season, after the 2007 Rookie Draft, I tried to figure out where things went wrong in making the right predictions. I actually came up with 31 indicators that could have helped me make better picks prior to the draft. Watching college football could have helped too! lol

Over the next few weeks, I will post some of them, and match these indicators up with possible predictions in the 2008 Rookie Draft.

Indicator 1: See which rookies the team owners are interested in. A team owner usually wins out over a coach since they are the ones shelling out the first round money. Last season it was rumored Al Davis wanted Jarmarcus Russell although Lane Kiffen was rumored to like Brady Quinn better. The Raiders ended up taking Russell as the #1 pick. The same could be said for the 2006 draft with GM Reese preferring Vince Young over Matt Leinart.

2008 prediction: Arthur Blank will have a say if QB Matt Ryan is drafted at #3; Al Davis could still have the Raiders take RB Darren McFadden at #4, although it doesn’t look like he needs a RB right now.

Indicator 2: Top ranked rookies still go in the top of the draft. Calvin Johnson was ranked by many to be the top pick in the draft, although many had him sliding down to Tampa Bay at #4. Johnson ended up being drafted at #2 by the Detroit Lions.

2008 Prediction: The problem with the 2008 rookie draft is that there is no clear-cut number rookie. DT Glenn Dorsey, once the top pick has fallen due to injury. Names being thrown around right now include DE Chris Long, OT Jake Long, RB Darren McFadden, and QB Matt Ryan. This is also a draft class considered strong at RB and CB, but no QBs that you would consider a franchise pick. It would not be surprising to see QB Matt Ryan fall into the late teens in the draft (Dolphins, Falcons, Chiefs, Ravens, Bears, Panthers all could go for the top QB though).

Indicator 3: Once a rookie is drafted, he is most likely not going to be traded away. Historically, rookies that are drafted with top picks are not then traded away. With the exception of the Manning/River trade between the Chargers and the Giants at the 2004 rookie draft, I do not remember this ever happening.

2008 Prediction: Sorry, you are just not going to see Raiders owner Al Davis draft RB McFadden and then trade him to Cowboy’s owner Jerry Jones! If Jerry Jones wants McFadden, he will need to trade up to get the draft pick to do it.

Indicator 4: If a team is trying to move up prior to the draft, they will continue to try at the draft. This was the case with the Broncos, who were looking to move up prior to the draft. They ended up working out a trade with the Jaguars at the draft. The Broncos traded up to the 17th position to draft rookie DE Jarvis Moss. The Jaguars ended up with rookie S Reggie Nelson with the 21st pick.

2008 Prediction: I could see the Broncos maybe try to move up in the draft again this year if a player like DT Glenn Dorsey starts to fall. A good trading partner could be the New England Patriots since they could get the CB or LB they would want later in the draft.

Indicator 5: Teams do not want to pay too much to move up in the draft. Last year, Detroit’s price tag was too high of a price for the #2 pick overall. It made it impossible for a team to move up and get the draft pick from them. Remember, the top 10 picks end up costing you, both to get the pick, and to pay the player selected.

2008 Prediction: Miami would love to trade out of the first pick, but without a clear-cut #1 rookie in the draft, there will most likely be no takers. As a few of the top players possibly start to slide though, you could see a few teams willing to move up to get them (RB McFadden, QB Matt Ryan, and DT Glenn Dorsey)

More indicators and predictions to follow…

Tainted Dynasty: Lawyers, Camera, Action!

The old adage states that the proof is in the pudding. There has been a lot of talk and allegations involving former Patriots employee Matt Walsh concerning the illegal video practices, but no substantial physical proof. Walsh is not willing to show what he has until he is guaranteed protection from the NFL. The NFL and Walsh’s lawyer both said Sunday night that "substantial progress" has been made in negotiations to reach a deal that would allow Walsh to come forward with any knowledge or materials he has related to the Patriots' illicit videotaping.

Walsh's lawyer, Michael N. Levy e-mailed this statement regarding the progress the sides have made in reaching an agreement. "I have consistently asked the NFL to provide appropriate legal protections for Mr. Walsh. In recent discussions I have had with the League's lawyer, we have made substantial progress toward this end, and I am hopeful that we will be able to craft an agreement with the necessary legal protections so Mr. Walsh can come forward with the truth."

In a statement emailed by NFL representative Greg Aiello "Our counsel and Mr. Walsh's attorney have been engaged in a serious effort for some time now to reach an agreement that would permit Mr. Walsh to come forward. In the last seven days, the lawyers have had intensive and constructive discussions regarding some new and promising approaches. They have made substantial progress toward an agreement that will allow Mr. Walsh to be interviewed. Both sides are optimistic that any remaining issues can be addressed successfully and they are committed to reaching a full agreement as promptly as possible. As Commissioner Goodell has repeatedly emphasized, 'nobody wants to hear from Matt Walsh more than the National Football League."

Goodell previously had warned the Patriots that if Belichick lied about the extent of their videotaping practices when they were initially questioned, he would suspend Belichick for a year and impose similarly severe penalties on the team. Coach Bill Belichick has already been fined $500000 and the Patriots were ordered to forfeit their first round draft pick and pay $250000.

So will the evidence that Matt Walsh has on tape (if it exists) change our views of the New England Patriots and their seven-year streak of good fortune?

Coach Belichick already has acknowledged to Commissioner Goodell that he had approved opponent’s signal taping from the time he joined the team in 2000, believing he was not violating the spirit of the rules. If this is all Walsh has on tape, then it only collaborates what Belichick has already confessed to doing.

What if Walsh possesses a tape of the Rams' final walkthrough at the 2002 Super Bowl? The Patriots have already stated that if the tape of this does exist, then Walsh acted alone. Walsh’s credibility has already been in question over the last month. In question is incorrect information on Walsh’s website about his job responsibilities as a New England Patriot, as well as his firing from the organization for illegally taping conversations with Scott Pioli, vice president of player personnel. The Patriots are portraying Walsh as an angered ex-employee.

If any tapes do exist in Matt Walsh’s possession, the Patriots want them returned stating that it is property of the team. The Patriots organization, for example, is missing video of Adam Vinatieri kicking the winning field goal in the 2002 Super Bowl. The tape was recorded by an end zone camera Matt Walsh operated during the game. This same tape could contain the alleged Super Bowl XXXVI walkthrough.

The controversy continues while the lawyers work out the details. Speaking of lawyers, the Associated Press reports that lawyers for a St. Louis Rams player and three fans plan to withdraw their lawsuit accusing the Patriots of cheating in Super Bowl XXXVI. Guess they cannot wait for the video tape.

Note: The title Tainted Dynasty is only a reflection of the continuing Spygate saga and not of the New England Patriot Players and all of their accomplishments over the last seven years.

Patriots' Offense Intact; Defense Suspect!

The first week of Free Agency is in the books!

When looking at the New England Patriots, it has not been the offense that has cost the Patriots titles the past two seasons; it‘s the defense. Defensive weakness during the most critical time in the game cost the Patriots the AFC Championship game last season and the Super Bowl this season. Defense, as the old adage goes, apparently really does win championships. This does not mean the Patriots had a bad defense, especially one that went eighteen straight games without a loss. There were definitely chinks in the defensive armor of the New England Patriots though. So how are the Patriots addressing their needs during free agency?

It looks like the New England Patriots high-powered offense will be virtually intact for 2008. WR Kelly Washington resigned prior to the start of free agency. Both wide receiver’s Randy Moss and Jabar Gaffney have resigned with the team this week. WR Donte Stallworth however will not be returning since he was signed by the Cleveland Browns. His position will most likely be filled by either Kelly Washington or Chad Jackson. TE Kyle Brady was cut by the team, but was mainly part of the offense as a blocker. He will be easily replaced though.

The Patriots defense, on the other hand, has lost some key players due to the free agent market and cap casualties. The Patriots had cut OLB Rosevelt Colvin, LB Oscar Lua, and S Eugene Wilson. CB Asante Samuel flew the coop to the Eagles, and CB Randall Gay is now a New Orlean Saint. DL Rashad Moore has been signed by the Atlanta Falcons. Resigning with the team was LB Tedy Bruschi, Special team captain Larry Izzo, long snapper Lonie Paxton, ILB Eric Alexander, OL Wesley Britt, S Ray Ventrone and OLB Pierre Woods. The Patriots will try to work their magic via free agency and the draft to address the need at linebacker and in the secondary.

New Additions to the New England Patriots via Free Agency:

WR Sam Aiken: The 6-foot-2, 215-pound Aiken is considered a strong special team’s performer. His receiving production has been limited, as he has 19 career receptions. The Patriots are familiar with Aiken from having competed against him the last five seasons in Buffalo.

CB Jason Webster: Veteran of eight NFL seasons with the San Francisco 49ers (2000-03), Atlanta Falcons (2004-06) and Buffalo Bills (2007). The 5-foot-9-inch, 187-pound cornerback has played in 87 career games with 74 starts and has recorded 393 tackles (324 solo), 11 interceptions for 228 yards and two touchdowns, 56 passes defensed, six forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. He has also played in three career playoff games with two starts for San Francisco (2001) and Atlanta (2004).

S Tank Williams: Williams (6-foot-2, 223 pounds) was with the Vikings the last two seasons and is considered a big hitter. He spent the first four seasons of his career with the Titans.

CB Lewis Sanders: Veteran of eight NFL seasons with the Cleveland Browns (2000-2004), Houston Texans (2005-06) and Atlanta Falcons (2007). The 6-foot-1-inch, 210-pound cornerback has played in 87 career games with 25 starts and has recorded 172 career tackles (137 solo), one sack, five interceptions for 90 yards, 31 passes defensed, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries, while also totaling 51 special teams tackles.

Still on the Radar:
Carolina Panther LB Adam Seward (visited 3/6/08)
Kansas City Chiefs CB Ty Law
NY Jets Free-agent CB Hank Poteat

It’s Official: Brett’s PACKing it in!

Whether you are a Green Bay Packers fan or just a fan of the NFL, Brett Farve was everyone’s fan favorite! During a press conference today at Lambeau field though, Brett Favre, with a tear rolling down his cheek, officially announced his retirement. Farve said he has given everything he has to give to the Green Bay organization and while he knows he can still play he is no longer sure he wants to. "It's over," Favre said, noting it was very hard for him to say that. He added he is sure there will be times he wonders if he made the right decision and said he will miss it. "I just don't think I can give anything else," Favre said. Farve had silenced many of his critics by completing one of his best seasons out of seventeen.

Brett Farve has had quite the run in the NFL. He completes his 17-year career as the NFL's all-time leader in every significant career-passing category: touchdowns (442), completions (5,377), attempts (8,758) yards (61,555), and wins (160). His 253 consecutive starts (275 including playoffs) is the NFL record for quarterbacks and the second-longest recorded streak in league history. The league's only three-time MVP, Favre led the Packers to 11 playoff appearances, including seven division crowns, four NFC Championship Games, two Super Bowls and a World Championship with a victory in Super Bowl XXXI (against the New England Patriots of course!). He should be a lock as a first-ballot Hall of Famer in 2013.

"He has had one of the greatest careers in the history of the National Football League," said Green Bay Packers General Manager Ted Thompson. "He is able to walk away from the game on his own terms - not many players are able to do that. The Packers owe him a tremendous debt of gratitude. He has given Packers fans 16 years of wonderful memories, a Super Bowl championship among them that will live on forever.

Brett Farve’s legacy is cemented as one of the most beloved NFL players of his generation. Thanks for the memories #4!

Moss Stands PAT!

WR Randy Moss is not going anywhere...he's standing pat! Patriot that is!

Were Patriot fans losing hope in getting WR Randy Moss signed? The Patriot faithful had already seen a handful of players sign with new clubs through the first three days in free agency, including cornerback Asante Samuel (Eagles), receiver Donte’ Stallworth (Browns) and cornerback Randall Gay (Saints) . Moss definitely became the top priority in the fans mind!

It seems like the whole situation was always under control though, no matter what the media was reporting. Both the Patriots Organization and Moss and his Agent have been close in negotiations since the start of free agency, having agreed on the overall value of the pact. The main sticking point was the amount of guaranteed money included in the deal. There were many reports out their about Moss talking to other teams such as Green Bay, or joining back up with his old Quarterback Dante Culpepper, etc, but none of these seem to be the case. Talks between the sides heated up today though, as Moss's top priority was returning to New England. The deal was finalized and Randy is a New England Patriot again.

WR Randy Moss posted a message on his website, therealrandymoss.com, to the fans of New England: "I want to take time out to thank all of the fans for their support and for wishing me well in my return to New England," he wrote. "I'm ready to get back. We have some unfinished business to take care of."

Coach Bill Belichick also released a statement: “What Randy did for our team last year was outstanding. He is one of our most consistent, competitive and team-oriented players and it is undoubtedly a relationship we are excited to continue.”

Tim DiPiero, the agent for Randy Moss, detailed the contract with the Patriots in an email to reporters: "I am pleased to confirm that Randy Moss has signed a three year contract with the New England Patriots. The contract calls for a total payout of $27 million with $15 million guaranteed, $12 million of which is in the form of a signing bonus. Randy is grateful to Mr. Kraft, Coach Belichick and Scott Pioli for agreeing to the terms of this contract. Randy was serious about wanting to stay. Because of Randy's record-breaking year, the interest in him was very high. Randy took less than he could have to rejoin his teammates."

And Patriot fans breathe a sigh of relief…

Patriot Free Agents flying the Coop!

It is hard to see a team that went undefeated in the off-season change personnel. That is what Free Agency is all about though.

The first to fly the coop was CB Asante Samuel to the Eagles. He got his big payday: six years, 57 Million Dollars. Well not many expected Samuel to be back as a Patriot anyway.

CB Randall Gay has completed his visit with the Saints today and the sides are expected to exchange contract proposals tonight. He is also scheduled to visit the Buccaneers on Monday. Meanwhile, the Patriots and Jets remain in contact with Gay's representatives, as they are still actively involved in the process.

For all of those that assumed WR Randy Moss was under contract, hence no franchise tag, we were wrong! NFL Network's Adam Schefter writes on Randy Moss, noting, "those who know Moss say he is inching closer to the point of frustration at the lack of progress he has made for a new deal with the Patriots." Here is hoping the Patriots get this one done before Randy starts entertaining calls from the Cowboys or the Packers.

The Patriots have already lost one wide receiver to free agency so far. WR Donte Stallworth has reached an agreement to sign with the Cleveland Browns. Stallworth became a free agent after the Patriots elected not to pick up the $8 million in option bonus payments he was due this off-season. I still wish the Patriots could have worked something out with Stallworth, who is on 27 years old. The Patriots did re-sign WR Kelly Washington, so hopefully he will fill the void left my Stallworth.

The Patriots released TE Kyle Brady. Brady was not a big part of the passing attach catching only nine passes for 70 yards and two touchdowns while playing in 14 games with nine starts for New England. Brady was definitively more of a blocking tight end!

The Patriots have signed back a few of their own though. The Patriots have tendered contracts to four of their exclusive rights free agents -- ILB Eric Alexander, OL Wesley Britt, S Ray Ventrone and OLB Pierre Woods. That means all four players will be back with the club in 2008. Woods figures to compete for playing time at the spot formerly occupied by Rosevelt Colvin.

The Patriots re-signed long snapper Lonie Paxton to a one-year deal. The move was expected as Paxton had made it a priority to stay with the Patriots. He is considered one of the league's top snappers.

Free Agency is definitely not turning out how many Patriots fans would have expected! Nothing short of signing Moss will silence the critics!