Patriots 27 Redskins 24
The Good:
Tom Brady was 8 of 11 passing for 95 yards and a TD in the first frame. Randy Moss has five catches for 63 yards. Brady hooked up twice with Moss for touchdowns for the first time since the 2007 season.
Patriots cornerback Jonathan Wilhite stepped in front of a Colt Brennan offering (intended for D.J. Hackett) and took the interception 99 yards the other way for a touchdown
Stephen Gostkowski booted a 31-yard field goal with eight seconds remaining to lift the Patriots over the Redskins, 27-24
The Bad:
Tom Brady, appeared to tweak his right shoulder on a hit from Albert Haynesworth late in the first half. He briefly appeared on the sideline to start the second half, but returned to the locker room before the Patriots' first offensive series, turning the reigns over to Kevin O'Connell.
Patriots rookie defensive back Pat Chung fumbled a punt for the seconds straight week, this one bouncing off his helmet. Also for the second straight week, fellow rookie defensive back Darius Butler bailed him out by recovering the fumble
Matthew Slater had a fair catch interference for the second week in a row. It's an inexcusable penalty, but it is unlikely to affect his roster spot
One area that stood out is how the nickel package (5 defensive backs) couldn’t consistently get off the field. While there were signs of life with the pass rush at times, the Patriots couldn’t consistently synch up their rush with coverage.
The Ugly:
The 73-yard busted play to tight end Chris Cooley!
Marko Mitchell hauled in a 33-yard touchdown pass from Colt Brennan to tie the game late in the third quarter. The drive covered 44 yards on five plays over 2:41. The short field came as a result of a Kevin O'Connell interception.
Note - The Patriots have made a surprising move at quarterback Sunday, informing backup Kevin O'Connell that he has been waived, according to a league source.
Game Notes:
Patriots coach Bill Belichick didn't provide much insight into the status of quarterback Tom Brady in his postgame press conference with the media. "He's got some bumps and bruises like everyone else who played in the game," said Belichick.
Quotes:
"I mean, it wasn't like I was hitting Gisele or something; he's the quarterback. It was good, it was fine. I mean, I was trying to tackle him, but I wasn't trying to hurt him. I'm not that type of a player, you know? I'm actually a big Tom Brady fan. I'm a big Patriots fan. I've always like the Patriots, I've always liked Coach Belichick. I just like the way [Brady] is." -- Redskins DT Albert Haynesworth
"I’m sure he has some bumps and bruises like everybody else who played in the game." -- Patriot Coach Bill Belichick
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Friday, August 21, 2009
Patriots: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (Pre-season game 2)
Patriots 6 - Bengals 7
Sorry, there is not a lot that can be said for this game. Brady played for two series. The Patriots definitely were trying to get the running game going. The Patriots also ran the 3- 4 Defense more than last week. As Coach Bill Belichick pointed out, there is a lot of work still left to do!
The Good:
Patriots LB Jerod Mayo registered a 6-yard sack of Bengals QB J.T. O'Sullivan to help force the Bengals to punt on the game's first drive.
Tom Brady completed 4 of 8 passes for 57 yards over two series.
The Bengals went for it on 4th and 7 at the New England 27, but Adalius Thomas registered a 1-yard sack to force a turnover on downs.
Bengals TE Daniel Coats hauled in a 27-yard pass from QB J.T. O'Sullivan after getting behind Patriots LB Shawn Crable, but safety Brandon McGowan made a big hit to jar the ball loose and cornerback Terrence Wheatley recovered for New England.
Patriots kicker Stephen Gostkowski booted a pair of field goals (32-yard and 41-yard)
The Bengals put together a lengthy 14-play drive that trekked to the Patriots 6. But without their starting kicker (and not wanting to go to Chad Ochocinco's foot again), Cincinnati went for it on fourth down and an incomplete pass gave the ball to the Patriots.
The Bad:
Patriots QB Tom Brady avoided getting hit hard while playing 24 snaps in last week's win over the Eagles, but he finally endured a big shot in the first quarter tonight. Bengals DE Robert Geathers ran straight past Patriots RT Nick Kaczur and absolutely flattened Brady on a first-down pass attempt.
Patriots RB BenJarvus Green Ellis fumbled at the Cincinnati 12 and defensive back Marvin White recovered for the Bengals. The forced fumble was credited to safety Tom Nelson.
Patriots safety Patrick Chung tried to haul in a punt early in the fourth quarter, but it went straight through him (officially scored a fumble). The Patriots averted disaster when Ray Ventrone tipped the ball to the side and Darius Butler fell on the ball at the New England 5.
Special teamer standout Matthew Slater loses awareness and has fair catch interference on a punt.
The Ugly:
Watching Chad Ochocinco booting the extra point with kicker Shayne Graham sidelined. Doug Flutie did it better!
Game Notes:
Belichick seemed upset in the aftermath of the team’s 7-6 loss to the Bengals, but a look at the tape seemed to soften his tone. “Within [the mistakes], there were plenty of good individual performances,” he said, also noting that there were times when four or five things were good on one play, but one other breakdown hurt the play and "if we could get that one thing straightened out that would make things go a lot better."
Quotes:
"I think it’s pretty obvious out there tonight that we certainly have a lot of work to do and a long way to go. I think we were pretty sloppy in every area of the game: had a lot of penalties, didn’t convert on third downs, missed too many tackles – just generally had too many mistakes, too many errors in every phase of the game with every unit, pretty much in every area. It’s just an inconsistent performance that even though there were some positive things out there, especially offensively, [they] were overridden by mistakes. Quite a few of them were self inflicted. We had our opportunities and didn’t take advantage of those as well as we should have either and the same thing in the kicking game. We have a long way to go. We have a lot of work to do. We’ll have to get back at it tomorrow. We have a long week for Washington and we’ll take advantage of that time and try to get a few of these things straightened out so we can perform a little bit better in game conditions. So that’s it." -- Patriot Coach Bill Belichick
Game Info from Reiss Pieces, Boston.com
Sorry, there is not a lot that can be said for this game. Brady played for two series. The Patriots definitely were trying to get the running game going. The Patriots also ran the 3- 4 Defense more than last week. As Coach Bill Belichick pointed out, there is a lot of work still left to do!
The Good:
Patriots LB Jerod Mayo registered a 6-yard sack of Bengals QB J.T. O'Sullivan to help force the Bengals to punt on the game's first drive.
Tom Brady completed 4 of 8 passes for 57 yards over two series.
The Bengals went for it on 4th and 7 at the New England 27, but Adalius Thomas registered a 1-yard sack to force a turnover on downs.
Bengals TE Daniel Coats hauled in a 27-yard pass from QB J.T. O'Sullivan after getting behind Patriots LB Shawn Crable, but safety Brandon McGowan made a big hit to jar the ball loose and cornerback Terrence Wheatley recovered for New England.
Patriots kicker Stephen Gostkowski booted a pair of field goals (32-yard and 41-yard)
The Bengals put together a lengthy 14-play drive that trekked to the Patriots 6. But without their starting kicker (and not wanting to go to Chad Ochocinco's foot again), Cincinnati went for it on fourth down and an incomplete pass gave the ball to the Patriots.
The Bad:
Patriots QB Tom Brady avoided getting hit hard while playing 24 snaps in last week's win over the Eagles, but he finally endured a big shot in the first quarter tonight. Bengals DE Robert Geathers ran straight past Patriots RT Nick Kaczur and absolutely flattened Brady on a first-down pass attempt.
Patriots RB BenJarvus Green Ellis fumbled at the Cincinnati 12 and defensive back Marvin White recovered for the Bengals. The forced fumble was credited to safety Tom Nelson.
Patriots safety Patrick Chung tried to haul in a punt early in the fourth quarter, but it went straight through him (officially scored a fumble). The Patriots averted disaster when Ray Ventrone tipped the ball to the side and Darius Butler fell on the ball at the New England 5.
Special teamer standout Matthew Slater loses awareness and has fair catch interference on a punt.
The Ugly:
Watching Chad Ochocinco booting the extra point with kicker Shayne Graham sidelined. Doug Flutie did it better!
Game Notes:
Belichick seemed upset in the aftermath of the team’s 7-6 loss to the Bengals, but a look at the tape seemed to soften his tone. “Within [the mistakes], there were plenty of good individual performances,” he said, also noting that there were times when four or five things were good on one play, but one other breakdown hurt the play and "if we could get that one thing straightened out that would make things go a lot better."
Quotes:
"I think it’s pretty obvious out there tonight that we certainly have a lot of work to do and a long way to go. I think we were pretty sloppy in every area of the game: had a lot of penalties, didn’t convert on third downs, missed too many tackles – just generally had too many mistakes, too many errors in every phase of the game with every unit, pretty much in every area. It’s just an inconsistent performance that even though there were some positive things out there, especially offensively, [they] were overridden by mistakes. Quite a few of them were self inflicted. We had our opportunities and didn’t take advantage of those as well as we should have either and the same thing in the kicking game. We have a long way to go. We have a lot of work to do. We’ll have to get back at it tomorrow. We have a long week for Washington and we’ll take advantage of that time and try to get a few of these things straightened out so we can perform a little bit better in game conditions. So that’s it." -- Patriot Coach Bill Belichick
Game Info from Reiss Pieces, Boston.com
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Patriots: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (Pre-season game 1)
Are you ready for some football? I had the opportunity to attend the Patriot - Eagles exhibition opener at Lincoln Financial Field. The Patriot faithful were definitely outnumbered this evening! As a Patriot fan, it was great to see QB Tom Brady back on the field commanding the team! It was also a lot of fun to hear the Eagle fans discussing (pretty passionately at times) their thoughts on the Michael Vick signing! Either the Patriots were in slow motion the second half of the game, or Buckley and Maclin were just that fast! Eagles Kicker David Akers missed a 43-yard field goal wide left with under a minute to play to keep the Patriots on top, 27-25.
The Good:
Quarterback Tom Brady is officially back! Brady tossed two touchdowns in his return to the field (both to tight end Chris Baker), while rookie Julian Edelman returned a punt 75 yards for another score for a 27 - 25 win over the Eagles in both team's exhibition opener at Lincoln Financial Field.
Sammy Morris led the team with 12 carries for 54 yards. Julian Edelman topped the team with five receptions for 37 yards. Jerod Mayo registered a team-high 5 tackles.
Patriots rookie Pat Chung blocked a 44-yard field goal attempt by David Akers with 46 seconds remaining in the first half.
Rookie receiver Julian Edelman totaled five receptions and had a 75-yard punt return for a score.
The Bad:
The Patriot defense looked slow and vulnerable at times on the field. (Note - one can see why the Patriots might consider playing more four-man fronts. It puts Jerod Mayo in more of a leadership position and opens opportunities to showcase his playmaking ability).
The Ugly:
Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was intercepted by Eagles cornerback Sheldon Brown on a long toss to Randy Moss. The throw was underthrown and off-target.
Tom Brady's return against the Philadelphia Eagles was overshadowed by a bigger comeback. QB Michael Vick stole the headlines from Brady with news that the recently reinstated quarterback had signed with the Eagles.
Game Notes:
Linebacker Jerod Mayo wore the communication device in his helmet for the Patriots' preseason opener against the Eagles. This is the second year that a defender can communicate with a coach through the device. Last year, Mike Vrabel (now with the Chiefs) was the primary Patriots defender with the device.
It would be too early to say that the Patriots are moving away from a base 3-4 alignment, but they've spent a lot of practice time on the four-man line and that was their primary package during the game.
Quotes:
"This is a real small step for this team in a long journey. We're on a mission this year. This is the first step, it's a small step, but it's a step in the right direction." -- Patriot QB Tom Brady
“It was good to come down here and win. You know Philadelphia is a good football team and they certainly hammered us last year and I was happy to see that we could at least be competitive this year. I thought that we played hard. Certainly there were a lot of mistakes and a lot of things that we still have to work on. It was good to see us make a few plays. We played better in the red area and on third down overall as a team. We got some production out of the kicking game and hit a few plays on offense and scoring in the red area. That was very important as far as final score goes." -- Patriot Coach Bill Belichick
"I have a lot to learn. That play -- the punt return -- everyone just executed the play the way we designed it to be. One thing led to another. Totally a team effort, the blocks were there. They did their job, I did mine." -- Patriot Rookie WR Julian Edelman
Game Info from Reiss Pieces, Boston.com
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Patriot News and Moves (as of 8/12/09)
Brady ticketed to start: The Boston Herald reports New England Patriots QB Tom Brady said he expects that he will make more than a cameo appearance in the team's preseason opener. Head coach Bill Belichick said he and Brady haven't talked about the plans they have for his playing time, and Brady said the same thing. However, when asked what he expects, Brady didn't hesitate. 'I'm expecting to play,' Brady said. 'There's no reason why I wouldn't. I've been out here doing everything.' Brady is a terrific competitor, and we're sure that he wants to feel how his knee responds in game action. If he gets hurt, everyone will bray about how terrible a decision it was to play him, but we trust Brady on this one. -- footballguys.com
There was no Patriots movement regarding either DT Vonnie Holliday or Kevin Carter, the veteran free agent defensive tackles who were brought in for visits within the last week. The chances of either signing are beginning to appear less likely. -- Boston Herald
After keeping tabs on 22 practices, Patriots owner Robert Kraft offered his assessment of Bill Belichick and his team. "This is Bill's 10th year, and this training camp, he's never worked harder," Kraft said. "The players have never worked harder." The team has had 15 full-pads workouts, which didn't go unnoticed. Kraft even offered a lighthearted jab at his buddy, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. "I heard that one of our big rivals in the Midwest just put pads on Monday for their first practice," Kraft joked. -- Boston Herald
Yesterday, the newest issue of Details magazine was released with Tom Brady styling on the cover. In the accompanying story, Brady is asked about his relationship with Bill Belichick and laughs about a tale of the coach scolding him. "And I'll be sitting there thinking, I'm a (freaking) nine-year veteran, I've won three (expletive) Super Bowls - he can kiss my (butt)," Brady told the magazine. Brady knows he left himself open to ribbing with the modeling shots. In 10 years, he said, "I've heard just about everything." -- Boston Herald
Singer Jon Bon Jovi, a noted friend of Bill Belichick's, watched the Patriots afternoon practice from the sidelines, toting a camera around his neck the entire time. Bon Jovi's son also was in attendance. -- Boston Herald
There was no Patriots movement regarding either DT Vonnie Holliday or Kevin Carter, the veteran free agent defensive tackles who were brought in for visits within the last week. The chances of either signing are beginning to appear less likely. -- Boston Herald
After keeping tabs on 22 practices, Patriots owner Robert Kraft offered his assessment of Bill Belichick and his team. "This is Bill's 10th year, and this training camp, he's never worked harder," Kraft said. "The players have never worked harder." The team has had 15 full-pads workouts, which didn't go unnoticed. Kraft even offered a lighthearted jab at his buddy, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. "I heard that one of our big rivals in the Midwest just put pads on Monday for their first practice," Kraft joked. -- Boston Herald
Yesterday, the newest issue of Details magazine was released with Tom Brady styling on the cover. In the accompanying story, Brady is asked about his relationship with Bill Belichick and laughs about a tale of the coach scolding him. "And I'll be sitting there thinking, I'm a (freaking) nine-year veteran, I've won three (expletive) Super Bowls - he can kiss my (butt)," Brady told the magazine. Brady knows he left himself open to ribbing with the modeling shots. In 10 years, he said, "I've heard just about everything." -- Boston Herald
Singer Jon Bon Jovi, a noted friend of Bill Belichick's, watched the Patriots afternoon practice from the sidelines, toting a camera around his neck the entire time. Bon Jovi's son also was in attendance. -- Boston Herald
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Patriot News and Moves (as of 8/9/09)
The Patriots bolstered their defense by acquiring two-time pro bowler DE/OLB Derrick Burgess from the Oakland Raiders. Burgess, 6-2, 260 pounds, is a veteran of eight NFL seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles (2001-2004) and the Oakland Raiders (2005-2008). Burgess originally joined the NFL as a third-round draft pick by Philadelphia (63rd overall) out of Mississippi in 2001. He has accumulated 227 total tackles, 47 sacks during his career. In his two pro bowl seasons ('05 and '06) Burgess accumulated 27 sacks combined.
Ian R. Rapoport, from the Boston Herald, notes that when Belichick finally traded with the Eagles for Greg Lewis in March, it was a long time coming. In fact, the Patriots coach disclosed yesterday that he has actually been attempting to trade for the versatile receiver since he was a rookie in 2003. And when Belichick spoke with Eagles coach Andy Reid about the eventual trade that sent cornerback Ellis Hobbs to Philadelphia in April, they joked about whether Reid wanted to reclaim Lewis.
"Greg has killed us every time we played them," Belichick said. "We haven't been able to cover him. We knew a lot about him coming out (of Illinois for the draft) and we spent a lot of time with the (Illini players). We were interested. It was like an annual conversation I had with Andy Reid, where we would discuss Greg Lewis. He's just a guy that we've had a lot of interest in who fits our system. He's a smart guy, a high-character guy at a really good price who is versatile."
Ian R. Rapoport, from the Boston Herald, notes that when Belichick finally traded with the Eagles for Greg Lewis in March, it was a long time coming. In fact, the Patriots coach disclosed yesterday that he has actually been attempting to trade for the versatile receiver since he was a rookie in 2003. And when Belichick spoke with Eagles coach Andy Reid about the eventual trade that sent cornerback Ellis Hobbs to Philadelphia in April, they joked about whether Reid wanted to reclaim Lewis.
"Greg has killed us every time we played them," Belichick said. "We haven't been able to cover him. We knew a lot about him coming out (of Illinois for the draft) and we spent a lot of time with the (Illini players). We were interested. It was like an annual conversation I had with Andy Reid, where we would discuss Greg Lewis. He's just a guy that we've had a lot of interest in who fits our system. He's a smart guy, a high-character guy at a really good price who is versatile."
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Patriot News and Moves (as of 8/5/09)
Adam Teicher, of The Kansas City Star, reports the Kansas City Chiefs have claimed free-agent QB Matt Gutierrez (Patriots) off waivers from the New England Patriots. It just makes sense. The former Michigan and Idaho State quarterback was released by the Patriots yesterday when the team decided to sign former Raiders quarterback Andrew Walter. Gutierrez could have either landed in Denver or in Kansas City as both Josh McDaniels and Scott Pioli are familiar with his playing style. He's not a bad quarterback, and could battle with Tyler Thigpen for the second-string job behind Matt Cassel. The Chiefs have been a landing spot for former Patriots now that former New England Vice President of Player Personnel Scott Pioli is general manager there. Matt Cassel, Mike Vrabel, Vince Redd and Monty Beisel, all former Patriots, are on the Kansas City roster. -- footballguys.com/boston.com
Kevin Carter deal not imminent? Free agent Kevin Carter spent yesterday at Gillette Stadium, a source close to the defensive end said. The 6-6, 305-pounder, who most recently played for the Buccaneers, might work out for the Pats today. While Carter was interested enough in the Patriots to make a visit, it is not clear if a deal is imminent. If he signs, the 35-year-old Carter would provide some depth at end. -- Boston Herald
Madden 10: Patriots in Super Bowl; Brady MVP? We're not saying the Madden video game series is always correct with its simulations, but Patriots fans might be encouraged to know the popular gaming franchise has predicted a trip to Fort Lauderdale and Super Bowl XLIV for New England based on the company's official preseason simulation (against the Eagles again!). What's more, Madden's simulation predicts an impressive bounce-back season for quarterback Tom Brady, who the game pegs to be named NFL Most Valuable Player after throwing for 4,500 yards and 47 touchdowns. -- Boston Globe
Christopher L. Gasper, from the Boston Globe, notes that you know training camp is off to an uneventful start when after six days the biggest controversy revolves around backup quarterbacks. Tom Brady is healthy and entrenched as the starter, but there is some intrigue regarding who will be Brady's backup, as the Patriots brought in veteran Andrew Walter to compete with second-year signal caller Kevin O'Connell. -- Boston Globe
(Note - Undrafted free agent Brian Hoyer may be destined for the practice squad now that Walter is on the roster)
Belichick plays mix and match: Patriots coach Bill Belichick said the time is coming for him to begin experimenting with players at various positions. It happens every camp, as left tackles become right tackles and inside linebackers become outside linebackers. "(The point is to) build up our depth and to also possibly create more value for the player with his position versatility," Belichick said. "A lot of guys that have kind of been in one spot are reaching a point here where you'll start to see them in some different spots." -- Boston Herald
The Patriots received a special visitor, as former Broncos coach Mike Shanahan spent the day watching as a guest of Bill Belichick. -- Boston Herald
Kevin Carter deal not imminent? Free agent Kevin Carter spent yesterday at Gillette Stadium, a source close to the defensive end said. The 6-6, 305-pounder, who most recently played for the Buccaneers, might work out for the Pats today. While Carter was interested enough in the Patriots to make a visit, it is not clear if a deal is imminent. If he signs, the 35-year-old Carter would provide some depth at end. -- Boston Herald
Madden 10: Patriots in Super Bowl; Brady MVP? We're not saying the Madden video game series is always correct with its simulations, but Patriots fans might be encouraged to know the popular gaming franchise has predicted a trip to Fort Lauderdale and Super Bowl XLIV for New England based on the company's official preseason simulation (against the Eagles again!). What's more, Madden's simulation predicts an impressive bounce-back season for quarterback Tom Brady, who the game pegs to be named NFL Most Valuable Player after throwing for 4,500 yards and 47 touchdowns. -- Boston Globe
Christopher L. Gasper, from the Boston Globe, notes that you know training camp is off to an uneventful start when after six days the biggest controversy revolves around backup quarterbacks. Tom Brady is healthy and entrenched as the starter, but there is some intrigue regarding who will be Brady's backup, as the Patriots brought in veteran Andrew Walter to compete with second-year signal caller Kevin O'Connell. -- Boston Globe
(Note - Undrafted free agent Brian Hoyer may be destined for the practice squad now that Walter is on the roster)
Belichick plays mix and match: Patriots coach Bill Belichick said the time is coming for him to begin experimenting with players at various positions. It happens every camp, as left tackles become right tackles and inside linebackers become outside linebackers. "(The point is to) build up our depth and to also possibly create more value for the player with his position versatility," Belichick said. "A lot of guys that have kind of been in one spot are reaching a point here where you'll start to see them in some different spots." -- Boston Herald
The Patriots received a special visitor, as former Broncos coach Mike Shanahan spent the day watching as a guest of Bill Belichick. -- Boston Herald
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Patriot News and Moves (from 8/4/09)
Tom Brady believes receiving substantial playing time in preseason games is a must. Thanks to a foot injury, the Patriots quarterback missed all four preseason games in 2008. He wonders if an increased level of preparation would have helped him avoid torn ligaments in his left knee that forced him to sit out virtually all of last season. "It was unfortunate that I wasn't out there last year because hopefully that really could've helped me out in terms of my timing for the first game," Brady said yesterday in an interview on Sirius Satellite Radio's Mad Dog Channel. "You never know if I could've avoided the hit that I took had I been out there to understand the presence in the pocket. So I want to be out there to participate." -- Boston Herald
The Patriots are scheduled to host free agent defensive end Kevin Carter on a visit to Gillette Stadium, according to an NFL source. Carter, 35, has been one of the NFL's most durable players over his 14-year career, never missing a regular-season game. ... Carter could add depth and production on the defensive line, although he has turned down other overtures earlier this year. The Lions had visited with Carter and were interested in signing him. -- Boston Globe
Jeff Zillgitt, of USA Today, reports New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said the team feels like they have a good competition at running back this year. RBs Fred Taylor, Laurence Maroney, Sammy Morris and Kevin Faulk are all in the mix. The Patriots have not had a 1,000-yard rusher since 2004, and so far there it appears they will have a committee approach again in 2009. Belichick said he plans to put the running backs out on the field and let them compete. 'I think we would be able to get production from all of them because that's what they have done in the past,' Belichick said. -- USA Today
Christopher Gasper, from the Boston Globe, reports Kevin O'Connell acknowledged that in his second camp he expects more out of himself and so does the team, but he has been a little inconsistent during the first four days of camp. Belichick said Friday that O'Connell progressed during the offseason. "I think he certainly understands the offense better than he did last year," said Belichick. "He's got to continue to work on the execution. The offense demands a lot of different things and has a lot of different elements to it. Multiple receivers, multiple tight ends, play actions, spread offense - all those kinds of things. I think Kevin's come a long way in terms of being under center, which is something he did very little of in college at San Diego State. Most of the time he was in the shotgun, so some of the things under center are mechanically a lot better than they were last year." -- Boston Globe
The Patriots are scheduled to host free agent defensive end Kevin Carter on a visit to Gillette Stadium, according to an NFL source. Carter, 35, has been one of the NFL's most durable players over his 14-year career, never missing a regular-season game. ... Carter could add depth and production on the defensive line, although he has turned down other overtures earlier this year. The Lions had visited with Carter and were interested in signing him. -- Boston Globe
Jeff Zillgitt, of USA Today, reports New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick said the team feels like they have a good competition at running back this year. RBs Fred Taylor, Laurence Maroney, Sammy Morris and Kevin Faulk are all in the mix. The Patriots have not had a 1,000-yard rusher since 2004, and so far there it appears they will have a committee approach again in 2009. Belichick said he plans to put the running backs out on the field and let them compete. 'I think we would be able to get production from all of them because that's what they have done in the past,' Belichick said. -- USA Today
Christopher Gasper, from the Boston Globe, reports Kevin O'Connell acknowledged that in his second camp he expects more out of himself and so does the team, but he has been a little inconsistent during the first four days of camp. Belichick said Friday that O'Connell progressed during the offseason. "I think he certainly understands the offense better than he did last year," said Belichick. "He's got to continue to work on the execution. The offense demands a lot of different things and has a lot of different elements to it. Multiple receivers, multiple tight ends, play actions, spread offense - all those kinds of things. I think Kevin's come a long way in terms of being under center, which is something he did very little of in college at San Diego State. Most of the time he was in the shotgun, so some of the things under center are mechanically a lot better than they were last year." -- Boston Globe
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Patriot News and Moves (from 8/3/09)
Happy Birthday QB Tom Brady - Brady turned 32 on 8/3/09
The Patriots have released third-year veteran Matt Gutierrez.
The Patriots have officially announced that they've signed free-agent quarterback Andrew Walter. Walter (6-6, 230) spent the last four seasons with Oakland. He entered the league in 2005 as a third-round draft choice out of Arizona State. Walter has started nine of 15 games and completed 174 of 333 passes for 1,919 yards and three touchdowns.
In signing Andrew Walter and releasing Matt Gutierrez, the Patriots put a priority on adding more experience behind quarterback Tom Brady. The club had also worked out five-year veteran Cleo Lemon last Friday.
Alex Marvez of Foxsports.com reported that the Patriots are interested in free-agent defensive end Kevin Carter. Carter has one of the more remarkable statistics for a defensive lineman in that he has never missed a game over his 14-year career. Carter is scheduled to visit with the club on Tuesday. -- foxsports.com
Outside linebacker Vince Redd, who was waived by the Patriots on Sunday, has been claimed by the Kansas City Chiefs, according to Adam Caplan of Scout.com. The Chiefs' general manager, Scott Pioli, spent the last nine years in New England running the personnel department.
Pats DT Jarvis Green denies saying he wants to play for Saints. Did he really mean it when he was quoted as saying he wanted to finish off his career with the New Orleans Saints? "This is my last year with the Patriots ," Green was quoted in The Courier of Houma, La., and on HoumaToday as saying. "I'd love to come home and finish off as a Saint." Green claimed the above sentiment was completely false. The Louisiana native, who is in the final year of a contract with the Patriots that will pay him $2.5 million this season. -- Boston Herald
Joey Galloway - It was Pats or Steelers: Joey Galloway's thought process as a free agent was much simpler. "I wanted to win," said Galloway, entering his 15th season. "That's it. I talked to here and Pittsburgh." Galloway picked the Pats over the defending Super Bowl champs, giving Belichick his much-needed, do-everything receiver. Four days into camp, the union between the former eighth overall pick in 1995 and one of the league's most prolific offenses appears positive. Ask Galloway about playing with Moss, Welker and quarterback Tom Brady . All you get is gushing. "These guys are talented," said Galloway, who last played for the Buccaneers. "That's what you see first. That's not a secret. They're intelligent guys. That makes it a lot easier to go out on a football field and communicate." -- Boston Herald
Former Pats WR Troy Brown invests in beer company: Since his 2008 retirement, former Patriot WR Troy Brown is an investor in Narragansett Beer, among other projects. He said fans still recognize him, an experience that he cherishes. "People will talk about the games they saw me play in my career and how much they appreciated the way I played the game," said Brown, the franchise's all-time leader in catches with 557. "It's got to make you feel good. To still be recognized in the community somewhere, outside of your helmet, it's a good thing." -- Boston Herald
The Patriots have released third-year veteran Matt Gutierrez.
The Patriots have officially announced that they've signed free-agent quarterback Andrew Walter. Walter (6-6, 230) spent the last four seasons with Oakland. He entered the league in 2005 as a third-round draft choice out of Arizona State. Walter has started nine of 15 games and completed 174 of 333 passes for 1,919 yards and three touchdowns.
In signing Andrew Walter and releasing Matt Gutierrez, the Patriots put a priority on adding more experience behind quarterback Tom Brady. The club had also worked out five-year veteran Cleo Lemon last Friday.
Alex Marvez of Foxsports.com reported that the Patriots are interested in free-agent defensive end Kevin Carter. Carter has one of the more remarkable statistics for a defensive lineman in that he has never missed a game over his 14-year career. Carter is scheduled to visit with the club on Tuesday. -- foxsports.com
Outside linebacker Vince Redd, who was waived by the Patriots on Sunday, has been claimed by the Kansas City Chiefs, according to Adam Caplan of Scout.com. The Chiefs' general manager, Scott Pioli, spent the last nine years in New England running the personnel department.
Pats DT Jarvis Green denies saying he wants to play for Saints. Did he really mean it when he was quoted as saying he wanted to finish off his career with the New Orleans Saints? "This is my last year with the Patriots ," Green was quoted in The Courier of Houma, La., and on HoumaToday as saying. "I'd love to come home and finish off as a Saint." Green claimed the above sentiment was completely false. The Louisiana native, who is in the final year of a contract with the Patriots that will pay him $2.5 million this season. -- Boston Herald
Joey Galloway - It was Pats or Steelers: Joey Galloway's thought process as a free agent was much simpler. "I wanted to win," said Galloway, entering his 15th season. "That's it. I talked to here and Pittsburgh." Galloway picked the Pats over the defending Super Bowl champs, giving Belichick his much-needed, do-everything receiver. Four days into camp, the union between the former eighth overall pick in 1995 and one of the league's most prolific offenses appears positive. Ask Galloway about playing with Moss, Welker and quarterback Tom Brady . All you get is gushing. "These guys are talented," said Galloway, who last played for the Buccaneers. "That's what you see first. That's not a secret. They're intelligent guys. That makes it a lot easier to go out on a football field and communicate." -- Boston Herald
Former Pats WR Troy Brown invests in beer company: Since his 2008 retirement, former Patriot WR Troy Brown is an investor in Narragansett Beer, among other projects. He said fans still recognize him, an experience that he cherishes. "People will talk about the games they saw me play in my career and how much they appreciated the way I played the game," said Brown, the franchise's all-time leader in catches with 557. "It's got to make you feel good. To still be recognized in the community somewhere, outside of your helmet, it's a good thing." -- Boston Herald
Monday, August 3, 2009
Patriot News and Moves (8-2-09) Part2
Patriots great Troy Brown stopped by the team's walkthrough practice Sunday afternoon and chatted with reporters. Brown told reporters he didn't rule out getting back into the game in a coaching or personnel capacity. "Football is what I know best," said Brown. "That's what I did for 30 years of my life. After doing it for so long I want to try some different stuff. But we'll see what happens. It's always in the back of my mind." -- Boston Globe
Robert Kraft on interest in Michael Vick: "Well, I think each situation would probably be unique and I can't speak about how things work in other areas or other teams. This is a complicated one. I would think that most owners would want to have some kind of input into the decision, at least, I wouldn't do it from a football end but just understanding everything. But for us, that's an academic problem because we've got the No. 1 player at that position in the world as far as I'm concerned and why would we ever want to do anything that would take him off the field for one play?"
The Patriots released second-year outside linebacker Vince Redd. The team also signed free-agent outside linebacker Rob Ninkovich and rookie defensive back Jamar Love. -- Boston Globe
One nugget from Bill Belichick's SIRIUS Radio interview to pass along: He called the competition at tight end, with Benjamin Watson, Chris Baker, Alex Smith, David Thomas and Tyson DeVree, the best he's seen in his 10 years with the Patriots. -- Boston Globe
The Patriots are the NFL's oldest team - an average of 27 years, 93 days, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. -- Boston Herald
Robert Kraft on interest in Michael Vick: "Well, I think each situation would probably be unique and I can't speak about how things work in other areas or other teams. This is a complicated one. I would think that most owners would want to have some kind of input into the decision, at least, I wouldn't do it from a football end but just understanding everything. But for us, that's an academic problem because we've got the No. 1 player at that position in the world as far as I'm concerned and why would we ever want to do anything that would take him off the field for one play?"
The Patriots released second-year outside linebacker Vince Redd. The team also signed free-agent outside linebacker Rob Ninkovich and rookie defensive back Jamar Love. -- Boston Globe
One nugget from Bill Belichick's SIRIUS Radio interview to pass along: He called the competition at tight end, with Benjamin Watson, Chris Baker, Alex Smith, David Thomas and Tyson DeVree, the best he's seen in his 10 years with the Patriots. -- Boston Globe
The Patriots are the NFL's oldest team - an average of 27 years, 93 days, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. -- Boston Herald
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Patriot News and Moves (8-2-09)
Nose Tackle Vince Wilfork is entering the sixth year of the six-year rookie contract he signed in 2004. He would have preferred a lucrative long-term extension.
The popular website Profootballtalk.com is reporting that the Patriots hosted veteran free-agent quarterback Cleo Lemon on a visit at Gillette Stadium on Friday.
The Patriots announced that punter Tom Malone has been waived. The Patriots had been the only NFL team to open training camp with two punters and two snappers on the roster. Waiving Malone opens a roster spot, perhaps for a player at a different position.
Safety Antwain Spann, who was released by the Patriots on Monday, has signed a contract to join the Buffalo Bills.
Brady expects to play in Pre-season: Quarterback Tom Brady's injured left knee is progressing to the point that he should be on the field for preseason games. In a wide-ranging group interview, Brady was asked if he thinks he'll play in the preseason, and if he'll push to play.
"Yeah, I think I'll play," he said. "Last year, it wasn't like I wasn't supposed to play. I would have loved to have played, but some circumstances came up where I couldn't. I think it's really important for a quarterback to be out there playing. If you're the leader of the offense, you have to be out there leading in the preseason and the practices. I'm excited for those games, because I think we can make improvements in those games."
Matchups will determine RBs playing time: Mike Reiss, from the Boston Globe, reports Kevin Faulk should get the most playing time in the Patriots backfield because he's such a big part of the passing game. When it comes to the more traditional running back role, Reiss thinks it will be a committee, with Fred Taylor getting the first crack, followed by Sammy Morris and Laurence Maroney. Matchups against the opposition should play a big part in determining playing time.
Belichick on Michael Vick: Here is a nugget from Bill Belichick's interview with SIRIUS NFL Radio, in which he explained his approach in answering questions from media members about Michael Vick.
Bill Belichick: (laughs) "Yeah, you know, sometimes - and you know what, I'm not trying to be evasive or difficult. Really, if it was a simple yes or no answer I'd be happy to give it. In a lot of cases there are different shades of gray. Sometimes players, depending on the situation, things can change quickly. Players you don't have interest in, a short period of time later you do, and players that you do have interest in, a short period of time later you don't for one reason or another. Pat (Kirwan), you've been on that side of it before and you know how that can change. We were actually in a situation very recently, within the last 48 hours, where as a group staff we were talking about a particular player and we kind of collectively said, 'You know, we really don't think we have much interest in that player at this time.' And by the next morning we were talking to that player and his agent about trying to get something done. That's kind of the nature of it and I'm always reluctant to go out there and say, 'We're not going to do this,' or, 'We're not going to do that,' and then a day or two or a week later then you look like an idiot when you've changed. Really, the truth of the matter is, things do change and the situation changes and that changes what your perspective is on a different situation, whether it's a player or it could be a lot of things."
Source: boston.com
The popular website Profootballtalk.com is reporting that the Patriots hosted veteran free-agent quarterback Cleo Lemon on a visit at Gillette Stadium on Friday.
The Patriots announced that punter Tom Malone has been waived. The Patriots had been the only NFL team to open training camp with two punters and two snappers on the roster. Waiving Malone opens a roster spot, perhaps for a player at a different position.
Safety Antwain Spann, who was released by the Patriots on Monday, has signed a contract to join the Buffalo Bills.
Brady expects to play in Pre-season: Quarterback Tom Brady's injured left knee is progressing to the point that he should be on the field for preseason games. In a wide-ranging group interview, Brady was asked if he thinks he'll play in the preseason, and if he'll push to play.
"Yeah, I think I'll play," he said. "Last year, it wasn't like I wasn't supposed to play. I would have loved to have played, but some circumstances came up where I couldn't. I think it's really important for a quarterback to be out there playing. If you're the leader of the offense, you have to be out there leading in the preseason and the practices. I'm excited for those games, because I think we can make improvements in those games."
Matchups will determine RBs playing time: Mike Reiss, from the Boston Globe, reports Kevin Faulk should get the most playing time in the Patriots backfield because he's such a big part of the passing game. When it comes to the more traditional running back role, Reiss thinks it will be a committee, with Fred Taylor getting the first crack, followed by Sammy Morris and Laurence Maroney. Matchups against the opposition should play a big part in determining playing time.
Belichick on Michael Vick: Here is a nugget from Bill Belichick's interview with SIRIUS NFL Radio, in which he explained his approach in answering questions from media members about Michael Vick.
Bill Belichick: (laughs) "Yeah, you know, sometimes - and you know what, I'm not trying to be evasive or difficult. Really, if it was a simple yes or no answer I'd be happy to give it. In a lot of cases there are different shades of gray. Sometimes players, depending on the situation, things can change quickly. Players you don't have interest in, a short period of time later you do, and players that you do have interest in, a short period of time later you don't for one reason or another. Pat (Kirwan), you've been on that side of it before and you know how that can change. We were actually in a situation very recently, within the last 48 hours, where as a group staff we were talking about a particular player and we kind of collectively said, 'You know, we really don't think we have much interest in that player at this time.' And by the next morning we were talking to that player and his agent about trying to get something done. That's kind of the nature of it and I'm always reluctant to go out there and say, 'We're not going to do this,' or, 'We're not going to do that,' and then a day or two or a week later then you look like an idiot when you've changed. Really, the truth of the matter is, things do change and the situation changes and that changes what your perspective is on a different situation, whether it's a player or it could be a lot of things."
Source: boston.com
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