2008 DRAFT BOARD

Round Selection Overall How Acq.

1 7 7 From San Francisco
2 31 62 Assigned Selection
3 4 69 From Oakland
3 31 94 Assigned Selection
4 31 * Assigned Selection
5 3 * Assigned Selection
6 31 * Assigned Selection
7 31 * Assigned Selection

*-To be determined following assignment of compensatory selections
NOTES

Round 1, Selection 7 – The Patriots traded a first-round selection in the 2007 NFL Draft (No. 28 overall – T Joe Staley) to the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a first-round selection in the 2008 NFL Draft and a fourth-round selection in 2007 NFL Draft, (later traded to Oakland for WR Randy Moss).

Round 3, Selection 4 – The Patriots traded a third-round selection in the 2007 NFL Draft (91 overall – T Mario Henderson) to the Oakland Raiders in exchange for a third-round selection in the 2008 NFL Draft and a seventh-round selection in the 2007 NFL Draft (211 overall – LB Oscar Lua).

2008 Home & Away Opponents

The 2008 Patriots schedule has yet to be released, but we do know who we're playing. Here's a quick rundown of the teams we'll play at Home as well as those the Patriots are traveling to meet, listed in alphabetical order:

Home games

Bills,Broncos,Cardinals,Chiefs

Dolphins,Jets,Rams,Steelers

Away games

Bills,Chargers,Colts,Dolphins

49ers,Jets,Raiders,Seahawks

Veteran Bryant lands in the Patriots' corner

Globe Staff / March 21, 2008
The Patriots have apparently decided to go the Filene's Basement route in free agency to fill needs at cornerback. Yesterday, New England signed Fernando Bryant to a one-year deal.


A nine-year veteran who spent the last four seasons playing for the Detroit Lions, Bryant joins seasoned cornerbacks Jason Webster and Lewis Sanders, both of whom also signed one-year deals with the Patriots, as free agents brought in following the departures of Asante Samuel (Philadelphia Eagles) and Randall Gay (New Orleans Saints).

All three come with starting experience and are low-risk, potential high-reward additions.

The 5-foot-10-inch, 184-pound Bryant, who was due a $3.35 million base salary for 2008, was released last month. He started all 16 games last season for Detroit, recording two interceptions and 14 passes defended, matching career highs, despite a foot injury.

"Adding a cornerback with Fernando's experience and production is a good opportunity for us," said Patriots coach Bill Belichick.

When healthy, Bryant, owner of seven career interceptions, has been a starting cornerback - he has started 109 of 110 career games. But durability is the caveat emptor he carries.

Last season marked the first time since 2003, the last of his five seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Bryant played a full 16-game slate.

In 2006, he missed six games - one because of the death of his grandmother - and had to sit out the final four games after suffering a concussion in a 28-21 loss to the Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Bryant played just two games in 2005 before he was placed on injured reserve with a clavicle injury. In 2004, he sat out six games because of injuries, and was sidelined the final four by an ankle injury. He played 16 games in 2002, but in 2001, he missed six games with a foot injury.

Like Sanders, Bryant has a connection to Dom Capers, the Patriots' new special assistant/secondary coach. Drafted in the first round (26th overall) by the Jaguars in 1999, Bryant played his first two seasons in the league for Capers, who was the Jaguars' defensive coordinator in 1999 and 2000.

The Patriots have eight players who can play cornerback, led by Ellis Hobbs, who underwent surgery Feb. 12 for a torn labrum in his shoulder. The other cornerbacks on the roster are Brandon Meriweather, who saw the majority of his playing time at safety last season, Mike Richardson, Tim Mixon, and Antwain Spann.

NFL spokesman Greg Aiello offered an update on negotiations with former Patriots employee Matt Walsh, who claims to have additional material that could be relevant to the Patriots' illicit videotaping practices. Aiello said lead attorneys on both sides, Walsh's lawyer, Michael N. Levy of McKee Nelson, and NFL outside counsel Gregg Levy (no relation), are working on documentation. Aiello said "things continue to progress." The sides announced March 9 they made "substantial progress" toward an agreement that would allow Walsh to come forward.

© Copyright 2008 Globe Newspaper Company.
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Light not ready to sack line over Giant loss

By Karen Guregian Thursday, March 27, 2008 http://www.bostonherald.com N.E. Patriots

FOXBORO - Matt Light [stats] has a pretty good idea how Patriots [team stats] fans view the offensive line in wake of what transpired in the Super Bowl last month. Whatever their opinion, he’s not going to avoid the issue.
Yesterday, the left tackle talked about the line’s collective disappearing act against the New York Giants. In fact, he addressed the topic without much prompting. One might say he tackled it head-on.

“Obviously, it didn’t work out very well in that game. We just didn’t perform well. I’m not going to go back and bring up every last detail. We didn’t execute the way we normally do,” Light said of the line, which didn’t provide its usual protection for quarterback Tom Brady [stats] against Michael Strahan, Osi Umenyiora & Co. “Their defense also played a great game. That’s a great football team.”

The five sacks and 20-odd hits on Brady were more the exception than the rule in assessing how the offensive line protected the quarterback during the season.
The O-line was a strength. It was dependable, giving Brady time to set records, claim an MVP award and post all-world passing numbers. It also produced three Pro Bowl players in Light, guard Logan Mankins [stats] and center Dan Koppen.
Light doesn’t believe the unit should be tossed to the curb over one game, as some of its harshest critics might suggest.

“We shouldn’t forget about all of those good things we’ve done in the past. We still have a great group of guys,” Light said. “Up front, we have guys that have been together a long period of time. It’s pretty unique.”

That’s not to say Light finds fault with some of the criticism. He’s just not going to dwell on it.
“I’ve always been a firm believer people can say whatever they want,” he said. “I don’t listen to what my kids say. So I’m not going to listen to negativity from fans. It’s their right to say whatever they want, and I respect that. I think the only person anyone should listen to, whether you’re a professional athlete or the guy working down the street in a 9-to-5 job . . . is your immediate family and close friends. Other than that, I could care less what people say.”
Listening to Light, the eighth-year veteran doesn’t need anyone whipping him. He sounds like his own worst enemy.

“I can list a hundred things to improve on from each game. You can keep counting for a long time what I need to work on,” he said with a smile. “We never lack for ingredients for that (humble) pie.”

Light is back at Gillette Stadium this week, participating in the Pats’ offseason conditioning program.

“I think at this time of the year, you start to think about the things you need to improve on,” he said. “Your main focus is to get your strength back to where it needs to be through the offseason conditioning program, and then start building on the things you didn’t do so well during the season.

“I think each guy, whether they write it down or not, have goals they want to achieve, and things they want to improve on and do better. That’s what we do at this time. And hopefully come training camp, we’ll all be healthy and ready to roll.”

Light joked the time off since the Super Bowl has seemed more like a bye week, as opposed to an actual vacation. He spent early March enrolled in a workshop at Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management as part of the NFL’s business management and entrepreneurial program.
Given he runs a charitable foundation - he has a golf trip to Ireland planned in July - any knowledge helps. Plus, Light is involved in other business ventures.

“The more you know, the less money you’ll lose,” he said with a laugh.
Light applies part of that theory to the offensive line.

“All of the things that happened to us last season are in the memory bank,” he said. “We’ll draw on all the experiences that happened to us, both good and bad. It’s always a new year.”

Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1083176

Pats eye prepaid parking pass for season ticket-holders

By Scott Van Voorhis Monday, March 31, 2008 http://www.bostonherald.com N.E. Patriots

The New England Patriots [team stats] are studying some changes to their lineup this offseason - the parking lineup that is.

The team’s front office is reviewing thousands of questionnaires sent to season-ticket holders aimed at gauging interest in a prepaid parking pass that would cover the entire season, said Stacey James, director of communications for the Pats.
Still, no decision has been made on whether to issue such passes, or even whether such a move would come this season, James said. Any change would involve careful consideration, he said. And team executives would work with a traffic consultant to sort out the issue.
“Every year we are trying to focus on the things or areas to improve, both on and off the field, and become more efficient on and off the field,” James said.
Currently media members, luxury suite holders and employees are the only ones right now with parking passes, with average fans paying cash - $40 - and jockeying for the best spot they can snag.

In theory, anyway, passes could speed up the flow of traffic, cutting out the time-consuming cash transactions.

While the Pats study the idea of a pre-paid parking pass, it may be one of the few areas where one of the sports world’s top franchises is behind the times.
A number of other pro teams issue season parking passes for fans, said Marc Ganis, head of Chicago-based Sports Corp.

While there are likely to be long-term gains in traffic efficiency, any shift to a new system could also bring some short-term pain.

“Disrupting traffic patterns can be a problem, especially when you have one road servicing the stadium,” Ganis said.

The team’s next step, if the decision is made to explore the issue further, is to hold focus groups with fans, James said.

Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1083974

Seward looks like a fit for Pats ‘D’

By John Tomase Friday, March 7, 2008 http://www.bostonherald.com N.E. Patriots

Anyone wondering why the Patriots [team stats] hosted restricted free agent linebacker Adam Seward yesterday should consider the words of Steve Johns, his position coach at UNLV.
“He’s a very quick learner,” Johns said. “He’s the son of a coach and understands concepts. He’s a very physical, tough kid. He’s a workhorse. He just makes plays.”
Johns would know. Now the linebackers coach at Navy, he had Seward for four years with the Runnin’ Rebels under coach John Robinson. He watched Seward transition seamlessly from the middle in the 4-3 he played his first two years to inside linebacker in the 3-4 for his final two.
The Patriots need to get younger at linebacker and the 25-year-old Seward fits the bill. At 6-foot-2, 248 pounds, he’s the size they seek in the middle, and his college experience in the 3-4 helps.
The Carolina Panthers offered him the lowest restricted free agent tender, which means if the Patriots sign him to an offer sheet and the Panthers decline to match it, the Pats will only surrender a fifth-round pick, which is where Seward was selected in 2005.
A source close to Seward said last night that the meeting with the Pats went well, and he expects to receive a contract offer.
“When you see the kind of defense the Patriots play, that’s kind of what would fit Adam,” Johns said. “He’s bigger physically than a Tedy Bruschi [stats] type, although I wouldn’t say he’s as big as Junior Seau. He’s got all the tools. He runs well and he’s big and tough. When I look at that defense, Adam would be a nice fit for what they do, especially as the A gap guy in the odd front. He can stack behind the nose guard there. It would be a good spot for him.”
Seward has been limited mainly to special teams, and would likely fill that role with the Patriots as well. How much time he could see in a base defense is partly tied to the health of his foot, which has been an issue since college.
Seward suffered a stress fracture before his senior year and played with a pin inserted in his fifth metatarsal, but that did far more damage than expected. The pin snapped and his draft stock plummeted. Then, he broke the foot in Carolina’s fourth game and missed the rest of the season.
“He was obviously hobbled with us and it never really went away,” Johns said. “But I think it’s better now.”
Johns said there’s no questioning Seward’s toughness. He was a state champion wrestler in high school and is best served, he believes, in the heart of the defense.
Seward left UNLV in 2004 as the Mountain West Conference’s all-time leading tackler (433). He played alongside Ryan Claridge and both were selected in the fifth round of the 2005 draft, Seward by the Panthers (No. 149) and Claridge by the Pats (170).
Claridge never really found a role with the Patriots, was slowed by shoulder injuries, and cut two years ago. Seward’s first professional tackle came against the Patriots in 2005, when he dropped Corey Dillon [stats] for a loss.
“Adam wasn’t so much a dynamic sideline to sideline player as a workhorse,” Johns said. “Claridge was a little more dynamic, made more spectacular plays. Adam was just solid. He would run and make plays, but he did most of his work from tackle to tackle. Adam had more of an understanding of the game and defensive schemes, which is probably why he’s still hanging on and playing in the NFL.”
Johns believes a 3-4 team represents a much better fit than a 4-3 team like Carolina.
“That’s probably a good, fair assessment,” Johns said. “He’s not an NFL 4-3 guy. He was a good college 4-3 guy, but not for the NFL. Hopefully he gets a shot in New England. That would be great.”
The Patriots also made a minor move yesterday, signing cornerback Lewis Sanders. The 29-year-old is an eight-year veteran who played with the Browns, Texans and Falcons. The 6-1, 210-pounder started 25 games in his career and is considered a solid special teams player.
The Patriots also made official the signing of free agent safety Tank Williams.Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1078486

Pats add a Tank for some safety

By Karen Guregian / Patriots Notebook Thursday, March 6,

2008 http://www.bostonherald.com N.E. Patriots

Little by little, the Patriots [team stats] are patching the holes on defense. Yesterday, they added more depth to the secondary by signing former Minnesota Vikings safety Tank Williams.
The St. Paul Pioneer Press was the first to report the move, as Williams and the Pats agreed to a one-year deal.
It’s the second signing in as many days to shore up the defensive backfield. On Tuesday, the Pats inked cornerback Jason Webster to a one-year deal.
Williams, 27, plays both safety positions and is regarded as a big hitter. He’ll likely be a fill-in behind Rodney Harrison [stats] and James Sanders [stats], essentially taking over for the departed Eugene Wilson, who is testing the free market but has yet to sign with a team.
Williams began his career in Tennessee, spending four seasons with the Titans, who selected him in the second round (45th overall) of the 2002 draft.
In 2006, when he joined the Vikings, he suffered a freak injury during training camp, fracturing his kneecap while backpedaling doing a drill.
Last season, the 6-foot-2, 223-pounder appeared in 13 games with two starts. The Vikings wanted to retain him, but Williams explored his options after they signed former Bengal Madieu Williams.
Meanwhile, details of Webster’s deal became available. The Pats will pay the cornerback a base salary of $730,000.
Moss salutes Favre
Randy Moss released a statement on his Web site regarding the retirement of Packers quarterback Brett Favre.
“It has been a blessing and a privilege to watch Brett Favre in his prime, with the MVPs and the Super Bowls,” the Patriots receiver wrote on therealrandymoss.com. “He is a great competitor and he will be missed.
“All I can say is, ‘Brett, I love you and I enjoyed my time watching you. In my heart, a legend is stepping away from the game.’ ”
Gaffney gets $2M
The Pats officially confirmed the signing of wide receiver Jabar Gaffney [stats], who reportedly inked a one-year deal for $2 million.
“Jabar is a good fit for our offense,” coach Bill Belichick said in a statement. “He has been a versatile and dependable player who steps up in whatever role is asked of him.” . . .
The Pats are expected to host Panthers restricted free agent linebacker Adam Seward today in Foxboro, according to a league source.
While Seward has been playing in Carolina’s 4-3 alignment, primarily as a backup, he did play the 3-4 at UNLV.
Read the Patriots Point After blog every day at bostonherald.com.Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1078161

Pats add veteran CB to rebuilt secondary

01:00 AM EST on Friday, March 7, 2008

BY SHALISE MANZA YOUNGJournal Sports Writer

SANDERS
The New England Patriots continued to add to their secondary yesterday, signing veteran cornerback Lewis Sanders.
The team also made official the signing of safety Tank Williams. Williams, who visited Foxboro on Tuesday, received a one-year deal.
Sanders, 29, has played eight seasons in the NFL. He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 2000; the Browns used a fourth-round pick on the 6-foot-1 defensive back from Maryland. Sanders spent four seasons in Cleveland, with 32 tackles and two interceptions in his final season there.
He then spent the next two seasons in Houston before signing with Atlanta before last season. Sanders played in 14 games last season before being placed on injured reserve with a pectoral injury. He recorded 36 tackles; his best game was in Week Four, when he had seven tackles against his former team, the Texans.
Like the other secondary players New England has signed this week, Sanders has an injury history. He has played in 16 games just twice in his career, and has totaled 87 games in eight seasons. He also has value as a special-teams contributor.
smanza@projo.com

Pats reconnect with Gaffney and add depth to secondary

09:12 AM EST on Wednesday, March 5, 2008
By SHALISE MANZA YOUNGJournal Sports Writer

The New England Patriots continued to add players yesterday, signing one familiar face and one not-so-familiar.

Jabar Gaffney stats
Jason Webster stats

Last night, the Pats came to terms with wide receiver Jabar Gaffney on a one-year contract. Earlier in the day, New England announced that it signed cornerback Jason Webster.
Gaffney, signed by the Patriots in October 2006 to help a then-thin receiving corps, has filled a couple of roles with New England. He became Tom Brady’s go-to guy in the playoffs, with 21 catches for 244 yards and two touchdowns. Eighteen of those receptions came in the Pats’ first two playoff games.
Last season, with an influx of talent at the position, Gaffney’s receptions went way down as Brady sought out Randy Moss, Wes Welker and Donte Stallworth. But midway through the season, Gaffney passed the now-departed Stallworth. Twenty-four of his 36 regular-season catches came after the bye week.
And in Week 13, with New England’s undefeated regular season in the balance, Gaffney had his one and only catch — an eight-yard, keep-those-toes-inbounds, game-winning touchdown.
The deal is for one year for a reported $2 million. Gaffney apparently wanted a multiyear deal, but the two sides couldn’t agree to terms on one.
A second-round draft pick of the Texans in 2002 out of Florida, the 6-foot-1 Gaffney is the son of former Jets wideout Derrick Gaffney and a cousin of Eagles corner Lito Sheppard. With former Pat Asante Samuel taking Sheppard’s job in Philadelphia, there have been rumors that Sheppard might be traded to New England.
Speaking of cornerbacks, after parting ways with two veteran corners in the last six days, the signing of Webster brings one back into the fold for New England.
“Jason is an experienced veteran who will add good depth to our secondary,” Pats coach Bill Belichick said in a statement.
Webster, 30, an eight-year veteran, spent nearly all of last season on injured reserve after suffering a broken arm in his one and only game with the Buffalo Bills. Last year’s season-opener was a nightmare start for New England’s AFC East foes. Kevin Everett suffered a life-threatening spinal injury, safety Ko Simpson broke an ankle, linebacker Coy Wire went down with a knee injury and Webster went down as well.
A second-round draft pick of the 49ers in 2000, Webster (5-9, 187 pounds) played at Texas A&M, where he was a teammate of Ty Warren. Webster spent his first four NFL seasons in San Francisco. In 2002 he had his best statistical season, with 85 tackles, one 37-yard interception return for a touchdown and nine passes defensed.
Webster played for the Falcons from 2004-06 before signing a one-year deal with the Bills last May.
smanza@projo.com

Moss sticks with Pats

Receiver cites Brady in inking $27M deal

By Karen Guregian Tuesday, March 4, 2008 http://www.bostonherald.com N.E. Patriots

In the final analysis, it was a marriage that made no sense ending in divorce. The Patriots [team stats] knew it. So did Randy Moss, who turned down a more lucrative offer from the Philadelphia Eagles.
That’s why after an unsettling few days, time spent by Moss looking at the open market, both sides hammered out a deal yesterday that made both sides happy.
For the Pats, they didn’t have to break the bank to keep the man who brought their offense to a different, often other-worldly level. The Pats kept the wide receiver in the fold with a 3-year, $27 million contract - $15 million guaranteed, with a $12 million signing bonus - that made Moss one of the highest paid receivers in the league.
For Moss, he didn’t have to leave the team he’s had the most success with, or the atmosphere he craves, or the quarterback he loves, not to mention surrender another legitimate chance to finally win that elusive championship ring. These elements were so important to him, especially the chance to continue playing alongside Tom Brady [stats], that he left money at the table.
According to a source, the Eagles had spoken with Moss at length yesterday, and also had his ear over the weekend, attempting to lure him to Philadelphia by offering him more money than the Pats. Word out of Philly was the Eagles thought they had Moss signed and sealed, that they secured the two best free agents on the market, with Moss joining Asante Samuel [stats], who already bolted for six years at $57 million with $20 million guaranteed. The Eagles didn’t think Moss could possibly turn them down.
Only Moss walked away.
When he told the Eagles no thanks, he brought up Brady as the primary reason he was rejoining the Pats. That bond, that union with Brady, is what kept Moss a Patriot.
That news provides the best indication that Moss wasn’t merely delivering lip service last season when he took a paycut following his draft day trade from Oakland in hopes of winning a championship. He’s more than backed up what he said, once again taking less money.
Moss achieved a comfort level with the Patriots and Brady, and didn’t want to leave. He saw what was out there, what was offered and decided he had it best right where he was last season.
The Pats nearly pulled off a perfect season, coming up one game short, losing in the Super Bowl. Moss wants more of the same, but with a different ending.
“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,” Moss wrote yesterday on his Web site. “I’m ready to get back. We have some unfinished business to take care of.”
The 31-year-old, who set the NFL single-season record with 23 touchdown receptions while catching 98 passes for 1,493 yards, talked about how well he was received by teammates, and how well he fit into the program.
Tim DiPiero, the agent for Moss, detailed both the contract numbers and what his client turned down last night.
“Randy was serious about wanting to stay,” DiPiero wrote in an e-mail. “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.”
By the sound of it, the players are also glad to have him back.
“It’s good news. We welcome him with open arms,” defensive end Ty Warren [stats] said. “He definitely added a different feature to our offense this season. He was a deep threat. He required double teams. He kept us off the field.”
When told of Moss’ leaving a better offer behind to stay with the Patriots, Warren didn’t sound surprised.
“Randy’s a smart guy. He’s been around,” Warren said. “He’s been on both sides of the spectrum, as one of the most loved guys and one of the most hated guys in the league. He knows what he has in that offense, what he has in the Patriots, what he has in the locker room. When you’ve got a good thing, you keep it.”
Patriots coach Bill Belichick offered his thoughts in a press release.
“What Randy did for our team last year was outstanding,” Belichick said. “He is one of our most consistent, competitive and team-oriented players and it is undoubtedly a relationship we are excited to continue.”
Moss stated he’d like to retire a Patriot. He’ll be 34 when the contract expires. Judging by how this deal went down, if Brady is still throwing footballs in Foxboro then, Moss will want to catch them.Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1077608

Aiken deal adds to depth chart

By Karen Guregian / Patriots Notebook Tuesday, March 4, 2008 http://www.bostonherald.com N.E. Patriots

The Patriots [team stats] added some depth to the special teams and receiving corps with the addition of free agent Sam Aiken yesterday.
The 6-foot-2, 215-pounder, who spent five seasons with the Buffalo Bills, was signed to a two-year deal that could be worth $2 million.
Aiken is more noted for his special teams play than his contributions on offense. He had just 19 career receptions with the Bills but made 61 special teams tackles in 64 games.
The Pats hosted the 29-year-old and locked him up on the same day.
“Competing against Sam many times over the years, we know firsthand what he brings to us,” coach Bill Belichick said in a statement. “We’re glad he’s a Patriot.”
Aiken had planned on visiting the New York Jets [team stats] for the next stop on his free agent tour.
“I think a lot of players are intrigued by the (Patriots) organization,” said Alvin Keels, who represents Aiken. “They have a winning tradition, and with veteran players, that ranks high on their list.”
Keels believes that while Aiken will provide quality special teams play, he’ll also compete for the fourth or fifth receiver’s slot.
“He’s extremely excited about the opportunity,” Keels said.
Webster visits
Another of the Bills’ free agents, cornerback Jason Webster, flew into town last night and will meet with the Pats this morning, agent Vann McElroy indicated. Webster also has a visit lined up with the New York Giants, and the Bills are expected to make a run at retaining his services.
According to McElroy, the Pats made the initial move by contacting Webster, who could fill one of the vacancies created by the free agent departures of Asante Samuel [stats] (Philadelphia) and Randall Gay (New Orleans).
“I think he fits the type of player they’re looking for, what they want in a corner,” McElroy said. “He has speed, quickness, and he’s a tough guy.”
Webster’s career has been hampered by injury. The latest problem came when he broke his forearm in the 2007 opener and missed the rest of the season.
By the numbers
Contract information regarding the re-signings of linebacker Tedy Bruschi [stats] and receiver/special teams ace Kelley Washington became available.
Bruschi’s deal is for two years. His base salary for 2008 will be $1 million and the number jumps to $1.9 million for 2009. He also received a $1.2 million signing bonus.
As for Washington, he also signed a two-year deal. The 2008 base salary will come in at $605,000. For 2009, he would receive a base of $800,000.Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1077611

Bruschi ready to come back / Washington stays

By Karen Guregian / Patriots Notebook Friday, February 29, 2008 http://www.bostonherald.com N.E. Patriots

Tedy Bruschi has not only decided not to retire, he is going to be paid to play beyond next season, if he so chooses.
According to a league source, Bruschi and the team agreed to terms on a multiyear contract yesterday. The linebacker, who turns 35 in June, started all 16 regular-season games and all three playoff games last season.
When the Patriots [team stats] failed to lure free agent middle linebacker Zach Thomas to town, then cut outside linebacker Rosevelt Colvin largely because of salary cap reasons, the return of Bruschi became more in focus.
Bruschi, a stroke survivor, was asked a lot during Super Bowl week about being an older player and how he still copes.
“You don’t really compensate. You still go out there and just try to perform the best that you can,” he said in Arizona. “As you get older, experience absolutely (becomes) a factor. Yes, I was maybe faster or quicker when I was younger. I’m not 24 anymore. I mean that was 10 years ago, but did I know as much then? So is it an advantage or disadvantage?
“You’ve got incredible ability but you don’t have experience. You have experience, but you don’t have quickness as you did maybe when you were younger. You go with the positive instead of the negative.”
Washington stays
The Patriots retained wide receiver/special teamer Kelley Washington by agreeing to terms on a new deal, according to a league source. . . .
The way the tally board looks in the secondary, the Patriots are going to have to replace two cornerbacks and a safety, as corner Randall Gay appears to have joined the group heading out of Foxboro.
Like Asante Samuel [stats] and Eugene Wilson, Gay is going to test the free agent market. And, like Samuel and Wilson, it’s doubtful he’ll be back.
While both sides exchanged proposals this week, they weren’t close to working out a deal.
“We were too far apart,” said Albert Elias, who represents Gay. “We just couldn’t get anything done.”
Gay, who played four seasons with the Pats, has had some injury trouble, which he overcame this season. He played a full slate of games and also toughed out a painful hyperextended elbow in the Super Bowl.
Even though he was essentially the third corner behind Samuel and Ellis Hobbs [stats], there will be a market for him, considering the lack of top-shelf free agent cornerbacks available, as well as the fact he’s coming from a winning system.
Elias believes he can garner more than what the Pats offered on the open market. One potential suitor could be the New York Jets [team stats], given coach Eric Mangini’s familiarity with Gay, as well as the player’s knowledge of the system.
“You never say never, but I don’t know,” Elias said when asked if the door remained open with the Pats. “They gave Randall his start. We’re going to keep the lines of communication open.”
Seau recovering
Pats linebacker Junior Seau told the Associated Press he had surgery to repair a damaged rotator cuff shortly after the Super Bowl. He indicated he had injured the shoulder during the fourth game of the season and played through the pain all year.
“There’s no grace time there,” he said. “I was caught in the wrong position. I just fell on it awkwardly. I felt it and it didn’t recover. So I had to deal with it. Every player has an injury during the course of the year. In order to get through it, you have to persevere.
“No. 1, you have to make sure you’re not a liability. Obviously, that was not the case.”
Seau, 39, did not tip his hand on whether he intends to retire.
“I have a choice of playing or a choice of surfing. Those are good choices to have,” he said.
Aggressive plan
Jonathan Kraft, speaking yesterday at the Massachusetts Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism at the Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston, vowed the Pats won’t be content to sit back. The club president believes his team, through free agency and the draft, will reload for next season.
“We’re very aggressive and focused on next year,” Kraft said. “Never in the modern history of the NFL has a Super Bowl-contending team had a draft pick in the top 10. Certainly in the salary cap era that’s never happened, and draft picks are so valuable. We have the seventh pick in the draft, and I guarantee you whatever we end up doing with that pick, whether it’s taking a player or trading or a multitude or things, we will get a lot of value out of it, unlike most Super Bowl teams in this modern era who have put themselves in salary cap jail. There are only 10 teams in the league who have more cap room. We have almost $22 million in cap space going into next year.
“Between our draft position and our cap base, we’re in strong position to be able to make the moves that we think are necessary to put ourselves back in the position to compete for a championship again in ’08, because I tell you, until we get the next Super Bowl championship, there is going to be a very, very strong hunger in our building down in Foxboro.”
Wright move
The Pats put a second-round tender on restricted free agent Mike Wright, who is the team’s backup to Vince Wilfork [stats] at nose tackle. The tender is worth $1.41 million. Any team that signs the defensive lineman to an offer sheet would have to give up a second-round draft choice, if the Pats don’t match. . . .
Paul Sheehy, the agent for long snapper Lonie Paxton, indicated he was working late yesterday in hopes of hammering out deals with the Pats.Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1076785

Samuel leaves Patriots for Eagles

By Christopher L. Gasper
Globe Staff / March 1, 2008

Asante Samuel has a tattoo that reads "Get Rich To This," and that's exactly what the free agent cornerback did yesterday, leaving the Patriots to sign a six-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles.
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Samuel, the NFL leader in interceptions over the last two seasons with 16, proved he's opportunistic both on and off the field, cashing in on the first day of free agency and getting the lucrative contract - $57 million with $20 million guaranteed, according to the Associated Press - that eluded him last year after the Patriots slapped the franchise tag on him.
The Eagles pounced, not giving other teams an opportunity to host Samuel on a visit. He was whisked to Philadelphia on a private jet at 9 a.m. yesterday, picked up in a limousine, and signed, sealed, and delivered before dinner time.
"This is my first time being a free agent. They say that your first visit they normally don't let you leave. That's what ended up happening and it's a great situation," said Samuel.
"When you come to one that makes you happy, why wait around?"
Samuel said four other teams were on his list, but wouldn't directly answer a question as to whether the Patriots made him an offer. It seemed clear that the Patriots were not really in the mix to re-sign Samuel, who sought a big payday last offseason but was slapped with the franchise tag.
"New England has a philosophy that's right for them. New England groomed a masterpiece and put it on the market," said Alonzo Shavers, Samuel's agent.
Samuel never blinked in his showdown with the Patriots after being franchised, refusing to sign his $7.79 million tender until the team amended it with provisions that he couldn't be franchised again if he played 60 percent of the defensive snaps or the Patriots won 12 games. He missed a month of training camp before reporting Aug. 27 and wasn't officially in the fold until the next day, when the Patriots included the franchise outs in his contract.
It was a shrewd move on Samuel's part, as the Patriots went 16-0 during the regular season.
That's not to say that Samuel, who joined the Patriots as a fourth-round pick out of Central Florida in 2003, didn't earn the opportunity to bolster his bank account.
Samuel leaves New England ranked 10th on the team's all-time interceptions list (regular season only) with 22 - matching his jersey number - in 75 games.
The dreadlocked defensive back proved that his 2006 season, in which seven of his NFL-leading 10 interceptions came in the final six regular-season games, wasn't a fluke. Despite not having the benefit of playing in a preseason game, Samuel finished with a team-high six interceptions and 18 passes defended in 2007 and was selected to his first Pro Bowl.
"Just going out and working hard every day, being a fourth-rounder, you're not going to be given anything in this league," said Samuel. "I just worked my way up and kept working hard and I'm finally getting the respect that I deserve."
Respect Samuel may have felt he wasn't getting in New England. When he was asked yesterday if he felt underappreciated with the Patriots, Samuel's answer was brief but revealing. "No comment," he said.
He won't have that problem in Philadelphia. Coach Andy Reid announced Samuel will be the Eagles' starting left corner in 2008, basically brushing aside two-time Pro Bowl selection Lito Sheppard, who held that position last season and is now trade bait. Sheppard is purportedly on the Patriots' wish list.
Samuel's best game of the 2007 season came against his new team, as he intercepted two passes in New England's 31-28 win over the Eagles at Gillette Stadium. Samuel scored his only touchdown of the season, intercepting an A.J. Feeley pass on the third play from scrimmage and returning it 40 yards - his sixth career touchdown, including the playoffs - and sealed the game with a fourth-quarter interception of Feeley.
That left quite an impression on turnover-starved Philadelphia. The Eagles generated an NFL-worst 19 takeaways last season and intercepted only 11 passes, tying them with Houston and Pittsburgh for fewest in the league.
The Eagles, who went 8-8 and missed the playoffs last season, are also getting a proven postseason performer in the 27-year-old Samuel, who won two Super Bowl rings with the Patriots and was the starting cornerback when New England beat the Eagles, 24-21, in Super Bowl XXXIX.
His three career postseason interception returns for touchdowns equal Willie Brown's NFL record, and Samuel has picked off five passes in the playoffs during his career, including one in the Patriots' 21-12 AFC Championship game victory over the San Diego Chargers Jan. 20.
That's why it was shocking when Samuel let a potential Super Bowl-sealing interception slip through his hands during the Patriots' stunning 17-14 upset loss to the New York Giants Feb. 3.
"We didn't get it done, the Giants did," said Samuel. "It is what it is. Life goes on. I'm an Eagle now, and hopefully we can get to a championship."
Globe correspondent Jon Marks contributed to this report from Philadelphia; Christopher L. Gasper can be reached at cgasper@globe.com.

Law on their side again?

Former Patriot would welcome homecoming

By Mike Reiss
Globe Staff / March 2, 2008

Not long after the plane had touched down in Kansas City two years ago, Ty Law's phone rang and a familiar voice was on the other end. It was Bill Belichick.

Law was en route to Chiefs headquarters to sign a five-year, $30 million contract that he felt reflected his value as a top free agent cornerback. The Patriots coach wanted to know if it was too late for him to consider a return to New England.
"I was so close to just walking and turning around, but at that point, I just felt I couldn't turn back," Law said. "I had just gotten off the plane, so what was I going to say to them in Kansas City? I had given them my word."
If anything, the conversation reflected how the Patriots still had a hold on Law's heart. It also let him know bygones were bygones with his former coach, whom he had called a liar on his way out of town - a comment he later said he regretted making.
So now, after two largely unfulfilling seasons in Kansas City, Law is wondering whether Belichick and vice president of player personnel Scott Pioli will be hitting redial. A reunion would seem to make sense; the Chiefs have told Law he will be released and the Patriots are seeking cornerback help.
"No matter what, I'll always be a part of New England, the Patriots, and they'll always be a part of me," Law said. "I think the fans feel the same way. We both had ups and downs, but we shared more success than anything. If it could happen again, it would be like things coming full circle. We're both still standing."
Law was in town last week after taking part in an NFL-sponsored program at Harvard Business School, and his presence at a Celtics game Wednesday night fueled speculation that a return to New England may be imminent. But because the Chiefs have yet to officially release him, Law is not free to speak with interested clubs.
At this point in his career, Law's priorities might be slightly different. While it's hard to imagine he would accept a hometown discount - that's never been his way, and he still feels he's a starting cornerback - he appears more willing to be flexible with a contender if things are close.
He'll also look closely at the style of a team's defense, as he believes his skills weren't maximized the last two seasons.
"I thought the opportunity was a great one at the time, but to be honest, it wasn't the best playing experience for me by any means," he said. "I feel that if you put me in a situation that takes advantage of my skills, I could be in Hawaii [at the Pro Bowl] the next three years. But you have to be in the right scheme of things to showcase your talent."
That's why if the Patriots ultimately express interest, and a financial offer is competitive, Law would be thrilled with the idea of finishing his career where he began it as a first-round draft choice in 1995.
"I like to move around [on defense], and that was the one thing about New England, we didn't stay still, we were moving around," Law explained. "The quarterback didn't know what we were doing.
"I might be 10 yards off but playing a two-deep zone. I might be up in your face but not necessarily playing man-to-man; I might be covering the deep part of the field.
"Belichick always gave us that freedom, saying, 'OK, you got it until you mess it up. Once you mess it up, it's back to my way.' At least he gave you that leeway until you screwed it up."
Law didn't feel he had that luxury in Kansas City, where he most often lined up on the left side while Patrick Surtain was on the right. He felt the defense performed better when he and Surtain were matching up against specific receivers.
While Law didn't miss a game with the Chiefs and totaled six interceptions, some observers wondered whether he could still compete at a high level. Always confident in his abilities, Law dismissed that thought, while seemingly agreeing that New England would be a good place to prove those critics wrong.
"I know I'm still a starting cornerback in this game," he shot back. "I'm going to be on the field and I'm going to make plays, given the opportunity. I think I proved that, even at Kansas City, when the opportunities were few and far in between, if I get my hands on that ball, I'm catching it.
"The opportunity to come back to New England, it would be like a dream come true. People would ask me ,'Don't you wish you were still on New England when they were trying for 19-0 and playing in the Super Bowl,' and the answer is, 'Hell, yeah, everyone wants to be in the Super Bowl.' Everybody wants to play in the big game."
The 2008 season will mark Law's 14th in the NFL, although he points out that at 34, he's a "young" 14-year veteran. Taking a line from Patriots safety Rodney Harrison, Law noted, "It's different now; the 30s are the new 20s.
"I'm kind of free-spirited right now," he said. "You would never think that somebody would be so looking forward to getting fired. This is like getting drafted to me. I have that same enthusiasm.
"I know that I'm going to play football and I can still play. I have that confidence in myself. If I go to the right team, I think I'm going to help them get over the hump and make them a contender. If it is a contender, I'm going to help them be a championship team from leadership and experience and everything else."

At a Moss for answers on Randy’s suitors

By Karen Guregian Monday, March 3, 2008 http://www.bostonherald.com N.E. Patriots

Three days have passed since Randy Moss hit the open market, reportedly seeking to find a better deal than what the Pats already have put on the table.
However, the Pats’ offer appears to be the only one of note that has been extended to him.
A report by the NFL Network’s Adam Schefter intimated the Pats were “close” to re-signing the wide receiver, and had a “standing multi-year offer to make him one of the highest-paid receivers in the NFL.” Schefter essentially made his case based on what he feels about the negotiation, saying, “It’s not that they’re getting close, I think they’ve always been close.”
They’re likely close because Moss hasn’t found a market. He’s found no takers; at least, no one in the media has heard about any.
And how is that possible? Why hasn’t any team made Moss an offer, and if a team has, why hasn’t anyone in the media heard about it?
Is it really possible for the game’s single-season leader in touchdown receptions to secretly visit teams? To go incognito in and out of Dallas? Or Green Bay? Or New York? Or Denver? Or Philadelphia? Or Pittsburgh? Or St. Louis?
One prominent agent has a theory as to why there’s been no buzz about offers or visits involving the high-profile receiver. He suggested “the market is chilled” because the perception is Moss is merely going to use the offer to have the Patriots [team stats] match it.
Why get involved if you know Moss is going to end up with the Pats no matter what?
Teams don’t want to be used in that fashion; that’s why there hasn’t been what’s known as “popcorn bidding,” where Moss gets to work all the teams against each other to push up the bids.
The feeling is, the negotiations are still ongoing with the Patriots. He’s trying to find a better deal so he can get a better one with the Pats. That’s the bottom line.
“If he wants offers, he’s got to convince someone they’re not being used,” the agent said.
The only other Moss news had John Clayton of ESPN reporting the wide receiver placed a call to Daunte Culpepper, his former quarterback in Minnesota, to discuss the possibility of the two of them finishing their careers together somewhere.
Culpepper is also a free agent, although the notion of them going as a package somewhere seems far-fetched.Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1077348

Stallworth makes jump to Cleveland

By John Tomase / NFL Roundup Sunday, March 2, 2008 http://www.bostonherald.com N.E. Patriots

Former Patriots [team stats] wide receiver Donte’ Stallworth, set free last week before $8 million in bonuses came due, signed a seven-year contract with the Cleveland Browns. Financial terms weren’t disclosed.
In his lone season with the Pats, Stallworth caught 46 passes for 697 yards and three touchdowns. His production flagged down the stretch, however, and he was eventually passed on the depth chart by fellow free agent Jabar Gaffney [stats].
The Browns are intimately familiar with what Stallworth can do when on his game. He caught a 34-yard touchdown against them in the Patriots’ 34-17 victory on Oct. 7, breaking a number of tackles along the way.
Stallworth gives newly re-signed quarterback Derek Anderson an outside threat opposite Braylon Edwards, and figures to see more passes in Cleveland than he did in New England, where the bulk of the action went to Randy Moss and Wes Welker.
The Browns also made a trade, sending cornerback Leigh Bodden and a third-round draft pick to the Detroit Lions for defensive tackle Shaun Rogers.
The Jets and Pro Bowl left guard Alan Faneca have agreed to terms on a five-year, $40 million contract, making the former Steeler the highest-paid offensive lineman in the league.
The Dolphins signed former Giants linebacker Reggie Torbor to a four-year deal. They also signed linebacker Charlie Anderson, defensive tackle Randy Starks and guard Justin Smiley.
Linebacker Lance Briggs has re-signed with the Chicago Bears, agreeing to a six-year deal. The Chicago Sun-Times and Chicago Tribune both reported that Briggs would receive $36 million.
The Bills acquired Pro Bowl defensive tackle Marcus Stroud in a trade with Jacksonville for undisclosed draft picks.
Buffalo also signed former Minnesota defensive tackle Spencer Johnson to a five-year contract, and the Jaguars signed cornerback Drayton Florence.
The Eagles signed defensive end Chris Clemons to a five-year deal.
The 49ers signed defensive end Justin Smith. The ex-Bengal reportedly inked a six-year deal worth $45 million.
The Vikings reached an agreement on a six-year contract with wide receiver Bernard Berrian.
The Rams signed kicker Josh Brown to a five-year, $14.2 million contract.
Pro Bowl safety John Lynch took a pay cut to remain with the Broncos.
The Falcons signed defensive backs Erik Coleman and Von Hutchins.
Ex-Cowboys cornerback Jacques Reeves signed with the Texans.
The Saints re-signed receiver Devery Henderson and terminated linebacker Brian Simmons’ contract.
Tight end John Gilmore and defensive end Jimmy Wilkerson signed with the Buccaneers.
The Panthers agreed to terms with cornerback and kick returner Ricardo Colclough on a two-year, $4 million deal.Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1077177

Gay inks deal with Saints and gets closer to home

09:55 AM EST on Monday, March 3, 2008
By SHALISE MANZA YOUNGJournal Sports Writer

As much as he wanted to stay with the New England Patriots, the team that gave him a chance to play and the region he came to adopt, when Randall Gay got the chance to go back home, he went for it.
Yesterday, the cornerback signed with the New Orleans Saints, who play about 90 miles from Gay’s hometown of Brusly, La.
Gay received a four-year deal from the Saints that could be worth as much as $17.8 million — $6.9 million of that is guaranteed.
“It’s bittersweet,” agent Albert Elias said last night. “He’s leaving a team that helped him get his shot, that helped him get started. So he’s sad one way, but in the other way, he’s going to the team he watched growing up as a kid.”
When negotiations with the Patriots stalled and Gay and Elias decided to test free agency, Gay stressed to Elias that he wanted to keep New England in play, keeping the relationship positive on the off-chance that Gay could rejoin the team down the road.
“It was business, and that’s part of the NFL. He’ll miss New England, definitely, but the Saints gave him financial security and the chance to compete for a starting spot,” Elias said. “No matter what, he has a role there.”
The small town of Brusly — population 2,020 and 2.2 square miles — is quite proud of their native son. Gay has been honored by the town on at least two occasions: before playing with the LSU Tigers in the 2004 Sugar Bowl, he had his own day, and after his rookie season, when he won Super Bowl XXXIX with New England, he was given a key to the town.

Don’t tick off MossNot tagging mercurial WR was the safe play for Pats

By Karen Guregian Sunday, February 24, 2008 http://www.bostonherald.com N.E. Patriots

INDIANAPOLIS - With a couple of days to digest that the Patriots [team stats] did not franchise Randy Moss, leaving him available to all suitors come Friday, more theories are floating around as to Bill Belichick and Scott Pioli’s possible motives.
Why would they leave Moss exposed, even if they have a deal in place or are nearing one?
A popular view is this: They simply didn’t want to tick him off.
While you’d franchise just about anyone else in this situation, Moss is a different animal. He’s a 10-year veteran. He’s already earned a ton of money in his career. He’s also proved to be somewhat temperamental.
The Patriots handled him perfectly this season, knew which buttons to push and which ones to avoid.
Why flip on the anger switch now? Why risk ruining a good thing?
It’s no secret that players don’t like being tagged at any time, even if it’s with the intention of working toward a long-term deal.
Of course, had the Pats assigned the franchise designation to Moss, they would have secured valuable protection against having some team whisper in his ear about a deal that would trump what Belichick and Pioli have in mind.
Technically, they can’t sign Moss until Friday when free agency officially opens. It appears the Pats are counting on having an unruffled Moss either make good on a deal they have in place or continue to hash out a deal that’s in progress.
Sirius NFL Radio host Solomon Wilcots thinks that scenario makes sense.
“I can see them not wanting to give him the impression that they plan to keep his rights without giving him a long-term deal,” Wilcots said yesterday at the NFL combine. “I think there are certain considerations per Randy Moss, understanding that he’s a prolific player. Players of his caliber who make a huge impact, it does matter in terms of how you make that player feel. There’s no doubt they’ve tried to help him feel comfortable becoming a Patriot in terms of how they do things. I think they’ve gone the extra mile, there’s no doubt about that.
“I can see where it’s plausible where you don’t want to put the tag on him. So I think they’re either going to extend him to a long-term deal, make him happy there or make him happy by allowing him to go on the market.”
Moss’ teammates can’t fathom losing him. A week after the Super Bowl, Rodney Harrison [stats], who was at an autograph signing, made bringing Moss back sound like a no-brainer.
“If you have any type of common sense or sanity, you’d want Randy Moss to come back. He’s a tremendous player, a great teammate,” Harrison said. “He played unselfish. He made plays and he worked extremely hard to improve his image and be one of the leaders in the locker room. You always want good people around you.”
Still, the Pats are running a risk if Moss arrives on Friday without a deal in place and hits the open market.
“To me, if he hits the market, the cement is dry. I don’t think you can put the genie back in the bottle at that point. The money is going to be out there,” Wilcots said. “There are so many teams that are going to have significant money under the (salary) cap, so there will be a huge market for Randy Moss.”
But is allowing Moss to hit the open market a bigger risk than placing the franchise tag on him? How would he have reacted to playing under a one-year deal for $7.85 million had a long-term agreement not been reached? Would Moss continue to be a model citizen?
The Pats perhaps weren’t willing to find out.
“I’ve just got to believe they have an understanding,” Wilcots said. “I’ve got to believe with the season he had, with what he did for that offense, they want to keep him around and keep Tom Brady [stats] happy by keeping the best weapon he’s had in his career to throw to.
“We saw that offense go to another level (with Moss). Sometimes it was unstoppable. It makes no sense to take the biggest part of that equation out of the offense.”Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1075608

Faulk is charged with marijuana possession in La.

08:09 AM EST on Wednesday, February 27, 2008
By SHALISE MANZA YOUNGJournal Sports Writer
Running back Kevin Faulk was reportedly cited for misdemeanor marijuana possession Friday at a concert in his home state of Louisiana.
Related links
Kevin Faulk stats
In news first reported by TV station KATC, Faulk was entering the Cajundome in Lafayette, La., with friends for a performance by rap artist Lil’ Wayne and was checked by security. Four marijuana-filled cigars were found on him.
Lafayette police Capt. John Babin, of the Metro Narcotics Task Force, told the Boston Globe yesterday that Faulk was not taken into custody; he was issued a citation and agreed to appear in court. Babin said Faulk was very cooperative.
The 31-year-old back served as a team captain last season.

Pats swing into offseason, cut ColvinLinebacker corps needs fix

By Karen Guregian Wednesday, February 27, 2008 http://www.bostonherald.com N.E. Patriots
Photo by Matthew West (File)
The Patriots [team stats] began making moves yesterday that could very well steer the course of their offseason, and set the stage for some revamping of their defense, as they released veteran linebacker Rosevelt Colvin.
Also getting the boot was linebacker Oscar Lua, the USC prospect who didn’t play a down last season after winding up on injured reserve after hurting a knee in the preseason.
Colvin was a mainstay on defense since being the team’s big ticket free agent acquisition in 2003. While the primary reason for the move was the fact the 31-year-old linebacker was due $7.6 million against the salary cap, a league source indicated yesterday there was more to it than creating cap space.
Contributing to the decision were concerns over Colvin’s health. According to the source, both the foot injury Colvin suffered Nov. 25 against the Eagles, as well as the hip injury he sustained in 2003, which resulted in surgery, were still troublesome enough not to commit that sum of money to the linebacker.
Kennard McGuire, who represents Colvin, did not return phone calls seeking comment. While Colvin’s cap number was $7.6 million, his base salary was $5.5 million, the amount now available for signing free agents.
While there’s a chance the sides could still reach an accord on a smaller deal should Colvin not receive something to his liking on the open market, the assumption is the ties have been cut.
How will that impact the linebacking corps?
When Colvin went down with the broken foot, Adalius Thomas was moved to the outside in the 3-4 defense. That looks like a more permanent move for Thomas, who while up and down during the season, was one of the best players in the Super Bowl.
So Thomas and Mike Vrabel would once again be on the edges.
The inside, however, remains a question mark as both Tedy Bruschi [stats] and Junior Seau are free agents. Both are also pondering retirement.
Bruschi’s decision is imminent. He is expected to make his intentions known before Friday’s free agency period begins.
The prevailing opinion is that he will return. Same with Seau.
As for the depth, and strengthening an aging corp, that’s where the Pats might have to make some moves either through free agency or the draft.
Pierre Woods, who might now be best remembered for not securing a fumble in the Super Bowl, could be given more of a chance on the outside while Eric Alexander might see more time on the inside.
But it would seem the Pats might have to go shopping. Who’s available? Who fits the profile?
A couple names come to mind, most notably 31-year-old former Steelers linebacker Clark Haggans, who became expendable with the emergence of rookie Lamarr Woodley, or perhaps former Cardinals linebacker Calvin Pace.
Haggans played his entire career in a 3-4 defense. The 6-foot-4, 243-pounder had 58 tackles and four sacks last season. He registered nine sacks in 2005, the Steelers’ Super Bowl season.
Pace, at 6-4, 272 pounds, has most of the physical attributes the Pats look for in the middle of their 3-4 defense. The 27-year-old, however, was a defensive end/outside linebacker for the Cardinals, playing on the strong side of Arizona’s 4-3 defense. He could be a fit on the outside as well. Pace is coming off a career season (98 tackles, 6.5 sacks).
In the draft, where the Pats hold the seventh pick, there’s Ohio State’s Vernon Gholston, who many have compared favorably with Vrabel as he can play both defensive end and linebacker.
Lua played inside linebacker, and had a few years left on his pact, but the team apparently wasn’t sold enough on what he had to offer, post-injury.
“I spoke with Coach (Bill) Belichick and Scott Pioli. They’re just doing what they have to do. My being on their roster is not in their best interest,” said Lua, who indicated he was in the fifth month of a seven-month rehabilitation from knee surgery. “They said it would be in my best interest to move on. They didn’t think the best opportunity for me would be there.”
At the moment, the only linebackers the Pats have under contract are Alexander (exclusive rights free agent), Larry Izzo [stats] (reached verbal agreement for one-year deal, according to agent Drew Rosenhaus), T.J. Slaughter, Woods (exclusive rights free agent), Vrabel and Thomas.
Pats notes
Paul Sheehy, who represents long snapper and soon-to-be free agent Lonie Paxton, indicated the sides were working toward a deal.
“I’m optimistic we’ll get it done,” Sheehy said. “Unfortunately, I don’t have a crystal ball. If a deal is to be done, it’ll get done. We’ll see. Lonie loves everything about the Patriots and New England. If we can get it done there, we’re going to do it.” . . .
There’s nothing to report with cornerback Randall Gay except the sides are still talking.
Same with Kelley Washington, whose $4 million option won’t be picked up, making him a free agent. Chad Speck, who represents Washington, indicated earlier he and Pats vice president of player personnel Scott Pioli were working toward a new deal for the wide receiver/special teams ace.Article URL: http://www.bostonherald.com/sports/football/patriots/view.bg?articleid=1076277

SPYGATE II STILL LURKING

Posted by Mike Florio on February 26, 2008, 11:21 a.m.
It’s been a couple of days since there have been any new statements or developments relevant to the Spygate II drama, but the story isn’t going away. As Peter King pointed out in his MMQB column, the story will linger until Matt Walsh talks.

But one of the wrinkles in all of this that has been virtually ignored by the “real” media is that there’s a clear dispute over a key credibility point in this matter.

Walsh initially told the New York Times that a confidentiality agreement signed by Walsh prevented him from getting into any of the details. Recently, ESPN.com buried in a largely unrelated item a contention from the Pats that there is no such agreement.

Since then, there has been no further comment or examination of this issue. We sent an e-mail to Walsh’s lawyer, Michael Levy, but he has not responded. (He also hasn’t responded to an e-mail from us inquiring regarding the process that led to an assistant golf pro in Hawaii being represented by the head of the White Collar/Investigations and Enforcement group at a high-powered D.C. firm.)

We’d like to think that the folks to whom Levy has fed sound bites will ask these same questions.

If Walsh doesn’t have a confidentiality agreement, nothing prevents him from talking — other than his desire to leverage his willingness to talk into a “get out of jail free” card as to the question of whether he stole property from the team, taped conversations in violation of Massachusetts law, and/or will be defaming the Patriots if he says things that aren’t true to Arlen Specter or 60 Minutes.

Speaking of defamation, King also raises the possibility that the Patriots will sue the Boston Herald for its February 2 item proclaiming that the Patriots taped the Rams’ final walk-through practice prior to Super Bowl XXXVI. That report has triggered the storm that has been raging around the franchise, and directly led to the class-action lawsuit that the team is facing in New Orleans.

Indeed, the lawyer who is handling that case has made it clear that the action will be seriously damaged if it turns out that the walk-through practice wasn’t taped. (You can listen to a radio interview during which the lawyer makes the concession right here.)

The team’s challenge in that regard will be to satisfy the higher standard that applies to defamation claims brought by public figures. Specifically, the Pats would be required to prove that the Herald proceeded with actual malice or that the Herald acted with reckless disregard as to the truth.

Though it might be hard to show malice, the Patriots could get to a Massachusetts jury as to the issue of “reckless disregard.” We can’t clearly recall whether the Herald got a statement from the Pats before running the story (and we’re not inclined to now pay for access to the original Herald story, which is now archived). Our general recollection is the Herald proceeded with only one side of the situation, which is always risk for such an inflammatory story.

Also, there is some scuttlebutt that Walsh, who is believed to have been the source for the Herald story, has since backed off the contention that the practice was actually videotaped.

It’s another reason, as we see it, for the Patriots to want to know what Walsh knows, and to get whatever tapes or other materials that he has. If there wasn’t cheating at Super Bowl XXXVI, the Pats should have nothing to fear.

SAMUEL INTERESTED IN TAMPA

Posted by Mike Florio on February 26, 2008, 9:46 a.m.
In a move that might be a sign that the market for cornerback Asante Samuel might not be what he hopes it will be, his agent is openly politicking for the Bucs to show interest.
“Tampa Bay is a situation that makes sense,” said Alonzo Shavers, according to the Tampa Tribune. “Tampa Bay is definitely worth considering. It was an organization that was in the Super Bowl not too long ago. It is an organization Asante wants to play for. It’s definitely something that makes perfect sense for everybody.”
Okay, that part isn’t all that bad. But Shavers should have stopped there.
He didn’t.
“We’re not having a large pool of teams to choose from,” Shavers said. “Not everybody will need him or want to pay that kind of money. It’s going to be a select group and Tampa Bay is high on our short list.”
First of all, how does Shavers know how big or small the pool is or might be? The obvious answer is tampering.
Second, why does Shavers think that the Bucs will pay Samuel big money? The Tampa Two defensive system doesn’t rely on high-end cornerbacks with strong downfield coverage skills. So there’s no reason for the Bucs to be interested in Samuel if the price tag will be north of Nate Clements’ seven-year, $64 million contract with the 49ers.
The primary scuttlebutt in league circles is that the Saints and the Eagles are the teams to watch in the Samuel sweepstakes.

Safety could be a safe option for Pats

2/24/08

Sun. notes By Erik Scalavino, Patriots.com & PFW Staff Writer

Lots of questions hover over the Pats’ defensive secondary, so drafting a safety in this April’s Draft seems like a safe bet. And several of the top prospects have strong New England connections.

INDIANAPOLIS – The development of James Sanders was one of the brighter spots in New England’s defensive secondary this past season – what with Rodney Harrison serving a suspension to start the year and Eugene Wilson either hurt or inactive for much of it.

With questions abounding at the cornerback position as well, the need for versatile players who can play either on the edge or in the middle of the field seems to be a growing need for the Patriots.

In this year’s NFL Draft, there are a number of talented players at free and strong safety, and nearly every one of the top prospects has spoken at some point with the Patriots (players listed alphabetically).


Free Safeties

Simeon Castille (6-0, 195) Alabama
Castille played mostly corner and nickel in Tuscaloosa, but he feels he’s willing and he’ll be able to make the switch to safety in the NFL.

“I think being able to play the nickel and the corner has helped me a lot, and being able to move outside and play inside, just being willing to play safety, and just having the athleticism to play both, I think helps me a lot,” he said Sunday.

“I think it’s going to help me a lot, being able to play corner, nickel, and safety,” he added. New England always puts an emphasis on its players being versatile, which may be why they’re attracted to Castille.

“I’ve been interviewed by a lot of teams, and the Patriots have been a team that I’ve had interviews with,” he revealed. “So, they’re being one of the top teams in the NFL every year, it’s definitely an honor for them to consider me.”

He also noted that the Patriots defensive secondary could look a lot different in 2008, and that he could see himself being part of it.

“I’ve been trying to look into a little bit of that. Asante Samuel might not be back, and Rodney Harrison is getting into the later years of his career … you know, that would be a great place to play.”

Castille also said playing in an NFL-type system under Alabama head coach Nick Saban, a member of the Bill Belichick coaching tree, will help him adapt to the complex defenses at the next level.


Marcus Griffin (5-10, 201) Texas
A lot of talk this time last year focused on Griffin’s fraternal twin brother, Michael, who many Draftniks thought would be taken by the Patriots in the first round. Maybe they’ll get their chance at the other Griffin this time around.

“Well, at this point, I’d be glad if New England did pick me up,” he declared. “If there’s an opportunity for me to go there and play, I’m going to give it 100 percent.”

Griffin spoke fondly of his friend and former Texas Longhorn teammate, Patriots TE David Thomas.

"I remember that he was a great player and off the field, he was a great dude, like he was on the field. I remember his hard work during practice and off the field. And you can see it led to him having a great career at UT and now at New England.

"I had a chance to see him this year when he came down to UT. Every time we see each other we talk to each other and he gives me a few pointers. And he just told me to stay positive."


Kenny Phillips (6-2, 212) Miami
Phillips is leaving Miami after his junior season, thanks in part to the lessons he learned from former Hurricane and current Patriots DB Brandon Meriweather.

“He was a big factor, especially my freshman year,” Phillips recalled Sunday. “When I first came in, he was the one who taught me the plays, he let me stay with him in the summer so I could go back and forth [to campus]. He really just took me under his wing and taught me everything that I know. I talk to him about every week.”

Being reunited with Meriweather in NE is a possibility that Phillips says he’s considered.

“I would enjoy it. I got used to playing with him. Then his time came to move on the to next level, and if we reunite, that would be great.”

Phillips went on to say that Meriweather gave him some advice when he decided to enter the NFL Draft early.
“[He said] just basically make sure it’s the right decision for you. Don’t do it because of the money situation or anything like that. Just make sure you know in your heart that you made the right decision.”

Phillips hasn’t yet spoken with Patriots scouts, but he has interviews scheduled Sunday night and Monday with a number of clubs. New England could be one of them, he said.


Strong Safeties

Jamar Adams (6-2, 212) Michigan
Many Michigan players say their team is like a family, even when older players graduate or go on to the NFL. So, it’s no surprise that Adams keeps in touch with former Wolverine and now Pats LB Pierre Woods.

“Yeah, Pierre is a great guy,” said Adams. “The best thing about Pierre is he is a genuine guy, a Michigan guy, he always cares about Michigan and the former players. I like to talk to Pierre, see how he is doing, get a feel on how the NFL is treating him. I talk to him maybe once a month.”

What’s the best advice Woods has given Adams?

“Not to worry about where you get drafted [which team and what round],” Adams replied. “If you get your foot in the door, take full advantage of. Be persistent and keep working hard.”

Working hard is a phrase the Patriots like to preach to their players, but after talking with Patriots scouts at the Senior Bowl, there’s something else Adams likes about New England’s approach to football.

“The best thing I like about the Patriots is they talk strategy, and that is what I like to talk about, so that was a good meeting.”


Jamie Silva (5-11, 204) Boston College
Silva, who also returned punts this past season at The Heights, has been working with noted speed coach Tom Shaw down in Florida in preparation for the Combine.

The New England native (he’s from Rhode Island) has followed the Patriots his whole life, and could fit the team’s mold of a seemingly underrated player who finds a way to overachieve.

“I talked to [New England] when I was at the East-West Shrine Game, and had some good conversations,” Silva revealed. “They just told me what they liked about me, and that it’s a long process, and just finish it out.”

It’s crossed his mind that he could continue his football career in New England, with the Pats defensive secondary potentially in a rebuilding mode this year, but he’ll be happy wherever he winds up.

“I feel like I can contribute wherever I go … I’m just hoping one team takes me and gives me an opportunity to be on the field.”

A stellar running back in high school, Silva made the switch to defense in college and has excelled there as well. That versatility and athleticism could be just what the Patriots will be looking for.


Tom Zbikowski (5-11, 211) Notre Dame
Having played at Notre Dame under former Patriots offensive coordinator Charlie Weis, you’d think Zbikowski would be somewhat familiar with New England’s style of play. He is, of course, but maybe more so due to former Pats DB Corwin Brown, who these days is the Irish defensive coordinator.

"I think having coach Brown, coming in, bringing in the 3-4, not too many college teams run a 3-4,” Zbikowski observed Sunday. His strength, he feels, is his toughness, both physical and mental.

"I think [my strengths are] physical toughness and also having a knack for being a playmaker, with fumble recoveries and forced fumbles and interceptions. When you're moving up to the next level, for a defensive back technique is going to be the biggest thing, so you've got to be working on it all the time. No matter how good you think it is, you've always got to improve. You get tight ends and wide receivers running 4.3s, 4.4s, you don't have much room for error."

Which is why Zbikowski understands the importance of film study, something the Patriots stress with their players.

"I think that's one of the things I learned a lot this year, how much film you have to watch to be prepared,” said Zbikowski.
“I just love playing the game. I'd strap it up any time and play. I wasn't really focused on film work until this year – how much you have to learn to be successful."

A playmaker on special teams as well, Zbikowski returned punts for Notre Dame throughout his college career.

“Obviously that's the best way for you coming in to make the ball team, when you can show them you can play on special teams," he noted.

Another key to the Pats success has been their ability not to get too high with the highs or too low with the lows. Zbikowksi, who’s faced his share of criticism at Notre Dame, seems prepared to take that approach in the pros.

"You have to tune it out,” he said of his critics, “because if you listen to everything said about you … I have two left feet and I can't chew gum and walk at the same time, you know? You really can't listen to what they say. You can't really listen to the positives, also, and let it go to your head. You just have to be as focused as you can."


Sunday Combine Notebook

Future Combine Locations
According to Jeff Foster, President of National Football Scouting (a separate organization that runs the NFL Combine and works with 19 other pro clubs with their scouting needs), the next two Combines will be held inside Lukas Oil Stadium, the Colts new home. He said the RCA Dome is scheduled to be demolished, with a new Indiana Convention Center being built on that site. In all likelihood, the Combine will return to Indy in 2011, but at this point, it’s not official. However, Foster added that there are no discussions at this point to move the Combine to another city. He said he’s “hopeful” the Combine will remain in Indy long-term.

Combine Workouts
Not every player at the Combine is taking part in every workout, either by choice (they work out at their Pro Days at school) or because of injury. Rod Marinelli, the Lions head coach, was asked Sunday if those who don’t take part in the drills are at a disadvantage.
“It’s going to happen,” he stated. “Guys may have an injury or wait until they get back to campus. I just look, what are they doing here and evaluate what’s done here. And then if we go to their campus, I’ll evaluate that. But the key thing is still what their film is like.”

Player notes
Castille is the son of former Denver Bronco DB Jeremiah Castille … Free safety Nehemiah Warrick is first cousin to Peter Warrick, the former Cincinnati Bengal … Zbikowski recently shot an Under Armor commercial with former Irish teammate Jeff Samardzija, who’s now a pitcher in the Chicago Cubs organization … Zbikowski also has pro boxing experience, having fought in Madison Square Garden. He pondered which is tougher: training for football or boxing. "They're both tough. It's really hard to say,” he replied. “But leading up to this feels like it is getting ready for a fight. You're training for so long -- seven, eight weeks – for one event [in this case, the Combine]. It's more like a fight than you do when you're getting ready for a football season." … Silva, known for his flowing, light brown mane, joked, “Once every 20 months I shave it off. It’s about that time again.” … Cornerback Leodis McKelvin of Troy, a school with a history of losing seasons, may have had the quote of the Combine when he spoke of his college team in this way: “We always fight to the end. We always lose in the end.”

Corner market has wide variety of prospects

2/24/08

By Andy Hart, Patriots Football Weekly

With free agent cornerback Asante Samuel’s future in New England very much in doubt, the Patriots could look to April’s draft to add both top-end talent and overall depth to the secondary.

INDIANAPOLIS – There isn’t exactly a set formula for teams looking for a top-flight NFL cornerback. Over the last decade-plus the Patriots had the good fortune of drafting two guys – Ty Law in 1995 and Asante Samuel in 2003 – that developed into All-Pro players. And while Law was a first-round selection with relatively high expectations, Samuel was a fourth-round pick who progressively evolved into one of the elite corners in the game while leading the NFL in interceptions over the last two seasons.

But Law’s career in New England ended after the 2004 season due to contract issues and Samuel is set to hit the free agent market later this week. After playing last season under New England’s franchise tag, and clearly reaffirming his status as one of the league’s elite corners, Samuel’s value on the open market could very well price him out of New England. As it stands, Sports Illustrated’s Peter King told Patriots Today’s Brian Lowe a the Combine that there is virtually no chance Samuel will be returning to the team where he’s played his first five NFL seasons.

Throw in the fact that New England’s nickel corner Randall Gay is also a free agent while No. 2 corner Ellis Hobbs failed to develop into a consistent player in his third season and the Patriots clearly head into April’s draft with an eye on the cornerback position, possibly looking for both top-end talent as well as to add overall depth to the secondary.

The 2008 draft holds a deep crop at cornerback. According to NFLDraftScout.com’s pre-Combine rankings more than 30 corners could go in the seven rounds of draft weekend, including as many as five in the first round and possibly 13 or more on the first day.

The top five prospects, all with a chance to go in the first-round, are South Florida’s Mike Jenkins (6-0, 200), Troy’s Leodis McKelvin (5-10, 190), Tennessee State’s Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (6-2, 184), Arizona’s Antoine Cason (6-0, 191) and Kansas’ Aqib Talib (6-0, 202). The mix between big-school corners and playmakers from a lesser level of competition leaves the exact order of their draft value a bit up in the air.

Talib is one of the elite big corners available. He said he met with the Patriots on Saturday night at the Combine and that the meeting went well.

“It was just a good conversation,” said Talib, who is a Cowboys fan and idolizes Deion Sanders. “A couple of the coaches were in there. When I left, I thought it went pretty good. We talked about football stuff, history, family, background. We talked about a lot of stuff.”

Does Talib -- who depending on who you talk to could go from anywhere in the top-10 to late in the first round -- think he’d fit in New England?

“Yeah. I feel like I’d be a pretty good fit wherever I get picked up at,” Talib said with confidence before listing his strengths as ball skills, man coverage and tackling.

Cason is a polished senior who won the Jim Thorpe Award as the best corner in the country last season while earning consensus All-American honors. Questions have arisen about his speed and he could have a lot riding on his 40 time when he runs for scouts on Tuesday in Indy. Regardless of what he runs, Cason is comfortable with his football abilities.

“People are going to think that (about his slow 40 time),” Cason said. “But as long as it’s nothing playing related, that’s what I feel confident about that no one has questioned how I play, if I can make plays or what I can do on the football field. So if that’s the question of speed, that’s OK with me. I’ll go run Tuesday and we’ll see.

“I’m a competitor. I’m ready to prove myself every time I step out on a national platform or just playing anything. I’m ready to prove myself again.”

More than a polished player, Cason is praised for his overall makeup. He started a charity called “Cason Cares” to raise money for the American Cancer Society by selling bracelets after losing his grandfather and role model, Royce Rambo, to a form of leukemia. After getting past NCAA hurdles to the charitable endeavor he raised more than $7,500 and was wearing one of the bracelets at the podium while speaking with the media at the Combine.

“Antoine Cason is just one of the most amazing young men I’ve ever been around,” Arizona athletic director Jim Livengood told the Arizona Daily Wildcat. “He’s not just a gifted athlete, he’s a very good student and a terrific young man. He’s got great principles and values and he’s just the kind of student-athlete that any coach in any sport would be so very proud of.”

Rodgers-Cromartie has come out of nowhere in the draft process almost the way his cousin, San Diego Pro Bowler Antonio Cromartie, exploded in the NFL circles last season. The Tennessee State playmaker moved around to four different high schools and didn’t get on the football field until his senior year. Tennessee State was then the only school to recruit him and offer a scholarship. But he’s made plays since his first day at the school and really put himself on the NFL radar with a big Senior Bowl week.

But he knows he still has to continue to impress league decision makers if he’s going to be one of the top corners taken.

“Ever since I’ve performed at the Senior Bowl, had a good week and an OK game, now people are starting to recognize and I’m starting to get more attention,” said Rodgers-Cromartie, who credits a personal workout with new Redskins Hall of Fame cornerback Darrell Green with helping him take his game to the next level. “I feel like I have to go three out of three – the Senior Bowl, here and then at my Pro Day … if I’m going to have the opportunity to go high in the draft.”

McKelvin might very well be the most confident smaller-school product to enter the draft. He played one year at Troy with DeMarcus Ware and considers himself the elite return man in the draft, several times drawing comparisons between himself and Bears playmaker Devin Hester.

“I’m the best return man coming into this draft,” said McKelvin, who’s remaining in school to finish his degree this spring. “I’ll do the things that Devin Hester is doing right now. So that should help me a lot.”

McKelvin acknowledges that many consider the Sun Belt the lowest level of college football and he’s had to answer questions about his competition.

“There are athletes everywhere. It doesn’t matter where you are at whether you are in the Sun Belt or the SEC, ACC they’ll come find you,” says the corner who claims to have held Calvin Johnson to just two receptions for 9 yards in a matchup with the current Detroit Lion. “You just have to go out there and show them and compete to the best of your ability.”

Some of the corners who might be available in the middle of the draft in the second through fourth rounds include Indiana’ Tracy Porter (5-11, 185), USC’s Terrell Thomas (6-1, 197), Iowa’s Charles Godfrey (5-11, 207), Virginia Tech’s Brandon Flowers (5-9, 189), Boston College’s DeJuan Tribble (5-8, 189), Penn State’s Justin King (5-11, 192) and LSU’s Chevis Jackson (6-0, 188).

Godfrey is a physical, man-to-man defender who played under former Bill Belichick assistant Kirk Ferentz with Hawkeyes. He patterns he’s game after Green Bay’s Al Harris and has a Houston Texans tattoo on his right hand. But he thinks his time under the former Belichick assistant has him well prepared for any system and he believes he could contribute immediately as a nickel back at the next level.

“Coach Ferentz is always bringing up the Patriots,” said Godfrey, who says he has met Belichick and would be happy to get the call from New England.
“He’s always referring to the fact that Patriots are the great team and the reason why they are a great team is they do things right. It’s not because they have all these super stars or all these guys with unbelievable talent. It’s just that they are working hard and doing they best they can do and coming collectively so they can be the best they can be.”

The undersized Tribble, who said he’s often told he plays bigger than he is, also talked about his college team’s admiration of the New England organization. The Eagles star said he watched a lot of Asante Samuel, Champ Bailey and Chris McAllister in an effort to improve his own game.

“They are a real classy group, a real respected team,” Tribble said of the Patriots. “They get things done the right way. I feel like they prepare as well as any team can prepare. I feel like the players around the whole team there, they’re well connected. I think that’s team bonding, something we tried to follow after the Patriots. We did that a lot at B.C. If your guys are clicking on the team then that’s just going to make the team that much better.”

Some of the corners that could go in the later part of the draft include a diverse crop of players like UConn’s Tyvon Branch (6-0, 198), Kent State’s Jack Williams (5-9, 180), Missouri’s Darnell Terrell (6-2, 200), LSU’s Jonathan Zenon (6-0, 180), Eastern Kentucky’s Antwaun Molden (6-1, 198), Arizona’s Wilrey Fontenot (5-9, 176) and Oklahoma’s Marcus Walker (5-11, 198).

Zenon is interesting in that he has decent size and obviously comes from a big-time program with the Tigers that’s produced plenty of NFL defensive backs in recent years.

“I need to run a better 40, that’s the main thing I need to do,” Zenon said. “That way I can be projected in a great round. 4.3 would be the number that I’m going for.”

Zenon has spoken with fellow Tigers like Joseph Addai, Dwayne Bowe, LaRon Landry and Craig Davis about the draft process and thinks it can help him.

“I think it gives you an edge because you are going to know what to expect when you come here,” Zenon said. “They let you know what to expect and it gives you a heads up.’

But the biggest thing that can help any of the corners in the draft, from top prospects to late-round sleepers, is to run Tuesday’s 40 in as fast a time as possible. After years of playing football, making plays, building a film library and doing everything their coaches have asked, running a fast 40 yards in shorts will go a long way in deciding the future for the 57 defensive backs in Indy for the Combine.

From a Patriots perspective it will be interesting if the team looks to the cornerback spot early in the draft to fill the potential void left if Samuel signs elsewhere. Either way the team will have to dip into the corner pool at some point on draft weekend in the hopes of developing another All-Pro like the franchise was able to do with Law and Samuel in recent years.