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
Saturday, March 8, 2008
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
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
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
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
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
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
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
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
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
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
Monday, March 3, 2008
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
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.
more stories like this
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.
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.
more stories like this
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."
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
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
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.
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.
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