Tuesday, March 4, 2008

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

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