Patriots Preseason Practice Games

By: Greg
The Patriots have released thier schedule for the Preseason:


Week 1: At Iggles



No Big story lines here. Well get to see the first action of the 11 or so draft picks the Patriots have and the 2 first round picks the Eagles have. Since its the Preseason we wont be seeing McNabb throwing up in the huddle.



Week 2: vs Bungles

The Patriots will get to host Ocho Cinco and company for their first home game of the preseason. Lets see if Ocho Cinco will profess his love for BB again. This game also brings the return of Rhode Islander Matt Sherry (on right) who was drafted out of Villanova a year a go. Matt starred at Bishop Hendricken in Warwick, RI and was on the I.R. last season for the Bengals.



Week 3 at Redskins

We get to see the 100 million dollar man in Albert Hanynesworthamillion. This game is also on national TV and is the game where the starters will get the most playing time out of the three games.



Week 4 vs G-Men

The annual family day with the Giants. This is the game where everyone sells/gives thier tickets away to friends and families which means the ratio of Drunk to non drunk goes from 90/10 to 20/80. You see a lot of pink jerseys and lil Pats fans showing up for this one, just keeping them away from Plaxico.

NFL Mock Draft Version II 3/29/09

*Version II Updated 3/29/09
Numerous Changes from Mock Draft 1 because of free agency, rumors and pro days.
You can find a large mock draft data base at http://dcprosportsreport.com/mockdraftdatabase/nfl.html

1. Detroit Kittens
Team Needs: QB, MLB, DE, CB
Matthew Stafford – QB- GA
They need a QB who does not run out of the back of the End zone, Stafford has the tools but does he have ‘it’.

2. St Louie Rams
Team Needs: OT, CB, MLB
Eugene Monroe- OT- Virginia
An OT is a must here: Its either Baylor Smith or Monroe.

3. KC Chefs
Team Needs: LB, OT, DE, WR
Aaron Curry- OLB – Wake
Could be the best player in the draft. With Pioli there I see them taking a defensive player.

4. Seattle Super Sonics
Team Needs: WR, DT, FS,
Jason Smith- OT- Baylor
A stacked year for OTs.

5. Cleveland Brownies
Team Needs: LB, OT, TE, CB, and a COACH (haha)

Brain Orrakpo- OLB- Texas
The Brownies will bulster their defense with a solid pass rusher.

6. Bungals
Team Needs: WR, OT, C, DT
Micheal Crabtree- WR- Tech
I think Crabtree is the next Larry Fitz. He falls to the Bungals because of his injury but is a steal and is a must for the Bungals with the loss of whosurmomma.

7. Da Raiiiiders
Team Needs: OT, DT, WR
BJ Raji- DT_ Boston College
I think Al Davis would love it, if Crabtree dropped to them but Raji will be a star in this league but is he flashy enough for davis and the Raiders to pick up

8. Jaguars
Team Needs: OT, WR, CB
Jermey Maclin- WR- Mizz
Recently Matt Jones (a first round WR) got drunk on probation and got kicked off the team. Jags need a playmaker to help out their QB.

9. Packers
Team Needs: CB, OLB, OT, DE
Everett Brown- OLB- FSU
A guy who can get after the QB, will help the Packers defense tremendously.

10. Niners
Team Needs: QB, CB, OT, OLB, WR,
Mark Sanchez- QB- USC
They can not go any longer with Hill or Smith at the helm. They could be a sleeper team this year.

11. Bills
Team Needs: TE, DE, OG, OT
Aarron Maybin- DE- Penn St.
The Bills need an outside rusher and Maybin can get off the edge like no one else in this draft but is he just a one year wonder.

12. Broncos
Team Needs: DT, LB, DB
Rey Maualuga- LB- USC
Broncos can score but can not prevent a score. Rey gives them a solid LB for the future.


13. Redskins
Team Needs: OT, OLB, DE
Andre Smith – OT- Alabama
Skins need an OT and this is a great year to have that need. This guy is talented but very immature. Hes a top 3 talent but will he grow up?

14. Saints
Team Needs: OLB, CB, C
Malcom Jenkins- CB- Ohio State
Jenkins will be the first corner taken off the board. The Saints like the Broncos have trouble stopping anyone on defense. Jenkins will be plugged into the starting line up right away.

15. Texans
Team Needs: S, OLB, RB
Brain Cushing- LB- USC
Versatile LB who can play inside or outside.

16. Chargers
Team Needs: OL, DE, ILB
Tyson Jackson- DE – LSU
Outside rusher to compliment Steriods Lights Out.

17. Jets
Team Needs: Their own stadium, QB, WR, S
Percy Harvin - Harvin is a all around tool who can make plays.

18. Bears
Team Needs: WR, OL, DE
Darius Heywood Bey- WR- Maryland
This guy is a stud and personally think he will be the second best WR in this draft.

19. Buccs
Team Needs: QB, DT, WR, RB, OLB
Josh Freeman- QB- K State
Buccs have released everyone on their roster and badly need a QB, this year will be a rebuilding year.


20. Lions
Team Needs: QB, MLB, DE, CB
Clay Matthews- LB- USC
The third LB from USC taken. Lions get two solid picks in the first round.

21. Eagles
Team Needs: TE, S, RB, WR
Chris Wells- RB- Ohio State
Maybe Wells can get those 3rd and 1, 4th and 1 and goal line carries that killed the Iggles last season.

22. Vikings
Team Needs: OT, CB, DL
Micheal Oher- OT- Ole Miss
A great story from Oher, read his life story in the Book: Blind Side of the Game by Michael Lewis- He will pave holes for AP for years to come.

23. Patriots
Team Needs: OLB, OT, DB, MLB, WR of future,
Connor Barwin- OLB/TE/Everything- Cincy

Last Mock I went with Sintim here and still think its up in the air between these two guys along with Larry English out of N. Illinois.
They recently hosted Barwin at Foxboro and came away impressed. So the momentum swings towards Barwin who is a Vrabel type of player. He is veristile, agile and hostile. He can get after the passer and even catch passes from Brady if it comes down to it (Playing TE in college before moving to OLB).


Here is a breakdown of the three players from NFL DraftCountdown:

Clint Smith- OLB- Virginia
Strengths:Excellent size...Long arms...Good athlete...Fantastic pass rusher and blitzer...Good strength...Tough...Physical...A powerful tackler...Looks comfortable in coverage...Does a nice job of taking on and shedding blockers...Decent range...Aggressive with a non-stop motor...Makes plays in pursuit...Solid instincts...Is intense and competitive...Offers some versatility...Productive...Has a lot of experience...A team leader.

Weaknesses:Relatively average timed speed...Limited reps in coverage...Hips aren't real fluid...Tends to play too tall...Will struggle to turn and run in man...Does not use his hands well...Didn't make many plays on the boundaries...Possible conditioning issues...Minor durability concerns. Notes:Was a four-year starter in the ACC...Named 2nd Team All-ACC in 2008...Led the entire country in linebacker sacks as a senior...Played through a serious shoulder injury in 2006 that eventually required surgery...Started his final 49 games with the Cavs...Could project outside or inside...Best fit at the next level will likely come on the strongside in a 4-3 scheme or outside in a 3-4...Big, versatile 'backer who makes a ton of impact plays...Excellent pro prospect who could end up being a stud in the NFL like Ahmad Brooks was supposed to be.


Connor Barwin- OLB- Cincy

Strengths:Outstanding athleticism...Great speed...Quick with a tremendous first step...Relentless with a non-stop motor...Smooth with good balance and agility...Terrific range...Does a great job in pursuit and has a burst to close...Is comfortable in space...Very instinctive with good awareness...Excellent special teamer...Extremely versatile...Intense and competitive...Smart...A fantastic work ethic...Has a ton of upside.

Weaknesses:Doesn't have great bulk...Still very raw and needs a lot of work in the technique department...Pass rush repertoire is pretty limited...Is not stout at the point of attack and can get pushed around...Doesn't do a great job against the run...Must get stronger...May lack a true position. Notes:Actually played tight end his first three seasons in college and finished his career with 53 receptions for 692 yards (13.1 avg.) and 6 touchdowns...Could also project to outside linebacker at the next level and some scouts still like him as a tight end...Played 41 games in two seasons as a walk-on with the Bearcats basketball team and scored 45 points...Moved to defensive end as a senior and was a genuine revelation, earning 1st Team All-Big East honors and even leading the conference in sacks...Also blocked three punts and broke up eight passes in 2008...Basically got by on pure talent in 2008 but was still able to made a lot of impact plays and it's scary to think how good he could eventually be...Really improved his draft stock as much as any prospect in the country as a senior...What position he will ultimately end up playing is still up for debate but his intriguing mix of physical tools and potential will make him a valuable commodity on Draft Day.

Larry English- DE/OLB- N. Illinois

Strengths:Good natural athlete...Has long arms...Very quick with a burst to close...Physical...Aggressive...Can deliver the big hit...Uses his hands well...Has a terrific motor...Employs a wide array of pass rush moves...Good strength and power...Shows the ability to beat double teams...Smart...Good instincts and awareness...Extremely productive.

Weaknesses:Does not have the size or bulk you look for in an NFL defensive end...Lacks elite timed speed...May have to make a position change at the next level...Durability is a real concern...Does not have fluid hips...Struggles in space...Did not always play against top competition. Notes:Uncle, Charles Richardson, lettered as a fullback at Wisconsin in 1972...Named the Mid-American Conference's Most Valuable Player two years in a row ('07 and ''08)...Also named the MAC Defensive Player of the Year as a senior...Owns the Huskies career sack record...Redshirted as a true freshman after he missed the final 11 games with an ankle injury...Tore his ACL in the Poinsettia Bowl as a sophomore...Tore a pectoral muscle prior to his senior campaign...Underwent surgery to place pins in his broken right thumb during the 2008 season...College defensive end who will probably have to move to outside linebacker in the NFL (most likely in a 3-4 scheme) but may not have the physical tools to do so successfully...Superb college player with an impressive resumé but a classic 'tweener who appears to be getting overrated as a pro prospect.

24. Falcons
Team Needs: DL, OLB, S
Larry English- DL- N. Illinois
See Above

25. Dolphins
Team Needs: WR, CB, OLB
Clint Sintim- OLB
See Above


26. Baltimore
Team Needs: WR, LB,
Hakeem Nicks- WR- UNC
Need some help for Joey Flacco.

27. Colts
Team Needs: DT, WR, DB, new commercial for Peyton
Ron Brace- DT- BC
He is a guy whose been climbing up the draft boards and will be a solid DT inside the colts defense.

28. Eagles
Team Needs: TE, S, RB, WR
Brandon Pettigrew- TE- Ok State
Best TE in the draft will have an immediate impact with McNabb because of the loss of LJ Smith

29. Giants
Team Needs: WR, OT, OLB, RB, TE, S
Kenny Britt- WR- Rutgers
Need to fill the void of Cheddar Bob aka Plaxico Buress.

30. Titans
Team Needs: WR, DT, MLB
Peria Jerry – DT- Miss.
Fills the need of the 100 million dollar man.

31. Cards
Team Needs: OL, RB, CB
Knoshawn Moreno- RB – GA
What a steal this deep in the draft. Moreno is the real deal and the Cards get another weapon.

32. Steelers
Team Needs: OL, DL, CB
Vonte Davis- CB – Illinois
Davis is the 2nd best CB in a weak CB draft.

Sibling Rivalry: Jason Taylor or Julius Peppers

By: Greg and Rocky

*This is a new segment to New England Patriots Blog: Sibling Rivalry.

As brothers it's natural that we argue. Growing up we would fight about who was the bigger chowderhead, who would get to pick the Patriots in a game of Madden or who would take the rap this time for almost burning down the house (sorry mom!) but now we have grown up and while we aren't much more mature, the things we fight about are. We now argue over which basketball conference is better the Big East (Rocky) or the ACC (Greg) and, of course, the Patriots. These conversations usually happen after a couple of Narragansetts at the bar but since we are miles apart now we will have to fight over e-mail, text message and on this blog. Which one of us is the chowderhead is now for you to decide

Round 1: Who would you rather on the Patriots, Jason Taylor or Julius Peppers?

Julius Peppers (Rocky)

1. Listen, lil bro, I'd rather add some Peppers to the magical mix. Like a horse breeder I'm very wary of injuries and Jason Taylor will need to mobile, agile and hostile. Note: Brady has never really been mobile. But let's look at the raw data.


2. Peppers is half a decade younger.


3. Total tackles last year Taylor 29; Peppers 51. Total sacks last season Taylor 3.5; Peppers 14.5. Fox trot Taylor 22; Peppers n/a.


4. Also Taylor is way too pretty for our locker room. I can't see him taking a backseat to Brady like Moss has done so well. If some miracle enables Peppers to negotiate a reasonable contract (perhaps a cheap one-year then after a Super Bowl with the Pats he can demand a monster in time for the possible non-salary cap season in 2010) I think we take the freak.
   

Jason Taylor (Greg)

1. Cost about 10 million dollars cheaper.I know Im the brother eating at the dollar menu while you dine at places you actually have utensils but saving is my forte and the Pats could do a whole lot with that extra 10 million


2. Patriots love him
   BB has been know to gush about him and Tom Brady is a close buddy (but he wasn’t invited to the wedding)


3. He is a Patriots killer
   Whenever he played the Pats he would disrupt Brady or Cassel ((10/21), picked off a Matt Cassel pass and went 36 yards for a touchdown and Cassel was promptly benched)


4. He is a natural pass rusher
   While he does not have the stats last year that Peppers does he does lead the NFL in sacks over the last 4 years


5. He is an outside linebacker and can play with his hand on the ground or out in space
   Can not say the same for Peppers, he has never played OLB and has never had to cover anyone. I say that Peppers who not be able to cover even Christia Furia never mind Tony Gonzalez or Dallas Clarke
   

OK FOBs (Friends of the Blog) tell us who won Round 1 of the Sibling Rivalry and which prospective Pat you'd rather have.

Pats get 3 more draft picks

By: Greg

Because of losing Free Agents Randall Gay, Assante Samuel and Donte Stallworth, the Patriots have earned 3 compensatory draft picks. The picks are a 3rd Rounder (97), 5th Rounder (170) and 6th Rounder (207).

The 97th overall pick is because of Assante Samuel and is the highest possible pick that any team was award for compensation.

The Patriots now own 6 picks in the first 3 rounds and a total of 11 picks in the draft.

Look for the Patriots to do some wheeling and dealing especially in the second round where they own 3 picks. I see the Patriots trading one of their seconds this year for a future second plus another pick.

With 6 picks in the first 3 rounds I look for the Pats to get a lot younger and faster on the defensive side of the ball along with getting some depth for the offensive line.

Patriots open up with T.O. and the Bills on MNF

By: Greg

The NFL has announced their schedule for opening weekend and the Patriots have the pleasure of hosting T.O and the Bills on Monday Night Football. Maybe the Pats can hire Jessica Simpson to bear all in the locker room and keep T.O. out for the first half.

The over/under for the first T.O. blow up on Trent Edwards is halftime. I am taking the under.

While I rather have the Pats open up on Sunday, I guess I can wait another day until they start the demise of T.O. and the Bills. 6 Months to go.....

Lingerie Football in New England

By Rocky

Editors’ note: this post has nothing to do with the Patriots.

Apparently Tom Brady isn’t the only football player in New England who looks good in underwear. Boston’s Fox affiliate went to the tryouts for the New England Euphoria—our team in the Lingerie Football League. Warning: The video is as sharp as Fox News’s dressing down of the Republican party and the Euphoria's website is, believe it or not, rough on the eyes.

The 7-on-7 full contact (hehe) league kicks off this fall. While we regretfully don’t have any insider insight from the combine our fantasy draft would include a few talents from The Foxy Lady. Again, sorry for the non-Patriots post we just wanted to let you know about another football team that we can all get behind.

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NFL Mock Draft 3/19/2009

By: Greg

This is the first version of New England Patriots Blog mock draft for 2009. You can find a large mock draft data base at http://dcprosportsreport.com/mockdraftdatabase/nfl.html

1. Detroit Kittens
Team Needs: QB, MLB, DE, CB
Matthew Stafford – QB- GA
They need a QB who does not run out of the back of the End zone, Stafford has the tools but does he have ‘it’.

2. St Louie Rams
Team Needs: OT, CB, MLB
Eugene Monroe- OT- Virginia
An OT is a must here: Its either Baylor Smith or Monroe.

3. KC Chefs
Team Needs: LB, OT, DE, WR
Aaron Curry- OLB – Wake
Could be the best player in the draft. With Pioli there I see them taking a defensive player.

4. Seattle Super Sonics
Team Needs: WR, DT, FS,
BJ Raji- DT- Boston College
Raji is a game changer ala Vince Wilfork. With the addition of TJ whoseyourmomma that eliminates Crabtree

5. Cleveland Brownies
Team Needs: LB, OT, TE, CB, and a COACH (haha)

Brain Orrakpo- OLB- Texas
The Brownies will bulster their defense with a solid pass rusher.

6. Bengals
Team Needs: WR, OT, C, DT
Micheal Crabtree- WR- Tech
I think Crabtree is the next Larry Fitz. He falls to the Bungals because of his injury but is a steal and is a must for the Bungals with the loss of whosurmomma.

7. Da Raiiiiders
Team Needs: OT, DT, WR
Jason Smith- OT- Baylor
He fell in this Mock and is a great pick up for the Raiders.

8. Jaguars
Team Needs: OT, WR, CB
Andre Smith- OT- Alabama
This guy is a beast but is very immature. If he can get his stuff straight he will be an impact player and make holes for MJD.

9. Packers
Team Needs: CB, OLB, OT, DE
Everett Brown- OLB- FSU
A guy who can get after the QB, will help the Packers defense tremendously.

10. Niners
Team Needs: QB, CB, OT, OLB, WR,
Mark Sanchez- QB- USC
They can not go any longer with Hill or Smith at the helm. They could be a sleeper team this year.

11. Bills
Team Needs: TE, DE, OG, OT
Aarron Maybin- DE- Penn St.
The Bills need an outside rusher and Maybin can get off the edge like no one else in this draft but is he just a one year wonder.

12. Broncos
Team Needs: DT, LB, DB
Rey Maualuga- LB- USC
Broncos can score but can not prevent a score. Rey gives them a solid LB for the future. Could change with the Cutler situation.


13. Redskins
Team Needs: OT, OLB, DE
Micheal Oher- OT- Ole Miss
Skins will be getting a great talent with Oher but he needs to keep his head on straight. Read the Blind Side of the Game by Michael Lewis to hear Oher’s life story. One of the better books I have read in the past year.

14. Saints
Team Needs: OLB, CB, C
Malcom Jenkins- CB- Ohio State
Jenkins will be the first corner taken off the board. The Saints like the Broncos have trouble stopping anyone on defense. Jenkins will be plugged into the starting line up right away.

15. Texans
Team Needs: S, OLB, RB
Brain Cushing- LB- USC
Versatile LB who can play inside or outside.

16. Chargers
Team Needs: OL, DE, ILB
Tyson Jackson- DE – LSU
Outside rusher to compliment Steriods Lights Out.

17. Jets
Team Needs: Their own stadium, QB, WR, S
Jeremey Maclin- WR- Missouri
Maclin is a speedy WR who will fill the hole of Coles departure.

18. Bears
Team Needs: WR, OL, DE
Percy Harvin- WR- Florida
Bears haven’t had a serious WR threat for a while, Harvin is a all around tool who can make plays.

19. Buccs
Team Needs: QB, DT, WR, RB, OLB
Josh Freeman- QB- K State
Buccs have released everyone on their roster and badly need a QB, this year will be a rebuilding year.


20. Lions
Team Needs: QB, MLB, DE, CB
Clay Matthews- LB- USC
The third LB from USC taken. Lions get two solid picks in the first round.

21. Eagles
Team Needs: TE, S, RB, WR
Chris Wells- RB- Ohio State
Maybe Wells can get those 3rd and 1, 4th and 1 and goal line carries that killed the Iggles last season.

22. Vikings
Team Needs: OT, CB, DL
Vontae Davis- CB- Illinois
Need help in their defensive back field and Davis will help.

23. Patriots
Team Needs: DB, OLB, OT, MLB, WR of future,
Clint Sintim OLB- Virginia-

Its between Sintim, Connor Barwin and Larry English. Sintim wins out because of a couple of factors. 1. he played in the Bilichick tree with Al Groh at Virginia 2. he has great experience starting 4 years in the ACC 3.He is versatile.
Here is a breakdown of the three players from NFL DraftCountdown:

Clint Sintim- OLB- Virginia
Strengths:Excellent size...Long arms...Good athlete...Fantastic pass rusher and blitzer...Good strength...Tough...Physical...A powerful tackler...Looks comfortable in coverage...Does a nice job of taking on and shedding blockers...Decent range...Aggressive with a non-stop motor...Makes plays in pursuit...Solid instincts...Is intense and competitive...Offers some versatility...Productive...Has a lot of experience...A team leader. Weaknesses:Relatively average timed speed...Limited reps in coverage...Hips aren't real fluid...Tends to play too tall...Will struggle to turn and run in man...Does not use his hands well...Didn't make many plays on the boundaries...Possible conditioning issues...Minor durability concerns. Notes:Was a four-year starter in the ACC...Named 2nd Team All-ACC in 2008...Led the entire country in linebacker sacks as a senior...Played through a serious shoulder injury in 2006 that eventually required surgery...Started his final 49 games with the Cavs...Could project outside or inside...Best fit at the next level will likely come on the strongside in a 4-3 scheme or outside in a 3-4...Big, versatile 'backer who makes a ton of impact plays...Excellent pro prospect who could end up being a stud in the NFL like Ahmad Brooks was supposed to be.

Connor Barwin- OLB- Cincy

Strengths:Outstanding athleticism...Great speed...Quick with a tremendous first step...Relentless with a non-stop motor...Smooth with good balance and agility...Terrific range...Does a great job in pursuit and has a burst to close...Is comfortable in space...Very instinctive with good awareness...Excellent special teamer...Extremely versatile...Intense and competitive...Smart...A fantastic work ethic...Has a ton of upside. Weaknesses:Doesn't have great bulk...Still very raw and needs a lot of work in the technique department...Pass rush repertoire is pretty limited...Is not stout at the point of attack and can get pushed around...Doesn't do a great job against the run...Must get stronger...May lack a true position. Notes:Actually played tight end his first three seasons in college and finished his career with 53 receptions for 692 yards (13.1 avg.) and 6 touchdowns...Could also project to outside linebacker at the next level and some scouts still like him as a tight end...Played 41 games in two seasons as a walk-on with the Bearcats basketball team and scored 45 points...Moved to defensive end as a senior and was a genuine revelation, earning 1st Team All-Big East honors and even leading the conference in sacks...Also blocked three punts and broke up eight passes in 2008...Basically got by on pure talent in 2008 but was still able to made a lot of impact plays and it's scary to think how good he could eventually be...Really improved his draft stock as much as any prospect in the country as a senior...What position he will ultimately end up playing is still up for debate but his intriguing mix of physical tools and potential will make him a valuable commodity on Draft Day.


Larry English- DE/OLB- N. Illinois
Strengths:Good natural athlete...Has long arms...Very quick with a burst to close...Physical...Aggressive...Can deliver the big hit...Uses his hands well...Has a terrific motor...Employs a wide array of pass rush moves...Good strength and power...Shows the ability to beat double teams...Smart...Good instincts and awareness...Extremely productive. Weaknesses:Does not have the size or bulk you look for in an NFL defensive end...Lacks elite timed speed...May have to make a position change at the next level...Durability is a real concern...Does not have fluid hips...Struggles in space...Did not always play against top competition. Notes:Uncle, Charles Richardson, lettered as a fullback at Wisconsin in 1972...Named the Mid-American Conference's Most Valuable Player two years in a row ('07 and ''08)...Also named the MAC Defensive Player of the Year as a senior...Owns the Huskies career sack record...Redshirted as a true freshman after he missed the final 11 games with an ankle injury...Tore his ACL in the Poinsettia Bowl as a sophomore...Tore a pectoral muscle prior to his senior campaign...Underwent surgery to place pins in his broken right thumb during the 2008 season...College defensive end who will probably have to move to outside linebacker in the NFL (most likely in a 3-4 scheme) but may not have the physical tools to do so successfully...Superb college player with an impressive resumé but a classic 'tweener who appears to be getting overrated as a pro prospect.



24. Falcons
Team Needs: DL, OLB, S
Larry English- DL- N. Illinois
See Above



25. Dolphins
Team Needs: WR, CB, OLB
Connor Barwin- OLB- Dolphins
A versatile player who will thrive on a Bill Parcels team. Could be a great player but lacks the experience at LB.


26. Baltimore
Team Needs: WR, LB,
Darius Heywood-Bey- WR- Maryland
Need a weapon for the Young QB. Bey is a great talent and snatches anything in his area. I believe he will be the second best WR in the draft.

27. Colts
Team Needs: DT, WR, DB, new commercial for Peyton
Ron Brace- DT- BC
He is a guy whose been climbing up the draft boards and will be a solid DT inside the colts defense.

28. Eagles
Team Needs: TE, S, RB, WR
Brandon Pettigrew- TE- Ok State
Best TE in the draft will have an immediate impact with McNabb because of the loss of LJ Smith

29. Giants
Team Needs: WR, OT, OLB, RB, TE, S
Hakeem Nicks- WR- UNC
This pick depend on whether or not Plaxico is still with the GMEN.


30. Titans
Team Needs: WR, DT, MLB
Peria Jerry – DT- Miss.
Fills the need of the 100 million dollar man.

31. Cards
Team Needs: OL, RB, CB
Knoshawn Moreno- RB – GA
What a steal this deep in the draft. Moreno is the real deal and the Cards get another weapon.

32. Steelers
Team Needs: OL, DL, CB
Darius Butler- CB- UConn

Lost a corner to free agency Butler will step in right away for the steel curtain.

Brady and Gisele: Ringless

By Rocky

TMZ reports that Brady! and Mrs Bunchen-Brady were spotted without their wedding rings! Hey, where's his Super Bowl rings? Maybe Putin pocketed all of them.

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RUMOR ALERT! : Peppers to the Pats for 2nd Round Pick

Yes we all have been wondering what the Patriots would do with all this cap room from the trade: Would they go after Jason Taylor? resign Vince Wilfork? Put another an Amazing SuperStore at Patriots Place? or trade for Julius Peppers?

Well it seems like the later is true.....

"The trade that sent Matt Cassel and Mike Vrabel to the Kansas City Chiefs appears to be only the first phase of some major wheeling and dealing by the New England Patriots this offseason.
The second phase, NFL sources say, is likely to involve a trade that would send . . . Peppers to the Patriots in exchange for the second-round pick (34th overall) they received from the Chiefs Feb. 28.
According to league sources, the Patriots and Panthers are hoping to complete the deal at some point between the March 22-25 NFL owners meetings and the start of the draft on April 25." NFL.com

I am estastic. More on this later.....hopefully....

Belichick Sings Back Up for Bon Jovi

By Rocky

We've been asking ourselves, "What can't Belichick do?" Finally we have found our answer:



And we thought our karaoke nights were dreadful. Greg is on par with Bronson Arroyo:



J.R. sounds like Singletary in the Super Bowl Shuffle; Rocky takes his styling from Steve Fuller of the same dance line:



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Hey Joeyyy Gunz: Galloway signs with the Patriots

By Greg

ESPN is reporting that the Patriots have signed Joey Galloway to a one year deal. Galloway had a career low 13 catches last year in an injury plagued season. But the previous three years he totaled over 1,000 yards in each season.

After trading for Greg Lewis I thought the Patriots would not be going after Joeyyy or any other free agent Wide Out, even though I was very intrigued with the possibility of Tory Holt. That being said I like this signing. Yes he is old. Yes he only had 13 catches last season. Yes he is often injured but he is an upgrade Jabar Drops Gaffney and Greg Lewis.

Reasons why I like this trade:

• He can stretch the field and is known for his speed. Perfect compliment to the Water Bug and Swagger like Moss


• He can produce- having 1,000 yards in his previous three seasons before last


• As a 3rd wideout he can beat most 3rd corner backs, on the Bucs he was most of the time covered by the number one corner back
• Plus dudes got GUNZ

Mike is Right

The Patriots have resigned D-Lineman Mike Wright to a four year deal. The deal is rumored to be worth over 7 million.

This deal is a good signing for the Patriots. He gives the Pats versatility in being able to play both DT and DE. Also with Seymour Butts and Vince Wilfork in the last year of contracts, it provides security for next year if they lose one or both players.

Mike Wright is a high motor guy who produces when he get his chance. Last year he had 2.5 sacks and 33 tackles which were career highs. The Price is Wright.

Polling the FOBs

By Greg

What is a FOB?

A Fob stands for Friends of the Blog.

Here at NE Patriots Blog we recently polled all of you FOBs, asking you the question: Are you happy with the Cassel trade?

The answers were:

Hell No! We gave up too much (30%)

Yes! It needed to be done to clear cap (45%)

Ehh I dunno (25%)

First off, for those who could not make up your mind...where is your head at. You have to have an opinion one way or another. You are the guy/girl sitting a the local watering hole and when asked about the trade and all you have to say is ehhhh i dunno! Come on now. I bet after a couple Narragansetts you would be screaming at the bar tender that the Patriots could have gotten way more for Cassel or telling your friend that hes is a fucking idiot for not seeing the value in clearing cap. So next time you vote on our polls, take a few shots of tequila and make up your mind.

The majority of you FOBS feel that the trade needed to be done to clear cap. They save a crap load of money which lead to the signings of Fred Taylor, Chris Baker, Leigh Botten and Shawn Springs. If they had kept Cassel waiting for the best deal they might have gotten more buttttttt they would not have had room to sign these fine young gentlemen. So looking at the big picture we traded Cassel and Vrabel for a 2nd rounder, Leigh Botten and Shawn Springs. The deal doesnt look to bad any more now does it. It also gives the Pats room to resign Vince Wilfork, any day now, I am waiting and hoping.

We thank you FOBers for voting on the first poll. A new poll will be up shortly. Also if you FOBs arent already friends with us on Facebook, friend us NewEngland PatriotsBlog is the name, writing shitty posts is my game (gregs).

The Bodden Deal

By: Greg

The Patriots have recently signed another defensive back, Leigh Bodden. Bodden recently played for the 0-16 Lions but was released because of a big bonus that would have kicked in, in his second year. The Lions saw somehting in him while playing for a Bilichick disciple Romeo, O Romeo and the Cleveland Brownies. He was traded to the Lions for superstar DT Shaun Rogers. Bodden only had the only interception for the Lions defensive backs last season. In 2007 he had a career high 6 picks.

One of the Patriots biggest areas of need was defensive back and they have certainly adressesed that need with the signing of Springs and Bodden. Team them up with Ellis Hobbs and youngins Wheatley and Whilite; and the Patriots secondary went from poor to above average. Bodden and Springs are huge upgrades over Lewis Sanders and any of the other CBs that filled in last season.

Bodden also expressed his interest in playing for a champion after not winning a game last season. He also said that he would like to play for more than one season in New England:

""It just didn't come to terms with the money that both of us could agree to with a long-term deal, so we just got the one-year deal done, pretty much go play there, have a solid year. The Patriots always are destined to make the playoffs. Finally, I can hopefully shoot for that, make the playoffs, play good in the playoffs and hit free agency again. But I’d rather not. New England is a great team. I would rather just re-sign with them, and hopefully we can just come to terms hopefully during the season, if not, then after the season."

-Bodden told hosts Pat Kirwan and Tim Ryan on Movin' The Chains

Springing for 3 years: Shawn signs for 3 years

Shawn Springs deal is officially 3 years and could be worth as much as 13 million if he earns all of his incentives. Springs is Turing 34 in a few days and has 34 career interceptions.
He should start next to Ellis Hobbs.

Pros
-Physical corner
- Very Experienced
-Can Shut down new AFC east rival T.O.
-Will be good for the Pats younger corners to learn from
-Very good at covering slot receivers
-It at least gives the Pats depth at CB




Cons
- Hes 34 years old
- Its a 3 year deal where he will be a 37 year old corner...ehhhh

Yes he is old but overall he provides a solid corner. The Pats are hurting in the secondary and I think a veteran presence such as Springs will help out the younger corners. Whilte and Wheatley should improve over the next season and look for the Pats to take at least one CB in their first four picks.

Five New Contracts to Consider

By Rocky

Five fresh John Hancocks, five grammar school type questions. Fill in the blank:

Word Bank
Shawn Springs, Greg Lewis, James Sanders, Chris Hanson, Eric Alexander


1. The last contract of ___________’s career has most likely not been signed; he will be a free agent again when he is 28.

2. Yikes. ____________ missed playing time after he wounded himself with an axe whilst getting fired up in the locker room.

3. When you Google "____________" a tenor saxophonist is the first entry.

4. Ron, ___________’s father, played for the Buccaneers.

5. The Illini's _________ went undrafted when he came out in 2003.


Answers

1. James Sanders (insurance for Rodney Harrison?). 2. Chris Hanson (Jack Del Rio tried to motivate his team by having them chop wood. Hanson might be a Nordic name but the Pro Bowler is no lumberjäck). 3. The man with two first names, Eric Alexander, was born in Tyler, Texas. 4. Shawn Springs (Ron also played for the Cowboys but sported that awesome Bucs’ creamsicle uni). 5. Greg Lewis ‘n the News.

-30-

Pats get WR Greg Lewis in trade

By: Greg

The Patriots have a void at the 3rd WR spot and might have just filled it. Today the Patriots traded what is believe to be a 5th round pick for WR Greg Lewis from the Iggles (Pats also recieve a 7th rounder in 2010).

Lewis is known for his speed so he might be able to stretch the field. Last season he talled 19 catches , 1 td and 247 yards, I know not eye catching stats. His best year was in 2005 when he caught 48 balls and had 561 yards. Other than that he has never snatch more than 24 pigskins in a year and that is on an Iggles team who were hurting for a Wideout, any wideout to help Donavan McThrown Up.

As you can tell I am not ecstatic about Lewis. The Pats front office must see something in him that I do not. But that being said they are only giving up a 5th round pick in a draft where they have a ton of picks. Lewis is probably better than any WR that they could have picked up in the 5th. But I hope they still are searching for a 3rd wideout. Also Lewis' contract is extremely cheap which is a plus.

*Hat tip to Rick S. for his post to us at NewEngland PatriotsBlog on facebook. We welcome more friends, just do not poke us.

LaMont Jordan to Denver Broncos

By Rocky

Josh McDaniels signed his third ex-Patriot bringing LaRockyMountain Jordan or Thin-Air Jordan (we’ll let sports radio decide which) to Denver.

In the photo on the right he's pointing a mile high, indicating where his next condo will be.

We don’t know who the Patriots’ offensive coordinator will be so we can’t anticipate how much Jordan would have been used in 09. The guessing seems to be that Bill O’Brien will call the some of shots while being the official unofficial oc under Belichick’s heavy watch. Our tinfoil hat theory was that Belichick signed Jordan last summer to push Maroney and crew. While Jordan contributed averaging ten carries per game he didn’t really raise the bar and our thought is that when he was active he was more of an insurance runner (“If I’m struggling Jordan will step in and push the pile”). Jordan was also inactive—like many of the Pats backfielders—for a good portion of 08. He didn’t hit pay dirt until the 15th week and then he did it was during the 4th quarter in the blowout in Oakland, two against Arizona after Sam Morris lubed up the Cards and in the unpassably windy game in Buffalo.

Looking at this as a LaMont Jordan or Fred Taylor decision: Both are coming off of injuries, neither are young but Taylor’s numbers are far superior and he’s the running back who’ll give Maroney a better run for his money.

-30-

Where there is a will theres a Gallo-way: Joey visits the Pats

By: Greg

After letting Jabar Gaffney go to the Broncos the Patriots have a need at the 3rd WR position. They need a guy who can beat one on ones which will come to him with the defenses attention on the Waterbug and Swagger like Moss. One guy might be Joey Galloway whom the Patriots had in for a visit on Wednesday.

Galloway is 37 years old and recently let go by the Buccaneers (who let go of their whole roster including Steve Young). Galloway can stretch a defense and is known as a deep threat.


Last year however he only register 13 catches for 138 yards in 9 games. In the previous two seasons he compiled over 1,000 yards receiving in each.


This is a very intriguing possibility.

The upside:

• He can stretch the field
• Hes a veteran who will be good in the locker room and is looking for a ring
• He is better than any other 3rd WRs on our squad
• He will probably be cheap
• He has the second biggest biceps for a WR other than Mr. Boston

Downside

• Hes 57 years old
• Last year he only caught 13 balls which could mean he hit a wall
• He is injury plagued
  

They need a 3rd WR. Galloway would be nice. Just say no to T.O. though.

Patrtiots Re-Sign Russ Hochstein

By Rocky

The Pats re-upped the 6’4” 350 lb lineman Russ Hochstein. You may know what designer Gisele’s dogs wore to the Bündchen-Brady! wedding but how well do you know Big Russ? Like the fact that he actually only weighs 305 pounds.

*Tell us how you did in the comments section...




1. What jersey number does Big Russ wear?
a. 69
b. 72
c. 71
d. 00
e. 67

2. What team signed Big Russ to his first pro contract?
a. Pats
b. Bucs
c. Titans
d. Yankees
e. Argonauts

3. Big Russ has played ________ for the Pats. Select all that apply.
a. Guard
b. Center
c. Holder
d. Tight End
e. Fullback

4. If Big Russ were on Jeopardy which category would he most likely pick?
a. 18th Century American Literature
b. Countries in European Union
c. Potent Potables
d. Cryptozoology
e. World Wars

5. What metaphor was he in the “Five Layers of Protection” Visa commercial?
a. Zero Liability
b. Fraud Monitoring
c. Identity Theft Assistance
d. Signature Verification
e. 3-Digit Code



Answers
1 (c. 71; if you got this one, congrats, you didn’t stumble upon this post looking for Brazilian bikini model news, or did you?) 2 (b. Bucs; Tampa took Nebraska’s Russ—don’t call me Russel—Hochstein in the 5th round of the 2001 Draft) 3 (a. b. d. and e.; He’s played every down-lineman position for the Pats and lined up as full back on Corey Dillion’s two yard touchdown in SB43. As for holder, the only thing Big Russ holds is his main squeeze and on rare occasions a charging defensive player) 4 (e. World Wars; Potent Potables would be fun to say but he’s a history buff) 5. (b. Fraud Monitoring)
-30-

Mad About the Cassel Trade? No So Fast Hosses

By Rocky

Immediate gratification only works on prom night and all-you-can-eat buffets. The Vrabel/Cassel deal freed up $20 million and while the recession has hit you and I hoss, Kraft isn’t looking to spare a buck on on-field talent. Darin Gantt of the Herald (no, a different Herald, tip of the Patriots helmet to Gregg Rosenthal of NBC) thinks that the dumping of Cassel and the outside line backer was clearing way for Julius Peppers to join the Pats.

We buy into this because, again like you, we are on the Internets and therefore love theories. But also Peppers has voiced his want to play in a 3-4. Hey we have a 3-4! And if a player openly talks about wanting to move means that the last thing he wants to do is walk out of a tunnel on opening day in front of a crowd he has shunned. Have you ever tried to break up with someone and then find yourself still in the relationship a week later? Not a good situation.

This other post by the other Herald makes it seem that the two natural places for Peppers to go is the Pats or the Fins. We already snatched Taylor from the Bills, this would take talent away from the Big Tuna. It also states that: “The bar for such trades was set last year when Kansas City tagged defensive end Jared Allen and traded him to Minnesota for a first-rounder and two thirds.”

Ok in an Us vs Them draft peak we have one first-rounder (23rd) and three in the second (34, 47, 56); they have one first-rounder (25th) and two in the second (44 and 56). Three things could happen. (1) Somebody else like the Broncos poaches Peppers to help bolster their woeful defense. (2) The Dolphins get Peppers but the Pats drive up the premium on him forcing the Big Tuna to give more than he had wanted. Depleting a conference rival. (3) We grab Peppers and give up high picks in a talent-lacking draft.

We don’t think we’ll dish the same that the Chefs did for Allen—probably two second round picks. The bottom line might be that we traded Cassel, Vrabel and a second-rounder for Peppers. Not to shabby considering that two of those aforementioned giveaways wouldn’t have been impact starters for one of the best on defense in the NFL.

Then would you be happy?

-30-

James Sanders back with the Pats

By Greg

Update: The deal is a 3 year deal worth 9 million

Free Agent James Sanders has agreed to a 3 year deal to come back with the Patriots. Sanders is only 25 and in his 5th year with the Patriots. Last year he started every game in which he was a part in (14 games). He complied 66 stops and 1 interception last season.

Sanders' agent, Steve Feldman, confirmed the agreement.
"It gives him a chance to grow and become a playmaker," Feldman said. "He stays in the same system with a championship team. They know him. He knows them. It was the right fit."- Boston Globe

Reports are that Sanders could have gotten more money else where but decide that New England was a good fit for him. If he would have left that would have made a huge hole in the Patriots defense. It may seem minor but I believe this re signing is huge. The Patriots do not have to address the safety position necessarily now and can focus on other positions like CB and LB. Sanders should slide back into that starting safety again.

Pats looking at a pair of Corners

By Greg

According to reports the Patriots are looking at a pair of corner backs: Shawn Springs and Jabari Greer.

They are hosting Springs tommorrow in Foxboro. Spring who was recently released in a salary cap move from the free spending Redskins is 33 years old. Last season he played in 9 games totaling 36 tackles and one interception.

Jabari Greer is a 27 year old corner who is rated the 9th best free agent and 2nd best FA corner by Yahoo Sports. Last season he had 36 tackles and 2 picks in 10 games before getting hurt in Week 11 and sitting out the rest of the season. Rumor has is it that his asking price will be extremely high.

If Greers asking price is what it is rumored to be I am not interested in paying that kind of money for him. Springs asking price will be a lot cheaper but he is too old at 33 years old and i think the Pats need to get younger rather than older.