The Offensive Line appears to be the most fluid position on the Pats, with Mankins and Waters the biggest questions. If Vollmer doesn't come back by the start of the season, Marcus Cannon will be the spot starter. This backup tackle spot does seem to be the weak link of the Pats at this moment because Cannon has seemingly disappointed thus far in camp. Below are the 4 different scenarios I see possible. I think in all scenarios, Nick MacDonald is on the bubble, and could be kept on, or cut. I am about 50/50 on it. Cannon's ability to play guard in a pinch may be the nail in MacDonald's coffin in the scenarios in which I have him on the roster. Koppen and Gallery I see either as starters, or not on the team at all. I order each scenario by highest percentage chance it occurs to lowest.
Waters AND Mankins Come Back:
Starters: Nate Solder (LT), Logan Mankins (LG), Dan Connolly (C), Brian Waters (RG), Sebastion Vollmer, (RT): Best case scenario, this is a top 5 line in football in my opinion.
Backups: Ryan Wendell (C/G), Marcus Cannon (T), Matt Kopa (T), Nick MacDonald (G/C): Cannon looks to project as the swing tackle (play left or right depending on injury) and I think they keep Kopa as insurance because of Vollmer's back/Cannons inexperience and lackluster play at times. Wendell is definitely in there as the backup Guard/Center and again the big question is MacDonald, but I think he makes in on there, but likely spends most of it on the 53 man roster, but not much of it on the 45 man game day roster.
No Waters, Mankins Back:
Starters: Nate Solder (LT), Logan Mankins (LG), Dan Koppen (C), Dan Connolly (RG), Sebastion Vollmer, (RT): This is still a solid scenario that keeps Koppen on the team for one more year and bumps Connolly out to the Right Guard spot. Connolly has apparently been one of, if not the, best lineman in camp thus far.
Backups: Ryan Wendell (C/G), Marcus Cannon (T), Matt Kopa (T), Nick MacDonald (G/C): No change
Waters Comes back, Makins Injury forces him to miss some time:
Starters: Nate Solder (LT), Robert Gallery (LG), Dan Connolly (C), Brian Waters (RG), Sebastion Vollmer, (RT): Another solid scenario here. LG takes a bigger more physical player, something that I think you are better with having Gallery at LG and Connolly at C than Connolly at LG and Koppen at C.
Backups: Ryan Wendell (C/G), Marcus Cannon (T), Matt Kopa (T), Logan Mankins (LG): From all accounts, it doesn't sound like the Pats want to go PUP with Mankins, which would mean he has to sit out 6 weeks before playing. No one seems to think it will take him that long to get back. So, you have to put him on the 53 man roster, or cut him (not happening). So, in this scenario, MacDonald is cut in lieu of Gallery.
No Waters, Makins Injury forces him to miss some time
Starters: Nate Solder (LT), Robert Gallery (LG), Dan Koppen (C), Dan Connolly (RG), Sebastion Vollmer, (RT): Worst Case scenario here. Surprisingly, still not in HORRIBLE shape, unless Vollmer injury more serious than expected, then things have potential to go downhill fast. In this scenario, the signings of Gallery and Koppen (who almost signed with the Titans) turn out to be HUGELY important.
Backups: Ryan Wendell (C/G), Marcus Cannon (T), Matt Kopa (T), Logan Mankins (LG): No change here.
Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Monday, July 30, 2012
5 Bubble Competitions
With the Roster Projection I did earlier, I figured I would circle back and go back over some of the bubble competitions for other scenarios where different players make the team.
Safety: Ebner v Allen v Barett: Circling back, this is one where I think I may have been off. Ebner hasn't been getting the reps in practice that would lead me to believe he makes this team. Also, Barrett has been practicing on all 4 1st team special teams units. This, combined with his ability to play defense (something Ebner will not be able to do this year), may give him the edge over Allen and Ebner. Thinking Allen still makes it and Ebner ends up on practice squad.
Cornerback: Marquise Cole v Malcolm Williams: This is basically the backup to the backup cornerback role, that will be almost exclusively special teams. It appears as though Williams may be getting a few more of those reps than Cole, which would give him the inside track on the roster spot.
Linebacker: Tracy White v Jeff Tarpinian: This is also going to be mostly a special teams role at linebacker. I personally hate Tracy White with a burning fiery passion and his stinker in the Super Bowl cemented that. But, he has been getting more Special Teams reps than Tarpinian, so he has that advantage. He did leave early with an injury, so that could give Tarpinian a little edge here. I am not sure how this one plays out, completely up in the air.
Defense: Ron Brace v Jermaine Cunningham: I think these two, while they play much different positions, are going after the same roster spot. They are both 2nd round picks (Brace 2009, Cunningham 2010) that have yet to live up to the spot in which they were drafted. Apparently, the two of them have both looked good, but I have heard more positives (and virtually no negatives) out of Brace, so I think he has the lead at this point.
Wide Receiver: Deion Branch v Jabar Gaffney: These two have not been on the field at the same time thus far in camp. This shows that it is an either or with them. I have heard better things out of Gaffney than Branch, but this is likely due to the fact that people are used to Branch, and are more inclined to look harder at new acquisitions. With a reduced workload (72% of snaps last year) for Branch, hopefully he can perform at a higher level this year. I personally thought Branch was done at the end of last year, so I think Gaffney makes it, but this will be one to monitor closely.
Safety: Ebner v Allen v Barett: Circling back, this is one where I think I may have been off. Ebner hasn't been getting the reps in practice that would lead me to believe he makes this team. Also, Barrett has been practicing on all 4 1st team special teams units. This, combined with his ability to play defense (something Ebner will not be able to do this year), may give him the edge over Allen and Ebner. Thinking Allen still makes it and Ebner ends up on practice squad.
Cornerback: Marquise Cole v Malcolm Williams: This is basically the backup to the backup cornerback role, that will be almost exclusively special teams. It appears as though Williams may be getting a few more of those reps than Cole, which would give him the inside track on the roster spot.
Linebacker: Tracy White v Jeff Tarpinian: This is also going to be mostly a special teams role at linebacker. I personally hate Tracy White with a burning fiery passion and his stinker in the Super Bowl cemented that. But, he has been getting more Special Teams reps than Tarpinian, so he has that advantage. He did leave early with an injury, so that could give Tarpinian a little edge here. I am not sure how this one plays out, completely up in the air.
Defense: Ron Brace v Jermaine Cunningham: I think these two, while they play much different positions, are going after the same roster spot. They are both 2nd round picks (Brace 2009, Cunningham 2010) that have yet to live up to the spot in which they were drafted. Apparently, the two of them have both looked good, but I have heard more positives (and virtually no negatives) out of Brace, so I think he has the lead at this point.
Wide Receiver: Deion Branch v Jabar Gaffney: These two have not been on the field at the same time thus far in camp. This shows that it is an either or with them. I have heard better things out of Gaffney than Branch, but this is likely due to the fact that people are used to Branch, and are more inclined to look harder at new acquisitions. With a reduced workload (72% of snaps last year) for Branch, hopefully he can perform at a higher level this year. I personally thought Branch was done at the end of last year, so I think Gaffney makes it, but this will be one to monitor closely.
Monday Roster 1.0
So I decided that first thing every Monday (yes, my schedule allows me to not wake up till noon on Monday, be jealous) until the cutdown to 53 on September 2nd, I will give my current state of the Pats roster as I see it, with a little analysis at each position. The roster limit is currently at 90, so a significant amount of the players will not be with the Pats this year. Sorry this is coming out so late, it took obnoxiously long to do, (the future ones will be much easier) and I had a lot to do today. In the future, expect these around noon on Monday.
Quarterback (3)
Tom Brady, Brian Hoyer, Ryan Mallet.
Pretty standard and obvious here. The only real battle is Mallet and Hoyer for backup, and Hoyer seems to be distancing himself.
Running Back (3)
Stephen Ridley, Danny Woodhead, Shane Vereen
3 RBs is lighter than the Patriots usually go, and there is a possibility with Vereen not making the most of his opportunity that Brandon Bolden also makes this team as the 4th RB.
Fullback (1)
Spencer Larsen
Being a little light on RB this year, and after signing two FBs in the offseason, I think they end up keeping one, and Larsen's contract is about 3X more expensive than Fiametta's, plus he has work as a linebacker and core 4 (punt, kickoff, kick return, punt return) special teams experience.
Wide Receiver (6)
Wes Welker, Brandon Lloyd, Matthew Slater, Julian Edelman, Donte Stallworth, Jabar Gaffney
I think 6 make this team, but when Fells comes back, it will likely be a competition between Shiancoe and Stallworth to see who holds on to his spot. Personally, I like the idea of carrying 4 TE's, so I could see this slimming to 5 after week 6. Gaffney and Deoin Branch battle for that 3 WR/backup to LLoyd spot and I think Gaffney wins out.
Tight End (3)
Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez, Visanthe Shiancoe.
Daniel Fells and Jake Ballard open on PUP, which means they do not count against the 53 man limit. Also, this means they cannot practice until after week 6, at which time the team has 3 weeks to either put them on IR (likely for Ballard) or move them to the active roster and cut a player (likely for Fells).
Offensive Line (9)
Nate Solder (LT), Logan Mankins (LG), Dan Connolley (C/G), Brian Waters (RG), Sebastion Vollmer, (RT), Ryan Wendell (C/G), Marcus Cannon (T), Matt Kopa (T), Nick MacDonald (G/C).
This means I think Waters comes back and Mankins knee cooperates and heals by the start of the season. I think, as do a lot of people, that Waters is just skipping camp and will be back when it really matters. Let's hope so, because if he comes back, we could have a top 5 line in football. In this scenario, the surprise cut is Robert Gallery, but I have never been very high on him, and he has apparently not looked great in the extended time he has received this preseason.
Defensive Lineman (5)
Vince Wilfork (NT, 4-3 DT, 3-4 DE), Kyle Love (NT, 4-3 DT, 3-4 DE), Brandon Deadrick (4-3 DT, 3-4 DE), Jonathon Fanane (4-3 DT, 3-4 DE), Ron Brace (4-3 DT, 3-4 DE)
Kyle Love and Brandon Deadrick both came on last year and look to have good potential, Love especially. Fanene was the offseason acquisition ($12 mil, 3 year) that comes in for Shaun Ellis dollars and has looked good in camp. Ron Brace, the BC product, would be the surprise addition to this group, as he apparently has flashed in camp.
Defensive End / Outside Linebacker (4)
Chandler Jones (4-3 DE, 3-4 OLB), Rob Ninkovich (4-3 DE, 3-4 OLB), Trevor Scott (4-3 DE, 3-4 OLB), Jake Bequette (4-3 DE)
All of these players seem like locks to me, and I don't really see any way any of these players doesn't make this team. Jones, Nink, and Scott all look to get extended playing time with Bequette coming on in pure passing downs. How much time he gets is still to be seen, but I see a lot of playing time in those first three's future.
Inside Linebacker (6)
Jerod Mayo (4-3 WLB, 3-4 MLB, 4-3 MLB, sub), Brandon Spikes (4-3 MLB, 3-4 MLB, 4-3 SLB), Donta Hightower (4-3 SLB, MLB 3-4 MLB, sub), Bobby Carpentar (sub, 4-3 WLB, Special Teams), Dane Fletcher (Special Teams, sub, 4-3 MLB, 4-3WLB, 3-4 MLB), Jeff Tarpinian (Special Teams, sub, 4-3 MLB, 4-3 WLB, 3-4 MLB)
As you can see, our linebackers have quite a lot of versatility. I think in 4-3, you see Jerod Mayo at WLB, Spikes in the middle, and Hightower at SLB. In 3-4, you have Mayo in the middle along with either Spikes or Hightower. Then, in sub, you have Mayo, Carpenter and then probably Hightower if you have a 3LB sub package. Tarpinian and Fletcher are pretty much just special teamers that will serve in backup roles.
Cornerback(5)
Ras-I Dowling, Devin McCourty, Kyle Arrington, Sterling Moore, Marquise Cole
Dowling and McCourty look to be starting on the outside with Kyle Arrington in the slot. Sterling Moore looks to be on this team as the 4th corner and special teams. Marquise Cole should never see the field on Defense, and should be specifically special teams.
Safety (5)
Patrick Chung, Steve Gregory, Tavon Wilson, Will Allen, Nate Ebner.
5 Safetys is a lot to keep, but Will Allen with his CB versatility allows them to do this. Ebner also will never see the field on Defense, but has Larry Izzo-type upside on special teams. Gregory seems to have impressed others, drawing compliments from Devin McCourty, and seems locked into that starting role opposite Chung. Tavon Wilson is that 3rd Saftey/Big Nickel LB/S hybrid.
Specialists (3)
Stepehen Gostkowski, Zoltan Mesko, Danny Aiken.
Not much to say. Kicker, Punter, Holder.
Quarterback (3)
Tom Brady, Brian Hoyer, Ryan Mallet.
Pretty standard and obvious here. The only real battle is Mallet and Hoyer for backup, and Hoyer seems to be distancing himself.
Running Back (3)
Stephen Ridley, Danny Woodhead, Shane Vereen
3 RBs is lighter than the Patriots usually go, and there is a possibility with Vereen not making the most of his opportunity that Brandon Bolden also makes this team as the 4th RB.
Fullback (1)
Spencer Larsen
Being a little light on RB this year, and after signing two FBs in the offseason, I think they end up keeping one, and Larsen's contract is about 3X more expensive than Fiametta's, plus he has work as a linebacker and core 4 (punt, kickoff, kick return, punt return) special teams experience.
Wide Receiver (6)
Wes Welker, Brandon Lloyd, Matthew Slater, Julian Edelman, Donte Stallworth, Jabar Gaffney
I think 6 make this team, but when Fells comes back, it will likely be a competition between Shiancoe and Stallworth to see who holds on to his spot. Personally, I like the idea of carrying 4 TE's, so I could see this slimming to 5 after week 6. Gaffney and Deoin Branch battle for that 3 WR/backup to LLoyd spot and I think Gaffney wins out.
Tight End (3)
Rob Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez, Visanthe Shiancoe.
Daniel Fells and Jake Ballard open on PUP, which means they do not count against the 53 man limit. Also, this means they cannot practice until after week 6, at which time the team has 3 weeks to either put them on IR (likely for Ballard) or move them to the active roster and cut a player (likely for Fells).
Offensive Line (9)
Nate Solder (LT), Logan Mankins (LG), Dan Connolley (C/G), Brian Waters (RG), Sebastion Vollmer, (RT), Ryan Wendell (C/G), Marcus Cannon (T), Matt Kopa (T), Nick MacDonald (G/C).
This means I think Waters comes back and Mankins knee cooperates and heals by the start of the season. I think, as do a lot of people, that Waters is just skipping camp and will be back when it really matters. Let's hope so, because if he comes back, we could have a top 5 line in football. In this scenario, the surprise cut is Robert Gallery, but I have never been very high on him, and he has apparently not looked great in the extended time he has received this preseason.
Defensive Lineman (5)
Vince Wilfork (NT, 4-3 DT, 3-4 DE), Kyle Love (NT, 4-3 DT, 3-4 DE), Brandon Deadrick (4-3 DT, 3-4 DE), Jonathon Fanane (4-3 DT, 3-4 DE), Ron Brace (4-3 DT, 3-4 DE)
Kyle Love and Brandon Deadrick both came on last year and look to have good potential, Love especially. Fanene was the offseason acquisition ($12 mil, 3 year) that comes in for Shaun Ellis dollars and has looked good in camp. Ron Brace, the BC product, would be the surprise addition to this group, as he apparently has flashed in camp.
Defensive End / Outside Linebacker (4)
Chandler Jones (4-3 DE, 3-4 OLB), Rob Ninkovich (4-3 DE, 3-4 OLB), Trevor Scott (4-3 DE, 3-4 OLB), Jake Bequette (4-3 DE)
All of these players seem like locks to me, and I don't really see any way any of these players doesn't make this team. Jones, Nink, and Scott all look to get extended playing time with Bequette coming on in pure passing downs. How much time he gets is still to be seen, but I see a lot of playing time in those first three's future.
Inside Linebacker (6)
Jerod Mayo (4-3 WLB, 3-4 MLB, 4-3 MLB, sub), Brandon Spikes (4-3 MLB, 3-4 MLB, 4-3 SLB), Donta Hightower (4-3 SLB, MLB 3-4 MLB, sub), Bobby Carpentar (sub, 4-3 WLB, Special Teams), Dane Fletcher (Special Teams, sub, 4-3 MLB, 4-3WLB, 3-4 MLB), Jeff Tarpinian (Special Teams, sub, 4-3 MLB, 4-3 WLB, 3-4 MLB)
As you can see, our linebackers have quite a lot of versatility. I think in 4-3, you see Jerod Mayo at WLB, Spikes in the middle, and Hightower at SLB. In 3-4, you have Mayo in the middle along with either Spikes or Hightower. Then, in sub, you have Mayo, Carpenter and then probably Hightower if you have a 3LB sub package. Tarpinian and Fletcher are pretty much just special teamers that will serve in backup roles.
Cornerback(5)
Ras-I Dowling, Devin McCourty, Kyle Arrington, Sterling Moore, Marquise Cole
Dowling and McCourty look to be starting on the outside with Kyle Arrington in the slot. Sterling Moore looks to be on this team as the 4th corner and special teams. Marquise Cole should never see the field on Defense, and should be specifically special teams.
Safety (5)
Patrick Chung, Steve Gregory, Tavon Wilson, Will Allen, Nate Ebner.
5 Safetys is a lot to keep, but Will Allen with his CB versatility allows them to do this. Ebner also will never see the field on Defense, but has Larry Izzo-type upside on special teams. Gregory seems to have impressed others, drawing compliments from Devin McCourty, and seems locked into that starting role opposite Chung. Tavon Wilson is that 3rd Saftey/Big Nickel LB/S hybrid.
Specialists (3)
Stepehen Gostkowski, Zoltan Mesko, Danny Aiken.
Not much to say. Kicker, Punter, Holder.
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Weekend Wrap-Up
Hey guys. Unfortunately, I have some semblance of a life so I didn't really get much time to write any blogs, but I kept up on my twitter game for yallz. I went to camp today, but honestly, I had a shit view and learned more from the reporters that are right on top of the players.
-Ridley Impresses: Ridley has been getting most all of the first team reps for Brady and is on track to get most of the 34% of the snaps that BJGE left behind. I loved Ridley last year, and I think he can become a beast this year. The one disappointment in this whole development has been Vereen, who many had high hopes for this year. He has basically been splitting reps with undrafted rookie Brandon Bolden, which is not a great sign. This has led me to believe that there is a higher chance Bolden makes the team this year. I initially gave him a 25% chance to make the team, and it may be up to 50% at this time. I was hoping for a breakout season for Vereen and it looks like that may be another 2nd round miss for Belichick. The 2nd round has been very volatile for Belichick, with huge hits like Gronkowski, Chung, and Vollmer, and huge misses like Darius Butler, Chad Jackson, and Terrence Wheatley.
-Brandon Lloyd Looking Like a Game-Changer: The pickup of Lloyd was widely regarded as one of the best pickups of the offseason, and hasn't disappointed thus far in camp. He has hooked up on multiple deep TD passes with Tom Brady and the two have been seen in between reps working together. He has made some incredible catches in traffic, even tipping a ball nearly off the grass and back into his hands. He is going to be a nice outside threat to compliment the multitude of inside forces we have with Welker and Hernandez and Gronk and Co. His rapport with McDaniels (the new OC) in Denver and then St. Louis has shown as he seems to be quick to pick up the offense.
-1st Rounders Looking Good: Both Donta Hightower and Chandler Jones have been getting a solid amount of first team reps thus far in training camp. Hightower looks to be solid in the 4-3 as the strong side line backer. Basically, this is the linebacker that lines up opposite the TE, or whichever side has the most personell. He has also been starting to take some of Bobby Carpenter's reps in the sub package as one of the two or three linebackers (Mayo also figures to play most all of the snaps in sub) in there. He has potential to grab 75% plus of the snaps as a rookie, something we have really only seen out of Jerod Mayo in the Bill Belichick era. With Ninkovich not participating, Chandler Jones got most all of the first team reps and had some explosive plays. He came off the edge with a couple good moves, but was also stymied at times. He has been living up to the expectation of having a lot of potential, but still putting it all together.
-Offensive Line Issues: The offensive line situation is a little fluid right now. Sebastian Vollmer, the projected RT and 2010 2nd team All-Pro is still coming back from back injuries and has not participated thus far. Logan Makins, the All-Pro left guard, $51 million dollar man, is still recovering from off-season knee surgery and also hasn't participated. Then there is RG Brian Waters, who has yet to report to training camp. He was an Pro Bowler last year and has been an All-Pro earlier in his career, and many have speculated as to whether he is retiring or not. There has also been a train of though that he just merely is trying to save his body and does not want to come to camp. Once camp ends, he may end up coming in and reclaiming that starting spot, but no one quite knows yet. Dan Connelly has apparently been looking like the best lineman on the team, and I'm sure the Pats are happy about that given that they gave him a 3 year $9.7 million dollar contract. The true weak link here I think is Sebastian Vollmer, because the apparent swing tackle (the backup that can play both RT and LT in case of a few week injury) Marcus Cannon, has looked very bad. I have never been sold on him as a tackle and think he best projects to guard. If Vollmer comes back, then as long as we get one of the two of Waters or Mankins back, we can put Dan Koppen (starting Center since 2003) back at Center and then slide Connelly to whatever guard spot is needed. I think we should be good here, but the development of Nate Solder, along with the health of Mankins is crucial to keeping Tom Brady upright.
-Ridley Impresses: Ridley has been getting most all of the first team reps for Brady and is on track to get most of the 34% of the snaps that BJGE left behind. I loved Ridley last year, and I think he can become a beast this year. The one disappointment in this whole development has been Vereen, who many had high hopes for this year. He has basically been splitting reps with undrafted rookie Brandon Bolden, which is not a great sign. This has led me to believe that there is a higher chance Bolden makes the team this year. I initially gave him a 25% chance to make the team, and it may be up to 50% at this time. I was hoping for a breakout season for Vereen and it looks like that may be another 2nd round miss for Belichick. The 2nd round has been very volatile for Belichick, with huge hits like Gronkowski, Chung, and Vollmer, and huge misses like Darius Butler, Chad Jackson, and Terrence Wheatley.
-Brandon Lloyd Looking Like a Game-Changer: The pickup of Lloyd was widely regarded as one of the best pickups of the offseason, and hasn't disappointed thus far in camp. He has hooked up on multiple deep TD passes with Tom Brady and the two have been seen in between reps working together. He has made some incredible catches in traffic, even tipping a ball nearly off the grass and back into his hands. He is going to be a nice outside threat to compliment the multitude of inside forces we have with Welker and Hernandez and Gronk and Co. His rapport with McDaniels (the new OC) in Denver and then St. Louis has shown as he seems to be quick to pick up the offense.
-1st Rounders Looking Good: Both Donta Hightower and Chandler Jones have been getting a solid amount of first team reps thus far in training camp. Hightower looks to be solid in the 4-3 as the strong side line backer. Basically, this is the linebacker that lines up opposite the TE, or whichever side has the most personell. He has also been starting to take some of Bobby Carpenter's reps in the sub package as one of the two or three linebackers (Mayo also figures to play most all of the snaps in sub) in there. He has potential to grab 75% plus of the snaps as a rookie, something we have really only seen out of Jerod Mayo in the Bill Belichick era. With Ninkovich not participating, Chandler Jones got most all of the first team reps and had some explosive plays. He came off the edge with a couple good moves, but was also stymied at times. He has been living up to the expectation of having a lot of potential, but still putting it all together.
-Offensive Line Issues: The offensive line situation is a little fluid right now. Sebastian Vollmer, the projected RT and 2010 2nd team All-Pro is still coming back from back injuries and has not participated thus far. Logan Makins, the All-Pro left guard, $51 million dollar man, is still recovering from off-season knee surgery and also hasn't participated. Then there is RG Brian Waters, who has yet to report to training camp. He was an Pro Bowler last year and has been an All-Pro earlier in his career, and many have speculated as to whether he is retiring or not. There has also been a train of though that he just merely is trying to save his body and does not want to come to camp. Once camp ends, he may end up coming in and reclaiming that starting spot, but no one quite knows yet. Dan Connelly has apparently been looking like the best lineman on the team, and I'm sure the Pats are happy about that given that they gave him a 3 year $9.7 million dollar contract. The true weak link here I think is Sebastian Vollmer, because the apparent swing tackle (the backup that can play both RT and LT in case of a few week injury) Marcus Cannon, has looked very bad. I have never been sold on him as a tackle and think he best projects to guard. If Vollmer comes back, then as long as we get one of the two of Waters or Mankins back, we can put Dan Koppen (starting Center since 2003) back at Center and then slide Connelly to whatever guard spot is needed. I think we should be good here, but the development of Nate Solder, along with the health of Mankins is crucial to keeping Tom Brady upright.
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Player Spotlight - Bobby Carpenter
Today is the start of a new little miniseries I am going to do where I delve in on one particular player, chosen at random. Aka, whoever I feel like talking about. I will give some basic background info, their contract, where they can help this team, and their chances of making the team. After a lot of people have been talking about Bobby Carpenter, we wil start with him today.
Background Info: He was the 18th pick in the '06 draft by the Cowboys coming out of Ohio State. He was quite a disappointment (96 tackles in 4 years) as he never really managed to carve out a starting role in D-town. He was pretty much used as a backup nickel (coverage) linebacker. He was picked up and cut by a few teams in 2010, finally ending up with the Lions midway through the season. He stuck on with them again last year, before coming to NE this year.
Contract: 50k signing, 25k workout bonus. 700k base salary. So, those bonuses, he has already earned, if they cut him before the season, that 700k is off the books and he gets none of it. Small contract, so he has made it so economics will not play any part in whether he makes this team, just his play.
Where He Can Help This Team: It sounds as though Carpenter has been getting a lot of first team reps. He is mostly going to be the nickel linebacker. A nickel linebacker comes in on obvious passing situations. In this, you have 4 Defensive Lineman, 2 coverage linebackers, and 5 defensive backs. There is also the 3-3-5 nickel. He will also likely play in dime (6 defensive backs). All of these are known as "sub defenses". He likely will not see any time in base defense (4 DBs) 3-4, or 4-3, whichever they run this year (probably a little of both). His best chance would be in the 4-3, but I don't see it with Mayo, Spikes, and Hightower all apparently ahead of him. Since the Pats were in sub 57% of snaps on defense last year, you can see how he has a nice shot at getting some solid playing time. He will basically fill the role they hoped Gary Guyton could, and the one Tracy White butchered in the Super Bowl.
Chances of Making This Team: His biggest competition is going to be with Jeff Tarpinian, Tracy White, and Dane Fletcher. I think maybe two of that group make the team, and the rest of those guys have special teams versatility. I am not sure what their plans are for him in special teams, but he will likely need to be on a unit or two in order to secure a roster spot. From all accounts though, he seems to be ahead of all those guys, and by a long shot. He has looked fast, crisp and Belichick seems to like him, so I am giving him 95% to make the roster. I think he is on there. We need a solid "sub" linebacker to help our 3rd down percentage (43.1%, 28th in the league), and hopefully, Bobby Carpenter is that.
Background Info: He was the 18th pick in the '06 draft by the Cowboys coming out of Ohio State. He was quite a disappointment (96 tackles in 4 years) as he never really managed to carve out a starting role in D-town. He was pretty much used as a backup nickel (coverage) linebacker. He was picked up and cut by a few teams in 2010, finally ending up with the Lions midway through the season. He stuck on with them again last year, before coming to NE this year.
Contract: 50k signing, 25k workout bonus. 700k base salary. So, those bonuses, he has already earned, if they cut him before the season, that 700k is off the books and he gets none of it. Small contract, so he has made it so economics will not play any part in whether he makes this team, just his play.
Where He Can Help This Team: It sounds as though Carpenter has been getting a lot of first team reps. He is mostly going to be the nickel linebacker. A nickel linebacker comes in on obvious passing situations. In this, you have 4 Defensive Lineman, 2 coverage linebackers, and 5 defensive backs. There is also the 3-3-5 nickel. He will also likely play in dime (6 defensive backs). All of these are known as "sub defenses". He likely will not see any time in base defense (4 DBs) 3-4, or 4-3, whichever they run this year (probably a little of both). His best chance would be in the 4-3, but I don't see it with Mayo, Spikes, and Hightower all apparently ahead of him. Since the Pats were in sub 57% of snaps on defense last year, you can see how he has a nice shot at getting some solid playing time. He will basically fill the role they hoped Gary Guyton could, and the one Tracy White butchered in the Super Bowl.
Chances of Making This Team: His biggest competition is going to be with Jeff Tarpinian, Tracy White, and Dane Fletcher. I think maybe two of that group make the team, and the rest of those guys have special teams versatility. I am not sure what their plans are for him in special teams, but he will likely need to be on a unit or two in order to secure a roster spot. From all accounts though, he seems to be ahead of all those guys, and by a long shot. He has looked fast, crisp and Belichick seems to like him, so I am giving him 95% to make the roster. I think he is on there. We need a solid "sub" linebacker to help our 3rd down percentage (43.1%, 28th in the league), and hopefully, Bobby Carpenter is that.
Friday, July 27, 2012
Day 2 in the Books - Dennard Injury
So...7th round pick Alfonso Dennard... He of the punching the cop, assault and battery against a police officer, accused felon, appears to have left practice with a hamstring injury. If this injury is serious, I don't see him making it out of camp with that charge going against him. He was supposed to be a 2nd/3rd round talent and some said he was better than Prince Amukamura (Giants 1st rounder last year) when the two were at Nebraska together. But, with a hamstring injury (often a sign of being out of shape) coupled with this charge he is facing, and he will be lucky to even make the practice squad at this point. Another thing that caught my eye, Hernandez taking punts. I am a little torn on this one. He may be my favorite player on the Pats (yes I have his rookie year jersey #85) and I think he would kill it on punt returns, but the injury factor is worrisome as we do not really have anyone on the roster that can replicate what he brings to the table. Heard it was an off day, as the team didn't look as sharp as yesterday. In my opinion, this is expected as they are all likely a little sore. Once they get into the grind, things should start to shape up. As expected, things at CB are starting to shape up with McCourty and Dowling on the outside, and Arrington in the slot. I think Sterling Moore still deserves to make this team as the 4th corner after what we saw out of him last year (great ball skills) and there should be a spot for him. He should be a solid spot starter for any injuries that crop up (please not you Ras-I) and our secondary could be looking much better. However, I had that same thought last year and well...uh...they...were ok?
AFC East Rivals - Bills
Today is part 2 of a 3 part miniseries where I delve in on the AFC East rivals. Today is the Buffalo Bills.
Overview: The Bills finished off last year with a 6-10 record, good for last in the AFC East. They got off to a hot start at 5-2 and won the Week 3 Super Bowl against the pats that had them crowned as a new threat in the AFC. Alas, the way only the Bills can, they plummeted to the cellar like a ton a bricks. With thegross overpaying signing of Mario Williams, Bills fans have hope once again (don't they always?) that this can be the season they finally be in contention. Will that happen? Well....
Expectations: They overpaid Mario Williams and Mark Anderson, picked up Stephon Gilmore (solid) and Gordy Glenn (even though they are going to have him play LT when everyone else in the league said he was a RT/G) in the draft. Analysts and Bills fans are very excited and think they have a chance to challenge the Pats this year. Personally, I'm in a I'll-believe-it-when-I-see-it with the Bills. Fitzpatrick got paid ($59 mil/4yr 24 guaranteed) and then sucked (14 TD 7 picks before, 10 TD 16 picks after) and somehow everyone thinks he is magically going to be good this year? I don't see it. They picked up Williams, who is legit, although overpaid, but the Anderson signing doesn't do anything for me. I watched him a lot last year (obviously) and he had the quietest 10 sacks of all time. He basically was Tully Banta-Cain (10 sacks in 2010) and he is no longer in the league. They picked him up to be their full time DE after he played in a pass rushing specialist last year (the only role he has ever thrived in) and spent $7.9 mil guaranteed on a 4 year $19.5 million dollar deal. Sounds like trouble.
Predictions: I do think Mario Williams makes them a win or two better than last year, and Gilmore definitely can't hurt their secondary. But, I do not see them making this quantum leap everyone says they are going to make. They got better on defense (look for Marcell Dareus to be a force in his 2nd year), and maybe when Fred Jackson comes back and they have CJ spiller they can get a little better on offense, but I think Fitzy limits them. The whole season hinges on his arm and his ability to take that next leap, I don't see it though. I give them a solid 8-8, and just because the AFC East appears really down this year and they should get at least 3 out of 4 against the Jets/Dolphins.
What they have to do to scare me: Fitzpatrick makes the leap to the top 10 top 5 caliber he showed at the beginning of last year. That vaunted defensive line of Dareus, Williams, Anderson, and Kyle Williams comes through and dominates and their secondary improves to make them a top 10 defense. It is possible, and the biggest thing is Fitzpatrick, which is why I say this season hinges on his arm.
Overview: The Bills finished off last year with a 6-10 record, good for last in the AFC East. They got off to a hot start at 5-2 and won the Week 3 Super Bowl against the pats that had them crowned as a new threat in the AFC. Alas, the way only the Bills can, they plummeted to the cellar like a ton a bricks. With the
Expectations: They overpaid Mario Williams and Mark Anderson, picked up Stephon Gilmore (solid) and Gordy Glenn (even though they are going to have him play LT when everyone else in the league said he was a RT/G) in the draft. Analysts and Bills fans are very excited and think they have a chance to challenge the Pats this year. Personally, I'm in a I'll-believe-it-when-I-see-it with the Bills. Fitzpatrick got paid ($59 mil/4yr 24 guaranteed) and then sucked (14 TD 7 picks before, 10 TD 16 picks after) and somehow everyone thinks he is magically going to be good this year? I don't see it. They picked up Williams, who is legit, although overpaid, but the Anderson signing doesn't do anything for me. I watched him a lot last year (obviously) and he had the quietest 10 sacks of all time. He basically was Tully Banta-Cain (10 sacks in 2010) and he is no longer in the league. They picked him up to be their full time DE after he played in a pass rushing specialist last year (the only role he has ever thrived in) and spent $7.9 mil guaranteed on a 4 year $19.5 million dollar deal. Sounds like trouble.
Predictions: I do think Mario Williams makes them a win or two better than last year, and Gilmore definitely can't hurt their secondary. But, I do not see them making this quantum leap everyone says they are going to make. They got better on defense (look for Marcell Dareus to be a force in his 2nd year), and maybe when Fred Jackson comes back and they have CJ spiller they can get a little better on offense, but I think Fitzy limits them. The whole season hinges on his arm and his ability to take that next leap, I don't see it though. I give them a solid 8-8, and just because the AFC East appears really down this year and they should get at least 3 out of 4 against the Jets/Dolphins.
What they have to do to scare me: Fitzpatrick makes the leap to the top 10 top 5 caliber he showed at the beginning of last year. That vaunted defensive line of Dareus, Williams, Anderson, and Kyle Williams comes through and dominates and their secondary improves to make them a top 10 defense. It is possible, and the biggest thing is Fitzpatrick, which is why I say this season hinges on his arm.
Position Overview - Safety
Another installment of the Position Overview blog. With the news coming out of camp that Will Allen took all of his snaps at safety, we are going to go with the Safetys today. Jersey number in quotes.
Patrick Chung (25): Bona fide number 1. Can he make the leap this year? He played nearly 100% of the snaps in the games he appeared in and looks to have the potential to be a top flight safety. More of a Strong Safety, than a Free Safety, but is still solid in coverage. Only had 1 Sack, 1 interception and no Forced Fumbles. Those are probably three of the most important impact stats. Those numbers are not good. Those are three categories I will be monitoring closely this season. If he wants to get paid in line with the top Safetys in the league (around 8 mil per year) he will need to improve his playmaking.
Steve Gregory (28): New face, played with the Chargers last year. A little older at 29, but should still have a few years in him. Signed a 3 year 8.5 million dollar deal that screams STARTING DOLLARS to me. He played out of position opposite Weddle last year as more of a Strong Safety. His skills seem to be more suited to playing more of a Free Safety roamer, but he can still pack a punch. 67 tackles and a pick last year. Hopefully playing more Free Safety, he can improve on those numbers in the interception category and provide a solid last line of defense behind our young corners.
Tavon Wilson (27): Our 2nd round pick that many had tabbed as a mid-late round pick. He has been getting a lot of reps and is a bigger safety who many have speculated will play a 3rd safety/linebacker role in a "Big Nickel" package. (Great read on Big Nickel here) He started 38 consecutive games in college, so is durable, which is something we have had trouble getting out of our Safetys in recent years. Not much on him, but hopefully he can fulfill his potential and make the 2nd round reach worth it. If you recall, the last time we had a huge second round reach was Seabass and we all now how that turned out (2nd team All-Pro).
James Ihedigbo (44): Mostly a special teams player. If everything breaks right, he should not make this team. He is a solid guy, prototypical Patriot, but I saw him get burned waaaaaay too many times last year to want him getting a lot of snaps at safety.
Will Allen (26): 12 year vet from the Dolphins. He is trying to make the switch from Corner to Safety late in his career. Depending on how that switch goes, I could see him sticking around here. Belicichick loves to have an old guy in young meeting rooms (ie. Crumpler when we drafted Gronk/Hernandez) so that is a possibility. I think his biggest competition here is going to be Josh Barett, fighting for that 4th Safety spot.
Josh Barrett (45): This is a real make or break year for Barrett. If you do not remember, we snagged him from the Broncos the same way we just did with Ballard from the Giants. He has spent the last two years pretty much on the IR. He needs to show he can stay healthy, but obvious has talent, or Belichick wouldn't have grabbed him. He has some good special teams versatility and in my mind should have the inside track for that 4th Safety spot.
Sergio Brown (31): GTFO my team please. Thank you. That is all.
Nate Ebner (43): Watch this immediately and you will understand my mancrush on Nate Ebner. He was a 6th roudner out of Ohio State. He just started playing football a few years ago and projects only to special teams this year, with the hope that he can develop into a competent safety. Mike Vrabel, now the LB coach at Ohio State gave him a vote of confidence and hopes he can develop into a Larry Izzo type player. Count me in on those who hope that too. He is definitely on the bubble here, and is probably more likely to end up on practice squad than anything, but want to see this crazy person run down the field at 100 miles an hour and knock some fuckers out bountygate style.
Ross Ventrone (35): I love the guy, but don't see how fits in here. He is pretty much special teams only, and we have a lot of special teamers this year it seems. Barring a major run of injuries, don't see him sticking here. I have a feeling the two will move on from each other and I hope he latches on with another team because he was a standup guy last year. At the very least, he has left us with a new term "Ventrone'd" that will live on forever.
Patrick Chung (25): Bona fide number 1. Can he make the leap this year? He played nearly 100% of the snaps in the games he appeared in and looks to have the potential to be a top flight safety. More of a Strong Safety, than a Free Safety, but is still solid in coverage. Only had 1 Sack, 1 interception and no Forced Fumbles. Those are probably three of the most important impact stats. Those numbers are not good. Those are three categories I will be monitoring closely this season. If he wants to get paid in line with the top Safetys in the league (around 8 mil per year) he will need to improve his playmaking.
Steve Gregory (28): New face, played with the Chargers last year. A little older at 29, but should still have a few years in him. Signed a 3 year 8.5 million dollar deal that screams STARTING DOLLARS to me. He played out of position opposite Weddle last year as more of a Strong Safety. His skills seem to be more suited to playing more of a Free Safety roamer, but he can still pack a punch. 67 tackles and a pick last year. Hopefully playing more Free Safety, he can improve on those numbers in the interception category and provide a solid last line of defense behind our young corners.
Tavon Wilson (27): Our 2nd round pick that many had tabbed as a mid-late round pick. He has been getting a lot of reps and is a bigger safety who many have speculated will play a 3rd safety/linebacker role in a "Big Nickel" package. (Great read on Big Nickel here) He started 38 consecutive games in college, so is durable, which is something we have had trouble getting out of our Safetys in recent years. Not much on him, but hopefully he can fulfill his potential and make the 2nd round reach worth it. If you recall, the last time we had a huge second round reach was Seabass and we all now how that turned out (2nd team All-Pro).
James Ihedigbo (44): Mostly a special teams player. If everything breaks right, he should not make this team. He is a solid guy, prototypical Patriot, but I saw him get burned waaaaaay too many times last year to want him getting a lot of snaps at safety.
Will Allen (26): 12 year vet from the Dolphins. He is trying to make the switch from Corner to Safety late in his career. Depending on how that switch goes, I could see him sticking around here. Belicichick loves to have an old guy in young meeting rooms (ie. Crumpler when we drafted Gronk/Hernandez) so that is a possibility. I think his biggest competition here is going to be Josh Barett, fighting for that 4th Safety spot.
Josh Barrett (45): This is a real make or break year for Barrett. If you do not remember, we snagged him from the Broncos the same way we just did with Ballard from the Giants. He has spent the last two years pretty much on the IR. He needs to show he can stay healthy, but obvious has talent, or Belichick wouldn't have grabbed him. He has some good special teams versatility and in my mind should have the inside track for that 4th Safety spot.
Sergio Brown (31): GTFO my team please. Thank you. That is all.
Nate Ebner (43): Watch this immediately and you will understand my mancrush on Nate Ebner. He was a 6th roudner out of Ohio State. He just started playing football a few years ago and projects only to special teams this year, with the hope that he can develop into a competent safety. Mike Vrabel, now the LB coach at Ohio State gave him a vote of confidence and hopes he can develop into a Larry Izzo type player. Count me in on those who hope that too. He is definitely on the bubble here, and is probably more likely to end up on practice squad than anything, but want to see this crazy person run down the field at 100 miles an hour and knock some fuckers out bountygate style.
Ross Ventrone (35): I love the guy, but don't see how fits in here. He is pretty much special teams only, and we have a lot of special teamers this year it seems. Barring a major run of injuries, don't see him sticking here. I have a feeling the two will move on from each other and I hope he latches on with another team because he was a standup guy last year. At the very least, he has left us with a new term "Ventrone'd" that will live on forever.
Welker Contract Talk. Wilfork Skinny(er). Links
So, as per my post yesterday, camp was fairly unentertaining and a lot of the talk surrounded Welker and his contract and Wilfork looking skinnier. Welker said all the right things, as expected, and from the sounds of it, it doesn't seem like he really ever expected a long term deal. He is taking this the right way and will be taking those 9.4 million reasons to the bank. And the question everyone is now asking is if he will be back next year. Personally, I think it is waaay to early at this point and I don't think anyone knows the answer to this. If we moved on after this year, I wouldn't hate it, but I would hate paying him 8 plus million per year on a multi-year deal as some have suggested we should. As for Wilfork slimming down, I think this shows that they are planning on him continuing to be a 3 down player like he was last year. Slimming down allows him to play the DT position in the 4-3 and sub, as well DE in the 3-4. I think they like Kyle Love at NT in the 3-4 and then they will switch between Love and Jonathan Fanene as the other DT in the 4-3 and sub.
ESPN Boston: Mike Reiss Chat | What Makes a Successful Camp | Camp Observations Day 1 | Role Change Players for Pats
Pats Pulpit: Day One Notes | Wide Receiver Preview
CSNNE: Wilfork Slimmer |
ESPN Boston: Mike Reiss Chat | What Makes a Successful Camp | Camp Observations Day 1 | Role Change Players for Pats
Pats Pulpit: Day One Notes | Wide Receiver Preview
CSNNE: Wilfork Slimmer |
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Boring Day of Camp
Pretty pissed at today. First day of media availability and the beat has been pretty quiet. Gronk made a big catch, but apparently the big development has been Tavon Wilson. He was getting a lot of reps. As you all remember, he was the 2nd round pick most (but not Belichick) had ranked as a mid to late rounder. Obviously, Belichick didn't feel the same as the rest of the league and thinks he is going to be the "big nickel" safety. Basically, he is the 3rd safety that should get a lot of playing time (I'm guessing around 40% of snaps). If he can warrant that 2nd round pick and some other things break our way, we could have a top 10 secondary. This may be the homer in me speaking, but I think our secondary was overratedly bad last year, and with Ras-I comin back and the additions we've made, I think we can be solid. All in al, boring ass day of camp; hope tomorrow is better.
Position Overview - Running Back
Another little miniseries I have in the works here is an overview position by position. With the recent release of Joe Addai, we are going to start with the Running Backs.
I like our Running Backs overall. Very young, but Woodhead gives them that young veteran (oxy moron) presence and I expect a FB (Larsen) to be joining them in the meeting room. I could see them adding another veteran, but more than likely I think they stick with what they got.
Stephen Ridley: Loved what I saw out of him last year. Has a little Corey Dillon in him. He can run it right down your face one play, then take the right stick and juke you out of your shorts the next. That game against the Raiders (10 carries, 97 yards and a T) last year was definitely his highlight, and hopefully he can put up a few more games like that this year. In my opinion, he should have the inside track to get a lot of the Law Firm's carries (took about 1/3 of snaps at RB) and should lead the team in carries. The main thing holding him back is fumbles. He had 2 critical fumbles late last year, and seemed to lose the confidence of the coaching staff. If he can put that behind him, then I think he could put up a great season nearing 1,000 yards.
Shane Vereen: Vereen is the wildcard in here. The 2nd round pick in the 2011 draft, he has yet to really see the field due to injuries and then never gaining the confiidence of the coaching staff. He is BY FAR our most talented player at this position, and everyone that saw him last year before his injury in camp said he was the fastest player on the field. He has been mis-cast as a 3rd down back because he has great hands (averaged 25 catches/year at Cal), but his ceiling is Ray Rice. I don't think he gets there, but I think he can be a solid back this year. If he ends up getting the majority of the snaps at RB, I will be more than happy, because that will mean he is coming close to reaching that potential.
Danny Woodhead: Solid dude all around. He's not going to wow you, but he'll get in there with his bucket and shovel and give you a solid 50 yard running 50 yard receiving game every once in a while. Great 3rd down type guy. Only averaged about 5 carries and a reception per fame last year and I don't expect those numbers to go up too much, especially if Vereen improves as we all hope. Oversll not as talented as the other guys in this group, but you know what you are getting with him.
Brandon Bolden: Not gonna lie, I don't know much about the undrafted rookie out of Ole Miss. He has obviously been getting the BJGE comparisons because of that, and I'm sure he hopes he can be as successful with the Pats. His running style apparently lends itself well to the Pats with its downhill nature and he did rush for 1000 yards as a junior in the SEC , so there is some potential there. I personally don't see room on the roster for him, but I'd give it about 25% he makes it on there.
I like our Running Backs overall. Very young, but Woodhead gives them that young veteran (oxy moron) presence and I expect a FB (Larsen) to be joining them in the meeting room. I could see them adding another veteran, but more than likely I think they stick with what they got.
Stephen Ridley: Loved what I saw out of him last year. Has a little Corey Dillon in him. He can run it right down your face one play, then take the right stick and juke you out of your shorts the next. That game against the Raiders (10 carries, 97 yards and a T) last year was definitely his highlight, and hopefully he can put up a few more games like that this year. In my opinion, he should have the inside track to get a lot of the Law Firm's carries (took about 1/3 of snaps at RB) and should lead the team in carries. The main thing holding him back is fumbles. He had 2 critical fumbles late last year, and seemed to lose the confidence of the coaching staff. If he can put that behind him, then I think he could put up a great season nearing 1,000 yards.
Shane Vereen: Vereen is the wildcard in here. The 2nd round pick in the 2011 draft, he has yet to really see the field due to injuries and then never gaining the confiidence of the coaching staff. He is BY FAR our most talented player at this position, and everyone that saw him last year before his injury in camp said he was the fastest player on the field. He has been mis-cast as a 3rd down back because he has great hands (averaged 25 catches/year at Cal), but his ceiling is Ray Rice. I don't think he gets there, but I think he can be a solid back this year. If he ends up getting the majority of the snaps at RB, I will be more than happy, because that will mean he is coming close to reaching that potential.
Danny Woodhead: Solid dude all around. He's not going to wow you, but he'll get in there with his bucket and shovel and give you a solid 50 yard running 50 yard receiving game every once in a while. Great 3rd down type guy. Only averaged about 5 carries and a reception per fame last year and I don't expect those numbers to go up too much, especially if Vereen improves as we all hope. Oversll not as talented as the other guys in this group, but you know what you are getting with him.
Brandon Bolden: Not gonna lie, I don't know much about the undrafted rookie out of Ole Miss. He has obviously been getting the BJGE comparisons because of that, and I'm sure he hopes he can be as successful with the Pats. His running style apparently lends itself well to the Pats with its downhill nature and he did rush for 1000 yards as a junior in the SEC , so there is some potential there. I personally don't see room on the roster for him, but I'd give it about 25% he makes it on there.
Training Camp - 5 Players I Want to Hear About
So, today is the first day of media availability at Gilette. Reports will start to trickle out about certain players flashing or looking bad, or whatever. Here are the players I want to hear about and why.
Chandler Jones: Obvious. 1st pick. Potential All Star. Next Willie McGinest. In minicamps we didn't hear much about him because lets be real, WTF is a DE going to show in minicamps? Now, with some contact, I want to start to hear some things about him. Good things; unless its him burning Solder (yes, I may be the only one worried about Solder, but thats a story for another time) and getting a sack. Want to see some of this potential.
Ryan Mallet: Loved the pick last year. Total Bellichick guy. Is he the heir to Brady? Is he going to take over the backup spot from Hoyer? Kid's got all the talent in the world, I want to see some of that flash this pre-season. Hopefully, with a strong progression, we got another late QB steal.
Alfonso Dennard: Legal problems aside, people say he was better than Amukamora when they were both at Nebraska. He was someone we heard some good things about in minicamps with some nice breaks on balls and showing some signs of being a playmaking corner. This is something we have been lacking, and thought we had in McCourty, and anytime a 7th rounder has a chance to be a starter, I wanna hear about it.
Nate Solder: I'm scared....Moving on.
Steven Gregory: Seems to be a forgotten man here in New England. His signing went under the radar, but he should be an important piece of this Defense. He is more of a Free Safety to Chung's Strong Safety, but was playing out of position last year aside Weedle in San Diego. If he can come in and play solid D, he can do a lot to shore up our secondary, especially if we get anything out of McCourty (which I'm not counting on).
Chandler Jones: Obvious. 1st pick. Potential All Star. Next Willie McGinest. In minicamps we didn't hear much about him because lets be real, WTF is a DE going to show in minicamps? Now, with some contact, I want to start to hear some things about him. Good things; unless its him burning Solder (yes, I may be the only one worried about Solder, but thats a story for another time) and getting a sack. Want to see some of this potential.
Ryan Mallet: Loved the pick last year. Total Bellichick guy. Is he the heir to Brady? Is he going to take over the backup spot from Hoyer? Kid's got all the talent in the world, I want to see some of that flash this pre-season. Hopefully, with a strong progression, we got another late QB steal.
Alfonso Dennard: Legal problems aside, people say he was better than Amukamora when they were both at Nebraska. He was someone we heard some good things about in minicamps with some nice breaks on balls and showing some signs of being a playmaking corner. This is something we have been lacking, and thought we had in McCourty, and anytime a 7th rounder has a chance to be a starter, I wanna hear about it.
Nate Solder: I'm scared....Moving on.
Steven Gregory: Seems to be a forgotten man here in New England. His signing went under the radar, but he should be an important piece of this Defense. He is more of a Free Safety to Chung's Strong Safety, but was playing out of position last year aside Weedle in San Diego. If he can come in and play solid D, he can do a lot to shore up our secondary, especially if we get anything out of McCourty (which I'm not counting on).
Gronk Reality Show Dream to Come True?
Forbes: Rob Gronkowski Signs With William Morris Endeavor To Develop Reality TV Show
YES YES YES YES!!!!!!!!!!! All of my dreams are coming true. The fact that we do not currently have a Gronk reality show was shaking my belief in America. This is going to be awesome. For the people that think this is going to take away from his game, it won't. Gronk is a meathead to the core, and will never stop working out. Dude is crazy in the head. His fun consists of lifting more than his brothers, going on 8 hour workout benders, this reality show isn't going to change this. I don't know what else to say other than, GRONK NATION BABY!!!! Or the tried and true, "It's Gronk's world, we're just living in it."....
.....I can't wait to see Gronk squirrel on girls.
YES YES YES YES!!!!!!!!!!! All of my dreams are coming true. The fact that we do not currently have a Gronk reality show was shaking my belief in America. This is going to be awesome. For the people that think this is going to take away from his game, it won't. Gronk is a meathead to the core, and will never stop working out. Dude is crazy in the head. His fun consists of lifting more than his brothers, going on 8 hour workout benders, this reality show isn't going to change this. I don't know what else to say other than, GRONK NATION BABY!!!! Or the tried and true, "It's Gronk's world, we're just living in it."....
.....I can't wait to see Gronk squirrel on girls.
Pats issue Andre Carter's #93
So this looks like its the final nail in the Andre Carter coffin. I had been holding out hope all summer that he would somehow recover from that horrific quad injury (he said he had to re-learn how to walk) and sign with the Pats once training camp opened. From everything I'm hearing, it sounds as though he is progressing, just not enough for any team to want to take a shot at him yet. Feel bad for the guy; he was phenomenal last year for the Pats. Some could argue (ME ME ME) that he was the Pats best and most impactful defensive player before his injury. He always came up with the timely play when we needed it and his sacks were meaningful, impactful (there is that word again) plays. Aka the opposite of Mark Anderson. Anyway, my girlfriends cousin ended up getting close to their family for the year he was here and from everything I heard, they sound like great people. Best of luck to Carter. Sad he wont be back. LEGGO CHANDLER JONES!!
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
No Brian Waters?
Uh oh. I really like Brian Waters. He puts our line on another level as far as consistency and ceiling. This allows Connelly to slide into Center and removes Koppen from the roster, making way for a younger, more versatile player. Without him, we are still okay, but I want him back. I don't see Belichick finding him not showing up very amusing. All reports this offseason was that he was pretty much MIA, but did get excuse from mini-camp, so there had to be at least a little expectation he'd be here. All in all, surprised, not shocked, but hope he reports.
OMG Addai was cut?!?!
Let's be real here. Addai is washed up. Check his stats from the last 3 years. I know we all wanted a 22 year old in his prime style Addai, but sounds like that wasn't happening. Unless they pick up another veteran I see em goin with the young guns and Larsen at FB. They always have Hernandez to play in the pinch of an injury crops up.
Visanthe Shiancoe - My Thoughts
-Hardest name to spell ever.
-Born in England. Weird. Yes, I had to Google this dickhead so I could spell his name and randomly found this in his wiki. Pointless, but I found it interesting with the NFL trying to go all England all over everybody's asses and Kraft trying to get the Pats out there every year (as the visiting team the scheming bastard).
-Kinda old, not too old, should still have his legs.
-Sounds like he has a shitty ass agent. Apparently the Pats were in on him earlier, he was asking for way more money and allegedly turned down 1.2 mil guaranteed from some team expecting to get a bigger deal. (no I dont have any sources, just trust me, I heard it somewhere and I am way too lazy to Google to find a link to prove it). Then, finally as camp approaches, and he is sitting there playing with himself, the Pats offer him 400k guaranteed to be their 4th TE (follow the money, he gets less of it than 3 TEs on roster). So yeah, his agent should be fired.
-I AM SO DOWN to have him on the team. His last good season was when he was with Favre and he killed the game. 2 years ago he had a dead Favre and last year he had Christian fucking Ponder throwing to him, I am throwing those stats out.
-Everyone seems to think this means Fells opens the year on PUP and Shiancoe goes into the year as the 3rd TE. The question then is, what happens when Fells comes back? Personally, I am want all 4 of them on the roster. Can you imagine a package of Hernandez, Fells, Gronk, Shiancoe, (insert RB here)? Fucking amazing. Run it down your throat or pull everyone out and spread the field. YOU CANNOT DEFEND THIS.
-He better not suck. I have high hopes.
-Born in England. Weird. Yes, I had to Google this dickhead so I could spell his name and randomly found this in his wiki. Pointless, but I found it interesting with the NFL trying to go all England all over everybody's asses and Kraft trying to get the Pats out there every year (as the visiting team the scheming bastard).
-Kinda old, not too old, should still have his legs.
-Sounds like he has a shitty ass agent. Apparently the Pats were in on him earlier, he was asking for way more money and allegedly turned down 1.2 mil guaranteed from some team expecting to get a bigger deal. (no I dont have any sources, just trust me, I heard it somewhere and I am way too lazy to Google to find a link to prove it). Then, finally as camp approaches, and he is sitting there playing with himself, the Pats offer him 400k guaranteed to be their 4th TE (follow the money, he gets less of it than 3 TEs on roster). So yeah, his agent should be fired.
-I AM SO DOWN to have him on the team. His last good season was when he was with Favre and he killed the game. 2 years ago he had a dead Favre and last year he had Christian fucking Ponder throwing to him, I am throwing those stats out.
-Everyone seems to think this means Fells opens the year on PUP and Shiancoe goes into the year as the 3rd TE. The question then is, what happens when Fells comes back? Personally, I am want all 4 of them on the roster. Can you imagine a package of Hernandez, Fells, Gronk, Shiancoe, (insert RB here)? Fucking amazing. Run it down your throat or pull everyone out and spread the field. YOU CANNOT DEFEND THIS.
-He better not suck. I have high hopes.
Hey Yallz
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