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Wes Welker has signed his $9.5 million franchise tender with the New England Patriots, as first reported by The Boston Globe. Welker has played five years with the Patriots, amassing 6,105 receiving yards and 31 touchdowns in 66 games.
Cornerback is a position of concern for the New England Patriots as the 2012 NFL season approaches. Wide receiver is anything but. With the Patriots finishing their OTA on Thursday, ESPN's Mike Reiss writes that the team saw encouraging developments at both positions.
Cornerback Ras-I Dowling, the Patriots' second-round selection in 2011, looked strong after being limited to just two games in his rookie season before undergoing hip surgery. Reiss writes that Dowling's size stood out, and he showed enough speed to run stride for stride with Brandon Lloyd on at least one occasion.
The Patriots' crowded wide receiver corpse has put Deion Branch in unfamiliar territory as a possible odd man out, but Reiss said Branch looked quick and impressive during Thursday's workout. With Lloyd and Anthony Gonzalez joining the cast of weapons at Tom Brady's disposal, Branch certainly will need to scratch for playing time.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
The New England Patriots announced on Wednesday that they have signed their first-round draft choice Chandler Jones. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.
Jones (6-5, 265) was a three-year starter at defensive end for the Syracuse Orange. He made 147 tackles and 10 sacks during his career. He also forced five fumbles and recovered one fumble. The junior was named to the All-Big East team in 2011 despite playing in just seven games.
Jones was selected 21st overall by the Patriots. He is the fifth New England draft pick to sign. First-rounder Dont'a Hightower and third-rounder Jake Bequette are the only remaining draft picks who have not yet signed a contract. Hightower is a linebacker from Alabama. Bequette is a defensive end from Arkansas.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
Wes Welker and the New England Patriots have been involved in a little bit of a contract standoff since he signed a franchise tender last week. On Tuesday, team owner Robert Kraft said he would like to keep Welker a "Patriot for life," but only if a deal makes sense for the club.
"Well we'd like to see him be a Patriot for life but it takes two sides," Kraft told Kim Jones of NFL Network Tuesday at the league meetings in Atlanta. "We're just happy he's back in the system. He's a wonderful young man, and a special guy. I think both sides would like to do a deal, but it requires intelligence and putting our team first."
Welker has made some public comments about being unhappy with the negotiations, but Kraft said there are no hard feelings within the organization.
"Anyone can say whatever they want. He's done a great job for us, we're always trying to do whatever we can do to put our team in the best position to win, that means balancing a lot of things, understanding what the cap is, what the cap growth is, how things fit in the system and we try to have values for every position and every player," Kraft said.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
The New England Patriots already have two of the top pass-catching tight ends in the National Football League. And they might be looking to add another tight end with a long resume of receptions.
According to Shalise M. Young of the Boston Globe, former Indianapolis Colts tight end Dallas Clark was in Foxborough on Tuesday to visit with the Patriots.
The NFL Network reports that no deal is imminent and the Patriots are just putting in "due diligence" to determine how much Clark can still produce and whether he would be open to joining the club.
The 33-year old Clark was long considered one of the league's best pass-catching tight ends, but has suffered through two consecutive injury-riddled seasons. He managed 34 catches for 352 yards and two touchdowns in 11 games with a miserable Colts team in 2011, but his skills have lessened to the point where at least one scout questioned whether Clark is "done."
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
On Thursday, Wes Welker came out publicly, saying the contract negotiations between himself and the New England Patriots have "gotten worse".
One day later, Shalise Manza Young of the Boston Globe, is reporting that the Patriots were not too fond of Welker's comments.
According to a team source, Welker's decision to go public in recent weeks about negotiations has not gone over well with the Patriots; two weeks ago, when he made appearances on various ESPN programs, he made reference to holding out at least through full-team minicamp next month. His words have only increased the chances that 2012 will be his final season with the team.
The Patriots have a history of cutting ties with players at the perfect time. Between the contract talks and the subtle jabs at Rex Ryan publicly, last season – which the Pats were supposedly not pleased with – could be the writing on the wall for Welker's departure.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
The New England Patriots have reportedly agreed to terms with seventh-round draft choice Alfonzo Dennard on a four-year contract.
Dennard (5-10, 205) is a first-team All-Big Ten cornerback out of Nebraska who was projected to go in the second or third round of the NFL Draft before his arrest in Lincoln, Nebraska during an incident at a bar. Dennard was accused of striking a police officer. He is currently facing a third-degree felony assault of a police officer charge and will be arraigned on May 30. Dennard could face up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine if convicted.
Dennard made 91 tackles (64 solo) four interceptions and 21 pass breakups while at Nebraska. He is the third member of the Patriots 2012 draft class to sign, after Tavon Wilson and Jeremy Ebert.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
Wes Welker signed his franchise tender with the New England Patriots earlier this week with the knowledge that he was giving away any leverage he had in contract discussions. He said he was making a leap of faith and trusting the Patriots to do the right thing.
But so far, Welker told the Boston Herald Thursday, contracts talks have "gotten worse."
"There have been talks, but nothing that's brightened anything at all," Welker said. "It's actually gotten worse."
When asked to define "worse," Welker said the offer on the table is less than the two-year, $16 million fully guaranteed contract that was offered to him during the 2011 regular season.
Welker and the club have until June 16 to agree to a longer contract. If no agreement has been made by that date, Welker will play this season under the franchise tender of $9.5 million.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
New England Patriots seventh-round draft pick Alfonzo Dennard has waived his right to a preliminary hearing in an assault case against him (via WEEI).
Dennard, who played for Nebraska in college, was accused of striking an officer outside of a Lincoln, Nebraska bar on April 21. He will be arraigned on May 30. If convicted of third-degree felony assault of a police officer, Dennard could face five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Dennard had been projected to be a much higher draft pick than a seventh rounder before his arrest. Patriots coach Bill Belichick said the organization was aware of the arrest
"Alfonzo is a guy who we spent a lot of time on. Obviously the incident affected his draft position," Patriots coach Bill Belichick said shortly after New England selected Dennard. "But certainly we're aware of it. We researched it, we found out as much as we could about it. Obviously as an organization we were comfortable taking the selection where we did. ... There's obviously some other things that are currently out there from a legal standpoint that I obviously can't comment on."
Dennard is currently free on $5,000 bond.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
The New England Patriots have reportedly agreed to terms with their seventh-round draft pick Jeremy Ebert (via WEEI).
Ebert (6-0, 195), a wide receiver out of Northwestern, is the second Patriots 2012 NFL Draft pick to sign a contract. Second-round pick Tavon Wilson signed a four-year deal worth $4.217 million, including a $1.507 million signing bonus. Ebert's deal is reportedly worth $2.148 million, including a $48,200 bonus.
Ebert had 75 catches for 1,060 yards and 11 touchdowns as a senior for Northwestern. He had 20 total touchdown grabs and 156 catches during his college career.
With Ebert aboard that leaves five Patriots draft selections left to sign, including the No. 21 overall pick, Chandler Jones from Syracuse and the No. 25 overall pick, Dont'a Hightower from Alabama.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
Wes Welker signed a franchise tender Tuesday that guarantees he will keep him in New England at least for the 2012 NFL season. But in a tweet following the signing, Welker acknowledged that the ball is now in the Patriots' court.
"I think in essence the Patriots understood, and he understands, he can't really live without football. He's an addict, he needs football, and he understands the 9.5 (million dollars) is about half of what he made over the length of (his previous) contract," said CSNNE analyst Tom E. Curran. "He gave up the leverage, but that tweet made a nice passive-aggressive stand that says, 'Look, I'm doing it. Meet me halfway here, Patriots. Meet me halfway here, Kraft. Put your money where your mouth is. You said you were going to renegotiate and do the right thing. Let's see if you do.'"
Could the Patriots find a replacement for Welker if they don't lock him up with a long-term contract?
"Going into last year, I thought someone could replicate but not duplicate what Wes Welker did. And then he came out and he was the best receiver in the National Football League for the first half of the season, hands down -- outside, inside, whatever, hands down the most productive guy. And I actually went up to him and I said, 'I got it wrong. Nobody can do what you exactly can do. Nobody in the NFL can do it, certainly nobody on the Patriots can do it,'" said Curran. "I don't know if he was at the height of his powers last year and he can come back and be as good as he was last year for that eight- to 10-game stretch. But no, I haven't seen anybody play that position as well as him."
For more of Curran's comments on the Welker signing, view the video below:
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
After signing a franchise tender to remain with the New England Patriots this season, Wes Welker called the move a leap of faith.
I signed my tender today. I love the game and I love my teammates! Hopefully doing the right thing gets the right results. #leapoffaith
— Wes Welker (@WesWelker) May 15, 2012
By calling it a leap of faith, Welker is likely referring to his decision to sign the one-year tender rather than wait for a long-term deal. He and the Patriots still have until June 16 to agree to a longer contract. On that date, if they haven't come to a further agreement, Welker's franchise tender will be locked in for the remainder of the season.
Welker caught 122 passes for 1,569 yards and nine touchdowns last season.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
More: On Welker signing franchise tag
The New England Patriots and Wes Welker have ended their contract stalemate, at least for this season.
According to multiple reports, the Pro Bowl wide receiver signed the franchise tender Tuesday that will pay him $9.5 million for the 2012 season. He and the team still have until July 16 to work out a long-term deal, or else Welker will play under the franchise tender for the remainder of the season.
After Welker caught 122 passes for 1,569 yards and nine touchdowns, the Patriots labeled him with the franchise tag.
A number of contract discussions followed, and Welker considered missing the team's mini-camp in June. But even before signing on Tuesday, he told WEEI the contract differences would not be an issue.
Added Welker: "We're just kind of moving along. I have a great relationship with coach [Bill Belichick] and Mr. Kraft and with the front office and everybody else. I don't think there's any sort of hard feelings on my side or their side. I think we're all looking forward to the 2012 season and hopefully do some big things there."
Greg Bedard of the Boston Globe first reported the Welker signing.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
The face-paced offseason continued for the New England Patriots Tuesday, as they officially inked second-round selection, Illinois defensive back Tavon Hill, to a deal and then released quarterback Mike Hartline. The move to release Hartline bring the Patriots roster size to 88 players. New England is allowed 90 during the offseason.
On Friday, the details of the deal with Hill were reported by Scout.com's Aaron Wilson. The Patriots are expected to use Wilson, who was one of six defensive selection for New England, to help improve one of the worst defenses in the league last season.
So far, Hill is the first of the seven 2012 NFL Draft picks to ink a deal with the Patriots, who still have not reached agreements with first-rounders Chandler Jones and Dont'a Hightower.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker, who missed voluntary workouts and has been involved in a contract dispute since being labeled with the franchise tag, said Monday that contract talks will not keep him from appearing in any regular season games.
"There are 9.5 million reasons why I wouldn't miss any regular-season games," Welker said on the "Mut & Merloni" program.
Welker had a career year in 2011, catching 122 passes for 1,529 yards and nine touchdowns. He previously said he would not attend the team's June mini-camp without a long-term deal in place, but softened his stance on Monday.
"I think we're still kind of waiting, but I'd really like to be there," Welker told hosts Mike Mutnansky and Lou Merloni. "I don't know. To say I'm going one way or another right now, I'm not going to say it's definite or anything like that, but I would definitely like to be at those minicamps for sure."
Asked if there have been discussions about a long-term contract with the Patriots since the draft, Welker said: "I think we're all on the same page and we're all trying to collectively come together and make something happen."
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
The New England Patriots have agreed to terms with second-round draft pick Tavon Wilson, reports Aaron Wilson of Scout.com.
Per Wilson, the deals of the term follow:
New England Patriots have agreed to a terms with rookie second-round safety Tavon Wilson on a four-year, $4.217 million contract that includes a $1.507 million signing bonus, according to a league source.
The first two years of the deal, $390,000 and $581,722, are fully guaranteed and the last two years, $773,444 and $965,166, aren't fully guaranteed.
Wilson was expected to go undrafted by most analysts, but the Patriots surprised the NFL world by selecting him in round two. The 22-year old safety/cornerback out of Illinois was an All-Big Ten Conference honorable mention in 2011 after notching 74 tackles, seven pass deflections, one sack and one interception.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
The New England Patriots announced the signings of veteran running back Joseph Addai and seven rookie free agents on Thursday.
Addai spent his entire NFL career with the Indianapolis Colts before being released on March 9, 2012. During his years with the Colts, Addai rushed for 4,453 yards and 39 touchdowns. He's also a receiving threat with 191 career receptions for 1,448 yards and nine scores. The former first-round NFL Draft pick has only fumbled 7 times (5 lost) during his NFL career.
The rookie free agents were:
RB Brandon Bolden (Mississippi), DL Marcus Forston (Miami), DL Justin Francis (Rutgers), TE Brad Herman (Iowa), WR Matt Roark (Kentucky), OL Jeremiah Warren (South Florida) and OL Markus Zusevics (Iowa).
This group of seven players will join the Patriots' seven NFL Draft picks at rookie mini-camp that begins on Friday at Gillette Stadium.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
The name's Brady. Tom Brady, secret agent.
(Photo via boston.3432.voxcdn.com)
Brady was rocking this new hairdo at Met Ball 2012, and that shoulder on the right is his wife Gisele Bundchen who the editor so rudely cropped out. As Joe Haggerty of CSNNE said, Gisele strikes again.
The New England Patriots have reportedly agreed to a deal with former Indianapolis Colts running back Joseph Addai. Could the veteran take over the role that Kevin Faulk has played for the Pats in recent years (before his injury)? For his part, Faulk hasn't officially decided on his future and last month was optimistic about returning to New England. But assuming Faulk retires or does not end up on the Patriots next season, Steve DeOssie talked about what role Addai could play on the Patriots.
Besides playing for LSU in college, both Addai and Faulk are backs that can run the ball for a solid average as well as be a threat to catch the ball out of the backfield. Another thing both running backs do well is hold on to the football. Addai's only fumbled seven times in six NFL seasons.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
The New England Patriots have officially announced the signing of free agent wide receiver Jabar Gaffney. Gaffney previously played with the Patriots from 2006 through 2008.
Patriots officially re-sign WR Jabar Gaffney: bit.ly/Kg6Fyf
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) May 7, 2012
Gaffney, a second round draft pick in 2002, played for the Washington Redskins last season after spending two years with the Denver Broncos prior to that, catching 68 passes for 947 yards and five touchdowns in 16 games. In 155 career games, Gaffney has 5,622 receiving yards and 24 touchdowns in 10 seasons. Gaffney's best season in New England came in 2007, when he had 449 receiving yards and five scores.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
So few athletes get to walk out on their own terms, and that's why offensive lineman Matt Light decided to call it a career after 11 memorable seasons with the New England Patriots at a press conference at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts on Monday morning.
"Also health reasons, just wanting to leave this game upright and feeling good. To be quite honest with you, I really had this sense of being grateful for the experience. I remember 2011, this past season there was a different mindset, maybe that's why I enjoyed some success out there. I really just felt like I am blessed to be a part of this. It made this season so memorable, so fun, for me, when I finally closed this chapter, I am truly grateful. Especially this young talent, I saw how talented they were and how they were in good hands. With (offensive line coach) Dante (Scarnecchia) in the room, there's going to be high expectations." (via WEEI)
Light also cited his family as one of the main reasons he is deciding to hang 'em up.
"I've got a daughter that's 10, I've got two boys who are knuckleheads and they need a lot of guidance a lot more time," said Light. "I think that one of things that was ever apparent over the last couple seasons, it takes a lot longer to recover the older you get. Really during that six, seven, eight months of that football season, it really becomes very difficult to give much outside of a 'hi' or 'Good night' or 'Good morning.' That's always been really important." (via WEEI)
Light finished his career as a four-time Pro Bowler and a three-time Super Bowl champ.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
New England Patriots left tackle Matt Light retired Monday morning after 11 NFL seasons, all with the New England Patriots.
Teammates and coaches used the opportunity to praise Light's leadership and sense of humor.
"He was a great prankster and that will be missed around there," guard Logan Mankins said following the announcement, which was attended by all members of the offensive line. "He always lightened the mood around there. Guys really enjoyed being around Matt. Those grinding days he always picked guys spirits up."
"He's one of my favorite teammates that I've ever had," Brady said during a video played at the conference. "I'm certainly going to miss him."
"To not fool around with guard and right tackle, that was probably one of the best un-coaching, undoing a bad decision that I've done," Belichick said of his initial decision to move Light to right tackle during his rookie training camp. "He's been a tremendous player for us, a tremendous resource for our team.
"He's given great leadership as well as great performance. A lot of levity that we probably need around here. Most of which I'll miss, but not all of it."
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
Joseph Addai, a free agent running back who had spent his entire career with the Indianapolis Colts, will reportedly sign with the New England Patriots, according to new Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning.
Manning, who played with Addai during his six-year career in Indy, told reporters on Saturday that Addai was set to sign with New England. The news was first reported by Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star.
Addai has racked up 4,453 rushing yards and 39 touchdowns on 1,095 carries in 78 career games. Last season, Addai had 433 rushing yards and a score on 118 rushes. Addai topped 1,000 yards rushing in each of his first two seasons in 2006 and 2007, when he totaled 1,081 and 1,072 yards respectively. Addai's career high for touchdown rushes in a season is 12.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
The New England Patriots announced Friday that offensive lineman Matt Light plans to hold a press conference to announce his retirement on Monday.
The press conference is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. at the Patriots Hall of Fame and modern museum, and will be open to all Patriots Hall of Fame patrons. Half of the admission fees from 10-noon will be donated to the Light Foundation.
Speculation swirled earlier in the summer about Light's potential retirement when he dodged the question during an interview at a charity event. He has not attended any of the Patriots offseason workouts.
Light was the Patriots' starting tackle for the last 11 years, one of only a handful of players to be with the Patriots for all of their Super Bowl titles.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
The crowded New England Patriots wide receiving corps just became a little less so. The team has released Tiquan Underwood, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network.
Underwood, well known for his high-top fade haircut, appeared in six games for the Patriots during 2011, catching three passes for 30 yards.
This isn't the first time Underwood was released by the Patriots. He was cut the day before the Super Bowl in a move that caught most of the sports world by surprise. New England used the open roster spot to sign defensive end Alex Silvestro from the practice squad, but Silvestro did not play a single down in the Super Bowl. Underwood re-signed with the club two days after the Super Bowl.
After adding Brandon Lloyd and Anthony Gonzalez to an already-crowded receiving depth chart, the Patriots were going to need to make room somehow. Underwood appears to be the first casualty.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
The New England Patriots have announced their dates for rookie and veteran minicamps. In addition, the team also announced dates for organized team activities.
The Patriots' rookies are set to have their minicamp on May 10-12 while the veterans' camp is set for June 12-14.
Here's a list of the dates for the Patriots' organized team activities:
May 21-22, May 24, May 29-31, June 4-5, June 7-8
The Patriots have plenty of expectations and unfinished business after last season's Super Bowl loss to the New York Giants. One player who has said fairly recently that he probably will skip minicamp is wide receiver Wes Welker. Welker and the team have not been able to come to terms on a new deal after the Pats slapped the franchise tag on the wide receiver this offseason.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
In the 2012 SB Nation NFL Power Rankings by Joel Thorman, the New England Patriots come in second behind the Green Bay Packers.
New England had a strong draft by almost all accounts highlighted by the selections of Chandler Jones and Dont'a Hightower. Bill Belichick always seems to have twice the picks of everyone else and this year was no exception.
The Patriots also had a pretty strong free agency period so it's easy to see why Thorman has them ranked so highly once again after their Super Bowl defeat.
Brandon Lloyd was brought in to reunite with Josh McDaniels while no key player was lost with the exception of perhaps Mark Anderson and BenJarvus Green-Ellis.
Of course, as long as Tom Brady and Belichick are around, this team will always be a playoff caliber unit with a chance to have confetti raining down on them in February.
If New England does in fact have an improved defense, they might even move up in the rankings sooner rather than later.
For more on the Patriots please be sure to check out our blog, Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.
Wes Welker hinted earlier this month that he may hold out from offseason workouts with the New England Patriots unless the team signs him to a longterm deal. The Pats placed the franchise tag on the receiver last month, a move that made him one of the highest players at his position but left his future hazy beyond the upcoming season.
Former Patriots linebacker Willie McGinest didn't take too kindly to Welker's mini protest. On Tuesday he called out the wide receiver, saying he didn't like his "diva attitude" among other things:
The New England Patriots offseason hasn't been as dramatic as their AFC East rival opponents the New York Jets, but it soon might make a run at it. That's because wide receiver Wes Welker apparently isn't happy about his new franchise tag and is considering sitting out mandatory minicamps to get a long-term deal done.
"I’m thinking I’m probably not going to (attend mandatory workouts), but things could change," Welker said. "We’ll just see how it all plays out."
Welker, who's set to make $9.5 million from the franchise tag, said this during a radio interview with ESPN Boston Radio. The Pro Bowl wide out said he understands how the Patriots franchise works, especially under head coach Belichick, but admitted he hasn't been a part of voluntary workouts because of the contract situation and could make the same stance come June 12, when mandatory workouts begin.
The Patriots and Welker have until mid-July to workout a new deal.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
New England Patriots offensive lineman Matt Light still has yet to reveal whether he plans to retire, telling reporters at a Wednesday charity event that he has no timetable for the decision.
"No, I'm just rocking and rolling," the 33-year-old Light told reporters when asked about his possible retirement. "I've been in Ohio, working on some stuff for the [Matt Light] Foundation. We have a youth turkey hunt coming up. Other than that it's been pretty quiet."
"No, not really. Although my wife has a pretty good idea on what is going to happen with me," Light said, winking at the reporter. "She keeps me pretty busy."
"You know, at this point, I'm just kind of taking it day by day," Light said. "We'll see how it goes. Sooner than later."
Light has started the last 11 seasons, all with the Patriots.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
Following the NFL's release of the 2012 schedule as a whole, we've isolated just the Sunday Night Football games for you.
The Patriots will play twice on Sunday night this season. In Week 3 they will visit the Baltimore Ravens in a rematch of last season's thrilling AFC Championship Game. In Week 15 the Pats will play host to Jim Harbaugh and the San Francisco 49ers in what should be another exciting matchup of two NFL powerhouses from last season.
New England will also get the primetime treatment from NBC's crew for their Thanksgiving matchup against the always-entertaining New York Jets.
Here's the complete 2012 Sunday Night Football Schedule:
Week 1: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Denver Broncos
Week 2: Detroit Lions vs. San Francisco 49ers
Week 3: New England Patriots vs. Baltimore Ravens
Week 4: New York Giants vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Week 5: San Diego Chargers vs. New Orleans Saints
Week 6: Green Bay Packers vs. Houston Texans
Week 7: Philadelphia Steelers vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Week 8: New Orleans Saints vs. Denver Broncos
Week 9: Dallas Cowboys vs. Atlanta Falcons
Week 10: Houston Texans vs. Chicago Bears
Week 11: Baltimore Ravens vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Week 12: New England Patriots vs. New York Jets (Thanksgiving)
Week 12: Green Bay Packers vs. New York Giants
Week 13: Philadelphia Eagles vs. Dallas Cowboys
Week 14: Detroit Lions vs. Green Bay Packers
Week 15: San Francisco 49ers vs. New England Patriots
Week 16: San Diego Chargers vs. New York Jets
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit, which also should have full analysis of the schedule.
The NFL released the 2012 schedule at 7 p.m. on Tuesday on NFL Network and NFL.com. We've blocked out just the Monday Night Football games to give you the schedule for those games.
The New England Patriots drew just one Monday night matchup this year. In Week 14 they will host the Houston Texans in Gillette Stadium in what could be an intriguing matchup. The Texans are looking to improve past the second round of the playoffs without the likes of superstar defensive end Mario Williams, now with the Buffalo Bills.
Here's the full Monday Night Football schedule (all games on ESPN):
Week 5: Texans vs. Jets
Week 6: Broncos vs. Chargers
Week 7: Lions vs. Bears
Week 11: Bears vs. 49ers
Week 12: Panthers vs. Eagles
Week 14: Texans vs. Patriots
Week 15: Jets vs. Titans
Week 16: Falcons vs. Lions (Saturday)
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit, which also should have full analysis of the schedule.
The NFL released the 2012 NFL schedule on NFL Network and NFL.com at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday.
All NFL teams will play on Thursday night this season in one way or another. The Patriots will not be part of Thursday Night Football this season. However, the Pats do have a Thursday night game on Thanksgiving Day against the Jets at 8:20 p.m.
Here's the Thursday Night Football Schedule:
Week 8: Buccaneers vs. Vikings
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit, which also should have full analysis of the schedule.
The New England Patriots released their 2012 NFL Schedule on Tuesday night after it was revealed by NFL Network and NFL.com at 7 p.m.
Here's how the Pats 2012 schedule stacks up:
Week 1, September 9th, 1:00 p.m.: Patriots at Titans (CBS)
Week 2, September 16th, 1:00 p.m.: Cardinals at Patriots (FOX)
Week 3, September 23rd, 8:20 p.m.: Patriots at Ravens (NBC)
Week 4, September 30th, 1:00 p.m.: Patriots at Bills (CBS)
Week 5, October 7th, 4:15 p.m., Broncos at Patriots (CBS)
Week 6, October 14th, 4:05 p.m.: Patriots at Seahawaks (CBS)
Week 7, October 21st, 4:15 p.m.: Jets at Patriots (CBS)
Week 8, October 28th, 1:00 p.m.: Patriots at Rams (CBS)
Week 9 BYE
Week 10, November 11th, 1:00 p.m.: Bills at Patriots (CBS)
Week 11, November 18th, 1:00 p.m.: Colts at Patriots (CBS)
Week 12, November 22nd, 8:20 p.m.: Patriots at Jets (NBC)
Week 13, December 2nd, 1:00 p.m.: Patriots at Dolphins (CBS)
Week 14, December 10th, 8:30 p.m.: Texans at Patriots (ESPN)
Week 15, December 16th, 8:20 p.m.: 49ers at Patriots (NBC)
Week 16, December 23rd, 1:00 p.m.: Patriots at Jaguars (CBS)
Week 17, December 30th, 1:00 p.m.: Dolphins at Patriots (CBS)
The Pats only have to make one cross-country trip this season to play Seattle. They get to host the 49ers, the defending NFC West champ. The Bye week comes in about the middle of the season which gives New England an opportunity to break the season up into two chunks. The Patriots will play the Jets on Thanksgiving Day and have a Monday Night Football game against the Texans on December 10.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit, which also should have full analysis of the schedule.
One of the most anticipated off season days of the NFL is here, as 2012-13 schedule will be release on Tuesday during a NFL Network special starting at 7 p.m. ET. NFL Network and NFL.com will be the first source to have the New England Patriots week-by-week schedule, which will also be broken down during a three-hour ESPN SportsCenter special also starting at 7 p.m.
So far, the only known regular-season contest is the season-opening game between the defending Super Bowl Champions the New York Giants and NFC East rival the Dallas Cowboys which be played Wednesday, Sept. 5, starting at 8:30 p.m.
The remaining 17-week slate will be revealed and broken down by NFL Network and ESPN. If you'd like a complete look at the known Patriots' opponents for this upcoming season, click here.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit, which also should have full analysis of the schedule.
New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker was not at the team's voluntary workout on Monday, according to a report (via ESPN Boston).
Welker was given the Franchise Tag by the Patriots earlier in the offseason. So far, no long-term deal has been reached with New England. Welker has not decided if he will attend the offseason program.
"Still looking to try and decide on that," Welker said. "I'm in no rush and we'll figure it out. Me and my agent, we're all on the same page with everything. Just looking to move forward and looking forward to the 2012 season."
Welker's franchise tender for the 2012 season would be worth $9.5 million. NFL teams have the middle of July to complete a deal with franchise tagged players such as Welker.
Welker caught 122 passes for 1,569 yards and 9 touchdowns for the Pats last season.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
The New England Patriots will learn the order of their 2012 schedule on Tuesday when it is released on NFL Network and NFL.com at 7:00 p.m. (via NFL Network Twitter).
The Patriots' opponents are already known, just not the order they will be played in. The TV schedule and times for the games will also come out tomorrow.
Here are the Patriots 2012 home opponents: 49ers, Bills, Cardinals, Colts, Dolphins, Jets, Texans, Broncos
Here are the Patriots 2012 away opponents: Bills, Dolphins, Jaguars, Jets, Rams, Seahawks, Titans, Ravens
The Pats were 13-3 in 2011 and finished last season with two straight home games and had three of the last five games of the season in Foxborough. Despite that ending, New England traveled 14,610 miles during the 2011 season. Will they have fewer miles to go in 2012?
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
Running back Kevin Faulk doesn't want to end his career just yet. But he isn't sure whether the New England Patriots feel the same way.
The 35-year old had been contemplating retirement, but told reporters Thursday during an appearance at Hasbro Children's Hospital that he wants to play another year.
"I am training to come back to play," Faulk said. "But it's not up to me. It's up to the team and everything, but I am planning on coming back to play, so we'll see what happens."
"It took me awhile to make a decision. But I felt like I needed this time. I've been playing professional football for a very long time," Faulk said. "To have that opportunity, to be able to play again, I wanted to give myself that time to think about, and I thought about it, and I knew where my heart is, and it's always been there."
Faulk has played 13 seasons, all with the Patriots. He appeared in seven games last season, rushing 17 times for 57 yards.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
According to Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio's most recent salary cap numbers, the New England Patriots are in the top half of teams when it comes to money to spend. According to Florio's numbers, the Patriots are $9.9 million under the salary cap, which makes them the richest team with less than $10 million to spend. They do have the most money to spend in the AFC East, as the Bills are $9.7 million under the cap, the Jets are $7.6 under and the Dolphins are $6.4 million under.
The Patriots have been fairly active in free agency, re-signing their own players and bringing new players in. They have re-signed wide receiver Deion Branch, guard Dan Connolly, linebacker Tracy White and others and they have brought in wide receivers Brandon Lloyd, Donte Stallworth and Anthony Gonzalez, cornerback Will Allen and others. They have also lost a few players including Mark Anderson and BenJarvus Green-Ellis.
For more on the Patriots, head to Pats Pulpit, and for more offseason updates, follow SB Nation Boston's StoryStream.
The NFL recently passed several rule changes, but one specifically dealt with instant replay. While the result of reviews will remain the call of the referee on the field, that referee will also be charged with determining whether or not a turnover occurred on a play. Yes, all turnovers will be subject to a booth review using replay.
Former Patriots player Steve DeOssie stopped by CSNNE's Sports Tonight to talk about the issue. DeOssie's main concern is that the NFL refuses to hire and train full-time referees on the field and employees to put in the replay booths. As far as reviewing the turnovers goes, DeOssie feels that is just another sign that the league is catering to the fans to make sure there is as little controversy about results as possible.
For more on the Patriots, be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the news, notes and updates.
The 2012 NFL Draft order was officially released Tuesday, and the New England Patriots may not have the as many overall picks as usual, however, they will have a good amount of quality selections. Currently, the Patriots are one of three teams that will selection twice in the first round, and then will also selection twice in the second.
Of course, history has taught us that head coach Bill Belichick and the Patriots front office likes to trade those top picks for more later-round selections.
Below is the complete list of the Patriots' 2012 Draft Picks, while a rundown of New England's mock drafts can be found here:
Round 1, Pick 27 (overall 27, from Saints)
Round 1, Pick 31 (31)
Round 2, Pick 16 (48, from Raiders)
Round 2, Pick 31 (62)
Round 3, Pick 31 (93)
Round 4, Pick 31 (126)
For more on the Patriots, be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the news, notes and updates.
The New England Patriots have released fullback Lousaka Polite on Monday, according to a report.
#Patriots down to two FBs as they released Lousaka Polite. #freeagency
— Adam Caplan (@caplannfl) March 26, 2012
The Patriots were briefly up to three fullbacks when Tony Fiammetta was signed earlier in the day on Monday.
Polite (6-0, 245), was undrafted out of Pittsburgh in 2004. He had played for the Dallas Cowboys, Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins before being picked up by New England last season. Polite was primarily used as a blocking fullback. He appeared in just one regular season game for the Pats in 2011, but did not record any stats. Polite did appear in all three postseason games for New England last season. In the Patriots' 45-10 Divisional Round win over the Broncos, Polite had one carry for three yards.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
The New England Patriots have hired former NFL quarterback Chris Simms, according to a report.
A source just told us the #patriots have hired former Univ. of Texas, Bucs, Broncos, Titans QB Chris Simms. t.co/wlPN1ii0
— FootballScoop Staff (@footballscoop) March 26, 2012
It is not known at this time what position Simms has been hired to fill in the Patriots' organzation. Simms has no previous coaching experience.
After playing for the University of Texas, Simms was drafted in the 3rd Round of the 2003 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Simms played for the Buccaneers, Titans and Broncos during his eight-year career. His main season as a starter came in 2005 for Tampa Bay.
Simms' father Phil Simms played for the New York Giants from 1979-1993 while Pats head coach Bill Belichick was an assistant (1979-1990).
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
As reported earlier in the week, New England Patriots wide receiver Chad Ochocino was expected to return for the 2012 season, however, it seems that his price is coming at a reduced rate. According to ESPN.com's NFL insider Adam Schafter via Twitter, Ochocino has restructured his deal to be more friendly for the Patriots.
Patriots WR Chad Ochocinco restructured his contract for coming season, lowering base salary from $3 million to $1 million. Back to NE.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 25, 2012
Last offseason, Ochocinco was traded to the Patriots from the Cincinnati Begals after the former Pro Bowler restructured his deal. His time spent with the Super Bowl-runner ups wasn't a productive one, as Ochocinco caught a career-low 15 passes for 276 yards and one touchdown. It was only his fourth season without reaching 1,000 yards receiving during his 11 years in the NFL.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
According to Adam Schefter, Chad Ochocinco will be back with the New England Patriots next season.
"Ochocinco will be back in New England next year," Schefter says in the video above. "They believe that he'll spend this offseason immersing himself in the playbook, familiarizing himself with the Patriots' offense. They're going to bring all these wide receivers in and let them compete in training camp and the best receivers will play."
The six-time Pro Bowler was ineffective, if not irrelevant in New England last season. He caught a career-low 15 passes for 276 yards and one touchdown. It was only his fourth season without reaching 1,000 yards receiving during his 11 years in the NFL.
Ocho played on 354 total snaps last season, Playoffs and Super Bowl included. His PFF score for the season was -0.3. For the 2008 season PFF graded Chad as the eight-best pass-catcher receiver in the league.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
In a move that will free up $7.2 million of cap space for his team, New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady has restructured his contract, according to a report.
Brady, who signed a four-year, $72 million extension with New England at the beginning of the 2010 season, was scheduled to earn a base salary of $5.75 million this on top of a $6 million roster bonus and a $250,000 workout bonus.
Under his newly agreed up parameters, Brady will make just $950,000 in a fully guaranteed base salary for 2012, with the remainder of his money owed converted to a $10.8 million signing bonus to be prorated over the final three years of his contract.
The Patriots were not in cap peril prior to Brady's restructuring, and have already made a number of free agent signings this offseason.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
Logan Mankins underwent surgery on a torn ACL following the New England Patriots' Super Bowl loss in February, according to Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston.com. The starting Pats left guard apparently played with the injury without even realizing it. Now he hopes to be ready for training camp in late July.
The news makes sense in context with the Pats signing Robert Gallery away from Seattle earlier Monday. It was unclear initially why New England needed more bodies at what had been considered a position of strength. Though Gallery has obviously had his trials in the NFL, he should prove valuable as a versatile backup, especially if Mankins misses any part of the regular season.
Makins reportedly injured his knee on Dec. 24 in a 27-24 win over the Miami Dolphins. He missed just one game, the regular season finale, before starting throughout the playoffs and the Super Bowl. In true Bill Belichick fashion, we are only hearing of this over a month after the fact.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
The contract details for the recently acquired Brandon Lloyd are in, and the former Broncos and Rams receiver will be paid $12 million over the next three years by the Patriots, according to NFL Network's Jason LaCanfora.
The immediate reaction to Lloyd's deal is that the Patriots got major value during a time when receivers were flying off of the open market for big money. Vincent Jackson was recently inked to a five-year, $55.55 million deal with Tampa Bay, and Detroit extended Calvin Johnson's contract with new guarantees of $50 million.
Lloyd may have been hurt by a lack of suitors, as many have assumed that he would end up in New England with his former offensive coordinator and head coach, Josh McDaniels. McDaniels has reassumed the post of offensive coordinator in New England, and has maximized Lloyd's skill set in the three seasons that he coached him.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
Brandon Lloyd, one of the top free agent wide receivers, has reportedly signed with the New England Patriots, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. Tom E. Curran of Comcast SportsNet New England reports that he talked to Lloyd, who says he is ready to begin his career with the Patriots.
Lloyd is reunited with Josh McDaniels, the new offensive coordinator of the New England Patriots who coached Lloyd in Denver and again in St. Louis. Lloyd and McDaniels developed a strong relationship, leading to the belief the the Pats would have a hand up in signing Lloyd (as it turns out, they did).
Lloyd has 4,784 career receiving yards and 31 touchdowns in 112 career games. Lloyd began his career in 2003 with the San Francisco 49ers, where he would play for three seasons. Lloyd went on to play for the Washington Redskins, Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos and St. Louis Rams.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
Plenty of questions surround Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots as free agency begins league wide on Tuesday. Of course, the Patriots are not in need of a drastic overhaul: they are the defending AFC Champions, after all.
Still, there are plenty of areas that the Pats need to address in the open market. New England has a number of their own free agents that they will need to make decisions on, consisting of two runnings backs (BenJarvus Green Ellis, Kevin Faulk), two wide receivers (Deion Branch, Matthew Slater), three offensive linemen (Dan Connolly, Rich Ohrnberger, Ryan Wendell), five defensive linemen (Mark Anderson, Andre Carter, Shaun Ellis, Eric Moore, Gerard Warren), two linebackers (Gary Guyton, Tracy White) and four defensive backs (Antwaun Molden, James Ihedigbo, Nathan Jones, Bret Lockett).
New England has already addressed its biggest free agent, Wes Welker, by placing the franchise tag on the Pro Bowl receiver. Welker, who had an infamous drop on an imperfect throw from Tom Brady in Super Bowl XLVI against the New York Giants, which the Patriots lost, 21-17.
Around the league, there is certainly plenty to watch for in free agency. Peyton Manning, arguably the most talented free agent in NFL history, is still searching for a home. Also, old friend Randy Moss has agreed to sign with the San Francisco 49ers after retiring last season following his stint with the Patriots, Vikings and Titans two seasons ago.
Get ready, football fans, because we're just getting started. Enjoy free agency.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit.
As if the 15 catches all season long wasn't enough to make you uneasy about Chad Ochocinco, the New England Patriots wideout is reportedly getting a new reality show based on him and his fiance, Evelyn Lozada, on VH1 called "Ocho & Ev."
Evelyn Lozada and free agent wide receiver Chad Ochocinco will have their spin-off titled "Ocho & Ev," filming starts this spring and will document Evelyn and Chad's upcoming wedding and new life together - I wonder if Chad even needs to play football anymore - All his TD celebrations paid off big time. -TO (via TerezOwens.com)
Ochocinco was the target of criticism throughout most of last season for off the field distractions, mainly his Twitter account. On the field, his production was minimal, as Ochocinco had 276 receiving yards on 15 grabs in 15 games. Ochocinco had one catch in Super Bowl XLVI, which the Patriots lost to the New York Giants, 21-17.
The New England Patriots certainly possess a high-powered offense, but they've missed a downfield threat wide receiver since trading Randy Moss early during the 2010 season. Could Brandon Lloyd be the answer?
The free agent receiver, who played with the St. Louis Rams and Denver Broncos this past season, told CSNNE's Tom E. Curran he would consider signing with New England.
"Very interested. And like I said earlier, I admire Coach Bill (Belichick), I admire Tom Brady, I admire how they run things over there. For any receiver to be considered to come in and play on the New England Patriots is gonna be excited just because of the history of success."
The Patriots hired Josh McDaniels for his second stint as the team's offensive coordinator, which could help lure Lloyd; the two forged a relationship when both were in Denver.
Lloyd totaled 70 catches for 966 yards and five touchdowns last season.
For more on the Patriots, head to Pats Pulpit, and for more on the Patriots offseason, follow SB Nation Boston's stream.
Now that the combine has passed and draft experts have had time to digest what they saw from each of the 325 invites, it's time for another round of mock drafts to quench our draft needs leading up to late April.
Mel Kiper, Jr. and Todd McShay -- the lead draft analysts for ESPN -- have each recently released their third mock drafts, and both foresee the Patriots looking defensive with each of their first round picks.
Here's a look at each of their projections and the corresponding analyses given:
27. Kendall Reyes, DT, Connecticut
I had Reyes to the Patriots with their other first-round pick in a previous mock, and he sticks, albeit a little higher, this time around. The Patriots know they have to get better along the defensive front, and that could come via free agency (Mario Williams?). Still, I'd be surprised if they don't target it in the draft, even though Bill Belichick never fails to make moves and surprise during the draft. Reyes provides an active run-stuffer up front, a guy that can eat up blocks and free up rushers.
31. Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama
There's no question Jenkins comes with baggage, but without it you're talking about a player in the conversation 20 spots higher on the board. If you like your locker room and feel like you can keep him on track, this is the kind of guy you take a risk on at a big need position. I still think corner is one for the Patriots, who could obviously look at pass-rush help here. But put a talent like Jenkins in a culture like New England's, and you could have a steal.
27. Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois
Mercilus is not a great athlete, but he is a good fit at end in a four-man front, which is something the Patriots are using much more often these days. New England needs pass-rush help, and Mercilus has a nonstop motor and a knack for making big plays (FBS-best nine forced fumbles in 2011).
31. Devon Still, DT, Penn State
Still could show more consistency, but if the Patriots get their pass-rusher at No. 27 and there are no viable options available at wide receiver, he would offer an upgrade over DTs Kyle Love and Ron Brace in four-man fronts. Playing alongside Vince Wilfork would help Still early in his career, and if he learns to play with better pad level he could become an impact defensive tackle.
For all of your Patriots info, check out Pats Pulpit, and for more updates on the upcoming draft, head to Mocking the Draft.
With the clock winding down on the franchise tag deadline, the New England Patriots played it safe and decided to tag their star wide receiver Wes Welker, locking him up for the 2012 season.
The Patriots have publicly said that they placed the tag on Welker just as an insurance policy just in case they aren't able to work out an extension with him. On Tuesday, Welker responded to the team's decision to tag him on Twitter. The desire for him to be here beyond 2012 seems to be mutual.
Glad that I will be a Patriot in 2012. and hopefully '13,'14,'15,'16,'17,'18..........
— Wes Welker (@WesWelker) March 6, 2012
Wes Welker was officially given the Franchise Tag by the New England Patriots on Monday.
In a statement on Monday, the Patriots said about Welker
"Wes Welker is a remarkable football player for our team and has been a vital component to our offense and special teams since we traded for him in 2007. Utilizing the franchise designation allows both sides more time to try to reach an agreement, which is the goal. Wes remains a contractual priority and we are hopeful that he will remain a Patriot for years to come." (via ESPN Boston)
Welker's five-year deal is up and the team placing the Franchise Tag could be a move to give both sides more time to come to an agreement. The tag could be worth $9.4 million. Welker reportedly turned down a two-year deal worth $8 million.
Welker has been the leading receiver in the NFL in receptions since he signed with New England in 2007. He is also only one of two players to have two seasons of 120+ receptions.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit
The Houston Texans recently signed Arian Foster to a monster deal, which should help their running game for the next five years. But the signing could also help to push defensive end Mario Williams out the door, which begs the question:
If Williams becomes a free agent, would the New England Patriots pursue him?
Sports Illustrated's Peter King believes they should:
I think I'm more convinced than ever: The Patriots, who need major help on defense, should be at the front of the pursuit pack for Mario Williams, assuming the Texans don't put the franchise tag on him.
The Patriots have rarely made big-name splashes in free agency, but acquiring Williams makes sense on many levels. New England's defense struggled in 2011 and has not been stout for years. Williams, if healthy, would immediately become New England's best pass rusher, and he possesses the versatility Bill Belichick craves.
For more on the Patriots, head to Pats Pulpit, and for more on the Patriots offseason, follow SB Nation Boston's stream.
After much uncertainty and confusion, it appears the drama over New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker's free agency became a lot clearer late Sunday night.
According to Greg A. Bedard and Shalise Manza Young of the Boston Globe, the Patriots are expected to slap the franchise tag on Wes Welker just before the Monday afternoon deadline a league source close to them said.
With the new NFL collective bargaining agreement in place, franchised players are expected to receive close to $9.4 million next season with a one-year contract. Official terms on the franchise tag have not yet bee released, however.
The team reportedly offered Welker and his representatives a two-year, fully guaranteed contract for $16 million, but the proposal was turned down by the pro bowl wide receiver.
The team will have until 3:59 p.m. Monday do decide whether or not they will franchise Welker or another one of their free agents. New England is not required to use the tag. We'll know more in a few hours, but as of right now, it appears that Welker will be the Patriots' "franchise player" for the 2012 season.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit
Kevin Faulk, the venerable New England Patriots running back who has been with the team since he was drafted out of LSU in 1999, is not ready to retire just yet.
After serving pancakes for National Pancake Day at Children's Hospital Boston on Tuesday, Faulk told reporters:
"Of course, I'd like to be involved in the New England Patriots; let's keep it at that."
"I've been here 13 years playing and if I happen to retire or they don't happen to bring me back, I'm still going to be a New England Patriot. . . . I'm very blessed and fortunate that I have a few options." (via Boston Herald)
Faulk had been a vital player on three of the Patriots' Super Bowl-winning squads but was inactive in last season's Super Bowl against the Giants. An ACL tear from the previous season limited him to just seven games, 17 carries and 7 receptions this past season.
From more on the Patriots, visit our team page and our blog, Pats Pulpit.
With NFL free agency starting in less than two weeks, the rumor mill is starting to churn. According to Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston.com, the Patriots aren't an exception. Some whispers are starting to emerge about their potential interest in defensive end Mario Williams.
Williams might get the franchise tag from Houston, but if he doesn't he'll immediately become the most sought after free agent (along with perhaps Peyton Manning?).
For New England, the move would be a no-brainer. Bill Belichick has done a nice job of keeping some cap space and could use it to rebuild his mediocre defense. Instead of having to use a high draft pick on an outside linebacker, Belichick could move swiftly and take an established player.
The Texans will want to keep him, but at what price? After Williams was lost for the season with a torn pectoral muscle, rookie Brooks Reed filled in very nicely and helped injury-plagued Houston go on a nice playoff run. Nobody is suggesting here that Reed will ever be Williams, but maybe the Texans take the money they were going to pay Williams and invest it in a wide receiver.
Another thing to like is Williams' versatility. Belichick loves players who can move around and fit multiple schemes. Nobody does that like Williams, who can play with his hand in the dirt as a 4-3 end or standing up in the 3-4.
Mario Williams may not ever see free agency. However, if he does, New England will be a strong suitor.
In the latest mock draft by Peter Schrager, New England uses a first round pick on each side of the ball.
Wide receiver Kendall Wright is mocked to the Patriots with their first pick at No. 27. Wright made beautiful music with Robert Griffin III at Baylor all year, but didn't have a great combine showing.
He looks incredibly fast when playing (isn't that the most important thing?) but timed out slow in the 40-yard dash. It will merit watching how Wright fairs at his pro day in March.
With its second first round selection, Schrager has New England taking Zach Brown, a linebacker out of North Carolina. Brown would potentially fill a need at pass-rusher off the edge.
Andre Carter and Mark Anderson did an adequate job last year, but aren't the prototypical specialist. Brown has exceptional speed and burst, making him an ideal candidate for the job. He also can play the run, showcased by his 105 tackles last season at Chapel Hill.
The Patriots are in an interesting situation. With two picks so high, they could package them and trade up for one great player. However, they're more likely to trade back and acquire more picks if Bill Belichick's history tells us anything.
For more information on the Pats, be sure to check out Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston.
Chad Ochocinco has been approached by the New England Patriots to restructure his contract, according to Liz Mullen of the Sports Business Journal. After catching just 15 passes for 276 yards last season, the veteran receiver is likely to take a pay cut to give the Pats more room under the salary. Ochocinco is currently set to make $3.1 million next season in New England.
Ochocinco signed a 3-year, $11.5 million deal with the Patriots in July of 2011 to help facilitate a trade away from the Cincinnati Begals. Since, it's fair to say he hasn't quite lived up to his price tag. If a mutual deal can be struck, Ochocinco would be able to stay with the Super Bowl runners-up, and the Pats would gain more flexibility to re-sign free agent priorities like Wes Welker, BenJarvus Green-Ellis, and Shaun Ellis.
Ochocinco could still be headed for an outright release, especially if he pushes back against a pay cut. It's difficult to see him suddenly regaining his prime considering he will be 34 next season.
For more on the Patriots, head to Pats Pulpit, and for more on the Patriots offseason, follow SB Nation Boston's stream.
Yesterday, we heard word that while discussions were ongoing between the New England Patriots and Wes Welker, there had yet to be a breakthrough in talks. Now, it appears the Patriots fans shouldn't worry about Welker going anywhere else--at least next season.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Patriots will likely use the franchise tag on Wes Welker. Sources tell Schefter that the Patriots will continue talking to Welker, but they won't hesitate to tag him if there is no deal in place before the March 5 deadline. The franchise tag has an estimated value of $9.5 million for one year.
Patriots are likely to place their franchise tag wide receiver Wes Welker. Franchise WR tag is $9.5 million.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 26, 2012
Welker has been a tremendous asset to this Patriots offense since he joined the team in 2007. Since coming to New England, Welker has racked up 554 receptions for 6,105 yards and 31 touchdowns.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit
New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski, who underwent surgery earlier in February to repair torn ankle ligaments suffered during the Super Bowl, might not be healed in time to participate when Patriots offseason workouts begin in mid-April.
The Pro-Bowler appeared at an AHL hockey game on Friday night, where he told the Worcester Telegram & Gazette that he's unsure whether his ankle will be mended by April.
"I can’t wait to get back,’’ he said. "I mean, I can’t do anything on my feet right now, but I’m working on my upper body and doing my core workouts because you’re just so motivated. Losing that last game, you want to keep on grinding so when it does happen again you can get the win.’’
Gronkowski drew some criticism after being filmed dancing at a nightclub hours after the Super Bowl loss, but said he was just blowing off steam with his close friends and family.
"It was a great season overall,’’ Gronkowski said. "The whole team gave everything they had - every ounce of sweat, every ounce of blood. I gave everything I had from the [AFC Championship game against Baltimore] to the New York Giants game. You just give every single ounce of sweat.
"I mean, it just happened I was with my family and my friends, people I hadn’t seen for over a year, and we were just having a fun time together. Obviously, the emotion . . . you don’t want to lose that game. You don’t play that long and get to the Super Bowl and want to lose. Obviously, that was an emotional game.’’
For more Patriots coverage, visit our team page or our blog Pats Pulpit.
As they always do during the offseason, the New England Patriots appear to be taking their time with signing free agents, even when one of the most key players to the team's success in 2011 set to hit the open market.
All-Pro wide receiver Wes Welker could command a high dollar contract this offseason, but has been focused on staying in the spot where his career took off, in New England. Welker put up another fantastic season with the Patriots with 122 receptions for 1,569 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in 2011. However, it appears that things aren't going to swell in the opening stages of contract negotiations.
According to Ian Rapoport of the Boston Herald, the two sides continue discussing a possible long term contract that would keep the 31-year-old-to-be in New England for many years, but there isn't significant progress being made. More from the Rap Sheet:
The talks do not appear to have gone smoothly. Discussions between his representatives and the Patriots have not yet included a breakthrough, a source said. (via Boston Herald)
Despite the rumored long term extension talks, sources are still adamant that the Patriots will most likely end up applying the franchise tag on Welker, which would only bring the star receiver back for one more season on a high salary base.
If I'm the Patriots, I try and lock Welker up this offseason for two reasons. One, he'll likely give them a little bit of leeway in discussions because of his desire to stay here. However, the biggest reason is because he's only a small fish in a big pound of receivers this offseason. Snag him now while his value is lower than it will be next season, where he could be the only headline making receiver on the open market.
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit
Patriots defensive end Andre Carter was signed to a one-year deal with the New England Patriots for the 2011 season after spending the previous 10 years with the 49ers and Redskins. In his one year with the Patriots, Carter led the team in quarterback pressures with 22 and tied for the lead in sacks with 10 before his year was cut short in Week 15 with a season-ending quad injury.
According to WEEI.com's Christopher Price, Carter's agent, Carl Poston, says that his client is ahead of schedule in rehab and would like to return to the Patriots for the 2012 season.
"He's rehabbing. He's in good shape. He wants to play," Poston said of Carter, who will turn 33 in May. "We're just kind of monitoring and tracking his injury, and when it's time to talk they're going to let me know. I just called them to see what their plans were, to see if they were interested, and I would have been surprised if they said they weren't interested. Obviously, they said they were interested, but it's a little premature, a little early, and I understood that. In terms of being a professional and doing my job, I just wanted to kind of call them and see where we stood."
Poston went on to say that everything went the way that Carter wanted it to go, except for his season-ending injury, of course, and that if he were healthy throughout the playoffs, he could have made a difference in the Super Bowl because of how close the game was.
For more on the Patriots, head to Pats Pulpit, and for more on the Patriots offseason, follow SB Nation Boston's stream.
Nick Caserio, director of player personnel for the personnel for the New England Patriots, spoke to reporters at the 2012 NFL Scouting Combine on Thursday. When asked about negotiations with unrestricted free agent Wes Welker, Caserio didn't reveal much, except to say that the two sides were still in in negotiations.
"We've had conversations with our free agents at different points, whether it was in the fall. We'll continue that dialogue," Caserio said. "We have until March 13 until free agency begins. So we'll do our due diligence, we'll go through the process and see where we end up."
Caserio's reply remained in line with the Pats' usual tight-lipped style. Re-signing Welker should be a priority, however, consider how prolific he has been over the years. That, or the Pats are simply biding their time until they throw the franchise tag on the receiver and call it a day. Either way, it is highly unlikely that Welker simply falls by the wayside.
For more on the Patriots, head over to Pats Pulpit.
The New England Patriots announced Wednesday that they have released offensive lineman Rich Ohrnberger and defensive tackle Mike Wright (via WEEI).
Wright (6-4, 295) was signed by the Patriots after he was undrafted out of Cincinnati in 2005. Wright played in just one game last season before being sidelined with a concussion and being placed on injured reserve. During his seven seasons with New England, Wright made 133 tackles (99 solo), 15 sacks and forced four fumbles in 81 games (22 starts). The release of Wright could mean the end of his career. The defensive lineman has had both of his last two seasons ended by concussions.
Ohrnberger (6-2, 300) was selected by the Patriots out of Penn State in the fourth round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played in just five games (no starts) for New England in three seasons.
From more on the Patriots, visit our team page and our blog, Pats Pulpit.
Earlier this week, New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady lost a dear friend and mentor in Tom Martinez, who passed away on Tuesday night after complications with his heart. Martinez was 66.
On Wednesday, Brady broke his silence and released a statement over his Facebook page regarding his longtime mentor.
"I am deeply saddened by the passing of my coach, mentor and friend. Coach Martinez's invaluable assistance and support will never be forgotten and will always have a lasting impact on my life. The time we spent together remain some of my fondest memories. His legacy of commitment, toughness and determination will live on forever." (via Tom Brady's Facebook Page)
Tom Martinez, the mentor of New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, has reportedly died at the age of 66 on Tuesday. Martinez, who lived to his 66th birthday on Tuesday, died of complications from diabetes and cancer. Martinez announced that he was given one month to live on June 12, 2011. Martinez continued to fight and battled for months.
Martinez served as the head coach of the College of San Mateo football team, a position he held until 2005, when he stepped down due to health complications. Legendary coaches such as Bill Walsh and John Madden have also coached at the College of San Mateo.
Every offseason, Martinez would help Brady work on his mechanics. He also helped JaMarcus Russell prior to the 2007 NFL Draft, but he blamed the Oakland Raiders for ruining him. In his youth, he also helped John Elway.
The Iowa Hawkeyes football team has hired former New England Patriots tight ends coach, Brian Ferentz as an assistant coach, the team announced (via Hawkeyes Sports)
Former University of Iowa football players LeVar Woods and Brian Ferentz have been named fulltime assistant coaches on the Hawkeye football staff. Woods has been named linebacker coach, while Ferentz will coach the offensive line. The staff announcements were made Saturday by head coach Kirk Ferentz.
Brian Ferentz is the son of the head coach of the Hawkeyes, Kirk Ferentz. Brian spent the last four years of his career with the New England Patriots. In 2008 he was a scouting assistant before becoming a coaching assistant in 2009; then an offensive assistant in 2010, and finally the tight ends coach in 2011, coaching Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez.
Ferentz graduated from Iowa in 2005.
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The 2011 New England Patriots made it all the way to Super Bowl XLVI, but like in Super Bowl XLII, they lost to the Giants. The team as a whole played very well, especially on offense, but there are major holes on the roster that the Patriots need to fill if they want to have another shot at the big game in 2012.
The Pats managed to sack the opposing quarterback 40 times throughout the 2011 regular season which put them in the middle of the pack in the league but they could have used more considering their secondary was one of the worst in the NFL. A lot of pressure on the quarterback helps limit any weaknesses in a secondary and CBSSports.com's Pete Prisco feels that the Patriots should look to boost their pass rushing ability in free agency.
In an article in which he listed a free agent that would fit well on each team, he said that the Patriots and defensive end Cliff Avril would be a good fit.
This is a team that needs to get better at rushing the passer and Avril is a young player who is coming off an 11-sack season. They have to work on fixing that defense.
In SB Nation's latest mock draft, the Patriots select a defensive end, Fletcher Cox, at No. 27, and a cornerback, Alfonzo Dennard at no. 31. It's unlikely that the team could acquire Avril because Detroit will likely use the franchise tag on him if they feel that they may not be able to work out a long-term deal.
For more on the Patriots, heat to Pats Pulpit.
In news that will shock no one, NFL Network draft guru Mike Mayock said today in a conference call with the media that the New England Patriots should find help for their defense with their two first-round picks in the 2012 NFL Draft.
Mayock was asked specifically if there was anything from their Super Bowl loss to the New York Giants that reflected draft day needs. Mayock responded with the bigger picture, begging the questioner to look at the complete body of the Patriots’ work from this season.
And just what kind of defensive help did Mayock suggest for the Pats?
I was kind of happy to see the return of defense in the playoffs and the Super Bowl, but let’s be honest about it, there are a lot of teams, including the Patriots, that want a track meet every week, which means you have to rush the quarterback and you have to defend on the back end. I think those are the two areas of need that kind of cry out for some help in the draft for the Patriots.
As far as offensive help, Mayock suggested the Patriots find a vertical threat for their offense, a complement to what Bill Belichick has done with Wes Welker and his two tight ends.
For more Patriots coverage, check out Pats Pulpit. For complete 2012 NFL Draft coverage, head over to SB Nation’s draft page.
Albert Haynesworth is without a job. Again. The former New England Patriots defensive ... you know what, he doesn't even deserve a position title. The former Patriots mooch was dropped again, this time by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
New England released Haynesworth in the middle of this last season after he had a whopping two tackles. Haynesworth then signed on with the Buccaneers and started well, but once again, an NFL team didn't see any value left in him.
"I appreciate Albert playing for us after some key injuries this past season," Bucs general manager Mark Dominik said in a press release. "He was very professional and we now wish him all the best as he moves forward." (via WEEI)
Professional? Well, he was in New England. Lazy? That's probably a better word to describe it. Either way, it's starting to look like Haynesworth's days playing football (or being on rosters) are coming to and end. It just hasn't been Haynesworth it.
The New England Patriots have a lot of offseason questions to answer, and one of them has to deal with the future of unrestricted-free-agent wide receiver Wes Welker. Well, according to the Boston Globe's Greg Bedard, who joined a Miami sports-talk radio show, Armando and Perkins, Monday, the Patriots are planning to use the franchise tag on the Pro-Bowl receiver.
"He's going to be tagged, that I know for pretty much certain," said Bedard, who clarified that it's the franchise tag the Pats would use. "If they don't, he's going to sign with the Jets and they're going to have to try and cover him twice a year, or the Dolphins ... They want him back. I don't see why things would change now, but the way it stood before the Super Bowl, they're going to tag him."
Bedard also mentioned what Welker could do if the franchise tag is slapped on him.
Bedard said once the franchise tag goes on Welker he can see, "another Logan Mankins situation where Welker doesn't report until Week 8 of next season."
Last season, Welker caught a league-best 122 receptions, but was one of the goats in the Patriots 21-17 Super Bowl loss to the Giants, as he failed to haul in a catchable pass from quarterback Tom Brady in the fourth quarter.
From more on the Patriots, visit Pats Pulpit.
Bill Belichick, along with professional partner Ricky Barnes, came within three strokes of winning the 2012 AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am on Sunday. Unfortunately, glory was snatched away from him for the second time this week, with the pairings of Brian Harman and Gregg Ontiveros, and Padraig Harrington and J.P. McManus going on to split the amateur title.
The New England Patriots have a lot of offseason work to do after losing their second straight Super Bowl to the New York Giants last Sunday, 21-17. And former Pats' linebacker, now NFL Network analyst, Willie McGinest thinks that one of the first things New England should do is target soon-to-be-free-agent wide receiver Reggie Wayne.
Surprisingly, McGinest told the Boston Herald that Wayne said he'd be up for the idea:
"It came up in the conversation would [Wayne] ever want to play for the Patriots," McGinest told the Herald. "He smiled and said, ‘Who wouldn’t want to play there?’
"If it could have worked with Chad (Ochocinco), it would have been good. It didn’t. I just think (Tom Brady) has a lot of weapons, but he can always use that stretch-the-field receiver."
Following the New England Patriots' Super Bowl XLVI loss to the Giants, many players on the roster are trying to move on from the team's second straight loss in the big game, including cornerback Kyle Arrington.
While he was back in Massachusetts this weekend to help raise money for a fallen firefighter, Arrington spoke with the Boston Globe about the team's heartbreaking loss. Arrington says he he's tried not to think about the team's loss, saying that "you can't think about the past". More from Arrington:
"That's our goal every year. It's always one step at a time: win our division, get a spot in the playoffs. Anything short of not winning it all - I won't say it wasn't a successful season, but our goal wasn't reached. It wasn't attained." (via Boston Globe)
Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski recently underwent successful ankle surgery after suffering a high ankle sprain during the AFC Championship Game on January 22nd.
According to a report on WEEI.com, it appears the recovery period for Gronkowski's procedure will be between four and six weeks.
With football season now over, New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick now has an opportunity to take a break from his coaching duties and work on his golf game. I know it sounds cliche, but that's exactly what he did.
Belichick, if you didn't already know is participating in this weekend's Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Belichick, who is paired with golf pro Ricky Barnes, is tied for ninth in the event with a score of -8 in the event. However, it wasn't his golf game that was drawing attention, it was his outfit. Yes, even in the offseason, BB wears a hoodie. Check a photo of Belichick in his stylish cut off hoodie (courtesy of SB Nation's FB page) after the jump.
While many New England Patriots players are saying this is only just the beginning of their Super Bowl runs, it's most likely the end for the longest tenured player on the roster.
On Friday, long time Patriots running back Kevin Faulk sat down with NESN to talk about his 13-year NFL career and the Patriots' 21-17 loss to the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLVI. A lot of people thought the Super Bowl would be Faulk's last game, turns out he didn't even play. Faulk talked about the disappointment he felt about being inactive for the big game.
"That morning, when I got the word that I wasn't going to dress, wow," said Faulk. "I went in the room, cried a little bit, because 75 percent of me knew that this could be my last game playing, not playing, just dressing. If I dress there could possibly be that chance that I could play. So that really crushed me a whole lot." (via NESN)
New England Patriots president Jonathan Kraft went on ESPN Boston Radio on Friday afternoon and spoke at length on the Patriots' offseason, the recent video that shows tight end Rob Gronkowski dancing at the post-Super Bowl party and about Wes Welker's contract.
Gronkowski was seen in video and photos dancing at a Super Bowl after party, which raised some questions about the seriousness of his injured ankle and his work ethic with the team considering he had just lost the Super Bowl. However, Kraft had nothing but good things to say about his record-setting tight end.
"I actually have only heard about it, I haven't seen the video," Kraft said of Gronkowski, who has been put in the spotlight in recent days as video and photos surfaced of him dancing at the team's party after losing Super Bowl XLVI. "I was long gone from the party when that took place.
"The one thing I do know is the guy absolutely is 100 percent a passionate, passionate competitor when it comes to football. He loves football. He wants to win. He wants to get better. He doesn't like losing. ... He's an ultimate competitor, we're excited he's on our football team.
"The team did accomplish a lot this year, and unfortunately we fell just a little bit short of the ultimate goal. I do think he and the other players probably have different ways of both celebrating what we were able to achieve and then dealing with the disappointment of that night. I think it's hard to personalize how any individual would deal with that and then project it on someone else."
The biggest free agent that could leave the Patriots is by far their most talented wide receiver, Wes Welker, who was second in the league behind Calvin Johnson in the regular season with 1,569 yards. When asked if the team would be able to bring back Welker, Kraft simply said, "At a high level, Wes is a really special person, both as a guy off the field as well as the football player. Hopefully something will work out there."
One estimate has the Patriots at $20 million under the cap and Kraft said that he feels the team is in good shape to do what they need to do to stay competitive. He said that over the last 18 seasons in which there has been a salary cap, the Patriots have attempted to keep themselves in a position to do what they need to do to stay competitive long term and tried to avoid making short-term deals. He said ,"It's a fine line to walk. We spend a lot of time managing that."
He also said that Bill Belichick and the rest of the Patriots coaches have been working hard since July and got to work on the 2012 season the moment they got back from Indianapolis. Even though they had Friday off, they get right back to work on Monday.
"The coaches met at the end of last week once we got back from Indy, evaluated our roster and talked about where we thought everybody was," Kraft said. "That will now lead into a process that will take us to free agency. The coaches are deservedly taking today off. They've pretty much worked non-stop since July. They're off today. They'll be back in at the beginning of the week and get cooking on free agency."
From more on the Patriots, visit Pats Pulpit.
New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski spent his Thursday night courtside watching the Boston Celtics host the Los Angeles Lakers, bathing in a standing ovation from the TD Garden crowd and listening to Kobe Bryant's pitch that the tight end should join the Philadelphia Eagles.
Friday morning, Gronkowski reportedly underwent arthroscopic surgery to repair his injured ankle.
A source told Sports Business Journal's Liz Mullen that Gronkowski's surgery was successful and he is expected to take 10 weeks to recover.
After mustering just two catches for 26 yards and zero touchdowns in a 21-17 Super Bowl loss to the New York Giants, Gronkowski made noise while being caught on camera dancing the night away at a nightclub. Just hours after the Super Bowl defeat, Gronkowski and teammate Matt Light were shirtless dancing at a bar.
Furious callers to radio stations WEEI and 98.5 The Sports Hub questioned Gronkowski's commitment, but the fact that he played the Super Bowl on an ankle that needs 10 weeks of rehabilitation should go a long way toward repairing whatever bits of his reputation were lost on that dance floor.
For more Patriots coverage, visit our team page or our blog Pats Pulpit.
The Patriots made headlines the night before the Super Bowl when they released wide receiver Tiquan Underwood and promoted defensive end Alex Silvestro from the practice squad. Now the team has re-signed Underwood for the 2012 season (via Boston Herald).
Underwood was not released for disciplinary reasons (the pre-Super Bowl release was actually the third time he was released during the season) and would have likely received a ring and bonus money if the Patriots had won the Super Bowl against the Giants. The team decided it needed defensive line depth which was the reason for the release of Underwood.
Kevin Faulk is undecided about his future in the NFL, as the longest tenured member of the New England Patriots is facing a tough decision about whether or not he should continue his career. Faulk took to Twitter to address the issue.
Faulk was inactive for Super Bowl XLVI, and the 13-year veteran of the NFL saw very limited playing time for the Pats this past season. In seven games in 2011, Faulk had 57 rushing yards and zero touchdowns on 17 carries. In his career, which began in 1999 with the Patriots, he has racked up 3,607 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns on 864 carries in 161 games.
The following is a full transcript of New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft's season-ending address following the team's 21-17 loss to the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLVI. Courtesy of ESPN Boston.
"I want to take this opportunity just to say thank you to all the media here who has done such a great job covering us all year. Also to the fans, when we dedicated this season to my sweetheart, I met with the players and coaches and asked them to do everything they could do to make this season special in her honor. The fact we had 18 undrafted free agents, and we're changing the team, and we started our 5-3, I think our fans were just terrific the way they stayed with us.
"I must tell you, the strength of spirit that I saw with this team is unlike any other team I've seen in my 18 years in the NFL. I think that sense of spirit was ignited by our fans, the way they supported our team and also the way they supported our family. That's something I'm forever going to be grateful for, because I think this was a memorable season and one that I won't forget for a long time.
"You have a six percent chance of going to the Super Bowl and a 3 percent chance of winning. I think the coaching staff and players really did a remarkable job this year.
"I thought back, this is our 18th year of ownership of the team, and in those 18 years, we've had two seasons that are losing seasons - 1995 when we went 6-10 and 2000 when we went 5-11. In the next 16 years, we were able to have winning [or .500] seasons - we went to seven AFC Championship games and six Super Bowls. I think what's happened is that we've set a level of expectation here that is high. I'm very happy with that and it's the way we run all of our businesses.
"I'm actually very excited about the core group of players we have on this team, about the young players that have come in, and I'm also excited that we have two 1s and two 2s in this upcoming draft. So I really want to say to those fans who supported us all year and who came out even now, even though we arrived early, it's just unbelievable to me. I felt it all week. It's the first time I've ever spent eight days in Indianapolis and there were a lot of wonderful Patriots fans there, and they've continued to support our team and our family.
"We're not going to change the way we run things. Look, we're all disappointed in what happened. The beauty of the NFL, and, I can say this as chair of the broadcast committee, the reason the networks pay us the large fees they do is that no one knows what is going to happen in a game -- head coach, quarterback, owner, d-linemen. No one knows. It's two or three plays that make the difference but makes the game so exciting.
"I'm very proud of this team and what they accomplished this year and I will forever remember the special effort and support that the fans have given to my family and to this team. And I thank you all for the coverage."
For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit
Rob Gronkowski Injury Update: Patriots Tight End Reportedly Does Not Participate In Thursday's OTA
Tight end Rob Gronkowski did not take part in the New England Patriots' OTA on Thursday as he continues to recover from offseason ankle surgery, according to a report from ESPN's Mike Reiss.
Gronkowski underwent surgery in February to repair multiple torn ligaments in his ankle after getting injured during the third quarter of the Patriots' AFC Championship Game against the Baltimore Ravens. He returned to that game and played two weeks later in the Super Bowl, but was clearly hobbled by the injury.
The initial timetable for Gronkowski's injury was 10 weeks, which would have meant he would be able to participate in team activities as early as the end of April.
With fellow tight end Daniels Fells joining Gronkowski on the sideline, defensive end Alex Silvestro spent some time with the tight ends.
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May 24 3:28p by Jay King