Patriots Daily

By Bruce Allen, Patriots Daily Staff

This week will see the roster cut down twice, on Tuesday to 75 and Saturday to the 53-man roster. You’ll see a few moves after that before opening day (I believe that both the Richard Seymour and Lawyer Milloy moves actually both came after the 53 man rosters were originally set.) By next Sunday, players will be eligible for the eight-man practice squad.

Working off of the excellent work done by ESPN Boston Student Assistant Mike Rodak, we came up with the following squad.

Zac Robinson

The list will not be 100% accurate, as you can be pretty sure that they will grab a few players that are released from rosters around the league, perhaps seeking an developmental outside linebacker or defensive lineman that might fall by the wayside. Keep in mind also that players released by the Patriots could also be grabbed up by other teams, either to the active roster, or to that team’s practice squad.

• QB Zac Robinson – The seventh round pick seems an obvious candidate, but could also be grabbed by another team.

• RB Thomas Clayton – It would seem logical that the team would want to keep another running back around as well.

• TE Rob Myers – With just the three tight ends on the active roster, keeping another stashed away makes sense.

• OL George Bussey – The second year lineman has been hurt this camp. He was an offseason award winner, so he might get to stick around if not placed on IR.

• OL Ted Larsen - Could make the team, but seems more likely to be a PS candidate.

• DL Kyle Love – A defensive line project.

• LB Dane Fletcher – Inside linebacker project.

• S Sergio Brown – The safety from Notre Dame has had his moments in camp. He’s a long shot to make the team, but if cut, I think the Patriots will look to retain him.

By Bruce Allen, Patriots Daily Staff

These are two guys whose situations couldn’t be more different, but both have been on my mind quite a bit this week.

First, lets talk for a minute about Logan Mankins.

Neither Mankins nor his agent are doing themselves any favors these days. After rejecting the Patriots offer earlier this summer, one that is reported to have been a seven year, $45.5 million deal ($6.5 million average). Mankins considered that a slap in the face compared to what Jahri Evans got from the Saints – a seven-year, $56.7 million deal ($8.1 million average). More than that, Mankins expressed outrage at what he felt was a betrayal and that he had been lied to by the team and ownership.

The Patriots have wisely been silent on the matter, but Mankins’ agent and friends have spoken up several times, such as to Ian Rapoport in today’s Herald.

The latest ploy appears to be Don’t think Logan needs money! He doesn’t spend money! He’s got every dime he made in his career! He has a fully paid for, sustainable farm! (How’d he do that without spending money?) He’ll sit out the season without hesitation! He’s got the money!

Yet, I thought this wasn’t about money. How about these huge offenses that the Patriots have allegedly committed against Mankins? Will they ever come out? All Rapoport alludes to is a supposed promise to pay Mankins more than Evans. But it’s not about the money! He doesn’t need the money!

Whatever. Mankins can sit out the season and hope that the new CBA makes him a free agent, but I don’t think that is likely to happen. He’s only damaging his own earning power with this stance.

**************************

Tyrone McKenzie

Tyrone McKenzie is a guy you want to succeed. His story is well-documented by this point, you’re aware of his college career at three schools, and working nights to care for his sick mom, and the knee injury that wiped out his rookie season. We’re big fans of McKenzie because he gave Patriots Daily an exclusive interview – before he talked to the mainstream press this offseason.

McKenzie has been healthy this preseason, and has played in the two preseason games thus far, but in the eyes of many reporters covering the team, he is on the roster bubble. Most seem to be basing this on when McKenzie has come into the two games. He’s been among the latter linebackers to enter the game, even behind the immortal Eric Alexander this past week.

When making their assessments, reporters are placing a lot of emphasis on the special teams ability of players like Alexander and the versatility of a player like Thomas Williams, who has lined up at fullback a few times in camp.

I’m not fully on board with those assessments. In the Bill Belichick era, finding young players who can play inside linebacker has been a constant challenge. In the first part of the decade, it wasn’t so much an issue with Tedy Bruschi, Ted Johnson and Roman Phifer here. We knew in the back of our heads that those players were getting along in years and that replacements would be needed, but none could be found until Jerod Mayo was drafted in 2008. The media spouted the thought for several years that “Bill Belichick doesn’t drafted linebackers early” – until of course, he did. Some free agents were tried out (Monty Beisel, anyone?) and failed.

Clearly, finding talent at inside linebacker is a challenge. McKenzie appears to have talent. He also seems like a pretty smart player. I can’t swear to it, but I believe he’s been seen wearing the green dot on his helmet, indicating that he is the one receiving the defensive calls when he is in the game. I really, really don’t think that the Patriots are going to discard a player with potential at such a key position on their defense simply because some other guys can play special teams or line up at fullback.

As for why he’s coming into the games so late, I think it is a combination of things – he is still coming back from a severe knee injury, he’s being eased back into game action after not having played a real game in nearly two years, the team clearly wants to give Brandon Spikes as much playing time as feasible in the preseason to get him ramped up to be the starter on opening day, and the green dot – I think they want to have him learn the play calls, but putting him in at the end of the game perhaps makes it a bit easier to get some practice in with doing it.

I still think the Patriots will find a way to keep McKenzie on the team.

By Bruce Allen, Patriots Daily Staff

So we spent quite a bit of time doing those positional previews heading into the start of training camp, but we already need to make a few adjustments. There are several players we talked about in those previews, who are already not going to be a part of the 2010 Patriots, and some others who have their status in doubt. Let’s review.

The Patriots Need Something, Anything, From Ron Brace

G Logan Mankins – Holdout

The bombs continue to be lobbed by the Mankins camp, but they look less and less powerful and more and more desperate as the days go on. Mankins situation is not garnering the public sympathy that perhaps his agent had counted on, and unless there is an adjustment in their camp in terms of demands, it seems the Patriots are prepared to go into the season without Mankins.

LB Shawn Crable – Waived

After two years of not being able to get onto the field, the third year linebacker from Michigan apparently showed up out of shape and unable to pass the conditioning test. He was cut the day before training camp started. At the time, Bill Belichick left the door slightly open for a return for Crable if he got himself in shape. Given that the team is already thin at outside linebacker and has some guys banged up, I don’t see them giving him another shot. This third round pick is a complete washout.

WR David Patten – Retired

The likable veteran had a memorable retirement press conference, stating that he just didn’t have the love and desire that he felt he needed for the game. He was a longshot to make the roster, but he likely saw the strong performances and potential of guys like Brandon Tate and Taylor Price and saw the writing on the wall. He went out on his terms.

OL  Nick Kaczur – Injured

Projected to fill the void left by Logan Mankins’ holdout, Kaczur suffered a back injury that has kept him off the field. It seems inevitable that he will be placed on IR, but the hasn’t made it official just yet. Dan Connolly has been serviceable in the guard spot, and whether they can find another veteran guard might determine Kaczur’s fate for the season.

DL Ty Warren - on Injured Reserve

Michael Felger would like to blame Warren’s injury on the defensive lineman’s decision to finish up his college degree this offseason, marking perhaps the first time a player has been criticized in the media for doing so. Warren suffered a hip injury that requires surgery. He was placed on IR, and his loss is a big blow to the team. Gerard Warren looks to take his place in the starting lineup, but who will be on the other side of Vince Wilfork?

WR Torry Holt – on Injured Reserve

The veteran receiver was brought in as insurance against Wes Welker’s return and the development of the young receivers. With both situations looking promising, it probably wasn’t a hard choice for the team to put Holt on IR when he suffered a knee injury that needs surgery. Probably better than cutting a guy who has had the terrific career that Holt has had. Is this the end of the line? We’ll see.

The loss of Warren obviously hurts the most, as the depth at that position is challenged. Second year lineman Ron Brace just started practicing, and he needs to make a huge leap if he hopes to remain on the roster, any improvement in his play would be a positive for the position. The cutting of Crable was likely a message to other recent draftees (like Brace) that the organization isn’t going to be as patient as perhaps they were in the past with draftees. With this team needing guys who can play, there is less room for “projects.”

By Bruce Allen, Patriots Daily Staff.

Injuries are mounting up.

Cornerbacks can’t cover.

Zoltan can’t punt.

Patriots don’t belong in the same zipcode as the Saints.

(Boston Herald photo)

Those are just a few of the sentiments I’ve heard tossed around today by the local media after the Patriots engaged in a practice (we’re talking about practice here, PRACTICE. Not a game, PRACTICE.) with the Super Bowl champs.

In other words, it seems the Patriots have a lot of work to do.

A little more detail on the above concerns:

Injuries to Ty Warren and Nick Kaczur appear to be the most serious, with Warren reportedly considering hip surgery, and Kaczur reportedly telling teammates he might miss the entire season. Gary Guyton remains out, and Leigh Bodden did not participate this morning either.

Kaczur’s absence combined with the Mankins holdout has left Dan Connolly holding the bag at guard. Ian Rapoport payed attented this morning and noted the following:

I watched G Dan Connolly a bunch and he seems to be working hard. But he did seem to struggle with some of the Saints DLs like Will Smith. He’ll get his hands on a guy, but doesn’t move people. Speaking of that…

– Of all the things the Patriots did well, they seemed to struggle to run the ball. And it didn’t seem to be the RBs fault. There just wasn’t room. This team needs Logan Mankins.

More from Ian Rapoport:

The Patriots secondary seemed to pick up where it left off in New Orleans, as it watched the Saints receivers catch passes at will. That wasn’t great news. But perhaps it was a product of the lack of pressure. The hope is that this isn’t a theme.

Well, isn’t that great.

Those two statements from Rapoport, who we’re repeatedly praised as one of the more level-headed guys on the beat, were not encouraging.

On Twitter, the very first tweet following the practice from @MikeReiss was this:

When the punter is the first thing you mention about the practice…it must’ve been bad.

Tom E Curran on WEEI this afternoon stated that the Patriots are not even in the same zipcode, football-wise with the New Orleans Saints, and it showed on the field.(His actual practice report for CSNNE.com was much more positive, however.)

Maybe we just have rabbit ears for the negative, because apparently there was plenty of positive today as well. The Patriots offense had their way with the Saints defense, Pepper Johnson talked about how well things are working out with the coaching staff, even saying that the no coordinator situation is a blessing in disguise. Rapoport had plenty of positives in his review. Christopher Price was impressed once again with Aaron Hernandez.

Best of all – EA Sports says Patriots will win Super Bowl XLV

So it wasn’t all bad.

By Bruce Allen, Patriots Daily Staff

We’re hearing a lot about the talent exodus from Foxborough in recent years, and about the Patriots’ failures in adequately drafting replacements. Well, the 2009 draft class showed some promise last season, and gave hope that there might be a new generation of Patriots starting to form. Is this going to be a 1995 draft (Ty Law, Ted Johnson, Curtis Martin, Jimmy Hitchcock, Dave Wohlabaugh) or a 2003 draft (Ty Warren, Eugene Wilson,  Asante Samuel, Dan Koppen, Tully Banta-Cain)? It’s still way too early to tell, but let’s check in on these second year players two weeks into their second training camp with the Patriots.

Round, Overall Pick, Name

Pat Chung Leads a Second Year Group With Potential

2 (34) Pat Chung

Chung has been running with the first team in camp, and getting good reviews from reporters and coaches. Many are projecting him to make a huge leap in his second season, and seize the starting strong safety position across from Brandon Meriweather. He’s been burnt a little bit in the passing game in camp, but as the strong safety his focus is closer to the line. He seems to be on track.

2 (40) Ron Brace

Hoo boy. After a disappointing rookie season, Brace pronounced himself ready to go in his second season, but has yet to actually practice. This morning Nick Caserio stated that Brace has not passed his physical, and Ian Rapoport of the Herald reported that Brace failed the conditioning test. Whether this is the result of an injury, or just being out of shape, this does not bode well for Brace. He’s in danger of being a lost pick in this draft, which would be a killer considering how high he was taken.

2 (41) Darius Butler

The former UConn cornerback has done as expected in camp, mostly lining up with the starters, occasionally splitting time with rookie corner Devin McCourty. His athleticism is still his biggest asset, and he still seems to have the inside track on being the opening day starting cornerback for the Patriots. He’s got a lot of potential, and could be starting to show it. Seems like a good pick here.

2 (58) Sebastian Vollmer

Vollmer was perhaps the Patriots top rookie a year ago, and worked hard this offseason, being named one of the offseason award winners. He appears to be locked in at right tackle, and appears to have been a steal at #58 overall last year.

3 (83) Brandon Tate

Other than Randy Moss/Wes Welker, have you heard any receiver in camp being talked about more than Tate? An injury hampered his rookie season, but now healthy, he’s been making acrobatic catches seemingly every day, and flashing his return skills as well. He is a key, key player for this team this season. The early signs are encouraging. Lets hope he can keep it up and also be a steal.

3 (97) Tyrone McKenzie

Another guy who had lost his rookie season to injury, McKenzie is making up for lost time as he splits time with Brandon Spikes alongside Jerod Mayo in the middle of the Patriots defense. He’s been lauded for some big hits, and the coach has praised his intelligence and ability to read and call defenses. I enjoyed the tidbit from Shalise Manza Young that McKenzie enjoys tweaking Mayo by answering the coaches questions before Mayo can answer them. If he can remain healthy, he’s also looking like a nice third round pick.

4 (123) Rich Ohrnberger

I don’t recall hearing a whole lot about Ohrnberger thus far, but he is an offensive lineman, so perhaps that’s not entirely a bad thing. It’s hard to tell about this pick just yet, though you’d like a fourth rounder to be able to contribute at some point. We’ll keep an eye on him.

5 (170) George Bussey

Another offensive lineman that is hard to keep track of, Bussey did distinguish himself by also being named one of the offseason award winners, so he’s got that going for him. I have some vague recollection of his name being said in a positive manner by one of the coaches, but I can’t be sure. Another to keep an eye on.

6 (198) Jake Ingram

The Patriots thought enough of what Ingram did as a rookie long snapper that they didn’t bring in any competition for him this offseason. Some might think that the sixth round is pretty high to be drafting a long snapper, but they appear to have gotten this one right.

6 (207) Myron Pryor

He was a nice surprise last year, easily leaping past Brace on the depth chart (though it appears now that wasn’t as impressive a feat as it seemed at the time). Pryor has been injured thus far in camp, and so we need to get him back on the field in order to see what progress he’s made. Still, getting some production from a 6th round defensive lineman as a rookie isn’t to be sneezed at.

7 (232) Julian Edelman

It is a tossup between he and Vollmer as the most impressive Patriots rookie of 2009. Edelman made the transition from quarterback to wide receiver and became the team’s third best receiver almost immediately. He also is an offseason award winner, making that three players form this draft to be so honored by the team. He’s going to be counted on this season, but it seems safe to declare this seventh round pick a good one.

7 (234) Darryl Richard

Spent his rookie season on the practice squad, but did receive a bump in salary mid-way through the year. I know that I have heard Bill Belichick mention him in a good way this training camp, but he faces some stiff competition on the defensive line.

Conclusion

The fact that all of these players are still here has to be considered a positive. The failure of Brace is the biggest blot on this class’ record. He might just end up being the first one of his class to be cut, though that’s a bit premature to project at this point. Chung, Butler, Vollmer, Tate, McKenzie and Edelman all show signs of being at the least serviceable NFL players, with some of that group even possibly displaying star potential.

It’s early yet, but the signs are encouraging for this draft class overall.

As we’ve firmly entered the grind of training camp, we thought it would be helpful to gather up all the training camp material Patriots Daily has produced to this point, and give it to you in one handy post. This contains the two columns written thus far, plus all the positional previews.

Major stories in the first few days of camp include the release of Shawn Crable, the no-show of Derrick Burgess, and the retirement of David Patten. On the field, Patrick Chung has apparently been impressing people, despite getting burned on a few pass plays, and every time you read a practice report it seems that Brandon Tate is making a spectacular catch. These are two of the key young players that the team needs to step up in their second year.

Rookie Jermaine Cunningham is suddenly facing much less competition at the outside linebacker position, and from most accounts isn’t embarrassing himself. The rookie tight ends are on record as making some big plays in Tom Brady-led Red Zone attempts, which is a promising development.

The Boys of Late Summer – A Primer – By Scott A Benson

Season Preview: Pessimists vs. Optimists By Dan Zeigarnik

Defensive Previews

Positional Previews – Defensive Line

Positional Previews – Outside Linebackers

Positional Previews – Inside Linebackers

Positional Previews – Safeties

Positional Previews – Cornerbacks

Offensive Previews

Positional Previews – Quarterbacks

Positional Previews – Offensive Line

Positional Previews – Running Backs

Positional Previews – Tight Ends

Postional Previews – Wide Receivers

Special Teams Preview

Positional Previews – Special Teams

What have you seen/heard from camp that sticks out to you so far?

By Bruce Allen, Patriots Daily Staff

Much of the talk about the Patriots this offseason has centered around the quarterback position. Most of it has been annoying. Certain members of the media have dedicated themselves to creating the impression of a chasm between Tom Brady and the Patriots, and creating uncertainty about his future with the Patriots. For this season at the very least, Brady will be the quarterback for your New England Patriots.

On Day 1, Brady's Hair Was The Biggest Story.

Tom Brady

One of the all-time greats, and still one of the best, if not THE best quarterback in the NFL. A year removed from his knee injury should result in a move confident, more accurate Brady this season. While some members of the media were openly rooting for, even encouraging him to hold out to start camp, Brady showed up for training camp on time, and is ready to go. Some have questioned his commitment to the team because of his decision to spend most of the offseason back home in California with his family. Others started rumors of a “disconnect” between he and the team. What we know for sure is that he is here, and as long as that is true, the QB position is in good hands for the New England Patriots.

Brian Hoyer

The undrafted free agent from Michigan State was a surprise in last year’s training camp, beating out the competition to win the backup quarterback spot behind Brady. He was the only QB on the roster other than Brady, showing the trust that the coaching staff held in him right from the start. Hoyer played in five games as a rookie, getting some garbage time duty in a four games, and then splitting his playing time in the season finale against the Texans. Hoyer handled himself pretty well in the time he saw the field, not forcing things, and showing some decent ability to move around. He looks to be the top backup for Brady again this season.

Zac Robinson

The Patriots thought enough of his kid to spent a draft pick on him, selecting him in the seventh round out of Oklahoma State. Robinson had a fine college career and looked good in the Senior Bowl. Some thought he would go higher in the draft, so getting him in the seventh would seem to be a pleasant surprise for the Patriots. He’s a great athlete, able to throw and run with equal skill. His decision-making skills are praised, and appears to be a good prospect to develop behind Brady and Hoyer. Whether that is on the roster or as part of the practice squad remains to be seen, but at first glance, it would seem tough to let him get through waivers to be placed on the practice squad. Do the Patriots carry three quarterbacks this season? That seems to be question.

Summary

This position is not a worry for the Patriots, at least for this season. I believe Brady will get a new contract from the Patriots, perhaps even before the season begins. Hopefully at that time, all the drama, speculation and silliness surrounding his future with the team will be put to rest. Should something happen to Brady injury-wise, Hoyer is developing nicely into at least a stop-gap option and Robinson shows some potential for future development.

By Bruce Allen, Patriots Daily Staff

The Patriots did not add to their stable of running backs this offseason, choosing to return with the same crew that took the field in the 2009 season. A very veteran group, health and performance is again a concern at this position.

Laurence Maroney

Patriots Best Hope At Running Back?

The enigmatic Maroney enters his fifth NFL season just as much of a mystery and frustration as when he was a rookie, splitting time with Corey Dillon. Is this the season he finally seizes the lead back role and fulfills his potential? He’s got a lot of skeptics to win over, including it seems, the head coach, who is not shy about benching Maroney after a fumble or bad play. At his best, Maroney is a fast, elusive and yet punishing runner. At his worst, he is tepid and indecisive. Entering the final year of his contract, it will be interesting to see if he is motivated this season to finally put it all together. If so, the Patriots could be in good shape here.

Fred Taylor

Injured much of last season (a recurring theme in his career), Taylor had a few good moments for the Patriots, and apparently showed enough to be brought back for another season. It’s hard to tell how much he has left, but his professionalism and work ethic are qualities that the possesses are perhaps traits that the team wishes would rub off more on Maroney. As his career winds down, hopefully Taylor can have a for more great moments with a team in the hunt.

Sammy Morris

Throughout his Patriots career, Morris has been a guy who, when healthy has been fun to watch. He runs hard, and has been used as a hybrid-fullback type on occasions. He’s a punishing runner who has also had his share of injuries over the last few seasons. Healthy, he is a valuable weapon to have in the offense.

Kevin Faulk

The Troy Brown of running backs. Faulk is one of the all-time great Patriots. Who would’ve imagined we’d be saying that in 2010 while watching him as a rookie under the Pete Carroll-led 1999 Patriots? Faulk is perhaps the ultimate third-down weapon. He can run it when needed, but his biggest strength is helping on the blitz, and then releasing underneath or heading out on the screen pass. He’s getting up there in age, and will be sorely missed when it comes time to say good-bye. Enjoy watching him while you can.

BenJarvus Green-Ellis

He’s out lasted all of his namesakes on the Patriots. Ben (Watson) Jarvus Green-Ellis (Hobbs) is entering his third season with the Patriots, and remains someone that a certain segment of fans clamors for, confident he can be the answer to the team’s running attack. As a spot player, he’s fine, a pretty strong North-South runner. Probably not the long term solution.

Others

Chris Taylor

Taylor spent last season on IR for the Patriots. He’s actually been in the NFL since 2006, and once had 99 yards and a touchdown in an NFL game (for Houston at Cleveland). He’ll get a look in camp, not expected to be a serious candidate to make the final roster, unless there is an injury or he completely wows the coaches.

Thomas Clayton

Signed this offseason after being released by the 49ers, Clayton is another roster longshot. He’s looked good in the preseason in the past for San Francisco, but has been a practice squad or IR guy for his career.

Eric Kettani

Signed in 2009 as an undrafted free agent, Kettani is currently on the Reserve/Military list.

Summary

With the age and health of this group a concern, it’s hard to label this position as a definite strength for the Patriots at this time. Like so many other positions, the talent and potential are there, but unless Maroney can leap up and grab the lead back role and remain healthy, it’s going to be another year of running back by committee.

By Bruce Allen, Patriots Daily Staff

Talk about position turnover. The Patriots motto at tight end this offseason was “Out with 2009, In with 2010.” Gone are last year’s tight ends Benjamin Watson and Chris Baker, and in are veteran Alge Crumpler and rookies Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez.

Rob Gronkowski - Can He Stay Healthy?

It’s a little difficult, in fact, to analyze this position as we have yet to see any of them suit up for the Patriots.

Alge Crumpler

Entering his 10th NFL season, Crumpler has undergone a transformation in his career from pass-catching tight end to blocking tight end. This has coincided with his already huge frame getting even bigger. This offseason, Crumpler has reported rededicated himself to conditioning  and is set to report in the (wait for it…) “best shape of his career.” We’ll see about that. Crumpler was the best of a very limited free agent crop at the position, and figures to be a short term solution while the Patriots train up the rookies. Crumpler is said to be a good mentor and locker room presence, so hopefully that smooths the transition.

Rob Gronkowski

He likely had some fans cringing with his antics after the Patriots drafted him, and his health history is a notable cause for concern. Still, he was too big of a talent to let get by in the second round, and his potential both as a receiver and blocker is huge. He’s got the size (6-6, 265) to be force. Keeping him healthy is a concern, as it’s never comforting when a guy his size has to miss an entire season with back surgery.

Aaron Hernandez

Hey, did you know Hernandez failed MULTIPLE drug tests in college, but Florida only reported one? We heard that about a million times from a certain Globe reporter this spring. Hopefully Hernandez has put his recreational drug use behind him and begun focusing on using his considerable talents in the Patriots offense. An accomplished pass-catcher, Hernandez could step in and play a big role in this offense immediately. During the spring camps, the Patriots had him all over the field, using him in a variety of ways.

Rob Myers

Perhaps the most noteworthy thing we can say about Myers, who was signed to the practice squad last November, is that he’s been assigned Troy Brown’s #80. That doesn’t to bode well.

Summary

There was plenty of outcry early in the free agent period when the Patriots had only practice squad tight ends under contract. Since the additions of the top three above, things have quieted down, and now there is even a bit of anticipation over the potential of the position. There is speculation that with the occasionally stone-handed Ben Watson out of town that Tom Brady might actually look to the tights ends more often this season. Stop me if this sounds familiar, but the Patriots are relying on young players here, and need them to come though. If they can, Gronkowski and Hernandez could be a formidable duo for seasons to come.

By Bruce Allen, Patriots Daily Staff

On the offensive side of the ball, this position might be the most unpredictable. There is talent here, no question about it, but health (of the older receivers) and inexperience (of the younger receivers) make this position a tough one to gauge at this point. Offseason additions include veterans Torry Holt and old friend David Patten, and rookie Taylor Price. Going into camp, the Patriots have 13 receivers listed on the roster, though two of them are on the Reserve/Military list.

Does Randy Moss Have Another Big Year In Him?

Randy Moss

Made some noise this offseason by changing agents prior to entering what is the final year on his contract. He played in all 16 games last season, the third straight season he’s done so. Put up his usual strong numbers (1262 receiving yards, 13 TD’s) and took the usual shots from the media for perceived lack of effort. Following the season it was revealed that he had been battling several injuries over the course of the season. Most experts believe he is heading downhill, while some say that a contract year will bring out the best in Moss. With the team still trying to develop a number of young wide receivers, they need another big year from Moss. Whether he returns to the Patriots in ’11 is in doubt, but he did end up hiring and agent who has gotten several deals done with the Patriots.

Wes Welker

Welker’s knee injury and recovery from surgery have been one of the best stories of the offseason. Originally it appeared that Welker might be lost for most, if not all of the ’10 season, but recent reports have him being read to go for training camp with the idea of playing right from opening day. Welker has been Tom Brady’s favorite target from the moment he got here. He’s the guy the QB looks to most often. If Welker indeed can play on opening day, it will be huge boost for this offense. You saw what the offense minus Welker looked like in the first Jets game last season as well as the Wild Card playoff game. Without Welker sliding underneath, Brady was impacted by the aggressive pass rush of the defense. With 123 receptions in 14 games, it could be argued that perhaps Brady is too reliant on Walker. Having Welker from the start also bumps down everyone else on the depth chart.

Julian Edelman

A pleasant surprise as a rookie, Edelman made the conversion from college quarterback to NFL receiver seamlessly. When Welker was out, Edelman was thrust into the #2 receiver role, and didn’t embarrass himself. He is described by many as a Welker clone, but he’s bigger and more physical than Welker. His 2nd year development is very important especially if Welker is limited in the early going. He even had two touchdowns in the Wild Card playoff game, one of few Patriots not to completely lay an egg in that one.

Torry Holt

When injuries struck last season, the Patriots were too often forced to turn to the likes of Sam Aiken to line up as a receiver. Holt is the consummate professional, and while he’s not what he once was, he still caught 51 balls for 772 last season for the Jaguars. When the Patriots signed him, some reporters were unable to say “Torry Holt” without “Joey Galloway” also being in the same sentence. The biggest difference is that while Galloway has never been a strong route runner, Holt is. He can still catch the ball, and as long as the Patriots don’t need too much from him, he can be a valuable contributor, and still provide insurance in case of injury. His professionalism should also be asset in dealing with the younger receivers on the roster.

Brandon Tate

Oozing talent and physical gifts, Tate worked hard to return from a college knee injury, got himself activated for the Tampa Bay game in London, only to get injured again the following week against the Dolphins, and miss the rest of the season. If he can be healthy, and offseason reports indicate that he is, Tate is a young player who could have a big role this season as an outside receiver, stretching the field, and on kickoff returns. Tate is one of many first or second year players that is being counted on to step up and become part of the core of the next group of Patriots teams.

Taylor Price

I look at the rookie from Ohio University and think “David Givens.” The 2010 draftee is the same size as Givens was, and looks to be the same style of receiver as well. How he adjusts to the pro game is worth watching, as the college system he played in was not exactly a pro-style offense. He looked good and impressed onlookers in the spring camps, and I’m eager to see him in the preseason. He should get a chance to contribute this season.

David Patten

I’m really, really hoping Patten has a chance to make the team, but the reports that Welker might be ready to start the season might’ve sealed Patten’s fate. I had figured that Welker might be placed on the PUP list, giving Patten a few weeks on the roster to start the season. If there is an injury in the preseason, Patten might have a chance, but otherwise I see him on the outside looking in right now. The former Patriot did not play at all in 2009 after being a training camp cut by the Cleveland Browns. Patten will turn 36 during camp, and while he still has plenty of savvy veteran guile, he’s not the player he was earlier in the decade, when he became the first player in Patriots history to record a touchdown pass, touchdown reception and rush for a touchdown in one game.

Sam Aiken

One of the downfalls of the 2009 Patriots offense was that at too many key moments they had Aiken on the field as a wide receiver. Aiken made a few nice catches, but missed out on far too many others. He’s best utilized at the special teams role he was signed for.

Matthew Slater

Another special teams only guy, Slater should also only see the field as a receiver in a blowout. He’s got some value as a kick returner, but not much as a receiver.

Others

Darnell Jenkins

The Miami product has spent time on the practice squads of the Texans and Browns before being signed to the Patriots practice last season. A long shot at best.

Buddy Farnham

Farnham was an invitee to rookie camp following his career at Brown. He impressed enough to earn a contract and an invite to training camp. Farnham has some potential as a punt returner, and could stick around as a special teams player. He seems more likely to be a practice squad candidate.

Tyree Barnes, Shun White – these two are on the Reserve/Military List after being signed as undrafted free agents in 2009. They are both on active duty in the Navy.

Summary

If Moss and Welker can be healthy, they’re still the best 1-2 receiving combo in the league. Edelman and Holt figure to be big contributors as well, with Tate and Price learning the position and contributing here and there. This has the potential to be a very strong positional group on the roster, but like many others, there are a number of “ifs” and unknowns in play here. Having Welker to start the season would be huge.

By Bruce Allen, Patriots Daily Staff

Now, the other “big fatties.” Because there are so many of them on the roster right now, we’re going to forgo the individual capsules and instead look at each position on the offensive line. Overall this is still a very strong group, even without Logan Mankins, who may never play for the Patriots again after tossing bombs at the Krafts. The Patriots have built in a system for developing offensive lineman under Dante Scarnecchia, they bring guys in, perhaps stash them on the practice squad for a year or two, and work extensively with them on exactly what they need to do under this system.

Sebastian Vollmer

Of course, the priority which trumps all others for the Patriots offensive line is keeping Tom Brady upright and healthy. The last two seasons have been rougher on Brady with the knee injury and the broken ribs, so he’s definitely getting hit more than in the past. That needs to change if the Patriots hope to hold off the historic defenses of the Jets and Dolphins (planes and porpoises) in the AFC East. (That was a little sarcasm there, if you didn’t catch it.)

Centers

Dan Koppen is still the man in the middle of the line, though he gets pushed a little more each year. A bit undersized at the position, Koppen sometimes needs a little help against the bigger nose tackles, but usually still holds his own quite well. The Patriots drafted Ted Larsen in the sixth round this season, and he’s got a bit more bulk than Koppen. Could he possibly be the Patriots center of the future? Koppen was a fifth round pick, so the Patriots have shown that you don’t necessarily need to find a top center at the top of the draft. Dan Connolly has also played some center for the Patriots, though he is more of the utility type on the offensive line.

Guards

Logan Mankins is one of the top guards in the NFL. Unfortunately it seems more and more likely that he’s played his last game for the Patriots after coming out with strong statements against the owners and demanding a trade. If he does play this season, it might be just to get the necessary service time to get through to unrestricted free agent status. The Patriots were able to re-sign Stephen Neal for another two seasons after there were rumors that the former wrestling star was thinking of retirement. Even at his age, Neal continues to perform at a high level. With Mankins out, the Patriots may turn to Nick Kaczur to man the guard spot, moving over from tackle. Mankins’ holdout might even save Kaczur’s job with the Patriots. Second year players Rich Ohrnberger and George Bussey may see more of the field this season, Bussey spent last season on IR. Undrafted free agent signee Ryan Wendell will also get a look, and the Patriots have hopes of developing the next Neal in John Wise, also a converted wrestler.

Tackles

Matt Light remains Brady’s primary bodyguard at left tackle. Though he too may be showing signs of age, he is still the one most responsible for keeping Brady upright. There was some talk in the media of moving Light over to right tackle, but that was quickly dismissed by all involved. Sebastian Vollmer was perhaps the biggest surprise on the Patriots last season, as the second round pick, who many ridiculed as a reach, stepped in and became one of the Patriots top performers on the offensive line. In the game against the Colts, the massive (6-8, 315) Vollmer handled Dwight Freeney exceptionally well. Listed as a tackle, the 6-7 306 lb Mark LeVoir actually took some snaps at guard last season, and also lined up as an eligible receiver on a few plays. Seventh round pick Thomas Welch is another massive (6-7 310) lineman who looks to be a Scarnecchia project this season.

Summary

With or without Mankins, the Patriots offensive line figures to be a solid, if aging, unit. Younger players such as Vollmer, Ohrnberger and perhaps Larsen need to be able to grow into larger roles with the line, eventually stepping in for some of the veterans. The line has been steady pretty much throughout the Belichick era, and figures to be so again this season.

By Bruce Allen, Patriots Daily Staff

The “big fatties” up front are a hallmark of a Bill Belichick 3-4 defense. Last season for the first time since Vince Wilfork was drafted in 2004, the Patriots front three did not start with Wilfork in the middle with Ty Warren and Richard Seymour beside him. Seymour was traded prior to the season opener to the Oakland Raiders. The Patriots plugged in Mike Wright and Jarvis Green into Seymour’s spot, but neither fared well as a full-time player. For a time it looked like perhaps Wilfork might be gone as well, as his contract ran its course and he approached free agency. In the end, he got his new contract, and the Patriots have their biggest piece in the middle of their defense. This offseason, Green was allowed to leave, signing with the Denver Broncos, and the Patriots added a couple of veteran starters to the DL mix, hoping to avoid some of the issues they faced last season.

Here’s a look at the D-lineman currently on the roster, in a semi-arranged depth chart:

Vince Wilfork

Obviously, getting Wilfork re-signed was the Patriots biggest priority of the offseason, though perhaps it wasn’t the huge no-brainer most people thought it was. Number 75 is one of the best in the business, and knows the Patriots defense in and out. With the contract, it’s time for Vince to take on a larger leadership role with the defense. Apparently with his contract situation uncertain, he was at times hesitant to speak up in the turmoil of last season. Hopefully that is all behind him, and he can be the force on the field and in the locker room that this team needs him to be. He occasionally gets handled by the likes of Jeff Saturday, or as in the playoff game against the Ravens. That sort of thing can’t happen either. They need him to be a monster.

Ty Warren

Ty Warren

He’s perhaps a step below what he was a couple of years ago, but Ty Warren is still a very good defensive lineman. He spent this offseason getting his degree, so he wasn’t around the team as much, so might have some catching up to do on the field and with his new teammates. Warren has been here since 2003, so he’s a nice bridge between the old and the new. His experience in the system is valuable and his play on the field is still at a very high level. He also needs to be able to take on more of a leadership role, having been a team captain in the past.

Gerard Warren

Seems the early choice to be the other starter. Warren actually played with Richard Seymour in Oakland last season, and came out in the same draft class as Seymour back in 2001. He was actually picked ahead of Seymour in that draft, going third overall to the Cleveland Browns. He hasn’t had a Seymour-like career, but he has been a solid NFL player over the course of his career, starting almost every game he’s played in, and is very durable, having missed only eight games in nine seasons. He looks to be an improvement over Wright or Green as a starter.

Damione Lewis

He’s another possibility to start, and might at times, depending on the opponent. The former Panther and Ram was also selected in that 2001 draft, going 12th overall. It seems more likely that Lewis is here to fill the Jarvis Green role as a backup lineman who can play multiple positions and get after the quarterback. He’s also got the reputation as a good locker room guy, adding another good influence for the younger guys.

Mike Wright

It’s no knock on Wright that he was asked to do a bit too much last season. He did have some very good games as a starter, including a two-sack performance against the Ravens early in the season. At times he was very good, at others times, he looked like a backup playing as a starter. His versatility on the line make him a big asset to the team, able to fill in on any spot on the line, and he’s shown an ability to get to the quarterback and make plays. Back in his familiar role this season, we can expect another solid year from the Cincinnati product.

Myron Pryor

A decent surprise as a rookie last season, the 2008 sixth round selection looks to build on his first year. He played in 13 games as a rookie, making 23 tackles. He seemed to catch on quickly to the defense, and his development make him someone to watch in camp and during the season.

Ron Brace

By his own admission, Brace was unprepared for NFL life as a rookie and had a hard time adjusting to the pro level. It showed. Drafted out of Boston College to be Wilfork’s potential understudy, Brace played in only eight games, though he did start two late in the season when Wilfork was injured. He’s got the size (6-3 330) for an NFL nose tackle, but needs to make big improvements this season or risk being labeled a 2nd round bust. He’s vowed to be better prepared this season, let’s hope he can make the leap he needs.

Brandon Deaderick

I put Deaderick ahead of the other youngsters below him on this list because he’s got the advantage of having been a starter in Nick Saban’s defense at Alabama. Drafted in the 7th round, Deaderick seems like he might be able to sneak onto the final roster with some strong play in the preseason.

Kade Weston

Drafted with the pick immediately after Deaderick, Weston is another big body (6-5, 315) with solid college credentials. When you get to this point on the depth chart, you’re fighting for the practice squad.

Darryl Richard

Last year’s seventh round pick spent the season on the practice squad. At 6-4, 290, he’s not quite as big as some of the other guys, but his intelligence draws raves from those around him. Could stick around on the PS for another season.

Kyle Love

An undrafted free agent, the 6-1, 310 Love comes from Mississippi State where he played as a true freshman and went on to a solid four year career. He figures as a long shot.

Summary

This group isn’t as good as it was a couple of seasons ago, but still has to be considered among the top units in the league. With Wilfork and Warren starting to get up there in age, it is imperative to develop younger linemen who can come in a contribute. Ron Brace might be the most important in that category. If he can develop into a guy who can spell Wilfork as well as play an end position, it will be a huge boost. Gerard Warren and Lewis provide some veteran stability and experience, giving the youngsters time to develop.