Patriots Life

Tom Brady working a lot with Amendola and Jenkins + more nuggets from OTAs

noreply@blogger.com (Mike Saver) — Tue, 21 May 2013 19:51:00 +0000

photo from Mike Reiss

The Patriots held OTAs today and the media got to watch. As always, they passed along their astute observations on twitter which I've compiled and shared below. Danny Amendola, Vince Wilfork and Aqib Talib talked to the press after practice and Robert Kraft shared some quotes all the way from the owners meetings, where it was decided that San Francisco will host the next Super Bowl.

Without further ado...

#Patriots OTAs: Spikes and Bolden MIA. Gronkowski and Edelman with injury absences. McCourty nursing that shoulder, but present.
— Mary Paoletti (@Mary_Paoletti) May 21, 2013

... Danny Amendola leading presence at WR. Looks quick as advertised. ... TE Jake Ballardparticipating on limited basis; some good run ...
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) May 21, 2013

... Assistant coach Brian Daboll working most closely with OL alongside Dante Scarnecchia ... Marcus Cannon gets initial work at RG.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) May 21, 2013

During special teams drills, saw Tom Brady & QBs working solely with WRs Michael Jenkins and Danny Amendola. Building chemistry.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) May 21, 2013

Among outside WRs, thought Michael Jenkins was most notable presence. One nice sideline grab for rookie Aaron Dobson.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) May 21, 2013

Thought Amendola looked real good. Jenkins had some good moments as did … wait for it … Ras-I Dowling.
— Nick Underhill (@Nick_Underhill) May 21, 2013

Dobson had two really nice catches. Brady spent a lot of time working with Jenkins and Amendola.
— Nick Underhill (@Nick_Underhill) May 21, 2013

Brady spent a TON of time working with Amendola and Jenkins at OTAs today.
— Christopher Price (@cpriceNFL) May 21, 2013

Someone asked Talib how he ended up coming back here: “Signed a contract”
— Nick Underhill (@Nick_Underhill) May 21, 2013

Amendola said he took a pass from Brady in the chest during drills.His thought:'Man, that guy can really wing it.But that's why he's Brady.'
— Mary Paoletti (@Mary_Paoletti) May 21, 2013

Vince on where he's at in his career: "Every year it seems like the more and more you play the more excited you get to come back."
— Nick Underhill (@Nick_Underhill) May 21, 2013

Kraft on one day hosting a Super Bowl: "We would love one day to hold it here if it goes well (in NY/NJ)."
— Ben Volin (@BenVolin) May 21, 2013

(1/2) Amendola on WW comps: "That's not something I need to worry about. I'm worried about the playbook...."
— Christopher Price (@cpriceNFL) May 21, 2013

Kraft says he personally wants the Pro Bowl played in the Super Bowl city.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) May 21, 2013

Robert Kraft said team got positive report from Rob Gronkowski's surgery yesterday
— Mike Rodak (@mikerodak) May 21, 2013

It's been well-documented how big Adrian Wilson is for a safety, but seeing him on the field adds to that thought. He really sticks out.
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) May 21, 2013

Brandon Bolden's absence today was precautionary - suffered ankle sprain in training, but he's expected to return to the field next week
— shalise manza young (@shalisemyoung) May 21, 2013

Asked Kraft about release of Kyle Love. "Do you know I called him Love Bundle? That's what I called him. Love Bundle." And that was all.
— Tom E. Curran (@tomecurran) May 21, 2013

Tedy Bruschi elected to Patriots Hall of Fame

noreply@blogger.com (Mike Saver) — Tue, 21 May 2013 14:05:00 +0000

Congratulations to an all-time great! A well deserved first ballot hall of famer. Bruschi was instrumental in the Patriots three super bowl victories.

Tedy Bruschi has been selected to the Patriots Hall of Fame.
— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) May 21, 2013

Brandon Spikes skips out on Pats OTA's

noreply@blogger.com (Liam Cunningham) — Tue, 21 May 2013 00:39:00 +0000

According to reports, Patriot's fearsome middle linebacker Brandon Spikes has chosen not to participate in the Patriot's off-season workouts. He does plan on being at the team's mandatory mini-camp, which begins on June 11th. According to Boston Herald Patriot's writer Jeff Howe, this is not indicative of any unhappiness from Spikes:

Spikes has been working out on his own, which he feels is the best way to prepare for the upcoming season. The source said Spikes' absence has nothing to do with unhappiness or a statement about his contract, which expires after the 2013 season. Spikes is also healthy.

Spikes is not losing any money by not attending, and apparently feels more comfortable getting started on his own. This seems a bit odd, but odd behaviour has become the norm from Spikes, who has earned a reputation as one of the hardest hitting linebackers in the NFL over the past few years. While he is somewhat of a liability in pass coverage, Spikes is a dominant run stopper and adds a serious element of toughness to the defensive unit.

Spikes has had a number of off-field incidents, mostly surrounding some controversial tweets. He was also suspended in 2010 for PED usage. Heading into a contract year, I think we should expect big things out of Spikes, who may be looking to bolster his free agency value. It will be interesting to see if the Patriots are willing to try and lock up Spikes, or if this is a case where they will let him hit the market without extending themselves financially.

@LiamPCunningham
@PatriotsLife

Gronkowski surgery successful, could make training camp

noreply@blogger.com (Brendan Annely) — Mon, 20 May 2013 22:02:00 +0000

Finally, some good news for New England Patriots fans on the Rob Gronkowski front!

Good news for #Gronk: He's out of surgery with new plates. As hoped, the infection is gone. No fifth surgery on the forearm, per source
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 20, 2013

Double good news for Gronk: Training camp on time a possibility. And they can focus on his back now, hoping rehab is concurrent with forearm
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 20, 2013

Just as soon as we were starting to worry. It's so far so good. While this hasn't been the best offseason for Gronk, this is finally some good news. Barring any more complications, the forearm should be good. And while he's rehabbing his arm, the Patriots, as Rapoport mentioned, we can get his back issues sorted. His back was the reason the Pats were able to get Gronk in the 2nd round of the 2010 draft.

The Patriots definitely have to be careful with Gronk. They definitely shouldn't rush him back for training camp. It would be great to see him play some time in preseason games, the odd series, just to test him in game scenarios, then hopefully he will be ready for Week 1 against the Buffalo Bills.

Gronk is back - Yo Soy Fiesta, Patsnation!

I'm on Twitter, find me @BrendanAnnely

Tom Brady has "never felt better throwing the football"

noreply@blogger.com (Brendan Annely) — Mon, 20 May 2013 14:49:00 +0000

It's the off-season, so whenever New England Patriots Quarterback Tom Brady speaks, it's big news. Particularly if it's news that he could be getting even better.

"Going into my 14th year, I have never had more confidence in how I am throwing the football," Brady told Sports Illustrated's Peter King at a Best Buddies volunteer event. "I've never felt better throwing the football." (Source)

Which is good news. He can throw better than he did when he was torching NFL defenses in 2007 and 2010, and 2011 and... pretty much every year he's been playing. For Brady, a QB who relies heavily on his accurate passing, to have this confidence is good, especially after the passing of his old coach Tom Martinez. The man who has taken over from Martinez, Tom House, is doing his job well it seems...

"The same way Tom Martinez was always there to watch and give me corrections, Tom House has told me why certain corrections need to be made," Brady said. "Look at a baseball swing and a golf swing. It's all mechanics. Look at how Barry Bonds swings. Look at how Floyd Mayweather punches. Mechanics. When you've got to fit it into the tightest windows, mechanics are crucial. And to me, the offseason is crucial. If you make a throw within four feet, that's not going to be good enough. You have to make the throw within four inches of your target. That's good enough. And that's why the mechanics you adjust and learn in the offseason are important. You're going to keep them during the season."

Maybe it's the loss of Wes Welker, or the questions marks surrounding... well, every other weapon on the offense, but Brady sounds like he's really trying to get more accurate. But, I guess Brady tries to get better every year, because he's Tom Brady, he's a perfectionist. So to look too far into these quotes would be a mistake. It's good to know that he's comfortable with a new tutor, and hopefully he's showing Brady things from different angles to help him improve.

Not that there's much to improve on anyway... I think we can all agree that Tommy's pretty damn perfect. But the three time Super Bowl champion, two time league MVP, and certain HOFer is working this hard in the offseason to get better than 4827 yards, 34 TDs and just 8 INTs.

Patriots rookies - take note.

I'm on Twitter, find me @BrendanAnnely

Dwight Freeney agrees to deal with Chargers

noreply@blogger.com (Joe Loubier) — Sat, 18 May 2013 16:25:00 +0000

According to SportsCenter and Ian Rapoport, Dwight Freeney has agreed to a 2 year deal with the Chargers.

This comes after Freeney met with the Chargers on Thursday and Friday. Your thoughts?
@joeloobs @patriotslife

ESPN & Media reports: Former Colts DE Dwight Freeney agrees to 2-year deal with Chargers. The 7-time pro bowler has 107.5 career sacks.
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) May 18, 2013

Source: #Chargers have an agreement in principle for a 2-year deal with Dwight Freeney
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 18, 2013

Shane Vereen now loves the Bruins and hockey

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Aidonidis) — Fri, 17 May 2013 21:13:00 +0000

It's just about that time; with the NHL Playoffs now in full swing, Bruins-Fever is spreading everywhere. For us Massachusetts (and really all of New England) natives, it is not uncommon to have a passion for hockey, specifically the Boston Bruins. Even Patriots running back Shane Vereen has found himself caught up in all the hype:

"Back in California, I didn't really watch hockey all that much," Vereen said this morning. "A couple of my friends played, but I didn't make time to watch it. But ever since I moved out here, I have a newfound respect for it. You can tell this city loves hockey, and I love it, too, now, so I'm rooting them on."

It is pretty cool that Vereen attributes New England fans for his new respect for the sport. It is also not very surprising that Vereen was glued to the television for the Bruins Game 7 comeback against the Toronto Maple Leafs:

"I was very disheartened when they went down 4-1," Vereen said. "But there was still time left, and there's one thing we learned in football is that the game is not over until it's over. They fought back. I thought it was an incredible game."

The Bruins had a comeback for the ages that caught the attention of sports fans everywhere (even ESPN had some coverage!). With Shane Vereen now part of the fan base as well, the connection between the Patriots and Bruins continues to grow.

Anthony Aidonidis
@aidonidis18
#BarryMelrose

Gronkowski might need back surgery too, what the hell!?

noreply@blogger.com (Mike Saver) — Fri, 17 May 2013 19:36:00 +0000

After Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski spent last offseason doing fun things like going on dating shows, posing naked, being a bro in public, and partying harder than anyone else in the NFL, who would've thought he'd be spending the entire next year in the operating room?

The Summer of Gronk sucks this year

Gronk is already going in for his fourth (fourth!) arm surgery since November very soon. However, it appears he might have one other thing to worry about according to the reputable Mike Garafolo.

USA Today:

The New England Patriots' tight end recently underwent an MRI on his back to check on a disc issue he had dating back to last season, a person informed of Gronkowski's medical status told USA TODAY Sports.

The person, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the Patriots' policy of not publicly detailing injuries, said the issue is with a different disc than the one that needed to be shaved down in via surgery 2009 and that a final decision on whether surgery will be required has not yet been made. The person said Gronkowski will see noted spine specialist Robert Watkins in the near future, after next week's surgery to install a new plate into his forearm.

Just great! This after Gronk signed a record 8-year deal to keep him in New England for many years to come. The stud tight end broke the record for receiving touchdowns at his position in 2011 and was having another touchdown filled 2012 until breaking his arm.

The back issue is a tad concerning seeing as how Gronk fell to the second round in the draft because of a back issue. In fact, all of Gronkowski's surgeries have to be a bit concerning. Will a man that's been opened up so many times in so little months be able to hold it together on the field? If anyone can, the superhuman Gronkowski can I suppose.

Still, none of this is apparently supposed to keep him from training camp unless there are any further complications. Gronk has plenty of those already though so let's not hold our breath.

Replacing Love and Deaderick: Three free-agent defensive linemen the Patriots can sign to fill the gap

noreply@blogger.com (Mike Saver) — Fri, 17 May 2013 19:26:00 +0000

Both former Patriots Kyle Love and Brandon Deaderick are now Jacksonville Jaguars. They must be thrilled about that.

Deaderick was a starter at times, but mostly a rotational player. However, Love held down the fort alongside Vince Wilfork. His release can either be attributed to the fact that he was recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or to the fact that the Patriots just want to move in a different direction.

While we wish the much luck in their games in the AFC south, particularly against the Texans, the Patriots will have to move on and find ways to fill the very literal big gaps the two left behind.

Who are some free-agents available to fill the void?

1. Casey Hampton: The former Steeler is unwanted by his former team and so that's kind of a double edged sword right there. On the one hand, it obviously means he's very available but on the other, why does Pittburgh not want their own guy back?

The 12 year vet certainly couldn't play the same role that young guys like Love and Deaderick did for New England. In addition, he might not be that much of a fit being a nose tackle all those years in the Steel Curtain. Still, he's the biggest name and the most talented guy left out there.

Belichick tends to get the most out of aging players by putting them in the best position to succeed. So, while his fit for the scheme is something important to consider, that's not to say he couldn't find a place on this team. I just don't see it happening though.

2. Sione Po'uha The ex-Jet was released over two months ago and still hasn't found a landing spot. I thought at the time of his release that the Patriots should be interested, but they never were.

Pouha is kind of a similar case to Hampton in that he largely played nose tackle in the 3-4, but I do think he is a bit more versatile. Seeing as he's been out there for so long I do not see money being a major obstacle here. The seven year vet could find a nice spot in Belichick's defense. He was also one of Rex Ryan's favorite players, and say what you want about Ryan, I do trust his opinion when it comes to defense.

3. Amobi Okoye So the Patriots don't exactly have the pick of the litter at this point in free-agency, Okoye has struggled with some injuries lately but the one thing he does bring in pass rush. Okoye has had a sack in every year he's been in the league (including four in 2011), which is a lot more than you can say than some of his fellow free-agent d-linemen. He spent last year, his sixth season, with the Chicago Bears and played in nine games. He was released in November but brough back less than a month later. That certainly doesn't speak well of his skill set but we've seen Belichick bring in long snapper to play for his defense before.

--
So those are the three. Richard Seymour certainly has to be mentioned here. He's still out there, and can obviously fit in with a Belichick defense, granted it's changed a bit since he was here. Still, I think every slightly knowledgeable observer of the Patriots can rule out a Seymour return after the shocking trade back in 2009.

Patriots Announce the Signing of Draft Pick Jamie Collins

noreply@blogger.com (Joshua Brown) — Fri, 17 May 2013 15:58:00 +0000

Patriots announce signing of LB/DE Jamie Collins, their top draft pick (52nd overall).
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) May 17, 2013

This marks the third of their draft picks to be signed with Duron Harmon being the first. Jamie Collins was their first pick in the 2013 NFL Draft and fills a role that I deemed the most important to fill in the off-season, the coverage linebacker.

Collins has been brought in to add speed and pursuit on a linebacking crew that lacked just that. His ability to cover will make the Patriots way more effective against tight ends and running backs that are going out to catch a pass.

Apparently the Patriots like what they see out of Harmon and Collins and so they have wasted little time in signing these players to their rookie tenders.

Josh Brown
@TitleTownTalkSB

Kyle Love's Departure Not Due to Diabetes

noreply@blogger.com (Joshua Brown) — Fri, 17 May 2013 15:26:00 +0000

On Wednesday, The Patriots released defensive tackle Kyle Love and it was suspected that it had a lot to do with the fact that two weeks earlier, he was diagnosed with type two diabetes. But in looking at the Patriots’ history, you can prove a lot about the present and the Patriots history of dealing with players with illnesses speaks for itself.

In 2005, the most memorable of which would be Tedy Bruschi who suffered a stroke and the Patriots sat by and waited out his recovery and even publically stood by Bruschi if I remember correctly which they hardly ever do. Matt Light dealt with Crohn’s Disease off and on for his career here in New England and they consistently signed him and extended his contract. In 2010, the Patriots drafted Marcus Cannon who had non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. As recent as this season, the Patriots signed Armond Armstead out of USC who had to play in the CFL due to him having a heart attack.

Evidence and history shows that the Patriots are patient when dealing with players with illnesses. While the Patriots don’t lack a heart for players with medical problems, they do lack a certain social norm that involves explaining why they released players and with that lack of awareness, the Patriots have taken a beating the past couple of days as it pertains to the releasing of Kyle Love.

The hard truth of that matter may be that Love’s production simply went down in 2012 from numbers that weren’t that impressive to begin with. He only had 25 tackles in 16 games, which is a low number, but it also has to do with the fact that he’s not out there every down as the Patriots like to use three down lineman with Wilfork in the middle. Nonetheless, that lack of production most likely lead to his departure not diabetes.

After news of Love’s cut from the Patriots roster, he was only contacted by one team, the Jaguars. Love wasn’t without a job for long as the Jaguars snatched him up just one day after he was released and now it would seem as if the Jaguars love former Patriot players. The Jaguars picked up Kyle Love just two days after the signing of another former Patriot Brandon Deaderick.

Both of these former Patriots don’t have great statistics, but the coach of the Jaguars Gus Bradley thinks that he is building solid pieces on the defensive line. In a way I kind of agree with Gus Bradley’s philosophy here. The Jaguars ranked 30th against the run last season and I think we can all agree that if Kyle Love and Deaderick excel at anything, it’s stopping the run. Building a group of bigger, sure-tackling guys actually seems like a step in the right direction for the Jaguars.

Kyle Love was a solid player, that I liked, in his time here, but sometimes teams decide to go in a different direction. With the league’s offenses trending heavily in the passing game, it might better suit the Patriots to grab a pass-rushing defensive lineman as opposed to one that stops the run. It is a change in philosophy that sometimes lends itself to teams having to release players that they like.

Josh Brown
@TitleTownTalkSB

Gronk to have 4th surgery on arm next week

noreply@blogger.com (Liam Cunningham) — Fri, 17 May 2013 13:53:00 +0000

Rob Gronkowski will likely have his 4th forearm surgery since originally breaking the arm November 18th in a game vs. the Colts, and then re-breaking it early in the Patriot's playoff victory over the Texans.

According to the previously linked article, written by Karen Guregian of the Boston Herald, as of right now, the infection that has plagued the arm fracture has appeared to have subsided:

To this point, according to the source, there have been no signs of the pesky infection that's plagued Gronkowski's recovery process in blood exams taken. But doctors won't know for sure if the infection has truly been cleared until they go in and get surgical cultures, which will be tested during the surgery.

The status of this infection will be the primary determinant on whether or not Gronk will need to have a 5th surgery following next week's, which would likely cause him to miss the beginning of the regular season and perhaps beyond. If the infection is clear, he will have the current plate in his arm removed and replaced, putting him on pace to be fully recovered in time for the start of training camp.

With the departure of Wes Welker, Gronkowski's importance to the Patriot's offensive attack has increased, and the outcome of this surgery will certainly have a significant impact on the team's roster and offensive strategy going into the 2013 regular season. Overarching concerns loom about Gronk's long history of injuries, beginning in college when he was sidelined with recurring back issues. Since then he has suffered a broken ankle at the hands of Patriot's killer Bernard Pollard, and now an arm that just won't seem to heal.

Questions have been raised as to whether or not he is a player whose career will be characterized by premier talent hampered by constant injury. Some of also raised the question of whether his best seasons are behind him. I believe when healthy he is still by far the greatest tight end in the NFL, and has a definite chance to become the greatest to ever play the positon. But four, and possibly five, surgeries on a forearm in just over six months is not a very comforting fact for Patriot's fans to absorb.

@LiamPCunningham
@PatriotsLife

Dwight Freeney dislikes Patriots because of their offensive fans?

noreply@blogger.com (Mike Saver) — Thu, 16 May 2013 18:13:00 +0000

Freeney visited the Patriots about two months ago now. He still hasn't signed with a team.

He recently visited with the Chargers as he continues to make his rounds around the NFL.

We've thought all along that his high price tag was what was keeping him from joining with the Patriots. However, it appears that there might be something else holding him back according to his father. Though I would assume Hugh Freeney meant this in jest, so let's not get too worked up about it.

Dwight Freeney’s father Hugh told Sirius XM that Dwight doesn’t like the Patriots because fans verbally abused his mother.
— Nick Underhill (@Nick_Underhill) May 16, 2013

Dwight's father badly wants him to play in NE, though.
— Nick Underhill (@Nick_Underhill) May 16, 2013

Dwight’s dad: “It’s all about money now, I guess.”
— Nick Underhill (@Nick_Underhill) May 16, 2013

Hmm. Well, if it's all about money, and the money's even, I don't see why he wouldn't choose New England.

Hopefully Freeney's father can get through to him that the Patriots would be a good fit. I've felt all along that the Patriots should try to sign Freeney. He would fit in perfectly in their 4-3 scheme as a sub rusher, and also be a great mentor for Chandler Jones. Abraham would be a solid addition as well, I just hope the Patriots can sign one of those guys.

Until Freeney comes down in price, don't count him in.

Robert Kraft to Buy the Boston Globe?

noreply@blogger.com (Joshua Brown) — Thu, 16 May 2013 03:27:00 +0000

According to the Boston Business Journal and the Boston Globe itself, owner of the Patriots and Kraft Food Group Robert Kraft is interested in buying the Boston Globe. Members of the Kraft Group have received a presentation that pitches the Boston Globe. The purchase would also include Boston.com and the Worcester Telegram.

The New York Times Company has hired a group to pitch the Boston Globe to potential suitors. Professional estimates have the Globe selling for between 80-120 million dollars, but is a substantial loss as the New York Times Company bought it in 1993 for 1.1 billion dollars.

The Globe has been struggling for a while, but is still a major source for news in the Boston area. Maybe with the right kind of care, Robert Kraft can restore it to its glory days and make it a top selling newspaper again. It would certainly be interesting to see the coverage of the Patriots if the Globe is, in fact, purchased by Robert Kraft.

It’s a tough rescue as the Globe’s value has been steadily declining, but Robert Kraft has purchased radio stations in the past so it would seem as if he has a little bit of experience in purchasing media and news outlets. Kraft is one of five potential buyers that could purchase the Globe.

Josh Brown

Rob Gronkowski: Bartender?

noreply@blogger.com (Brendan Annely) — Wed, 15 May 2013 22:30:00 +0000

Well, he does know a thing or two about booze...

Yes, New England Patriots star TE Rob Gronkowski has been doing some good for the Boston community by becoming a bartender for one night only, for the One Fund Boston, which is supporting victims of the Boston marathon Bombings.

He said "It was a disaster, but it's great now we can do these events and help out the One Fund Boston and help out all the victims." Gronk has also been on many visits to hospitals seeing victims, and his father was actually at the Marathon, but was fortunately unharmed.

As for his rehab, well, "Good. Just working out. Being with the team. Enjoying every workout. Enjoying all the new teammates. So it's fun so far."

So, Gronk helping the community by raising money, and pouring the drinks, rather than drinking them. What a guy! Let's just not imagine what antics he was getting up to the night after this event, which was his 24th birthday. Yo Soy Fiesta, Rob!

I'm on Twitter, find me @BrendanAnnely
#BostonStrong

Patriots release Kyle Love due to diabetes?

noreply@blogger.com (Mike Saver) — Wed, 15 May 2013 21:34:00 +0000

After cutting defensive lineman Brandon Deaderick just recently, the Patriots have now let go of another player that played a lot of starting minutes on the defensive line. One time undrafted free-agent Kyle Love has been informed of his release apparently.

Boston Herald:

The Patriots have released defensive tackle Kyle Love today, according to his agents, Sean Stellato and Richard Kopelman of Klass Sports.

Love was diagnosed with Type-2 diabetes this month, and the team informed him the transaction was based purely on medical uncertainty.

He was told he was released for injury reasons. Since being diagnosed with diabetes, he lost 20 lbs. Not the best thing for a defensive lineman. That is likely the actual reason that Belichick cut him. Extraordinary cruel? Cruel yes, but extraordinary no. That is just the way business works in the NFL.

It's a sad story for Kyle Love, and it doesn't leave the Patriots in a good position either. They already needed help on the defensive line, and losing both Deaderick and Love by choice doesn't help matters. New free-agent Tommy Kelly and former CFLer Armond Armstead could help fill the void. This is a big blow for what was a very stout run defense last year, most of the guys that made it that are now gone.

Video: Nobody knows who Danny Amendola is

noreply@blogger.com (Mike Saver) — Wed, 15 May 2013 20:41:00 +0000

Ah, so Mr. Amendola has decided to get into the comedy commercial game before Tom Brady can unleash his under armor wicked accent sequel later this summer. I see how it is.

This is pretty good. Also, it might be one of the first time's I've heard Amendola actually speak. So there's that. Funny that he's getting endorsement deals with Footlocker for signing with a high profile team he has yet to play for yet. The power of New England!

Brandon Deaderick was cut for poor work ethic

noreply@blogger.com (Mike Saver) — Wed, 15 May 2013 20:38:00 +0000

If you don't show up to Foxboro with your lunch pail, you probably won't be coming back.

Brandon Deaderick went from seventh round draft pick to near starter on the defensive line.

In his third season, he played a career high four games, starting in five of them. So, when he was cut a few days ago, it obviously came as a bit of a surprise. Considering the Patriots still do have a need on the defensive line, and the depth at that position is so important, one had to be scratching their head at this move.

However, CSNNE's Tom E Curran has the scoop as to why Deaderick is gone.

But a source says Deaderick’s work ethic had been a nagging issue since he arrived and that Deaderick was “complacent.” Whether that was the sole reason for Deaderick's release is unknown but it appears to have played a role.

Bill Belichick doesn't often tolerate poor work ethic in his locker room as he doesn't like the example it sets for other players. Deaderick's release won't have an immense impact on the Patriots, but it still will have one.

Deaderick will now see what the bottom of the NFL is like, as he was claimed by the Jaguars today.

Duron Harmon signs with Pats

noreply@blogger.com (Liam Cunningham) — Wed, 15 May 2013 01:39:00 +0000

Each draft Belichick can be counted on for at least one WTF pick. Last year it was Tavon Wilson, and this year it was third round pick Duron Harmon, from Rutgers. Most had Harmon as going undrafted or in the 6th or 7th round, so all were caught off guard when the team chose to take him with the 91st overall pick.

Duron Harmon at Rutgers

Today, Harmon signed a four year deal with the team, the first of the team's overall seven draft picks to ink a deal. What Harmon is capable of very few know , but obviously Bill saw something in him and selected him as a player to help remedy the situation in the secondary.

@PatriotsLife
@LiamPCunningham

Jerod Mayo: eager and ready to go

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Aidonidis) — Tue, 14 May 2013 00:43:00 +0000

It is odd to imagine that having your season end in the AFC Championship game would kick off what is considered to be a long offseason. I guess that is what comes with the territory when your team has championship aspirations year in and year out. Patriots Pro Bowl linebacker Jerod Mayo has never won a Super Bowl, but he picked up the winning mentality as soon as he came to New England.

After taking his wife on a tropical vacation, the defensive captain was ready to get back into the swing of things at the Patriots' offseason workouts:

"It's like we didn't miss a beat," said Mayo, who said he is healthy and hasn't dealt with any offseason injuries. "I think guys took off a couple weeks and then they were right back here working out. So we have a great group of coaches, strength staff, great training staff, so guys don't really go different places."

These offseason workouts are the building blocks for the upcoming season. Though optional, they are useful for players to get an additional edge over their competitors. Mayo admitted that he spends a majority of his year either playing or training for football, but then he wasted to time proclaiming his love for the grind:

"It's always good to be in the weight room, but at the end of the day, playing football is what we're here to do," Mayo said. "We enjoy going out there, putting in new plays, going over plays that hurt us in the past, and just becoming a better football team."

Anthony Aidonidis
@aidonidis18

Belichick Tests Player's Mental Toughness in Training Camp

noreply@blogger.com (Joshua Brown) — Mon, 13 May 2013 18:34:00 +0000

Belichick has always stressed the importance of his mental preparation for every game and it seems as if he has prioritized this strategy of being smarter than the other team to his players. In the early part of training camp, Belichick has put his players through the normal physical tests, but has also added a test that challenges the minds of his players.

Belichick said, “In the end, our ability to perform under pressure is critical. In that light, it really comes down to two things: Number one, the team process - all of us being able to work together and perform productively in the way that we need to do to win. We use the term ‘mental toughness’ a lot, and to me that term means doing the right thing for the team when things aren’t right for you.”

Belichick goes on to explain, "Sometimes it becomes a fine line between doing what’s best for the team and your individual performance. The way we try to handle that, or manage it, is that your individual performance is critical for us to win and your mental toughness is doing what’s best for the team in every situation; so being solid and doing your job. And if you’re prepared and everybody around you knows that you are prepared and they can count on you, and you’re dependable to go out and do your job, then it makes it a lot easier for the person beside you to go out and do theirs.”

So in order to combat this natural desire for players to put themselves first, Belichick puts players through a sort of test to gauge their mental toughness in critical situations. Belichick backs the results of his test saying, “So the whole idea of the ‘do your job’ feeling is to make sure you do your job and you’re prepared, and you’re confident in what you’re doing going into the game. We give them written tests, or tests on the screen, so their teammates can see that they’re prepared, they’re ready for the game, they’re ready for these situations that we’ve covered.”

This is a great look into how a well-prepared coach game plans every one of his players so no situation is too big for them to handle. When it comes right down to it, every football player that’s made it in the NFL is a great athlete (some naturally better than others), but what separates the good from the best is often between the ears.

Game plans and watching tape isn’t just for the coaches. Players are tested mentally in every game based on a team’s tendencies, strengths, weaknesses and knowing all those characteristics goes a long way to raising the Lombardy Trophy at the end of a mentally taxing season.

Josh Brown
@TitleTownTalkSB

BELIEVE IN BOSTON (gray) shirts/hoodies

noreply@blogger.com (JR) — Sat, 11 May 2013 05:50:00 +0000

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Ryan Clark backtracks, says Brady is the 'greatest living American'

noreply@blogger.com (Anthony Aidonidis) — Fri, 10 May 2013 18:24:00 +0000

Although we all know it really is true, Steelers safety Ryan Clark made it a point to address one of Patriots QB Tom Brady's few flaws; he "sees ghosts" when under pressure. Clark caught some heat for this comment, because this is a flaw that a majority of quarterbacks have. When you are feeling the pressure and your receivers are covered, it is significantly harder to remain poised and ignore the instinct to flinch.

Everybody who watches football knows that not only Brady does this, but most quarterbacks do. Looks like Clark was reminded of either the Steelers record against the Patriots or that Brady could come after him in week nine (ask Antonio Smith, who guaranteed a win against the Pats in '07). The safety gave Brady all the praise in the world when he was asked who he thought the toughest QB to face was:

"I have to go with the greatest living American, and that's Tom Brady," Clark said, via WEEI-FM. "You know, I said what I said, and I do believe it, and it's true. But when this guy has the opportunity to set up and throw the ball to his receivers, there's nobody better at pinpointing guys out and making plays for his team."

Is Clark just buttering Brady up? Maybe a little bit, but we all know that even when Brady gets criticism from other players or even fans, there's still a high level of respect for what the future Hall of Famer has done/continues to do. As for Brady being the greatest living American... yup I have to say I agree.

Anthony Aidonidis
@aidonidis18
#TeamTB12

The Patriots host Felix Jones and more, also sign LaVelle Hawkins

noreply@blogger.com (Mike Saver) — Fri, 10 May 2013 00:12:00 +0000

The Patriots were busy today. Here's some of the news coming out of Foxboro.

Felix Jones:

Ex-#Cowboys RB Felix Jones is visiting #Patriots today and tomorrow. The plan is for him to work out, I'm told. Visited #Eagles recently
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 8, 2013

LaVelle Hawkins:

#Patriots sign free agent WR Lavelle Hawkins
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) May 9, 2013

Rex Hadnot and Antoine Caldwell:

The Patriots had a pair of guards in on free agent visits today, Rex Hadnot and Antoine Caldwell. Former Dallas RB Felix Jones also was in.
— Tom E. Curran (@tomecurran) May 9, 2013

LaVelle Hawkins is the latest to join the "throw everything at the wall and see what sticks" receiver corps that the Patriots are building. He's no guarantee to make the team, as he'd likely play mostly out of the slot. The Patriots already have a couple of guys projecting to be ahead of Hawkins that could fill that role.

Felix Jones is kind of in the same boat, though the team hasn't signed him and might be just doing their due dilligence. Jones has largely been a disappointment in Dallas, and would probably slide behind Ridley, Vereen and Blount on the depth chart.

Hadnot is from the Chargers and Caldwell from Houston, both would provide some added depth on the interior of the Patriots' offensive line, a place they could certainly use it after Donald Thomas departed for Indianapolis.

The Patriots only have one roster spot left on the 90 man limit. So don't expect them to sign all three of these guys.

The Patriots Will be Less Dependent on Gronk in 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Joshua Brown) — Thu, 09 May 2013 20:41:00 +0000

Recent Patriots draft pick Aaron Dobson

The Patriots offense ranked number three overall in red zone scoring percentage at 67%. This number went significantly down in the AFC Championship game against the Ravens as the Patriots went just one-of-four or 25%. Most people attribute this to the injury to Rob Gronkowski, who is the Patriots best red zone scorer. To be an effective red zone scorer, it usually means you have good size and strength. This advantage in size allows you to stretch for the ball, go up for the ball at its highest point and box out defenders.

I think the biggest problem with that theory is: what if Gronkowski gets hurt again? This team already relies on Tom Brady too much, but to be so dependent on Rob Gronkowski isn’t healthy either; it’s a formula for disaster.

The dependence on Brady is understandable as there is a lack of great quarterbacks in the league and the ones that are great are being paid somewhere to be great and no team has enough money to pay two starting caliber quarterbacks. In the case of the quarterback, there isn’t enough talent NFL-wide, but in the case of red zone scorers, there has always been a surplus. The fact that the Patriots hedge all their bets on a player that coming out of the draft had injury concerns and a player that has yet to play a full NFL season seems crazy to me.

The Patriots obviously see this dependence on Gronkowski as an issue too because they picked up two players this offseason who may be able to contribute in the red zone. Draft pick Aaron Dobson and the recently acquired LeGarrette Blount. Though the stats aren’t necessarily supporting this theory, Blount certainly is built like a horse and seems to fit the part of a goal line finisher in this league. Blount is 6’0 and 247 pounds and has surprising quickness.

video highlight of Blount last season with the Bucs:

Blount’s first two seasons in the league, he rushed for 1,788 yards and 11 touchdowns. Blount got less touches in 2012 due, seemingly, to a fumbling issue he had in his first two years having three fumbles each season. You can’t fumble the ball three times a season and be an effective red zone scorer. The good news is fumbling issues can be corrected through coaching.

Aaron Dobson hasn’t yet played an NFL game, but due to his length he is born to be an effective red zone scorer as well. In 2011, 6’3 210 pound Dobson peaked with 12 receiving touchdowns.

The fade route is something that played very little role in the red zone this past season for the Patriots, but Dobson could prove to be that kind of a wide out. The defense could usually lock down on the tight ends for the Patriots and make it so that Brady had limited options, but now with these two new targets Brady can find the most favorable match-ups.

Josh Brown
@TitleTownTalkSB