BelichickFan

http://www.boston.com/sports/footbal...on_curriculum/

That's a relief, one more PUPpy off the list.

JMarr

Have the Patriots or anyone else with an inside scoop talked about the specifics of a Welker injury until now? I know we'll find out more details sooner or later, but [especially w/o Stallworth and with an underwhelming CJ as one of the current top 4] I'm worried about having a "less than 100%" or injured Welker this season.

BelichickFan

Looks like it must have been precautionary as he's about to return. If he needed it I am sure they'd have PUPed him to start the regular season but that looks like it's not going to happen. Welker is awesome but as long as we have a healthy, happy Moss we'll have a good WR group.

Sicilian

I'm hoping this is just a precautionary thing. I mean, do you guys remember him being hobbled at all in the Super Bowl? If not then, when did he get hurt enough to miss camp? I'll bet this is some kind of tweak that they wanted to get 100% before letting him get hit. Also gives more opportunity for CJ and others to show what they can do (or what they can't do).

JMarr

I wish that were the case. I would say that if a certain unnamed 6-6 receiver that routinely makes one-handed grabs were to get hurt, we'd be screwed. But if Welker is dinged up this year, I really don't like the thought of CJ or anyone else we have to be TB's #2 or 3 downfield option. I don't have a good feeling about Jackson and hope I'm proven wrong.

BelichickFan

It looks like Moss and Welker will be fine heading into opening day so I think you're worrying about nothing.

Metaphors

I think Gaffney can step into that role. He doesn't have the same quickness or hands in traffic, but Gaffney has the same feel for getting open inside and has Brady's confidence. Gaffney's flexibility to fill in all along the line is a real benefit. Not just depth, but quality depth.

Sicilian

What about Dave Thomas? If need be, could we throw him in the slot? I mean, I would imagine a slot receiver would run very similar passing routes to a TE, just with different/less blocking responsibilites.

hernandeztribe

I understand the concern, but didn't TB do well with unknown receivers in 2006. I mean Reche Caldwell was the No. 1 option at receiver. I think BB knows how to use the PUP to get his players extra rest. Remember, Welker caught 112 passes last year and he runs every route full speed. He was also a key component when we ran the ball in blocking. Almost every year NE plays about 21-23 games a year (preseason, reg. season, playoffs). I think we are going to be surprised with our defense this year. We are going to run more, pounds the ball in, and keep our defense off the field as much as possible. Looking to week one, prepare for the Chiefs.

psychoPat

I've been thinking the same ...
but just recently began to wonder
when it would be time to start to worry.

Ditto, for Jarvis and Ellis III.

Welkome back, Welker!
Take it easy for awhile, eh?
Leave something for both CJs to do (Chad and Jones).