supafly

He's certainly one of them. The problem is that he has also suffered a pretty bad ankle injury, which will keep him out anywhere between the next 4-6 weeks or so.

Some think he could potentially return as early as the 3rd week of September, while others fear that he could miss the entire month of September and a couple/few weeks into October--and that's 'if' he may have made it to the PS too of course.

According to the Herald, "if Kopa is out through roster cuts, the Patriots will have a tough decision to make."

Since this is certainly the case, they will almost surely go with someone else at least initially, although they could then add him to the PS again when healthy, depending upon how much they like him.

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supafly

It seems as though some names that have been brought up lately by fans in the Reiss blog columns have been more towards leaning with some proven vets like Clifton and McKenzie.

The names of LeVoir and Welch were also brought up, but I just don't see a guy like Welch being an instant fit for a potential backup role, and that's what we need now.

From Reiss' blog comments:

"there clearly is a major need to bring in a backup veteran OT (ie Clifton, McKenzie, LeVoir, Welch) because Cannon is clearly not ready at this time."

I suppose the answer is obvious. If Belichick sees any kind of potential fit for any of them here, he'll bring them in for a look--both as potential backups for a more immediate role, or someone like Welch for the developmental role.

I agree with Captain Stone's comments though, I would look towards LeVoir first probably, since he has proven capable of getting the job done.

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Sfpat

Welch being let go in the first round of cuts says everything

PatsWickedPissah

WE are not the only guys needy for an OT. Think St Louis, Jets...long list of teams who'll scour up anyone in frantic desperation.

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unoriginal

It doesn't say everything, but it says many things, any one of which could be true.

Reid and Belichick have a friendly relationship. Reid may be releasing a player with little shot at his own roster specifically so he can latch on here, where there is a need. Belichick did the same thing just this offseason for Schiano with Underwood.

Or he may be releasing a player who just sucks.

captain stone

He was, until he suffered an ankle injury, as SupaFly noted. Too bad. I now have him among the first cuts due tomorrow. Maybe he's IRed, so that he could start over again.
Zusevics is another project who could pay dividends next year, too.

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patchick

Yep. The backup who the Cardinals are starting at LT makes Cannon look brilliant in comparison.

I really don't think there are any OTs to be had at this point, not even via trade. In fact, I've been fiddling with my roster trying to make room for Darrion Weems, who in any other year would be obvious PS material.

Urgent

Welch is much more of the 'flexible back-up OL' who can sub at guard or tackle. He is probably not an upgrade at starting RT.

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