Does Faulk Stay Now?

I think Faulk has stated something along the lines of probably retiring if the Pats don't want him.

We should use Faulk as an assistant coach

Faulk is a multi-milionaire. Well earned. Being a coach, especially on the Patriots means 10-12+ hour days and weekends. As someone likely worth close to 8 figures do you think he'd like to coach for a couple hundred K per year and work his ass off most of the year, not seeing his kids grow up or maybe 'explore other career possibilities'?

PatsWickedPissah said:

Faulk is a multi-milionaire. Well earned. Being a coach, especially on the Patriots means 10-12+ hour days and weekends. As someone likely worth close to 8 figures do you think he'd like to coach for a couple hundred K per year and work his ass off most of the year, not seeing his kids grow up or maybe 'explore other career possibilities'?

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I hear ya. I'm just saying that he'd be right nice in a coaching position for a number of reasons. I suspect it will depend upon how coach approaches him, whether he's still going to get a roster spot, what he really wants to do, etc.

If he retires, I'd understand that completely too.

It will certainly be something to keep an eye on in the next several months.

Belichick tends to like a lot of depth at the position, so I can't say I'd be totally shocked if he did end up staying. Of course, he may end up being inactive as the season progressed, especially if the rookies picked up the playbook well, and the team stayed (somewhat) injury free at the position. Just the same, someone may unfortunately get injured in camp, and the decision will be a lot easier.

For those who say that "we need to free up a RB position to make up for the 3rd QB," keep in mind that spot should be freed up by a player who actually DOES PLAY special teams AND a position--unlike Matthew Slater. Yes, we may take a step or two down losing him as a gunner, but the priority should be on being able to utilize the spot with an actual player.

The newly popular thought that the Pats will only keep 4 RB's this year may not be true at all. And if they do keep 5 again, then Faulk's chances just shot way up. My guess would be that he will return for TC, and if he's cut, it will not be until late. Then there's the salary issue to consider too.

I still believe that he could offer good spot playing at times, and be a very good presence in the locker room. A case could be made either way of course.

They may also decide to Add Lee Smith into the mix and carry for TE's which means another spot will need to be freed up.

It depends on the money really. But Faulk might not be needed anymore with 4 young RBs on the roster. His veteran experience might make a difference but he won't get a lot of snaps in 2011 even if he does sign. There's only so many touches to split between the offensive players. I really do like Faulk, but I'm unsure of his future with the Patriots going forward in the wake of the 2011 draft.

Like T. Brown if he wants 1 more year they should give him it. I thought he would be back in the winter but his recent comments and the lock-out are making me wonder if he will actually do it.

We need more faulk now.

2 rookie
Woodhead and BJE are new too. You need a veteran. Also, when we play heavy blitz teams like baltimore you need faulk in there more than anyone.

Woodhead was okay blocking but as exposed in the Jets playoff loss the jets moved the rush around to make woodhead read and react. they took the coverage set from brady to force it on woodhead.There were breakdowns.

I think faulk signs a 1 yr contract as we develop all 4 on blitz pickup.