It may have draft implications:
Draft strategy: Pats-Jets dynamic
Posted by Mike Reiss, Globe Staff April 10, 2008 08:55 AM
ANALYSIS
Teams that are successful in the NFL draft don't just scout players, they also have an in-depth knowledge of each NFL roster and pressing team needs.
For example, when the Patriots were considering selecting a kicker in 2006, they went into that draft knowing that teams like the Packers, Chiefs and Falcons had a high need in that area as well.
So when the Patriots were on the clock with the 118th overall selection, in the fourth round, they had it in mind that one of those needy clubs could make a move to snare Gostkowski, who was widely considered the top kicker in the draft. Instead of risking that Gostkowski would still be available 18 picks later -- at the top of the fifth round -- they selected him in that spot.
There are similar examples in every NFL draft, for every team, and the picture can change instantly.
One area to watch this year is the team picking in front of the Patriots in the first round -- the New York Jets.
The Jets agreed to a reported five-year, $33.5 million contract extension with safety Kerry Rhodes on Wednesday, and Rich Cimini of the New York Daily News makes the point that this could alter the Jets' draft strategy. Cimini projects that the Jets will now look to save money and trade down to avoid paying the No. 6 overall pick about $20 million in guarantees.
Such a strategy would naturally impact the Patriots.
In one respect, it could take a team that would be looking for the same type of player out of the mix, and potentially open the door for the Patriots to land the player they truly covet.
In another respect, it could create a situation in which both teams are speaking with the same clubs about trading down -- potentially affecting the level of compensation they receive.
Being aware of this ever-changing dynamic of the draft -- and how a team's moves/needs can have a domino effect on the next club -- is part of what adds to its intrigue.
Add in the fact it's the Patriots and Jets, and that intrigue grows a bit larger.