Today In Patriots History July 14, 1972: WR Ron Sellers traded to Dallas

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Former 1st round pick traded to Cowboys​

July 14, 1972:
New England trades WR Ron Sellers to Dallas for a third round draft pick.

Sellers was a two-time All-American at Florida State, who was selected with the sixth overall pick of the 1969 draft. He was named to the Pro Bowl as a rookie when he caught six touchdown passes, and ranked second in the AFL with 26.1 yards per catch. But injuries limited him to ten games in 1971, and with Jim Plunkett throwing almost exclusively to former Stanford teammate Randy Vataha, Sellers' production plummeted. (In 1971 Plunkett completed 51 passes to Vataha, 47 to running backs, and only 40 at other wide receivers. Sellers was the Pats second leading WR, with just 14 catches for 222 yards and 3 TD.)

​

John Mazur, much like his predecessor Clive Rush, made a myriad of short-sighted, head-scratching personnel decisions. The Patriots no longer owned their own 1972 first round pick (10th overall), having forfeited that (plus starting safety John Charles) to Minnesota in 1970 as compensation for signing "free agent" Joe Kapp. Earlier in the year the Pats had traded another first (this one compensation for the loss of former first round pick Phil Olsen to the Rams) for the Giants Fred Dryer. ('Hunter' never signed a contract with the Patriots, forcing a trade.) Late in the second round the Patriots drafted a wide receiver by the name of Tom Reynolds (lasted one season, eight receptions), and later in the month of July, Mazur would trade away another first round pick for aging 49ers TE Bob Windsor. Apparently Mazur felt that Plunkett had plenty of pass receiving options, and Sellers was dealt to the Cowboys. At least the Patriots got a third round pick for him.


Sellers began the '72 season as a backup, then replaced former Olympian and future Hall of Famer Bob Hayes in the Cowboys starting lineup. Despite only starting nine games he finished the season number one in receiving yards and touchdowns for Tom Landry's team. In the '72 divisional round game Sellers caught the game-winning touchdown with 52 seconds remaining from Roger Staubach, who entered the game late in relief of Craig Morton, to cap a 17-0 fourth quarter, overcoming a 21-3 deficit to win 30-28. The play was somewhat overlooked at the time because it occurred on the same day as Franco Harris' game-winning Immaculate Reception, with the Steelers coming from behind to beat the Raiders with 22 seconds left.

Moment 16: Staubach's Playoff Game Rally

Roger Staubach spent most of the Dallas Cowboys 1972 playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers on the bench, watching as his opponents took control of the contest. But when Staubach replaced Craig Morton, things changed.

www.cbsnews.com

1972 NFC Semi-Final Game Between Dallas and San Fransisco

It's been a long time since the Lions had much to brag about, but in the 1950s, they were the team to be feared.The 1971 AFC Divisional Playoff game between the Miami Dolphins and the Kansas City Chiefs is the longest NFL game ever played, ending seven minutes and forty seconds into the sixth...

sportshistorynetwork.com

​

The following year Dallas drafted TE Billy Joe Dupree and WR Golden Richards 1-2, and dealt Sellers to Miami. He was a backup in what was his final NFL season, winning a super bowl ring with the Dolphins.



As for the draft pick they received from Dallas, the Patriots used that on a running back from Alcorn A&M named Charles Davis; he was waived at the end of training camp and never played a single down in the NFL.


Sellers worked at a Boston-based regional stock brokerage during his offseason time in New England. In 1975 he opened his own life insurance agency, where he is still president and CEO. Ron Sellers was named to the Florida Sports Hall of Fame in 1973, and the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988. Over his three seasons in New England he played in 35 games with 30 starts, compiling 1,477 yards receiving and 13 touchdowns. Sellers averaged 18.7 yards per catch while with the Patriots; that ranks as the third highest in franchise history for players with at least 75 receptions, behind only Harold Jackson and Stanley Morgan. At the time he left New England his touchdown reception ranked sixth in club history (31st now).

Jingle Joints should be judged by his cover

Everybody knew Florida State would come out throwing. After all, Bill Peterson, the FSU coach, is a devout church member back in Tallahassee and a devoted

vault.si.com

"I don't know," said Sellers. "I think I just lull people to sleep with my long stride. They don't think I'm going as fast as I am, then pffft."​

People see Sellers for the first time, standing around or warming up, and invariably they are confused. How could this guy be so good? For sure, with his long, skinny bowed legs and thin frame, he's the most unlikely looking player on the field. Sellers can run 50 yards in 5.5 seconds, but always he looks as though at any moment his arms and legs will go flying off in entirely different directions. A Houston defensive back nicknamed him "Jingle Joints."​

About Us: Key Retirement Solutions

About Us

At KRS we have assembled an outstanding staff of professionals whose years of experience are matched only by their integrity and loyalty to clients.

keyretire.com

Ron has been inducted into 10 Sports Hall of Fames and was FSU’s first football player to be inducted into the National College Football Hall of Fame (1987). Ron was honored to be inducted into the Hall of Fame in all three post season bowl games during his career at FSU – the Gator Bowl, Peach Bowl and Sun Bowl.​

In 2007, Ron was honored by being named to The State of Florida’s “100 Greatest High School Football Players in Florida History.”​

Florida Sports Hall of Fame | Ron Sellers

flasportshof.org

Ron “Jingle Joints” Sellers played college football for Florida State University, where he was a two-time All-American (1967 & 1968). Despite being limited to a total of 30 games of regular season eligibility, Sellers still holds Florida State career records for receptions, receiving yards, and most 200-yard receiving games.. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988. A wide receiver, he played for the American Football League’s Boston Patriots in 1969, when he was an AFL All-Star, then for the NFL’s Patriots, Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins.​

Inductee | Ronald Franklin Sellers 1988

Ronald Franklin Sellers was a Wide Receiver for Florida State Universityand inducted into College Football Hall of Fame in 1988

www.cfbhall.com

Ron Sellers was the greatest college pass receiver of his time. In three seasons at Florida State he caught 212 passes for 3,598 yards. His career yardage was a national record in 1968 and lasted 19 years. When he was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1988, 20 years after his last game, he still held 16 school records. His best performance came in 1968 against South Carolina with 16 catches. In other games in his career he caught 14 passes (three times) and 13 passes (three times). His 14 receptions against Penn State in 1967 set a Gator Bowl record. Against Wake Forest in 1968 he caught five touchdown passes. Ron was twice a first-team All-America. Sports Illustrated named him Lineman of the Week; the Atlanta Touchdown Club named him Back of the Week. He tacked on five years as a pro with the Patriots, Cowboys and Dolphins and later moved to Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, to head Ron Sellers Associates, insurance specialists. He was named to the board of trustees of Florida State University.​

FSU all-time countdown: #8, WR Ron Sellers

Born in Jacksonville, Florida, by the time Sellers was fielding college offers he had helped his high school win a state basketball championship and most people thought his athletic future would unfold on the hardwood. At 6-4 180, he was– by conventional standards– the wrong build to be a football player.​

"Funny," Sellers said in a 1968 Sports Illustrated article, "but if I hadn't been so thin I probably would have gone to college on a basketball scholarship. But people kept telling me I was too light to play football; that I'd get killed. It made me mad and I decided I'd show everybody. And so when FSU offered me a football scholarship, I took it."​

Ron Sellers Bio: Hall of Fame class, 1977 - Seminoles.com

Ron Sellers (1988) - Hall of Fame - National Football Foundation

footballfoundation.org

About Us - Sellers Benefits Group | Life | Group Benefits | Retirement

sellersbg.com

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Foxborough caves, allows MNF​

July 14, 1981:
The town of Foxborough bows to pressure and reverts a previous stand, deciding to allow a 9:00 pm kickoff for a Monday Night Football game on September 21.

What a mistake.

After the nationally televised embarrassing public debacle, the Patriots would not host another Monday Night game for 15 years.


Based on the experience of the team's previous Monday night games, on April 14 the selectmen from the town of Foxborough decided they would not allow for the Sept 21 game to proceed unless all beer sales were banned. The Patriots protested, citing the financial hardship due to that lack of revenue. On June 24 the town made a counteroffer to allow beer sales, but with a 7pm start, and then soon compromised to make it an 8pm kickoff.


A quick recap of the previous regular season Monday night games:

Patriots most memorable appearances<![CDATA[]]> on Monday Night Football

The Patriots have played on Monday Night Football 43 times and have a 21-22 record. As quarterback Tom Brady and the Patriots gear up to take on the 11-1 Houston Texans on Monday night, we take a look at some of their most memorable appearances on Monday Night Football through the years, from...

www.boston.com

Monday Night Mayhem​

On Oct. 18, 1976, the Patriots beat the Jets 41-7 at Schaefer Stadium in Foxborough. After the game, Foxborough police chief Daniel McCarthy told residents to “hope and pray’’ that no more night games would be played there after a fan was stabbed, a police officer assaulted and his gun stolen, and more than 60 people were arrested for drunken brawling. After this game, police began checking fans for alcohol when entering Patriots games.​

Traffic nightmare leads to tragedy​

Four years after the 1976 debacle at Schaefer Stadium, another violent game took place. On Sept. 29, 1980, the Patriots played the Broncos, and since the game wasn’t sold out, last-minute ticket buyers added to the usual rush of traffic.​

Poorly lit roadways and parking lots caused several accidents, and the day was marred by the death of a 69-year-old man who was hit and thrown 100 feet by a car driven by a teenager who, police said, had been drinking.​

Many fans didn’t make it to their seats until halftime and exiting traffic was backed up for two hours. A police officer was hospitalized after being kicked in the back during a fight, at least 50 people were arrested, and 100 were removed from the stadium during the game. The Patriots went on to beat the Broncos 23-17, and drinking and fighting continued in the parking lots until the early hours of Tuesday morning.​

From May 19, 1981:
Patriots Promise Improved Monday-Night Security

The New England Patriots, seeking to avert a ban by community officials of a 9 P.M. start for a nationally televised Monday night game here Sept. 21, promised today to provide security aimed at curbing rowdiness.​

''If we require twice as many State Police on the road before the game, that's what we'll do,'' Patrick Sullivan, assistant general manager of the Patriots, said at a special hearing before the Foxboro Board of Selectmen. ''If it requires twice as many security people in the parking lots, that's what we'll do.''​

Town selectmen promised not to act until they see ''something concrete'' from the team, which plays its home games in Schaefer Stadium in this town 25 miles south of Boston.​

Town officials contend that a late starting time allows fans too much time to consume alcoholic beverages between the time they leave work and the opening kickoff, and have suggested a 7 P.M. starting time. At a Monday night game here last fall, a man was struck and killed by an automobile outside the stadium and 49 persons were arrested in disturbances.​

UPI article from one week prior to the July 11 town meeting:

The New England Patriots don't like to host Monday... - UPI Archives

The New England Patriots don't like to host Monday night games but they have one on their schedule....

www.upi.com

The New England Patriots don't like to host Monday night games but they have one on their schedule.​

The Foxboro Board of Selectmen issues permits for the Patriots to play in Schaefer Stadium and also don't like it when the home team plays on Monday night. They don't mind the football so much as the drinking and rowdiness that seems an inescapable part of the proceedings.​

The Patriots have proceeded with plans for the Sept. 21 date with Dallas. The selectmen, however, have told the team the game cannot start later than 8 p.m. to give fans less time to imbibe. ABC-TV has the game ready to start at 9 p.m.​

The Patriots will present their view, again, to another selectmen's meeting tonight. Two weeks ago, the selectmen allowed the Patriots another chance. The team has promised more security but has no say in starting times, which is dictated by television.​

'Our contention is going to be that we can control the situation,' said Pat Sullivan, the Patriots' assistant general manager. 'We won't be held hostage by a few people who give us a bad image. If they disagree, well, it's their own chief of police who's in charge of security and I think it's a slap in the face to him.​

'But we're hoping to convince them that there's no other time to play the game other than 9 p.m.,' Sullivan continued. 'They need some sort of demonstration that we made a bona fide effort to change the time. I've been trying to convince the league for three years that 9 p.m. is a lousy time.'​

In the past, Monday night games at Schaefer Stadium have resulted in scores of arrests. Last year, 46 people were arrested, an elderly man was killed trying to cross dimly-lit Rte. 1 before the game, and thousands of fans crashed undermanned ticket booths for last-second admissions.​

Selectman R. Lawrence O'Donnell said he was '100 percent on the fence' but added 'at Monday night games, you don't take a date, you take a bodyguard.' O'Donnell said he could envision the board allowing the game to start at 9 p.m. or upholding its earlier decision.​

'It could go either way now,' O'Donnell said. 'But 8 o'clock football is no Monday Night Football. There's no such thing.'​

Selectman Peter Stanton said he couldn't envision any new evidence which might make the selectmen change their minds.​

'As far as I'm concerned, nothing has changed. Financial hardship is the one thing that could make us change, but we've asked that question over and over again and the answer has always been no.'​

Stanton said the selectmen, the third member of which is chairman J. Neil Forster, have received mail from across the country and most of it has supported their position.​

'A lot of the letters have come from people in other cities with Monday night football and they don't see why it has to start at 9 p.m.,' Stanton said.​

ABC-TV has stayed out of the dispute, but its 9 p.m. starting time is firm to attract West Coast viewers and advertisers. The Patriots have had a brisk ticket sale for the game despite rumors it might be switched to either Dallas or a neutral site.​

Umm, okay Patrick Sullivan, which is it? That you can indeed control the situation? Or that if it gets out of control it is not your fault, it's the fault of the town's chief of police and his officers?



Foxboro Challenges Patriots, NFL, ABC

It began June 23, when the Foxboro (Mass.) Board of Selectmen voted unanimously to deny the New England Patriots' request to play a Monday night football game against the Dallas Cowboys Sept. 21 at 9 o'clock, instead of 8.​

The selectmen -- Chairman J. Neil Forster, Peter D. Stanton and R. Lawrence O'Donnell -- said the town would license no game starting after 8 p.m. They cited fan rowdiness and drunkenness at Foxboro's Schaefer Stadium as the reason.​

"It's basically been a problem of frustration," said Andred Gala, town administrator and spokesman for the selectmen. "There is a problem with fan control and behavior. The board of selectmen has been trying to deal with this for years."​

Now, after lots of hype in the local media, the 60-minute war is raging. On one side is Foxboro, a town of 14,000 located 23 miles southwest of Boston. On the other side are the New England Patriots, the National Football League and ABC Sports. The town of Foxboro is a six-touchdown underdog.​

"My feeling is that reasonable men can reach reasonable decisions," William H. Sullivan Jr., president of the Patriots, said. "We haven't gone in wearing boxing gloves. This thing has been blown out of proportion by all of this undue publicity.​

"There has been no bad blood developing between us and the selectmen. They are not putting pressures on us and we are not putting pressures on them. We want to live in the community and we feel that we have been good corporate citizens at a time when Los Angeles is offering (Oakland Raiders owner Al) Davis millions to get him, and Oakland is offering him millions to stay."​

The Patriots requested a chance to appeal the decision to the board and were granted that request. The appeal will be heard Tuesday.​

How bad is the situation at Schaefer Stadium on Monday nights?​

"Last year," John P. Gaudet, Foxboro police chief, said, "we had a total of 128 arrests at Schaefer Stadium (over eight games). On the one Monday night game last Sept. 29 against Denver, there were 49 arrests.​

"Everyone has his own philosophy on why it's worse Monday night," said Gaudet, who has 25 full-time officers. "Mine is that you take the average guy getting here at 7 o'clock Monday night and he is hustling from work and he probably drinks half his dinner on the way here. Monday night, there is more of a young, virile group than on Sunday, when you have mostly season ticketholders and people coming on their way from church.​

"I think one hour might make a difference. Any policeman knows most crimes are committed after dark. It's all behavioral things, like fighting, drinking, assaults. No felonious crimes. This is just fan misbehavior."​

Gaudet said he employs 200-225 officers at Schaefer Stadium for a normal game. "I appoint police officers from surrounding towns and then there are extra security officers, too, besides my own staff."​

Stadium logistics are a problem. Schaefer Stadium depends on only one major thoroughfare (Rte. 1) to deposit patrons into its parking lots and the satellite parking lot at the Foxboro Harness Raceway across the street. Gaudet said a main concern is the drinking in the parking lots before and after games.​

"I think that when we present our case, this will be straightened out," Sullivan said. "One of the selectmen had said that if we come up with a better security plan, then he would be satisfied. Well, we have devised a plan and we feel it is complete.​

"We also plan to bring a letter from the commissioner (Pete Rozelle). The gist of the letter is that the league requested this date and time months ago and to change it at this late date is unfair."​

Sullivan said he believes the Patriots already have suitable security. He added, "Under our contract, ABC is entitled to our game and is entitled to have it played at 9 o'clock."​

Jim Spence, vice president of ABC Sports, said: "Let's just say that ABC Sports has an agreement with the NFL that calls for a 9 o'clock start. We hope that the Patriots and the board will work this out."​

Nice false equivalency there Billy Sullivan, between MNF drunk-fests in Foxborough and the Raiders moving to LA.

As for the game itself? Fans arrived in the late afternoon and numerous fights broke out in the stands. The Patriots lost to the Cowboys 35-21, as Ron Erhardt benched Steve Grogan and gave Matt Cavanaugh the start. The Patriots turned the ball over seven times - including four picks off Cavanaugh. Dallas put up 455 yards of total offense, the first of six games where the Pats allowed 400+ yards in '81. That included 237 yards rushing, and was the third of five consecutive games to start the season the Patriots allowed 200+ yards on the ground.

Foxborough officials immediately banned Monday Night Football in response to the drunken rowdy behavior. Just three minutes into the game you could hear Howard Cosell say, “Some object has been thrown onto the field,” but things were just getting started in the stands. The New York Times vaguely referred to the “tumult that occurred after dark.” Fires were set, then drunken fans slashed firefighter hoses with pocket knives. Fans didn't bother to use the rest rooms and just peed in the aisles.

The next MNF game in Foxborough would not be held until Oct. 23, 1995 when the Patriots beat the Buffalo Bills 27-14.

Patriots couldn't host “MNF” games in 1980s because fans drank too much

Foxboro, Mass. has been a town of terrors for visiting NFL teams in the 21st century. But a few decades ago, the majority of the devastation occurred off the field. In 1971, the New England Patriots moved into Schaefer Stadium, which would be the team’s home under various names (including...

www.nbcsportsboston.com

Conery: Patriots' success rose out of strange beginnings

The New England Patriots are the best franchise in the National Football League. This was (decidedly!) not always the case. THE STADIUM The Patriots once played a “home” game at Legion …

www.capecodtimes.com

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
Less eventful 20th century news​

July 14, 1974:
Kicker Ian Sunter is signed as a free agent. Sunter was born in Dundee, Scotland and moved to Burlington, Ontario in 1966 at the age of 14. He knew nothing about North American football until a high school football coach saw how well he kicked on their soccer team, and recruited him to play football. The 21-year-old had already played two seasons for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the CFL; at the age of 19 he kicked the game winning field goal in the 1972 Grey Cup.

Sunter was competing for the placekicker job with another European rookie, John Smith, to replace the 1973 kicking tandem of Bill Bell and Jeff White. Smith won the competition (where would we be without the Snowplow Game?), and Sunter was cut on August 25; he ended up playing in the CFL for seven seasons, as well as for the Lions in 1976 and Bengals in 1980.

https://www.cfl.ca/2010/08/04/1970s-profile-ian-sunter/

July 14, 1980:
Patriots sign kicker Ian Sunter, a CFL veteran who had played for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, and most recently the Toronto Argonauts.
He had also signed a contract with the Pats six years prior on this same date.




July 14, 1982:
New England signs fourth round pick Brian Ingram, linebacker from Tennessee who played for four seasons with the Pats.

Patriots also signed free agent Mark Flood, a guard from the University of Connecticut. Flood, 6-4 and 253, attended the Dallas Cowboys' training camp the previous year.




July 14, 1988:
Patriots sign twelfth round (#321 overall) draft pick David Nugent, a defensive tackle from Boston College.

Not to be confused with DE David Nugent, the Pats sixth round draft pick from Purdue. The Boilermaker played in 15 games with the Pats over two seasons, whereas this BC Eagle never played in a regular season NFL game.




July 14, 1992:
Patriots re-sign free agent Shawn McCarthy.

A 12th round draft pick by Atlanta in 1990, McCarthy was released as part of final roster cuts by the Pats in 1991 after a poor performance in the final preseason game. He was re-signed three weeks later to replace Bryan Wagner - who had a 29.1 yard net in three games and once punted into his teammates' back - as the team's punter. McCarthy had a 93-yard punt in a week ten game at Buffalo in '91, which to this day still the third longest in NFL history. Shawn owns the franchise record for most punts in a single season with 103 in 1992; that also ranks 22nd most in the NFL single season record books. And his 4,227 yards punting that season is a third Patriot record McCarthy owns - with those last two titles being due in large part to the ineptitude of **** MacPherson's offense that season.

McCarthy was released before the start of the 1993 season, succeeded by Mike Saxon.

MCCARTHY’S PUNTING A PATRIOTS HIGH POINT

The Patriots have something no other NFL team can claim: two winners of the national punt, pass and kick contest, Hart Lee Dykes and Shawn McCarthy. McCarthy actually doubles as the answer to another piece of trivia. He is the tallest…

www.courant.com

Purdue Boilermakers Football, Basketball & Recruiting

The latest Purdue Boilermakers news, recruiting, transfers, and NIL information from on3.com

purdue.rivals.com

July 14, 1992:
New England re-signs CB David Pool

The Patriots claimed Pool off waivers from Buffalo in late August of 1991. He played in 15 games with three starts in '91, then in all 16 games with 14 starts in '92. In his two seasons with New England, Pool had 76 tackles, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and two interceptions, in back-to-back games - both of which were the Pats only wins that year. On Nov 15 Pool had a 41-yard pick-six off Jeff George as the Pats beat the Colts 37-34 in overtime. A week later Browning Nagle was picked off on back-to-back first quarter possessions, first by Maurice Hurst (to set up a Jon Vaughn TD run) and by Pool (to set up a John Stephens TD), as the Pats beat the Jets 24-3




July 14, 1997:
Pats re-sign ERFA Lovett Purnell, the TE who was a 7th round 1996 draft pick from Valley Forge Military Academy.

Purnell played in 34 regular season games and three postseason games for the Patriots from 1996-98.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
News from the Aughts​

July 14, 2001:
With the benefit of hindsight, this column is a gem. Bob had a far more rosy outlook than I did at that time, but I was dead wrong on how 2001 would turn out.

A Free Agent Farm In Foxborough | PatsFans.com

Print lots of media guides, fellas. We'll need 'em. Just let us know if Bill Belichick is one of the orderees. Not that we'll be surprised or anything. He may need one just to remember all those new faces he's bringing in this fall.

www.patsfans.com

Print lots of media guides, fellas. We’ll need ’em.

Just let us know if Bill Belichick is one of the orderees. Not that we’ll be surprised or anything. He may need one just to remember all those new faces he’s bringing in this fall.

It is becoming quite clear why the Patriots took the tack they did on draft day. In what is clearly a melting pot bigger than a steel mill in Pittsburgh, the Patriots are bringing in new face after new face to Smithfield in a few weeks. Chances are you’ll see someone who the Patriots played against in each of their sixteen games last year.

Will it produce a winner? So far, the 2001 AFC East looks as up in the air as a brand new CMGi Field steel girder. If there were any year for Belichick to shake things up and throw out a brand new Patriot team that perhaps he doesn’t even know, this might be the time to do it. With virtually every team in the division in transition right now, the timing is good.

The Patriots perhaps lead the league in ex-Dolphins. Yesterday, the Pats signed CB Terrell Buckley to a veteran-minimum deal, with incentives that could put it in the $1 million range. Buckley will now compete for the job opposite his friend Ty Law, and join Terrence Shaw, Kato Serwanga and Otis Smith for the starting RCB job. Buckley joins Damon Huard, Larry Izzo and Bert Emmanuel who have made the 1,500-mile ride up I-95 from Miami to Foxborough. We aren’t kidding, the interstate does traverse both locales.

Patriot fans who have denounced Belichick for his questionable draft strategy are perhaps cooling off a bit lately. Belichick has literally flung open the gates of free agency, and the Patriots have been one of the more active teams in the NFL in this area. They have upgraded many areas on the team, such that while it won’t guarantee a Vince, it might help veer the good ship Patriot back towards consistent playoff contention.


By swapping Huard for John Friesz as backup quarterback, the Patriots provided a huge upgrade at the position as well as immense cap savings. Friesz’ cap hit is now only $200,000, about ten percent less than if they had not released him. Having Huard in a Patriot uniform is good news enough, as he won’t be starting for Miami any more. Jay Fiedler still holds that position down in Miami, though Huard is a better choice as their starter. Instead of starting for Miami like he should, now he’s Drew Bledsoe’s backup.


Fans screamed for running back help in the draft. Instead, Belichick brought in two fresh new faces to try and be the next Curtis Martin and Sam Gash. RB Antowain Smith comes in from Buffalo, while FB Marc Edwards moves to Foxborough from Cleveland. Edwards provides an immediate upgrade from Tony Carter, and Smith, if he is healthy, gives the Patriots a powerful backfielder who may have some good years left in him. Robert Edwards continues his saga, but Smith may be just what J.R. Redmond and Kevin Faulk need at this time.


Is it possible to go from a lousy offensive line to a good one in just one offseason? The Patriots could very well send out a line that reads, left to right, Adrian Klemm, free agent Mike Compton (Lions), Damien Woody, free agent Joe Panos (Bills), and Greg Robinson-Randall. Waiting in the wings would be draftees Matt Light and Kenyatta Jones. This right away represents an upgraded offensive line. It may not be able to carve a tunnel through solid bedrock, but it sure is better than previous years. Klemm and Randall have a lot to prove at the all-important tackle positions, but the running game is sure to benefit from three solid interior blockers. If Klemm is healthy and can keep Bledsoe’s backside safe, and if Randall improves on the promise he showed last year, the prospects for the line are encouraging.


Patriot wideouts are becoming like the Red Sox starting pitchers. You lose Pedro Martinez, and his replacement gets beaten only because one of their guys threw a one-hit shutout. Here, Terry Glenn gets busted and has one foot in the slammer and the other on a banana peel, and the Patriots have four new guys to step in and take his place. Charles Johnson, Torrance Small, David Patten and Emmanuel provide sudden depth at the position. It almost guarantees that Troy Brown will be allowed to return to the slot position, where he is among the league’s best. If Glenn does not return, none of these guys will evenly replace him, but it does give Bledsoe more than just clay ducks out there to shoot at.


Chad Eaton has not yet been replaced as the nose tackle in a 3-4 defense. It may not matter. All signs point to the Patriots returning to a 4-3 alignment for 2001. Top draft pick Richard Seymour is far better suited for a defensive tackle position in a 4-3. Anthony Pleasant, formerly of the Jets, will come in and play end. Brandon Mitchell will return, and Riddick Parker was signed as a free agent as well. Mike Vrabel was also brought in, and the ex-Steeler may be a help on situational pass-rushing downs. Izzo was signed mostly for his talent on special teams, but he is a linebacker who will give the Pats some needed depth in the defensive front seven.

Buckley now joins the long list of Patriot free agent chaps. Buckley has long desired to play for the Patriots and with his friend Law. Last year, Buckley played in Denver and had six interceptions. Buckley is known as a “gambler”, who gets lots of picks but also is susceptible to giving up the big play if he misses on his gamble. The Patriots are Buckley’s fourth NFL team.


Right now, the positions still in need of help are linebacker and defensive line. Every other position has received adequate attention in the offseason, either by draft or by free agency. And in the case of linebacker and DL, both of these positions did receive help (Seymour, Pleasant, Vrabel, draftee T.J. Turner). More linebacker depth would be nice, as would someone who could fill Eaton’s spot if Belichick still wishes to tinker in a 3-4 alignment.

Again, don’t expect a Vince with this bunch. At least not right away. If what Baltimore did last year is any indication of the direction of the league right now, the Patriot defense has a ways to go. Patriot Nation screamed for David Terrell on draft day, a wideout. Yet it was Ray Lewis, a linebacker, who was the Super Bowl MVP. Like I sometimes say, what do we know.


With these free agent upgrades, along with a second straight last place schedule, the Patriots at least figure to score more points and not allow teams to run the ball down their throats in 2001. Even minus Glenn, the Patriots do look a little brighter on the offensive side of the ball, and Seymour will be the focal point of the defense for the foreseeable future.

And the possibility exists that Belichick is not yet done. There will be lots of other serviceable veterans out there who may be available before opening day. The Pats are $3 million under the cap right now. Seymour and Light still need to be signed. But other moves might yet be made (cutting veterans like Grant Williams, Rod Rutledge and Tony Simmons would free up $2.4 million right there).


Belichick may yet be hung out to dry in 2001. But do not blame the man for not trying. And do not blame the man for not having a plan. Rick Pitino should have been more like this, though his cap problems over at the Fleet were far more crippling than any cap problems here.

Like New England weather, if you want a change, wait a minute. If you want a new free agent linebacker, wait a minute. One’s probably on its way right now.





July 14, 2003:

Bruschi Signing On Saturday

Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi will be appearing for an autograph signing this weekend in Nashua New Hampshire.

www.patsfans.com

July 14, 2004:
Jason Perry is released.

Perry was a safety from North Carolina State that was a 4th round pick in 1999 by San Diego. He played for the Chargers for three seasons, appearing in 31 games while spending virtually all of 2000 on injured reserve. After that it was one season with the Vikings, one with the Bengals, and one with Amsterdam in NFL Europe. I'm guessing perhaps he was waived after failing a physical, given the date, but that's pure speculation. Kurt Kittner (a QB) was signed the next day, followed by Jim Miller (another QB) and Vince Wilfork on July 19, so it's not as if Perry was released to immediately make room for his replacement. Len Pasquarelli (below) opined it was simply a case of the Patriots already being set in the defensive backfield.

Regardless, that was the end of Perry's pro football career.

https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=1839120

Four-year veteran safety Jason Perry, signed as a free agent earlier this offseason and then allocated to NFL Europe, has been released by the Pats. Perry, 27, was victimized by the overall depth in the New England secondary.​

His release came despite the fact that Perry, playing for the Amsterdam Admirals, led all NFLE defenders this spring with 76 tackles. He also had two sacks, two interceptions and five passes defensed.​

Originally a fourth-round pick of San Diego in the 1999 draft, Perry has appeared in 41 regular-season games in stints with the Chargers, Vikings, Panthers and Bengals. For his NFL career, he has 47 tackles, two interceptions and three passes defensed. The former North Carolina State standout was also a solid special teams player.​

Patriots release S Jason Perry

The Patriots announced the release of safety Jason Perry today.

www.patriots.com

Perry, 27, was signed by the Patriots as a free agent on Feb. 6, 2004 and was allocated to NFL Europe for its 2004 season. While in Europe, Perry started at safety in all 10 games for the Amsterdam Admirals and recorded 57 tackles (48 solo). In four NFL seasons, Perry has played in 36 games with eight starts and has notched 56 tackles (46 solo) and intercepted two passes.​

The 6-foot, 200-pound native of Passaic, N.J., has played in the NFL for San Diego (1999-2001), Minnesota (2002) and Cincinnati (2002). He was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in the fourth round (104th overall) of the 1999 NFL Draft. As a rookie for San Diego in 1999, he played in all 16 games with five starts and recorded a career-high 26 tackles (21 solo). He played in just one game for the Chargers in 2000 before ending the season on injured reserve. In 2001, played in 14 games with three starts while recording two interceptions including one returned 37 yards for a touchdown. He was released by the Chargers following 2002 training camp, but was signed by the Minnesota Vikings (10/03/02) and played in three games before being waived (12/16/02). He was claimed off waivers by Cincinnati (12/17/02) and played in two late-season games for the Bengals. He became a free agent following the 2002 season and spent the 2003 season out of football.​

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
More news from the Aughts​

July 14, 2006:

Mini Camp report from PFW

Read my very thin PFW yesterday, and found a couple of interesting notes I thought to pass on..... Alumni participants - OTIS was in the building! "Former Patriots Otis Smith and Fred Baxter were on hand to help out at practice. Smith worked with the defensive backs while Baxter helped out...

www.patsfans.com

M

Thread 'Mini Camp report from PFW'

Jul 14, 2006

Read my very thin PFW yesterday, and found a couple of interesting notes I thought to pass on.....

Alumni participants - OTIS was in the building! "Former Patriots Otis Smith and Fred Baxter were on hand to help out at practice. Smith worked with the defensive backs while Baxter helped out with the tight ends."

Thumbs up for Ghost - "Martin Gramatica kicks the ball extremely low. He had a similar problem toward the end of his career in Tampa Bay that led to some of his kicks getting blocked. Both Gramatica nd rookie Stephen Gostkowski hit a majority of their field goal...

• marty
• Replies: 26
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

P

Post in thread 'Mini Camp report from PFW'

Jul 14, 2006

Yes, TC is where we willr really find out what he deal is.

But, I guess you would have to say right now that The Ghost will be our kicker when the regular season starts.

• PATSNUTme

Post in thread 'Mini Camp report from PFW'

Jul 14, 2006

Yes, TC is where we willr really find out what he deal is.

But, I guess you would have to say right now that The Ghost will be our kicker when the regular season starts.

Without a doubt. I mean no one honestly believed they were going to keep Gramatica right? He was some guy that could show the new kid the ropes teach him some stuff then let the kicker on his way.

• SeanBruschi54

S

Post in thread 'Mini Camp report from PFW'

Jul 14, 2006

Show the new kid the ropes??? Whats to learn??


Gramatica talking to Gostkowski:

"Ok, the holder puts the ball down and you kick it....OK??? Goood!!!! Now on this one, the holder puts the Ball down and you kick it....I think you're getting it. Think you can do one on your own?...awsome, you're on your way kid"

To FTP - pretty funny - even for a Goober like yourself!

Love and kisses, Homer

• SunnyDenmark

Post in thread 'Mini Camp report from PFW'

Jul 14, 2006

Show the new kid the ropes??? Whats to learn??


Gramatica talking to Gostkowski:

"Ok, the holder puts the ball down and you kick it....OK??? Goood!!!! Now on this one, the holder puts the Ball down and you kick it....I think you're getting it. Think you can do one on your own?...awsome, you're on your way kid"

Gee i dont know. Pressure kicks, what to look for in a special teams alignments, wind factors, weather conditions, previous stories from when Gramatica kicked throughout the years, examples of what he should and SHOULD NOT do, little tidbits of information. You...

• SeanBruschi54

Post in thread 'Mini Camp report from PFW'

Jul 14, 2006

Read my very thin PFW yesterday, and found a couple of interesting notes I thought to pass on.....

Alumni participants - OTIS was in the building! "Former Patriots Otis Smith and Fred Baxter were on hand to help out at practice. Smith worked with the defensive backs while Baxter helped out with the tight ends."

Thumbs up for Ghost - "Martin Gramatica kicks the ball extremely low. He had a similar problem toward the end of his career in Tampa Bay that led to some of his kicks getting blocked. Both Gramatica nd rookie Stephen Gostkowski hit a majority of their field goal...

• Bostonian1962

I

Post in thread 'Mini Camp report from PFW'

Jul 14, 2006

Good stuff PC87! I expect mine to be in the mailbox today, down here in VA. I'm expecting it to be "thin".

Hey Bostonian, I got mine yesterday and it's the same size all the offseason issues are (32 pages) except the post-draft issue which is bigger. The next issue is the training camp preview issue and then it's back to weekly. To be fair, it must be hard to put out a 56 page paper on one NFL team in the middle of July. There just isn't enough to talk about right now. So your paper should be the same size it's been all offseason.

Also, there's a good article about Bam...

• I'm Ron Borges?

Post in thread 'Mini Camp report from PFW'

Jul 14, 2006

Some folks seem to have forgotten BB's oft stated philosophy that he wants to create competition at every position to get the most benefit out of training camp. Thus the vet & the rook.

• PatsWickedPissah

July 14, 2007:
New England signs draft picks Corey Hilliard, Oscar Lua and Mike Richardson

While Bill Belichick may have more or less whiffed with his 2007 draft selections, he more than made up for it with his use of draft capital, trading a second round pick for Wes Welker and a fourth for Randy Moss





July 14, 2007:

Asante Samuel close on a deal?

http://ledger.southofboston.com/articles/2007/07/14/sports/sports01.txt This is a positive sign that a deal might get done by the end of the weekend.

www.patsfans.com

P

Thread 'Asante Samuel close on a deal?'

Jul 14, 2007

http://ledger.southofboston.com/articles/2007/07/14/sports/sports01.txt

This is a positive sign that a deal might get done by the end of the weekend.

• patsfan579
• Replies: 99
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Post in thread 'Asante Samuel close on a deal?'

Jul 14, 2007

What a great weekend this would be for the Pats if they can get this done.

• Bruschi 3:16

Post in thread 'Asante Samuel close on a deal?'

Jul 14, 2007

Some of it sounds very optimistic, but there is enough doublespeak in there to get too happy about it.

• Oswlek

Post in thread 'Asante Samuel close on a deal?'

Jul 14, 2007

No, I don't think they know.. I hope they are close... I'm not holding my breathe though... I would love to see Samuel here as a Patriot, he just needs to get a reality check- he will not be as good as he is here, the system makes him look good, and 2, he may get more money else where, but he will probably be playing on a sorry ass team with no chance of making the playoffs. Take the money they offer you, it's good money, and will "take care of the family"... Ask Ty Law if it's a good idea to leave...

• AirForcePatFan

July 14, 2008:

Tomase article on Mayo

Tomase is apparently still writing about the Pats, even if it is for the Sporting News: Mayo Article It actually is a pretty good article. And in case anyone is wondering... comments are turned on for the article.

www.patsfans.com

N

Thread 'Tomase article on Mayo'

Jul 14, 2008

Tomase is apparently still writing about the Pats, even if it is for the Sporting News:

Mayo Article

It actually is a pretty good article.

And in case anyone is wondering... comments are turned on for the article.

• NE39
• Replies: 62
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Post in thread 'Tomase article on Mayo'

Jul 14, 2008

Tomase is apparently still writing about the Pats, even if it is for the Sporting News:

Mayo Article

It actually is a pretty good article.

And in case anyone is wondering... comments are turned on for the article.

It's a shame that he's a lying fink or I'd be tempted to go read it.

Thanks for pointing out that he's still writing about the Patriots though... that is interesting. I wonder when he will finally just give up.

• Lloyd_Christmas

Post in thread 'Tomase article on Mayo'

Jul 14, 2008

LOL, read the comments...

• VJCPatriot

Post in thread 'Tomase article on Mayo'

Jul 14, 2008

It's a shame that he's a lying fink or I'd be tempted to go read it.

Thanks for pointing out that he's still writing about the Patriots though... that is interesting. I wonder when he will finally just give up.

Growing up would be a nice switch for this board. Awesome article. Thanks to the OP for posting.

• patsox23

Post in thread 'Tomase article on Mayo'

Jul 14, 2008

I read the aricle (not proud of it, couldn't help it). It was pretty good but nothing new, just a regurgitation of stuff - on the upside, Tomase doesn't appear to have made anything up in this article.

• VrabelMayeWin

Post in thread 'Tomase article on Mayo'

Jul 14, 2008

on the upside, Tomase doesn't appear to have made anything up in this article.

LOL now that was funny

• signbabybrady

Post in thread 'Tomase article on Mayo'

Jul 14, 2008

It's a really nice article in fairness, and there's a telling little snippet about Mayo and Crable's film-work.

What assurances are there that he didn't make up Mayo/Crable midnight>coach phone calls??

Will Tomase now think this is some secret way of communicating, or did he just get dizzy??

"Belichick stands behind the rookie linebacker, coolly whipping a whistle around his finger in ever tighter concentric circles. Clockwise. Counterclockwise. Clockwise. Counterclockwise."

By the way.....if there are those boycotting the Herald - the link to the story was actually Sporting...

• fgssand

July 14, 2009:
This was a sad day for any of us old enough to remember the greatest rock and roll station in the history of radio, WBCN.

Empty suits at CBS made the decision to sack 'BCN, and as part of the radio station maneuvers created 98.5 The Sports Hub, which would debut on the same day WBCN would go dark, August 13.

BCN had been the flagship station for Patriot broadcasts, pre- and postgame shows from 1995 to 2008.

WBCN and The American Revolution

The incredible, true story of how a radio station, politics, and rock and roll changed everything.

theamericanrevolution.fm

The Last Day of WBCN Boston, As Told By One of the Last DJs

The last day of WBCN Boston was August 11, 2009. I was on the air on that final day of broadcasting. This is my story. 104.1 WBCN Boston was the...

rock929rocks.com

WBMX - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

WBCN axes rock format - going to all sports (on 98.5 as WBZ-FM) to compete with WEEI

Sorry if this was already reported but if so I missed it CBS sacks WBCN for all-sports Boston station - BostonHerald.com At first blush my reaction was that they won't be able to compete with WEEI - but the fact that EEI has neglected to add an FM station in that market is what BCN is...

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'WBCN axes rock format - going to all sports (on 98.5 as WBZ-FM) to compete with WEEI'

Jul 14, 2009

Sorry if this was already reported but if so I missed it

CBS sacks WBCN for all-sports Boston station - BostonHerald.com

At first blush my reaction was that they won't be able to compete with WEEI - but the fact that EEI has neglected to add an FM station in that market is what BCN is taking advantage of.

Still - it may be that the Providence based 103.7 effectively gives them that presence already.

And since they're carrying Patriots games they stand a chance of getting some cooperation from Patriots coaches and players... i.e. the Providence-based Sports station could...

• JoeSixPat
• Replies: 162
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Post in thread 'WBCN axes rock format - going to all sports (on 98.5 as WBZ-FM) to compete with WEEI'

Jul 14, 2009

Re: WBCN axes rock format - going to all sports (on 98.5 as WBZ-FM) to compete with W

More details...All of this is will take place around August 13:

WBCN itself will stay on the air as 98.5 HD 2. It will also be available online.

Mix 98.5 (WBMX) will move to 104.1 (HD 1).

98.5 will re-launch as "98.5 The Sports Hub" and use the new callsign WBZ-FM. Bruins and Patriots games will be on 98.5. Toucher and Rich from WBCN will do a sports morning show on 98.5. Felger will be leaving WEEI again and doing a show with Tanguay on 98.5 in the afternoon.

98.5 The...

• pats1

Post in thread 'WBCN axes rock format - going to all sports (on 98.5 as WBZ-FM) to compete with WEEI'

Jul 14, 2009

Re: WBCN axes rock format - going to all sports to compete with WEEI

Nice. I hope this kills the EEI morning show.

Ironically, CBS was trying to get D+C to move to a new sports station during their contract dispute a few years back. CBS has been trying to switch over WBCN for a while now.

• pats1

Post in thread 'WBCN axes rock format - going to all sports (on 98.5 as WBZ-FM) to compete with WEEI'

Jul 14, 2009

Re: WBCN axes rock format - going to all sports (on 98.5 as WBZ-FM) to compete with W

As this new station is going to be WBZ-FM, maybe we'll see the return of Bob Lobel or Gil Santos...

Other candidates, besides Toucher/Rich and Felger/Tanguay, would seem to include guys like Zolak and Rusillo. Maybe Steve Burton.

• pats1

Post in thread 'WBCN axes rock format - going to all sports (on 98.5 as WBZ-FM) to compete with WEEI'

Jul 14, 2009

Re: WBCN axes rock format - going to all sports (on 98.5 as WBZ-FM) to compete with W

I can only hope that this gives EEI a kick in the butt to improve what they put on the airwaves. They have been getting bad as of late.

• stevedogc

Wilfork's New Site Promises Interactivity

www.patsfans.com

I'm not sure if anyone has been there recently or not, but Vince Wilfork's official website has received quite an upgrade.

The Patriots defensive lineman has been quite active on Twitter, but his website includes a photo gallery, a blog, and several other features where he's been working on adding photos and "getting the hang of" posting and getting used to his new site. In an era where the athletes are moving closer and closer to interacting directly with fans, it's quite refreshing to see one of the more popular Patriots embracing this technology. Obviously with the growth of Twitter we're seeing more and more athletes and celebrities take advantage of that new media outlet. With his new site, Wilfork is taking it even further with his blog and his focus on interacting with his fans and promoting his foundation.

One interesting thing Wilfork pointed out is that he's encouraging fans to talk to him. In a post from July 1st he says, "I do answer my emails.... eventually". However Wilfork makes a good point where he tells fans that they need to try and remember that this is his own personal site, which both he and his family are a part of. So try and think before you post and remember who may be viewing it.

"Before you say something that you wouldn't want said about yourself just think about that," writes Wilfork. "Think about how great this technology is and how almost everyone has access to it including my children and my family. So if you wouldn't want your child to read something being said about you ..... remember I got kids too."

Hopefully they get the message. But for those who want to wish him well, be sure to stop by and drop him a note.

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
News from the 2010s​

July 14, 2010:

Wednesday Patriots Headlines - July 14th

A relatively quiet news day again here this morning, but here are today's New England Patriots headlines.

www.patsfans.com

We'll kick off this morning with an article from Christopher Price of WEEI.com on Patriots owner Robert Kraft and his relationship with Yankees owner George Steinbrenner, who passed away yesterday morning. According to Kraft Steinbrenner sent him a letter back in 2002 after the Patriots won their first Super Bowl.

"It was the nicest letter, praising us for the turnaround and making the right personnel decisions, even when they weren't the most popular decisions at the time," Kraft said. "We both want to win. We do things different, stylistically, but the bottom line is we want winners running the show."

Michael Lombardi has a piece on NFL.com where he takes a look at the AFC, and gives a brief summary of each team heading into this season. One of the highlights of this article is where he looks at the Patriots, and talks about the mention by several media outlets who are claiming New England's "window of opportunity is closing".

I laugh when people say the Patriots' window is closing fast as Tom Brady gets older. Are you kidding me? The Patriots are a team in transition, but their window is not closing. In fact, it is getting wider as they keep surrounding Brady with young talent.

ESPN's John Clayton has an article on quarterback Tom Brady, and how he will handle his contract situation heading into this season. Clayton wonders whether or not he'll make a statement by holding out when camp opens next week in Foxboro.

"Brady has a decision. Does he simply report and hope something gets done or does he try to make a statement with a holdout? A Brady holdout could be the biggest story of the NFL this summer."

Andy Hart of Patriots.com answers questions in this edition of ASK PFW, including one regarding his thoughts on the linebacker position, which obviously has quite a few questions heading into training camp.

"The group has the youthful potential to be better than it was a year ago and to continue to evolve throughout the season and coming seasons. But the reality is, there are a lot of ifs in the group."

Jeff Howe has a good article on Bill Belichick, and whether or not the Patriots head coach is spreading himself too thin by taking over so much of the coaching responsibilities by opting to go without offensive and defensive coordinators.

OTHER NFL HEADLINES:

The Buffalo Bills official website has an article looking at their offense, and wonders if they'll be able to average more than 21 points per game this season.

The Denver Post has a mailbag that's somewhat interesting, discussing Josh McDaniels and how long he has to win in Denver before the team would consider making a change.

Terrell Owens Interested in Playing for Patriots?

www.patsfans.com

hristopher Price of WEEI.com reported on Wednesday that free agent wide receiver Terrell Owens is apparently interested in playing here in New England.

According to the report Owens said Wednesday in an interview with WJMN Radio that he'd "definitely be open" to playing for the Patriots.

"People think that they have that perception about me. Of course. Any receiver … what receiver that's out there that's had great stats, great careers that didn't want the ball? I'm no different," Owens said. "But of course — I mean, you've got Brady there. You've got the great mind, coach Belichick.

"I'm like LeBron. I can go there and take less of a role, take less money and put everything aside and make it work."

T.O would take less for us...

T.O. bats his eyelashes at the Pats | ProFootballTalk.com

www.patsfans.com

D

Thread 'T.O would take less for us...'

Jul 14, 2010

T.O. bats his eyelashes at the Pats | ProFootballTalk.com

• duce110
• Replies: 67
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Post in thread 'T.O would take less for us...'

Jul 14, 2010

Looks like he has begun the begging portion of his career.
I think BB should string him along until he comes out as says he would give up 8-1 for Moss then say no thanks.
I would have my popcorn ready for that.

• Ring 6

Post in thread 'T.O would take less for us...'

Jul 14, 2010

Last year I would have, reluctantly, been interested.

Since then we've added Holt and Price, Tate has returned and we improved our receiving TE also. Pass.

• VrabelMayeWin

D

Post in thread 'T.O would take less for us...'

Jul 14, 2010

you wouldnt give him the vet min. but give it to patten, smh...

• duce110

Post in thread 'T.O would take less for us...'

Jul 14, 2010

you wouldnt give him the vet min. but give it to patten, smh...

I know, terrible! Pattern is such a locker room trouble! And the chance of him making the roster is 100% and isn't here to help the young WRs at all!

• Calciumee

July 14, 2011:

Randy Moss.....

Randy Moss in “freakish shape” in bid to keep career going | ProFootballTalk Randy Moss + chip on shoulder = good thing. I reiterate my prediction: CBPY 2011: Randy Moss, WR, NEP.

www.patsfans.com

T

Thread 'Randy Moss.....'

Jul 14, 2011

Randy Moss in “freakish shape” in bid to keep career going | ProFootballTalk

Randy Moss + chip on shoulder = good thing.

I reiterate my prediction: CBPY 2011: Randy Moss, WR, NEP.

• TheGodInAGreyHoodie
• Replies: 120
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

S

Post in thread 'Randy Moss.....'

Jul 14, 2011

I just read this article before you posted and I can say I'm fairly impressed. If this is true, he would solve all of NE's problems at WR. I hope they do consider him. The improvement this team will have made in one off-season would be spectacular.

• s3antana5757

Post in thread 'Randy Moss.....'

Jul 14, 2011

Give it up already. Randy's issues here or elsewhere had nothing to do with being in freakish shape in the off season.

• MoLewisrocks

Post in thread 'Randy Moss.....'

Jul 14, 2011

I would not want to see him on the Ravens

• PatsWickedPissah

Post in thread 'Randy Moss.....'

Jul 14, 2011

I just read this article before you posted and I can say I'm fairly impressed. If this is true, he would solve all of NE's problems at WR. I hope they do consider him. The improvement this team will have made in one off-season would be spectacular.

I trust the Patriots to do their due diligence.

If they feel that Moss has learned his lesson and could still contribute to the team, I'd be OK with bringing him back.

But if they feel it's better to stay away from Moss, I'm OK with that, too.

• ctpatsfan77

July 14, 2012:

Hypothetical: Would you trade the first 3 SBs for the last 2?

It's the middle of July, so time for hypothetical history questions. Would you trade the first three Patriots championships (2001, 2003, 2004) for the last two (2007, 2011)? Meaning, we would have lost those three, but won the last two. Pros 19-0 -That team is, without a goddamn...

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Hypothetical: Would you trade the first 3 SBs for the last 2?'

Jul 14, 2012

It's the middle of July, so time for hypothetical history questions.

Would you trade the first three Patriots championships (2001, 2003, 2004) for the last two (2007, 2011)? Meaning, we would have lost those three, but won the last two.

Pros

19-0
-That team is, without a goddamn doubt, forever known as the GREATEST team of all-time, period. Something that would never be surpassed and most likely never equaled either.

18-1 gone
-Naturally, in turn, being on the wrong side of the biggest disappointment ever is now gone.

We are no longer one team's b****
-We...

• Pessimistic Pete
• Replies: 72
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Post in thread 'Hypothetical: Would you trade the first 3 SBs for the last 2?'

Jul 14, 2012

Yes I would. A perfect season plus my son wasn't old enough to care about the first 3. We would have celebrated together all night had they won the last two.

• naF staP

Post in thread 'Hypothetical: Would you trade the first 3 SBs for the last 2?'

Jul 14, 2012

No. 3 superbowls for 2? In what universe is 2 greater than 3? There is no reasonable opinion that can be put forth to exchange 3 for 2.

• ausbacker

Post in thread 'Hypothetical: Would you trade the first 3 SBs for the last 2?'

Jul 14, 2012

No Goddammit, 01,03,04 were righteously earned. 07 and 11 were passively given away by poor game plans and Pats players coming up small in big moments. They earned the first three titles, should of had six but it is what it is. You can't wish away bad performances or switch one championship for another. And the reason they won the first three was because of the players they had on defense.

• Armchair Quarterback

July 14, 2013:

Program Alert

Program Alert Sunday July 14 from 10:00 am to Noon ET on NFL Network A Football Life: Bill Belichick, Parts I and II - If you have never seen this before, do it now. And if you have seen it before, you may want to watch it again. Sunday July 14 from Noon to 1:00 pm ET on NFL Network...

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Program Alert'

Jul 14, 2013

Program Alert​

Sunday July 14 from 10:00 am to Noon ET on NFL Network
A Football Life: Bill Belichick, Parts I and II
- If you have never seen this before, do it now. And if you have seen it before, you may want to watch it again.

Sunday July 14 from Noon to 1:00 pm ET on NFL Network
Sound FX: Tom Brady and Tim Tebow
- On and off the field candid sound bites from the two Pats quarterbacks, primarily from the 2011 season.

Sunday July 14 from 6:00 to 7:00 pm ET on NFL Network
Top Ten Controversial...

• jmt57
• Replies: 77
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

R

Post in thread 'Program Alert'

Jul 14, 2013

I'm stealing your "Program Alert" for our board.

Thanks for the heads up.

• Remarker

Post in thread 'Program Alert'

Jul 14, 2013

I've watched BB's "A Football Life" several times, never gets old. I just wish it was a better season that year.

• Tunescribe

Post in thread 'Program Alert'

Jul 14, 2013

I've watched BB's "A Football Life" several times, never gets old. I just wish it was a better season that year.

I agree, it is unfortunate that the inside look was during the 2009 season. The amount of frustration that Belichick had with that club - even in the wins - was very insightful. After watching the program I wonder why I was ever surprised even in the slightest bit in the way the season ended; on the contrary, it is amazing that they actually made it as far as they did.

• jmt57

Post in thread 'Program Alert'

Jul 15, 2013

Looks like the world wide leader has a new football show. I don't expect it to be as good as NFL Matchup or NFL 2Night were, but anything is better than yet another superficial scripted faux debate show. It's called NFL Insiders and will be hosted by Suzy Kolber and primarily feature Adam Schefter and Chris Mortensen; the show premiers August 5.

Unfortunately it replaces NFL32 - a decent X's and O's show in my opinion - but is only scheduled to air on weekdays from 3-4 pm ET. I liked being able to watch NFL32 after getting home from work; maybe the folks in Bristol...

• jmt57

Post in thread 'Program Alert'

Jul 18, 2013

oh ga gaa goony goo...I'm an insider....anyone who isn't is an outsider...nonny nonny nya nyah..

typical FESPN jagoff programming...I used to be an addict...haven't really given them much play at all, especially sitting down and watching segments, since 2007.

• Joker

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
News from the 2010s​

July 14, 2014:

Patriots Huddle: Monday's News, Notes and Links

Here are some New England Patriots news, notes and links for Monday July 14th, 2014.

www.patsfans.com

Lost in the Manziel Mania going on out in Cleveland is former Patriots quarterback Brian Hoyer, who is going to be facing a lot of critics who will likely be looking for any reason for Johnny Manziel to see game action at some point this season.

Hoyer, for now, is considered the starter for the Browns heading into 2014, but he's still keeping the same mindset that he's always had and a Tweet over the weekend was one that caught the attention of many after it was retweeted over 4,000 times.

After reading the article published about LeBron James in Sports Illustrated, Hoyer appreciated the fact that James noted that "in Northeast Ohio, nothing is given, everything is earned."

That will likely remain the case as he tries to keep Manziel behind him on the depth chart, and having spent time in New England he's handling the questions about his teammate quite well. When asked recently about if he's been paying attention to the news surrounding Manziel that keeps appearing, Hoyer said he's only focused on getting ready for training camp.

Five Questions Heading Into Training Camp For the 2014 Patriots

Simply put, when Gronkowski is on the field with Brady the New England offense is Super Bowl caliber. When he isn’t, they have struggled to move the ball and score points.

www.patsfans.com

5. Who Steps Up Next To Devin McCourty At Safety?

While the team released veteran safety and starter Steve Gregory in the spring, the job appears to be Duron Harmon's to lose at the outset of training camp. But there is a long way to go before the team suits up to take on the Miami Dolphins in September. . . .

4. Defensive Line Health, Will Wilfork, Kelly and Easley Be Ready To Go?

In 2013 the Patriots interior of the their defensive line took two big blows in back-to-back weeks, losing Vince Wilfork and then Tommy Kelly to season-ending injuries. In their absence, rookies Chris Jones and Joe Vellano stepped up and started and performed fairly well. Sealver Siliga was brought in mid-season and played well down the stretch.

The team drafted Dominique Easley with their first pick (29th overall) in the 2014 NFL Draft. Easley was projected to be a possible Top 10 pick but he suffered a torn ACL last season, which allowed the Patriots to grab him late in the first round. Now Wilfork and Kelly are back and were participants during the recent June mini-camps, as was Easley on the final day back on June 19th.

It can't be overstated how important the three of these players are to the interior of the Patriots defensive line. Wilfork has always been a space-eating, two-gap presence in the middle that helped shut down opposing team's running games. Kelly provides that as well, and is a penetrating disruptor in the passing game. Easley is perhaps the most intriguing of the three. . . .

3. Can the Offensive Line Rebound and Keep Tom Brady Upright?

It is no secret that the Patriots offensive line struggled at times in 2013 after Tom Brady was sacked 40 times. Guards Logan Mankins, Dan Connolly and center Ryan Wendell all suffered from subpar seasons. Mankins and Connolly both battled health problems as well. The Patriots were at times overpowered up the middle and it showed, especially in the AFC Championship Game in Denver.

To make matters worse, long-time Patriots offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia retired after the 2013 season. His propensity for taking unheralded players and molding them into a cohesive unit will be missed, but fortunately the team has a talented replacement in Dave DeGuglielmo to take his place.

Mankins and Connolly are healthy in 2014 and Wendell is looking to rebound back into his 2012 form. But the team took no chances after dipping into the NFL Draft three times to look for a needed injection of youth and physicality along the offensive line.

Center Bryan Stork should push Wendell for starting reps in camp this season. He's an experienced starter that was the anchor for the national champion Florida State offense for the past four years.

Jon Halapio is a tough guard who played all of 2013 with a torn pectoral muscle at Florida. He and 2nd year player Josh Kline will battle Connolly for reps and a roster spot in training camp. The team also selected offensive tackle Cameron Fleming from Stanford in the draft this spring. Fleming and Marcus Cannon will vie for backup duties at swing tackle in camp and provide depth behind starters Nate Solder and Sebastian Vollmer.

2. Can the Wide Receivers Become Difference Makers in the Offense?

The Patriots wide receivers in 2013 were facing an uphill battle from the outset as a completely revamped core who was expected to replace production of 338 receptions, 3984 yards and 30 touchdowns missing from the year prior.

Rookies Aaron Dobson, Kenbrell Thompkins and Josh Boyce all battled to find a comfort zone in the playbook and each dealt with injuries as well. Danny Amendola was signed to replace Wes Welker and after a hot start in camp was injured in the opener and struggled to regain his chemistry with Brady. . . . .

1.Can Rob Gronkowski Be Ready to go and Stay Healthy in 2014?

The Patriots 2013 season on offense can be broken down into three parts, prior to Gronkowski returning, while he was on the field and after he was lost for the season.

It is no surprise that the Patriots offense struggled in the first and third parts and was on fire during the period that Gronkowski played.

Simply put, when Gronkowski is on the field with Brady, the New England offense is Super Bowl caliber. When he isn't, they have struggled to move the ball and score points. Gronkowski provides Offensive Coordinator Josh McDaniels matchup nightmares for opposing defenses. He can stretch the field vertically down the seams and open the short and intermediate routes over the middle for players like Edelman and Amendola to thrive. . . .

Patriots Pre-Training Camp Player Spotlight: FB James Develin

Patriots fullback James Develin played well in his first year in New England and will be looking for an even better year in 2014.

www.patsfans.com

2013 Summary:

Patriots fullback James Develin was one of the more pleasant surprises on New England's roster in 2013, quietly carving out a nice niche that should potentially set him up for an opportunity to build on his first season when training camp opens in a few weeks.

Develin saw increased duties down the stretch last season, mostly being used as a blocker in both the running game and the passing game. He had limited carries in 2013, carrying just four times for ten yards, but he'll forever live on with one of the most memorable touchdown runs fans have ever witnessed after bouncing off defensive players repeatedly in the Patriots win over Houston.

The former defensive end at the University of Brown finished his collegiate career with a sack and an interception before moving to fullback when he played in the UFL for the Florida Tuskers. He had previously spent time with the Bengals, but in his first full season with New England, Develin appeared in all 16 regular season games and became a stalwart at the fullback position.

Let's talk about the lines: OFFENSE

As much as we want to talk about the glamour positions (offensive skill positions, DB, etc.), I think the key this year for NE will be the play in the trenches. The OL needs to give Brady time to throw and open up holes for the RBs. The DL needs to get pressure on the QB and be solid against...

www.patsfans.com

I

Thread 'Let's talk about the lines: OFFENSE'

Jul 14, 2014

As much as we want to talk about the glamour positions (offensive skill positions, DB, etc.), I think the key this year for NE will be the play in the trenches. The OL needs to give Brady time to throw and open up holes for the RBs. The DL needs to get pressure on the QB and be solid against the run. Basic stuff, but hugely important.

So let's talk about the lines. First, the offense.

Here are the current Patriots' players on the offensive line (by espn.com's NE depth chart):

LT - Solder, Devey, Fleming
LG - Mankins, Halapio
C - Wendell, Stork, Cave
RG - Connolly, Kline
RT -...

• ivanvamp
• Replies: 151
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

B

Post in thread 'Let's talk about the lines: OFFENSE'

Jul 14, 2014

Fleming wasn't even a LT in College and I think David Shaw (his former coach) said he was a RT only when he was on NFLN at the time Fleming was picked.

If Stork sorts out his botched snaps in time (I assume they were ones from under center) I'd like him to start week 1 with a line like:
Solder-Mankins-Stork-Cannon-Vollmer

There's a lot of bulk there to just maul teams in the run game.

• Big-T

Post in thread 'Let's talk about the lines: OFFENSE'

Jul 16, 2014

While on the subject, Nick O'Malley (does the Springfield Republican only hire sports writers named Nick?) has this column today - although he too is unfortunately yet another writer that finds it necessary to rely on PFF stats as part of his analysis.

New England Patriots Roster Bubble Watch: The price tag for G Dan Connolly presents a problem | masslive.com

The Patriots have multiple pillars up front to build their offensive line around in tackles Sebastian Vollmer and Nate Solder as well as left guard Logan Mankins. However, Connolly, along with center Ryan Wendell...​

• jmt57

Post in thread 'Let's talk about the lines: OFFENSE'

Jul 16, 2014

I certainly hope that you're right, RayClay.

He has a rep as a smashmouth advocate. He's coached 22 years, but i can't find a good article because he spit on someone's shoes during 1 year with the Jets.

Here's a vid and an audio

Britanny twinkie manages to avoid asking any football questions during an entire interview.

http://www.patriots.com/media-center/videos/Patriots_Play_60/a4dce310-3678-4624-adee-56b0db746992

audio

http://www.miamidolphins.com/multim...uglielmo/4030bae3-26ce-49d0-ab57-b0c70b1df897

There was a good...

• RayClay

July 14, 2015:

Patriots LB Hightower: "Hell Yeah, I Want to Play in the First Game"

Hightower took part in a local football camp in Lowell, Mass on Monday and told ESPN's Joe McDonald that he's making progress and so far, everything is going well with his rehabilitation.

www.patsfans.com

Patriots Training Camp Primer – Quarterbacks

With the only question at quarterback being if Tom Brady's suspension will be upheld to start the 2015 season, the team is good shape at the position.

patspub.patsfans.com

Arguing with some Ravens Fans

Hey guys, I'm over here working some sense into these Ravens fans. If you aren't already registered, they make you wait 2 months before they allow you to post without the moderator approving each post. Which takes forever. But if you are, join in...

www.patsfans.com

P

Thread 'Arguing with some Ravens Fans'

Jul 14, 2015

Hey guys, I'm over here working some sense into these Ravens fans. If you aren't already registered, they make you wait 2 months before they allow you to post without the moderator approving each post. Which takes forever. But if you are, join in.

http://boards.baltimoreravens.com/t...16-1st-round-and-2017-4th-round-picks/page-78

• Pats2000
• Replies: 42
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Post in thread 'Arguing with some Ravens Fans'

Jul 14, 2015

Good luck. Sounds fun, like
rolling on hot coals naked.
or getting my fingernails ripped off with pliers
or having a TV that only gets ESPN...

/fun

On a more positive note, keeping fighting the good fight

• RelocatedPatFan

M

Post in thread 'Arguing with some Ravens Fans'

Jul 14, 2015

Remember what Twain said....

And George Carlin -
Never argue with an idiot. They will only bring you down to their level and beat you with experience.

• mosey threetupu

Post in thread 'Arguing with some Ravens Fans'

Jul 15, 2015

This is from the other Ravens fan forum but it gave me a bit of a chuckle.

Must have been posted by a closet Pats fan, as those statements all look true to me.

• PatsFanSince74

Post in thread 'Arguing with some Ravens Fans'

Jul 17, 2015

Here's a jump ball Joe thread .... f'n morons .....

http://forum.russellstreetreport.co...fraid-of-quot-Jumpball-Joe-quot-and-DPI-calls

• IcyPatriot

July 14, 2016:

Thursday Daily Rundown 7/14: New England Patriots News and Notes | PatsFans.com

Here's a look at this morning's top Patriots stories for Thursday July 14, 2016.

www.patsfans.com

Buffalo Bills Back At Trolling Tom Brady Following Court Ruling | PatsFans.com

Buffalo Bills troll Patriots, Brady, following latest Deflategate ruling.

www.patsfans.com

VIDEO: "@FitzyGFY's Wicked Pissed Appeal-Cast" | PatsFans.com

Patriots superfan Fitzy shares his thoughts on the latest developments in Deflategate.

www.patsfans.com

Rob Gronkowski Shares Funny "Throwback Thursday" Picture | PatsFans.com

Rob Gronkowski posts funny "Throwback Thursday" photo.

www.patsfans.com

Bill Simmons on Stephen A. Smith

More discussion here: Bill Simmons -- Stephen A. Was NFL's Puppet ... To Smear Tom Brady Not news to the folks around here.

www.patsfans.com

S

Thread 'Bill Simmons on Stephen A. Smith'

Jul 14, 2016

More discussion here:
Bill Simmons -- Stephen A. Was NFL's Puppet ... To Smear Tom Brady

Not news to the folks around here.

• SlowGettingUp
• Replies: 55
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

G

Post in thread 'Bill Simmons on Stephen A. Smith'

Jul 14, 2016

Incoming Steven A "outraged" rant in 3. 2. 1..

• Galeb

Post in thread 'Bill Simmons on Stephen A. Smith'

Jul 14, 2016

"Uppity"? Surprising word choice there.

• Uncle Rico

Post in thread 'Bill Simmons on Stephen A. Smith'

Jul 14, 2016

• ErniesPinkStripes

Post in thread 'Bill Simmons on Stephen A. Smith'

Jul 15, 2016

SAS = race hustling idiot

For all the things you can criticize Stephen A Smith for, being a race-baiter is not one of them. He goes out of his way to not make issues about race and really the only reason your saying that is because of your own racist attitude to stereotype all loud black public figures as race baiters.

Evidence of SAS avoiding race-baiting.

• EatSleepWinRepeat

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
More news from the 2010s​

July 14, 2017:

How many coaches in the entire NFL are...

... a net positive for their team, compared to a random warm body taking up the same space? Let's call it the Jeff Fisher line. :p Guys clearly above that line: Belichick . . . Carroll (The Seahawks have been consistently better since he's been there, goal line lol call notwithstanding)...

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'How many coaches in the entire NFL are...'

Jul 14, 2017

... a net positive for their team, compared to a random warm body taking up the same space?

Let's call it the Jeff Fisher line.

Guys clearly above that line:

Belichick
.
.
.
Carroll (The Seahawks have been consistently better since he's been there, goal line lol call notwithstanding)

Tomlin (Higher winning % than Cowher, has his flaws but is clearly sustaining success)

Reid (He'll probably never build a champion, but Chiefs are clearly better off now and he made the Eagles better than they ever were before or since)

Harbaugh (Though the Ravens have won less under him than you...

• sean10mm
• Replies: 43
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Post in thread 'How many coaches in the entire NFL are...'

Jul 14, 2017

I'm impressed with Adam Gase, TBH (Dolphins HC).

• neuronet

B

Post in thread 'How many coaches in the entire NFL are...'

Jul 14, 2017

-Arians
-Bill O'Brien (not his fault the Texans take QB signing ineptitude to an art form)
-Del Rio is driving the Raiders resurgence
-Kubiak in Denver before retiring
-Its only been 1 year, but Koetter looks good down in Tampa

And Tomlin does not belong on your list. He doesn't make the Steelers better, he holds them back. His in game coaching is atrocious and routinely costs them games.

• BlacknGold77

Post in thread 'How many coaches in the entire NFL are...'

Jul 14, 2017

I would place Sean Payton higher.

In my opinion New Orleans' problems are with their GM, Mickey Loomis, and the owner, Tom Benson - and not the head coach.



Tomlin on the other hand should be ranked lower. The Steelers win in spite of him, not because of him. Tomlin is in the opposite situation of Payton: in Pittsburgh he has a solid front office and ownership, which masks his mediocrity.

• jmt57

July 14, 2018:

Patriots film study, playcalls, and scheme breakdowns

EDIT: Updated title to reflect current content, per suggestion from @PP2 Formerly: Brady mid-throw adjustment Great look at how quickly Brady reads a defense, pulls the ball down mid-throw, and knows instantly where to find his open man. This is just one example of the type of cerebral play...

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Patriots film study, playcalls, and scheme breakdowns'

May 15, 2018

EDIT: Updated title to reflect current content, per suggestion from @PP2

Formerly: Brady mid-throw adjustment

Great look at how quickly Brady reads a defense, pulls the ball down mid-throw, and knows instantly where to find his open man. This is just one example of the type of cerebral play that makes him the GOAT.

• WaterfallJumper
• Replies: 171
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Post in thread 'Patriots film study, playcalls, and scheme breakdowns'

Jun 1, 2018

• BaconGrundleCandy

Post in thread 'Patriots film study, playcalls, and scheme breakdowns'

Jun 28, 2018

Interesting look at cost effectiveness of NFL offenses.

• WaterfallJumper

Post in thread 'Patriots film study, playcalls, and scheme breakdowns'

Jul 10, 2018

Hopefully Ill have some time tonight to post more in here but Ive been too busy lately.

Just a reminder that running the ball is situational football. Pass = win & as usual the Pats are ahead of the curve.

• BaconGrundleCandy

Post in thread 'Patriots film study, playcalls, and scheme breakdowns'

Jul 26, 2018

• PP2

July 14, 2019:

New England Patriots News 7-14, AFC East Notes | PatsFans.com

Not only did Brady have the best percentage of passes completed of 10+ yards downfield, he attempted the most in the past three seasons.

www.patsfans.com

Brady NFL Best at Throws 10+ Yards Downfield:​

Pro Football Focus (PFF) Steve Palazzolo put out some startling stats on Friday which got social media aflame, especially those who consider Tom Brady a “dink and dunk” QB. According to the stats that Palazzolo posted, not only did Brady have the best percentage of passes completed of 10+ yards downfield, he attempted the most in the past three seasons.

Of course, this ignited the troll population who then wanted to know who led the league in short passes. Well, Palazzolo’s stats showed that Brady wasn’t even in the Top 10 of passes thrown at or behind the line of scrimmage.

18 Game Schedule? This is a Ridiculous Scenario:​

We were thinking that this was a satire piece when we first saw it but unfortunately that was not the case and someone at the NFL front office actually believes this to be a good idea. The NFL has been pushing an 18-game schedule for quite some time now, that isn’t new, but what they’re proposing is…

The league is proposing that there will be only two exhibition games and expand the regular season slate to 18 games. But the kicker is, that the league knowing the NFLPA (NFL Players Association) will certain dig their heels in over this, wants to limit each player can only dress for 16 of those games.

I have no idea what is on the menu at Park Avenue, but please feel free to share some.

Fans will not be happy, imagine a fan from another city knowing that say the Patriots or Chiefs are coming to town, shelling out big money for tickets only to find out that Tom Brady or Patrick Mahomes is sitting this week?

This one doesn’t even sound good on paper, it will never pass with the NFLPA but just shows two things. The owners aren’t going to stop pushing for an 18-game schedule and the bargaining agreement with the league and NFLPA is not going to be pretty.

Elandon Roberts Traffic Stop Wasn’t About Race, Sheriff Says:​

Patriots linebacker Elandon Roberts was pulled over by Sheriff’s Deputies back on March 10 in the Pecan Grove neighborhood of Richmond, Texas outside of Houston. Roberts has charged that the deputy in question acted unprofessionally because of Roberts’ race.

The sheriff’s deputy, Adam Watkins tried to pull over Roberts for doing 59 mph in a 35 mph zone, but things went south from there. Roberts assertation that he was harassed “because he is a big black guy” (Deputy’s words), was frightening and unprofessional.

Roberts tried to exit his vehicle with his hands up and was ordered back into the vehicle. Roberts tried to tell the deputy that he lived there. The deputy called for backup because he had “ a large black guy who wouldn’t obey his commands.”

Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls said that the stop wasn’t based on race but that his deputy didn’t act as professionally as he should and received a verbal reprimand. Roberts received citations for speeding and not having proof of insurance (Roberts couldn’t find it during the stop).

The sheriff’s comments and the entire traffic stop video can be seen here:

Harry begs Brady: no rookie haircut

Link: Patriots’ First-Round Pick N’Keal Harry Begs Tom Brady For No Rookie Haircut He just guaranteed himself a creatively bizarre coiffure. This will be fun to watch.

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Harry begs Brady: no rookie haircut'

Jul 14, 2019

Link: Patriots’ First-Round Pick N’Keal Harry Begs Tom Brady For No Rookie Haircut

He just guaranteed himself a creatively bizarre coiffure. This will be fun to watch.

• Tunescribe
• Replies: 53
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Post in thread 'Harry begs Brady: no rookie haircut'

Jul 15, 2019

https://imgflip.com/memegenerator

• oldrover

Post in thread 'Harry begs Brady: no rookie haircut'

Jul 15, 2019

• RelocatedPatFan

T

Post in thread 'Harry begs Brady: no rookie haircut'

Jul 16, 2019

" Don't haze me bro!!"

• Tony2046

Post in thread 'Harry begs Brady: no rookie haircut'

Aug 30, 2019

• IcyPatriot

Post in thread 'Harry begs Brady: no rookie haircut'

Aug 30, 2019

(Pssst: hair grows back. )

.......and sometimes it doesn't.

• patfanken

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
News from the 2020s​

July 14, 2020:

Patriots Announce Tentative Safety Protocols For Fan Attendance At Gillette Stadium | PatsFans.com

Patriots announce reduced capacity plans for Gillette Stadium's 2020 NFL season should MA state government allow for attendance.

www.patsfans.com

On Tuesday, the New England Patriots released more information regarding their tentative plans over fan attendance at Gillette Stadium this upcoming season.

In a statement shared over social media and in a letter to season ticket holders, Gillette Stadium will host just 20 percent of its total capacity in 2020 pending Massachusetts state and local approval.

Full Gillette Stadium capacity sits at 65,878, meaning no more than 13,175 fans will be permitted this season.

For fans to attend Gillette Stadium, the state of Massachusetts will have to be in “phase 4” of it’s reopening plan.

On game day, all ticketed parties will be expected to maintain a physical distancing of at least six feet from other parties, tickets will be arranged in blocks of 10 seats or less, and the first eight rows of stadium seats will not be used. Additionally, face coverings will be required at all times inside the stadium to keep all attendees safe.

In addition to the social distancing measures, the Patriots will offer free parking to all fans in Gillette Stadium parking lots.

MUST SEE: Social Media Reacts To Bill Belichick Filming Commercial For Subway | PatsFans.com

Social media reacts to Bill Belichick filming commercial for Subway sandwiches in Connecticut.

www.patsfans.com

VIDEO: Drew Bledsoe Shares Message Welcoming Richard Seymour To Pats Hall Of Fame | PatsFans.com

Drew Bledsoe welcomes 2020 inductee Richard Seymour to the Patriots Hall of Fame over Twitter.

www.patsfans.com

Zo believes Stid will start

Jarrett Stidham (Not Cam Newton) Will Start For Patriots, Says Scott Zolak If Zo is saying this it’s worth listening to... I know there are no guarantees with Cam but I can’t see how it’s such a done deal for JS4 either.

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Zo believes Stid will start'

Jul 14, 2020

Jarrett Stidham (Not Cam Newton) Will Start For Patriots, Says Scott Zolak

If Zo is saying this it’s worth listening to... I know there are no guarantees with Cam but I can’t see how it’s such a done deal for JS4 either.

• sb1
• Replies: 140
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Post in thread 'Zo believes Stid will start'

Jul 14, 2020

I don't see how it matters what Zo thinks on July 14, 2020. The team has yet to hold a combined practice. There is just no way of knowing anything. Whoever gives us the best chance to win on game day is who starts. That is BB's philosophy. Speculate until the cows come home. No one has any idea yet.

• imahobgoblin

Post in thread 'Zo believes Stid will start'

Jul 18, 2020

Can you clarify this?
The paid him literally the minimum. Less than a backup. He had no offers from anyone else. What would imply they wouldn’t have signed a guy off the street at the minimum to be a back up, or compete?

Cam Newton isn't "a guy off the street" making the minimum. He:
(a) has a huge chip on his shoulder (Belichick is used to coaching a QB who feels he has something to prove every game, BTW)
(b) has $6.5 MM in incentives and
(c) thinks that, while his real value might not be Patrick Mahomes' money, he is worth a lot closer to $30 MM than $7.5 MM and that this is his...

• PatsFanSince74

Post in thread 'Zo believes Stid will start'

Jul 22, 2020

Agreed, Cam is a not pure passer or an accurate passer. At best he could be Matt Cassel as a passer. The question is can he be Cassel as a passer and Cam as a runner. He is a tightend sized QB who can move the chains with his feet.

I look to his last season, under Norv Turner, which was really his first opportunity to play with an offense that was unpredictable and that could exploit his abilities in the passing game as more than an afterthought.

In eight games played, before injury, under Turner in 2018, Newton looked phenomenal and back to his 2015 NFL MVP level.

6-2 record...

• Palm Beach Pats Fan

Post in thread 'Zo believes Stid will start'

Jul 23, 2020

... don't even get me started on the enormous headstart Newton has when it comes to reading coverages and understanding defenses.

Again none of this is a dig at Stidham. Just playing the odds.

Be careful on estimating how much Cam "understands" about, anything...

The primary question here is whether or not Cam has the intellect to grasp & execute the system BB wants to employ...

...the secondary question is whether or not Cam has the discipline.

Combined the two present a VERY high hurdle...

• RASTAN99

July 14, 2021:

VIDEO: Tom Brady Pays Tribute To A Few Former Patriot Teammates During A Vacation Throwing Session | PatsFans.com

Tom Brady jokingly throws to his old Patriots teammates during a throwing session at his Montana summer home.

www.patsfans.com

NEWS: Patriots To Hold Joint Practices With The Philadelphia Eagles | PatsFans.com

Patriots announce joint practices with the Philadelphia Eagles prior to their preseason matchup in August.

www.patsfans.com

Top 10 players at each position

Stealing this from BSPN, they're doing a top ten at each position. Asking 50 people - players, coaches, executives and more (whoever more is) to vote and come up with a list. I won't link their stuff, so we can do our own. I'm basically judging this off the last two years, going into this year...

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Top 10 players at each position'

Jul 14, 2021

Stealing this from BSPN, they're doing a top ten at each position. Asking 50 people - players, coaches, executives and more (whoever more is) to vote and come up with a list.

I won't link their stuff, so we can do our own. I'm basically judging this off the last two years, going into this year.

QB
Brady
Mahomes
Rodgers
Wilson
Watson
Dak
Jackson
Allen
Tannehill
Ryan ... Right there - Stafford, Murray, Carr, Burrow, Herbert

IDL
Donald
Jones
Buckner
Heyward
Cox
Vea
Jarrett
Tuitt
Clark
Allen ... Right there - Campbell, Simmons, Williams, Q Williams, Lawrence

WR
Hill...

• BaconGrundleCandy
• Replies: 37
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Post in thread 'Top 10 players at each position'

Jul 16, 2021

Is DMac not elite anymore? That's a good faith question to which I don't have a preconceived answer.

Nope, I still think he's very good but I can't put him above any of those guys. Maybe 8-12 range depending on preference.

Bates is extremely underrated imo. Arguably the best single high in game. He's a fun watch. Him, Maye & John Johnson are all really underrated imo.

Marcus Williams as well. He got dogged on in Minnesota Miracle but was really good up until then and better since.

1. I mostly don’t have an issue with the QBs. Even though he choked like a dog in the playoffs...

• BaconGrundleCandy

Post in thread 'Top 10 players at each position'

Jul 16, 2021

Stealing this from BSPN, they're doing a top ten at each position. Asking 50 people - players, coaches, executives and more (whoever more is) to vote and come up with a list.

I won't link their stuff, so we can do our own. I'm basically judging this off the last two years, going into this year.

QB
Brady
Mahomes
Rodgers
Wilson
Watson
Dak
Jackson
Allen
Tannehill
Ryan ... Right there - Stafford, Murray, Carr, Burrow, Herbert

The top 10 is good, though I don’t know about Tannehill there. Despite all his age-related flaws and injuries, I think Roethlisberger would give...

• Ice_Ice_Brady

Post in thread 'Top 10 players at each position'

Jul 16, 2021

Dak is probably the most polarizing at #6, though that’s around where I rank him too. It’s just on the optimistic side because 6 is close to his ceiling.

I definitely like Dak more than most here. If healthy and that OL isn't trash I think he's a low-key MVP candidate.

I think he’s overrated. He’s had plenty of talent since being the starter and he has 2 playoff appearances in 5 years with only 1 win. He was massively overpaid.

Good thread btw.

And I think Judon is a top-10 DE/Edge.

We need to see how he does without all that talent he benefited from in Baltimore...

• TheRainMaker

July 14, 2022:

Patriots News 7/14: Daily Team Notebook | PatsFans.com

New England Patriots news for 7/14 along with some NFL Notes on this Thursday.

www.patsfans.com

Patriots Defensive Line Analysis and Morse's Morsels | PatsFans.com

This week I will concentrate on the Defensive Line. Last season the Defensive Line was shredded by the season's end. They had more holes than Swiss cheese. To me, the only shining light was Christian Barmore.

www.patsfans.com

NEW ARTICLE: Patriots Defensive Line Analysis and Morse’s Morsels

Patriots Defensive Line Analysis and Morse’s Morsels Mark Morse This week I will concentrate on the Defensive Line. Last season the Defensive Line was shredded by the season's end. They had more holes than Swiss cheese. To me, the only shining light was Christian Barmore. The post Patriots...

www.patsfans.com

C

Post in thread 'NEW ARTICLE: Patriots Defensive Line Analysis and Morse’s Morsels'

Jul 14, 2022

"...As a true nose tackle, Godchaux is not expected to make tackles but is supposed to occupy blockers and let the LB make the plays.."

That's part of the problem: Godsmack is Not a Nose Tackle. He's a 4-3 DT / 3-4 DE, same as Guy.


"...I would not be surprised to see him [Barmore] in the game on passing downs as well."

I should certainly hope so, since he disrupts the pocket better than he stops the run.


"...Can Cowart come back to the form he showed in 2020?"

What form was that?


"... He [Dee Wise] is nothing but a situational pass rusher..."

I actually feel he's more of an early-down...

• captain stone

Post in thread 'NEW ARTICLE: Patriots Defensive Line Analysis and Morse’s Morsels'

Jul 15, 2022

Patriots Defensive Line Analysis and Morse’s Morsels
Mark Morse
This week I will concentrate on the Defensive Line. Last season the Defensive Line was shredded by the season's end. They had more holes than Swiss cheese. To me, the only shining light was Christian Barmore.

The post Patriots Defensive Line Analysis and Morse’s Morsels appeared first on PatsFans.com.

Continue reading...

(If you enjoyed this entry - hit the Thumbs Up/If not, hit the Thumbs down in this thread)

Philips Academy. 1776 club. Today's Pats fan would go into cardiac arrest. We...

• p8ryts

C

Post in thread 'NEW ARTICLE: Patriots Defensive Line Analysis and Morse’s Morsels'

Jul 15, 2022

Philips Academy. 1776 club. Today's Pats fan would go into cardiac arrest. We went to them all, Philips, Amherst, Bryant. The player I remember from Philips was John Outlaw. He was walking with no shirt on and I had never seen anyone with muscles like he had.

He also had a nice 6-year run with the Eagles after he left the Pats... Outlaw was one of a few who Got Away when Chuck Fairbanks took over in 1973...

• captain stone

 

[jmt57]

Today in Patriots History
More news from the 2020s​

July 14, 2023:

Great article about Matt Judon

Very long article about Matt Judon. I think it was a really good read! ‘Kill or be killed:’ Inside the mad world of Matthew Judon

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'Great article about Matt Judon'

Jul 14, 2023

Very long article about Matt Judon. I think it was a really good read!


‘Kill or be killed:’ Inside the mad world of Matthew Judon

• Patsfan1958
• Replies: 1
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

July 14, 2024:

Wednesday Patriots Notebook 7/24: Training Camp Kicks Off | PatsFans.com

The Patriots are set to hold their first training camp practice of the 2024 preseason this morning, with the session currently scheduled for 11:00am on the practice fields behind Gillette Stadium.

www.patsfans.com

TRANSCRIPT: Jerod Mayo Press Conference 7/24 | PatsFans.com

Here’s the full transcript of what New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo had to say on Wednesday, July 24, 2024:

www.patsfans.com

TRANSCRIPT: Matthew Judon Press Conference 7/24 | PatsFans.com

Here’s the full transcript of what New England Patriots linebacker Matthew Judon had to say on Wednesday, July 24, 2024:

www.patsfans.com

MORSE: Welcome to 2024 Patriots Training Camp | PatsFans.com

Back from a long vacation just in time for the start of the 2024 New England Patriots training camp.

www.patsfans.com

Today In Patriots History - July 14: Pete Brock

Today in Patriots History Pete Brock Happy 70th birthday to Pete Brock Born July 14, 1954 in Portland, Oregon Patriot center/offensive lineman, 1976-1987; uniform #58 Pats 1st round (12th overall) pick in the 1976 draft, from Colorado Peter Anthony Brock played in 154 games with 88 starts...

www.patsfans.com

Today In Patriots History Thread 'July 14: Pete Brock'

Jul 14, 2024

Today in Patriots History
Pete Brock​

Happy 70th birthday to Pete Brock
Born July 14, 1954 in Portland, Oregon
Patriot center/offensive lineman, 1976-1987; uniform #58
Pats 1st round (12th overall) pick in the 1976 draft, from Colorado

Peter Anthony Brock played in 154 games with 88 starts with the Pats, and...

• jmt57
• Replies: 7
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

July 14, 2025:

Patriots News 7/14: Team Might Be Facing an Issue Ahead of Camp, Motivation For Stevenson? | PatsFans.com

One story that continues flying under the radar is the fact that second-round pick TreVeyon Henderson remains unsigned heading into training camp. Some might think it's not a big deal and that a deal will ultimately get done eventually. However, that may not necessarily be a given.

www.patsfans.com

This same time last year...

With camp next week on Wednesday. I can remember entering training camp at this time. First time Head Coach, a new GM, A first Time OC and DC, with a rookie QB. Unstable OL. The uncertainty we all had as fans, I personally had some optimism however it quickly faded. The contract dispute...

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'This same time last year...'

Jul 14, 2025

With camp next week on Wednesday. I can remember entering training camp at this time. First time Head Coach, a new GM, A first Time OC and DC, with a rookie QB. Unstable OL.

The uncertainty we all had as fans, I personally had some optimism however it quickly faded.

The contract dispute with Judon, the double speak from Mayo, Wolf and the organization just so many blunders. Now we have proven winners. Championship pedigree coaches back in Foxborough, as well as an upgraded roster. I know our wonderful Mods will put up the official training camp thread..however I want to hear the...

• Real fan 02
• Replies: 86
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum

Post in thread 'This same time last year...'

Jul 14, 2025

With camp next week on Wednesday. I can remember entering training camp at this time. First time Head Coach, a new GM, A first Time OC and DC, with a rookie QB. Unstable OL.

The uncertainty we all had as fans, I personally had some optimism however it quickly faded.

The contract dispute with Judon, the double speak from Mayo, Wolf and the organization just so many blunders. Now we have proven winners. Championship pedigree coaches back in Foxborough, as well as an upgraded roster. I know our wonderful Mods will put up the official training camp thread..however I want to hear the...

• ViperGTS

Post in thread 'This same time last year...'

Jul 14, 2025

You aren't wrong. I mean look at Diggs. That was an issue the local media was salivating over, yet another chance to degrade a local team that pays their salaries. Instead of Mayo tripping over his shoelaces, Vrabel was able to nip it because A) he isn't a dummy and B) players across the league respect the hell out of him.

My guess is the football in 10 days will be a breath of fresh air.

I wondered how Mayo would have handled that same situation, but then I remembered there was probably little chance Diggs would have chosen to sign in NE if Mayo was the coach in the first...

• Ross12

W

Post in thread 'This same time last year...'

Jul 14, 2025

It still boggles my mind that Jerod Mayo was actually hired as an NFL head coach. I’ve never seen worse leadership. Thank goodness Kraft saw how horrible of a mistake that was and fired him immediately after the 2024 season ended. I’m extremely thankful that Vrabel is now the Patriots Head Coach.

• WazzuWheatfarmer

Post in thread 'This same time last year...'

Jul 15, 2025

I honestly believe Mayo knows football and could possibly become a good HC one day.. however so many factors led into 2024 just being a disaster for him.

Huge difference between knowing football and coaching football... any sport, really, not just football

• Pape

July 14, 2026:

MORSE: Patriots Positional Analysis - Secondary | PatsFans.com

Patriots positional analysis breaks down the 'best in the league' secondary, detailing Christian Gonzalez's contract, Marcus Jones's role, and Kevin Byard's 2026 impact.

www.patsfans.com

NFL triplets rankings

Another list to ponder. Even though we made the biggest jump, could easily argue we should be higher. Another good/great year by Maye and top 3-5 next year is a reasonable expectation. https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-offensive-triplets-rankings-2026-season/

www.patsfans.com

Thread 'NFL triplets rankings'

Yesterday at 10:43 AM

Another list to ponder.
Even though we made the biggest jump, could easily argue we should be higher.
Another good/great year by Maye and top 3-5 next year is a reasonable expectation.

2026 NFL 'Triplets' rankings: Where every team's QB, RB, pass catcher combo stands

Ranking the best and worst QB-RB-WR combinations before the 2026 NFL season kicks off.

www.cbssports.com

• DoubleDeluxe
• Replies: 1
• Forum: PatsFans.com - Patriots Fan Forum