| May 02, 2004 | « Previous Story | HOME | Next Story » | Posted at 11:39 AM |
Outlook: Brady had arthroscopic surgery on his throwing shoulder to repair an injury he suffered late in the 2002 season and played with last season. He was throwing well in mini-camp and reports his shoulder feels strong. Davey is a big, strong-armed QB with starting potential. He is currently a star in NFL Europe, gaining needed playing experience. He likely will be the top backup this season, and could be traded for a draft pick next off-season, when he is a restricted free agent. Kingsbury is a project, but the coaching staff likes him, seeing similarities to Brady. In college, he had great intangibles and production, but was too thin, lacked arm strength and played in a wide-open, shotgun offense. Kingsbury spent a year bulking up, improving his mechanics and learning the Patriots’ offense. He will get his chance to show how ready he is in camp this year. Huard is likely headed elsewhere (possibly to the Giants to backup Eli Manning). The Pats will miss his veteran presence, but the feeling was the time had come to promote the talented Davey.
Outlook: Dillon provides a dimension the Patriots have lacked under Belichick: a proven feature back. The Patriots were 12th in the NFL in rushing attempts last year, but finished 31st in rushing yards. With Dillon getting the majority of the carries, the Patriots should get more yardage out of the running game. Additionally, the power-running Dillon should provide help in short-yardage and red zone situations, where the Patriots struggled last season. Dillon will have to overcome a reputation as a thug and me-first guy, and is basically being given a tryout with an incentive-based contract. Faulk will continue to be a valuable 3rd-down and ST contributor, but isn’t likely to see as many rushing attempts with the arrival of Dillon. The Pats were happy to get the power-running Cobbs in the draft, but his immediate contributions are likely to be confined to ST. Cobbs was a productive college player and talented runner, but questions about his speed and off-field issues dropped him to the 4th round. The Pats seem satisfied he will not be a problem player, but he needs a lot of work in the passing game, both as a receiver and in blitz pickup. Thus, it is doubtful he plays any role this season beyond ST. Cloud provides a veteran backup, but he looks like a long-shot to make the team, unless he has a stellar camp. Moreau and MacKenzie are camp bodies.
Outlook: McCrary was signed to start last year, but was on IR by midseason. He will have to prove his worth this season to stay, as the Pats are using the FB less in their offense. Pass enters his 5th season with the Patriots, and has managed to stick by playing strong on ST and displaying the versatility to backup at both running back and fullback. Crosby is more a pure fullback than Pass, but will have to prove his worth on ST to have any shot at all. Centers isn’t officially retired yet, and could return for one more season. However, with the Patriots moving more towards multiple-TE sets and de-emphasizing the traditional fullback, so probably only one of these players will be on the team this season.
Outlook: Though Fauria is listed as the starter, it is possible both Graham and Watson will be bigger factors this season. The hard-nosed, sure-handed, veteran Fauria will play the traditional TE role, but his lack of speed limits his impact in the passing game. Graham and Watson are both 1st round picks, with rare athletic ability for the TE position. Graham has struggled with drops, but has flashed his big-play ability and been a surprisingly strong blocker. Watson is big and fast, though his college production did not live up to his top athleticism, and some wonder if he can translate his physical skills into football production. The Patriots plan to utilize a lot of 2-TE and 3-TE looks, with Graham and Watson moving around and threatening the middle of the field in the passing game. Both players can line up as traditional TE’s, line up as H-back’s or in the backfield. The Patriots love to use motion in their offense, and having a couple players like Graham and Watson will allow them to get very creative in 2004. Baxter was inactive for most games last year, but gets a Super Bowl ring as a going away present.
Outlook: Branch and Givens emerged as dependable threats down the stretch last year, showing they are the Pats future. Branch has demonstrated the potential to become the team’s best WR. He is not very big, but is very fast with good change of direction and improving route-running skills -- and isn’t afraid to go up for the ball in traffic. Givens isn’t a burner, but he is a good athlete who plays very physical at the position, and is probably the best blocking WR on the team. Troy Brown is getting older (33 this season) and has struggled with some injuries the last 2 seasons, but still is a terrific 3rd-down WR when lining up in the slot. Bethel Johnson is an excellent kick returner who made some explosive big-plays last year, but was raw and inconsistent. Johnson played in a very basic offensive scheme at Texas A&M, and needs to learn to read coverage better and improve his route-running. If he can develop the mental part of the game and be more consistent, Johnson has the potential to develop into a top WR because of his pure speed (fastest on the team) and athleticism. David Patten spent last season on IR with a knee injury, but was a very productive option for the team in 2001 and 2002 (112 rec, 1573 yds, 9 TD in 2001 & 2002). Patten will have to prove he can still play to make the team, but his attitude, work ethic and knack for coming up with catches in big situations has made him a favorite of the coaching staff (so don’t count him out). P.K. Sam is a draft pick that probably came out of college a year early. He has some intriguing size and talent, but his lack of experience and conditioning make him a long-term project. It is difficult to imagine a scenario where he could make an impact in 2004, and if he is to make the team will have to do so with ST skills. Chas Gessner is a tall, slow former Ivy-league player who is currently playing in NFL Europe. He is doing a decent job there, but is a long-shot to make the team (he could be a practice-squad candidate). J.J. Stokes was signed as insurance last season when the Pats suffered a rash of injuries at WR, and he faces long odds at making this year’s club. He is tall and experienced, but a fringe NFL player at this point. Marquis Walker is a journeyman who played at Michigan with Tom Brady. Michael Jennings is a former Florida State track star who didn’t play football in college. He isn’t very big, but has speed to burn. Ricky Bryant is an undrafted FA out of Hofstra. Ward will not return.
Outlook: Dan Koppen helped save the season last year after Mike Compton suffered a season-ending injury. He performed admirably as the starting C during the season and through the Super Bowl run. Koppen is a very smart, technically proficient player, but will need to get stronger. Mruckowski was a 3-year starter at OG and C for Purdue, a bull of a player (6’,2”, 305#) with the smarts to be an Academic All-American. Considered a solid 3rd-round prospect, he went undrafted after blowing out his knee late in his senior season. The Patriots signed him and stashed him on the reserve lists for a year, and are very high on his potential. He has a good shot to make the team as a reserve interior OL. Woody is a big, athletic interior OL the Patriots let go in FA, and his athleticism will be missed. He was the Pats best OL at pulling out and leading screens and sweeps, and without him the Pats are likely to run fewer of those plays.
Outlook: Matt Light has been a fixture at LT for the Pats since being drafted out of Purdue 3 years ago. He is a very smart, sound and strong player who plays mean and physical, but doesn’t have the athleticism of a top LT. He probably would be moved to RT or OG for most teams, and the Patriots give him a lot of help with a TE or RB against top pass-rushers. Tom Ashworth is a former project who developed into a starter last season at RT. Ashworth is a pretty good athlete who converted from TE to OT as a junior at Colorado. The Patriots signed him off the 49ers practice squad in 2001, and he got stronger and improved his technique to make himself an NFL player. He is pretty sure to start for the team at RT. Adrian Klemm was Belichick’s first draft pick (2nd round) back in 2000, but a string of injuries have kept him from making any sort of impact. Klemm will likely be kept around as his versatility to play OG or OT make him a valuable backup. It wouldn’t be a shock if Klemm pushed to start at OG, but he needs to show the ability to stay healthy. Brandon Gorin is another project that could pay off, starting this season. Originally drafted by the Chargers after an illustrious career as a starting LT at Purdue (protecting Drew Brees), he made their team as a rookie. After being released in his 2nd training camp, the Patriots signed him to the practice squad. He had opportunities to sign with other teams as an active player, but the Patriots convinced him his long-term options were better staying with them, and agreed to pay him Active Roster money. He made the team last year, and the Patriots are very high on his potential. Very tall (6’7”) with long-arms, Gorin has worked hard at getting bigger and stronger. There is talk the Patriots think enough of him to project him as a potential replacement for Matt Light at LT should he in FA next season. Pruce is currently an NFL Europe starter at OT for Frankfurt, but he is unlikely to make anything more than the practice squad. He is very tall (6’8”) and played college football at Buffalo. Fadule (another Harvard guy) and Provost are also camp bodies.
Outlook: Keith Traylor was signed to help fill the void the Patriots had at NT, and likely will be a part-time player for the Patriots. Traylor still possesses a very good first step for such a big man, but he fails to sustain effort when his initial rush is stopped, and his weight is an issue. Getting Vince Wilfolk in the draft was a stroke of luck for the team, as he is a perfect fit in the middle of the Patriots defense. The question is how quickly Wilfolk can pick up the defense and carve out a role. Ethan Kelley was a 7th round draft pick out of Baylor last year who spent the season on the practice squad. He has the physical attributes to be an NFL nose tackle, but how he will develop is an unknown. Ted Washington was a force in the middle last year and solidified the teams rushing defense for the Super Bowl run. Though he is getting older, Washington is still a load inside and will be missed.
Outlook: Richard Seymour is one of the best DL in the NFL, and his versatility is a big part of the Patriots ability to switch between a 3-4 and 4-3 defense. One of the most amazing stats last year was Seymour’s 10 passes defensed (batted down), a number better than many defensive backs. Ty Warren developed nicely last year, improving a lot as the season progressed. However, his playing time was limited and it is not known how much of an impact he will have playing a larger role this season. Rodney Bailey was signed away from Pittsburgh as a RFA this season. He is a big 3-4 DE noted for his pass rush ability. Jarvis Green has developed nicely for the Patriots, and is versatile enough to play any position on the DL, including NT. Green has been a valuable rusher on passing downs, and played very well in the playoffs last season. Marquise Hill is a tall, long-armed DE with good athleticism. He left LSU as a Junior and the Patriots drafted him at the bottom of the 2nd round, falling due to personal issues and his needing time to develop. However, the Patriots were satisfied there would be no off-field issues after they received a good review from LSU head coach (and Belichick’s close friend) Nick Saban. They felt his ability would have made him a sure 1st round value had he stayed in college another season. Though Hill is still maturing physically and must work on his game, he does have the benefit of playing in with a similar scheme and terminology as he used in college. He is not likely to have a major impact in 2004, but could be a very good player down the road. Buck Rasmussen was in camp with the Patriots last season and is allocated to NFL Europe this season, but he hasn’t distinguished himself and isn’t a serious contender for a roster spot. Bobby Hamilton is a high-character, high-motor player who has been a good value and productive player since joining the team in 2001. Hamilton was reportedly looking for a multi-year deal, but at age 32 he has been unable to find any takers. The Patriots reportedly told him earlier on they would be willing to bring him back with a 1-year contract, but it is not clear if that offer still stands after they spent two high picks on DL in the draft. It is curious that Hamilton hasn’t landed with a team yet, as he has a lot to offer as a role player and locker room leader. Rick Lyle was a backup who played little last year. Anthony Pleasant is retiring after a long, productive career. The Patriots are trying to talk Pleasant, who has served as a mentor to the Pats young linemen the last few years, into returning in a coaching capacity.
Outlook: Bruschi is valued for his roles as both respected field general (he is a team captain) and defensive inspiration. Though not the prototype for the position, he possesses outstanding instincts and a high motor. He is always around the football and makes a lot of big plays. Roman Phifer had a freakish combination of size and speed at one time, but he is getting older and showed signs of slowing down last season (particularly in coverage). Still, he is experienced, physical and a good tackler, while still athletic enough to make his share of plays. Ted Johnson is a big, bruising LB who can take on blockers and stuff the run. However, he is a liability in coverage and is limited to rushing situations and goal line packages. Larry Izzo is a ST captain and leader, but is small and can’t play LB on a regular basis. Don Davis is another good ST player, but may not be able to make the team. Lawrence Flugence has played pretty good in NFL Europe, but is a long shot. Dorsey and Kurpeikis are camp bodies.
Outlook: Colvin was expected to be a difference-maker, but his 2003 season ended prematurely with a hip injury. His rehab has gone well and the prognosis is good, and the fact the Patriots restructured his contract shows they believe he will return. However, his type of injury requires a full-year recovery, so he could be a little slow to start the season. Vrabel is a smart, steady, underrated player whom the coaches love. He rarely makes a mistake, has the versatility to line up at LB or on the DK (even playing TE in goal line packages) and has a knack for coming up with big plays when the team needs them. McGinest was a season-saver after the Colvin injury. He stepped right in and was productive both against the rush and pass. McGinest is a very smart player who rarely gets fooled, and is one of the defensive tone-setters with his physical play and mean streak. Chatham is a very good ST performer who played admirably when forced into the lineup due to injuries. Klecko is being moved to LB this year, following a career path similar to former Belichick players Bryan Cox, Chad Cascadden and current Patriot Tedy Bruschi. The coaches love Klecko’s versatility, using him on ST, at LB, as a situational rusher, as a DL and as a FB in goal line offense. Though a project, he is a sure bet to make the team. Tully Banta-Cain started the season on the PUP, but showed strong on ST when he returned. Another college DE converting to LB, the coaches like his potential and he is likely to continue to learn the LB position while earning a role on ST. Alexander (another LSU guy) and Steen are both undrafted FA whose chances of making the team are only slightly better than my own.
Outlook: Law tried everything he could short of insulting Belichick’s mother to get released or traded to a team that would give him a contract extension, but he is back with New England for another season despite his high cap charge. Poole proved a good complement to Law, adding much-needed speed to the secondary and making a career-high 6 interceptions. Samuel solidified a role as the nickel-back as a rookie, showing quickness and a knack for being around the ball. However, he needs to get stronger if he is going to play anywhere but the slot, and dropped a couple interceptions. Burris provides veteran depth and experience, but is getting older and coming off injury. Otis Smith is back once again to try and carve out a role. At 38, it is questionable if he has the tools to play CB anymore. However, he is a smart, physical player with coach-like knowledge of the defense. It could be the Pats want Smith to play FS, which he did a little in 2000 and 2001 (they need depth at S). Christian Morton played with Wilson as Illinois and has NFL speed and athletic ability, but he slipped to the 7th round because he underachieved after a good sophomore campaign. Randall Gay is another LSU guy who made his way to NE because of the Saban/Belichick connection, but is probably a practice squad guy at best.
Outlook: Harrison proved to be one of the best free agent signings of last season. He brought leadership and big plays all season, receiving All-Pro recognition (although, curiously, no Pro Bowl invitation). Wilson added speed and versatility to the Patriots’ secondary, and proved to be very physical as well. He likely will remain at S this season, although his long-term future is at CB. The lack of depth the Patriots have after those two was exposed when they were injured in the Super Bowl, and that matter doesn’t appear to have been addressed with any certainty. Reid and Scott were both highly productive college players who play smart, fast and physical. However, neither have great size and both struggle in coverage. They should contribute on ST. Cherry is one of the NFL’s best punt gunners and a solid ST performer, but he is getting older and is coming off injury. Mayer is a try-hard guy who made the team last year through effort and showed something on ST. However, he looked lost in the Super Bowl when forced to play in the secondary. Farley is a small-college guy who the Pats sent to NFL Europe, where he is a backup. Jason Perry is another NFL Europe allocation, but hasn’t made an impact. Akins is a tremendous ST player who signed with Miami, but he isn’t much at S. Harris has good speed and some CB-like coverage skills, but he plays soft and the Patriots had no interest in bringing him back.
Outlook: Vinatieri had his worst year for accuracy since his rookie season (25-for-34, 73.5%), but continued to enhance his reputation as a clutch kicker by hitting the game-winning kick with seconds left in the Super Bowl. Vinatieri’s struggles were due to a bad back that bothered him all season, and he hopes to recover his trademark accuracy this season. The Patriots are so confident in Vinatieri they signed him to a guaranteed contract, and for the 2nd year in a row did not bring any competition for his job to camp. His teammates revere him.
Outlook: Miller represents a major upgrade to Ken Walter, who was among the NFL’s worst punters the last couple seasons. Miller has had a solid net throughout his career, although occasionally will out-kick his coverage and allow a good return. Scates was brought in to spell Miller in camp, and doesn’t have a serious chance of making the team. Walter has never had a big leg, but early in his career he was a good control punter with good hang-time that didn’t allow many returns. Walter was very good during the Patriots Super Bowl run in 2001, but has been erratic since (he seems to shank 1 or 2 every game). He has not been signed by anyone this season.
Outlook: Paxton is one of the NFL’s best long-snappers (famous for his snow angel in the end zone at the end of the “Tuck Rule” game in 2001) and has a long-term contract, but suffered an ACL injury last season. The Patriots have McDermott, who was signed last year as Paxton’s replacement before ending up on IR himself, and Sawyer as insurance should Paxton’s injury not heal properly. Kinchen was signed late last season after Paxton and McDermott were injured, despite his having not played in the NFL for three seasons. He had a history with Belichick from his time in Cleveland and with ST coach Brad Seely from his time with Carolina. He returned to long-snap and picked himself up a Super Bowl ring. Kinchen is now permanently retired and teaching religious studies to young children.
