The recent losses of players has a lot of people, including myself, questioning the "method to the madness" premise that is currently running the New England Patriots front office. During their run the past 5 years they have held to the philosophy of not overpaying for superstars, and signing role players to come in and execute the system. My question is, will this continue to work?
The losses of Willie Mcginest, David Givens, and Adam Vinatieri, while big, are not going to take the Pats of of contention for the playoffs, but after three superbowls in, now, 5 years, fans have come to expect more than just making the playoffs, and rightfully so. Let's face it, the AFC East wasn't very good last year for many reasons (IE Injuries, the Jets and Buffalo in general, etc...) So after losing to themselves against Denver, I have started to question some of the recent moves the Patriots have made.
I would understand choosing not to sign any one of these players, however not signing 3 players, who have played critical roles on this team, in the same off-season is a little bit baffling to me. The way I see it, the Patriots have gotten overly confident in the "In Bill we trust" mind-set. I agree that Bill Bellicheck is arguably one of the best NFL coaches of all time in every aspect (judging talent, making players conform to a system, and getting the best out of all his players). But, how long will these "role players" continue to exceed expectations. For example, Kevin Faulk. He had a great year last year, and is a solid player. But I don't think he is ready to carry the load (with a questionable Corey Dillon). More importantly, I don't see any evidence that the Patriots have been preparing him to be an starting running back. He has played the majority of his career in New England as a third down back. And with holes at corner, line backer, and only one proven wide receiver (pending Troy Brown's decision), I am anxious to see when and who they will sign or draft.
Since the off-season is far from over it is still "In Bill we trust", but come September that may change.
my theory on all this is....the PTB's in new england know the "dynasty" is over, therefore, they are allowing free agents to look for greener pastures, and older vets (like mcginest) to go elsewhere for a chance to win 1 more, reunite with old friends/coaches/teammates, or play for their hometown team. its a long shot, but can you argue with them not wanting to pay huge salaries to all those guys with the feeling that the team isnt good enough to make a good playoff run?
What the Patriots have done is basically inexcusable, but resigning troy brown and stephen neal today was huge. they are two players who will have a big impact on the team. vinatieri is the best kicker in the league, but Paul Edinger is a great cold-weather kicker who was already brought in for a tryout. Signing him would be smart, but after all, he's no Vinatieri.
Also, the Patriots have made inquiries about Eric Moulds of the bills, who is a few years older than David Givens, but is just as talented.
They're on the right track. If they sign Edinger and Moulds, that would be great. Signing Lavar Arrington probably won't happen, but that would be a huge way to replace McGinest. McGinest is getting old, but is immensely talented and will be sorely missed in New England.
I'm going to go out on a limb and say your not a colt fan. I am, so I couldn't be more happier with the colts signing Adam Vinateri. The only thing that can top this off is for Bill Polian drafting the best player available, and not reaching for that hidden gem that doesn't exist
This is my first blog.For the record i am a Pats fan,from back when Grogan got swallowed by the Bears D-line.Take this note down;Mcginest is about a year from retirement anyway,not that he still didnt produce on the line.Vinatieri is the best clutch kicker in the league,but his foot outside the 45 yard line was nevr accurate.The Pats, in my opinion need someone that has the long ball capability.Note the games lost by three points in the last few years.Now onto David Givens,One of the most sure handed recievers we have ever had.Great speed into the open field,shake and bake some of the better corners in the league.Now this guy i will really miss!!Now being a long time fan i know that Bill Belichick the master planner will not let us down.On to the point of Corey Dillon, Yes his season was just ok.His lower back strains and other injuries hampered his productivity.A young running back to groom is a great plan,and one that probably already in the works.Corner Asante Samuel good speed,but undersized,has the heart o####reat player(what to do).Tom Brady,the best QB since Montana.The best two minute drill runner in nfl history.Lets all take into account that we need to keep our frontline healthy to protect the franchise QB.
Wildboy from Maine
For the most part I am a college sports fan. I am a Boston College fan (born and raised) and a University of Tennessee fan (My alma matter). For the Pro teams I like the Pats, Celts, Bruins, and Sox of the red variety. I will try to write the most unbiased blogs I am able to however if you are a sports fan you know that it is easier said then done. I'd also like to add that I write all my posts while at work, so there maybe some spelling and grammar (amongst others) errors, for this I apologize in advance. I am not trying to be a columnist just trying to get my opinions out there. All comments welcome.
