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Other Discussions => Other / General Sports => Patriots / Football => Topic started by: Phantom255x on March 06, 2017, 03:31:45 PM

Title: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 06, 2017, 03:31:45 PM
FB James Develin has been re-signed on a 2 year contract!  8) ;D

To me, Hightower and Butler are the ABSOLUTE PRIORITIES to keep this FA.

Also, there's been reports that Adrian Peterson may be thinking of taking a discount to come to New England. I know J. Charles and A. Peterson have had a ton of injuries, but if either could be had for cheap as a potential "low risk, high potential" kind of guy, then sign me up!

Use this thread to talk about signings/rumors. Should be a busy week ahead.

Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 06, 2017, 03:38:06 PM
I'm really glad they brought Develin back; he's a really good fullback.

Agreed that Hightower and Butler are top priorities who need to be retained. And I would definitely take a flier on Peterson if he could be acquired on the cheap.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 06, 2017, 03:42:28 PM
I'm really glad they brought Develin back; he's a really good fullback.

Agreed that Hightower and Butler are top priorities who need to be retained. And I would definitely take a flier on Peterson if he could be acquired on the cheap.

TP, exact sentiments here.

Maybe Develin coming back sort of gave Peterson an extra incentive to consider coming here?

He's super underrated but actually a top FB in the entire NFL.

With Blount unfortunately leaving (at least that's what it seems), keeping Develin and signing another RB would be great, also to go along with Lewis/White. 

Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: TheTruthFot18 on March 06, 2017, 03:43:34 PM
I'm really glad they brought Develin back; he's a really good fullback.

Agreed that Hightower and Butler are top priorities who need to be retained. And I would definitely take a flier on Peterson if he could be acquired on the cheap.

I have a bad feeling we might lose Hightower. Then it would be Jones, Collins, and Hightower. It was supposed to be 1 or 2 of those guys plus Butler who should stay.

Regardless, this defense is going to be a shell of itself next year. We're going to lose to many extra pieces that can't be replaced in the draft or minimum FA signings. We already had a very weak front 7 that won a super bowl and we're looking at losing a good chunk of those guys this off season.

A very weak 2017 defense along with Brady being another year older and no youth on offense, 2017 could be ugly.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 06, 2017, 03:48:59 PM
I'm really glad they brought Develin back; he's a really good fullback.

Agreed that Hightower and Butler are top priorities who need to be retained. And I would definitely take a flier on Peterson if he could be acquired on the cheap.

I have a bad feeling we might lose Hightower. Then it would be Jones, Collins, and Hightower. It was supposed to be 1 or 2 of those guys plus Butler who should stay.

Regardless, this defense is going to be a shell of itself next year. We're going to lose to many extra pieces that can't be replaced in the draft or minimum FA signings. We already had a very weak front 7 that won a super bowl and we're looking at losing a good chunk of those guys this off season.

A very weak 2017 defense along with Brady being another year older and no youth on offense, 2017 could be ugly.

Unfortunately that's a big reason we didn't repeat two years ago as well.

Won a SB, then lost Revis (in his prime at the time - nice rhyme LOL), Browner, Big Vince (depressing), and some other key defensive cogs.

Then we didn't adequately replace them (only filled their spots with rookies and depth players), and while that may have worked much of the season, it got exposed in the final two games of the season which cost us #1 seed, and got exposed against Denver that year.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Fan from VT on March 06, 2017, 04:31:26 PM
I'm really glad they brought Develin back; he's a really good fullback.

Agreed that Hightower and Butler are top priorities who need to be retained. And I would definitely take a flier on Peterson if he could be acquired on the cheap.

I have a bad feeling we might lose Hightower. Then it would be Jones, Collins, and Hightower. It was supposed to be 1 or 2 of those guys plus Butler who should stay.

Regardless, this defense is going to be a shell of itself next year. We're going to lose to many extra pieces that can't be replaced in the draft or minimum FA signings. We already had a very weak front 7 that won a super bowl and we're looking at losing a good chunk of those guys this off season.

A very weak 2017 defense along with Brady being another year older and no youth on offense, 2017 could be ugly.

Unfortunately that's a big reason we didn't repeat two years ago as well.

Won a SB, then lost Revis (in his prime at the time - nice rhyme LOL), Browner, Big Vince (depressing), and some other key defensive cogs.

Then we didn't adequately replace them (only filled their spots with rookies and depth players), and while that may have worked much of the season, it got exposed in the final two games of the season which cost us #1 seed, and got exposed against Denver that year.

Im done questioning bellicheck in the off-season. I guess with perfect himdsight drafting and free agency, wed have 8-9 superbowl wins instead if 5? On the flipside, maybe we go "all-in" after the 3rd '04 SB, maybe win a SB in the next 3 years after that ( or not; nothing guaranteed, see '07), then turn into a capspace garbage fire for 4-5 years... i think BB's strategy has worked pretty well so far.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 06, 2017, 04:34:43 PM
I'm really glad they brought Develin back; he's a really good fullback.

Agreed that Hightower and Butler are top priorities who need to be retained. And I would definitely take a flier on Peterson if he could be acquired on the cheap.

I have a bad feeling we might lose Hightower. Then it would be Jones, Collins, and Hightower. It was supposed to be 1 or 2 of those guys plus Butler who should stay.

Regardless, this defense is going to be a shell of itself next year. We're going to lose to many extra pieces that can't be replaced in the draft or minimum FA signings. We already had a very weak front 7 that won a super bowl and we're looking at losing a good chunk of those guys this off season.

A very weak 2017 defense along with Brady being another year older and no youth on offense, 2017 could be ugly.

Unfortunately that's a big reason we didn't repeat two years ago as well.

Won a SB, then lost Revis (in his prime at the time - nice rhyme LOL), Browner, Big Vince (depressing), and some other key defensive cogs.

Then we didn't adequately replace them (only filled their spots with rookies and depth players), and while that may have worked much of the season, it got exposed in the final two games of the season which cost us #1 seed, and got exposed against Denver that year.

Im done questioning bellicheck in the off-season. I guess with perfect himdsight drafting and free agency, wed have 8-9 superbowl wins instead if 5? On the flipside, maybe we go "all-in" after the 3rd '04 SB, maybe win a SB in the next 3 years after that ( or not; nothing guaranteed, see '07), then turn into a capspace garbage fire for 4-5 years... i think BB's strategy has worked pretty well so far.

True. I just think if we lose Butler, we have a BIG hole at CB (especially if Ryan leaves too). I mean, who are our lockdown corners after that? Rowe? Coleman? Cyrus Jones? Not confidence-inspiring.

First Round Tender to Butler is what I predict (they ultimately keep him). Hightower is 50/50, but my gut tells me BB keeps him. He's a great leader, and probably without him, there are no SB's (he single handedly kept Lynch out of the endzone which led to another play which was the Butler INT, THEN a month ago, his strip sack was sort of the turning point of the whole SB - gave Brady a short field and a quick TD with little time used up and got them closer).
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Fan from VT on March 06, 2017, 06:25:02 PM
I'm really glad they brought Develin back; he's a really good fullback.

Agreed that Hightower and Butler are top priorities who need to be retained. And I would definitely take a flier on Peterson if he could be acquired on the cheap.

I have a bad feeling we might lose Hightower. Then it would be Jones, Collins, and Hightower. It was supposed to be 1 or 2 of those guys plus Butler who should stay.

Regardless, this defense is going to be a shell of itself next year. We're going to lose to many extra pieces that can't be replaced in the draft or minimum FA signings. We already had a very weak front 7 that won a super bowl and we're looking at losing a good chunk of those guys this off season.

A very weak 2017 defense along with Brady being another year older and no youth on offense, 2017 could be ugly.

Unfortunately that's a big reason we didn't repeat two years ago as well.

Won a SB, then lost Revis (in his prime at the time - nice rhyme LOL), Browner, Big Vince (depressing), and some other key defensive cogs.

Then we didn't adequately replace them (only filled their spots with rookies and depth players), and while that may have worked much of the season, it got exposed in the final two games of the season which cost us #1 seed, and got exposed against Denver that year.

Im done questioning bellicheck in the off-season. I guess with perfect himdsight drafting and free agency, wed have 8-9 superbowl wins instead if 5? On the flipside, maybe we go "all-in" after the 3rd '04 SB, maybe win a SB in the next 3 years after that ( or not; nothing guaranteed, see '07), then turn into a capspace garbage fire for 4-5 years... i think BB's strategy has worked pretty well so far.

True. I just think if we lose Butler, we have a BIG hole at CB (especially if Ryan leaves too). I mean, who are our lockdown corners after that? Rowe? Coleman? Cyrus Jones? Not confidence-inspiring.

First Round Tender to Butler is what I predict (they ultimately keep him). Hightower is 50/50, but my gut tells me BB keeps him. He's a great leader, and probably without him, there are no SB's (he single handedly kept Lynch out of the endzone which led to another play which was the Butler INT, THEN a month ago, his strip sack was sort of the turning point of the whole SB - gave Brady a short field and a quick TD with little time used up and got them closer).

Yeah. BB is not perfect, but he is among the best, if not yhe best, at overall rister construction and management. It is hard to stay good for a ling time in the NFL. No one, including BB, could expect perfection in roster building, too inexact of a science. And aometimes it does seem like they are 1 piece away from contending and oh why didnt they keep/sign/trade for X, Y, or Z, but i guess the tradeoff of lacking that primo first class dance ticket once a decade is that you do get a dance ticket every single year. And you dont get those dance tickets spending 25 million for 1 year of revis or, because of that, reworking it to be 3 yrs 60 or so for a player who could drop off any time.

I hope hightower and butler stay. Hightower might follow the mcourty route of seeing the offers in FA then resigning in NE for what is therefore known to be a fair deal.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 06, 2017, 06:47:16 PM
I think Hightower is different from Jones and Collins in that the team has had no issues with him, and there really are no significant flaws to his game. My suspicion is that they keep him.

I think they need to keep Butler too, or their secondary will be shot.

Yeah. BB is not perfect, but he is among the best, if not yhe best, at overall rister construction and management. It is hard to stay good for a ling time in the NFL. No one, including BB, could expect perfection in roster building, too inexact of a science. And aometimes it does seem like they are 1 piece away from contending and oh why didnt they keep/sign/trade for X, Y, or Z, but i guess the tradeoff of lacking that primo first class dance ticket once a decade is that you do get a dance ticket every single year. And you dont get those dance tickets spending 25 million for 1 year of revis or, because of that, reworking it to be 3 yrs 60 or so for a player who could drop off any time.

This pretty much sums up my view of the overall situation. I've often criticized Belichick for not getting a stud pass rusher/sack artist, but he does very well at maintaining a defense that overall is solid, usually by drafting well (Flowers) or getting guys who've been overlooked elsewhere (Sheard, Van Noy).
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 07, 2017, 03:34:10 PM
Some Updates Last 24 Hours:

1. Patriots tendered Cameron Fleming, Matt Lengel and Justin Coleman. Not major moves, but important because those are depth re-signings for the three thin positional groups (TE, OT, CB). Lost Vollmer, could lose Bennett and Logan Ryan, so this is some insurance.

2. Adrian Peterson may be willing to take a pay cut to play in NE. NE obviously won't break the bank on him or target him that highly in the FA class, but it's still an intriguing option. Unfortunately, Blount looks like he will leave so maybe adding Peterson + a draftee or another FA RB could be a great move. Or Jamaal Charles is another risky option (low risk, high reward type guy like AP).

3. Martellus Bennett is commanding around 9M/Year in the open market, and over half the teams in the NFL are really interested in him lol. Well, thanks for the Super Bowl and a compensatory 2018 3rd/4th round pick Bennett!

4. My GUT tells me the Pats will make a "veteran, low-risk, discount signing", and that guy looks like Brandon Marshall. He's tall (6'4''), and with Bennett leaving, he could function as a TE in some plays, but it gives Brady another legit weapon and I'm sure with Brady's window closing, the Patriots may be looking to go into "win-now" mode. #BlitzForSix

5. The price for Harmon is around 5-6M/Year, so I think BB keeps him at that price. He's underrated but has made plays including in the playoffs, and is a very solid depth safety with McCourty. Knows the system extremely well. This all but means Logan Ryan is gone though. So the search for a #2 CB could begin soon. I think Malcolm Butler gets the First Round Tender and stays.

Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: boscel33 on March 08, 2017, 04:53:52 PM
Pats getting TE Allen from Indy for a late round pick.  This is a smooth BB move!
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on March 08, 2017, 04:57:42 PM
Pats getting TE Allen from Indy for a late round pick.  This is a smooth BB move!
oooh I like Allen.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: SparzWizard on March 08, 2017, 05:02:53 PM
Dwayne Allen pickup is the equivalent to the 2014 Darrelle Revis and 2016 Martellus Bennett pickup.

Ayeeeeee
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 08, 2017, 05:07:10 PM
Interesting trade.

I guess it's goodbye to Marty. 
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 08, 2017, 08:14:18 PM
Pats getting TE Allen from Indy for a late round pick.  This is a smooth BB move!

Yep great move. 4th rounder for Allen + Colts 6th rounder.  8)

Bennett is probably gone now.

If they can keep Hightower I'll be extremely happy.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: max215 on March 08, 2017, 08:25:27 PM
I like the Allen move. He's a totally solid player, only 27, and on a deal that looks pretty attractive compared to what Marty's going to get. The next few days should be pretty wild, and hopefully this is just the first of a handful of big moves (I'm looking at you, Brandin Cooks and Jimmy.)
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 08, 2017, 08:31:53 PM
I like the Allen move. He's a totally solid player, only 27, and on a deal that looks pretty attractive compared to what Marty's going to get. The next few days should be pretty wild, and hopefully this is just the first of a handful of big moves (I'm looking at you, Brandin Cooks and Jimmy.)

I'm part of the group that wants to keep JG10 lol.

But yeah I would LOVE to get Brandin Cooks somehow.

Saints need a defense though and I think they'd want 1-2 draft picks + solid defensive player for him (might be understandably hefty). Already turned down the #32 and #43 swap Pats proposed.

DeSean Jackson is a pipe dream. Brandon Marshall is gone to NYG.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: max215 on March 08, 2017, 08:35:28 PM
I like the Allen move. He's a totally solid player, only 27, and on a deal that looks pretty attractive compared to what Marty's going to get. The next few days should be pretty wild, and hopefully this is just the first of a handful of big moves (I'm looking at you, Brandin Cooks and Jimmy.)

I'm part of the group that wants to keep JG10 lol.

But yeah I would LOVE to get Brandin Cooks somehow.

Saints need a defense though and I think they'd want 1-2 draft picks + solid defensive player for him (might be understandably hefty).

DeSean Jackson is a pipe dream. Brandon Marshall is gone to NYG.

I'm fine with any package for Jimmy that includes #12. For Cooks, I'd do #32 and one of our 3rds. The rest of my dream offseason includes retaining HighT at a reasonable-ish price and reaching a long-term deal with Malcolm Butler. Obviously, we need to find some way to improve the pass-rush as well.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 08, 2017, 08:39:01 PM
I like the Allen move. He's a totally solid player, only 27, and on a deal that looks pretty attractive compared to what Marty's going to get. The next few days should be pretty wild, and hopefully this is just the first of a handful of big moves (I'm looking at you, Brandin Cooks and Jimmy.)

I'm part of the group that wants to keep JG10 lol.

But yeah I would LOVE to get Brandin Cooks somehow.

Saints need a defense though and I think they'd want 1-2 draft picks + solid defensive player for him (might be understandably hefty).

DeSean Jackson is a pipe dream. Brandon Marshall is gone to NYG.

I'm fine with any package for Jimmy that includes #12. For Cooks, I'd do #32 and one of our 3rds. The rest of my dream offseason includes retaining HighT at a reasonable-ish price and reaching a long-term deal with Malcolm Butler. Obviously, we need to find some way to improve the pass-rush as well.

Yeah this draft though is flush with TE, CB, DE/LB.

I'd prefer they invest one of their first 3-4 picks in the entire draft on a TE they could develop. Gronk is still a liability at this point and Allen a solid #2 option.

Pass rush is a big need but keeping Hightower at this point is priority. Without him our LB becomes a bit thin as well and we NEED his leadership on the field.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: max215 on March 08, 2017, 08:49:55 PM
I like the Allen move. He's a totally solid player, only 27, and on a deal that looks pretty attractive compared to what Marty's going to get. The next few days should be pretty wild, and hopefully this is just the first of a handful of big moves (I'm looking at you, Brandin Cooks and Jimmy.)

I'm part of the group that wants to keep JG10 lol.

But yeah I would LOVE to get Brandin Cooks somehow.

Saints need a defense though and I think they'd want 1-2 draft picks + solid defensive player for him (might be understandably hefty).

DeSean Jackson is a pipe dream. Brandon Marshall is gone to NYG.

I'm fine with any package for Jimmy that includes #12. For Cooks, I'd do #32 and one of our 3rds. The rest of my dream offseason includes retaining HighT at a reasonable-ish price and reaching a long-term deal with Malcolm Butler. Obviously, we need to find some way to improve the pass-rush as well.

Yeah this draft though is flush with TE, CB, DE/LB.

I'd prefer they invest one of their first 3-4 picks in the entire draft on a TE they could develop. Gronk is still a liability at this point and Allen a solid #2 option.

Pass rush is a big need but keeping Hightower at this point is priority. Without him our LB becomes a bit thin as well and we NEED his leadership on the field.

I'm usually not one to vouch for dumping picks, but Cooks is a special situation. He's a VERY good player (probably better than his numbers, given the egalitarian nature of the Saints offense) and only 23. He'd be the best WR we've had in a LONG time (no offense to Jules, but maybe since Moss), and he's younger than Malcolm Mitchell! Guys like that don't come around very often. As for this draft, I've just started looking into it seriously, and I'm very impressed. I was hoping that we'd somehow land David Njoku prior to the Allen trade, but now I'm hoping we take advantage of the insanely deep EDGE class.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 08, 2017, 08:55:45 PM
I like the Allen move. He's a totally solid player, only 27, and on a deal that looks pretty attractive compared to what Marty's going to get. The next few days should be pretty wild, and hopefully this is just the first of a handful of big moves (I'm looking at you, Brandin Cooks and Jimmy.)

I'm part of the group that wants to keep JG10 lol.

But yeah I would LOVE to get Brandin Cooks somehow.

Saints need a defense though and I think they'd want 1-2 draft picks + solid defensive player for him (might be understandably hefty).

DeSean Jackson is a pipe dream. Brandon Marshall is gone to NYG.

I'm fine with any package for Jimmy that includes #12. For Cooks, I'd do #32 and one of our 3rds. The rest of my dream offseason includes retaining HighT at a reasonable-ish price and reaching a long-term deal with Malcolm Butler. Obviously, we need to find some way to improve the pass-rush as well.

Yeah this draft though is flush with TE, CB, DE/LB.

I'd prefer they invest one of their first 3-4 picks in the entire draft on a TE they could develop. Gronk is still a liability at this point and Allen a solid #2 option.

Pass rush is a big need but keeping Hightower at this point is priority. Without him our LB becomes a bit thin as well and we NEED his leadership on the field.

I'm usually not one to vouch for dumping picks, but Cooks is a special situation. He's a VERY good player (probably better than his numbers, given the egalitarian nature of the Saints offense) and only 23. He'd be the best WR we've had in a LONG time (no offense to Jules, but maybe since Moss), and he's younger than Malcolm Mitchell! Guys like that don't come around very often. As for this draft, I've just started looking into it seriously, and I'm very impressed. I was hoping that we'd somehow land David Njoku prior to the Allen trade, but now I'm hoping we take advantage of the insanely deep EDGE class.

If I'm not mistaken, I think Cooks is an RFA after this season (correct me if I'm wrong). He would likely command A TON of $$$. As we know, the Pats aren't the type to pay a ton of money on receivers. So would BB be willing to do a hefty trade for Cooks AND sign him to a big extension?

Also, Saints have reportedly turned down other offers involving MID-1st round picks. They'll obviously want more but I'm guessing if NE has to include #32, they will want their 3rd rounder as well, and another future pick OR current young defensive player.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 09, 2017, 10:41:31 AM
WOW. I wake up and good lord am I shocked.

1. Patriots expect to lose Logan Ryan now but they signed Stephen Gilmore at what could be a rate of 14M/Year. I'll admit I don't know much about him but when we played him it seemed that our WRs and Gronk torched him more often than not. Makes me nervous. Will they pony up and keep Hightower though? (I really hope they do).

2. Patriots may consider trading Malcolm Butler in a deal for Brandin Cooks. My reaction: NO NO NO!!! Butler is a SB hero and has played like an elite CB the past few years. Gilmore doesn't replace BOTH Ryan and Butler. This news better not be true.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 09, 2017, 11:01:07 AM
WOW. I wake up and good lord am I shocked.

1. Patriots expect to lose Logan Ryan now but they signed Stephen Gilmore at what could be a rate of 14M/Year. I'll admit I don't know much about him but when we played him it seemed that our WRs and Gronk torched him more often than not. Makes me nervous. Will they pony up and keep Hightower though? (I really hope they do).

2. Patriots may consider trading Malcolm Butler in a deal for Brandin Cooks. My reaction: NO NO NO!!! Butler is a SB hero and has played like an elite CB the past few years. Gilmore doesn't replace BOTH Ryan and Butler. This news better not be true.

A secondary with Gilmore and Butler together would be great.
Whether Hightower is back or not depends on what other teams offer.
I like what the Pats did trading for TE Allen.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: boscel33 on March 09, 2017, 11:39:45 AM
Patriots could send Butler to the Saints for Cooks though.  That would be freaking awesome!

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/03/09/report-patriots-could-trade-malcolm-butler-for-brandin-cooks/
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: A Future of Stevens on March 09, 2017, 11:43:30 AM
WOW. I wake up and good lord am I shocked.

1. Patriots expect to lose Logan Ryan now but they signed Stephen Gilmore at what could be a rate of 14M/Year. I'll admit I don't know much about him but when we played him it seemed that our WRs and Gronk torched him more often than not. Makes me nervous. Will they pony up and keep Hightower though? (I really hope they do).

2. Patriots may consider trading Malcolm Butler in a deal for Brandin Cooks. My reaction: NO NO NO!!! Butler is a SB hero and has played like an elite CB the past few years. Gilmore doesn't replace BOTH Ryan and Butler. This news better not be true.

My understanding of a Butler/ Gilmore secondary is that if they can keep both, it will be dominant for years. Gilmore isn't the largest CB, but he is most definitely in the top 1% of CBs for speed I have ever seen play the game. He is an athletic freak, and there is only a few wideouts who can get past him in this league. Basically you put Malcom on the better player, and Gilmore can tackle or swat anything thrown his way. Great pickup for the pats.

If our defense going forward is based around Hightower/Butler/Gilmore/ Devin Mc, then the pats defense is set for years. Our secondary is up there with the Broncos as the best in the league at that point. I also agree with the Allen trade. It is great.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Smokeeye123 on March 09, 2017, 11:52:19 AM
Im at the point where we could trade any player including Brady and I wouldn't care because I know we'd go at least 12-4 and at least make the conference championship.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: green_bballers13 on March 09, 2017, 12:19:38 PM
I like the Gilmore signing. He's a top athlete that has had many good NFL games.

 I would rather have Butler play for a year then leave via FA than overpay Brandin Cooks. Cooks doesn't seem like a Patriots signing. They have already committed enough money to their WRs/TEs. I'd rather see the Patriots sign a FA offensive lineman.

I like the Allen trade. He should be a good addition and possibly be a breakout candidate, esp. if Gronk misses more time.

Re: Butler, I think they should sign him and pass on Hightower. I'd rather they go after LBs and have a stout secondary. Apparently Hightower might get close to $20m per year, which is nuts.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: TheTruthFot18 on March 09, 2017, 12:28:48 PM
Im at the point where we could trade any player including Brady and I wouldn't care because I know we'd go at least 12-4 and at least make the conference championship.

Yeah, lets aim to be the Colts.

(https://usatftw.files.wordpress.com/2015/06/screen-shot-2015-06-11-at-4-08-03-pm.png?w=1000)
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: green_bballers13 on March 09, 2017, 12:38:29 PM
Im at the point where we could trade any player including Brady and I wouldn't care because I know we'd go at least 12-4 and at least make the conference championship.

Yeah, lets aim to be the Colts.

(https://usatftw.files.wordpress.com/2015/06/screen-shot-2015-06-11-at-4-08-03-pm.png?w=1000)

He said Tom Brady. Not Peyton Manning. Brady is more likely than not to make the AFC championship game (he's made 11/17). I believe Manning went to 5 (has a better winning % though).

The Patriots need to bulk up the offensive line to keep Brady's run as long as possible. The Gilmore signing gives them a top talent at a very important position. I think they're going to go through the negotiation process with Butler. Much like with Jimmy G, they can get draft picks with a trade. Good flexibility.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 09, 2017, 12:52:23 PM
On board with their moves so far.  Would like to see them take care of their own now with Hightower & Butler.

I don't think they're as needy at the WR position as made out to be although they could certainly get younger at the position. 

Draft seems to be pretty loaded on the defensive side of the ball so I wonder how much they'll address edge rushers there versus what's out there on the FA market. 

They've also sneakily being masterful at navigating the cap right now which is flying under the radar.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: green_bballers13 on March 09, 2017, 01:02:24 PM
Yeah, the Cooks rumor seems a little out of the norm. I think they should stand pat with Butler for the year, and hope he plays like Deion.

Re: spending- I think the Patriots are again taking care of the future by playing hardball with their players. I don't think the Pats go near Von Miller's contract w/ Hightower, and Butler might find his best deal on the open market. I would want to be unrestricted if I were him, so I would stick around in NE for a year at that tender then make crazy money. By that time, the Pats will have drafted a couple CBs. I love Malcolm Butler and hope he stays but understand if he wants to get paid near the top of the market. Nothing new with the Patriots- they will be ruthless if need be. I can't complain with the results.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Evantime34 on March 09, 2017, 01:13:24 PM
I hope the Pats can keep Butler. I think Butler and Gilmore would be an even better cb tandem than Revis and Browner a couple years ago. Maybe it's short sighted but I'd rather franchise Butler.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: colincb on March 09, 2017, 01:40:36 PM
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/03/09/patriots-sign-alan-branch-to-new-two-year-deal/

Alan Branch being re-signed.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 09, 2017, 01:47:15 PM
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/03/09/patriots-sign-alan-branch-to-new-two-year-deal/

Alan Branch being re-signed.

Big resigning for the defense.  Played very well last season.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: colincb on March 09, 2017, 01:49:47 PM
michael lombardi‏Verified account @mlombardiNFL  5m5 minutes ago

Quote
FYI....The Pats cannot trade Butler until he has a signed NE contract, right now he has been tendered, not signed.  He is a restricted FA

Might affect a possible Cooks deal.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 09, 2017, 01:55:59 PM
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/03/09/patriots-sign-alan-branch-to-new-two-year-deal/

Alan Branch being re-signed.

Big resigning for the defense.  Played very well last season.

Pun alert!!!

Yeah, the Cooks rumor seems a little out of the norm. I think they should stand pat with Butler for the year, and hope he plays like Deion.

Pun alert!!!

Man, I'm loving you guys today  8)
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 09, 2017, 01:56:57 PM
michael lombardi‏Verified account @mlombardiNFL  5m5 minutes ago

Quote
FYI....The Pats cannot trade Butler until he has a signed NE contract, right now he has been tendered, not signed.  He is a restricted FA

Might affect a possible Cooks deal.

I'd be shocked if the Pats trade Butler for Cooks. I think the Pats wanted to gauge what Butler's value is around the league, and will use that to adjust their contract offer to him accordingly.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: colincb on March 09, 2017, 02:19:40 PM
Ian Rapoport‏Verified account @RapSheet  6m6 minutes ago
More
 
Quote
The #Patriots are in good communication with LB Dont’a Hightower about a possible return, I’m told.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 09, 2017, 03:10:35 PM
Ian Rapoport‏Verified account @RapSheet  6m6 minutes ago
More
 
Quote
The #Patriots are in good communication with LB Dont’a Hightower about a possible return, I’m told.

Please be true! There was a FAKE account that said he signed for 5/77M lol.

I really hope we don't trade Malcolm Butler.

Trading Butler only opens a hole at CB since we add Gilmore BUT lose Ryan+Butler.

Meanwhile Cooks is more of a "luxury" (not a dire need).
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 09, 2017, 03:40:55 PM
Good take on why Pats might be pursuing Cooks: http://www.weei.com/sports/boston/football/patriots/ryan-hannable/2017/03/08/making-sense-patriots-being-interested-addi

(Note, I still don't think it happens, I think the goal is partnering Butler with Gilmore).
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 09, 2017, 03:40:59 PM
Not Pats related but we just saw, essentially, an NFL cap space trade.

Per Schefter

Quote
NFL stunner: Texans trade QB Brock Osweiler AND a 2018 second-round pick to Cleveland for the Browns to take Osweiler’s $16M salary of Houston’s books, per league sources. The move clears out millions in salary-cap space for Houston to intensify efforts to sign former Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo, per sources. To be exact, Houston saves $16 million in cash and $10 million against their cap this season. The Texans also will get the Browns’ fourth-round pick this year in exchange for their own 6th-round pick. So Cleveland gets Osweiler’s contract, a 2018 second-round pick and a 2017 sixth-round pick, and Houston gets Cleveland’s 2017 fourth-round pick, saves $10 million in salary-cap space and $16 million in cash. Cleveland is not committed to keeping Osweiler and is likely to try to trade him, per sources. If so, it would turn into a basketball-like trade in which NBA teams routinely trade contracts to get them off their books; only it rarely, if ever, happens in the NFL. It’s hard to remember in the salary-cap era another team when a team traded a contract to get it off its books. But Houston was so anxious to rid itself of Osweiler and move on to its next quarterbacking chapter that it is giving Cleveland extra picks to take him and his contract. The Browns headed into this free-agent signing period with over $100 million worth of salary-cap space and would struggle to spend it all. Now they can devote some of it to Osweiler’s contract and acquiring extra draft picks from Houston. But this is one of the most, if not the most, creative trade in NFL history.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 09, 2017, 03:42:22 PM
Deleted, Donoghus beat me to it!
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: colincb on March 09, 2017, 03:43:32 PM
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2017/03/09/patriots-keeping-safety-duron-harmon-as-part-of-busy-day/

Harmon coming back.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Fan from VT on March 09, 2017, 03:45:01 PM
So, I know i've said I've given up questioning BB...but it will be very interesting to see what logan ryan gets in free agency, as well as seeing if it makes Butler demand more than he otherwise would. Always risky to devote that much money to any non-qb, especially if its a player from an outside system. One thing about ryan is that at least you know that he fits and how he fits on the team.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: colincb on March 09, 2017, 03:45:32 PM
Good take on why Pats might be pursuing Cooks: http://www.weei.com/sports/boston/football/patriots/ryan-hannable/2017/03/08/making-sense-patriots-being-interested-addi

(Note, I still don't think it happens, I think the goal is partnering Butler with Gilmore).

I've read that Cooks is going to be moved today.

I wouldn't be surprised if Butler is traded. The Pats receiver core is long in the tooth.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 09, 2017, 04:08:14 PM
Good take on why Pats might be pursuing Cooks: http://www.weei.com/sports/boston/football/patriots/ryan-hannable/2017/03/08/making-sense-patriots-being-interested-addi

(Note, I still don't think it happens, I think the goal is partnering Butler with Gilmore).

I've read that Cooks is going to be moved today.

I wouldn't be surprised if Butler is traded. The Pats receiver core is long in the tooth.

I wouldn't call them long in the tooth. Edelman is 30, but Hogan is 28, Mitchell is 24, and Floyd is 27. Amendola's 31, but he's not a huge part of their offense.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 09, 2017, 04:14:39 PM
Good take on why Pats might be pursuing Cooks: http://www.weei.com/sports/boston/football/patriots/ryan-hannable/2017/03/08/making-sense-patriots-being-interested-addi

(Note, I still don't think it happens, I think the goal is partnering Butler with Gilmore).

I've read that Cooks is going to be moved today.

I wouldn't be surprised if Butler is traded. The Pats receiver core is long in the tooth.

I wouldn't call them long in the tooth. Edelman is 30, but Hogan is 28, Mitchell is 24, and Floyd is 27. Amendola's 31, but he's not a huge part of their offense.

It certainly wouldn't hurt to get younger at the position.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 09, 2017, 04:22:26 PM
Good take on why Pats might be pursuing Cooks: http://www.weei.com/sports/boston/football/patriots/ryan-hannable/2017/03/08/making-sense-patriots-being-interested-addi

(Note, I still don't think it happens, I think the goal is partnering Butler with Gilmore).

I've read that Cooks is going to be moved today.

I wouldn't be surprised if Butler is traded. The Pats receiver core is long in the tooth.

I wouldn't call them long in the tooth. Edelman is 30, but Hogan is 28, Mitchell is 24, and Floyd is 27. Amendola's 31, but he's not a huge part of their offense.

It certainly wouldn't hurt to get younger at the position.

Not at all.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 09, 2017, 05:37:38 PM
1. WOW. Gilmore's deal is 5 Years, 65M (40M guaranteed). Highest guaranteed $$$ ever given by the Patriots to a single defensive player (McCourty previously held the record with 28.5M)

2. Pats re-sign Duron Harmon at a modest 4/20M. Great move!

3. So the Browns and Texans gave us all a laugh and made a trade with Osweiler involved. However, Browns got a pick out of that. So the purpose? Well, maybe Browns trade for Osweiler to get that pick, THEN trade Osweiler to some desperate team for another pick (or simply release him but still keep that 2nd round pick). The logic? Accumulate picks so that you can offer a ton of picks for JG10 still? Not out of the question it seems.

http://www.patspulpit.com/2017/3/9/14873742/did-the-browns-make-an-nba-style-trade-to-prepare-for-patriots-qb-jimmy-garoppolo

4. Pats and Hightower are having good discussions on an extension. I really hope they can reach one. His market seems to be 10-13M/Year. He definitely deserves it especially with Gilmore signed at that rate. Pats do have the cap space as well.

5. Looks like Brandin Cooks trade rumors have stalled for a bit but Saints also understandably aren't in a rush to trade him right now. Still exploring their options. Aka we still have Malcolm Butler for now!  ;D
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 09, 2017, 05:54:01 PM
1. WOW. Gilmore's deal is 5 Years, 65M (40M guaranteed). Highest guaranteed $$$ ever given by the Patriots to a single defensive player (McCourty previously held the record with 28.5M)

2. Pats re-sign Duron Harmon at a modest 4/20M. Great move!

3. So the Browns and Texans gave us all a laugh and made a trade with Osweiler involved. However, Browns got a pick out of that. So the purpose? Well, maybe Browns trade for Osweiler to get that pick, THEN trade Osweiler to some desperate team for another pick (or simply release him but still keep that 2nd round pick). The logic? Accumulate picks so that you can offer a ton of picks for JG10 still? Not out of the question it seems.

http://www.patspulpit.com/2017/3/9/14873742/did-the-browns-make-an-nba-style-trade-to-prepare-for-patriots-qb-jimmy-garoppolo

4. Pats and Hightower are having good discussions on an extension. I really hope they can reach one. His market seems to be 10-13M/Year. He definitely deserves it especially with Gilmore signed at that rate. Pats do have the cap space as well.

5. Looks like Brandin Cooks trade rumors have stalled for a bit but Saints also understandably aren't in a rush to trade him right now. Still exploring their options. Aka we still have Malcolm Butler for now!  ;D

TP for all the updates!

So far, so good for the Pats offseason.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 09, 2017, 06:00:55 PM
1. WOW. Gilmore's deal is 5 Years, 65M (40M guaranteed). Highest guaranteed $$$ ever given by the Patriots to a single defensive player (McCourty previously held the record with 28.5M)

2. Pats re-sign Duron Harmon at a modest 4/20M. Great move!

3. So the Browns and Texans gave us all a laugh and made a trade with Osweiler involved. However, Browns got a pick out of that. So the purpose? Well, maybe Browns trade for Osweiler to get that pick, THEN trade Osweiler to some desperate team for another pick (or simply release him but still keep that 2nd round pick). The logic? Accumulate picks so that you can offer a ton of picks for JG10 still? Not out of the question it seems.

http://www.patspulpit.com/2017/3/9/14873742/did-the-browns-make-an-nba-style-trade-to-prepare-for-patriots-qb-jimmy-garoppolo

4. Pats and Hightower are having good discussions on an extension. I really hope they can reach one. His market seems to be 10-13M/Year. He definitely deserves it especially with Gilmore signed at that rate. Pats do have the cap space as well.

5. Looks like Brandin Cooks trade rumors have stalled for a bit but Saints also understandably aren't in a rush to trade him right now. Still exploring their options. Aka we still have Malcolm Butler for now!  ;D

TP for all the updates!

So far, so good for the Pats offseason.

I love what Schefter said on First Take today. He was surprised by all of the Patriots moves.

He said the Patriots were making moves like an aggressive team that had never won a SB before LOL.

BB seems to be going "win-now" mode now with TB12 having only 2-3 years left.

UPDATE: Mingo to the Colts on a 1 year/2.5 M deal.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: green_bballers13 on March 09, 2017, 08:57:48 PM
I don't think he only has 2-3yrs left. I think he'll have the ability and body for 4-6 more years if he has the desire.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 10, 2017, 12:25:36 AM
As expected, Logan Ryan gone. To Tennessee for 3/30M.

Second big departure so far after Chris Long.

Really hope they keep Hightower. That's the most important thing right now.

Oh and working out something with Butler too (don't want him traded, and can you imagine a Gilmore-Butler CB pairing in the secondary).
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 10, 2017, 04:04:20 PM
Pats just traded for Kony Ealy from the Panthers.

Pats 2nd rounder for Ealy + Carolina 3rd rounder.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 10, 2017, 04:07:28 PM
Pats just traded for Kony Ealy from the Panthers.

Pats 2nd rounder for Ealy + Carolina 3rd rounder.

So basically they traded down 8 spots to take a flyer on Ealy? Not bad. I don't know what Ealy will give them but worth the risk if that's all it costs.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Bobshot on March 10, 2017, 04:23:20 PM
Now why do I get the impression Belichick the GM is the anti-Danny Ainge?
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on March 10, 2017, 04:27:19 PM
Don't look now, but the Patriots are killing it this offseason.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on March 10, 2017, 04:29:24 PM
As expected, Logan Ryan gone. To Tennessee for 3/30M.
To put this in perspective, Ryan signed for 10M per, and the Patriots got Gilmore for $13M per instead. I think the team made out pretty well.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on March 10, 2017, 04:48:30 PM
Good take on why Pats might be pursuing Cooks: http://www.weei.com/sports/boston/football/patriots/ryan-hannable/2017/03/08/making-sense-patriots-being-interested-addi

(Note, I still don't think it happens, I think the goal is partnering Butler with Gilmore).

I've read that Cooks is going to be moved today.

I wouldn't be surprised if Butler is traded. The Pats receiver core is long in the tooth.

I wouldn't call them long in the tooth. Edelman is 30, but Hogan is 28, Mitchell is 24, and Floyd is 27. Amendola's 31, but he's not a huge part of their offense.
Floyd is not under contract, and given that he's going to spend a lot of time in jail and away from the team, it's unclear how this will pan out. Amendola just restructured, so he'll likely be around for a year or two.

I still think the plan is to either match Butler or have him play for the QO and then perhaps franchise him next season -- but I wouldn't be surprised if they choose to flip him for Cooks.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: colincb on March 10, 2017, 05:11:14 PM
Jabaal Sheard is gone to the Colts


Quote
Adam Schefter‏Verified account @AdamSchefter 5m5 minutes ago

Colts giving Jabaal Sheard a three-year deal for $25.5M, including $12.75M guaranteed, per source.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 10, 2017, 05:32:44 PM
Jabaal Sheard is gone to the Colts


Quote
Adam Schefter‏Verified account @AdamSchefter 5m5 minutes ago

Colts giving Jabaal Sheard a three-year deal for $25.5M, including $12.75M guaranteed, per source.

Eww. The Colts.

But they overpaid for him LOL.

He helped at times but honestly seemed to disappear a lot as well. Was in BB's doghouse for a time also.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 10, 2017, 05:33:52 PM
Pats just traded for Kony Ealy from the Panthers.

Pats 2nd rounder for Ealy + Carolina 3rd rounder.

So basically they traded down 8 spots to take a flyer on Ealy? Not bad. I don't know what Ealy will give them but worth the risk if that's all it costs.

He pretty much replaces Chris Long in a sense and had a BEAST SB50.

Still think they'll draft some pass rush as well in the early rounds.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 10, 2017, 05:34:37 PM
Good take on why Pats might be pursuing Cooks: http://www.weei.com/sports/boston/football/patriots/ryan-hannable/2017/03/08/making-sense-patriots-being-interested-addi

(Note, I still don't think it happens, I think the goal is partnering Butler with Gilmore).

I've read that Cooks is going to be moved today.

I wouldn't be surprised if Butler is traded. The Pats receiver core is long in the tooth.

I wouldn't call them long in the tooth. Edelman is 30, but Hogan is 28, Mitchell is 24, and Floyd is 27. Amendola's 31, but he's not a huge part of their offense.
Floyd is not under contract, and given that he's going to spend a lot of time in jail and away from the team, it's unclear how this will pan out. Amendola just restructured, so he'll likely be around for a year or two.

I still think the plan is to either match Butler or have him play for the QO and then perhaps franchise him next season -- but I wouldn't be surprised if they choose to flip him for Cooks.

Wait did Amendola already restructure?

I know he did the past few years but I haven't seen any news saying he's done it already this year.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: footey on March 10, 2017, 05:54:48 PM
Jabaal Sheard is gone to the Colts


Quote
Adam Schefter‏Verified account @AdamSchefter 5m5 minutes ago

Colts giving Jabaal Sheard a three-year deal for $25.5M, including $12.75M guaranteed, per source.

I like to see guys who leave get good $$. Makes it look like a good financial investment to come here and win, so encourage more "make good" deals for FA's. 
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on March 10, 2017, 06:05:14 PM
Good take on why Pats might be pursuing Cooks: http://www.weei.com/sports/boston/football/patriots/ryan-hannable/2017/03/08/making-sense-patriots-being-interested-addi

(Note, I still don't think it happens, I think the goal is partnering Butler with Gilmore).

I've read that Cooks is going to be moved today.

I wouldn't be surprised if Butler is traded. The Pats receiver core is long in the tooth.

I wouldn't call them long in the tooth. Edelman is 30, but Hogan is 28, Mitchell is 24, and Floyd is 27. Amendola's 31, but he's not a huge part of their offense.
Floyd is not under contract, and given that he's going to spend a lot of time in jail and away from the team, it's unclear how this will pan out. Amendola just restructured, so he'll likely be around for a year or two.

I still think the plan is to either match Butler or have him play for the QO and then perhaps franchise him next season -- but I wouldn't be surprised if they choose to flip him for Cooks.

Wait did Amendola already restructure?

I know he did the past few years but I haven't seen any news saying he's done it already this year.
nope. He did it last year and he'll have to do it again if he wants to play with Tom Brady again next season.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: tarheelsxxiii on March 10, 2017, 06:29:47 PM
Ealy may be a piece of work:  http://www.thescore.com/news/958909 (http://www.thescore.com/news/958909)

Quote
The lawsuit states the three men started spending time together, and Ealy and Jones told Johnson of their plans to breed and sell Boerboels, a dog breed that can reach more than 200 pounds. Johnson says the brothers asked him for $6,000 to purchase a breeding female, promising their business would bring in $35,000 per litter and over $1 million per year.

On July 12, Johnson wrote a check for $3,000, but no dog or litter were ever produced, and his repeated calls for a refund went unanswered, according to the lawsuit.

I personally don't mind if he can pressure opposing QBs.  Gotta appreciate a man with his level of business acumen, too.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on March 10, 2017, 06:34:49 PM
Good take on why Pats might be pursuing Cooks: http://www.weei.com/sports/boston/football/patriots/ryan-hannable/2017/03/08/making-sense-patriots-being-interested-addi

(Note, I still don't think it happens, I think the goal is partnering Butler with Gilmore).

I've read that Cooks is going to be moved today.

I wouldn't be surprised if Butler is traded. The Pats receiver core is long in the tooth.

I wouldn't call them long in the tooth. Edelman is 30, but Hogan is 28, Mitchell is 24, and Floyd is 27. Amendola's 31, but he's not a huge part of their offense.
Floyd is not under contract, and given that he's going to spend a lot of time in jail and away from the team, it's unclear how this will pan out. Amendola just restructured, so he'll likely be around for a year or two.

I still think the plan is to either match Butler or have him play for the QO and then perhaps franchise him next season -- but I wouldn't be surprised if they choose to flip him for Cooks.

Wait did Amendola already restructure?

I know he did the past few years but I haven't seen any news saying he's done it already this year.
It seems I stumbled into an article from last year. OTOH, I did find this:

http://www.patspulpit.com/2017/2/20/14666990/new-england-patriots-danny-amendola-open-pay-cut-nfl-offseason-tom-brady-super-bowl-free-agency
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 10, 2017, 06:40:47 PM
Martysaurus Rex to Green Bay.

Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on March 10, 2017, 06:51:42 PM
Martysaurus Rex to Green Bay.
I'm curious about the contract details on this one.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: MJohnnyboy on March 10, 2017, 07:41:46 PM
Holy Edited.  Profanity and masked profanity are against forum rules and may result in discipline..

https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/840361522429870081
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 10, 2017, 07:47:16 PM
Holy ****.

https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/840361522429870081

Wow.  Pats seem to be going all in.    So Butler is still in play. 
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on March 10, 2017, 07:50:31 PM
Offseason feels a lot like '07.

Team should be unfair.

That said, plenty of super teams have failed miserably.

Perhaps Jimmy gets moved to refill the coffers in terms of picks?
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 10, 2017, 07:54:00 PM
Holy ****.

https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/840361522429870081

Wow.  Pats seem to be going all in.    So Butler is still in play.

In the words of TB12: "LETS GOOOOOO"
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 10, 2017, 08:00:13 PM
Holy ****.

https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/840361522429870081

Wow.  Pats seem to be going all in.    So Butler is still in play.

That was my thought as well. Pats going all in. And even after all this wheeling and dealing they have about $30+M left in cap space.

My hopes right now are that Pats re-sign Hightower and extend Butler, then just sit back and take BPA with whatever picks they have available at the draft.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on March 10, 2017, 08:03:23 PM
Brady
Cooks
Lewis
Gronkowski
Edelman
Mitchell
Allen
Hogan
solid-good O-line

Brady taking aim at Manning's 55 TD record?
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on March 10, 2017, 08:06:04 PM
Also, NE still has 40+ mil in cap room. No reason not to extend Butler and Hightower and still have 10+ mil to play with.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: TheTruthFot18 on March 10, 2017, 08:17:25 PM
Brady
Cooks
Lewis
Gronkowski
Edelman
Mitchell
Allen
Hogan
solid-good O-line

Brady taking aim at Manning's 55 TD record?

Who cares? He already has 2.5X as many rings.  ;D
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: MJohnnyboy on March 10, 2017, 08:19:17 PM
Brady
Cooks
Lewis
Gronkowski
Edelman
Mitchell
Allen
Hogan
solid-good O-line

Brady taking aim at Manning's 55 TD record?

Who cares? He already has 2.5X as many rings.  ;D

He wants to beat Manning in every way possible so that there is no more doubt as to who the best is.

Don't get me wrong, this SB solidified to me that Brady is the GOAT but there are others who still doubt. We must get rid of that doubt.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: esel1000 on March 10, 2017, 08:24:58 PM
Team is stacked... BB is truly amazing
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on March 10, 2017, 08:33:57 PM
Offseason feels a lot like '07.

Team should be unfair.

That said, plenty of super teams have failed miserably.

Perhaps Jimmy gets moved to refill the coffers in terms of picks?

Agree with that last bit. Cleveland has been hoarding picks and doesn't sound like they are keeping Brock.

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: hpantazo on March 10, 2017, 08:35:41 PM
Brady
Cooks
Lewis
Gronkowski
Edelman
Mitchell
Allen
Hogan
solid-good O-line

Brady taking aim at Manning's 55 TD record?

Who cares? He already has 2.5X as many rings.  ;D

He wants to beat Manning in every way possible so that there is no more doubt as to who the best is.

Don't get me wrong, this SB solidified to me that Brady is the GOAT but there are others who still doubt. We must get rid of that doubt.

6 Super Bowl wins gets rid of all doubts.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: hpantazo on March 10, 2017, 08:36:53 PM
Offseason feels a lot like '07.

Team should be unfair.

That said, plenty of super teams have failed miserably.

Perhaps Jimmy gets moved to refill the coffers in terms of picks?

Agree with that last bit. Cleveland has been hoarding picks and doesn't sound like they are keeping Brock.

Mike

Patriots should keep Garopolo. He's excellent insurance for Tom Brady , and we do need an excellent candidate to take over starting QB in a couple of seasons.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on March 10, 2017, 08:49:15 PM
Now why do I get the impression Belichick the GM is the anti-Danny Ainge?

They both like to win their trades and are patient. They also like to stash draft picks (although 2017 seems to be the exception).

The difference is that BB can afford to get a lot of singles and doubles because he has 22 players to deal with, while Ainge wants the home run.

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on March 10, 2017, 08:52:22 PM
Correct me if I'm wrong, but our first four rounds are as follows:

1) Gone
2) We have our pick
3) Jamie Collins compensation pick
4) The 4th rounder we just picked up from NO
5-7) A little of this and a little of that

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Fan from VT on March 10, 2017, 08:57:22 PM
Now why do I get the impression Belichick the GM is the anti-Danny Ainge?

They both like to win their trades and are patient. They also like to stash draft picks (although 2017 seems to be the exception).

The difference is that BB can afford to get a lot of singles and doubles because he has 22 players to deal with, while Ainge wants the home run.

Mike

Also because you already are working with an annual home run with Brady and a Triple with Gronk. So he just needs a few more solid base hits each year.

Edit- it would be like if Ainge had to use his assets to build a team but already had Lebron and Blake Griffin on the roster.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: tarheelsxxiii on March 10, 2017, 08:58:38 PM
And the rich get richer.  I don't know how much more hated the Pats can become, but I'm interested to find out.  :)
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: CelticSince83 on March 10, 2017, 09:02:32 PM
Correct me if I'm wrong, but our first four rounds are as follows:

1) Gone
2) We have our pick
3) Jamie Collins compensation pick
4) The 4th rounder we just picked up from NO
5-7) A little of this and a little of that

Mike

2nd gone from Ealy trade, have CAR's 3rd. 
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: max215 on March 10, 2017, 09:02:33 PM
I like the Allen move. He's a totally solid player, only 27, and on a deal that looks pretty attractive compared to what Marty's going to get. The next few days should be pretty wild, and hopefully this is just the first of a handful of big moves (I'm looking at you, Brandin Cooks and Jimmy.)

I'm part of the group that wants to keep JG10 lol.

But yeah I would LOVE to get Brandin Cooks somehow.

Saints need a defense though and I think they'd want 1-2 draft picks + solid defensive player for him (might be understandably hefty).

DeSean Jackson is a pipe dream. Brandon Marshall is gone to NYG.

I'm fine with any package for Jimmy that includes #12. For Cooks, I'd do #32 and one of our 3rds. The rest of my dream offseason includes retaining HighT at a reasonable-ish price and reaching a long-term deal with Malcolm Butler. Obviously, we need to find some way to improve the pass-rush as well.

Well, guys. Turns out I'm actually Belichick.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on March 10, 2017, 09:03:53 PM
Offseason feels a lot like '07.

Team should be unfair.

That said, plenty of super teams have failed miserably.

Perhaps Jimmy gets moved to refill the coffers in terms of picks?

Agree with that last bit. Cleveland has been hoarding picks and doesn't sound like they are keeping Brock.

Mike

Patriots should keep Garopolo. He's excellent insurance for Tom Brady , and we do need an excellent candidate to take over starting QB in a couple of seasons.
in a couple seasons?

I feel like it only makes sense to keep Jimmy if you think this is Toms last season.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: max215 on March 10, 2017, 09:04:37 PM
Correct me if I'm wrong, but our first four rounds are as follows:

1) Gone
2) We have our pick
3) Jamie Collins compensation pick
4) The 4th rounder we just picked up from NO
5-7) A little of this and a little of that

Mike

Nope, no second. We traded down with Carolina from #64 to #72.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on March 10, 2017, 09:04:41 PM
Correct me if I'm wrong, but our first four rounds are as follows:

1) Gone
2) We have our pick
3) Jamie Collins compensation pick
4) The 4th rounder we just picked up from NO
5-7) A little of this and a little of that

Mike

2nd gone from Ealy trade, have CAR's 3rd.
the second was pick 64 the third we acquired was pick 72.

we moved down 8 picks to get Ealy.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: CelticSince83 on March 10, 2017, 09:21:38 PM
Correct me if I'm wrong, but our first four rounds are as follows:

1) Gone
2) We have our pick
3) Jamie Collins compensation pick
4) The 4th rounder we just picked up from NO
5-7) A little of this and a little of that

Mike

2nd gone from Ealy trade, have CAR's 3rd.
the second was pick 64 the third we acquired was pick 72.

we moved down 8 picks to get Ealy.

so like i said, the patriots do not have their own second round pick.  they have carolina's third. 
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on March 10, 2017, 09:28:31 PM
Correct me if I'm wrong, but our first four rounds are as follows:

1) Gone
2) We have our pick
3) Jamie Collins compensation pick
4) The 4th rounder we just picked up from NO
5-7) A little of this and a little of that

Mike

2nd gone from Ealy trade, have CAR's 3rd.

Thanks. TP for being the first to catch it.

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on March 10, 2017, 09:29:21 PM
Correct me if I'm wrong, but our first four rounds are as follows:

1) Gone
2) We have our pick
3) Jamie Collins compensation pick
4) The 4th rounder we just picked up from NO
5-7) A little of this and a little of that

Mike

2nd gone from Ealy trade, have CAR's 3rd.
the second was pick 64 the third we acquired was pick 72.

we moved down 8 picks to get Ealy.

so like i said, the patriots do not have their own second round pick.  they have carolina's third.
didnt mean to imply you were wrong.

Was just adding some further details.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: KG Living Legend on March 10, 2017, 09:50:42 PM

 So now the three WR lineup is

 Cooks
 Edelman
 Hogan

 Gronkowski and James White

 Or Cooks and Edelman with Gronkowski and Allen plus a RB. Unreal weapons for Brady.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 11, 2017, 11:39:19 AM
Patriots don't have any 1st or 2nd round picks anymore...

I hope they don't trade Malcolm Butler or Jimmy G.

But something has to give. How are they going to get picks there? Or are they content with no 1st/2nd rounders?
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: BitterJim on March 11, 2017, 11:52:58 AM
Patriots don't have any 1st or 2nd round picks anymore...

I hope they don't trade Malcolm Butler or Jimmy G.

But something has to give. How are they going to get picks there? Or are they content with no 1st/2nd rounders?

If Bill wanted firsts, he wouldn't have traded one for Cooks.  He's never been big on having early picks
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 11, 2017, 11:54:30 AM
Patriots don't have any 1st or 2nd round picks anymore...

I hope they don't trade Malcolm Butler or Jimmy G.

But something has to give. How are they going to get picks there? Or are they content with no 1st/2nd rounders?

They still have two 3rd rounders, a 4th rounder, two 5th rounders, a 6th, & a 7th.   Barring a JG or Butler trade, they could still do some packaging of picks to trade up (more likely into 2nd than 1st).  They could also play with next year's draft capital if need be. 
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 11, 2017, 11:57:35 AM
Patriots don't have any 1st or 2nd round picks anymore...

I hope they don't trade Malcolm Butler or Jimmy G.

But something has to give. How are they going to get picks there? Or are they content with no 1st/2nd rounders?

They still have two 3rd rounders, a 4th rounder, two 5th rounders, a 6th, & a 7th.   Barring a JG or Butler trade, they could still do some packaging of picks to trade up (more likely into 2nd than 1st).  They could also play with next year's draft capital if need be.

I kind of think they'll want to move into the 2nd round at least for someone. Maybe package one of their third rounders + extra for it.

Not too worried about 1st round. They don't usually draft there lol (BB typically trades down).
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: BitterJim on March 11, 2017, 11:58:18 AM
Correct me if I'm wrong, but our first four rounds are as follows:

1) Gone
2) We have our pick
3) Jamie Collins compensation pick
4) The 4th rounder we just picked up from NO
5-7) A little of this and a little of that

Mike

We lose the 4th from NO (#118) due to bullEdited.  Profanity and masked profanity are against forum rules and may result in discipline. Deflategate penalties, but we now get to keep Seattle's 4th (#131) which we were previously going to lose
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: CelticSince83 on March 11, 2017, 12:04:46 PM
Patriots don't have any 1st or 2nd round picks anymore...

I hope they don't trade Malcolm Butler or Jimmy G.

But something has to give. How are they going to get picks there? Or are they content with no 1st/2nd rounders?

 
They still have two 3rd rounders, a 4th rounder, two 5th rounders, a 6th, & a 7th.   Barring a JG or Butler trade, they could still do some packaging of picks to trade up (more likely into 2nd than 1st).  They could also play with next year's draft capital if need be.

I kind of think they'll want to move into the 2nd round at least for someone. Maybe package one of their third rounders + extra for it.

Not too worried about 1st round. They don't usually draft there lol (BB typically trades down).

They have made 15 first round picks in the last 16 drafts. 
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Smokeeye123 on March 11, 2017, 12:29:36 PM
Hightower cancelled his meeting with the saints, down to the titans or us.

Got a bad feeling, I think he signs in Tennessee.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 11, 2017, 01:28:36 PM
Hightower cancelled his meeting with the saints, down to the titans or us.

Got a bad feeling, I think he signs in Tennessee.

Apparently TEN aren't confident they can sign him though according to reports.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 11, 2017, 02:27:56 PM
Brady
Cooks
Lewis
Gronkowski
Edelman
Mitchell
Allen
Hogan
solid-good O-line

Brady taking aim at Manning's 55 TD record?

You forgot White!
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on March 11, 2017, 03:21:25 PM
Patriots add DL Lawrence Guy on a 4-year deal worth $20MM.

Don't know anything about the guy, but the trend seems obvious -- the team is looking to get younger everywhere.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Eja117 on March 11, 2017, 03:38:36 PM
Brady
Cooks
Lewis
Gronkowski
Edelman
Mitchell
Allen
Hogan
solid-good O-line

Brady taking aim at Manning's 55 TD record?
Records? Records don't make one great.  Records. Statistics. Awards. Patriots care not about such things.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 11, 2017, 03:41:35 PM
Brady
Cooks
Lewis
Gronkowski
Edelman
Mitchell
Allen
Hogan
solid-good O-line

Brady taking aim at Manning's 55 TD record?
Records? Records don't make one great.  Records. Statistics. Awards. Patriots care not about such things.

They just happen to get a lot of them in the course of all the winning they do. ;D
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on March 11, 2017, 04:47:19 PM
So apparently Bennett's contract is three years, $21 million, $6.3 million signing bonus, $7.2 million guaranteed. Seems very affordable, I wonder why we wouldn't match. The whole situation is very bizarre, given that he refused an extension that would have paid him $7 million per during the season...
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on March 11, 2017, 04:58:27 PM
So apparently Bennett's contract is three years, $21 million, $6.3 million signing bonus, $7.2 million guaranteed. Seems very affordable, I wonder why we wouldn't match. The whole situation is very bizarre, given that he refused an extension that would have paid him $7 million per during the season...

The only thing I can think of is that he just crossed 30, and the theme of this offseason seems to be "getting younger."

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: slightly biased bias fan on March 11, 2017, 05:31:04 PM
Does anyone know if Jimmy G is going to be traded?

It is such a precarious situation for the Pats, you have the GOAT as your QB but who knows how long he has left in him...then you have someone who could be a great replacement but you can't give him any guarantees when the starting spot will be his.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Roy H. on March 11, 2017, 05:55:40 PM
Does anyone know if Jimmy G is going to be traded?

It is such a precarious situation for the Pats, you have the GOAT as your QB but who knows how long he has left in him...then you have someone who could be a great replacement but you can't give him any guarantees when the starting spot will be his.

Is this the last year of his contract?

I think they almost have to trade him, because Brady isn't likely to retire in the next year and it's simply not viable to pay a backup $18 million per year. If Cleveland is really offering the #12 plus other assets, they need to do it.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Neurotic Guy on March 11, 2017, 06:13:40 PM
Does anyone know if Jimmy G is going to be traded?

It is such a precarious situation for the Pats, you have the GOAT as your QB but who knows how long he has left in him...then you have someone who could be a great replacement but you can't give him any guarantees when the starting spot will be his.

Is this the last year of his contract?

I think they almost have to trade him, because Brady isn't likely to retire in the next year and it's simply not viable to pay a backup $18 million per year. If Cleveland is really offering the #12 plus other assets, they need to do it.

I think it's a dilemma, mitigated by the strength of the offer made for JG and also perhaps mitigated (or not) by their opinion of Jacoby Brissett or their belief in who they can pick up as a back-up QB or in the draft. 

I think it's important to consider the implications of the all-in approach they seem to be taking this off-season.   It may be an indicator of preparing for an appropriate "last hurrah" for Brady, but it also seems antithetical to build a team capable of winning it all and then going weak on the very important position of back-up QB.   I don't think BB will want to strengthen receivers, defensive backs, D-line, etc, and then leave the entire team vulnerable to a Brady injury when they have a viable back-up who can easily be retained for another year and then franchised next season to assure not losing him for nothing.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: hpantazo on March 11, 2017, 06:19:03 PM
Does anyone know if Jimmy G is going to be traded?

It is such a precarious situation for the Pats, you have the GOAT as your QB but who knows how long he has left in him...then you have someone who could be a great replacement but you can't give him any guarantees when the starting spot will be his.

Is this the last year of his contract?

I think they almost have to trade him, because Brady isn't likely to retire in the next year and it's simply not viable to pay a backup $18 million per year. If Cleveland is really offering the #12 plus other assets, they need to do it.

I think it's a dilemma, mitigated by the strength of the offer made for JG and also perhaps mitigated (or not) by their opinion of Jacoby Brissett or their belief in who they can pick up as a back-up QB or in the draft. 

I think it's important to consider the implications of the all-in approach they seem to be taking this off-season.   It may be an indicator of preparing for an appropriate "last hurrah" for Brady, but it also seems antithetical to build a team capable of winning it all and then going weak on the very important position of back-up QB.   I don't think BB will want to strengthen receivers, defensive backs, D-line, etc, and then leave the entire team vulnerable to a Brady injury when they have a viable back-up who can easily be retained for another year and then franchised next season to assure not losing him for nothing.

That's my thought as well. They have totally gone all-in for next season, I don't see them leaving themselves without a solid backup QB, so unless they are sure of having one after moving Garopolo, then I don't see them moving him.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: footey on March 11, 2017, 06:23:00 PM
Adam Schecter of ESPN has good connections with Pats front office and says he absolutely will not be traded.

Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: JSD on March 11, 2017, 06:53:01 PM
Any NFL capologists out there? Are the Pats sacrificing long term at all? Seems like BB wants to make another run at 19-0
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: nickagneta on March 11, 2017, 07:07:20 PM
Any NFL capologists out there? Are the Pats sacrificing long term at all? Seems like BB wants to make another run at 19-0
Just a guess, but Belechick probablt thinks he is making a run at 19-0 every year.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Fan from VT on March 11, 2017, 07:12:29 PM
Any NFL capologists out there? Are the Pats sacrificing long term at all? Seems like BB wants to make another run at 19-0


If you are a pats fan, @patscap on twitter is a must follow. He is very good, gets a lot of mike reiss shout outs, etc. Miguel is his name.


Recent tweet:


@Mart_78
As of today, would you say they are in good shape for 2018, cap wise? Or will it be tight with some tough decisions?

@patscap
The champs are currently in great shape for 2018 season. Be surprised if I change my view anytime soon.Cap Space=36,189,288 added,

Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 11, 2017, 07:52:28 PM
The Patriots are set up VERY well for the future.

Even when TB12 retires, they are getting a lot younger.

Also with future extensions and potential restructures, the Pats can easily continue having a lot of cap space.

As of now they have around 35M if I'm not mistaken.

Plus they usually structure contracts so cap hits the first few years aren't that big, so when the player reaches the later part of it they either re-structure or are traded/released, because they may also be reaching a higher age and may be starting to go past their prime.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on March 11, 2017, 07:58:57 PM
So apparently Bennett's contract is three years, $21 million, $6.3 million signing bonus, $7.2 million guaranteed. Seems very affordable, I wonder why we wouldn't match. The whole situation is very bizarre, given that he refused an extension that would have paid him $7 million per during the season...

The only thing I can think of is that he just crossed 30, and the theme of this offseason seems to be "getting younger.".
Could be. Also the contract seemed backloaded, which means he'd be occupying a hefty guaranteed cap slot when he's 33.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Redz on March 11, 2017, 08:49:25 PM
Safe to say the Pats have taken the Bills crown of "winning the offseason" this year?  ;D
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: KG Living Legend on March 11, 2017, 09:03:32 PM
So apparently Bennett's contract is three years, $21 million, $6.3 million signing bonus, $7.2 million guaranteed. Seems very affordable, I wonder why we wouldn't match. The whole situation is very bizarre, given that he refused an extension that would have paid him $7 million per during the season...

The only thing I can think of is that he just crossed 30, and the theme of this offseason seems to be "getting younger.".
Could be. Also the contract seemed backloaded, which means he'd be occupying a hefty guaranteed cap slot when he's 33.



 If that's true that Bill offered 7 mil per in the off season, than that's a very fair offer that Bennett declined.

 Typical Patriots. You don't want our solid offer? Fine. Moving on we sign a younger, cheaper possibly better player.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 12, 2017, 12:49:06 PM
Today is Hightower's Birthday.

How about blowing out the B-Day candles and signing that contract extension here HT  ;D
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on March 12, 2017, 01:17:08 PM
So apparently Bennett's contract is three years, $21 million, $6.3 million signing bonus, $7.2 million guaranteed. Seems very affordable, I wonder why we wouldn't match. The whole situation is very bizarre, given that he refused an extension that would have paid him $7 million per during the season...

The only thing I can think of is that he just crossed 30, and the theme of this offseason seems to be "getting younger.".
Could be. Also the contract seemed backloaded, which means he'd be occupying a hefty guaranteed cap slot when he's 33.



 If that's true that Bill offered 7 mil per in the off season, than that's a very fair offer that Bennett declined.

 Typical Patriots. You don't want our solid offer? Fine. Moving on we sign a younger, cheaper possibly better player.
It seems I misread and it was offered before the season started. But in retrospect it still seems like a fair offer.

http://nesn.com/2016/12/martellus-bennett-reportedly-turned-down-7m-patriots-extension-before-season/
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 12, 2017, 02:28:16 PM
Apparently the Jets and Patriots are the leaders for the services of Hightower.

.... The Jets?  :o

They actually seem like a franchise who would give HT "Von Miller Money".

Hopefully it's all a bluff and we keep him though at a good market price.


Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 12, 2017, 02:42:37 PM
Apparently the Jets and Patriots are the leaders for the services of Hightower.

.... The Jets?  :o

They actually seem like a franchise who would give HT "Von Miller Money".

Hopefully it's all a bluff and we keep him though at a good market price.

I was surprised to see the Jets mentioned. I would be disgusted if he went there.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on March 12, 2017, 03:01:24 PM
The Jets worry me because they're just about dumb enough to give him an unreasonably large contract (see Revis, Darelle).
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on March 12, 2017, 03:15:04 PM
The Jets worry me because they're just about dump enough to give him an unreasonably large contract (see Revis, Darelle).
thats my fear as well.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 12, 2017, 09:54:04 PM
Quick Updates:

1. Hightower will meet the Jets tomorrow. He could legitimately make a decision by tomorrow some time. Growing belief though is that he will stay with NE on a deal at 10M/Year (surprisingly lower than Gilmore).

2. Butler's agent is trying to convince teams to pay Butler "Gilmore money" and give up their first round pick to acquire him as well. I honestly kind of just wish the Pats gave him something close to that. He deserves it IMO and it's better to lock up this defense for years to come.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: tarheelsxxiii on March 12, 2017, 10:13:36 PM
Quick Updates:

1. Hightower will meet the Jets tomorrow. He could legitimately make a decision by tomorrow some time. Growing belief though is that he will stay with NE on a deal at 10M/Year (surprisingly lower than Gilmore).

2. Butler's agent is trying to convince teams to pay Butler "Gilmore money" and give up their first round pick to acquire him as well. I honestly kind of just wish the Pats gave him something close to that. He deserves it IMO and it's better to lock up this defense for years to come.

It would suck to lose him.  I can understand him wanting to get paid after the Pats shelled out money to Gilmore, though.  I don't know much about it, but I read that it's not uncommon for a guy to gauge his market value after a tender is placed on him.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Eja117 on March 12, 2017, 11:10:16 PM
If I were Bulter's agent I would tell him to do what Asante Samuel did and hold out until the week before he would lose a year of vesting on his contract/pension. Don't risk injury. Come back in week ten. Become unrestricted free agent. Get paid.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Mean Gerald Green on March 13, 2017, 11:53:27 AM
Supposedly, the Patriots offered Butler 3 years/18-20 million last summer. That breaks down to

2016: 6 million - He made $600,000
2017: 6 million - Tender is 3.91 million
2018: 7 million - He'll be unrestricted, so in order to recoup the money he could have signed for, he'll need to be paid 14.5 million

Derek Simpson, the ambulance chaser lawyer that is his agent, turned it down, maintaining his client should be paid as a top CB on the market. As a result, the Patriots ended negotiation of any extension, having tired of Simpson's antics and refusal to negotiate in good faith.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 13, 2017, 12:21:52 PM
(Mini Rant)   :laugh:

Can we please just pay the man (Butler).

Say what you want about Butler, or his agent, or the "Patriot Way" method in FA.

This dude won us the SB in the final minute two years ago, and for the past two seasons he has actually played like an elite, or at least close to elite CB. Sure, maybe it’s the system, but even if that’s the case, he’s OUR ELITE CB.

If Gilmore is getting 5/65, then how is Butler not even worth around 11-12M/Year??? Hell even HT may end up settling under 13M/Year.

Also: Gilmore/Butler/Rowe >>>> Gilmore/Rowe/(Cyrus OR Coleman)

Rather have that for years to come then have another hole at CB (we also lost Logan Ryan already…)
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Evantime34 on March 13, 2017, 12:30:39 PM
Supposedly, the Patriots offered Butler 3 years/18-20 million last summer. That breaks down to

2016: 6 million - He made $600,000
2017: 6 million - Tender is 3.91 million
2018: 7 million - He'll be unrestricted, so in order to recoup the money he could have signed for, he'll need to be paid 14.5 million

Derek Simpson, the ambulance chaser lawyer that is his agent, turned it down, maintaining his client should be paid as a top CB on the market. As a result, the Patriots ended negotiation of any extension, having tired of Simpson's antics and refusal to negotiate in good faith.
3/18-20 isn't negotiating in good faith for a top 10 CB.

The Pats are playing hardball, because Butler is restricted and they would love to match a contract he signs somewhere else. I'd be shocked if another team signs him to an offer sheet, because they know the Pats are going to match which further increase the Pats leverage.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 13, 2017, 12:34:50 PM
Supposedly, the Patriots offered Butler 3 years/18-20 million last summer. That breaks down to

2016: 6 million - He made $600,000
2017: 6 million - Tender is 3.91 million
2018: 7 million - He'll be unrestricted, so in order to recoup the money he could have signed for, he'll need to be paid 14.5 million

Derek Simpson, the ambulance chaser lawyer that is his agent, turned it down, maintaining his client should be paid as a top CB on the market. As a result, the Patriots ended negotiation of any extension, having tired of Simpson's antics and refusal to negotiate in good faith.
3/18-20 isn't negotiating in good faith for a top 10 CB.

The Pats are playing hardball, because Butler is restricted and they would love to match a contract he signs somewhere else. I'd be shocked if another team signs him to an offer sheet, because they know the Pats are going to match which further increase the Pats leverage.

It depends what the guaranteed money involved was.  I find it hard to believe that those numbers include any signing bonus. 
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: green_bballers13 on March 13, 2017, 12:45:36 PM
Supposedly, the Patriots offered Butler 3 years/18-20 million last summer. That breaks down to

2016: 6 million - He made $600,000
2017: 6 million - Tender is 3.91 million
2018: 7 million - He'll be unrestricted, so in order to recoup the money he could have signed for, he'll need to be paid 14.5 million

Derek Simpson, the ambulance chaser lawyer that is his agent, turned it down, maintaining his client should be paid as a top CB on the market. As a result, the Patriots ended negotiation of any extension, having tired of Simpson's antics and refusal to negotiate in good faith.
3/18-20 isn't negotiating in good faith for a top 10 CB.

The Pats are playing hardball, because Butler is restricted and they would love to match a contract he signs somewhere else. I'd be shocked if another team signs him to an offer sheet, because they know the Pats are going to match which further increase the Pats leverage.

I think Belichick takes stats from a player with a grain of salt. He believes in the system more than individuals. I bet he thinks that Butler has more value on the Patriots than on another team. He did this with Welker and Edelman. In both instances, neither WR was able to secure a lucrative, long term deal with another team. Belichick was right not to pay top of the market for both WRs.

I was at the SB two years ago and love Malcolm Butler, but I think you're crazy if you think that Belichick cannot recreate this magic with another drafted/undrafted player. He has a proven ability to turn average athletes into above average football players.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Mean Gerald Green on March 13, 2017, 12:47:31 PM
Supposedly, the Patriots offered Butler 3 years/18-20 million last summer. That breaks down to

2016: 6 million - He made $600,000
2017: 6 million - Tender is 3.91 million
2018: 7 million - He'll be unrestricted, so in order to recoup the money he could have signed for, he'll need to be paid 14.5 million

Derek Simpson, the ambulance chaser lawyer that is his agent, turned it down, maintaining his client should be paid as a top CB on the market. As a result, the Patriots ended negotiation of any extension, having tired of Simpson's antics and refusal to negotiate in good faith.
3/18-20 isn't negotiating in good faith for a top 10 CB.

The Pats are playing hardball, because Butler is restricted and they would love to match a contract he signs somewhere else. I'd be shocked if another team signs him to an offer sheet, because they know the Pats are going to match which further increase the Pats leverage.

I'd say the good faith part is offering to pay Butler 12 million for last season and this season instead of the 4.5 million he's going to make. It would have given him financial security and the only trade off is becoming an unrestricted FA a season later.

The Patriots were under no obligation to offer him the extra 7.5 mil for the last 2 seasons. Malcolm's agent overplayed his hand and it cost his client.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: green_bballers13 on March 13, 2017, 12:49:24 PM
(Mini Rant)   :laugh:

Can we please just pay the man (Butler).

Say what you want about Butler, or his agent, or the "Patriot Way" method in FA.

This dude won us the SB in the final minute two years ago, and for the past two seasons he has actually played like an elite, or at least close to elite CB. Sure, maybe it’s the system, but even if that’s the case, he’s OUR ELITE CB.

If Gilmore is getting 5/65, then how is Butler not even worth around 11-12M/Year??? Hell even HT may end up settling under 13M/Year.

Also: Gilmore/Butler/Rowe >>>> Gilmore/Rowe/(Cyrus OR Coleman)

Rather have that for years to come then have another hole at CB (we also lost Logan Ryan already…)

In vacuum, Butler is prob worth 15m a year. That being said, there's context. This is not a vacuum.

He is restricted, so the Pats don't need to spend more than they need to. How come Kris Bryant and Mike Trout make far below their market value? This is not a new concept.

Once Butler hits unrestricted FA, he can make as much money as someone wants to pay him. Until then, he is going to have to play under the tender or demand a trade to a team that will pay. In either situation, the Patriots will prob. win 12 games next year and not lose too much sleep. They have lost talented players before and have gone on to win.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Vermont Green on March 13, 2017, 12:56:59 PM
Supposedly, the Patriots offered Butler 3 years/18-20 million last summer. That breaks down to

2016: 6 million - He made $600,000
2017: 6 million - Tender is 3.91 million
2018: 7 million - He'll be unrestricted, so in order to recoup the money he could have signed for, he'll need to be paid 14.5 million

Derek Simpson, the ambulance chaser lawyer that is his agent, turned it down, maintaining his client should be paid as a top CB on the market. As a result, the Patriots ended negotiation of any extension, having tired of Simpson's antics and refusal to negotiate in good faith.
3/18-20 isn't negotiating in good faith for a top 10 CB.

The Pats are playing hardball, because Butler is restricted and they would love to match a contract he signs somewhere else. I'd be shocked if another team signs him to an offer sheet, because they know the Pats are going to match which further increase the Pats leverage.

I think that actually is fair.  The player has the choice of taking playing out his current contract which includes $600,000 for one season and the $3.9 tender to get to UFA and a chance at a really big payoff or accept a significant raise to supercede his current contract and add a year.  That is his choice.  Now he has another choice to take the tender or take something less than top money.

I don't think he can expect to have it both ways; ask the Pats to forfeit the cheap years that are the actual current contract and pay top dollar.  Those are the rules.  He should have taken the 3 year deal that was offered.  He could play that out and still be young enough for a big contract.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on March 13, 2017, 01:25:19 PM
Hightower will meet the Jets tomorrow. He could legitimately make a decision by tomorrow some time. Growing belief though is that he will stay with NE on a deal at 10M/Year (surprisingly lower than Gilmore).
Hightower will now also reportedy meet with the Steelers on Thu, weather allowing.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: jambr380 on March 13, 2017, 01:27:47 PM
Hightower and Butler both stand to make a lot of money in New England or another team. If they choose New England, they may make a little bit less (not extraordinarily), but possibly set themselves up as Hall of Fame type players because of being a part of a winning organization. Leaving now would really jeopardize that opportunity.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 13, 2017, 01:34:45 PM
Hightower and Butler both stand to make a lot of money in New England or another team. If they choose New England, they may make a little bit less (not extraordinarily), but possibly set themselves up as Hall of Fame type players because of being a part of a winning organization. Leaving now would really jeopardize that opportunity.

They could learn a lesson from Deion Branch, who left the Patriots but came back several years later and said he regretted ever leaving.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on March 13, 2017, 07:30:23 PM
Hightower will meet the Jets tomorrow. He could legitimately make a decision by tomorrow some time. Growing belief though is that he will stay with NE on a deal at 10M/Year (surprisingly lower than Gilmore).
Hightower will now also reportedy meet with the Steelers on Thu, weather allowing.

The Steelers with Hightower would be scary.

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 13, 2017, 07:35:21 PM
Hightower will meet the Jets tomorrow. He could legitimately make a decision by tomorrow some time. Growing belief though is that he will stay with NE on a deal at 10M/Year (surprisingly lower than Gilmore).
Hightower will now also reportedy meet with the Steelers on Thu, weather allowing.

The Steelers with Hightower would be scary.

Mike

Not if they keep playing that zone defense against Brady, they won't be.

Brady has 22 TDs & 0 INTs against Tomlin Ds.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 13, 2017, 08:57:23 PM
Hightower and Butler both stand to make a lot of money in New England or another team. If they choose New England, they may make a little bit less (not extraordinarily), but possibly set themselves up as Hall of Fame type players because of being a part of a winning organization. Leaving now would really jeopardize that opportunity.

In general, I agree, but there are many factors at play. I think we should also be careful about not lionizing sports teams too much. This is the entertainment business. The NFL players are, at the end of the day, entertainers doing something that is very hard on their body. Hall of fame is nice and all, but if we are talking about $30M vs. $35M, I'm not going to fault someone for taking an extra $5M.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: jambr380 on March 13, 2017, 09:15:23 PM
Hightower and Butler both stand to make a lot of money in New England or another team. If they choose New England, they may make a little bit less (not extraordinarily), but possibly set themselves up as Hall of Fame type players because of being a part of a winning organization. Leaving now would really jeopardize that opportunity.

In general, I agree, but there are many factors at play. I think we should also be careful about not lionizing sports teams too much. This is the entertainment business. The NFL players are, at the end of the day, entertainers doing something that is very hard on their body. Hall of fame is nice and all, but if we are talking about $30M vs. $35M, I'm not going to fault someone for taking an extra $5M.

Oh, totally, money is huge and an NFL player's career can end at anytime; however, potential legendary status is up for grabs here. These things have a way of working themselves out anyway. If they choose New England, then they are choosing that Patriots way and we will all be happy. If they choose to leave, then we can always rationalize that they were all about the money and not winning.

I definitely hope they stick around for a while, though.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: nickagneta on March 13, 2017, 09:25:12 PM
Hightower and Butler both stand to make a lot of money in New England or another team. If they choose New England, they may make a little bit less (not extraordinarily), but possibly set themselves up as Hall of Fame type players because of being a part of a winning organization. Leaving now would really jeopardize that opportunity.

In general, I agree, but there are many factors at play. I think we should also be careful about not lionizing sports teams too much. This is the entertainment business. The NFL players are, at the end of the day, entertainers doing something that is very hard on their body. Hall of fame is nice and all, but if we are talking about $30M vs. $35M, I'm not going to fault someone for taking an extra $5M.

Oh, totally, money is huge and an NFL player's career can end at anytime; however, potential legendary status is up for grabs here. These things have a way of working themselves out anyway. If they choose New England, then they are choosing that Patriots way and we will all be happy. If they choose to leave, then we can always rationalize that they were all about the money and not winning.

I definitely hope they stick around for a while, though.
Having both won 2 Superbowls already and having iconic plays in them, Butler and Hightower may already have cemented their chances at the HOF so long as the both go on to have stellar careers, no matter where they play. I don't think they have to stay in NE to be considered possible future HOFers. They both need to make decisions that are best for them and their families first and foremost, and if that means leaving NE to get more money elsewhere, I wish them well. I hope they have unreal careers if they don't sign with NE, just so long as they suck when playing the Patriots.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 13, 2017, 10:22:09 PM
This is REALLY dragging out with Hightower.

Is the dude just going on an AFC "rejection" tour  :P
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Smokeeye123 on March 14, 2017, 12:19:07 AM
Hightower will meet the Jets tomorrow. He could legitimately make a decision by tomorrow some time. Growing belief though is that he will stay with NE on a deal at 10M/Year (surprisingly lower than Gilmore).
Hightower will now also reportedy meet with the Steelers on Thu, weather allowing.

The Steelers with Hightower would be scary.

Mike

I doubt it. Big Ben is washed up and their secondary is a mess.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Neurotic Guy on March 14, 2017, 05:48:56 AM
Hightower and Butler both stand to make a lot of money in New England or another team. If they choose New England, they may make a little bit less (not extraordinarily), but possibly set themselves up as Hall of Fame type players because of being a part of a winning organization. Leaving now would really jeopardize that opportunity.

In general, I agree, but there are many factors at play. I think we should also be careful about not lionizing sports teams too much. This is the entertainment business. The NFL players are, at the end of the day, entertainers doing something that is very hard on their body. Hall of fame is nice and all, but if we are talking about $30M vs. $35M, I'm not going to fault someone for taking an extra $5M.

Oh, totally, money is huge and an NFL player's career can end at anytime; however, potential legendary status is up for grabs here. These things have a way of working themselves out anyway. If they choose New England, then they are choosing that Patriots way and we will all be happy. If they choose to leave, then we can always rationalize that they were all about the money and not winning.

I definitely hope they stick around for a while, though.
Having both won 2 Superbowls already and having iconic plays in them, Butler and Hightower may already have cemented their chances at the HOF so long as the both go on to have stellar careers, no matter where they play. I don't think they have to stay in NE to be considered possible future HOFers. They both need to make decisions that are best for them and their families first and foremost, and if that means leaving NE to get more money elsewhere, I wish them well. I hope they have unreal careers if they don't sign with NE, just so long as they suck when playing the Patriots.

Definitely should do what's best for fsmily.  Let's say the contract difference is 10 v. 12M a year and 30 v. 35M guaranteed.   That's a lot of money (the discrepancy) but in neither case does his family go hungry.  There have to be considerations that only he and his family can judge : Do they like their home, their town, their neighbors, their schools? What are the kids' ties to friendships? Do their kids have learning needs that their current schools understand? Are there other family members who rely on Dante? Are the Hightower's involved with local businesses? Does Mrs, H work locally? Is she tied to her work or local friendships? 

It probably isn't always JUST about the money. But unfortunately,  the fact that he's still interviewing, along with the probability that there is likely minimal  (if any) leveraging that can be done to raise the Pats offer, I am guessing that the contributing considerations are leaning to an openness to be persuaded by the money. 
Hope they don't lose him - especially not to the Steelers.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Mean Gerald Green on March 14, 2017, 10:54:05 AM
Hightower and Butler both stand to make a lot of money in New England or another team. If they choose New England, they may make a little bit less (not extraordinarily), but possibly set themselves up as Hall of Fame type players because of being a part of a winning organization. Leaving now would really jeopardize that opportunity.

In general, I agree, but there are many factors at play. I think we should also be careful about not lionizing sports teams too much. This is the entertainment business. The NFL players are, at the end of the day, entertainers doing something that is very hard on their body. Hall of fame is nice and all, but if we are talking about $30M vs. $35M, I'm not going to fault someone for taking an extra $5M.

Oh, totally, money is huge and an NFL player's career can end at anytime; however, potential legendary status is up for grabs here. These things have a way of working themselves out anyway. If they choose New England, then they are choosing that Patriots way and we will all be happy. If they choose to leave, then we can always rationalize that they were all about the money and not winning.

I definitely hope they stick around for a while, though.
Having both won 2 Superbowls already and having iconic plays in them, Butler and Hightower may already have cemented their chances at the HOF so long as the both go on to have stellar careers, no matter where they play. I don't think they have to stay in NE to be considered possible future HOFers. They both need to make decisions that are best for them and their families first and foremost, and if that means leaving NE to get more money elsewhere, I wish them well. I hope they have unreal careers if they don't sign with NE, just so long as they suck when playing the Patriots.

Definitely should do what's best for fsmily.  Let's say the contract difference is 10 v. 12M a year and 30 v. 35M guaranteed.   That's a lot of money (the discrepancy) but in neither case does his family go hungry.  There have to be considerations that only he and his family can judge : Do they like their home, their town, their neighbors, their schools? What are the kids' ties to friendships? Do their kids have learning needs that their current schools understand? Are there other family members who rely on Dante? Are the Hightower's involved with local businesses? Does Mrs, H work locally? Is she tied to her work or local friendships? 

It probably isn't always JUST about the money. But unfortunately,  the fact that he's still interviewing, along with the probability that there is likely minimal  (if any) leveraging that can be done to raise the Pats offer, I am guessing that the contributing considerations are leaning to an openness to be persuaded by the money. 
Hope they don't lose him - especially not to the Steelers.

I'd bet the Pats and Hightower have an agreement where if he receives a larger offer on the open market, they'll have an opportunity match. The main purpose of these visits is to gain a little leverage on Belichick, not to actually change teams.

If you believe the rumors the Patriots offer is around 10mil/yr, maybe the Steelers offer him 12 and Hightower brings that to the Pats and they settle around 11.

Hightower probably told his agent, "I want to stay in Foxboro, so get me every penny you can in the process."

These visits are the only to milk a few million more out of a lackluster market.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 14, 2017, 11:41:35 AM
Jimmy Malcolm Butler is meeting with New Orleans on Thursday.

Thing is early rumors originally said that to acquire Brandin Cooks, Malcolm Butler would have to be involved in the deal. But he didn't, yet reports said both sides may still explore a future Butler trade.

I personally want to KEEP him but this is the Patriots front office we're talking about.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: A Future of Stevens on March 14, 2017, 11:50:12 AM
Jimmy Malcolm Butler is meeting with New Orleans on Thursday.

Thing is early rumors originally said that to acquire Brandin Cooks, Malcolm Butler would have to be involved in the deal. But he didn't, yet reports said both sides may still explore a future Butler trade.

I personally want to KEEP him but this is the Patriots front office we're talking about.

I am with you to be honest. I don't see whats wrong with giving good money to 2 elite CBs who are both well under 30 going forward. If we resigned Hightower, and Butler, a defensive core going forward of Butler, Hightower, Gilmore, and Devin Mccourty sounds amazing to me. Sure we need an edge rusher, but that's doable.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on March 14, 2017, 11:57:36 AM
Jimmy Malcolm Butler is meeting with New Orleans on Thursday.

Thing is early rumors originally said that to acquire Brandin Cooks, Malcolm Butler would have to be involved in the deal. But he didn't, yet reports said both sides may still explore a future Butler trade.

I personally want to KEEP him but this is the Patriots front office we're talking about.

Do we get their first round pick if they sign him, or a compensatory pick at the end of the round?

Thanks,
Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 14, 2017, 12:07:27 PM
Jimmy Malcolm Butler is meeting with New Orleans on Thursday.

Thing is early rumors originally said that to acquire Brandin Cooks, Malcolm Butler would have to be involved in the deal. But he didn't, yet reports said both sides may still explore a future Butler trade.

I personally want to KEEP him but this is the Patriots front office we're talking about.

Do we get their first round pick if they sign him, or a compensatory pick at the end of the round?

Thanks,
Mike

New England would get their first round pick.  There are no compensatory picks awarded in the first two rounds of the NFL draft.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: A Future of Stevens on March 14, 2017, 12:14:36 PM
Jimmy Malcolm Butler is meeting with New Orleans on Thursday.

Thing is early rumors originally said that to acquire Brandin Cooks, Malcolm Butler would have to be involved in the deal. But he didn't, yet reports said both sides may still explore a future Butler trade.

I personally want to KEEP him but this is the Patriots front office we're talking about.

Do we get their first round pick if they sign him, or a compensatory pick at the end of the round?

Thanks,
Mike

New England would get their first round pick.  There are no compensatory picks awarded in the first two rounds of the NFL draft.

So we either match Butler or get the 11th pick in the draft? Awesome lol.

So what happens if a team places the tender on a player, and the team that signs him doesnt own their first round pick? Like hypothetically say the Saints had traded their 2017 ist rounder last year?
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 14, 2017, 12:24:50 PM
Jimmy Malcolm Butler is meeting with New Orleans on Thursday.

Thing is early rumors originally said that to acquire Brandin Cooks, Malcolm Butler would have to be involved in the deal. But he didn't, yet reports said both sides may still explore a future Butler trade.

I personally want to KEEP him but this is the Patriots front office we're talking about.

Do we get their first round pick if they sign him, or a compensatory pick at the end of the round?

Thanks,
Mike

New England would get their first round pick.  There are no compensatory picks awarded in the first two rounds of the NFL draft.

So we either match Butler or get the 11th pick in the draft? Awesome lol.

So what happens if a team places the tender on a player, and the team that signs him doesnt own their first round pick? Like hypothetically say the Saints had traded their 2017 ist rounder last year?

That team can't sign the tender if they don't have a 1st rounder.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 14, 2017, 12:34:14 PM
https://twitter.com/RapSheet/status/841686262746644480?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet

OH SNAP..  :o

This would be a big mistake Pats... come on...
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on March 14, 2017, 12:41:06 PM
If BB figures he only has one more year left, anyway, we send him to NO for their first and third.

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: jambr380 on March 14, 2017, 12:46:45 PM
Jimmy Malcolm Butler is meeting with New Orleans on Thursday.

Thing is early rumors originally said that to acquire Brandin Cooks, Malcolm Butler would have to be involved in the deal. But he didn't, yet reports said both sides may still explore a future Butler trade.

I personally want to KEEP him but this is the Patriots front office we're talking about.

Do we get their first round pick if they sign him, or a compensatory pick at the end of the round?

Thanks,
Mike

New England would get their first round pick.  There are no compensatory picks awarded in the first two rounds of the NFL draft.

This is incredible and a TP for the clarification. I absolutely want to keep Butler, but getting the 11th pick of the draft would be very fair compensation for a player who might not be here beyond this next season. Seems like a win-win no matter how it goes down.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: A Future of Stevens on March 14, 2017, 12:58:59 PM
Jimmy Malcolm Butler is meeting with New Orleans on Thursday.

Thing is early rumors originally said that to acquire Brandin Cooks, Malcolm Butler would have to be involved in the deal. But he didn't, yet reports said both sides may still explore a future Butler trade.

I personally want to KEEP him but this is the Patriots front office we're talking about.

Do we get their first round pick if they sign him, or a compensatory pick at the end of the round?

Thanks,
Mike

New England would get their first round pick.  There are no compensatory picks awarded in the first two rounds of the NFL draft.

So we either match Butler or get the 11th pick in the draft? Awesome lol.

So what happens if a team places the tender on a player, and the team that signs him doesnt own their first round pick? Like hypothetically say the Saints had traded their 2017 ist rounder last year?

That team can't sign the tender if they don't have a 1st rounder.

So if that team didn't have a first rounder, they wouldn't be able to sign Butler? Very interesting.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 14, 2017, 01:50:57 PM
On Butler it could also be a wink and a nod and we trade him for our first rounder back. Not the Saints first rounder.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on March 14, 2017, 01:51:53 PM
On Butler it could also be a wink and a nod and we trade him for our first rounder back. Not the Saints first rounder.
Butler + a 3rd for Cooks + a 4th is not a deal I would be happy with.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Neurotic Guy on March 14, 2017, 03:51:26 PM
I'd hate to lose Butler and Garapolo, but if Pats get #11 for MB and #12 and #33 for JG, it will be a boatload of fun watching BB making deals for more picks.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Mean Gerald Green on March 14, 2017, 06:01:48 PM
On Butler it could also be a wink and a nod and we trade him for our first rounder back. Not the Saints first rounder.
Butler + a 3rd for Cooks + a 4th is not a deal I would be happy with.

Couldn't agree more, especially since that 4th was forfeited. So in reality it's Butler and a 3rd for Cooks.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: tarheelsxxiii on March 14, 2017, 06:36:06 PM
Bill is back at it again.  Never ceases to amaze. 

http://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1254919-patriots-sign-former-bengals-running-back-rex-burkhead (http://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1254919-patriots-sign-former-bengals-running-back-rex-burkhead)

Quote
Burkhead entered free agency after four seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals as a highly underutilized - and thus, underrated - offensive weapon.

His ability both as a runner and as a receiver, either out of the backfield or split out wide, makes him everything the Patriots are looking for in potential playmakers at the position. He's also a well-established contributor on special teams.

Burkhead tallied 344 rushing yards, 145 receiving yards, and two touchdowns across 16 games in 2016.

A 5'10" white dude, former 6th round pick (Brady: 6th; Edelman: 7th), that is "versatilie," "underrated," and has been "underutilized."  Look forward to seeing this guy in the Pro Bowl in 2 years by way of Bill's genius.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Smokeeye123 on March 14, 2017, 06:44:02 PM
I'd hate to lose Butler and Garapolo, but if Pats get #11 for MB and #12 and #33 for JG, it will be a boatload of fun watching BB making deals for more picks.

We would immediately trade those two picks for 17 6th round picks.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: tarheelsxxiii on March 14, 2017, 06:53:54 PM
I'd hate to lose Butler and Garapolo, but if Pats get #11 for MB and #12 and #33 for JG, it will be a boatload of fun watching BB making deals for more picks.

We would immediately trade those two picks for 17 6th round picks.

This is a well-established fact. 
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 14, 2017, 07:14:43 PM
I'd hate to lose Butler and Garapolo, but if Pats get #11 for MB and #12 and #33 for JG, it will be a boatload of fun watching BB making deals for more picks.

The Pats WILL NOT get the #11 pick for MB. It will be the #32 pick, and maybe a late round pick.

But, I could see the #12 and #33 for JG.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 14, 2017, 07:19:18 PM
Bill is back at it again.  Never ceases to amaze. 

http://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1254919-patriots-sign-former-bengals-running-back-rex-burkhead (http://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1254919-patriots-sign-former-bengals-running-back-rex-burkhead)

Quote
Burkhead entered free agency after four seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals as a highly underutilized - and thus, underrated - offensive weapon.

His ability both as a runner and as a receiver, either out of the backfield or split out wide, makes him everything the Patriots are looking for in potential playmakers at the position. He's also a well-established contributor on special teams.

Burkhead tallied 344 rushing yards, 145 receiving yards, and two touchdowns across 16 games in 2016.

A 5'10" white dude, former 6th round pick (Brady: 6th; Edelman: 7th), that is "versatilie," "underrated," and has been "underutilized."  Look forward to seeing this guy in the Pro Bowl in 2 years by way of Bill's genius.

The key here is "special teams."
He will probably be Brandon Bolden's replacement.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Neurotic Guy on March 14, 2017, 07:28:32 PM
I'd hate to lose Butler and Garapolo, but if Pats get #11 for MB and #12 and #33 for JG, it will be a boatload of fun watching BB making deals for more picks.

The Pats WILL NOT get the #11 pick for MB. It will be the #32 pick, and maybe a late round pick.

But, I could see the #12 and #33 for JG.

So you are assuming MB will be a trade rather than a signing.  I guess that makes sense, but do you consider #32 and a 4th/5th rounder fair value for MB?  I'd rather have two top tier corners.  Why won't Bill pay him?
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 14, 2017, 08:35:48 PM
I'd hate to lose Butler and Garapolo, but if Pats get #11 for MB and #12 and #33 for JG, it will be a boatload of fun watching BB making deals for more picks.

The Pats WILL NOT get the #11 pick for MB. It will be the #32 pick, and maybe a late round pick.

But, I could see the #12 and #33 for JG.

So you are assuming MB will be a trade rather than a signing.  I guess that makes sense, but do you consider #32 and a 4th/5th rounder fair value for MB?  I'd rather have two top tier corners.  Why won't Bill pay him?

Because they don't have to yet.  It's restricted free agency and, from most accounts, Butler has already turned down offers made by the Pats.     Since he's turned down offers, he's now playing by the rules of the collective bargaining agreement.  He's not an unrestricted free agent.  He's not there yet.   
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on March 14, 2017, 08:43:51 PM
I'd hate to lose Butler and Garapolo, but if Pats get #11 for MB and #12 and #33 for JG, it will be a boatload of fun watching BB making deals for more picks.

The Pats WILL NOT get the #11 pick for MB. It will be the #32 pick, and maybe a late round pick.

But, I could see the #12 and #33 for JG.

So you are assuming MB will be a trade rather than a signing.  I guess that makes sense, but do you consider #32 and a 4th/5th rounder fair value for MB?  I'd rather have two top tier corners.  Why won't Bill pay him?

I don't see why Bill would accept #32 and a 4/5. If NO signs him in free agency, BB gets #11.

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on March 14, 2017, 08:45:27 PM
Bill is back at it again.  Never ceases to amaze. 

http://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1254919-patriots-sign-former-bengals-running-back-rex-burkhead (http://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1254919-patriots-sign-former-bengals-running-back-rex-burkhead)

Quote
Burkhead entered free agency after four seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals as a highly underutilized - and thus, underrated - offensive weapon.

His ability both as a runner and as a receiver, either out of the backfield or split out wide, makes him everything the Patriots are looking for in potential playmakers at the position. He's also a well-established contributor on special teams.

Burkhead tallied 344 rushing yards, 145 receiving yards, and two touchdowns across 16 games in 2016.

A 5'10" white dude, former 6th round pick (Brady: 6th; Edelman: 7th), that is "versatilie," "underrated," and has been "underutilized."  Look forward to seeing this guy in the Pro Bowl in 2 years by way of Bill's genius.

Funny thing is, that's the type of signing that Ainge would make, also. Underutilized, undersized, versatile.

Of course, if DA did it, we'd rake him over the coals. :D

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on March 14, 2017, 08:53:02 PM
Bill is back at it again.  Never ceases to amaze. 

http://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1254919-patriots-sign-former-bengals-running-back-rex-burkhead (http://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1254919-patriots-sign-former-bengals-running-back-rex-burkhead)

Quote
Burkhead entered free agency after four seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals as a highly underutilized - and thus, underrated - offensive weapon.

His ability both as a runner and as a receiver, either out of the backfield or split out wide, makes him everything the Patriots are looking for in potential playmakers at the position. He's also a well-established contributor on special teams.

Burkhead tallied 344 rushing yards, 145 receiving yards, and two touchdowns across 16 games in 2016.

A 5'10" white dude, former 6th round pick (Brady: 6th; Edelman: 7th), that is "versatilie," "underrated," and has been "underutilized."  Look forward to seeing this guy in the Pro Bowl in 2 years by way of Bill's genius.

Funny thing is, that's the type of signing that Ainge would make, also. Underutilized, undersized, versatile.

Of course, if DA did it, we'd rake him over the coals. :D

Mike
When Ainge wins 5 rings I'm sure he'll get more benefit of the doubt.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on March 14, 2017, 09:01:09 PM
Bill is back at it again.  Never ceases to amaze. 

http://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1254919-patriots-sign-former-bengals-running-back-rex-burkhead (http://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1254919-patriots-sign-former-bengals-running-back-rex-burkhead)

Quote
Burkhead entered free agency after four seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals as a highly underutilized - and thus, underrated - offensive weapon.

His ability both as a runner and as a receiver, either out of the backfield or split out wide, makes him everything the Patriots are looking for in potential playmakers at the position. He's also a well-established contributor on special teams.

Burkhead tallied 344 rushing yards, 145 receiving yards, and two touchdowns across 16 games in 2016.

A 5'10" white dude, former 6th round pick (Brady: 6th; Edelman: 7th), that is "versatilie," "underrated," and has been "underutilized."  Look forward to seeing this guy in the Pro Bowl in 2 years by way of Bill's genius.

Funny thing is, that's the type of signing that Ainge would make, also. Underutilized, undersized, versatile.

Of course, if DA did it, we'd rake him over the coals. :D

Mike
When Ainge wins 5 rings I'm sure he'll get more benefit of the doubt.

[dang] straight. Just struck me as funny.

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 14, 2017, 09:03:22 PM
I'd hate to lose Butler and Garapolo, but if Pats get #11 for MB and #12 and #33 for JG, it will be a boatload of fun watching BB making deals for more picks.

The Pats WILL NOT get the #11 pick for MB. It will be the #32 pick, and maybe a late round pick.

But, I could see the #12 and #33 for JG.

So you are assuming MB will be a trade rather than a signing.  I guess that makes sense, but do you consider #32 and a 4th/5th rounder fair value for MB?  I'd rather have two top tier corners.  Why won't Bill pay him?

I don't see why Bill would accept #32 and a 4/5. If NO signs him in free agency, BB gets #11.

Mike

Because otherwise MB won't sign. He'll be disgruntled, or hold out, or who knows what. The point is, there are three parties that can potentially gain: MB, Pats, Saints. Would the Pats like more? Yes. Would the Pats like to keep MB? I think yes, but probably depends on price. Would the Pats like compensation in some form if they are going to lose a star player? Yes.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 14, 2017, 09:17:40 PM
How much better is Gilmore than Butler?

Don't get me wrong but it seemed Gronk and our WRs torched Gilmore more often than not.

Yet Gilmore gets 5/65M. Butler isn't worth 10+M/Year at the least??

This is ridiculous. Just pay HT and Butler, Pats...

Can't believe it's even a possibility we lose both before next season. Unlikely but still possible.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: tarheelsxxiii on March 14, 2017, 09:20:26 PM
Bill is back at it again.  Never ceases to amaze. 

http://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1254919-patriots-sign-former-bengals-running-back-rex-burkhead (http://www.thescore.com/nfl/news/1254919-patriots-sign-former-bengals-running-back-rex-burkhead)

Quote
Burkhead entered free agency after four seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals as a highly underutilized - and thus, underrated - offensive weapon.

His ability both as a runner and as a receiver, either out of the backfield or split out wide, makes him everything the Patriots are looking for in potential playmakers at the position. He's also a well-established contributor on special teams.

Burkhead tallied 344 rushing yards, 145 receiving yards, and two touchdowns across 16 games in 2016.

A 5'10" white dude, former 6th round pick (Brady: 6th; Edelman: 7th), that is "versatilie," "underrated," and has been "underutilized."  Look forward to seeing this guy in the Pro Bowl in 2 years by way of Bill's genius.

Funny thing is, that's the type of signing that Ainge would make, also. Underutilized, undersized, versatile.

Of course, if DA did it, we'd rake him over the coals. :D

Mike
When Ainge wins 5 rings I'm sure he'll get more benefit of the doubt.

Point taken.  Bill's track record with these moves just never ceases to amaze me.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 14, 2017, 09:39:03 PM
How much better is Gilmore than Butler?

Don't get me wrong but it seemed Gronk and our WRs torched Gilmore more often than not.

Yet Gilmore gets 5/65M. Butler isn't worth 10+M/Year at the least??

This is ridiculous. Just pay HT and Butler, Pats...

Can't believe it's even a possibility we lose both before next season. Unlikely but still possible.

I totally agree with you, especially given how much $$$ the Pats have available, and given that there is about 2 more years of Brady left (my guess). I'd go all in, if I was Pats/BB.

Instead, I think it is very likely that the Pats lose MB, and about 50-50 that the Pats lose Hightower.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: A Future of Stevens on March 15, 2017, 09:43:58 AM
We are expected to resign Hightower. WOO WOOOOOOOO

http://nesn.com/2017/03/nfl-rumors-donta-hightower-expected-to-re-sign-with-patriots-make-decision-wednesday/
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on March 15, 2017, 09:46:55 AM
How much better is Gilmore than Butler?

Don't get me wrong but it seemed Gronk and our WRs torched Gilmore more often than not.

Yet Gilmore gets 5/65M. Butler isn't worth 10+M/Year at the least??

This is ridiculous. Just pay HT and Butler, Pats...

Can't believe it's even a possibility we lose both before next season. Unlikely but still possible.

I totally agree with you, especially given how much $$$ the Pats have available, and given that there is about 2 more years of Brady left (my guess). I'd go all in, if I was Pats/BB.

Instead, I think it is very likely that the Pats lose MB, and about 50-50 that the Pats lose Hightower.
seems pessimistic to me. good chance both come back imo
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 15, 2017, 09:50:06 AM
How much better is Gilmore than Butler?

Don't get me wrong but it seemed Gronk and our WRs torched Gilmore more often than not.

Yet Gilmore gets 5/65M. Butler isn't worth 10+M/Year at the least??

This is ridiculous. Just pay HT and Butler, Pats...

Can't believe it's even a possibility we lose both before next season. Unlikely but still possible.

I totally agree with you, especially given how much $$$ the Pats have available, and given that there is about 2 more years of Brady left (my guess). I'd go all in, if I was Pats/BB.

Instead, I think it is very likely that the Pats lose MB, and about 50-50 that the Pats lose Hightower.
seems pessimistic to me. good chance both come back imo

I could see the Pats getting one more year out of Butler in a "Samuel in '07" kind of way but think he's  gone after the '17 season.

However, given the buddy/buddy relationship btw Payton & Belichick, a trade certainly isn't out of the question.  Pats aren't getting that 11th pick, though.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: jambr380 on March 15, 2017, 10:06:57 AM
I could see the Pats getting one more year out of Butler in a "Samuel in '07" kind of way but think he's  gone after the '17 season.

However, given the buddy/buddy relationship btw Payton & Belichick, a trade certainly isn't out of the question.  Pats aren't getting that 11th pick, though.

I don't know why the Pats would make a trade for the 32nd (or another pick) if the Saints have no leverage here, though.  Other than supposed 'good faith' negotiating, it makes no sense not to let Butler sign the offer sheet and either match or take the 11th pick - seems pretty straight forward from BB's point of view. Either option, the Pats make out. Simply trading him for 32 would kind of suck on all accounts.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 15, 2017, 10:18:07 AM
I could see the Pats getting one more year out of Butler in a "Samuel in '07" kind of way but think he's  gone after the '17 season.

However, given the buddy/buddy relationship btw Payton & Belichick, a trade certainly isn't out of the question.  Pats aren't getting that 11th pick, though.

I don't know why the Pats would make a trade for the 32nd (or another pick) if the Saints have no leverage here, though.  Other than supposed 'good faith' negotiating, it makes no sense not to let Butler sign the offer sheet and either match or take the 11th pick - seems pretty straight forward from BB's point of view. Either option, the Pats make out. Simply trading him for 32 would kind of suck on all accounts.

Saints leverage is that they simply walk away.  They don't have to sign Butler to a tender.  They can wait a year and get him in unrestricted free agency if they want.   Saints/Pats have had a close organizational bond over the years.  My gut tells me that some sort of compromise is reached (see Welker in '07) rather than this thing going the true RFA route with #11 going to New England.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: MJohnnyboy on March 15, 2017, 01:34:01 PM
Hightower's coming back per Schefter.

Imagine if Butler comes back too.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 15, 2017, 01:36:03 PM
Hightower's coming back per Schefter.

Imagine if Butler comes back too.

It'll be interesting to see the contract terms on Hightower.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 15, 2017, 01:38:55 PM
Quote
Albert Breer‏Verified account @AlbertBreer  18s18 seconds ago
More
 Patriots LB Dont'a Hightower's deal, per @_SportsTrust: Four years, $43.5 million with $19 million guaranteed.

Pretty reasonable.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: KG Living Legend on March 15, 2017, 01:40:56 PM
Quote
Albert Breer‏Verified account @AlbertBreer  18s18 seconds ago
More
 Patriots LB Dont'a Hightower's deal, per @_SportsTrust: Four years, $43.5 million with $19 million guaranteed.

Pretty reasonable.



 He's set for life if he's smart.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: MJohnnyboy on March 15, 2017, 01:41:37 PM
Quote
Albert Breer‏Verified account @AlbertBreer  18s18 seconds ago
More
 Patriots LB Dont'a Hightower's deal, per @_SportsTrust: Four years, $43.5 million with $19 million guaranteed.

Pretty reasonable.

That's a contract that tells me that Hightower was really set on coming back but wanted the Pats to up the price.

Bill didn't budge.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 15, 2017, 01:42:20 PM
Hightower's coming back per Schefter.

Awesome!

Imagine if Butler comes back too.

This would be fantastic. Throw in the continued development of Trey Flowers and Malcom Brown and Elandon Roberts, the addition of Kony Ealy and Lawrence Guy, and a full season of Kyle Van Noy—not to mention a potential impact player from the draft—and the defense could be SO good next season.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 15, 2017, 02:11:54 PM
HT got paid less than Chandler Jones and Jamie Collins...

Yet again, BB playing chess while everyone else playing checkers.

Now it's probably unlikely, but imagine if they get Zach Brown?  8)

I still think they need a two-down running back (Blount re-sign?) because Burkhead holds more Special Teams value IMO and is not a reliable two-down back it seems (he can play that part but probably not consistently).

Then reinforce pass rush, and maybe CB depending on what happens with Butler at the draft.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Roy H. on March 15, 2017, 02:12:26 PM
Quote
Albert Breer‏Verified account @AlbertBreer  18s18 seconds ago
More
 Patriots LB Dont'a Hightower's deal, per @_SportsTrust: Four years, $43.5 million with $19 million guaranteed.

Pretty reasonable.

Extremely. I'll be surprised if the Jets didn't offer more than that.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 15, 2017, 02:17:05 PM
Quote
Albert Breer‏Verified account @AlbertBreer  18s18 seconds ago
More
 Patriots LB Dont'a Hightower's deal, per @_SportsTrust: Four years, $43.5 million with $19 million guaranteed.

Pretty reasonable.

Extremely. I'll be surprised if the Jets didn't offer more than that.

They reportedly offered 12M/Year. Idk how many years though.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 15, 2017, 02:24:15 PM
Quote
Albert Breer‏Verified account @AlbertBreer  18s18 seconds ago
More
 Patriots LB Dont'a Hightower's deal, per @_SportsTrust: Four years, $43.5 million with $19 million guaranteed.

Pretty reasonable.

Extremely. I'll be surprised if the Jets didn't offer more than that.

They reportedly offered 12M/Year. Idk how many years though.

Quote
Jason La Canfora‏Verified account @JasonLaCanfora  9s10 seconds ago
More
 Jets at one point had a long-term deal to Hightower worth $11M/yr w/$22M guaranteed but pulled it this week after he left NY w/o a deal
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 15, 2017, 02:35:04 PM
Quote
Albert Breer‏Verified account @AlbertBreer  18s18 seconds ago
More
 Patriots LB Dont'a Hightower's deal, per @_SportsTrust: Four years, $43.5 million with $19 million guaranteed.

Pretty reasonable.

Extremely. I'll be surprised if the Jets didn't offer more than that.

They reportedly offered 12M/Year. Idk how many years though.

Quote
Jason La Canfora‏Verified account @JasonLaCanfora  9s10 seconds ago
More
 Jets at one point had a long-term deal to Hightower worth $11M/yr w/$22M guaranteed but pulled it this week after he left NY w/o a deal

TP. Thanks for that.

Yeah it is pretty much the NE deal with 3M less in guarantees.

He chose NE over NYJ in that case (aka winning).
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: footey on March 15, 2017, 02:54:16 PM
HT got paid less than Chandler Jones and Jamie Collins...

Yet again, BB playing chess while everyone else playing checkers.

Now it's probably unlikely, but imagine if they get Zach Brown?  8)

I still think they need a two-down running back (Blount re-sign?) because Burkhead holds more Special Teams value IMO and is not a reliable two-down back it seems (he can play that part but probably not consistently).

Then reinforce pass rush, and maybe CB depending on what happens with Butler at the draft.

Based on his guaranteed $$, the Pats project him to be more than a special teams player.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 15, 2017, 03:00:18 PM
Pats had about $31 million in cap space before the Hightower signing.  So they should have plenty leftover to play with along with giving themselves the usual wiggle room they usually carry throughout the season. 

Butler or no Butler.  Pretty solid off-season. 
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 15, 2017, 03:15:43 PM
HT got paid less than Chandler Jones and Jamie Collins...

Yet again, BB playing chess while everyone else playing checkers.

Now it's probably unlikely, but imagine if they get Zach Brown?  8)

I still think they need a two-down running back (Blount re-sign?) because Burkhead holds more Special Teams value IMO and is not a reliable two-down back it seems (he can play that part but probably not consistently).

Then reinforce pass rush, and maybe CB depending on what happens with Butler at the draft.

Based on his guaranteed $$, the Pats project him to be more than a special teams player.

Yeah, his guaranteed money is nearly 3 times what Blount got this past season. NE could have a seriously scary 3-headed backfield monster with Lewis, White, and Burkhead.

Pats had about $31 million in cap space before the Hightower signing.  So they should have plenty leftover to play with along with giving themselves the usual wiggle room they usually carry throughout the season. 

Butler or no Butler.  Pretty solid off-season. 

I agree.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 16, 2017, 02:27:18 PM
According to Rapoport.. Saints and Butler gaining momentum towards a contract.

Despite all the moves, losing Butler would leave a sour taste in my mouth.

Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: KG Living Legend on March 16, 2017, 03:10:30 PM
According to Rapoport.. Saints and Butler gaining momentum towards a contract.

Despite all the moves, losing Butler would leave a sour taste in my mouth.



 If we do lose Butler we need a #2 corner still. Revis did just say he'd play for the minimum because the Jets have to pay 6 million to him.

 He's lost a couple steps but Bill should think about it.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 16, 2017, 04:34:25 PM
According to Rapoport.. Saints and Butler gaining momentum towards a contract.

Despite all the moves, losing Butler would leave a sour taste in my mouth.

Agreed about the sour taste. I hope we keep Butler. Would love to see him and Gilmore in the backfield, and I think Rowe is solid as #3.

Basically, with a Butler re-signing the Pats could go into the draft and just select BPA and not have to worry about any specific position (though maybe some competition at Kicker would be good).
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 16, 2017, 04:38:39 PM
Acc to PMT, Butler is gone for #32pick.


Pardon My Take‏ Verified account @PardonMyTake  2h2 hours ago
More
 BREAKING: Sources are telling PMT that NE's Malcolm Butler will be traded to the Saints in exchange for the 32nd overall pick #MustCreditPMT
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 16, 2017, 04:45:03 PM
Acc to PMT, Butler is gone for #32pick.


Pardon My Take‏ Verified account @PardonMyTake  2h2 hours ago
More
 BREAKING: Sources are telling PMT that NE's Malcolm Butler will be traded to the Saints in exchange for the 32nd overall pick #MustCreditPMT

Pardon My Take is breaking news now, huh?
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: smokeablount on March 16, 2017, 04:57:34 PM
I can't argue with BB, but I saw Gilmore get shredded by Brady and Fitzpatrick last year.  It's hard to believe the team thinks Gilmore is better, though he did play in a man to man Ryan defense, and I believe it was usually Logan Ryan who matched up with other teams top WRs, even though Butler was our #1 corner.  It seems like we have the money to afford a fair deal for Butler and it doesn't seem like we would be able to get a particularly capable replacement for him. 
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Evantime34 on March 16, 2017, 05:05:26 PM
Acc to PMT, Butler is gone for #32pick.


Pardon My Take‏ Verified account @PardonMyTake  2h2 hours ago
More
 BREAKING: Sources are telling PMT that NE's Malcolm Butler will be traded to the Saints in exchange for the 32nd overall pick #MustCreditPMT
I'm not sure about the source, but I think I'd rather force the Saints to sign Butler to an offer sheet so we got their draft pick.

Honestly, I'd like the Pats to get more than just the 32nd pick, but maybe I'm being greedy.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: jambr380 on March 16, 2017, 05:12:31 PM
Acc to PMT, Butler is gone for #32pick.


Pardon My Take‏ Verified account @PardonMyTake  2h2 hours ago
More
 BREAKING: Sources are telling PMT that NE's Malcolm Butler will be traded to the Saints in exchange for the 32nd overall pick #MustCreditPMT
I'm not sure about the source, but I think I'd rather force the Saints to sign Butler to an offer sheet so we got their draft pick.

Honestly, I'd like the Pats to get more than just the 32nd pick, but maybe I'm being greedy.


Yeah, if this is true, then it is the worst of both worlds - not only do we lose Butler, but we get a slim return for him. I don't care if BB and Payton are 'friends' - this is a business and you can't lose your #1 CB (who you don't have to lose) for anything less than the Saints pick.

It's not often we see BB get taken over a barrel - I sure hope the source is wrong!
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 17, 2017, 08:49:08 AM
So apparently the Seahawks are hearing offers on Richard Sherman.

No, New England won't trade for him. But it's still some pretty interesting non-Patriots news.

I doubt he leaves SEA but have to wonder what SEA is thinking here just "listening to offers"
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Roy H. on March 17, 2017, 09:12:45 AM
So apparently the Seahawks are hearing offers on Richard Sherman.

No, New England won't trade for him. But it's still some pretty interesting non-Patriots news.

I doubt he leaves SEA but have to wonder what SEA is thinking here just "listening to offers"

Apparently the Raiders want him, and Lynch might want to return to his hometown.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 17, 2017, 09:13:57 AM
So apparently the Seahawks are hearing offers on Richard Sherman.

No, New England won't trade for him. But it's still some pretty interesting non-Patriots news.

I doubt he leaves SEA but have to wonder what SEA is thinking here just "listening to offers"

Apparently the Raiders want him, and Lynch might want to return to his hometown.

OAK is already our biggest AFC threat IMO.

If they make those moves then oh boy...
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: smokeablount on March 17, 2017, 10:53:42 AM
So apparently the Seahawks are hearing offers on Richard Sherman.

No, New England won't trade for him. But it's still some pretty interesting non-Patriots news.

I doubt he leaves SEA but have to wonder what SEA is thinking here just "listening to offers"

Apparently the Raiders want him, and Lynch might want to return to his hometown.

OAK is already our biggest AFC threat IMO.

If they make those moves then oh boy...

Hopefully they'd have to give up a star and not a draft pick if they get Sherman so they at least get weaker somewhere else as a cost of upgrading the secondary.  And here I was thinking the AFC looked as wide open for us to repeat as AFC champs as it ever has...
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: TheTruthFot18 on March 17, 2017, 11:37:19 AM
So apparently the Seahawks are hearing offers on Richard Sherman.

No, New England won't trade for him. But it's still some pretty interesting non-Patriots news.

I doubt he leaves SEA but have to wonder what SEA is thinking here just "listening to offers"

Apparently the Raiders want him, and Lynch might want to return to his hometown.

OAK is already our biggest AFC threat IMO.

If they make those moves then oh boy...

Hopefully they'd have to give up a star and not a draft pick if they get Sherman so they at least get weaker somewhere else as a cost of upgrading the secondary.  And here I was thinking the AFC looked as wide open for us to repeat as AFC champs as it ever has...

Even if they acquired both those guys, it'd have to be through a trade. Just found out that Lynch is still under contract. Don't think the Raiders can offer that much that Seattle actually wants.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 17, 2017, 12:22:00 PM
Acc to PMT, Butler is gone for #32pick.


Pardon My Take‏ Verified account @PardonMyTake  2h2 hours ago
More
 BREAKING: Sources are telling PMT that NE's Malcolm Butler will be traded to the Saints in exchange for the 32nd overall pick #MustCreditPMT
I'm not sure about the source, but I think I'd rather force the Saints to sign Butler to an offer sheet so we got their draft pick.

Honestly, I'd like the Pats to get more than just the 32nd pick, but maybe I'm being greedy.


Yeah, if this is true, then it is the worst of both worlds - not only do we lose Butler, but we get a slim return for him. I don't care if BB and Payton are 'friends' - this is a business and you can't lose your #1 CB (who you don't have to lose) for anything less than the Saints pick.

It's not often we see BB get taken over a barrel - I sure hope the source is wrong!

The reality is that if Butler doesn't want to play here, or BB doesn't want Butler (whatever the reason), then you take what you can get. You hope it is the #32 pick back.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: jambr380 on March 17, 2017, 01:13:50 PM
If Butler doesn't want to play here, then let him sign elsewhere and collect that team's first round pick; it is really that easy. If no team will sign him, then he will have to play for us this year at a discounted price in a win-now situation for the Pats.

Simply trading him for the worst 1st round pick there is doesn't make any sense when you don't have to do that. I don't know too many Pats fans who would be bummed to have Butler back on a long-term deal so it's not like his services are undesired in NE. Bill has all of the leverage here.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: green_bballers13 on March 17, 2017, 01:19:30 PM
I would love to see Marshawn back. One of my favorite players on/off the field. Oakland has a nice core built with playmakers on both sides of the ball. It took em 15 years to rebuild but they're back. Hopefully they keep Carr upright.

Patriots might go 16-0 again this year. I'm curious to see how the Butler drama ends. My guess: a first or a couple of 2nd round picks for the Pats. I don't want them to trade him to anyone remotely good- I'm fine with New Orleans.

I'd love to see Butler here but understand why he would have a big chip on his shoulder. Gilmore, a guy who while older, has been less impactful as a result of the botched Rex Ryan attempt of having a decent team.

I could see Butler being less critical of the Pats if they signed someone at another position. At the same time, its best for both parties if he accepts the tender, plays out the year, then hits FA and helps to set the new CB market. I think it all relies on Butler being able to "take it on the chin" this year and play like a pro. Nothing tells me he can't do that.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: A Future of Stevens on March 17, 2017, 01:24:03 PM
I would love to see Marshawn back. One of my favorite players on/off the field. Oakland has a nice core built with playmakers on both sides of the ball. It took em 15 years to rebuild but they're back. Hopefully they keep Carr upright.

Patriots might go 16-0 again this year. I'm curious to see how the Butler drama ends. My guess: a first or a couple of 2nd round picks for the Pats. I don't want them to trade him to anyone remotely good- I'm fine with New Orleans.

I'd love to see Butler here but understand why he would have a big chip on his shoulder. Gilmore, a guy who while older, has been less impactful as a result of the botched Rex Ryan attempt of having a decent team.

I could see Butler being less critical of the Pats if they signed someone at another position. At the same time, its best for both parties if he accepts the tender, plays out the year, then hits FA and helps to set the new CB market. I think it all relies on Butler being able to "take it on the chin" this year and play like a pro. Nothing tells me he can't do that.

Just an FYI, but Gilmore is a year younger than Butler. (Well half a year)
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on March 17, 2017, 01:30:20 PM
If Butler is worried about anything else but his own play, he'll have a hard time sticking with the Patriots. Just saying.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 17, 2017, 02:17:03 PM
If Butler doesn't want to play here, then let him sign elsewhere and collect that team's first round pick; it is really that easy. If no team will sign him, then he will have to play for us this year at a discounted price in a win-now situation for the Pats.

Simply trading him for the worst 1st round pick there is doesn't make any sense when you don't have to do that. I don't know too many Pats fans who would be bummed to have Butler back on a long-term deal so it's not like his services are undesired in NE. Bill has all of the leverage here.

Agreed. But Pats don't want a locker room issue (reportedly part of the reason they traded Jamie Collins part way through season). They would rather trade him for a 1st round pick now, rather than keep him a year, risk locker room issues, have him leave in FA next offseason and then maybe receive a 3rd round pick a year after that.

Don't get me wrong, I hope the way this plays out is that Butler is back on the Pats, on a slightly discounted deal that seems "fair" to him after he's been wined and dined by the Saints, and there is a happy marriage and productive career for him here in NE for the next 5 years.

But, reading the tea leaves, he is gone, and most likely outcome will be that the Pats get their own #32 pick back. Again, I don't prefer this outcome, but it is looking more likely than not.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 17, 2017, 08:00:35 PM
I don't want to trade Garoppolo.

But JUST FOR FUN, what would you guys want back in a trade involving him from the Browns?

For me, something like #12, #33, 2017 6th rounder and that 2018 2nd rounder would be nice.

I would send the Browns JG10 + maybe a 2017 5th rounder.

What do you guys think?
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Roy H. on March 17, 2017, 08:07:30 PM
I don't want to trade Garoppolo.

But JUST FOR FUN, what would you guys want back in a trade involving him from the Browns?

For me, something like #12, #33, 2017 6th rounder and that 2018 2nd rounder would be nice.

I would send the Browns JG10 + maybe a 2017 5th rounder.

What do you guys think?

For a guy who will want $20 million to be a backup, I think you do that trade in a heartbeat.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 17, 2017, 08:17:41 PM
I don't want to trade Garoppolo.

But JUST FOR FUN, what would you guys want back in a trade involving him from the Browns?

For me, something like #12, #33, 2017 6th rounder and that 2018 2nd rounder would be nice.

I would send the Browns JG10 + maybe a 2017 5th rounder.

What do you guys think?

For a guy who will want $20 million to be a backup, I think you do that trade in a heartbeat.

CBS Sports Site did a "mock draft/trade" and they proposed #12, BOTH Cleveland 2017 2nd rounders, and a 2018 2nd rounder for JUST Garoppolo. If that happened then it's hard to be disappointed honestly.

I think if the Pats extend JG10 it could be something like 5/75M with lesser in guarantees and more in incentives. Basically first few years with lower cap hits but then higher salaries in the later years also as TB12 calls it quits.

If they don't trade him now then there's no way Coach BB lets him walk for absolutely nothing after NEXT season.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Cman on March 17, 2017, 08:30:46 PM
I don't want to trade Garoppolo.

But JUST FOR FUN, what would you guys want back in a trade involving him from the Browns?

For me, something like #12, #33, 2017 6th rounder and that 2018 2nd rounder would be nice.

I would send the Browns JG10 + maybe a 2017 5th rounder.

What do you guys think?

For a guy who will want $20 million to be a backup, I think you do that trade in a heartbeat.

CBS Sports Site did a "mock draft/trade" and they proposed #12, BOTH Cleveland 2017 2nd rounders, and a 2018 2nd rounder for JUST Garoppolo. If that happened then it's hard to be disappointed honestly.

I think if the Pats extend JG10 it could be something like 5/75M with lesser in guarantees and more in incentives. Basically first few years with lower cap hits but then higher salaries in the later years also as TB12 calls it quits.

If they don't trade him now then there's no way Coach BB lets him walk for absolutely nothing after NEXT season.
No, they would franchise tag him and then trade him to the highest bidder. It would probably not be as good of a haul for the Pats, and would tie up their cap space during FA. OTOH, it would be nice to have him here as backup for Brady this upcoming season. It only takes one overly aggressive DE to ruin a QBs season....
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 17, 2017, 08:41:35 PM
I don't want to trade Garoppolo.

But JUST FOR FUN, what would you guys want back in a trade involving him from the Browns?

For me, something like #12, #33, 2017 6th rounder and that 2018 2nd rounder would be nice.

I would send the Browns JG10 + maybe a 2017 5th rounder.

What do you guys think?

For a guy who will want $20 million to be a backup, I think you do that trade in a heartbeat.

CBS Sports Site did a "mock draft/trade" and they proposed #12, BOTH Cleveland 2017 2nd rounders, and a 2018 2nd rounder for JUST Garoppolo. If that happened then it's hard to be disappointed honestly.

I think if the Pats extend JG10 it could be something like 5/75M with lesser in guarantees and more in incentives. Basically first few years with lower cap hits but then higher salaries in the later years also as TB12 calls it quits.

If they don't trade him now then there's no way Coach BB lets him walk for absolutely nothing after NEXT season.
No, they would franchise tag him and then trade him to the highest bidder. It would probably not be as good of a haul for the Pats, and would tie up their cap space during FA. OTOH, it would be nice to have him here as backup for Brady this upcoming season. It only takes one overly aggressive DE to ruin a QBs season....

Yep. Would be a great back up in case, god forbid, TB12 goes down.

I think the Pats are going absolutely all-in for the next two seasons in the quest for #6.

But it's nice because they also have a ton of youth on this roster as well. Good balance.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 18, 2017, 11:49:42 AM
Guys... I just realized. If the Pats do lose Blount this off season...

Then who is coming to all the Celtics home playoff games??  :o

(Besides maybe Gronk and Belichick 1 or 2 games)
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 18, 2017, 02:23:53 PM
Patriots might go 16-0 again this year.

I hope they don't. Not that I ever truly want them to lose, but there's something about losing a couple of games that hones a team's focus and spurs them to work harder on improving. Plus, I think the "quest for perfection" back in '07 took a huge toll on the team and, as we all saw, eventually caught up with them.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: hpantazo on March 18, 2017, 02:39:42 PM
Patriots might go 16-0 again this year.

I hope they don't. Not that I ever truly want them to lose, but there's something about losing a couple of games that hones a team's focus and spurs them to work harder on improving. Plus, I think the "quest for perfection" back in '07 took a huge toll on the team and, as we all saw, eventually caught up with them.

True. On the other hand, it would be an incredible way for Brady to end his career.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 21, 2017, 08:58:57 PM
Would be nice to know if we have Malcolm Butler next season or not...  ::)

I hope we do but this is going to drag out.

Pats will have a need at CB if Butler is gone and that potential #11 pick won't solve that hole next season at least (unless he's a pure stud in his rookie year)
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 23, 2017, 01:57:55 PM
https://twitter.com/JasonLaCanfora/status/844958332918136833?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet

League execs convinced Revis will go to NE.

Obviously nothing guaranteed, but it seems like a legit consideration now from NE.

Even though things have slowed, I wouldn't say NE's offseason is over yet lol.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: jambr380 on March 23, 2017, 02:47:19 PM
TP for the update Phantom!

I would be absolutely ecstatic if Revis came back to the Pats. We all know how well we did his one year he was here. He has probably lost a step, but it would be great to have him with or without Butler.

As for Butler, what is going on?? There was this tweet a couple of days ago from Mike Giardi:

Quote
Malcolm Butler, Saints have the framework for a deal in place, per @MikeGiardi http://ble.ac/2n6QJcn

Are the Saints still trying to work out a deal where they only give up the #32 while BB is telling them to go ahead and sign him (giving us #12)? That is the only thing that makes sense at this point. And with Revis reportedly on his was to NE, the writing seems to be more than on the wall.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 23, 2017, 05:11:20 PM
TP for the update Phantom!

I would be absolutely ecstatic if Revis came back to the Pats. We all know how well we did his one year he was here. He has probably lost a step, but it would be great to have him with or without Butler.

As for Butler, what is going on?? There was this tweet a couple of days ago from Mike Giardi:

Quote
Malcolm Butler, Saints have the framework for a deal in place, per @MikeGiardi http://ble.ac/2n6QJcn

Are the Saints still trying to work out a deal where they only give up the #32 while BB is telling them to go ahead and sign him (giving us #12)? That is the only thing that makes sense at this point. And with Revis reportedly on his was to NE, the writing seems to be more than on the wall.

Getting Revis back would be interesting. I've heard he's lost a step; I can't say, because I didn't watch him at all this season, but his stats look decent (tackles, etc.)—not many INTs, but that could be at least partly due to his reputation.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on March 23, 2017, 05:24:31 PM
TP for the update Phantom!

I would be absolutely ecstatic if Revis came back to the Pats. We all know how well we did his one year he was here. He has probably lost a step, but it would be great to have him with or without Butler.

As for Butler, what is going on?? There was this tweet a couple of days ago from Mike Giardi:

Quote
Malcolm Butler, Saints have the framework for a deal in place, per @MikeGiardi http://ble.ac/2n6QJcn

Are the Saints still trying to work out a deal where they only give up the #32 while BB is telling them to go ahead and sign him (giving us #12)? That is the only thing that makes sense at this point. And with Revis reportedly on his was to NE, the writing seems to be more than on the wall.

Getting Revis back would be interesting. I've heard he's lost a step; I can't say, because I didn't watch him at all this season, but his stats look decent (tackles, etc.)—not many INTs, but that could be at least partly due to his reputation.

His coverage & tackling were rather pathetic.  Poor effort at times & definitely was taking plays off. 
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 23, 2017, 05:39:47 PM
TP for the update Phantom!

I would be absolutely ecstatic if Revis came back to the Pats. We all know how well we did his one year he was here. He has probably lost a step, but it would be great to have him with or without Butler.

As for Butler, what is going on?? There was this tweet a couple of days ago from Mike Giardi:

Quote
Malcolm Butler, Saints have the framework for a deal in place, per @MikeGiardi http://ble.ac/2n6QJcn

Are the Saints still trying to work out a deal where they only give up the #32 while BB is telling them to go ahead and sign him (giving us #12)? That is the only thing that makes sense at this point. And with Revis reportedly on his was to NE, the writing seems to be more than on the wall.

The Butler thing will likely drag out for the next month until Draft Day probably.

I truthfully expect he will stay, unless the Saints absolutely blow him away with a massive offer. Like if they offer him less than 13M/Year for the next 3-4 years, I see no reason why NE wouldn't match the offer. And the Saints offering him more than 15M/Year seems unlikely.

Or it just ends up being rumors and he signs his 4M Tender for 2017 and plays for the big contract next year's offseason.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 23, 2017, 05:52:15 PM
TP for the update Phantom!

I would be absolutely ecstatic if Revis came back to the Pats. We all know how well we did his one year he was here. He has probably lost a step, but it would be great to have him with or without Butler.

As for Butler, what is going on?? There was this tweet a couple of days ago from Mike Giardi:

Quote
Malcolm Butler, Saints have the framework for a deal in place, per @MikeGiardi http://ble.ac/2n6QJcn

Are the Saints still trying to work out a deal where they only give up the #32 while BB is telling them to go ahead and sign him (giving us #12)? That is the only thing that makes sense at this point. And with Revis reportedly on his was to NE, the writing seems to be more than on the wall.

Getting Revis back would be interesting. I've heard he's lost a step; I can't say, because I didn't watch him at all this season, but his stats look decent (tackles, etc.)—not many INTs, but that could be at least partly due to his reputation.

His coverage & tackling were rather pathetic.  Poor effort at times & definitely was taking plays off.

Yikes. I don't like the sound of that.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: MJohnnyboy on March 23, 2017, 06:07:45 PM
TP for the update Phantom!

I would be absolutely ecstatic if Revis came back to the Pats. We all know how well we did his one year he was here. He has probably lost a step, but it would be great to have him with or without Butler.

As for Butler, what is going on?? There was this tweet a couple of days ago from Mike Giardi:

Quote
Malcolm Butler, Saints have the framework for a deal in place, per @MikeGiardi http://ble.ac/2n6QJcn

Are the Saints still trying to work out a deal where they only give up the #32 while BB is telling them to go ahead and sign him (giving us #12)? That is the only thing that makes sense at this point. And with Revis reportedly on his was to NE, the writing seems to be more than on the wall.

Getting Revis back would be interesting. I've heard he's lost a step; I can't say, because I didn't watch him at all this season, but his stats look decent (tackles, etc.)—not many INTs, but that could be at least partly due to his reputation.

His coverage & tackling were rather pathetic.  Poor effort at times & definitely was taking plays off.

The optimist in me says Revis' bad play was more on him just not caring with the Jets more than him losing a step. I'm sure he has but I still think he could be a suitable #2 next to Gilmore.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: celticsclay on March 23, 2017, 06:44:17 PM
TP for the update Phantom!

I would be absolutely ecstatic if Revis came back to the Pats. We all know how well we did his one year he was here. He has probably lost a step, but it would be great to have him with or without Butler.

As for Butler, what is going on?? There was this tweet a couple of days ago from Mike Giardi:

Quote
Malcolm Butler, Saints have the framework for a deal in place, per @MikeGiardi http://ble.ac/2n6QJcn

Are the Saints still trying to work out a deal where they only give up the #32 while BB is telling them to go ahead and sign him (giving us #12)? That is the only thing that makes sense at this point. And with Revis reportedly on his was to NE, the writing seems to be more than on the wall.

Getting Revis back would be interesting. I've heard he's lost a step; I can't say, because I didn't watch him at all this season, but his stats look decent (tackles, etc.)—not many INTs, but that could be at least partly due to his reputation.

His coverage & tackling were rather pathetic.  Poor effort at times & definitely was taking plays off.

The optimist in me says Revis' bad play was more on him just not caring with the Jets more than him losing a step. I'm sure he has but I still think he could be a suitable #2 next to Gilmore.

I think that a bit too. Their QB play last year was atrocious and I can that being disheartening as a player nearing the end of your career as an elite player.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on March 23, 2017, 06:55:29 PM
An unnamed NFL exec saying, "New England is the only place that makes sense" amounts exactly to nothing in terms of the actual likelihood for him to sign here.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: MJohnnyboy on March 23, 2017, 06:57:23 PM
TP for the update Phantom!

I would be absolutely ecstatic if Revis came back to the Pats. We all know how well we did his one year he was here. He has probably lost a step, but it would be great to have him with or without Butler.

As for Butler, what is going on?? There was this tweet a couple of days ago from Mike Giardi:

Quote
Malcolm Butler, Saints have the framework for a deal in place, per @MikeGiardi http://ble.ac/2n6QJcn

Are the Saints still trying to work out a deal where they only give up the #32 while BB is telling them to go ahead and sign him (giving us #12)? That is the only thing that makes sense at this point. And with Revis reportedly on his was to NE, the writing seems to be more than on the wall.

Getting Revis back would be interesting. I've heard he's lost a step; I can't say, because I didn't watch him at all this season, but his stats look decent (tackles, etc.)—not many INTs, but that could be at least partly due to his reputation.

His coverage & tackling were rather pathetic.  Poor effort at times & definitely was taking plays off.

The optimist in me says Revis' bad play was more on him just not caring with the Jets more than him losing a step. I'm sure he has but I still think he could be a suitable #2 next to Gilmore.

I think that a bit too. Their QB play last year was atrocious and I can that being disheartening as a player nearing the end of your career as an elite player.

[dang] straight. Man the Jets are too easy to ridicule. When and if Revis comes back, I think he'll get the motivation to be the Revis of old under Belichick's wing.

Of course, I thought the same thing with Albert Haynesworth. It doesn't work with all of them.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: nickagneta on March 24, 2017, 10:10:50 AM
TP for the update Phantom!

I would be absolutely ecstatic if Revis came back to the Pats. We all know how well we did his one year he was here. He has probably lost a step, but it would be great to have him with or without Butler.

As for Butler, what is going on?? There was this tweet a couple of days ago from Mike Giardi:

Quote
Malcolm Butler, Saints have the framework for a deal in place, per @MikeGiardi http://ble.ac/2n6QJcn

Are the Saints still trying to work out a deal where they only give up the #32 while BB is telling them to go ahead and sign him (giving us #12)? That is the only thing that makes sense at this point. And with Revis reportedly on his was to NE, the writing seems to be more than on the wall.

Getting Revis back would be interesting. I've heard he's lost a step; I can't say, because I didn't watch him at all this season, but his stats look decent (tackles, etc.)—not many INTs, but that could be at least partly due to his reputation.

His coverage & tackling were rather pathetic.  Poor effort at times & definitely was taking plays off.

Yikes. I don't like the sound of that.
Reports are he also showed up to camp overweight and out of shape.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: nickagneta on March 24, 2017, 10:21:29 AM
TP for the update Phantom!

I would be absolutely ecstatic if Revis came back to the Pats. We all know how well we did his one year he was here. He has probably lost a step, but it would be great to have him with or without Butler.

As for Butler, what is going on?? There was this tweet a couple of days ago from Mike Giardi:

Quote
Malcolm Butler, Saints have the framework for a deal in place, per @MikeGiardi http://ble.ac/2n6QJcn

Are the Saints still trying to work out a deal where they only give up the #32 while BB is telling them to go ahead and sign him (giving us #12)? That is the only thing that makes sense at this point. And with Revis reportedly on his was to NE, the writing seems to be more than on the wall.

Getting Revis back would be interesting. I've heard he's lost a step; I can't say, because I didn't watch him at all this season, but his stats look decent (tackles, etc.)—not many INTs, but that could be at least partly due to his reputation.

His coverage & tackling were rather pathetic.  Poor effort at times & definitely was taking plays off.

The optimist in me says Revis' bad play was more on him just not caring with the Jets more than him losing a step. I'm sure he has but I still think he could be a suitable #2 next to Gilmore.
Revis was pretty atrocious last year. After his great season in NE, he signed a big contract, got heavy and out of shape and played terrible. He lost more than just a step. He will be 32 next year and unless he can prove he still can be a lockdown guy in great shape with execellent speed and agility again, I am not sure Belichick takes him on, especially since he believes Revis' skills don't translate to the safety position.

Also, you have to take into accounts Revis took at the Pats and Brady after leaving. Will bygones be bygones or will those comments bother some? Just don't see Revis coming back
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Eja117 on March 30, 2017, 07:23:47 PM
Maybe somebody already answered this....instead of allowing the Pats to have one of the best CBs in football for under $4mill why doesn't a team like the Jets just sweep in and offer him like $11mill on a one year deal? Stephon Gilmore got like $13 I think. So then either the Jets get a slightly good deal or force the Pats to make some business decisions, and it gets Butler to free agency, right?

No?
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: GetLucky on March 30, 2017, 07:28:21 PM
Maybe somebody already answered this....instead of allowing the Pats to have one of the best CBs in football for under $4mill why doesn't a team like the Jets just sweep in and offer him like $11mill on a one year deal? Stephon Gilmore got like $13 I think. So then either the Jets get a slightly good deal or force the Pats to make some business decisions, and it gets Butler to free agency, right?

No?

The Pats placed a first-round tender on Butler, which means if they choose not to match they get the signing-team's first round pick. In the Jets' case, they'd be giving up the #6 overall pick, and Belichick would probably pack Butler's bags for him.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: nickagneta on March 30, 2017, 07:30:55 PM
Maybe somebody already answered this....instead of allowing the Pats to have one of the best CBs in football for under $4mill why doesn't a team like the Jets just sweep in and offer him like $11mill on a one year deal? Stephon Gilmore got like $13 I think. So then either the Jets get a slightly good deal or force the Pats to make some business decisions, and it gets Butler to free agency, right?

No?
Because Butler is a restricted free and was tendered as a first round RFA, anyone signing him to a contract like you suggested would need to give up their first round pick to sign him. In the case of the Jets, that would mean the Jets giving up the 6th pick in the draft. It's this reasoning that has made signing first round tendered RFAs an almost extinct event.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: colincb on March 30, 2017, 07:36:32 PM
Maybe somebody already answered this....instead of allowing the Pats to have one of the best CBs in football for under $4mill why doesn't a team like the Jets just sweep in and offer him like $11mill on a one year deal? Stephon Gilmore got like $13 I think. So then either the Jets get a slightly good deal or force the Pats to make some business decisions, and it gets Butler to free agency, right?

No?

The Pats placed a first-round tender on Butler, which means if they choose not to match they get the signing-team's first round pick. In the Jets' case, they'd be giving up the #6 overall pick, and Belichick would probably pack Butler's bags for him.

... and drive him to the airport.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on March 30, 2017, 08:44:38 PM
Maybe somebody already answered this....instead of allowing the Pats to have one of the best CBs in football for under $4mill why doesn't a team like the Jets just sweep in and offer him like $11mill on a one year deal? Stephon Gilmore got like $13 I think. So then either the Jets get a slightly good deal or force the Pats to make some business decisions, and it gets Butler to free agency, right?

No?

The Pats placed a first-round tender on Butler, which means if they choose not to match they get the signing-team's first round pick. In the Jets' case, they'd be giving up the #6 overall pick, and Belichick would probably pack Butler's bags for him.

... and drive him to the airport.

Hell he'd probably drive Butler straight to the Jets facility.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Eja117 on March 31, 2017, 10:54:14 AM
Maybe somebody already answered this....instead of allowing the Pats to have one of the best CBs in football for under $4mill why doesn't a team like the Jets just sweep in and offer him like $11mill on a one year deal? Stephon Gilmore got like $13 I think. So then either the Jets get a slightly good deal or force the Pats to make some business decisions, and it gets Butler to free agency, right?

No?
Because Butler is a restricted free and was tendered as a first round RFA, anyone signing him to a contract like you suggested would need to give up their first round pick to sign him. In the case of the Jets, that would mean the Jets giving up the 6th pick in the draft. It's this reasoning that has made signing first round tendered RFAs an almost extinct event.
Right, so it would have to either be for way less money in the case of the Jets, in which case Butler wouldn't want to...and there'd have to be some wink winki nod nod in terms of a longer term contract later....or a team like the Falcons might be a better fit for what I'm suggesting, but even then the Falcons probably wouldn't want to give up 4 years of a cheap first rounder for two years of a pretty expensive Butler, or even three.

I would still think a team like the Falcons could maybe be tempted....granted a team like the Falcons is maybe already capped out.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Roy H. on March 31, 2017, 11:15:15 AM
I don't know the CBA very well. Can Butler sign after the draft? Do the Pats then get the signing team's 2018 #1?
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Boris Badenov on March 31, 2017, 11:20:53 AM
I don't know the CBA very well. Can Butler sign after the draft? Do the Pats then get the signing team's 2018 #1?

Butler has until April 21 to sign an offer sheet with another team, as far as I can tell.

This is before the draft (April  27).
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on March 31, 2017, 11:35:33 AM
I don't know the CBA very well. Can Butler sign after the draft? Do the Pats then get the signing team's 2018 #1?

Butler has until April 21 to sign an offer sheet with another team, as far as I can tell.

This is before the draft (April  27).

This ESPN article (http://www.espn.com/blog/new-england-patriots/post/_/id/4802188/timing-of-malcolm-butler-signing-his-tender-now-becomes-key) explains the situation.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 02, 2017, 06:41:58 PM
http://www.patspulpit.com/2017/4/2/15156128/report-adrian-peterson-to-visit-patriots

Adrian Peterson meeting with New England tomorrow.

He met with Seattle previously.

Seeing how this Pats offseason has gone, I'm not even going to make any predictions LOL.

But it is surprising they are considering AP but seem mum on Blount (getting older like AP, but knows the Pats system better and doesn't have a bigger injury history - probably also cheap considering his market isn't that big it seems).
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on April 03, 2017, 12:15:42 PM
Not exactly free agency news but still Pats offseason.

Anyone else ticked off that Gronk was messing around a wresling ring instead of rehabbing his back?
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 03, 2017, 12:16:51 PM
Not exactly free agency news but still Pats offseason.

Anyone else ticked off that Gronk was messing around a wresling ring instead of rehabbing his back?

I initially was, and still kind of am.

But it's all scripted, and apparently Pats were okay with it.

That being said, if he has another injury this season there is going to be TONS of criticism coming his way (and possibly could be his last days in NE).

I hope that's not the case though and hopefully he's healthy most of the season/playoffs.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: KG Living Legend on April 03, 2017, 12:36:13 PM
Not exactly free agency news but still Pats offseason.

Anyone else ticked off that Gronk was messing around a wresling ring instead of rehabbing his back?

I initially was, and still kind of am.

But it's all scripted, and apparently Pats were okay with it.

That being said, if he has another injury this season there is going to be TONS of criticism coming his way (and possibly could be his last days in NE).

I hope that's not the case though and hopefully he's healthy most of the season/playoffs.



 Total non issue, Pat's read the script, realizes it was one shoulder bump and lots of talk, much less than contact than a single practice.

 Non issue.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 03, 2017, 12:38:51 PM
Not exactly free agency news but still Pats offseason.

Anyone else ticked off that Gronk was messing around a wresling ring instead of rehabbing his back?

I initially was, and still kind of am.

But it's all scripted, and apparently Pats were okay with it.

That being said, if he has another injury this season there is going to be TONS of criticism coming his way (and possibly could be his last days in NE).

I hope that's not the case though and hopefully he's healthy most of the season/playoffs.



 Total non issue, Pat's read the script, realizes it was one shoulder bump and lots of talk, much less than contact than a single practice.

 Non issue.

Yeah that's what I meant by "scripted" in the post I made.

But it's getting a TON of media hype too, and you know them and how they can overblow things especially if Gronk ends up getting hurt again this season.

Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Eja117 on April 03, 2017, 12:39:54 PM
Not exactly free agency news but still Pats offseason.

Anyone else ticked off that Gronk was messing around a wresling ring instead of rehabbing his back?
Since the Pats are holding him to his contract, leading him to be pretty underpaid by NFL standards, they have no leverage over him. They could bench him. They could scowl at him.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 03, 2017, 01:44:13 PM
Apparently the Raiders are "locked in" on Lynch, which is why AP is considering NE too.

I think OAK could end up with either, which could be trouble for NE.

I see OAK being the biggest threat to us in the AFC. Pittsburgh's defense is still trash and unless Romo is traded to HOU (to go along with that great defense), I really don't see another true threat in the conference, at least on paper.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on April 03, 2017, 01:49:18 PM
Total non issue, Pat's read the script, realizes it was one shoulder bump and lots of talk, much less than contact than a single practice.

 Non issue.
I realize it's scripted and that there wasn't a lot of contact, but my point still stands. Real injuries happen at these events.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcwqSJLNrOE
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 03, 2017, 01:59:44 PM
OT: Patriots being honored at the Red Sox home opener.

I think Gronk is there too LOL (not 100% sure though).
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on April 03, 2017, 02:36:38 PM
OT: Patriots being honored at the Red Sox home opener.

I think Gronk is there too LOL (not 100% sure though).

He's there. He and Brady engaged in a good-natured tussle over Brady's jersey. ;D
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 03, 2017, 02:37:29 PM
OT: Patriots being honored at the Red Sox home opener.

I think Gronk is there too LOL (not 100% sure though).

He's there. He and Brady engaged in a good-natured tussle over Brady's jersey. ;D

Haha yeah I saw.

Hopefully the Red Sox are motivated to get their fourth since 2004.

They've seen the Pats come by twice in the last three years.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on April 03, 2017, 03:06:32 PM
OT: Patriots being honored at the Red Sox home opener.

I think Gronk is there too LOL (not 100% sure though).

He's there. He and Brady engaged in a good-natured tussle over Brady's jersey. ;D

Haha yeah I saw.

Hopefully the Red Sox are motivated to get their fourth since 2004.

They've seen the Pats come by twice in the last three years.

Brady should've worn a shirt with a giant 6 on it.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on April 03, 2017, 04:12:56 PM
Peterson leaves without contract but may revisit situation later.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on April 03, 2017, 04:14:29 PM
Peterson leaves without contract but may revisit situation later.

Curran had some good speculation on this whole AP thing.  I think there could be some truth to the agent idea.

Quote
So, why’d the Patriots have him in?

My theory? They’re doing a solid for Peterson’s agent, Ben Dogra. Once one of the league’s most powerful reps when he was at CAA, Dogra was just reinstated in February by the NFLPA. The Patriots always had good relationships with Dogra. Now, as he’s trying to regain his foothold, his most recognizable client – Peterson – can’t get a sniff around the league. There’s no better way to make other organizations – owners especially – perk up than to get the Patriots imprimatur on Peterson even if it’s just a visit.

As Mike Florio points out, the Patriots could have done a low-key tire-kicking with Peterson.

Instead, The Oracle – Adam Schefter - had it Sunday night. Florio thinks it’s to put the heat on LeGarrette Blount and says a Peterson signing is unlikely. I think it’s a mere back-scratching for Dogra that the team hopes Dogra may remember somewhere down the line when doing a deal.

What we do agree on is that Adrian Peterson won’t be a Patriot.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 04, 2017, 07:00:42 PM
So you all probably heard what happened with Romo today (his decision to "retire" and work at CBS in the broadcasts).

This might help NE out in some ways.

For starters, it means HOU and DEN AREN'T getting Romo, so there should be no other threats in the AFC besides maybe OAK.

Also, now Jimmy G. is the best available QB out there that's not in the NFL Draft. Might drive his price up a bit if a team is desperate and the Pats are willing to deal him for a treasure chest of picks.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on April 04, 2017, 07:10:12 PM
So you all probably heard what happened with Romo today (his decision to "retire" and work at CBS in the broadcasts).

This might help NE out in some ways.

For starters, it means HOU and DEN AREN'T getting Romo, so there should be no other threats in the AFC besides maybe OAK.

Also, now Jimmy G. is the best available QB out there that's not in the NFL Draft. Might drive his price up a bit if a team is desperate and the Pats are willing to deal him for a treasure chest of picks.
I was definitely worried Houston or Denver would pick him up and become real contenders right away.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 04, 2017, 07:17:11 PM
So you all probably heard what happened with Romo today (his decision to "retire" and work at CBS in the broadcasts).

This might help NE out in some ways.

For starters, it means HOU and DEN AREN'T getting Romo, so there should be no other threats in the AFC besides maybe OAK.

Also, now Jimmy G. is the best available QB out there that's not in the NFL Draft. Might drive his price up a bit if a team is desperate and the Pats are willing to deal him for a treasure chest of picks.
I was definitely worried Houston or Denver would pick him up and become real contenders right away.

I wouldn't be joking about Houston.

If they added Romo to go along with that elite defense, they could have been a threat.

Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on April 04, 2017, 07:26:54 PM
So you all probably heard what happened with Romo today (his decision to "retire" and work at CBS in the broadcasts).

This might help NE out in some ways.

For starters, it means HOU and DEN AREN'T getting Romo, so there should be no other threats in the AFC besides maybe OAK.

Also, now Jimmy G. is the best available QB out there that's not in the NFL Draft. Might drive his price up a bit if a team is desperate and the Pats are willing to deal him for a treasure chest of picks.
I was definitely worried Houston or Denver would pick him up and become real contenders right away.

I wouldn't be joking about Houston.

If they added Romo to go along with that elite defense, they could have been a threat.
I wasnt joking. Both those teams are a quarterback away in my opinion. Houston is probably better. I think denver is getting a bit old. That spending spree from a few years ago is beginning to takes its toll on depth over there.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 05, 2017, 01:57:53 PM
So you all probably heard what happened with Romo today (his decision to "retire" and work at CBS in the broadcasts).

This might help NE out in some ways.

For starters, it means HOU and DEN AREN'T getting Romo, so there should be no other threats in the AFC besides maybe OAK.

Also, now Jimmy G. is the best available QB out there that's not in the NFL Draft. Might drive his price up a bit if a team is desperate and the Pats are willing to deal him for a treasure chest of picks.
I was definitely worried Houston or Denver would pick him up and become real contenders right away.

I wouldn't be joking about Houston.

If they added Romo to go along with that elite defense, they could have been a threat.
I wasnt joking. Both those teams are a quarterback away in my opinion. Houston is probably better. I think denver is getting a bit old. That spending spree from a few years ago is beginning to takes its toll on depth over there.

Oh my bad, sorry haha.

Yeah I think DEN O-Line is still an issue honestly, so even with Romo they'd struggle a bit.

Also Denver's defense isn't as good as it was a few years ago (still great, but not elite).
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 05, 2017, 01:59:17 PM
So apparently, SEA are "seriously" listening to offers for Sherman and are ACTUALLY considering trading him. (According to their GM)

Still a huge long shot, but he has said he wouldn't mind a trade to NE.

Again, it's a huge long shot, but something to monitor I guess as draft day approaches.

The thing is, Pats also don't have any 1st/2nd rounders as of now.. which is a slight problem.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on April 05, 2017, 02:00:04 PM
Romo is replacing Simms next season, FWIW, so it seems his playing days are over.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Donoghus on April 05, 2017, 02:04:11 PM
Romo is replacing Simms next season, FWIW, so it seems his playing days are over.

That's the best news to come out of this whole thing.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: jambr380 on April 05, 2017, 02:40:38 PM
So apparently, SEA are "seriously" listening to offers for Sherman and are ACTUALLY considering trading him. (According to their GM)

Still a huge long shot, but he has said he wouldn't mind a trade to NE.

Again, it's a huge long shot, but something to monitor I guess as draft day approaches.

The thing is, Pats also don't have any 1st/2nd rounders as of now.. which is a slight problem.

Well, it seems they could easily re-acquire their #32 if they let Butler go to NO. I am not sure if that is enough to get Sherman or if two years of Sherman at big money is worth the pick and Butler, but it certainly would make us ultra-dominant at the CB position for the next two years.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on April 05, 2017, 03:09:47 PM
So apparently, SEA are "seriously" listening to offers for Sherman and are ACTUALLY considering trading him. (According to their GM)

Still a huge long shot, but he has said he wouldn't mind a trade to NE.

Again, it's a huge long shot, but something to monitor I guess as draft day approaches.

The thing is, Pats also don't have any 1st/2nd rounders as of now.. which is a slight problem.

Well, it seems they could easily re-acquire their #32 if they let Butler go to NO. I am not sure if that is enough to get Sherman or if two years of Sherman at big money is worth the pick and Butler, but it certainly would make us ultra-dominant at the CB position for the next two years.
NO is not interested in giving Butler an offer sheet so I don't think that's on the table.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on April 05, 2017, 03:17:07 PM
Romo is replacing Simms next season, FWIW, so it seems his playing days are over.

That's the best news to come out of this whole thing.

That was my thought, as well. Wonder how many of us there are.

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kozlodoev on April 05, 2017, 03:47:47 PM
Romo is replacing Simms next season, FWIW, so it seems his playing days are over.

That's the best news to come out of this whole thing.

That was my thought, as well. Wonder how many of us there are.
Many :)
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 05, 2017, 06:27:03 PM
Pats have re-signed Brandon Bolden!  ;D

I think we'll end up keeping Blount too at a cheap rate, but he'll sign later this month (Not now).

Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 10, 2017, 01:46:01 PM
Now there's a rumor going around saying that if talks with Raiders breaks down, Lynch would be willing to go to New England. Hmm... lol we're linked with EVERYONE  :P
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on April 10, 2017, 01:53:51 PM
Now there's a rumor going around saying that if talks with Raiders breaks down, Lynch would be willing to go to New England. Hmm... lol we're linked with EVERYONE  :P

Makes sense. He wants his title. Apparently, he was (not) involved in some big play against the Pats in the Super Bowl a few years back. Don't remember all the details.

;)

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: nickagneta on April 10, 2017, 02:11:32 PM
Zolack said that the Sherman to NE deal isn't dead yet and that Lynch is putting off the Raiders because he wants to play where Sherman plays. Package deal sorta.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 18, 2017, 04:00:43 PM
Amendola takes a pay cut to stay with New England next season.

And the Pats have signed an offer sheet with Mike Gillislee (2/6.4M, ~4M first year).

Early indications are that Buffalo will NOT match that offer.

In that case, Pats get Gillislee but also have to give the Bills their 5th rounder.

I guess that means Blount is officially gone  :(
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on April 18, 2017, 04:10:16 PM
Amendola takes a pay cut to stay with New England next season.

And the Pats have signed an offer sheet with Mike Gillislee (2/6.4M, ~4M first year).

Early indications are that Buffalo will NOT match that offer.

In that case, Pats get Gillislee but also have to give the Bills their 5th rounder.

I guess that means Blount is officially gone  :(

I'll be bummed if Blount is gone. But maybe the Pats have their eye on a younger, cheaper power back in the draft.

Edit: But I'm glad Amendola's back. ;D
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 18, 2017, 04:25:08 PM
Amendola takes a pay cut to stay with New England next season.

And the Pats have signed an offer sheet with Mike Gillislee (2/6.4M, ~4M first year).

Early indications are that Buffalo will NOT match that offer.

In that case, Pats get Gillislee but also have to give the Bills their 5th rounder.

I guess that means Blount is officially gone  :(

I'll be bummed if Blount is gone. But maybe the Pats have their eye on a younger, cheaper power back in the draft.

Edit: But I'm glad Amendola's back. ;D

I don't think they'll draft a RB high in the draft anymore.

Already have Lewis, White, Burkhead, Bolden and now potentially Gillislee.

They may draft one in the middle rounds, but it's a logjam at RB kind of.

I think their focus should be O-Line (with Vollmer gone and Solder aging), and pass rush (need another with Ninkovich aging and Chris Long no longer here).
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 18, 2017, 04:52:49 PM
https://twitter.com/FieldYates/status/854435521350815744?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet

Butler has signed his tender! Trade still an option though.

Wow, a busy day for the Patriots.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on April 18, 2017, 05:06:48 PM
Amendola takes a pay cut to stay with New England next season.

And the Pats have signed an offer sheet with Mike Gillislee (2/6.4M, ~4M first year).

Early indications are that Buffalo will NOT match that offer.

In that case, Pats get Gillislee but also have to give the Bills their 5th rounder.

I guess that means Blount is officially gone  :(

I'll be bummed if Blount is gone. But maybe the Pats have their eye on a younger, cheaper power back in the draft.

Edit: But I'm glad Amendola's back. ;D

I don't think they'll draft a RB high in the draft anymore.

Already have Lewis, White, Burkhead, Bolden and now potentially Gillislee.

They may draft one in the middle rounds, but it's a logjam at RB kind of.

I think their focus should be O-Line (with Vollmer gone and Solder aging), and pass rush (need another with Ninkovich aging and Chris Long no longer here).

I really like their current stable of RBs, but is Gillislee a power back?

I agree that the O-line should be the highest priority—gotta give Brady enough time to work—followed by the pass rush.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 24, 2017, 06:45:03 PM
Bills decline to match the offer. Gillislee now a Patriot!

Thanks for #4 and #5 Blount Force Trauma! I guess this means he is gone for good now.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on April 24, 2017, 06:58:37 PM
I like Gillislee, I like Burkhead, I like White, I like Lewis. I do wish we had a bigger back to throw at people, but our offense is stacked and very deep.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: green_bballers13 on April 24, 2017, 07:07:30 PM
Blount was a good rb for us. I'm excited about the White/Lewis/Burkhead/Gillislee combo, which is ridiculously deep. So are the WRs: Edelman, Cooks, Amendola, Hogan, Mitchell, and Slater.  Combined with Gronk, Dwayne Allen, and Devlin, Brady has at least 11 legit weapons. I don't remember him having so many weapons.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Ilikesports17 on April 24, 2017, 08:37:13 PM
With Gilislee, our second string offense consists of:
Garoppolo
Gilislee,Lewis
Allen
Mitchell Dola

thats honestly a decent offense.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: KG Living Legend on April 24, 2017, 09:00:03 PM
 Check out these highlights against the Patriots last year at 40 seconds in.

 Shows real toughness on the goaline, he runs over Jamie Collins, and again against the Seahawks. No fear running up the middle.

 Great sign for a smaller 5'11" 210 pound running back.

 https://youtu.be/PE_STO0ML5s
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 24, 2017, 09:30:27 PM
Blount was a good rb for us. I'm excited about the White/Lewis/Burkhead/Gillislee combo, which is ridiculously deep. So are the WRs: Edelman, Cooks, Amendola, Hogan, Mitchell, and Slater.  Combined with Gronk, Dwayne Allen, and Devlin, Brady has at least 11 legit weapons. I don't remember him having so many weapons.

We might as well cut our punter. We may not need him at all this season  :laugh:
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on April 25, 2017, 03:58:38 PM
Blount sat about ten rows in front of me at Cs games. I'll miss seeing him on the Jumbo.

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 25, 2017, 04:16:39 PM
Blount sat about ten rows in front of me at Cs games. I'll miss seeing him on the Jumbo.

Mike

Yeah same. Hope he's still around for these playoffs at least  ;)
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: rocknrollforyoursoul on April 25, 2017, 04:35:38 PM
Blount sat about ten rows in front of me at Cs games. I'll miss seeing him on the Jumbo.

Mike

I'll miss his presence at the games. He was there often, really threw himself into the overall Boston sports scene, which I love.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: jaketwice on April 25, 2017, 04:56:22 PM
I mean, LeAean McCoy is that Bills offence. Gillislee was a solid backup for them. If McCoy is injured - what are they going to do? Surely it didn't escap Belichick's recollection that we lost to them last year on the last "no Brady" game...

Gillislee averaged 5 YPC in that game. Hurts Buffalo, and maybe prevents them from beating us next year. Cruel move.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 27, 2017, 01:29:14 PM
My gut feeling thinks that Sherman-to-Patriots talks will intensify the next few days as the Draft goes on.

Not saying it will happen (it probably won't), but just something to monitor.

Idk how I'd feel about it if it meant Butler was gone though...  :(
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on April 27, 2017, 02:00:30 PM
Blount sat about ten rows in front of me at Cs games. I'll miss seeing him on the Jumbo.

Mike

Yeah same. Hope he's still around for these playoffs at least  ;)

He wasn't there, but Jimmy Garappolo was. They kept showing JG on the Jumbotron.

Overheard one guy in my row talking with the usher:

Guy in my row: "Man, I'm happily married, but Garappolo is one of the most beautiful men I've ever seen. If he asked me to leave my wife for him, I'd have to consider it."

Usher: "I was just saying the same thing to somebody else!"

Oh, wait, that guy in my row was me. Note to self: No bringing wife to the games.

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: kraidstar on April 27, 2017, 02:45:12 PM
Blount sat about ten rows in front of me at Cs games. I'll miss seeing him on the Jumbo.

Mike

Yeah same. Hope he's still around for these playoffs at least  ;)

He wasn't there, but Jimmy Garappolo was. They kept showing JG on the Jumbotron.

Overheard one guy in my row talking with the usher:

Guy in my row: "Man, I'm happily married, but Garappolo is one of the most beautiful men I've ever seen. If he asked me to leave my wife for him, I'd have to consider it."

Usher: "I was just saying the same thing to somebody else!"

Oh, wait, that guy in my row was me. Note to self: No bringing wife to the games.

Mike

TP

My friend's Floridian wife makes fun of my friend and I for our obsessive love of Brady.

We have a running joke now, I tell her it's perfectly normal, and that Tom Brady successfully turned seven million New England men into bisexuals.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on April 28, 2017, 02:45:15 PM
Blount sat about ten rows in front of me at Cs games. I'll miss seeing him on the Jumbo.

Mike

Yeah same. Hope he's still around for these playoffs at least  ;)

He wasn't there, but Jimmy Garappolo was. They kept showing JG on the Jumbotron.

Overheard one guy in my row talking with the usher:

Guy in my row: "Man, I'm happily married, but Garappolo is one of the most beautiful men I've ever seen. If he asked me to leave my wife for him, I'd have to consider it."

Usher: "I was just saying the same thing to somebody else!"

Oh, wait, that guy in my row was me. Note to self: No bringing wife to the games.

Mike

TP

My friend's Floridian wife makes fun of my friend and I for our obsessive love of Brady.

We have a running joke now, I tell her it's perfectly normal, and that Tom Brady successfully turned seven million New England men into bisexuals.

Brady lives about two miles from us and I told my wife that if she ever has a chance to have an affair with him, not only is she allowed to but, in fact, she is encouraged to, since it would raise my "social standing" if I could say that my wife had an affair with TB12. She thought this was really funny and told a couple of her girlfriends at work. Turns out that their husbands had all, independently, told their wives the same thing.

Okay, enough on that subject.

ESPN mentioned that the Browns asked the Pats about JG again last night. Clearly the Pats said no. Given how much teams were willing to shell out for quarterbacks (The 49ers should be in jail for grand theft.), what do you think they offered? Wonder what would have gotten the trade done.

Mike
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 28, 2017, 09:59:45 PM
LOL. Wait all night for Patriots to draft.

And they trade down from #72 to #83 and #124
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: Phantom255x on April 30, 2017, 11:17:28 AM
Patriots only picked 4 guys in the draft, and then a bunch of un-drafted guys.

Smallest draft class in Patriots history I believe.

But essentially they also added Cooks, Gillislee, Ealy and Allen through their trades (involving the picks), so I guess it's fine.
Title: Re: Patriots Free Agency Thread
Post by: mef730 on April 30, 2017, 11:36:53 AM
Patriots only picked 4 guys in the draft, and then a bunch of un-drafted guys.

Smallest draft class in Patriots history I believe.

But essentially they also added Cooks, Gillislee, Ealy and Allen through their trades (involving the picks), so I guess it's fine.

The only concern I have is that Mel Kiper gave our draft an A. He loves to hate on the Pats and is usually wrong, so I'm sorry that trend didn't continue.

Mike