Archive: Patriots
Patriots Set to Open Camp on Rainy Morning
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.--It's a rainy day here and the Patriots are scheduled to have their first couple practices of training camp. They've moved the morning practice, scheduled for 8:45, to their indoor facility. There will be plenty to talk about, from the aftereffects of the Super Bowl loss and Spygate,...
By Mark Maske | July 24, 2008; 08:21 AM ET | Comments (1)
Plea Deal for Patriots' Kaczur
New England Patriots offensive tackle Nick Kaczur pleaded guilty to speeding today as part of a plea deal with prosecutors. Under the deal, a misdemeanor drug possession charge will be dismissed if Kaczur stays out of trouble for six months. Kaczur reportedly had 202 OxyContin pills when he was...
By Mark Maske | July 22, 2008; 04:34 PM ET | Comments (0)
Patriots Add A. Clement
The Patriots have announced the signing of free agent offensive tackle Anthony Clement, a former starter for the Jets. Clement was released by the Jets after last season. He previously played for the Cardinals and 49ers....
By Mark Maske | July 22, 2008; 11:39 AM ET | Comments (0)
Patriots Sign Pair of Third-Rounders
The New England Patriots have announced the signings of two third-round draft choices, linebacker Shawn Crable and quarterback Kevin O'Connell. Crable was selected 78th overall in April and O'Connell was picked 94th. The defending AFC champions have their first practice of training camp scheduled for Thursday....
By Mark Maske | July 21, 2008; 10:43 AM ET | Comments (2)
Key NFL Question No. 10: Is Spygate Over?
My thoughts: Yes. Whether you agree with the actions taken by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell or not, Goodell did act. The public didn't share the ongoing interest of Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) and Matt Walsh didn't have the goods when it came to the allegation that the Patriots had...
By Mark Maske | July 20, 2008; 09:38 AM ET | Comments (3)
Key NFL Question No. 2: Will the Patriots Make Another Run at an Unbeaten Season?
My thought: No. They still have Tom Brady. They re-signed Randy Moss. Coach Bill Belichick undoubtedly will use the Super Bowl defeat to the Giants and the uproar over the Spygate scandal to create an us-against-the-world resolve to contribute to another championship run. The schedule is far from overwhelming....
By Mark Maske | July 8, 2008; 04:10 PM ET | Comments (9)
Specter On Spygate: "I've Gone As Far As I Can"
Even Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) now appears ready to allow the Spygate scandal to fade away. The Philadelphia Daily News reported that Specter told the newspaper's editorial board Monday that he won't ask fellow Capitol Hill lawmakers to pursue the matter and won't request hearings of the Senate Judiciary...
By Mark Maske | June 17, 2008; 10:37 AM ET | Comments (6)
Specter Repeats Call for NFL to Hire Outside Investigator
Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) hasn't forgotten about Spygate just yet. Specter entered a floor statement into the Congressional record Thursday. He reiterated the same points he's been making all along, repeating his criticisms that the NFL's investigation of the videotaping scandal involving the New England Patriots was insufficient. He...
By Mark Maske | June 6, 2008; 09:47 AM ET | Comments (2)
Patriots Lineman Reportedly Participated in DEA Sting After Prescription Drug Arrest
There's more controversy for the New England Patriots. The Boston Globe reported today that Patriots offensive tackle Nick Kaczur was arrested in April for illegal possession of prescription painkillers. Kaczur subsequently assisted Drug Enforcement Administration agents by wearing a hidden recording device to gather evidence against his alleged supplier,...
By Mark Maske | June 4, 2008; 01:57 PM ET | Email a Comment
League Probe of Non-Videotaping Allegations Against Patriots by Walsh Ongoing
The NFL continues to investigate two non-videotaping allegations against the New England Patriots made by their former video assistant, Matt Walsh. When he met with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell 10 days ago in New York to be interviewed about the videotaping scandal, Walsh also told Goodell and other league...
By Mark Maske | May 23, 2008; 12:03 PM ET | Comments (1)
Belichick Says Walsh Lacks Credibility
New England Patriots Coach Bill Belichick fired back at former Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh during an interview with CBS News aired this evening. "I don't know what the agenda is," Belichick said. "Again, he was fired here for poor job performance. There's not a lot of credibility. You...
By Mark Maske | May 16, 2008; 06:58 PM ET | Comments (11)
Martz Issues Statement About Rams' Walk-Through
Former St. Louis Rams coach Mike Martz has issued a statement about the circumstances surrounding the team's walk-through before it played the New England Patriots in the Super Bowl in 2002. It says: "I had the opportunity to talk to Commissioner [Roger] Goodell yesterday and I was very satisfied...
By Mark Maske | May 15, 2008; 08:17 PM ET | Comments (6)
More From Matt Walsh's HBO Interview
In today's print edition, we wrote about Matt Walsh's interview with HBO scheduled to air Friday night. The story focuses on Walsh's contention that the New England Patriots gained a significant competitive advantage from their illegal videotaping program and quotes him extensively from excerpts from the interview released by...
By Mark Maske | May 15, 2008; 08:10 PM ET | Comments (3)
Ted Kennedy Says Senate Has More Important Business
Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-Mass.) says the New England Patriots' videotaping scandal should not be a matter for Congressional scrutiny. "With the war in Iraq raging on, gasoline prices closing in on $4 a gallon, and Americans losing their homes at record rates to foreclosure, the United States Senate...
By Mark Maske | May 15, 2008; 07:52 PM ET | Comments (3)
Daboll Does Not Verify Walsh's Account Of Rams' Walk-Through Info
A former New England Patriots assistant coach did not verify the account given to the NFL this week by Matt Walsh about relaying information from the St. Louis Rams' walk-through before the Super Bowl in 2002. The league has announced that members of its security department re-interviewed Brian Daboll,...
By Mark Maske | May 15, 2008; 07:51 PM ET | Email a Comment
Specter Calls for Independent Investigation
Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) today called for the NFL to appoint an independent investigator to look into the videotaping scandal involving the New England Patriots. "What is necessary is an objective investigation," Specter said during a Capitol Hill news conference. "This one has not been objective." Specter, the ranking...
By Mark Maske | May 14, 2008; 02:06 PM ET | Comments (9)
Boston Herald Issues Apology
The Boston Herald has issued an apology for its admittedly "false" Feb. 2 report that the New England Patriots videotaped the St. Louis Rams' walk-through before the two teams played in the Super Bowl in 2002. The apology, printed in today's editions, reads: "On Feb. 2, 2008, the Boston...
By Mark Maske | May 14, 2008; 07:10 AM ET | Comments (5)
Patriots Issue Statement
The New England Patriots have issued a statement. It says: "We want to address the allegation that the Patriots taped the Rams walkthrough prior to Super Bowl XXXVI. For the past three-and-a-half months, we have been defending ourselves against assumptions made based on an unsubstantiated report rather than on...
By Mark Maske | May 13, 2008; 05:00 PM ET | Comments (2)
Something to Keep In Mind About the Patriots' September Penalties
The delivery of eight videotapes to the NFL's offices Thursday from former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh is producing calls for the league to impose new penalties upon the Patriots. It's not my place in this situation to express an opinion about what the league should or...
By Mark Maske | May 9, 2008; 10:43 AM ET | Comments (14)
Specter Issues Statement
Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) has released a statement about the latest developments in the "SpyGate" case. It says: "I think it is very unfortunate that the NFL has already started its 'nothing new' spin before watching the tapes or finding out what Mr. Matt Walsh has to say. Let's...
By Mark Maske | May 8, 2008; 07:00 PM ET | Comments (2)
Tapes Being Reviewed By League
The eight videotapes handed over to the league by former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh arrived in the NFL's offices in New York today, as promised. They're being reviewed by league officials. It's too soon to say for certain there won't be any further penalties imposed on...
By Mark Maske | May 8, 2008; 03:40 PM ET | Comments (3)
Is SpyGate Almost Over?
Is the "SpyGate" scandal now just about over? Perhaps. The lawyer for former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh sent a letter to the NFL Wednesday saying that eight videotapes from Walsh will arrive at the league's offices in New York today. Today is the deadline for Walsh...
By Mark Maske | May 8, 2008; 09:51 AM ET | Comments (2)
Walsh Turns Over Eight Tapes to League But Not One of Rams' Walk-Through
The NFL has been sent eight videotapes by former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh, a league official said tonight. All of them are games between the 2000 and 2002 seasons in which the Patriots taped opponents' play signals. Included were games against the Miami Dolphins, Buffalo Bills,...
By Mark Maske | May 7, 2008; 09:35 PM ET | Comments (20)
Deadline for Walsh to Hand Over "SpyGate" Materials Looming
Soon, we all should know what Matt Walsh knows about "SpyGate." The deadline for the former New England Patriots video assistant to turn over to the league any materials that he possesses related to the videotaping scandal involving his former team is Thursday, under his agreement with the NFL...
By Mark Maske | May 6, 2008; 09:58 AM ET | Comments (1)
Goodell Says He's Prepared to Act if Further Violations By Patriots Are Substantiated
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell spoke to a gathering of sports editors today in New York. There was no major news, but there were a few tidbits. According to Post football editor Cindy Boren, who was on hand, Goodell said he's prepared to punish the New England Patriots severely if...
By Mark Maske | April 24, 2008; 06:43 PM ET | Comments (2)
Patriots Statement
The New England Patriots have issued a written statement about Matt Walsh's agreement to be interviewed by the league about the "SpyGate" scandal. It says: "The New England Patriots are pleased to learn that Matt Walsh is finally willing to come forward to meet with the NFL. We are...
By Mark Maske | April 23, 2008; 05:07 PM ET | Comments (4)
NFL Completes Deal With Former Patriots Video Assistant
The NFL has completed an agreement with former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh. The deal provides legal protection for Walsh. In return, Walsh is to turn over materials to the league by May 8 and is to meet with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell on May 13 in...
By Mark Maske | April 23, 2008; 12:37 PM ET | Comments (18)
League, M. Walsh Nearing Deal
Lawyers for the NFL and former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh are close to completing an agreement that would provide legal protection for Walsh so that he could be interviewed by league officials about the videotaping scandal involving the Patriots. Indications are that the deal could be...
By Mark Maske | April 23, 2008; 11:42 AM ET | Comments (3)
Progress in M. Walsh Negotiations?
Lawyers for the league and former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh continue to negotiate an agreement that would provide legal protection for Walsh if he is interviewed by NFL officials about the videotaping scandal involving the Patriots. There are hopes that a deal perhaps could be completed...
By Mark Maske | April 22, 2008; 05:39 PM ET | Comments (1)
Walsh Still on League's Radar Screen
The NFL hasn't forgotten about Matt Walsh, the former New England Patriots video assistant who has hinted to media organizations that he has further information about the "SpyGate" scandal. Commissioner Roger Goodell reportedly said during an appearance in the Dallas area Wednesday that he hopes to meet with Walsh...
By Mark Maske | April 18, 2008; 10:21 AM ET | Email a Comment
Patriots to Take 23-Game Regular Season Winning Streak Into October Game in San Diego?
The New England Patriots will take a 19-game regular season winning streak into next season. It's difficult to envision them not extending it to 23 games in a row. Their first four games are against the Chiefs, Jets, Dolphins and 49ers (with a Week 4 bye thrown in for...
By Mark Maske | April 15, 2008; 07:41 PM ET | Comments (6)
Kraft, Belichick Addressed Other Owners and Coaches Behind Closed Doors Today
PALM BEACH, Fla.--New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft and Coach Bill Belichick addressed the league's other owners and head coaches during a meeting today. According to people familiar with the speeches, Kraft gave a heart-felt address in which he expressed regret over the videotaping scandal involving his franchise and...
By Mark Maske | April 1, 2008; 05:19 PM ET | Comments (1)
Belichick Had Followup "SpyGate" Interview With League After Super Bowl
PALM BEACH, Fla.--NFL officials interviewed New England Patriots Coach Bill Belichick for a second time after the Super Bowl about the "SpyGate" scandal. The interview was revealed by Belichick at the AFC coaches' media breakfast here today at the league meeting, and confirmed by NFL officials. The interview came...
By Mark Maske | April 1, 2008; 08:37 AM ET | Email a Comment
Kraft On SpyGate
PALM BEACH, Fla.--The videotaping scandal involving the New England Patriots is what prompted NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to propose measures cracking down on cheating. Yet Patriots owner Robert Kraft said today he's supportive of Goodell's proposals. "I think everything he's proposing is fine and good," Kraft said. "Everyone wants...
By Mark Maske | March 31, 2008; 07:08 PM ET | Email a Comment
And You Are...?
PALM BEACH, Fla.--New England Patriots Coach Bill Belichick arrived for NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell's address this morning to begin the annual league meeting. One problem: Belichick wasn't wearing his credential and, according to people who witnessed the scene, the security guard stationed outside the meeting room at the Breakers...
By Mark Maske | March 31, 2008; 10:50 AM ET | Comments (1)
Rules Allow Titans to Trade Jones to Cowboys... Or Anyone Else
There are reports that the Dallas Cowboys are talking to the Tennessee Titans about a possible trade for suspended cornerback Adam (Pacman) Jones. Jones also has been linked to other possible new teams, including the New England Patriots and Detroit Lions, in media speculation about prospective trades. Which leads...
By Mark Maske | March 21, 2008; 12:59 PM ET | Email a Comment
Patriots Add F. Bryant
The New England Patriots continue to remake their secondary by agreeing to a contract today with free agent cornerback Fernando Bryant, cut by the Detroit Lions. In free agency, the Patriots have added cornerbacks Bryant, Jason Webster and Lewis Sanders, along with safety Tank Williams. They've lost cornerbacks Asante...
By Mark Maske | March 20, 2008; 04:56 PM ET | Email a Comment
No Deal Yet Between Walsh, NFL
People familiar with the discussions between the NFL and former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh say an agreement between the two sides remains close but is not completed yet. Both sides released statements Sunday evening saying they expected an agreement to be completed soon. They have been...
By Mark Maske | March 10, 2008; 06:02 PM ET | Email a Comment
League Close to Deal to Interview Walsh About "SpyGate"
The NFL is close to an agreement to interview former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh, possibly a key figure in the "SpyGate" investigation. Attorneys for Walsh and the league have been negotiating an agreement to indemnify Walsh against possible legal problems arising from what he might tell...
By Mark Maske | March 9, 2008; 08:30 PM ET | Comments (1)
Patriots Add Safety
Free agent safety Tank Williams agreed to a one-year deal with the New England Patriots. Williams leaves the Minnesota Vikings. He could be a possible replacement in New England for Eugene Wilson, a free agent safety who is drawing interest from several teams....
By Mark Maske | March 6, 2008; 07:30 AM ET | Comments (116)
Patriots Retain J. Gaffney
Free agent wide receiver Jabar Gaffney agreed to a one-year, $2 million contract Tuesday night to remain with the New England Patriots. The Patriots are doing what they can to keep quarterback Tom Brady's receiver corps intact, losing Donte' Stallworth but re-signing Randy Moss and Gaffney to go with...
By Mark Maske | March 5, 2008; 09:53 AM ET | Email a Comment
Cornerback-Needy Patriots Sign J. Webster
The New England Patriots signed free agent cornerback Jason Webster. Webster was with the Buffalo Bills this past season but played only one game before being placed on the injured reserve list. He previously had stints with the San Francisco 49ers and Atlanta Falcons. The Patriots needed help at...
By Mark Maske | March 4, 2008; 10:36 PM ET | Comments (49)
Eagles Made Bid for R. Moss
The Philadelphia Eagles made a run at signing wide receiver Randy Moss before he re-signed today with the New England Patriots. The Eagles had a bitter parting with another receiving diva, Terrell Owens. But they did reach a Super Bowl with Owens on their roster, and NFL sources said...
By Mark Maske | March 3, 2008; 10:09 PM ET | Comments (218)
Patriots Announce Moss Re-Signing
Wide receiver Randy Moss's deal with the New England Patriots is official. The three-year, $27 million contract includes $15 million in guaranteed money, most of that in a $12 million signing bonus. It certainly looks like Moss gave the Patriots a discount, given that a less productive wideout like...
By Mark Maske | March 3, 2008; 07:02 PM ET | Email a Comment
R. Moss, Patriots Have Tentative Deal
The NFL's top free agent is off the market. Wide receiver Randy Moss has tentatively agreed to a three-year, $27 million contract to remain with the New England Patriots, an NFL source said. The two sides are working out the final details of the contract and, barring any last-second...
By Mark Maske | March 3, 2008; 02:12 PM ET | Comments (16)
Patriots, R. Moss Said to be Close to Deal
NFL sources say the New England Patriots are close to re-signing wide receiver Randy Moss. Moss set a single-season league record with 23 touchdown catches this past season after being traded from the Oakland Raiders to the Patriots. He agreed to a restructured contract with a reduced salary as...
By Mark Maske | March 3, 2008; 02:08 PM ET | Email a Comment
R. Gay to Saints as Patriots Lose Another Cornerback
The New England Patriots have lost another cornerback. Two days after Asante Samuel left for the Philadelphia Eagles, fellow unrestricted free agent Randall Gay has agreed to a four-year, $17.8 million deal with the New Orleans Saints. The contract includes $6.9 million in guaranteed money. It's a homecoming for...
By Mark Maske | March 2, 2008; 03:35 PM ET | Comments (1)
No Resolution Yet on R. Moss
The first day of free agency came and went without any resolution of Randy Moss's status. Many in the league thought that when the New England Patriots didn't use their franchise player tag on Moss, it was a sign that the team had worked out a deal to retain...
By Mark Maske | March 1, 2008; 08:26 AM ET | Comments (1)
Bruschi Stays With Patriots
Linebacker Tedy Bruschi has decided against retirement and testing free agency. Bruschi has agreed to a contract to remain with the New England Patriots, an NFL source said. Bruschi's return means that the Patriots can pair him with fellow holdovers Mike Vrabel and Adalius Thomas at linebacker. The Patriots...
By Mark Maske | February 28, 2008; 08:31 PM ET | Email a Comment
Patriots Reportedly Releasing R. Colvin
The New England Patriots will have to remake their linebacking corps. The Boston Globe is reporting on its Web site that the team is expected to release linebacker Rosevelt Colvin today. The move will save the Patriots $5.5 million in salary cap room, the Globe reports. With Tedy Bruschi...
By Mark Maske | February 26, 2008; 04:59 PM ET | Email a Comment
Patriots Hire Capers
INDIANAPOLIS--The New England Patriots added Dom Capers to their coaching staff. The Patriots announced that they'd hired Capers, most recently the Miami Dolphins' defensive coordinator, as a special assistant working with their secondary. Capers is the former head coach of the Carolina Panthers and Houston Texans. The Patriots also...
By Mark Maske | February 22, 2008; 10:43 AM ET | Comments (102)
R. Moss Untagged
INDIANAPOLIS--The New England Patriots did not use their franchise player tag on wide receiver Randy Moss, leaving him eligible for unrestricted free agency on Feb. 29. The Patriots still can re-sign Moss but are restricted from doing so before Feb. 29. Moss agreed to a reworked contract to be...
By Mark Maske | February 21, 2008; 04:53 PM ET | Comments (2)
Goodell Briefs Competition Committee on SpyGate
INDIANAPOLIS--Commissioner Roger Goodell and league attorney Jeff Pash briefed members of the NFL's competition committee here today on the SpyGate investigation. Goodell and Pash explained the league's investigation of the videotaping incident involving the New England Patriots in the opening week of the just-completed season. They told committee members...
By Mark Maske | February 21, 2008; 03:09 PM ET | Email a Comment
Z. Thomas Visits Patriots But Doesn't Sign, With Saints and Perhaps Cowboys Up Next
Free agent linebacker Zach Thomas, just cut by the Miami Dolphins, visited the New England Patriots on Monday and received a contract offer. It wasn't enough, however, to convince Thomas to sign the deal and end his free agent tour. He's scheduled to visit the New Orleans Saints today...
By Mark Maske | February 19, 2008; 10:43 AM ET | Email a Comment
Belichick Defends Early Exit, Says He's Moving On to Preparations for Next Season
New England Patriots Coach Bill Belichick defended his decision to leave the field with a second to play in Sunday's Super Bowl loss to the New York Giants. During a conference call with reporters Tuesday, Belichick cited the confusion at the moment, in which people from both sidelines ran...
By Mark Maske | February 6, 2008; 08:43 AM ET | Comments (4)
Former Patriots Video Assistant Now Is Central Figure In "SpyGate" Investigation
PHOENIX--Members of the NFL's security department are attempting to arrange a meeting with former New England Patriots video assistant Matt Walsh, who has hinted to several news organizations that he has information pertinent to the "SpyGate" case. Walsh now lives in Hawaii but it's unclear if NFL Commissioner Roger...
By Mark Maske | February 4, 2008; 08:00 PM ET | Comments (2)
Quick Halftime Thoughts
GLENDALE, Ariz.--The Giants certainly have their chance. They're getting to Tom Brady. They're shutting down Randy Moss. The Patriots simply can't block Justin Tuck. But when you're facing the Patriots, you have to turn your opportunities into points. The Giants have had their chances and only have three points...
By Mark Maske | February 3, 2008; 08:16 PM ET | Comments (96)
Pope on Giants' Inactive List
GLENDALE, Ariz.--Defensive back Geoffrey Pope, formerly of Howard University, is on the New York Giants' inactive list for the game. As recently as midweek, he'd been hoping to be on the active list for the game. Veteran wide receiver Troy Brown is on the New England Patriots' inactive list....
By Mark Maske | February 3, 2008; 05:32 PM ET | Email a Comment
SpyGate Won't Go Away
GLENDALE, Ariz.--Even in the final hours before the New England Patriots play the New York Giants in the Super Bowl, "SpyGate" won't go away. Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) said he would speak to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell as soon as Monday about concerns over the league's handling of the...
By Mark Maske | February 3, 2008; 04:52 PM ET | Email a Comment
Goodell Defends Decision to Destroy SpyGate Tapes
PHOENIX--NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell today defended his decision to have the league destroy six videotapes handed over by the New England Patriots after the team's spying scandal in September. "I think it was the appropriate thing to do," Goodell said at the commissioner's annual state of the league news...
By Mark Maske | February 1, 2008; 04:54 PM ET | Comments (6)
Burress Misses Another Practice, This Time Because of Sore Knee
PHOENIX--Wide receiver Plaxico Burress missed the New York Giants' practice Thursday for a second straight day, this time because of a sore left knee. Burress missed Wednesday's practice because of the ailing right ankle that plagued him all season. For the New England Patriots, quarterback Tom Brady participated in...
By Mark Maske | February 1, 2008; 10:22 AM ET | Email a Comment
Moss Says Packers Said "Wrong Things" to Him
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--The Green Bay Packers made a bid to try to trade for Randy Moss in the offseason before the New England Patriots obtained the wide receiver from the Oakland Raiders. Moss said today he was glad he didn't end up in Green Bay because Packers officials were saying...
By Mark Maske | January 30, 2008; 06:55 PM ET | Comments (1)
McDaniels Might Agree to Redskins' Interview If Asked
GLENDALE, Ariz.--New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels isn't ruling out the possibility of agreeing to interview for the Washington Redskins' head coaching job, if asked, after the Super Bowl. McDaniels, at the tender age of 31, oversaw a New England offense that set a single-season NFL scoring record...
By Mark Maske | January 29, 2008; 02:52 PM ET | Comments (11)
Brady Practices
PHOENIX--Quarterback Tom Brady participated in the New England Patriots' practice today. The practice wasn't in full pads but it marked Brady's return after he sat out two practices last week in Foxborough, Mass. He hurt his right ankle in the AFC title game. "He was out there like everybody...
By Mark Maske | January 28, 2008; 06:40 PM ET | Email a Comment
Moss Remains With Patriots as Temporary Restraining Order Against Him Extended
PHOENIX--Wide receiver Randy Moss remained in the Phoenix area with the New England Patriots and did not attend a scheduled hearing in Florida related to a woman's battery allegation against him. Moss was not required to attend the hearing. Lawyers for Moss and the woman agreed to extend a...
By Mark Maske | January 28, 2008; 03:47 PM ET | Comments (3)
Patriots Arrive and Brady Says He's Ready to Go
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz.--The New England Patriots were the first team to arrive at the Super Bowl site and quarterback Tom Brady said his sprained right ankle won't keep him from playing next weekend. "It's feeling good," Brady said tonight. "I'll be ready to go. I think we need three great...
By Mark Maske | January 27, 2008; 10:33 PM ET | Email a Comment
Brady Again Unseen in Foxborough
For a second straight day, quarterback Tom Brady was absent from the portion of the New England Patriots' practice in Foxborough, Mass., that was open to reporters. Coach Bill Belichick again declined to give specifics about Brady's status. Brady reportedly is suffering from a mild high ankle sprain. He...
By Mark Maske | January 25, 2008; 02:02 PM ET | Comments (5)
Waiting for Super Bowl Assistants Could Be Risky Strategy
New York Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo and New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels are the latest targets of the Washington Redskins' coaching search. They are the new hot assistant coaches in the league and the Redskins apparently have decided to wait until after the Super Bowl to...
By Mark Maske | January 25, 2008; 09:52 AM ET | Comments (71)
Brady Misses Practice?
Quarterback Tom Brady wasn't on the field for the portion of the New England Patriots' practice that was open to reporters today in Foxborough, Mass. The Patriots gave no indication about whether Brady participated in the other portion of the practice, and Coach Tom Belichick declined to comment on...
By Mark Maske | January 24, 2008; 04:09 PM ET | Comments (2)
Rapid Recovery for Brady's Injured Foot?
Maybe Tom Brady isn't so injured, after all. Now there are photos surfacing of Brady out of the town in New York on Monday night with girlfriend Gisele Bundchen minus the protective boot on his right foot. Earlier Monday, the New England Patriots' quarterback had been photographed near Bundchen's...
By Mark Maske | January 22, 2008; 01:54 PM ET | Comments (4)
Brady Has Injured Foot But is Vowing to Play in Super Bowl
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was photographed in New York on Monday wearing a protective boot on his right foot. Brady told a Boston radio station that he indeed is hurt but will be ready to play in the Super Bowl against the New York Giants a week...
By Mark Maske | January 22, 2008; 08:28 AM ET | Comments (2)
Gates Playing, Too
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.--The inactive lists for the AFC title game are out. Neither tight end Antonio Gates nor quarterback Philip Rivers is on the San Diego Chargers' inactive list. That means that Gates will play for a second straight week with a sprained toe. Rivers is scheduled to start the...
By Mark Maske | January 20, 2008; 02:24 PM ET | Email a Comment
Rivers Scheduled to Start
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.--Philip Rivers indeed is scheduled to start today's AFC championship game at quarterback for the San Diego Chargers. Rivers hurt his right knee during last Sunday's win at Indianapolis and barely practiced during the week. The Chargers' concern is how long Rivers will be able to play. Backup...
By Mark Maske | January 20, 2008; 01:58 PM ET | Email a Comment
Even if Rivers Starts, Can He Finish?
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.--The San Diego Chargers still haven't made a final decision about the playing status of quarterback Philip Rivers for today's AFC title game at Gillette Stadium. One person familiar with the Chargers' thinking just said his guess is that Rivers will convince the team's coaches to allow him...
By Mark Maske | January 20, 2008; 12:07 PM ET | Email a Comment
Windy Conditions Favor Chargers
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.--The wind is blowing hard on this blustery New England day. That might give the Chargers a sliver of hope in today's AFC title game. A really, really windy day could affect the Patriots' passing game. If it becomes a game that's all about running the ball, the...
By Mark Maske | January 20, 2008; 11:30 AM ET | Email a Comment
Another Good Day for the Patriots
INDIANAPOLIS--Today's biggest winner? Not the San Diego Chargers. Not the New York Giants. The New England Patriots. The Indianapolis Colts match up relatively well with the Patriots and could have challenged them in next weekend's AFC title game. But they won't get the chance after being upset today by...
By Mark Maske | January 13, 2008; 09:34 PM ET | Comments (4)
Jaguars Take Away Moss, But Picked Apart by Brady and Other Patriots Receivers
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.--For the first time this season, a New England Patriots opponent put two or three defenders around wide receiver Randy Moss on practically every play. The Jacksonville Jaguars dared Patriots quarterback Tom Brady to find another way to beat them. He did. Moss had only one catch but...
By Mark Maske | January 13, 2008; 12:30 AM ET | Comments (4)
Falcons Choose Patriots Executive as General Manager
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.--The Atlanta Falcons have chosen New England Patriots executive Tom Dimitroff as their general manager. Dimitroff is the Patriots' director of college scouting. He replaces Rich McKay, who was retained by Falcons owner Arthur Blank as the team's president but was told he would not keep his GM...
By Mark Maske | January 12, 2008; 07:23 PM ET | Email a Comment
Brady Named MVP By Associated Press
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was chosen the NFL most valuable player by the Associated Press. He received 49 of 50 votes in balloting by media members. Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre received the other vote. Brady threw 50 touchdown passes, an NFL single-season record, and had...
By Mark Maske | January 5, 2008; 09:00 PM ET | Comments (2)
Wilfork Fined $15,000
The NFL fined New England Patriots defensive tackle Vince Wilfork $15,000 for poking his finger through the facemask of New York Giants tailback Brandon Jacobs during the regular season finale last Saturday night at Giants Stadium. Officials did not see the incident and Wilfork was not penalized during the...
By Mark Maske | January 4, 2008; 04:41 PM ET | Comments (5)
Young Offensive Coordinator McDaniels Declining Head Coaching Interviews, Will Stay With Patriots
Josh McDaniels, the New England Patriots' 31-year-old offensive coordinator, has pulled himself out of consideration for head coaching vacancies with other teams. McDaniels was drawing interest after overseeing the Patriots' record-setting offense. The Baltimore Ravens and Atlanta Falcons reportedly were interested in interviewing him. But McDaniels declined the interviews....
By Mark Maske | January 4, 2008; 09:30 AM ET | Comments (2)
Belichick Voted AP Coach of Year
Bill Belichick indeed was named the NFL coach of the year by the AP. He received 29 of 50 votes in balloting by media members. The Green Bay Packers' Mike McCarthy finished second with 15 votes. The Dallas Cowboys' Wade Phillips and the Jacksonville Jaguars' Jack Del Rio received...
By Mark Maske | January 3, 2008; 02:39 PM ET | Comments (38)
Belichick Reportedly to Prevail in AP Coach of Year Balloting
The Boston Herald polled 41 of the 50 media members with votes for the Associated Press's NFL coach of the year award and reported that the New England Patriots' perfect regular season will earn Bill Belichick the honor. The Herald reported that 25 of the 41 said they voted...
By Mark Maske | January 3, 2008; 01:20 PM ET | Email a Comment
Coughlin's Gamble Mostly Pays Off, But Giants Learn the Game's Only Beginning When You Get a Late Lead on the Patriots
Some quick thoughts on Patriots-Giants on the train ride home from New York... * It was one of the best games of the season, thanks to the decision by Giants Coach Tom Coughlin to play his regulars the whole way. Coughlin's gamble paid off. Yes, the Giants lost and...
By Mark Maske | December 30, 2007; 12:33 PM ET | Comments (1)
How Will Giants Approach Patriots Game?
The New England Patriots have made it clear that they're not planning to ease off the accelerator and rest key starters in Saturday night's regular season finale against the New York Giants at Giants Stadium just because they've clinched home field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs. The question now...
By Mark Maske | December 26, 2007; 09:53 AM ET | Comments (33)
Belichick Doesn't Sound Like He Plans to Sit Down Key Patriots Starters
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.--Anyone who thought the New England Patriots' bid for an unbeaten season might be derailed by Coach Bill Belichick sitting down quarterback Tom Brady, wide receiver Randy Moss and other key starters to avoid injuries in the final few regular season games might want to reconsider. Belichick was...
By Mark Maske | December 17, 2007; 10:20 AM ET | Comments (2)
More Jets-Patriots Intrigue
Naturally, there is more intrigue between the New York Jets and New England Patriots as they ready to play Sunday at Gillette Stadium. Jets Coach Eric Mangini told reporters today that the club videotaped last season's playoff game against the Patriots from behind both end zones after being given...
By Mark Maske | December 12, 2007; 10:51 PM ET | Email a Comment
Patriots Re-Establish Their Dominance
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.--Maybe everyone now has learned the lesson: Just leave the New England Patriots alone. The Patriots hadn't played well in their last two games. They'd had to engineer fourth-quarter comebacks in three of their past four games. But young Pittsburgh Steelers safety Anthony Smith nevertheless felt the need...
By Mark Maske | December 10, 2007; 10:28 AM ET | Comments (1)
Steeler's Guarantee Misguided
What, exactly, was Anthony Smith thinking? The young safety for the Pittsburgh Steelers felt the need to come out and publicly guarantee a victory when his teams plays the New England Patriots on Sunday in Foxborough, Mass. Why? The Patriots are unbeaten but have had some vulnerabilities on display...
By Mark Maske | December 8, 2007; 10:00 AM ET | Comments (3)
Patriots Go From Being Most Dominant Team in League History to Luckiest
BALTIMORE--The New England Patriots had better be very, very good the rest of the way if they're going to complete an unbeaten season. Because they probably exhausted all the luck at their disposal here Monday night. Three times on the game's decisive drive, the Patriots appeared to fail on...
By Mark Maske | December 4, 2007; 09:38 AM ET | Comments (5)
Ravens Probably Don't Have Enough Offensive Firepower to Follow Eagles' Plan Against Patriots
Eight days ago, the Philadelphia Eagles provided the blueprint for how to beat the New England Patriots. They didn't do it, but they suffered a near-miss loss in Foxborough, Mass., behind backup quarterback A.J. Feeley that showed how it can be done. They threw the ball early and often....
By Mark Maske | December 3, 2007; 09:45 AM ET | Comments (2)
Patriots Place Colvin on IR, Activate T. Brown
The New England Patriots placed linebacker Rosevelt Colvin on the injured reserve list, ending his season. Colvin was hurt during Sunday night's triumph over the Philadelphia Eagles, although the nature of his injury was not clear. The Patriots also activated veteran wide receiver Troy Brown from the physically unable...
By Mark Maske | November 28, 2007; 10:25 AM ET | Comments (1)
Feeley, Eagles Show It Might Not Be So Easy for Patriots, After All
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.--It remains to be seen if the Philadelphia Eagles have a quarterback controversy on their hands, or even a quarterback issue. But backup A.J. Feeley, filling in because of Donovan McNabb's ankle and thumb injuries, nearly beat the team here Sunday night that many expect to go unbeaten...
By Mark Maske | November 26, 2007; 12:51 AM ET | Comments (26)
Patriots Clinch Division Title
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.--The New England Patriots clinched the AFC East title today even before taking the field for tonight's game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Gillette Stadium. The Buffalo Bills' loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars this afternoon ensured the Patriots of their fifth straight division crown. They become the first...
By Mark Maske | November 25, 2007; 07:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Brady, Moss Are Just Making It Look Too Easy
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y.--Earlier in the day, Terrell Owens had four touchdown catches for the Dallas Cowboys. Randy Moss noticed. "Yeah," Moss said in the New England Patriots' locker room here late Sunday night, "I saw the real [number] 81." So Moss, dubbed the "other" No. 81 by Owens earlier...
By Mark Maske | November 19, 2007; 10:21 AM ET | Comments (4)
The Scandal That Wasn't
There were reports throughout the day Monday that the New England Patriots had complained to the league after Sunday's victory in Indianapolis that the Colts were illegally piping artificial crowd noise through speakers at the RCA Dome during the game. It's an accusation that has been made in the...
By Mark Maske | November 6, 2007; 10:34 AM ET | Comments (1)
Patriots-Bills Flexed to Prime Time on Nov. 18
NBC is using its first flexible-scheduling move of the season to try to cash in on the success of the New England Patriots. The network and the league announced today that the Patriots-Buffalo Bills game on Nov. 18 has been moved to the prime-time slot at 8:15 p.m....
By Mark Maske | November 5, 2007; 05:00 PM ET | Email a Comment
Get Ready for the Patriots to Be 17-0 When They Next Face the Colts
INDIANAPOLIS--If you still don't think it's likely that the New England Patriots will be 17-0 when they next face the Indianapolis Colts in the AFC championship game in January in Foxborough, Mass., perhaps you missed Sunday's proceedings at the RCA Dome. The Patriots' 24-20 triumph over the Colts brought...
By Mark Maske | November 5, 2007; 10:32 AM ET | Comments (13)
Colts Have Harrison, Ugoh on Inactive List
INDIANAPOLIS--The Indianapolis Colts will be at far from full strength when they face the New England Patriots today. The Colts have wide receiver Marvin Harrison and rookie left tackle Tony Ugoh on their inactive list for the game. Harrison will be sidelined for the third time in four games...
By Mark Maske | November 4, 2007; 03:41 PM ET | Comments (1)
Could C. Dillon Return to Patriots?
INDIANAPOLIS--There is some talk around the New England Patriots that retired tailback Corey Dillon could return to the team at some point this season. Dillon split the ball-carrying duties last season with Laurence Maroney, then retired in the offseason. He has drawn interest this season from several teams, including...
By Mark Maske | November 4, 2007; 02:30 PM ET | Email a Comment
Patriots Place Sammy Morris on IR List
The New England Patriots placed backup tailback and leading rusher Sammy Morris on the injured reserve list, ending his season. Morris has been sidelined by what the Patriots have called a chest injury but usual starter Laurence Maroney has returned to the lineup....
By Mark Maske | November 2, 2007; 06:43 PM ET | Email a Comment
Dungy Stands Ground on Patriots Comments
Even as his team readies to face the New England Patriots on Sunday, Indianapolis Colts Coach Tony Dungy isn't taking back comments that he made just after the Patriots were punished by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell for using videotaping equipment to steal the signals of the New York Jets...
By Mark Maske | November 1, 2007; 09:49 AM ET | Comments (6)
Patriots' Thoughts Quickly Turn to Colts
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.--Can any team in the league stay competitive in a game with the New England Patriots? It's about time to find out. With little reason to dwell on today's 52-7 drubbing of the Washington Redskins at Gillette Stadium, the Patriots' focus immediately turned to next Sunday's showdown with...
By Mark Maske | October 28, 2007; 09:40 PM ET | Comments (6)
Patriots Activate Seymour
The New England Patriots activated defensive end Richard Seymour today, making him eligible to play Sunday against the Washington Redskins in Foxborough, Mass. Seymour had been on the physically unable to perform list after undergoing offseason knee surgery. He began practicing this week and the Patriots had three weeks...
By Mark Maske | October 27, 2007; 09:56 PM ET | Email a Comment
Seymour Practices With Patriots
Defensive lineman Richard Seymour practiced for the first time this season with the New England Patriots. Seymour has been on the physically unable to perform list after undergoing offseason knee surgery. The Patriots now have three weeks to activate Seymour or place him on the injured reserve list, ending...
By Mark Maske | October 24, 2007; 04:09 PM ET | Email a Comment
Tailback Shuffle for Patriots
The New England Patriots might switch tailbacks this week. Usual starter Laurence Maroney has missed three games because of a groin injury but might be ready to return to the lineup. That's good timing for the Patriots since fill-in starter Sammy Morris suffered a chest injury during Sunday's victory...
By Mark Maske | October 17, 2007; 10:26 AM ET | Email a Comment
Can Anyone Match Up With the Patriots?
IRVING, Tex.--Okay, so maybe the New England Patriots can go unbeaten, after all. There is talk just about every NFL season about whether a team can go undefeated and join the 1972 Miami Dolphins. And usually, such talk is silly. The season is just too long and too grueling....
By Mark Maske | October 14, 2007; 09:54 PM ET | Comments (6)
Let the Hype Begin for Patriots-Cowboys Game
The NFL's game of the year (so far) nearly was ruined Monday night, but escaped intact. Barely. The Dallas Cowboys scored nine points in the final 20 seconds, the last three of them on a 53-yard field goal by kicker Nick Folk after they recovered an onside kick, to...
By Mark Maske | October 9, 2007; 09:51 AM ET | Comments (13)
Patriots Getting Back R. Harrison
As if the New England Patriots need any more help, they're getting back safety Rodney Harrison this week. Harrison has completed a four-game suspension by the NFL for acknowledging to league officials that he used a performance-enhancing substance, reportedly human growth hormone. The Patriots have been the league's most...
By Mark Maske | October 3, 2007; 10:28 AM ET | Email a Comment
Wilfork Appealing Fine for Hit on Losman
New England Patriots defensive tackle Vince Wilfork told a Boston radio station that he's appealing his $12,500 fine for a low hit that injured Buffalo Bills quarterback J.P. Losman. Wilfork maintains that he was pushed into Losman by a Bills blocker. Losman suffered a sprained knee on the hit...
By Mark Maske | October 3, 2007; 10:22 AM ET | Email a Comment
Wilfork Fined for Hit That Injured Losman
The NFL fined New England Patriots defensive tackle Vince Wilfork $12,500 for a low hit last weekend that injured Buffalo Bills quarterback J.P. Losman. Wilfork was penalized on the play. Losman suffered a sprained knee and is to miss at least two weeks. Rookie Trent Edwards has taken over...
By Mark Maske | September 28, 2007; 10:20 AM ET | Email a Comment
Patriots Case Appears Closed
NFL officials are saying they don't expect any further penalties against the New England Patriots for using videotaping equipment to steal opponents' play signals. The league announced Thursday that the Patriots had complied with the NFL's request to hand over all materials related to their videotaping program, and league...
By Mark Maske | September 21, 2007; 10:47 AM ET | Email a Comment
T.O. Fined for Touchdown Celebration Inspired By Spying Scandal
The NFL truly has no sense of humor. The league fined Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Terrell Owens $7,500 for his touchdown celebration Sunday that made reference to the spying scandal involving the New England Patriots. After scoring a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins, Owens stood by the goal post...
By Mark Maske | September 19, 2007; 09:29 PM ET | Comments (1)
Some of Backlash for Spying Scandal Aimed at Mangini?
One of the curious after-effects of the New England Patriots' spying scandal is that part of the backlash within the league seems to be aimed at New York Jets Coach Eric Mangini. Several people within the league said in recent days that there is anger within the NFL coaching...
By Mark Maske | September 19, 2007; 06:48 AM ET | Comments (12)
League Investigating Leak of Patriots' Spy Tape
The league office is conducting an internal investigation to try to determine how a copy of the New England Patriots' spying video was leaked to the Fox television network, an NFL official said. A copy of the tape was aired by Fox on Sunday, showing the New York Jets...
By Mark Maske | September 18, 2007; 09:56 PM ET | Email a Comment
A Circle-the-Wagons Night for the Patriots
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.--When it was over, linebacker Tedy Bruschi and quarterback Tom Brady hugged Coach Bill Belichick on the New England Patriots' sideline. The fans at Gillette Stadium cheered Belichick wildly as he exited the field. Patriots owner Robert Kraft gave Belichick a game ball and players offered testimonials to...
By Mark Maske | September 17, 2007; 01:04 AM ET | Comments (8)
Goodell Defends Patriots Sanctions
FOXBOROUGH, Mass.--NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, criticized by some observers for failing to suspend New England Patriots Coach Bill Belichick, defended the sanctions that he imposed on Belichick and the Patriots during an interview tonight on NBC. Goodell called the potential loss of a first-round draft choice "unprecedented" and "terribly...
By Mark Maske | September 16, 2007; 10:03 PM ET | Comments (5)
Is It Unthinkable that Belichick, Patriots Could Part Ways After This Season?
Is it totally, completely unthinkable that this could be Bill Belichick's final season as coach of the New England Patriots even if he wins another Super Bowl title? Perhaps not. Belichick is the finest coach of his era, with three Super Bowl triumphs with the Patriots. He has been...
By Mark Maske | September 14, 2007; 12:21 PM ET | Comments (5)
Belichick Responds
New England Patriots Coach Bill Belichick issued a written statement tonight after being penalized by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell for last weekend's spying incident. Belichick, who discussed the incident with Goodell earlier in the week, said in the statement that he accepted "full responsibility" for the incident but blamed...
By Mark Maske | September 13, 2007; 11:18 PM ET | Comments (4)
Belichick Fined $500,000, Patriots Stripped of At Least One Draft Pick
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell fined New England Patriots Coach Bill Belichick $500,000 and stripped the team of at least one draft pick, possibly its first-round selection next spring, for using videotaping equipment to try to steal the New York Jets' play signals during a game last Sunday. The Patriots...
By Mark Maske | September 13, 2007; 09:19 PM ET | Comments (2)
Eagles Wonder About Super Bowl Loss to Patriots
PHILADELPHIA--With the New England Patriots accused of using videotaping equipment to steal defensive play signals from the New York Jets last weekend, some Philadelphia Eagles players said today they wonder if they might have been cheated out of a Super Bowl title three seasons ago. The Eagles lost the...
By Mark Maske | September 13, 2007; 04:58 PM ET | Comments (6)
Belichick Issues Apology for Spying Incident
New England Patriots Coach Bill Belichick issued an apology today for the incident in which his team is accused of improperly stealing signals by New York Jets coaches during a game last weekend at Giants Stadium. Belichick also indicated that he'd spoken to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell this week...
By Mark Maske | September 12, 2007; 01:49 PM ET | Email a Comment
Goodell Prepared to Strip Patriots of Draft Picks
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell is prepared to strip draft picks from the New England Patriots as punishment for Sunday's incident in which they allegedly used videotaping equipment to steal the play signals of the New York Jets, two sources familiar with the league's investigation into the matter said today....
By Mark Maske | September 11, 2007; 07:20 PM ET | Comments (3)
League Investigating Charge that Patriots Improperly Monitored Jets' Play Signals
NFL officials are investigating an incident in which a New England Patriots employee who was on the field during Sunday's triumph over the New York Jets at Giants Stadium was accused of videotaping Jets coaches on their sideline signaling play calls to players on the field, a league source...
By Mark Maske | September 10, 2007; 03:24 PM ET | Comments (5)
Patriots Cut R. Caldwell
The New England Patriots released wide receiver Reche Caldwell. Caldwell was the club's leading receiver last season. But the Patriots spent the offseason bolstering the position by signing Donte' Stallworth and Kelley Washington as free agents and trading for Randy Moss and Wes Welker. Those four, plus Jabar Gaffney,...
By Mark Maske | September 3, 2007; 09:35 PM ET | Email a Comment
Shorthanded Patriots Will Face Some Early Tests
Many NFL observers already have all but awarded this season's Super Bowl to the New England Patriots. It is a distinct possibility, but there could be some early bumps in the road. The Patriots will play the first month of the season without two key defensive players, safety Rodney...
By Mark Maske | September 2, 2007; 06:54 PM ET | Email a Comment
R. Harrison Suspended After Admitting HGH Use
The NFL suspended New England Patriots veteran safety Rodney Harrison for four games after he admitted to league officials that he used human growth hormone, two sources familiar with the case said tonight. People familiar with the league's drug-testing program said they believed that Harrison is the first NFL...
By Mark Maske | August 31, 2007; 11:05 PM ET | Email a Comment
Patriots Reportedly Make No-Franchise Concession to Samuel
Cornerback Asante Samuel apparently secured a concession from the New England Patriots before signing his one-year contract this week. The Boston Globe reported that the Patriots agreed not to use their franchise player tag on Samuel again next offseason if he plays a certain percentage of the team's defensive...
By Mark Maske | August 30, 2007; 09:28 AM ET | Email a Comment
Patriots Have A. Samuel Back in Fold
Cornerback Asante Samuel rejoined the New England Patriots today. He was to sign a one-year, $7.79 million contract and participate in the team's practice. Samuel refused to report to training camp after being named the Patriots' franchise player in the offseason. He failed in his attempt to get the...
By Mark Maske | August 27, 2007; 10:10 AM ET | Email a Comment
A. Samuel Could Rejoin Patriots Today
Boston-area media outlets are speculating that cornerback Asante Samuel could rejoin the New England Patriots as soon as today. Samuel refused to report to training camp after being named the Patriots' franchise player during the offseason. But the Patriots refused to negotiate the sort of lucrative longterm contract that...
By Mark Maske | August 27, 2007; 08:00 AM ET | Email a Comment
A. Samuel Reportedly Close to Rejoining Patriots
Cornerback Asante Samuel reportedly is close to rejoining the New England Patriots. According to several reports, Samuel likely will report to the Patriots within the next week. He refused to report to training camp after being named the team's franchise player during the offseason. Samuel was seeking a longterm...
By Mark Maske | August 24, 2007; 08:12 AM ET | Comments (1)
Brady Absent from Patriots for Birth of Son
Quarterback Tom Brady missed the New England Patriots' practice Wednesday to fly to Los Angeles for the birth of his first child. Brady's former girlfriend, actress Bridget Moynahan, gave birth to a boy. Moynahan and the baby were said by Moynahan's publicist to be doing fine. It's unclear when...
By Mark Maske | August 23, 2007; 10:30 AM ET | Comments (1)
T. Warren Signs Extension With Patriots
The New England Patriots signed defensive end Ty Warren to a five-year contract extension that runs through the 2011 season. A league source confirmed a report that the deal is worth $36 million, including $17.5 million in guaranteed money....
By Mark Maske | August 17, 2007; 09:16 AM ET | Comments (1)
Samuel a No-Show at Patriots' Camp
Cornerback Asante Samuel was absent from the New England Patriots' training camp as it got under way today. Samuel is unsigned after being named the team's franchise player in February. He is seeking a lucrative longterm deal instead of the one-year, $7.79 million contract that he would have if...
By Mark Maske | July 27, 2007; 06:25 PM ET | Comments (1)
Tragedy Strikes Again as M. Hill Becomes Third Active NFL Player to Die This Offseason
For the third time this offseason, an active NFL player has died. Authorities in New Orleans on Monday identified a body pulled from Lake Pontchartrain as that of New England Patriots defensive end Marquise Hill. There had been a search for Hill being conducted since he and a female...
By Mark Maske | May 29, 2007; 10:53 AM ET | Comments (2)
Not the Same Old Patriots, But the Team to Beat
Team-By-Team Offseason Roundup New England Patriots Players Released: Corey Dillon, RB Don Davis, S (retired) Free Agents Lost: Tully Banta-Cain, LB Daniel Graham, TE Traded For: Wes Welker, WR Randy Moss, WR Free Agents Re-Signed: Heath Evans, FB Larry Izzo, LB Junior Seau, LB Free Agents Added: Adalius Thomas,...
By Mark Maske | May 23, 2007; 04:10 PM ET | Comments (2)
Patriots Re-Sign Seau
The New England Patriots re-signed free agent linebacker Junior Seau. Seau, 38, played for the Patriots last season on the heels of announcing his retirement. He had his season cut short by a broken arm suffered in November....
By Mark Maske | May 21, 2007; 04:39 PM ET | Comments (1)
Patriots' Moves Make Them Team to Beat
The New England Patriots will enter next season as the league's clear-cut Super Bowl favorite. The Patriots already had a good team, reaching the AFC title game last season even after leaving themselves shorthanded at wide receiver with the September trade of holdout Deion Branch to the Seattle Seahawks....
By Mark Maske | May 1, 2007; 10:11 AM ET | Comments (6)
Patriots Land R. Moss
The New England traded a fourth-round pick today to the Oakland Raiders for wide receiver Randy Moss. The Raiders had shopped Moss around the league for much of the offseason, and the Patriots and Green Bay Packers emerged as the leading bidders. It was thought that the Raiders were...
By Mark Maske | April 29, 2007; 02:00 PM ET | Comments (2)
Union Wins Case to Make Sauerbrun Free Agent
The NFL Players Association won a case before league special master Stephen Burbank to make punter Todd Sauerbrun a free agent. The former Pro Bowl selection likely will sign with the Denver Broncos. Sauerbrun had signed a contract with the Broncos, but the New England Patriots had exercised their...
By Mark Maske | April 18, 2007; 06:37 PM ET | Email a Comment
Patriots' Moves Could Make Them Team to Beat in AFC
The New England Patriots seem to have inched ahead of the Indianapolis Colts and San Diego Chargers as the favorite in the AFC entering next season. The Patriots had a near-miss loss to the Colts in last season's AFC title game after upsetting the Chargers in San Diego in...
By Mark Maske | April 18, 2007; 10:41 AM ET | Comments (5)
T. James Agrees to Deal With Patriots
Free agent cornerback Tory James agreed to a one-year contract with the New England Patriots. James spent the past four seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals, totaling 21 interceptions in that time. He has 39 interceptions in 11 NFL seasons with the Denver Broncos, Oakland Raiders and Bengals. The addition...
By Mark Maske | April 17, 2007; 09:14 PM ET | Email a Comment
Bledsoe Retires
Quarterback Drew Bledsoe announced his retirement after 14 NFL seasons. Bledsoe, 35, lost the Dallas Cowboys' starting job to Tony Romo last season. The Cowboys released Bledsoe and signed Brad Johnson to replace him as Romo's backup. Bledsoe threw for 44,611 yards and 251 touchdowns for the New England...
By Mark Maske | April 12, 2007; 10:19 AM ET | Comments (1)
Patriots Keep Sauerbrun By Matching Broncos' Offer
The New England Patriots retained former Pro Bowl punter Todd Sauerbrun by matching the Denver Broncos' contract offer to him. Sauerbrun signed a one-year deal worth as much as $1.4 million with the Broncos last week. But when he signed with the Patriots last season, his contract gave them...
By Mark Maske | April 10, 2007; 09:46 AM ET | Email a Comment
A. Samuel, Patriots In Contract Staredown
Chicago Bears linebacker Lance Briggs isn't the only player league-wide who's talking about his disenchantment over being named his team's franchise player. New England Patriots cornerback Asante Samuel is grumbling as well. Samuel expressed his displeasure last week during an interview with the NFL Network. He said he'd like...
By Mark Maske | April 9, 2007; 10:13 AM ET | Email a Comment
Darryl Stingley Dies
Former New England Patriots wide receiver Darryl Stingley died in Chicago today, nearly 29 years after he was paralyzed during a preseason game against the Oakland Raiders. According to authorities, the 55-year-old Stingley was found unconscious in his home early this morning and later was pronounced dead at Northwestern...
By Mark Maske | April 5, 2007; 04:30 PM ET | Comments (1)