Bleacher Report - Articles by Aaron Dodge

Vince Wilfork Reports; Robert Kraft Confident about New Contract

Aaron Dodge — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:41:29 -0400

Ah, and the word "mandatory" still means something. At least to those who eat New England's humble pie.

Today Vince Wilfork reported to mandatory minicamps after sitting out of voluntary OTAs. Wilfork has been disgruntled about his current contract situation and his holdout has been well documented.

His willingness to join the team in camp could stem from a variety of other situations.

As the Boston Globe put it, "there is language that could apply to Wilfork's contract and allow the Patriots to pursue that money (up to $500,000) if he doesn't attend."

When you consider that he's set to make $2.2 million this season, it makes economic sense for the big man to make his mandatory appearances.

The move could also be a sign of contract progress. Patriots owner Robert Kraft was recently asked about the on-going saga.

“I’m a big fan of Vince Wilfork. Unfortunately, the business part of this game, this is something that goes on every year with most teams,” Kraft said. “We’re lucky to have Vince. I hope he’s here for the long-term. These things usually have a way of working themselves out. We’re privileged to have some pretty good football people making the decisions."

Not to take credit away from Wilfork's personal integrity in any way, but his appearance does say something about the team's attitude. For the Patriots a holdout and contract dispute has resulted in absences from only voluntary workouts. That says something about the team that has been constructed in New England and the players that buy into the humble mentality.

Guard Logan Mankins has also stated that he fully intends to participate in camp in the midst of his own contract talks. It's nice to have a locker room full of these players. It seems to be a rarity these days for a player to put the team first, and the Patriots should take great care not to take advantage of it. If these guys are willing to participate when discontented, the front office needs to get to work on their extensions.

Wilfork and Mankins have proven their worth on the field, and with their participation in mandatory workouts, they have proven they're Patriots at heart. It's good news to see both and now we just have to play the wait-and-see game.

Hopefully, today's revelations are a sign of contract signings to come.

Patience, Patriots Fans: The Schedule Could Be Deceiving

Aaron Dodge — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 18:55:52 -0400

Recently I was looking over the New England Patriots' 2009 home schedule. My dad and I want to get back to Gillette Stadium and prove we aren't bad luck.

Our first game was in 2005; San Diego came to town and won 41-17. That blowout broke the Patriots' home win streak at 21 games and ruined any fun there was to be had tailgating in the parking lot.

As I studied the schedule, a couple of things occurred to me. First, those headlines about the "toughest schedule" really mean something. Second, those headlines about the "toughest schedule" don't mean anything.

Allow me to explain.

Going by last year's attitude and knowing what we knew about the NFL after Week 17 and the playoffs, the Patriots' opponents look pretty good. The schedule includes such playoff teams as Atlanta, Baltimore, Tennessee, Miami, Indianapolis, and Carolina. Add in teams who were close to the postseason—New Orleans, the New York Jets, Tampa Bay—and things look bleak.

The problem with that thinking is that teams change, and they change a lot. One offseason is an eternity for a franchise when you consider how many opportunities they have to improve their club, as well as dismantle it.

In free agency and the draft alone, the Patriots seem to have effectively replaced their secondary. So it's not a great idea to translate a team's results last year into expectations for this season.

With neither argument really covering all the bases, we find ourselves in an interesting spot. This is where we have to mix both ideas and trudge the middle ground.

Last season the playoffs welcomed postseason veterans such as the Colts and Panthers. These teams have been very familiar with the playoffs in recent years and should be considered relatively likely to make it again.

We also saw postseason "rookies" like the Falcons, Titans, Dolphins, and Ravens in 2008. You could make the argument that these "rookie" teams have a strong chance of taking a big step forward or back. Their efforts may have been a streak of luck or just a small look at things to come—call them transition teams.

Then there are the teams that no one even thinks about—the Buffalo Bills and Houston Texans of the world. They show up on many other schedules and probably don't get a second thought.

Anyone remember the undefeated regular season in 2007 and that 4-7 team that gave the Patriots everything they could ever ask for? The cliché "Any Given Sunday" applies to these teams. Their records may have stunk last season, and heck, they may stink this year too, but don't count them out just because of it.

The bottom line is that the Patriots' schedule looks tough when you consider last season, but that's certainly not all that should be considered. Every single year a team or two comes from the bottom to make a grand emergence at the top. Likewise, a few teams will suffer epic meltdowns and miss the playoffs.

There's just no predicting with an entire schedule when you consider all that can change year to year. You can make wild stabs, and I'm sure we could all get a few right. If you can prove me wrong and predict the future, more power to you.

I just know that I sure as heck can’t predict how these teams are going to play this season just based off of their records a year ago. The initial shock of the Patriots' schedule is something to note, but I urge patience as we see how these teams turn out. It might not be as bad as it first seemed.

New England Patriots Roundup: Belichick Isn't "Wild" About New Formation

Aaron Dodge — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 22:39:54 -0400

Many firsts will occur for the Patriots in 2009.

Fred Taylor will dawn a non-Jaguars uniform, Tom Brady will take the helm for the first time in a year, and a completely upgraded secondary that includes Shawn Springs, Leigh Bodden, and Darius Butler, will patrol the defensive backfield among many other new sights.

One thing you can also expect to change, but not in the same way, is the Wildcat formation being installed in New England.

Recently I was granted the incredible opportunity as a fan to meet with coach Bill Belichick and personally ask him whatever my little heart desired (I'll cover this night later on in another article). This same opportunity was also afforded to about 40 others and they did an incredible job with their inquiries.

The question that stuck out in my mind was about the Wildcat. Belichick was plainly asked what the team was doing in preparation for defending and possibly operating the formation and whether he thought it would be a one-year wonder.

His response went along the lines of common belief. He admitted that there just isn't any way to know for sure until the season begins.

The coach also pointed to Miami's second-round draft pick, Pat White, as evidence that the system is long from dead for now. Belichick also expressed relative happiness that his team would have a few weeks of tape on the Dolphins before they have their first encounter.

Last season, they were the first and worst victims in Week Three.

Belichick then went on the other segment of the question; the part about what the Patriots are doing with it. He clearly stated that they had indeed spent time on the system and discussed how much time they felt comfortable spending on it despite not having a sense on how much it will be used.

The time that he said the team was spending on the formation was purely defensive time and he at no point made any mention of the offense running any version of it.

Take it for what it is, but it would seem to me that if the Patriots have any Wildcat plans for the upcoming season they either don't know about those plans yet themselves, or don't want anyone else to know about them yet.

I would venture to guess that the head coach was being as honest as he could with the fans there that night. I believe him when he said the only time they have invested is running defensive plays against it and scheming ways to stop it.

Obviously, if they're doing live drills, the offense will have to help out and run the system. So maybe that's where Julian Edelman comes in, but even that is doubtful.

The Patriots do not appear to have any interest in running the Wildcat in 2009. Julian Edelman appears to be running through camps as a wide receiver, and it appears as if the Wildcat formation hasn't died in the rest of the league.

Then again, these all may be moot points by Week One as each could easily go the opposite direction. Gotta love the NFL.

Rodney Harrison Retiring—Begins Broadcasting Gig

Aaron Dodge — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 18:54:18 -0400

The Boston Herald's John Tomase is reporting that Rodney Harrison plans to formally announce his retirement tomorrow. Tomase goes on to report that Harrison will also be introduced by NBC as the newest member of their broadcast team.

Harrison's retirement will cap a career which spanned 15 seasons split between the San Diego Chargers (1994-2002) and the New England Patriots (2003-2008). He was on two of the Patriots Super Bowl winning teams, even sealing the 24-21 victory against the Eagles in 2004 with one of his two interceptions of Donavan McNabb that night.

His career numbers are almost as impressive as his on-field legacy. He compiled 1,198 tackles, 30.5 sacks, 34 interceptions, 16 forced fumbles, and two scores. He is the only player in NFL history to have reached the achievement of 30 sacks and interceptions in his career.

Statistical production is one thing, but what Rodney did on the field was a whole other animal. Harrison was a feared hitter, non-stop talker, and natural leader. His history of bone jarring hits and verbal spats with players and officials along with his winning personality all point to the player that he was, a great one.

The aging safety dealt with a rash of injuries in the last leg of his career and fought through them all until his body had enough. He will now pursue a new career in the broadcasting industry with NBC and no one should be surprised to see him excel there as well—just don't get him angry.

Who the New England Patriots Could Have Had in the '08 Draft

Aaron Dodge — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 22:38:00 -0400

This is by far the most speculative article I've ever written here at the Bleacher Report, but the topic has really got me intruiged. I don't think I have to go into deep specifics about Cameragate as they are deeply engrained already. We all know the Patriots had a 1st round draft pick removed as a result among other fines. I do not intend to cause anything other than reflection much like looking back at a trade that didn't work. This slideshow will be a review of who the Patriots would have had the opportunity to select in between the 31st pick which was removed by the NFL and their 2nd Round pick, selection number 62 (CB Terrance Wheately). I could do this a number of different ways like on the basis of who could have helped them the most last year or this year, but I'm going a simpler route. I'll give you a top 10 of how I would rank the players selected in that time span that the Patriots could have had based off of their performances last year and not on New England's needs.

Begin Slideshow

Patriots' Vince Wilfork Holding Out?

Aaron Dodge — Thu, 28 May 2009 16:21:29 -0400

According to the Patriots Web site, "more than 80" of the 91 players currently on the roster were on the field for OTAs today. Notably missing was NT Vince Wilfork.

It has been suggested that he may be holding out of the team workouts in order to spark contract discussions with the club. Wilfork has announced several times on his Twitter account that he would not be attending.

The OTAs are voluntary, but we've seen contract disputes go far past this stage, into mini-camps, training camp, and beyond.

Wilfork agreed to a six-year deal when New England selected him with the 21st pick in the 2004 draft. His contract expires after this season, although he would not be an unrestricted free agent. His base salary this season is $2.2 million, which fails to accurately portray his immense importance to the team.

In the Patriots 3-4 system, Wilfork's position at NT is one of the most important. He has served as a run stuffer, occasional pass rusher, and overall menace in his career to this point and deserves a higher salary.

The problem is his ability and performance may have created a price tag too steep for the team's liking. Precedents have been set around the league, as other big name defensive linemen have signed lucrative deals.

Nose tackles Albert Haynesworth of the Redskins and Kris Jenkins of the Jets will be making on average $13 million and $6 million, respectively. Defensive linemen like Jared Allen of the Vikings and Tommie Harris of the Bears have also signed significant deals.

It's certainly not out of the realm of possibility that the Patriots and Wilfork can work something out and meet in the middle. New England's track record doesn't lend itself to handing out massive contracts often, though. Speculation will continue to run rampant until Wilfork decides his next move to either report and practice or to hold out.

At that point, the team will have no choice but to deal with the situation one way or another.

New England Inks ILB Paris Lenon

Aaron Dodge — Wed, 27 May 2009 15:48:19 -0400

A report from ESPN by Len Pasquarelli states that the New England Patriots and linebacker Paris Lenon have agreed on a deal. The deal is reportedly for one season.

Lenon was recently released by the Detroit Lions despite leading the team in tackles in 2008. He has racked up 100 or more tackles in his last two seasons for the Lions and started all 16 games in each season since signing with them in 2006.

Previously, Lenon had been with the Green Bay Packers who he signed with as an undrafted free agent in 2002. In his four seasons with the Packers, he rose to a starting caliber linebacker in 2005 after working his way up through special teams and reserve roles.

This linebacker projects to see significant playing time for the Patriots in a linebacking rotation that includes only one stable starter in Jerod Mayo. Tedy Bruschi arguably still has enough to play effectively, but will not be able to play three downs which causes a need for more depth.

The Patriots tried to address the depth issue at this position during the draft, but lost their third round pick Tyrone McKenzie to an ACL injury already. Some reports stated the team had interest in another recently released linebacker, Pisa Tinoisamoa. The move to sign Lenon makes that signing unlikely at this point.

Introducing New England Patriots' Fullback: Russ Hochstein

Aaron Dodge — Mon, 25 May 2009 19:58:34 -0400

The March second singing of Russ Hochstein earlier this year went relatively unnoticed by the masses in New England. As this years draft came and went the move has become a bit more important, however.

Hochstein now projects to have many important roles for the 2009 Patriots. The utility man has proven his value in the past playing on the offensive line when the injury bug has struck, as a blocking tight end in some packages, and even serving time as the long snapper on special teams.

The most intruiging position Hochstein has filled to date is the fullback position. He debuted there in the shelling of the Arizona Cardinals late last season.

Faced with weather conditions that included non-stop snow for most of the day the Patriots started their late December game in the power, or "I", formation. With Matt Cassel under center Dan Koppen and running back Sammy Morris behind them there wasn't a thing awkward about the setup—minus the 6'4 305-pounder playing fullback.

The Patriots had elected to start an offensive linemen at fullback, and, while initially surprising, the move made a lot of sense once the running game got going. Sammy Morris and LaMont Jordan combined for 168 yards rushing and two touchdowns.

When asked of his thoughts on Hochstein's new position Morris responded with, "He's 300 pounds...He's either going to blow someone up or they gotta run around him."

Hochstein's move proved successful and apparently isn't all that different from the role he vacated.

"Just like [blocking on the offensive line], you're just trying to go the right way, hit the right person, sustain, and finish the block," he said. "That's all I can do. I'm trying to help the guys out behind me by making the hit quick and making it fast, while making sure they see who I'm getting."

This season the Patriots have themselves a returning Brady, a crowded backfield, and, technically, no fullback. Heath Evans signed with New Orleans in the off-season, but with no aquisitions the Patriots are proving they're comfortable with what they've got at the position in Hochstein.

Predominantly, this team passes first, or in the football sense, runs to set up the pass. So the fullback position doesn't necessarily project to be used as often as it would on a more run-oriented offense. It's important, nonetheless, as we saw in that snow game versus Arizona, and it seems we have a more than capable option in Russ Hochstein.

The Patriots & Michael Vick...Are You Kidding Me?

Aaron Dodge — Fri, 22 May 2009 18:35:28 -0400

I would absolutely love to able to sit down and write an entry that explains how and why the signing of Michael Vick by the New England Patriots is impossible.

I'm sure that even if I accomplished that however, there would still be an endless supply of people who are ready and willing to overlook blatant facts on their way to misguided reasons and explanations as to why the Patriots should, and will, sign him.

I'm going to give it a try anyway though.

The Patriots do not need Vick and even if they did, they still don't need him.

I've heard from other fans and writers who actually believe we need a veteran quarterback presence behind starter Tom Brady, and they somehow manage to connect the dots to Vick.

First we have to ignore the fact that the Patriots selected quarterback Kevin O'Connell in the 3rd round of last years draft, and then didn't make a move when he became the backup last season.

Let's say, just for kicks and giggles, that they actually needed a veteran signal caller.

How does a career completion percentage of 53.8 sound? Or how about a career touchdown to interception ratio of 7:5?

If those awesome stats don't amaze you, hang in there because this resume isn't over.

How does a six year career with only two winning seasons sound? Add in the fact that that he's been out of the game for two seasons as well.

Michael Vick isn't needed because the Patriots are more than content with their depth and he wouldn't even be close to the best option if they did need a backup (and that's only based on playing ability).

Never mind the fact that he just spent a term in federal prison on felony charges and hasn't even been reinstated by the league or had his rights traded by the Atlanta Falcons.

The guy hasn't been in the league since 2006, and has never impressed statistically as a quarterback. He wouldn't match up one bit with the offensive system the Patriots run.

This story has got to stop.

Sure the Patriots have had success with "troubled" players, but they don't work magic. This is a felon who wasn't very good to begin with, and it makes no sense for his name to be brought up in this discussion with all things considered.

Patriots' Maroney had a Broken Bone in his Shoulder

Aaron Dodge — Sun, 17 May 2009 16:14:55 -0400

It should come as no surprise at this stage in the game that it has taken months for the truth about an injury to come out in New England. The Boston Globe is reporting the long awaited truth about Laurence Maroney's shoulder injury.

Maroney was injured in the second game of the season last year and was forced to sit out of Week Three because of the injury. He returned two weeks later, after the Patriot's Week Four bye, against the 49ers.

He rushed for 26 yards on 10 attempts (2.6 average) in that game and received a lot of flack from the media for it. Some called him soft, tenative, and a dancer. Maroney was indeed all of those things because he had a broken bone in his shoulder and was unable to lower it while running.

He was placed on the injured reserve on Oct, 20th because of the "shoulder injury" that we now know was a bit more serious than previously stated. He's excited about the upcoming season and sees it as his chance to finally prove his critics wrong.

"I've been gone too long," Maroney said. "The legs are feeling fresher than ever. Going back out there I know that I'm going to have a lot of critics. It's just going out there and proving everybody wrong. I think there are a lot of people that are counting me out and doubting me, but it's just going out there and having fun again."

With a chip on his shoulder rather than in his shoulder, it will be mighty interesting to see what the still young Maroney can do is a now crowded backfield.

Critics should reserve judgment on Cassel-Vrabel trade

Aaron Dodge — Fri, 15 May 2009 18:52:49 -0400

When the Patriots brass made the decision to send quarterback Matt Cassel and outside linebacker Mike Vrabel to the Chiefs for a second round pick, fans and analysts showed some understandable anger and confusion

Some felt that the trade was very one-sided, and others insisted that the trade market and cap issues had everything to do with it.

While some observers saw a silver lining in the deal, few appeared content with it. Before this thing gets carried away, I'm calling for a timeout on the speculation.

It's far too early to judge the trade, and besides, the Patriots are still in the black in regards to trades whether or not this one pans out.

With the second pick of the second round of the 2009 draft, New England selected safety Patrick Chung from Oregon.

With a tentatively solid-looking safety corps ahead of him on the depth chart, the rookie isn't projected to start or see a huge amount of playing time in his first year.

That means that it might be a while before we see what this kid is truly capable of as he learns the ropes and possibly prepares to replace James Sanders (some reports suggest that Chung eventually could play strong safety and Brandon Meriweather could move to free safety.)

With that said, the jury is still out—as it should be—on what kind of impact Chung can bring.

I would highly suggest holding off on grading this move so early for another reason: history.

Historically, in the Belichick era, the Patriots have had a lot of trades go their way in the end. Here's a look at a few:

Traded a second-round pick in the 2004 draft to Cincinnati for running back Corey Dillon
Traded wide receiver Deion Branch to Seattle in 2006 for a first-round pick (Brandon Meriweather)
Traded a fourth-round pick in the 2007 draft to Oakland for wide receiver Randy Moss
Traded a second- and a seventh-round pick in the 2007 draft to Miami for wide receiver Wes Welker
Traded a first-round pick in the 2007 draft to San Francisco for a first-round pick in the 2008 Draft (Jerod Mayo)

So yes, on paper it may seem like giving up a valuable quarterback and versatile starting linebacker for a second-round pick is a bit much.

To be honest it very well may end up being way to high of a price, but my point is that it's too early to call it one way or the other.

How Well Do You Know the Patriots?

Aaron Dodge — Thu, 14 May 2009 18:11:22 -0400

About a week ago my Patriots knowledge was challenged. I was being told by my challenger that I "didn't even know that much" about my favorite team. So with this bold statement in hand I told my belligerent new "friend" that I would gladly put on display how much I know about the New England Patriots.

I asked him to give me a number and I said I could give him a name and a position, or to give me a name and I could give him the number or position. He proceeded to throw out all the names he could, which didn't take too long, so we made our way to numbers and positions. By the end I had surprised myself and apparently created a new lunchtime game.

Anyway, it got me thinking. If you are up to it and curious enough to see how you stack up follow the setup below and test yourself. Let us know the results and maybe we can name a winner. We're obviously operating on the honor system with the internet right at your service, but what's the point in cheating in something like this? It's purely for fun.

So lets see what ya got, list as many as you can (maybe on a sheet of paper or something) for each position giving the name and number if you want and cross reference with the real chart to see how you do:

QB:

RB:

WR:

TE:

OL:

DL:

LB:

CB:

Special teams/Practice Squad/Rookies:

NE Patriots Considering Judiciary Meeting Regarding Spector's Switch

Aaron Dodge — Sun, 10 May 2009 17:04:59 -0400

BOSTON- In an unprecedented, and yet slightly familiar move, the New England Patriots have begun inquiring about holding a Senate Judiciary Meeting to discuss Senator Arlen Spector's recent switch of parties.

Sen. Specter, D-Pa., who has been a practicing Republican since 1966, announced recently that he was switching parties in part because he didn't think he could win his next election running on the GOP ticket.

New England Patriots' team sources requesting to speak under anonymity because they were not yet permitted to comment on the situation said the Patriots' organization would like the committee to investigate Spector's change of political parties.

One team member stated that "Senator Specter ran as a Republican and was elected as one. Spector's switch brings into question the integrity of his policies and his election along with the integrity of his upcoming campaign".

Another added, "If he ran as a Republican and under their ideals for nearly five decades, how can he decide one day to no longer be a part of them? He violated the trust of the voters in the state of Pennsylvania along with his former party members in the Senate. This organization will not stand for this blatant injustice to the American public and the American political system."

It is unclear at this stage how far the Patriots wish to take their complaints about Specter, but the evidence against him seems strong. When asked what their next move was expected to be, a team source said, "Whatever is right for the American public. We certainly understand that there are many more important things on the agenda of our Government and do not not wish to interfere in any way."

Another source added that "This organization also recognizes its place in politics. This is a sports team and we don't belong in Congress, much like a certain Senator didn't belong in sports when his country was dealing with much more important issues."

NASCAR Suspends Jeremy Mayfield For Positive Drug Test

Aaron Dodge — Sat, 09 May 2009 18:19:22 -0400

NASCAR has immediately and indefinitely suspended Sprint Cup Driver Jeremy Mayfield under the terms of it's substance abuse policy.

Mayfield tested positive during a random screening last week at Richmond and violated Sections 12-1 (actions detrimental to stock car racing) and 7-5 (violation of the NASCAR substance abuse policy) of the 2009 NASCAR rule book.

New England Patriots' LB Need About to be Filled with Pisa Tinoisamoa?

Aaron Dodge — Fri, 08 May 2009 21:27:26 -0400

In an Boston Globe article it was reported that the St. Louis Rams have released LB Pisa Tinoisamoa and the Patriots may be taking interest. The 6-year veteran was the team's leading tackler last season racking up 104 total tackles with 88 of them solo.

The move by the Rams is a little surprising, but it was suggested that Tinoisamoa did not fit into his newly projected role of SAM LB for the St. Louis defense. Mike Reiss of the Globe also notes that he may even be undersized for what the Patriots would generally look for at the MLB position.

With all that said he's probably the best option out there if the Patriots are geuninely looking to add depth to a MLB position that saw one member (3rd round selection Tyrone McKenzie) put on IR already.

His early departure leaves only Reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year Jerod Mayo, an ever increasingly aged Tedy Bruschi and un-proven players like Gary Guyton and Eric Alexander.

It would make a lot of sense to bring in a talented and proven player at this position given the inexperience behind starters Mayo and Bruschi.

Bruschi has seen his glory days pass him by and while he can still play he needs to do it in a needs to it in a rotation, he just doesn't have it in him to play 3 downs.

So with the need for someone to step in and play some snaps I would feel better about having a guy who has put up 75 tackles or more in four of his six seasons and has some youth on hid side as well. Maybe Tinoisamoa could fit that role for New England.

Boston's Memory of Manny Kept at Bay

Aaron Dodge — Tue, 05 May 2009 21:12:19 -0400

These days, you won't hear much grumbling about the absence of Manny Ramirez. Everyone was fed up with his attitude and antics, but their were many skeptics wondering what the Boston lineup would be able to accomplish without their star hitter.

The emergence of Jason Bay as a more than capable replacement in left field and in the batting order has silenced many of those skeptics. The production of first baseman Kevin Youkilis should quiet the rest (unless you're David Ortiz).

Through 26 games, the two have put up very comparable numbers. Bay even bests Ramirez in many categories, including runs scored, doubles, triples, runs batted in, walks, and stolen bases. He also keeps his attitude in line, acts like a mature adult, patrols left field with incredible ability and accuracy, and most importantly, he wants to be here.

Bay is a far cry from what Boston once had to deal with. The worst part about him is that he's in his prime and is not signed long term. That hasn't been a source of drama and concern, though. He's expressed definite interest in returning and wants to put contract talk aside and just play baseball.

I'll take an incredibly productive player and all around solid person any day over the likes of Manny Ramirez. I don't think we have to worry about Bay quitting on his team or physically assaulting a 60-year-old traveling secretary.

Patriots Rookie LB Tyrone McKenzie Injured

Aaron Dodge — Sun, 03 May 2009 15:20:25 -0400

The Boston Globe is reporting that Patriots Rookie LB Tyrone McKenzie was injured early this morning in a pass coverage drill. He did not return to practice, but was observing the rest of it from the sidelines.

McKenzie, who was covering a running back, remained on the ground after trying to swat away a pass. He was holding his right knee as he was looked at by members of the team's medical/training staff.

McKenzie watched the rest of the practice, standing up, from the sidelines.

The first question Bill Belichick was asked by media members was if it was tough to see McKenzie go down, and if he could provide an update on his status.

"I don't know, we just finished practice," he responded. "We'll have to wait and see."

It certainly is good news that he wasn't rushed off the field for examination and that he was standing on the sidelines, but I am one to remember watching Tom Brady stand up, walk off the field and down a flight of stairs only to never play again last season. Let's all hope this is nothing serious and our only LB taken in this years draft is good to go come preseason.

Wes Welker Benched as Julio Lugo Returns

Aaron Dodge — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 21:30:07 -0400

Julio Lugo returned to the starting lineup tonight, marking the end of Wes Welker's stint as starting SS for the Red Sox. Welker filled in admirably for Jed Lowrie when the starter went down with a wrist ailment and later settled for surgery. Hitting in the nine-spot, Welker was able to maintain a .298 average with seven RBI and seven runs scored.

It's probably for the best though. Welker does need to report to mini camp in short time to prepare for the 2009 NFL season. It makes you wonder how he was able to balance both the MLB and NFL schedules in the past. He's played full seasons for AAA teams and MLB clubs like the Rays and Braves all while playing for the Dolphins and Patriots. It's almost like there are two of them.

Wait a minute...

In all seriousness, it's been fun to watch Nick Green play for the Sox this season, not only because of his solid play, but because, at first glance, the guy looks like Wes Welker. Maybe not so much when two pictures are compared, but in game it looks like Welker gained three inches in height and enjoys playing for the Sox in his offseason.

Anyone else out there thinking the same thing?

Aaron is a writer here at the Bleacher Report, but he also runs a Sports Forum which may interest you. Check it out at http://THLforums.com.

Crossing My Fingers for Jason Taylor

Aaron Dodge — Sat, 25 Apr 2009 22:28:17 -0400

Not to lump myself with the mass of dissatisfied Patriots nation, but...well I too am a little dissatisfied as the first day of the 2009 NFL Draft comes to an end.

In Bill Belichick I will always trust, but man anyone else still not comfortable with the idea of Pierre Woods starting and Gary Guyton being our backup option in the middle? I like both of the guys don't get me wrong, but I'm sure as heck not comfortable enough to like them as possible starters yet.

I figured our need at either or maybe even both linebacker positions would be addressed on day one and they weren't. The defense did get a little better with the additions of CB Darius Butler, S Patrick Chung, and NT Ron Brace. All players will at the very least add some depth to their respective positions and possibly help out on special teams at the bare minimum come regular season.

The second day is still very much in the future and the Patriots know how to find gems in later rounds, but the lack of a LB on the first day has me really wondering what our starting line up will look like and it gets me hoping mightily for Jason Taylor.

I'm off the Peppers bandwagon. If it happens great, but I'm sick of the story because nothing has come of it and nothing appears to be able to come of it. So I return to the Taylor idea. It has been reported that if Miami doesn't want him he would heavily consider New England. It has also been reported that after the draft the Dolphins would be deciding on Taylor's future with their team.

So it's my hope at this point that the Patriots can do one of two things or even both if they want to really make my day. One, find some proven pass rushers in the later rounds. Two, sign Jason Taylor for a year or two to hold a spot for a youngster. If neither happens I'm gonna be one heck of a complainer about this year's draft until I'm hopefully proven wrong.

Thoughts?

Aaron is a writer here at the Bleacher Report, but he also runs a Sports Forum which may interest you. Check it out at http://THLforums.com.

Brady's Return: Realistic Expectations Necessary

Aaron Dodge — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 11:59:15 -0400

I would hope that fans of the NFL and even the New England Patriots understand the fact that Tom Brady will never return to the statistical form of his 2007 season. For starters, he doesn't have to have that kind of season and historically he never even got close before. He also may not even be able to either.

Lets take trip down memory lane to past seasons. We're going back in time, back to a team without a deep threat like Randy Moss and without the "Slot Machine" Wes Welker. This was a time without huge names, but that didn't matter one bit in New England. This era yielded some pretty heavy duty hardware like say three AFC Championships, three Super Bowl Championships, and five playoff appearances.

I am by no means here to say that the Patriots record breaking offense of '07 was holding them back, heck they only lost to one opponent after beating them earlier(albeit in the biggest game in franchise history). All I'm trying to say is that the Brady led Patriots had immense success before his "breakout" season. He was a prolific winner before and there's no reason to believe that he has to put up the same stats for this team to have a success.

In his six previous seasons (as a starter) Brady never put up more than 28 touchdowns and averaged a little over 24. That was with "weapons" such as David Givens, Reche Caldwell, and David Patten. So it's no stretch to think he will have little trouble producing more with the likes of his Hall of Fame caliber WRs again this year. However I'm warning that expectations have got to be in line with him coming back from a year off and knee surgery.

His knee will hold him back, how much it will affect his game is beyond any of us, we all will have to wait and see. Whether it's an adjustment period to the permanent brace or a slow start similar to Peyton Manning's recovery, I believe he will feel the affects for a time being and it will show in his production.

The Patriots may have been and may still be the "Class" of the AFC East, AFC, or even the NFL, but it would be incredibly over zealous to think other teams won't get better. Randy Moss catching a bomb for 65 yards won't happen too many times before a defensive coordinator decides to go with a different approach.

With all Brady has to go through getting back into playing form and the leaps and bounds other defenses are sure to be making in progression, I believe it's fair to say you will see a decline in his numbers. Historically that hasn't been too much of a bad thing. Brady may not have won the MVP before his '07 season, but I think Patriots fans were more than content with his two Super Bowl MVP trophies.

Aaron is a writer here at the Bleacher Report, but he also runs a Sports Forum which may interest you. Check it out at THLforums.com.

Jacoby Ellsbury: Rooke of the Year and Record Breaker?

Aaron Dodge — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 12:20:30 -0400

Red Sox rookie OF Jacoby Ellsbury has the chance to extend his team's run of producing Rookie of the Year award winners. Just a year ago 2B Dustin Pedroia won the award and in 2006 P Jonathan Papelbon finished second.

Ellsbury has some tough competition this year and his month of June didn't help very many of his stats. As the All-Star break ends though look for him to make a run, literally, at breaking records and winning the ROTY award.

One of his many assets include his uncanny ability to run. Whether it's in the field or on the basepaths this guy can fly to wherever he's going. He's shown it this year with his American League leading 35 stolen bases, he also ranks second in MLB just four behind Willy Taveras of the Rockies.

His blistering pace (no pun intended) has opened the eyes of some Red Sox historians because Ellsbury is now only 20 stolen bases away from holding the team record that has stood for nearly four decades. Tommy Harper recorded 54 thefts in 1973 and his record is in jeopardy to a brilliant young star.

Barring injury or a huge slump Ellsbury has set himself up for a terrific shot at breaking this record and calling it his own in just his first full season. That's an amazing accomplishment, but don't expect that to be it for him.

He's going to be a real contender come ROTY voting. While his average may not be brillant at the moment (.269) it's due in large to his month of June as I mentioned before. He only hit .245 that month after hitting .282 in April, .281 in May, and .278 so far in July. So if he continues to hit in the .280 range his seasons average will start to reflect that. He'll also have a much easier time stealing bases when he's on base to begin with so expect both stats to rise.

He hits in the beginning of the lineup so he's rarely put in RBI situations so it should be no surprise that he only has 27 runs batted in with five homeruns. That might be an issue with fellow rookie Evan Longoria being on pace to knock in 100 RBIs.

Pedroia did win it last year with only 50 RBIs though so it may not be as crucial in the ROTY competition. Whether Ellsbury can bring in the honor or not it won't change much about the immense potential he has to be a star for years to come. Papelbon didn't win it in 2006 and that apparently didn't hinder his ability to be one of the best closers, if not the best in the league. Only time will tell what '08 has in store for Ellsbury, but right now the skys the limit.

THLforums.com

Breaking News: Yankees Fans Still Classless

Aaron Dodge — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 13:38:07 -0400

NEW YORK, July 16—In an un-surprising uproar of disrespect, New York Yankees fans once again proved their lack of class Tuesday. But this showcase of stupidity and vulgarity was put on hours before the eighth inning crucifixion of Boston Red Sox All-Star Jonathan Papelbon. He was every bit a part of the situation however.

Before the All-Star game and its never ending pre-game festivities, a parade was held. The parade traveled along 6th Avenue from 40th to 58th Street in Manhattan.

Fans were given the chance to see more than 100 past and present players, including 49 Hall of Fame members as they rode by. How did the Yankee fans decide to behave when given the opportunity to tell any and all rival team members what they thought of them? Well how else would you expect them to react? They booed.

That's all well and good and a part of baseball (especially for New York), but it's over the line when it moves beyond the players and starts involving their family.

How can you justify yelling and chanting expletives at a player who is sitting directly next to their pregnant wife? But let’s not even start there, how can you justify the reason you were so upset with this player when it was all based on twisted words by the New York "media"?

Let’s take a look at some of the things Jonathan Papelbon said during the interview that somehow produced headlines like "Papelbum" and "I deserve to Close, not Rivera."

"I've always referred to (Rivera) as the Godfather, you know, no pun intended being in New York," Papelbon said. "That's what he is, man. You know, he's kind of the Godfather. He's been a main contributor of making this role what it is today. A lot of the younger closers in this room like myself do owe a sense of respect to him."

Papelbon showed nothing but respect for Mariano Rivera and his accomplishments. He simply made a comment that should be expected out of a player of his caliber. He said he's a closer and it's his job to close and that he'd like to do his job. That's it. He made no demands and certainly didn't disrespect Rivera.

“That was an easy headline for that (expletive) to say, ‘Yeah, Papelbon wants to close.’ Of course I do, that’s my competitive nature. But I’m stepping away and saying I don’t need to close.”

The word twisted headlines based on complete fallacies were enough ammo for the Yankees fans though. Heck, they wouldn't have any hope for the playoffs this year if they based any of their hopes on facts.

So they took their imagined insult towards their beloved closer and their aggression and took it out on pregnant women and children. Class acts if you ask Mariano.

"That's how the fans are here, you know," Rivera said. "It was great."

Others didn't find the antics so "great."

"I had my kids with me, so there was probably a few choice words that we wouldn't like a six-and an eight-year-old to hear for an hour." said Jason Varitek.

“It kind of (ticks) you off when your family gets involved like that and you’re trying to enjoy an experience with your family and you have a wife who is pregnant who doesn’t feel safe riding in a red carpet event with you. How would you feel?”

It's sad that a rivalry between two...well one professional baseball team and another significantly less professional team has to go to the extremes of making women and children scared of their surroundings. But I suppose that's now the norm when it comes to the third place Yankees and their classless fans.

Colts, Bolts, Jets: Who's the Pats Biggest Rival?

Aaron Dodge — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 08:56:55 -0400

Of all the heated rivalries that the Patriots have had over their dynasty run it really is a tough call to decide on their biggest. There are many candidates; you of course have the perennial teams like the Colts, Chargers, and Jets. Going back a couple years the Steelers or Broncos would fit into this mix as well and maybe even the Raiders.

There's no denying that there is plenty of bad blood between the Patriots and all of these teams, so I'll give you my ranking and see what you guys think.

1. Colts Vs. Patriots

The bad blood between the Patriots and Colts is undeniable. It's to be expected when two great teams exist at the same time and in the same conference. They meet at least once a year every year either in the regular season or playoffs and sometimes both.

The Patriots had the Colts number for a long time and it wasn't until the 2005 season that Manning and his team punched back. They beat the Patriots 40-21 and officially started a new chapter in their rivalry, one in which they would have the upper hand.

The Colts ended the Patriots season one year later in 2006 in one of the best AFC Championship games ever played after beating them in the regular season as well.

2007 was another story obviously with the Patriots taking no prisoners during the regular season. The Colts three game winning streak over the Patriots was ended in a 24-20 thriller last season.

This is the best rivalry simply because each team is so good and it's a shame that they had to come along at the same time to ruin each other's success—unless you like rivalries.

2. Chargers Vs. Patriots

The year was 2005, the Patriots were riding a 21-game home winning streak dating back to the 2002 regular season. It was a classic beat down, the game ended with a loss for the Patriots at 41-17.

With this game in mind a year later the Patriots flew out to San Diego for the AFC Divisional Championship game. The Chargers had enjoyed a 14-2 season and were loaded with pro-bowlers. They had the first seed in the AFC and were favored to win. They didn’t.

In fact some would say the Patriots didn’t win either, but that the Chargers managed to lose it. Their first season that had shown some significant possibilities had ended at the hands of the Patriots 24-21 victory.

To make things worse the Patriots (who had in their own right suffered through Merriman’s antics throughout the game) celebrated their victory mimicking LB Shawn Merriman’s sack dance. Now each team had something huge stolen from them.

They would meet yet again in 2007, a game after Spygate. The Chargers were obliterated by the newly designed Patriots' super offense and it looked like their season was in shambles a few weeks later. They turned it around though and made it into the playoffs and took on guess who in the AFC Championship. The Patriots rolled on yet again winning 21-12 and further infuriated the Chargers and their fans.

This one isn’t done yet; the Patriots and Chargers meet week six next year in San Diego.

3. Jets Vs. Patriots

This rivalry is different from many others. It’s not based as much on the on field activities as much as it is on the off field activities. Spygate needs no explanation, that’s the largest sticking point that’ll keep the hatred between these two burning for awhile. The personnel issues are what got it going though.

You could say that the Patriots taking Belichick right out from under the Jets in 1999 set them up for the rivalry, but it was the Jets retaliation that really got it going. They signed the Patriots Defensive Coordinator Eric Mangini to their Head Coaching position. Mangini was said to be Belichick’s understudy and they were apparently very close.

The Mangini signing obviously set the Spygate scandal up for uncovering. The two teams have also swapped players for years. When the Patriots would cut a player the Jets would run right in to claim them. The Patriots grabbed Victor Hobson once he hit the FA market this year and the Jets also took the Patriots dream pick Vernon Gholston in this year’s draft forcing them to trade down.

They play at least twice a year and if the Jets can get competitive this rivalry won’t end for a long time.

4. Steelers Vs. Patriots

The rivalry between these two teams would be much more heated if it wasn’t such a one sided affair. The Steelers haven’t beaten the Patriots since week eight of the 2004 season. That win, however, ended the Patriots perfect season that they had going.

The Patriots ended the season at 14-2 and with revenge in mind they faced off with the Steelers later with a ticket to the Super Bowl on the line. They won and went on to defeat the Eagles to collect their third World Championship in four years.

The following year the Patriots got their second win in a row against Pittsburgh, but Roesthlisberger and his team had the last laugh when they went on to win the Super Bowl while the Patriots wondered how they could have let Denver beat them.

2007 rolled along and with a year long break you would think maybe the fire had died down, but rookie S Anthony Smith would make sure that wasn’t the case. In the days prior to their game with New England, the Steelers’ Smith made his now infamous guarantee that they would beat the then 12-0 Patriots. They didn’t, in fact Smith was responsible for 14 of the 34 points put up on his defense.

Next year the Steelers and Patriots will face off in week 13 and with the upgrades both of these teams have made it won’t be surprising if they play another game later that season.

5. Broncos Vs. Patriots

The Broncos get a coveted spot on this list because of one game that I am unable to let go of just yet. In 2005 the Patriots and Broncos were set to take each other on in Mile High Stadium for the AFC Divisional Championship game.

The Patriots were riding a 10 game winning streak, Brady was looking to improve his perfect playoff record to 11-0, and the organization was after its third straight Super Bowl title. All streaks and record ended that night, at least all of the good ones.

Instead the Patriots coughed up the ball five times, lost pivotal challenges, and all around failed. It was the worst game I’ve ever seen and by far the hardest to watch. The Patriots would show life and a chance until their next turnover ended all hope.

Old reliables like Troy Brown muffed a punt, Adam Vinatieri missed a field goal, and Tom Brady threw two picks. I won’t let this game go because of the way it was played and what was lost. In my mind when these two teams play in week seven next year for the first time since this playoff game, the Patriots will have in mind a dish best served cold.

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Aaron Dodge

THLfourms.com