2010 NFL Free Agency: Patriots in Hot Pursuit of Star Receiver Anquan Boldin?

According to the Patriots-are-the-frontrunners-for-Boldin.html">National Football Post, the Patriots are the lead dog in the hunt for star receiver Anquan Boldin's services. 

While speculation about where Boldin might play next season has ranged from the Cardinals' division rival Seahawks to the Ravens and the Patriots' division rival Dolphins, I for one have heard almost nothing about a move sending Boldin to New England.

Is this were true, New England might be looking to an even better offense than we saw in 2007, as they'd be lining up Randy Moss, Anquan Boldin, and at some point in the year Wes Welker, once he returns from injury.

As a group, these three receivers represent over 3,600 receiving yards and 21 touchdowns in production at the receiver position last year. After seeing what Brady did with Donte' Stallworth, Welker, and Moss in 2007, the Patriots fan in me is salivating a little bit at the thought of Boldin joining the fold. 

I'll keep on top of this developing story as it unfolds further. Just off the top of my head, last I heard the Cardinals were looking for a third-rounder in exchange for Boldin. 

If that's true, it's very odd, but only in that it'd be the second player this offseason for which compensation would be a third-round pick (Kirk Morrison, RFA) in a year the Patriots have no third-rounders. It makes me wonder if they might trade down two of their second-round picks to third-round picks and turn those third-round picks into Boldin or an RFA like Morrison.

Personally, I don't think something like that is necessary. I have to say, if they were able to trade a second-rounder for Boldin, and a second-rounder for Morrison, and then sign both to long-term deals, I would be VERY HAPPY as a Patriots fan. New England would have to feel very comfortable as entering the 2010-11 season. 

Things will be very interesting to watch as they unfold over the upcoming hours, days, and even weeks. God, I love this time of year!