Tag Archives: NewenglandPatriots

Patriots Player To Watch This Season: Phillip Dorsett

Leave a reply

As the 2018 NFL season quickly sneaks its way upon us, there are many questions surrounding the 2018 New England Patriots and some glaring holes some see in our roster. Sure, the Patriots do play in a weak AFC East and will more than likely win the division and get a bye into the playoffs. But there is one group of guys that I think need to step it up the most. No, its not the defensive unit, even though last year they were more than suspect. This year it is the WR core who will need to step up and fill the voids left by Julian Edelman (serving a 4 game suspension for PED’s) and Brandin Cooks (traded to the Rams).

The Deepest Hole In The Roster

With the Patriots, one spot on the field that is constantly in question is defense, especially now under Coach Belichick and first year coordinator, Brian Flores. Sure, Malcolm Butler left and signed with Tennessee. But again, the position to watch on the field early on is the WR position and how some of the new faces will mesh with Tom Brady. With a banged up WR group before the season even starts, there is one name I think will play a huge role this season on the offensive side of the ball…..Phillip Dorsett.

photo credit – youtube.com

Young and Hungry

Phillip Dorsett may not be a household name yet. But this is a guy who was a late first round pick with great speed and tremendous upside coming out of The U. Unfortunately, he wasn’t able to really get it going in Indianapolis, which lead to a trade to the Patriots. Dorsett ended up appearing in 15 games with the Pats in 2017 and now has a full year and offseason learning the playbook and becoming more familiar with Tom Brady and Josh McDaniels and their tendencies.

Dorsett is only 25 years old and brings a tremendous amount of talent to the table for this Patriots offense. This is a guy known for his speed, the ability to catch and hold onto the football, and also his footwork – with or without the ball. From an outsider standpoint, we should look for Dorsett to fill the void left by Brandin Cooks as a fast, deep threat down the sideline. Also look for him to get a ton of slot work early in the season, with Edelman being sidelined for 4 games.

photo credit – stampedeblue.com

Prediction

Phillip Dorsett’s career high in receptions is 33 in 2016 with the Colts. But after a full season in 2017, plus an additional off-season and training camp learning the playbook and working more closely with Brady and McDaniels, I would expect him to reach a career high in every category across the board. We can also look for Dorsett to make an impact in the kicking and punt return game.

Phillip Dorsett will be the surprise X-Factor on this Patriots offense in 2018 ….. here is my prediction for Phil:

700 yds

5 TD’s

45+ receptions

60+ Targets

Patriots Training Camp Preview: Quarterback

Leave a reply

With Patriots training camp approaching on July 26th, there are many different players on this team from last year. The Pats acquired four guys from trade, fifteen from free agency, and nine from the NFL Draft. They also lost nine players from trade and free agency and had three players retire.

In this new series, I will be looking at every player from each position leading up to training camp. For this part of the series I will talk about the most important position on the field: Quarterback. Quarterback has been the most consistent position for the Patriots since 2001. Ever since Tom Brady got his first start in 2001, the Patriots had only had four Quarterbacks start for them (Bledsoe, Cassel, Garoppolo, Brissett). The Patriots are bringing in three QB’s to training camp this year.

Tom Brady #12 (2000-Present):

Tom Brady is entering his 19th season for the Patriots where he has had a very successful career. He is a 5-time Super Bowl Winner, 3-time NFL MVP, 4-time Super Bowl MVP, and 13-time Pro-Bowler. Brady for his entire career has had 66,159 pass yards, 488 TD, 160 INT, and a record of 196-55-0. One of Tom’s MVP’s seasons came last year where he amassed 4,577 pass yards, 32 TD, and 8 INT.

He led the Patriots all the way to the Super Bowl where the ultimately came up short to the Eagles. Tom has been one of the main reasons as to why the Patriots are consistently in the Super Bowl.

Brady, who will be 41 at the start of the season, has shown no signs of slowing down yet. Expectations for him are still very high. Every year, it is expected that the Patriots will win a Super Bowl and it is expected that Brady will lead them there.

The verdict is that Tom Brady will 100% be on the Patriots 2018 roster.

Brian Hoyer #2 (2009-2011, 2017-Present)

Brian Hoyer was the Patriots backup QB for the last half of the 2017-2018 season. He began his season in San Francisco where he started six games. Hoyer went 0-6 in those six games and had a stat line of 1,287 pass yards, 5 total touchdowns, and 4 INTs. He ended up getting released by the 49ers after San Francisco traded for former Pat’s QB Jimmy Garappolo.

After getting released by the 49ers, the Patriots signed him for the rest of the season due to only having one QB on the roster. This would be the second stint in New England after being drafted by the team in 2009. Hoyer was part of the 2011 Patriots that went on to win the AFC Championship. Brian has only appeared in eighteen games in his four years with New England with him, and a stat line of 328 pass yards, 1 touchdown, and 1 INT.

Once he left the Pats in 2011, he had a very solid few seasons in Cleveland. In his first year for the Browns, he started three games and went 3-0 with 615 pass yards, 5 TD, and 3 INT. He then started 13 games for Cleveland where he had a record of 7-6 and 3,326 pass yards 12 TD, and 13 INT. His next season would come in Houston under his former offensive coordinator, Bill O’Brien. He had his best statistical season where he had a record of 5-4, 2,606 pass yards, 19 pass TD, and 7 INT. This would be his last season in Houston though. He then had an uneventful season in Chicago and then went to San Francisco.

Brian Hoyer is a very solid option as a backup quarterback to Tom Brady. He has been in the league for a long time and has some quality experience as a starter. Overall, Hoyer will most likely be the backup to Tom Brady for the upcoming season.

Danny Etling (Rookie):

With the 219th pick in the NFL Draft, the New England Patriots select Danny Etling, QB, LSU. With all the rumors going around about the Patriots selecting a quarterback early to be the predecessor to Brady, they waited all the way until the seventh round. Etling was kind of a surprise pick with him not being rated higher than a lot of undrafted QBs.

Etling started his college career at Purdue where he appeared in thirteen games over the span of two seasons. In those thirteen games, he had 2,490 pass yards, 16 pass TD, and 12 INT. He would then transfer to LSU where he played two seasons. Over those two seasons, he played 24 games and had 4,586 pass yards, 27 pass TD, and 7 INT. His senior season at LSU was his best season in college. He appeared in thirteen games and threw for 2,463 pass yards 16 pass TD, and 2 INT.

Danny Etling, 23, will most likely be a project for the Patriots. He will not be a quality backup right away, but he has potential. I believe the Patriots will keep Etling on the practice squad on the upcoming season to learn from Brady and Hoyer.

The position of quarterback for the Patriots has always been the most consistent since Brady took over, and not much looks to change this year.

 

Q&A with Patriots Offensive Lineman LaAdrian Waddle

Leave a reply

photo cred- www.zimbio.com

 

This past week I had the opportunity to connect with New England Patriots offensive lineman LaAdrian Waddle via Facebook. LaAdrian is a cool dude and simply posted the question, “what is ok to mix with your eggs?”, in which I put my two cents into his discussion. We had a back and forth that eventually turned into a quick Q&A. Shout out to LaAdrian for taking the time to answer my questions, and to Boston Sports Extra for giving me the opportunity to write for them and reach out to players and be able to speak with them on a level I never thought I could.

For those of you who aren’t familiar with LaAdrian, this dude is a MONSTER. He stands at 6’6 and weighs in at 315 pounds. In other words, the dude is a mack truck. LaAdrian is a Texas native who played his college ball at Texas Tech University, the same college as former Patriot receivers Wes Welker and Danny Amendola. The big man went undrafted out of college and signed on with the Detroit Lions before being cut after an injury ruined his 2014 campaign. He was eventually signed by the Pats and recently re-signed after testing out free agency (Dallas showed interest). We are glad to have him back.

NOW, LETS GET DOWN TO THE Q & A SHALL WE?

Q: What is your all time favorite meal or food?

A (LaAdrian):  “Chinese food”

-Not a bad choice at all big fella.

 

Q: Do you have any superstitions or rituals you carry out before a game?

A: “Nope”

– A man of few words… Nothing wrong with keeping it short and sweet!

 

Q: Favorite artist out right now if you had to choose one?

A: “Juicy J”

– Okay, can’t lie on this one bud… JUICY J?!? I was hoping for J.Cole, Post Malone, or Kendrick Lamar… But JUICY J? COME ON MANNNNNNN.

 

Q: Favorite movie of all time, and are you big into the Avengers movies?

A: “Haven’t seen the Avengers yet but I do like all those movies. Don’t really have one favorite movie, just a long list of ones I like.”

– Much respect for being an Avengers/Marvel fan, but everyone has ONE favorite / go to movie, don’t they?!

 

Q: It seems like Fortnite is the new craze hitting college dorm rooms, living rooms, and even locker rooms. Has it hit your home yet? Are you part of the Fortnite frenzy?

A: “Yeah I be on there getting beat by little kids”

– I feel your pain brother… I’d laugh but honestly the same happens to me, hence why I stopped playing the game…. Damn kids and their video games!

 

Q: For the most part do you enjoy living in New England?

A: “It’s alright minus the brutal winters. Boston is a cool city but I’m not about that traffic”

– Traffic in Boston… You don’t say?! I hear ya bro, Boston is a great city to be in but I am all set with traffic on a daily basis too big guy!

 

Q: Who do you got winning the NBA Finals? Give me your “expert” prediction

A: ” Rockets vs Celtics….Rockets win in 7″

– Wow, okay big man. I can’t say I don’t like the picks… Even with Kyrie and Gordon injured I think we still take the East but lose to the West… But my pick is Golden State

 

Q: Who would you choose as your favorite college teammate at Texas Tech and your favorite teammate on the Patriots?

A: “I’ve had a bunch of great teammates over the years. That’s what makes this game so special.”

– Kept it humble and to a minimum, so no feelings were hurt. I see what you did there!

 

Q: What is your most memorable moment playing in the NFL?

A: “Playing in Super Bowl LI”

– Cant lie, Super Bowl LI is one of my favorites as a fan too… FALCONS BLEW A 28-3 LEAD… #NeverForget

 

Q: What ultimately lead to you re-signing with the Patriots? Was it playing for another ring? Playing with Tom and for Bill?

A: “It was the best situation”

– Okay, easy to see Belichick has these guys trained well when it comes to giving answers! NOT EVEN MAD ABOUT IT.#InBillWeTrust

 

Q: Who are your most competitive teammates on the Patriots on both sides of the ball?

A: “If you’re a Patriot, you’re competitive lol”

– I think he is under the impression I’m trying to set him up. Don’t worry big fella, I see what your doing. I wouldn’t get you in trouble with the locker room!

 

Q: What are your expectations for the upcoming season?

A: “Have the best season of my career and help this team win a bunch of big games”

– I cant argue with that big man, do your job right?! I like the sound of that!

 

Q: We all see how crazy Tom Brady is about winning but from your perspective being inside the locker room and being on his side of the ball at practice and during games, just how crazy is he and do you consider him the GOAT like many of us do?

A: ” The reason you play is to win! He is the GREATEST”

-Basically confirmed what we ALL already know… Brady is a MANIAC and he is truly the G.O.A.T.

photo credit- www.nesn.com

 

This concludes my Q & A with LaAdrian Waddle. Again, I want to give a big shout out to him for taking the time to answer these and give me some insight on him as a person and as a football player. Stay tuned for more to come! Check out Boston Sports Extra on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for more articles from our talented and knowledgeable writers!

GO PATS!

NFL Draft Party Presented by Agent Sean Stellato: Sights and Sounds

Leave a reply

Ever wonder what it’s like to attend an NFL draft party, complete with NFL players, agents, and staff? Look no further, as I’m going to take you through my experience this past Thursday, when the NFL kicked off the 2018 season with the annual NFL Draft. This event was graciously hosted by Stellato Sports and its founder and NFL agent, Sean Stellato.

Arrival

I arrived in Middleton, MA around 5 PM on Thursday, April 26th, at this gorgeous country club where you could see employees and vendors setting up and getting ready for the arriving guests as you pulled up. Being early, I decided to poke around and get a feel of the place and a realistic perspective of how poor I really am. This place was nice. The lot was flooded with BMWs, Porches, and I even spotted a midnight black Lambo that would stop any car enthusiast in their tracks. Making my way into the clubhouse, I ran into to some folks discussing table placement, buffet arrangements, and where to put bags and coats. Being unfamiliar, I asked this kind gentleman in a suit where I might be able to check in at the media desk for entry. He let me know I was early, but didn’t mind if I wondered the grounds so long as I was back for check-in. No problem. I headed up to the rooftop deck where they were also setting up for the event, but I decided to take in the scenery and snap some beautiful pictures of the course from above. The smell of grass and the sounds of golf balls getting hammered down the green was in a way soothing, and with the sky a pretty blue, it created the perfect backdrop for the party. As time ticked away, and check-in being 6 PM, I went back down stairs to get ready for entry.

Let’s Get This Party Started

As I stood in line to get my wristband, in plain sight and about 50-ft away, was New England Patriots LB Marquis Flowers checking his phone and chatting up a group of kids and fans who were excited to see him. All smiles, Marquis was kind throughout and never wavered when approached. Then, out of the corner of my eye, I spot the whitest Benz I think I’ve ever seen pulling up to a parking spot. I mean whiter than white out. Out comes Sean Stellato, NFL agent, party host, and author. When I say this dude was stylin’, he would have given Michael Jackson a run for his money. Also, Sean if you’re reading this, nice shoes that day (picture below). After the “Hello”s and “See you all inside”s, we got our bands, goody bag with gifts (gift cards to eateries, party favors, etc), and headed to our designated areas. I was upstairs on the VIP/Media deck.

Networking/Pre-Draft

After getting upstairs, the rooftop filled quickly. CEOs, Founders, and Owners of things were mostly in attendance, but you had your fair share of the everyday fan. You could hear conversations ranging from “This is nice, good weather”, to “Let me tell you about this new high-tech water my company makes.” There was no short in levels of interaction. Chatting it up with a few big-wigs and becoming friends on LinkedIn, I grabbed a drink from the bar and mosied my way to the number of buffets that were provided. Sushi, cheese and crackers, wine, and a dinner buffet that featured classic Italian cuisine. Meanwhile, event employees were setting up a display for a photo-op with New England Patriot players who were slated to be there, while they also placed the five shining Vince Lombardi trophies from each of New England’s Super Bowl victories on a stand for viewing and pictures.

Once most had a bit to eat and drink, Sean made the announcement that Patriots players Marquis Flowers, Brandon King, and Rob Ninkovich would be attending. He also noted that Tony DeMarco, aka “The Boston Bomber” (58-12 pro record), would be there. Not many people got excited, but I did as this dude is a stone-cold legend around Boston. He even has his own statue! Even so, the crowd started to hover around the display hoping to get their chance to meet and greet with the players, phone in hand already on camera mode.

Then comes out the players and the crowd gets chatty. Some fight to get up close, some yelling from the back, but it was all in good spirit. I happened to be lucky enough to get a “front row seat”, but admittedly found it difficult to have a lengthy conversation with the stars of the show due to them being pulled in all directions. I did manage to get a few pictures and chat it up with both Tony and Sean, who were equally as pleasant and accommodating. My time with Tony lasted longer, which was pretty cool to hear a few of his “war stories” from the ring. Overall, it was neat to shake hands and talk with polarizing figures. With the actual draft beginning at 8 PM, I made my way downstairs ready for the draft to begin.

Draft/After-Party

Once the draft started and all were full and happy, the networking and conversation seemed to remain steady. There were a few still sticking to their marketing pitch and investment strategies, but most wanted to have a good time at that point. Flowers, Jones, and Ninkovich were saying hello and making conversation while ESPN was on the projector screen for viewing at the head of the room. There was a nice speech thanking all of us for coming and enjoying ourselves, which was nice. Pick after pick people chatted and enjoyed themselves and the wonderful reception that followed the pre-party. As the draft grew later in the night, a good portion of folks started to head home for the evening, myself included, as an hour and 40 minute drive was staring me in the face. Leaving shortly after, I relived the events of the evening and how cool of an experience it was.

Recap

This was such a unique experience, and shout out to Boston Sports Extra and Sean Stellato for allowing me to attend. Not only was I able to meet some pretty cool and smart business executives, I was surrounded by the energy and prestige of upper level executives and NFL caliber talent, as well as positive spirits. I met a boxing legend in Tony Demarco, shook hands with NFL players, and took a picture and chatted with a real, big-time NFL agent. I ate 5-star food and got free stuff, not a bad deal. Overall, it was the perfect event to network, grab some free stuff, and just have a low-key good time especially as a football fan. If I were you, I would absolutely recommend to one day attend a draft party if you’re able. Aside from a good time, you never know who you might meet.

Don’t worry, that’s water 😉

Be sure follow my Twitter @JaxBrown725. Leave a comment and share!

Should Alex Guerrero Be Allowed to Work with the Patriots?

Leave a reply

(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Alex Guerrero: Health Guru / Locker Room Menace

This past season for the New England Patriots was filled with more drama involving its own clubhouse than I can ever remember in recent history. The drama started to unfold when Seth Wickersham cited a rift between Kraft, Belichick, and Tom Brady. The drama stemmed back to one man: Alex Guerrero.

For those not familiar with Mr. Guerrero, he is Tom Brady’s trainer, health guru, close personal friend, and now ENEMY of Bill Belichick. The Wickersham report basically stated that Belichick was unhappy with Guerrero’s presence in the clubhouse and on the sidelines, which ultimately lead to a ban him from being associated with the Patriots. To no one’s surprise this did not settle well with TB12, who loves having this guy around. Let’s face it, he played an ENORMOUS role in saving Tom’s career.

SIDE NOTE – Not sure if anyone noticed in Tom vs Time, but EVERY TIME Brady got treatment at the Patriots facility, it appeared to be on a massage bed in some sort of luxury suite.

 

(AP Photo/Kathy Willens)

Should He Be Allowed to Work with the Team?

The question football fans have surrounding this situation is an easy one: is Bill taking this entire situation too far? My answer is simple. Yes, he is going WAY too far with this one, and usually I don’t question The Hoodie (unless it comes to sitting Malcolm in the Super Bowl). But I have to question this decision from an outsider’s standpoint.

It has been speculated that not only Tom, but other Patriot players have reached out to Alex for help with battling injuries or his health methods. Guys like Jimmy G, Gronk, Julian Edelman, and now Malcolm Mitchell have been reported as other players seeking for Guerrero’s guidance and methods. Don’t get me wrong, I can understand Bill’s perspective behind banning Alex from the locker room because he doesn’t want to undermine the trainers. But guess what Bill: TIMES CHANGE, METHODS CHANGE, THINGS CHANGE. If certain guys want to enhance their health and ability to perform on the field and for the good of the team, then let them. Nothing wrong with new methods.

Malcolm Mitchell, Julian Edelman, and Rob Gronkowski do have something in common with Tom Brady, and that is INJURIES. These three guys knew beforehand about Tom tearing his ACL and also being 40 years of age, yet still playing at the highest level imaginable. Why wouldn’t these guys want to seek help from the same man who put Tom’s health and training over the edge? With Julian tearing his ACL too, and the numerous injuries Gronkowski has sustained, why wouldn’t they want to get better and improve for the long-term? It’s a NO BRAINER! Let these guys do what they have to do! And let’s immediately get them some avocado ice cream!

 

photo credit- @OnlyInBos

Closing Argument

Since working with Guerrero, Tom Brady has been an absolute mad man. A man on a mission. An old dog still in the fight, and off his chain. The last thing I want to do is upset the Greatest of All Time. Brady has credited his recent success in large part to Alex and the worth ethic that he has. A no days off mentality, and boy has it showed. Tom is going to be 41 and is still THE BEST QB in the NFL.

I 100% back Tom in this decision and hope Bill doesn’t ruin relationships over Alex and his methods. Alex should just be hired by the team and  guys who want to train with him can do so. There’d be no chastising like Rob Gronkowski dealt with in a locker room incident. Tom, Bill, and Robert Kraft have built a legacy together here in New England. One can only assume they won’t let a trainer get in between that and ruin another Super Bowl run… Or a friendship

 

 

BOTTOM LINE- Dont piss off the GOAT !

 

 

Rob Gronkowski Is Back for Another Season

Leave a reply

Rob Gronkowski will be back for another season with the Patriots. The speculation comes after his Super Bowl comments about weighing his options out. According to ESPN, though, Rob Gronkowski will be in a Patriots uniform this season. The rift between him and Belichick still remains, however.

The “Patriot Way” Is Getting Old

Gronkowski likes to be taken out of his shell. Meaning having the power to do and say what he wants. Belichick didn’t like that Gronk told Amendola to be free and happy in a Instagram post. With everything mostly held in-house at One Patriot Place, some players are starting to get sick of the “Patriot Way”.

Bill’s way of doing things has been the same for 18 seasons. He’s brought five Super Bowls to New England and drafted the greatest quarterback of all time. However, players want to have more fun. Gronk wants to win, so as long as Brady returns, he’ll follow in suit. He won’t return next season for Belichick; he’ll be back because of Brady.

(AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)

Kraft confirmed the other day that there is tension between him and Belichick. However, there was more tension when Kraft first became the owner of the team. Let me say this- there’s no way he  would ever leave Brady stranded. He’s already lost Amendola, Edelman is coming back from injury, and who knows how Brandon Cooks will do.

 

Rob Gronkowski Is Tired of Belichick’s Orders

Via Bleacher ReportGronkowski and other players have tension with Belichick, but that’s not stopping Bill from doing what he thinks is best for the team. Bill has made appearances at the majority of combines and NFL camps this off-season. Why is that? Yes, because he loves the game, but there could be even something bigger happening. Bigger than just Gronkowski coming back.

Gronkowski will be back for at least two more years, as long as Brady keeps playing.

Patriots Acquire DT Danny Shelton from Browns

Leave a reply

Danny Shelton to the Pats

Cleveland’s fire sale shows no signs of ending. Earlier today John Dorsey and the Browns agreed to send defensive tackle Danny Shelton to the Patriots, per ESPN.

The Browns made headlines yesterday after their new GM Dorsey made three blockbuster trades. In the past 24 hours, Cleveland has jump-started their roster by bringing in Jarvis Landry, Tyrod Taylor, and Damarious Randall. The Browns’ front office is going all out to make moves in their pursuit to change their status in the NFL from chumps to champs.

The Patriots are bringing in Danny Shelton in pursuit to fix their pass rush woes. With Alan Branch out of the picture after the team denied his option, Shelton can carve his way into a starting role. In his three seasons in the NFL, Danny Shelton has 128 tackles (71 solo) and 1.5 sacks. He started for the Browns for 44 of the 46 games he was active. According to Pro Football Focus, Danny Shelton has a grade of 81.5, ranking in the upper percentile of defensive tackles. He is a huge value acquisition for the Patriots, considering that he only has a $3.7 million cap hit for the 2018 season. Shelton is the run-stuffing tackle that New England needs to correspond with their pass rush. He can be the support the defensive line needs to be able to get to opposing quarterbacks more often.

Courtesy of 247Sports

Cover image courtesy of waitingfornextyear.com.

Nobody Likes the Atmosphere at One Patriot Place

Leave a reply

Gronkowski on His Way Out?

(Pittsburg, PA, 12/17/17) New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski celebrates as he leaves the field after an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field on Sunday, December 17, 2017.Staff Photo by Nancy Lane

Rob Gronkowski was a huge asset in the second half of the Super Bowl. But rumors swirled when after the Super Bowl that Gronk was going to evaluate his future. Rob Gronkowski is rumored to be interested in the WWE, XFL, and movies.

Tom E. Curran from NBC Sports Boston said last night that Gronkowski was unhappy playing for the Patriots in 2017. Gronkowski almost retired at the start of Training Camp last season. He trained with Alex Guerrero, Brady’s trainer who was removed from the locker room and the sidelines. Tom Brady was the only player allowed to be treated by Guerrero in a separate room at Gillette Stadium. The rest, including Gronkowski, had to physically go to TB12 at Patriot Place to be treated.

Gronkowski can’t be himself either, like with the touchdown celebration earlier in the year. He said he wanted to talk about it, but “we’re told we can’t talk about celebrations”. The one he was talking about was when he was carrying Brandin Cooks on his back after a touchdown. Let’s face it- the atmosphere on the Patriots is centered around one person: Tom Brady. That has pissed off Belichick, who sat Butler in the Super Bowl and forced to trade Garoppolo. Gronkowski is mad he can’t train the way Brady is being trained. He has to walk to make an appointment at TB12.

Big Name Players Backing Their Teammates

Via SI.com

All of the big name players backing Malcolm Butler’s Instagram post about him missing meetings and curfew on Super Bowl week. Hightower, Brady, and Gronkowski all liked on Twitter or Instagram. That is a clear shot at Belichick and the atmosphere.

Brady Is Bigger Than the Team

Do you really think Brady is going to let Gronkowski, his only weapon in the red zone, just go to the WWE? I don’t think so, just like he didn’t let Josh McDaniels walk to the Colts. If Gronkowski moves on from the Patriots, there will be with a 41 year old quarterback who’s playing like he’s 30, Julian Edelman, who’s coming back from injury, Danny Amendola, and no big guy Gronkowski at tight end. The injuries for Gronk are only a small part of why he’ll step away. Most of it is because he can’t be himself.

 

Cover image courtesy of NBC Sports.

Two Pre-Free Agency Patriots 3-Round Mock Drafts

Leave a reply

The 2017-2018 season came and went in a blink of an eye. Even though Super Bowl 52 was only two weeks ago, we’re already suffering football withdrawals. Taking things day by day at the start of the NFL offseason is too tedious, so analysts and reporters enjoy looking toward the future. There are 164 grueling days between us and August. The 2018 NFL Draft and today are separated by 67 days. The start of free agency, our saving grace to get us through the waning moments of winter, is only 24 days away. On top of that, we are just a whopping nine days away until the NFL Combine. The only thing to do until then is to dream of what teams will look like in September. What will transpire in free agency? Better yet, who will each team draft?

The Patriots are at an important crossroads entering the offseason. There will be very little panic going into the 2018 season, but the team needs to set themselves up for the future. Tom Brady won’t get any younger, even though we’ve all been convinced that he can play forever. But pliability can only help for so long, and both Brady and New England’s defense can only bend for so long without breaking. The Patriots’ pass rush cannot go on in its current state without bringing in new talent. Also with defensive starters like Malcolm Butler presumably leaving us for new homes, the Patriots need to act quickly. Free agency can only dictate the state of the 2018 squad.

This year’s draft class boasts the most defensive talent we have seen in a long time. The Patriots have a chance to draft prospects that could make a difference down the road with their early picks. These mock drafts might be premature, but it will be updated as April rolls around the corner. It’s impossible to get into the heads of every front office in the league, especially right now. Some teams will look to address problems in free agency, and the rest will utilize the draft. The big board won’t come together until the Combine finishes up in early March. However, it’s great to have a baseline prediction on prospects. The following mock draft is updated from the one I made back in December. Fellow BSE writer Andrew Lykins will also give his insight on potential prospects in his three round draft after mine.

Mike Clement’s Mock Draft 2.0

Round 1 (Pick 31): Marcus Davenport, DE , UTSA

Pass rush is arguably the Patriots’ biggest problem going into the offseason. Part of the reason that New England possessed the 29th ranked defense in the league was because of their lack of pressuring opposing quarterbacks. The defense looked lost against mobile quarterbacks to say the least. Ever since Rob Ninkovich’s retirement last year the team has not found someone to line up parallel to Trey Flowers on the defensive line. Deatrich Wise Jr. and Eric Lee were formidable defensive ends this season, but they were not perfect.

After Dont’a Hightower’s season-ending injury, the linebacker corp did not look any better. Kyle Van Noy, Elandon Roberts, and Marquis Flowers held down the center of the defense, but also struggled on pressure. Roberts seemed to primarily play coverage and Van Noy rushed the gap a few times. Flowers, who will be a free agent, shined when pressuring the quarterback. James Harrison’s stint in New England was instrumental as well. The only problem is that he is nearing the end of his great career. Pass rush is a group effort. It isn’t one position’s responsibility.

In comes Marcus Davenport. Listed at a 4-3 outside linebacker, Davenport made his presence felt in 2017 against opposing quarterbacks. He finished four years at UTSA with 185 tackles and 21.5 sacks. The Conference USA might not be the most rigorous conference in college football, but Davenport was able to steamroll his way through offensive lines.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTyTQtQotzc

Davenport saw adversity at the Senior Bowl. He struggled a bit against the talent of other NFL prospects. However, he showed enough flashes of dominance to scouts to boost his draft stock. One of his highlights from the Senior Bowl was returning a fumble 19 yards for a score. The Combine will be his next test as he attempts to push into the NFL.

Round 2 (Pick 41): Mike Hughes, CB, UCF

Mike Hughes remains on my draft list. He’s been doubted by scouts due to his lack of consistency and experience in college. However, his speed helped him be a dominant number one cornerback for UCF during their perfect season. He can jam receivers at the line of scrimmage and has ball skills to pick passes off in man coverage. NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein places Hughes as New England’s first pick in the draft surprisingly. In his first mock draft Zierlein writes, “Hughes isn’t the biggest cornerback, but he has tremendous speed and twitch. He’s also an outstanding kick returner.” Hughes’s speed makes up for his size to be a tough cornerback.

I believe that Mike Hughes could drop to the early second round for New England to take him. There are about five or so higher ranked corners, but Hughes could help the Patriots’ foreseeable problems at corner.

Round 2 (Pick 63): Akrum Wadley, RB, Iowa

New England’s running back corps have fared well thus far. Josh McDaniels set up an offense last season that incorporated Dion Lewis as a primary runner and had Rex Burkhead and James White go wide for passes. Lewis had a career season in 2017, only making him more valuable as he enters the free agent market. Burkhead will be a free agent as well. Dion Lewis is more likely going to leave New England, meanwhile Burkhead might stay after having an under par year due to injury.

Akrum Wadley is the best of both worlds. At Iowa, he has exhibited his ability to excel in a passing offense. He also has the strength to push up the middle. What is most admirable about Wadley is his footwork and athletic ability.

Round 3 (Pick 95): Kyle Lauletta, QB, Richmond

Can Kyle Lauletta be the heir to Tom Brady’s throne? Possibly. Lauletta has been under the radar in Richmond, but has some great intangibles. In 2017, Lauletta racked up 3,737 yards with 28 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. He only started in his sophomore and junior years after switching over from lacrosse. Most scouts will disregard Lauletta as just another backup, but he has a lot of potential for Bill Belichick. Belichick loves lacrosse and will likely scavenge Lauletta’s film from high school.

Lauletta put on a show at the Senior Bowl. He threw three second-half touchdowns and was named Most Outstanding Player. He might not have the best arm but his production has risen in the past few years as he becomes more accustomed to football. His leadership and his passing on the move makes him an admirable target in the third round. If any team were to take him it would be the Patriots. He will do wonders working under Tom Brady for a year or two.

Andrew Lykins’s Mock Draft

The top four Patriots draft needs are: starting CB, tackle (either depth or starter depending upon Solder resigning), edge rush, and running back. The order of these needs will change depending upon the moves they will make in free agency. This pre-FA mock reflects on a few moves that I think will happen.

Round 1 (Pick 31) Marcus Davenport, DE, UTSA

I’m shooting for the stars with my first pick. The pass rush sorely needs to be upgraded. Derek Rivers, Trey Flowers and hopefully a veteran addition will be joined by the raw but talented small school product. I would also consider Sam Hubbard with this pick as well. I fully expect the Patriots to resign Solder for left tackle. If that doesn’t happen, this pick immediately changes to the best OT available. I would also consider cornerback, but the position is slightly deeper, so I opted for Davenport with this pick.

Credit to USA Today.

Round 2 (Pick 41 from 49ers) J.C. Jackson, CB, Maryland

Many people will think that this is a knee jerk reaction to losing Butler. I think we would be able to weather his loss with Cyrus Jones return as well as J.Jones returning. I want an upgrade though. If Eric Rowe and Gilmore are the presumptive #1-2 for 2018, I want a young talent to push them and provide depth for a strict outside press-man scheme. Would also consider a top flight RB if available (Guice, R.Jones, or Michel).

Credit to USA Today.

Round 2 (Pick 63) Luke Falk, QB, Washington State

Spending a day two pick on a quarterback has worked out well for us, and I see no reason to break this trend. The Patriots will continue to stock the talent at this position until Tom Brady makes it clear as to when he is hanging them up. I understand if you are not thrilled with this particular prospect, but the need is undeniable and I would rather get a good prospect sooner rather than later. I would go with best player available if he doesn’t test well and look to pick up a quarterback on day three.

Credit to The Seattle Times.

Round 3 (Pick 95) Ronald Jones, RB, USC

There are tons of high level running back prospects in this draft class, and that means that there will be some sliding of starting level talent. Free agency and the Combine will really serve to slot the prospects into their respective rankings. Ronald Jones is my favorite of the 1-2 tier that could slide. I would also consider Nick Chubbs, Kerryon Johnson, and Jaylen Samuels here as well.

Credit to the Daily Trojan.

 

Cover image courtesy of Sporting News.

Super Bowl LII Preview and Prediction

Leave a reply

Super Bowl LII

After all that developed during the 2017-2018 season, it will conclude with the two top-seeded teams squaring off in U.S. Bank Stadium. Fans and media have huddled around the drama, adversity and success (or lack thereof), of each NFL franchise since August. This year’s playoffs featured twelve teams which all had the potential to have their ticket to the Super Bowl punched. The Bills made their first playoff appearance in decades. Chiefs fans left Arrowhead Stadium disappointed after the Titans pulled off a comeback upset in the Wild Card. The Saints were one play away from advancing to the NFC Championship, until the Minneapolis Miracle happened. The postseason has been filled with surprises and highlights, but in the end, there can only be one victor.

On February 4th, the New England Patriots, and Philadelphia Eagles, will battle to make history. All thirty-two teams in the NFL share a common goal: to win the Super Bowl. Every franchise grinds from August to January to earn a spot in the playoffs. The twenty that fail to make it plan accordingly to ensure that they will be present in January next season. The Super Bowl is the mecca of the football world, where sports and entertainment collide. Numbers, statistics and odds circle around the media in the two week break between the Championship games and the Super Bowl. This guide contains for betting on an array of props in the Super Bowl, ranging from points scored to the color of Gatorade poured on the winning coach.

Super Bowl LII- Patriots vs. Eagles: Three Things to Know

1. Experience is Key

Nick Foles will be making his first Super Bowl appearance, to add to his four postseason starts, in his six year career. Though impressive, it is a ninth of Tom Brady’s thirty-six starts in the playoffs. This will be Brady’s eighth Super Bowl appearance in his career, he has only lost in two of them. Coincidentally, the last time the Eagles appeared in the Super Bowl was in 2004, and they lost to none other than Tom Brady and the Pats. Fast forward fourteen years, both teams are completely different except for Bill Belichick and Tom Brady leading New England.

Brady and Belichick might have the upper edge with Super Bowl experience, but they have not faced the Eagles since 2015. Head coach, Doug Pederson, is a crafty play caller and defensive coordinator. Jim Schwartz coaches a young and hungry defense, that leads the league in defensive scoring. Nick Foles might be rattled in his first few drives in a Super Bowl environment, but the Eagles’ planning prior to kickoff could cause a few surprises.

2. Offensive Maestros

Nick Foles unexpectedly became a starter for the Eagles late into the season, after Carson Wentz suffered an ACL injury. He started out rusty the first few games, but was able to pull out a win in each of his starts, except for one. Foles is a talented veteran, and a scary backup, to have on a team. He picked up right where Wentz left off, with little turbulence.

Carson Wentz might have locked up the first seed in the playoffs for the Eagles, but it’s no fluke that Foles has gotten the team to the Super Bowl. In the NFC Championship, Foles tore apart the Vikings’ stingy defense. He posted 352 passing yards, and three touchdowns, in a blowout victory. The Eagles’ running back trio of Jay Ajayi, LaGarrette Blount, and Corey Clement, are all great weapons for Foles to utilize in the backfield as well. The Eagles’ boast a stacked receiving corp as well. Wrapping up the offense, Lane Johnson and his o-line, are one of the best in the league.

The opposing offense is extremely resilient. The Patriots are missing multiple starters to injury, but still cannot seem to lose. Dion Lewis is having a career year at the team’s primary running back position. Rob Gronkowski, whose availability is up in the air at the moment, can be a spark to the offense on every drive. Both Brandin Cooks and Danny Amendola, are posting career numbers in the playoffs. Amendola has been a key receiver in the playoffs, and came in clutch on Sunday against the Jaguars.

However, only one team has Tom Brady. He has mounted a whopping eight postseason comebacks, upon a plethora more in the regular season. He completed an MVP-worthy season, without one of his best receivers, and an occasionally faulty offensive line. Only Brady could make a season like this look like a clinic.

3. Protect the Throne

Coming into this year, almost everyone expected the Patriots to make a deep playoff run. No one held the Eagles to the same standard. The Eagles are hungry for a Super Bowl trophy. Despite losing their starting quarterback, they came out swinging in every playoff match-up. They are not scared of Tom Brady, or the Patriots, but rather they are excited to dethrone them:

The Eagles want nothing more than to have a repeat of the beat-down they gave to the Vikings. Though they are the one seed in the NFC, they were written off in the Divisional Round. The Eagles embraced their underdog role, and played their hearts out throughout the playoffs. Now in the Super Bowl, the odds are against them once again. This time, however, they will battle one of the most methodical teams in the NFL. The Patriots are elite because of the preparation they put into each game. Their game-plan changes depending on what team they face. They have two weeks to study film, and see how the Eagles play. Bill Belichick is amazing at pointing out teams’ weaknesses, so it is safe to say the Patriots will be ready. We’ll all have to see how this match-up fares out on Super Bowl Sunday.

Prediction: 33-24 Patriots

 

Cover image courtesy of PennLive.com.