Belichick: `a better team'

FOXBOROUGH -- You don't expect Patriots coach Bill Belichick to take the podium and announce, "We had a lousy draft." Not after eight picks over two days and the previous acquisitions of veteran running back Corey Dillon and restricted free agent defensive lineman Rodney Bailey.

"I think we're a better football team than we were," Belichick said. "We have to play better and come together and do a good job from a team standpoint. But I think we've improved our team. It doesn't mean we're not still working on it. It doesn't mean there won't be roster adjustments between now and the start of the season, but I think now we've taken advantage of our opportunities to do it.

"Overall, I thought the draft went pretty well. I thought it was well-balanced with our five defensive selections, and offensively we got good value at skilled positions. I think we'll have a good competitive situation."

For the first time since 1997, the Patriots decided not to take part in any draft day trades, feeling there was good value where they were selecting. Belichick expects to receive compensatory picks in next year's draft for free agent losses Damien Woody and Ted Washington, but unless there's a deal for Ty Law, the Patriots won't be stockpiling selections.

Getting started

The newcomers are due to start a three-day rookie camp Friday . . . The Patriots didn't draft a quarterback, as is their custom. They may sign a veteran before training camp. Last year's backup, unrestricted free agent Damon Huard, has not signed with anyone . . . With no linebackers taken, Belichick would not comment on whether the team will shift Dan Klecko to a linebacker spot permanently. The Patriots also did not draft an offensive lineman to help fill Woody's void.