Samuel return discussed

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Cornerback Asante Samuel and his representatives have discussed a plan for him to return to the Patriots, possibly next week, according to a source involved with the discussions.

Agent Alonzo Shavers said he had not spoken to Samuel in the last 24 hours, so a final decision has not been made.

Samuel will likely return without gaining any concession from the Patriots, such as a promise not to use the franchise tag on him again next year.

Samuel has remained away from training camp, which started July 27, after being designated the team's franchise player in the offseason, upset that a long-term contract has not been reached. In holding out, he voiced his displeasure and limited his risk to injury, but ultimately will end up with the same deal he could have signed months ago. Samuel had said he planned to hold out until the 10th week of the season, but the discussions are a sign Samuel doesn't intend to follow through on his threat. Holding out until the 10th week is the minimum amount of time he can play to earn another year toward his pension.

As the franchise player, Samuel has a one-year, $7.79 million contract. But he preferred a longer deal, which could have included bonuses more than double $7.79 million.

The deadline for franchise players to reach long-term deals was July 16 and the sides did not come close to reaching a deal. After that date, franchise players can only sign one-year contracts, and Samuel's side seemed to change its tone, with Shavers noting "we all have the same goal -- for Asante to be in camp on time, or as close to on time as we can possibly have it."

Because players don't receive their salary until the regular season starts, Samuel wasn't missing out on the $7.79 million by staying away in training camp. Veterans earn $1,100 per week in training camp, plus an additional $200 on game weeks.

In plotting his return, Samuel realizes he will need some time to prepare for the season opener Sept. 9 against the Jets. The Patriots plan to shift toward heavier regular-season preparation starting Monday.

The Patriots have had Ellis Hobbs and Randall Gay as their starting cornerbacks, with first-round pick Brandon Meriweather the nickel back. Veteran Tory James, rookie Mike Richardson (a sixth-round draft choice), and Dante Wesley round out the depth chart.

Assuming he can get up to speed, Samuel would likely overtake Gay at left cornerback.