Kicking off a new season

Welcome back to "Ask Nick." I have to say that I was overwhelmed by the several hundred e-mails I received here in Week One. Glad to be back after an off-season hiatus in which I had the pleasure to return to my old beat - the Red Sox.

The good news is the quality of the questions continues to be unbelievable. The bad news is, I can't answer all of them and for that I apologize. What I hope to do in the interest of fairness, is to answer as many as time will allow. That will mean shorter responses, so I hope you understand. I try to take a cross section of topics as well as a cross section of the country and the world, but I'll always answer more questions from the New England region.

In the future if I have not answered one of your questions for couple of weeks, rest assured it's not because I've ignored you because I do read every question. Please insert a note saying "Nick, you haven't answered one of my questions for a couple of weeks" and I will make a special effort to post your question with an answer. There will be times I don't know the answer, and I will write that because I certainly don't claim to know everything.

You can certainly e-mail me at Cafardo@Globe.com if you would like to receive an individual answer.

Let me also add, that as someone who is not an "Internet person" I am truly impressed with the professionalism shown by the e-mailers. It shows me that Patriots fans are very knowledgeable, smart, and classy people.

Let's move on to other topics:

1. Running backs. The majority of questions this week were about the concern of the running back situation. On Thursday, the Patriots released information that Mike Cloud, the former Boston College star, had undergone surgery. It appears to be on his calf and he'll miss a good chunk of the season. Cloud had looked pretty well in drills, but as has been reported, he would not have been able to play until the fifth game of the season due to a suspension for testing positive for a banned supplement. This leaves the Pats with Antowain Smith, Kevin Faulk, J.R. Redmond (who has also been hurt), and Antwoine Womack, who hasn't been on the field yet as he completes the rehab of his ACL innury which kept him out of last season. Do the Patriots have enough at this position? Don't be surprised to see someone added, but I think they're going with Smith with Faulk getting a lot of reps. Question is can Redmond make a splash?

2. Team speed. The Patriots have improved their overall team speed, according to Bill Belichick. Is it Tampa Bay or Philadelphia speed? Don't think so. Belichick does agree it is better than last year, and that's great news.

3. Gillette Stadium. Having the camp at Gillette appears to be more convenient for most fans rather than Bryant College in Smithfield, R.I., but there have been some fans who lived closer to Smithfield, who feel it's inconvenient for them. There are obviously better facilities here, with state-of-the-art weight rooms and meeting rooms, etc. Not to mention the staff here is setting up the stage for the Bruce Springsteen concert this weekend.

4. Who do I like so far?

Ty Warren looks like a solid young player who should be decent when he learns how to play in this league.

You see by my responses to questions about Daniel Graham, that I feel he's going to be a very good player in this league.

Rookie receiver Bethel Johnson is really fast.

I get the feeling free-agent receiver Dedric Ward is going to have a big role on this team.

Rosevelt Colvin is really disruptive on the field. He's been in Tom Brady's face a few times all ready.

Brady's shoulder is fine. Don't worry about that.

Good to see Troy Brown healthy.

Yes, the workouts are not nearly as demanding as they were back in the Tuna Days. But they are very organized.

There's still some concern about injuries on the offensive line, but Brendan Sai and Bill Conaty provide nice depth at guard and center.

Celebrity restaurant review

In tribute to the great season by the Sox:

Jerry Trupiano, Red Sox radio broadcaster: "Acapulco" in Franklin. Jerry loves the steak fajitas.

Joe Castiglione, Red Sox radio broadcaster: "Luciano's" in Foxboro. Joe usually goes there with former Red Sox manager Joe Morgan. They love the appetizers and the chicken with olives in pasta. Joe also loves "Barker Tavern" in Scituate, where he has the swordfish and an ice cream puff for dessert.

Don Orsillo, NESN play-by-play: McCormick & Schmick in Boston at the Park Plaza: Don loves the lobster and the raspberry crème brûlée.

Jerry Remy, NESN color: "Capital Grille" in Boston. Jerry dreams about the Porterhouse steak, done medium-well.

Here's the mailbag.

ADVERTISEMENT

Do you agree with the article that says the Pats have one of the deepest LB corps in the league? I think they are good, but top five? Come on.
-- John Murray, Weymouth

A: They could be. Colvin puts them in that company. They have a lot of experience and a bunch of guys who play hard. They have some age on them and they're not as fast as some units except for Colvin, and that could be a concern.

Why do the Pats have so much trouble finding a good running back and fullback? I have been a Pats fan from day one and they have only had a couple.
-- Paul Burke Sr., Palm Coast, Fla.

A: It's quite a legacy isn't it? It's amazing to me they haven't rushed for four yards a carry since the 1985 season.

Do you see Kevin Faulk as an every-down back in New England some day? Smith struggled last year and Faulk showed signs of greatness. How hard is it to go from a third-down back to an every-down back? I think if given the chance again, he might be the answer to the Patriots running game problems. I'm not knocking Smith as a running back but if Faulk is producing and Smith isn't, why wouldn't you put him in as a starter?
-- Jeff Hanouille, Southwick

A: Faulk will get will likely get more hand-offs, but I think the feeling is he wouldn't be able to withetand the pounding of 20 carries per game. I'm not sure I agree with that, either. He's pretty strong. He has a great attitude and he deserves the chance to be the No. 1 guy based on his contributions to the team.

If the Patriots chose to keep Mike Cloud, does he take up a roster spot when he is on suspension?
-- Bill McIsaac, Brookline

A: No. He's placed on a suspended/reserve type list until he's ready to return. Similar situation to Terry Glenn's drug suspension a couple of years ago. However, as we've reported, Cloud had surgery on his calf and it's doubtful he'll be ready by then anyway.

I'd appreciate a qualifying anecdote to what I believe is a significant local sports story: Ted Johnson, All-Pro when healthy, regarding his success in overcoming the "NFL grind," as well as coach Belichick's demoralizing benching early last season. All of us would do well to handle our business affairs as well as he did-his two-day sabbatical not withetanding. In my opinion, Johnson is a model of integrity and perseverance within the constraints and rigors of professional football, and New England fans have been fortunate to have him compete for and lead the Pats these many years. His breed, professional athletes equally endowed with brains and brawn, who manage to be affable, intelligent, and appreciative of their good fortune, are ever in short supply. For that, I'm certain he'll be missed when his "hat" is finally dusted and boxed.
-- Brian McHugh, Santa Monica, Calif.

A: Classy guy. He handled that very well; came out of it with his dignity. Not to mention the fact he's in great shape and he looks like he's added a couple of years to his career.

Nick, Do you know what happened to Kevin Watson, the DL from Occidental? I thought the Pats had signed him as an undrafted free agent back at the end of April. He sounded like he had good size and given the Pats need for a NT, I was wondering why he doesn't show up on the Pats roster anywhere. There is also no info out there to indicate that they cut him.
-- Greg Timbol, Boxborough

A: He was let go on May 5th.

What was the internal attitude to the running back situation? Were there any draftees they were interested in? Was Justin Fargas ever considered? Do you think Antwoine Womack has a chance to start? Who do you think will be taking most snaps in December?
-- Peter Sununu, Los Angeles, Calif.

A: The coaches and staff felt they could change a few plays and formations and get better production that way. I know they liked McGahee, but they never got to him because Buffalo selected him in the first round. They felt they had other needs, including wide receiver Bethel Johnson.

I have been a die hard patriots fan since I was 14 years old. I was very happy to see the acquisition of Colvin in the linebacker spot, but I am very concerned about the running back position. There were virtually no changes on the offensive line and none in the backfield. Where do you see our running game going this year?
-- Don Warner, Paramount, Calif.

A: I think the hope for the running game is that they can return to the form of two years ago. Antowain Smith had a very good year then, running for tough yardage when he needed it most. I think they'll find some creative ways to use Kevin Faulk more. I don't think it will ever be a huge strength, but the hope is they can run just enough to create a threat of the run in the opposition.

Nick, This could be the toughest, most competitive group of teams in the AFC East ever. Who do you honestly think is best positioned to win the East this year? I guess I'm asking for your prediction.
-- Peter O'Keefe, San Francisco, Calif.

A: On paper, Miami. They are loaded with up to nine Pro Bowlers on defense, they have the best running back (Rickey Williams) and now they have excellent protection at quarterback with Brian Griese.

Congratulations on a new season of Ask Nick! Last year was a smashing success, I thought. I enjoyed your e-column very much and looking forward to your analysis on the new 3-4 defense and the running back contest during Patriots camp. Speaking of, will you be attending the Patriots pre-season workouts on a daily basis? It would be great if you could provide the Ask Nick faithful with a Patriots pre-season journal. In closing, good luck this year and what do you think contributed to your success last year particularly as it relates to online sports journalism?
-- Kelly Henderson, Webster

A: I'm new to "internet journalism" as you call it, but it's fun to answer so many questions from Patriots fans around the world. It tells you not only how popular the Patriots are, but the scope of Boston.com. I'll be tackling different issues as we go along, but I'm looking forward to the pre-season games just so we can get a better idea of how the Patriots' first team goes up against the first teams of the Giants, Eagles, Redskins, and Bears.

Hey, Nick, fess up: is Bill Belichick the worst interview on earth? I've heard earth worms with more to say. I admit the medication is working and I hear them (the worms) less often but...come on! I've never heard a quote for Bill worth hearing. I want to go on the record as an overall Bill supporter (the guy is brilliant and entertaining on the field) but is he as bad as he seems in an interview?
-- Scotty Shannon, Calgary, Ga.

A: I think every occupation has obstacles. The sports journalism business is all about information. And sometimes that information is hard to get. Bill is a very popular coach and I don't think the average fan cares whether he speaks to the media or not. If I were a season-ticket holder spending huge amounts of money, I would want more information about the team, but there's no human outcry about the lack of information from the fans that I can see. It seems to me if they win a Super Bowl the team can falter for a few years before there's an outcry.

I know Otis Smith is very experienced, but doesn't anyone else out there want some speed on our defense? Also don't you think Deion Branch is a better option at No. 2 than Patten? And when do you think the right time is to let Daniel Graham start?
-- Andrew Johnson, Groton, Conn.

A: I think speed is a very important issue in the NFL today. I think the teams that have it, especially on defense - the Bucs, the Eagles, the Ravens, and now the Bills -- seem to have a good chance of dominating. But there's something to do be said for the experience of an Otis Smith. The Patriots, who have improved their speed, won the Super Bowl with a shutdown defense. They weren't the fastest, but they were the toughest. As for Deion Branch, I would say the Patriots would love to see Branch overtake Patten as the No. 2 guy, but that remains to be seen. Graham should probably start, if not right away, then sometime during the season. He could be a special player if he stays healthy.

What are your thoughts about putting Damien Woody at guard and having Daniel Koppen, the draft pick from BC, at center?
-- Bill Perry, Dudley

A: I don't think Koppen is ready for that. I think he'll be a good player, but give him a season to get his feet wet. Woodey is a terrific center, and he's been doing some successful shotgun snapping so perhaps they will allow him to stay at center this season.

Nick, wow, another exciting year to look forward to! I've been a big fan and this is my first time writing to you so here goes: the Patriots first four games are against some pretty tough defenses. Do you think we'll actually be able to put a running game together in time for our season opener at Buffalo?
-- Mike Maccini, Santa Monica, Calif.

A: The one good thing about playing Buffalo off the bat is that you're going to have two guys who are going to be motivated to beat their old teams in Antowain Smith and Larry Centers. Smith always seems to have good games against the Bills, and I know Centers is upset at the way the Bills let him go this off-season.

As a very long time Patriot fan, I was very pleased to see the Pats draft Derek Watson. I know about the baggage but he the best back I had seen and all everything in South Carolina. Last chance for him but he was cut before camp. What happened?
-- Bill Clendenin, Pawleys Island, S.C.

A: As best as I could piece together, they had him around for a while and they just realized his chances of overtaking Smith, Faulk, Redmond, and Womack were a longshot at best.

Does Bruce Armstrong wear two different size shoes? I know this sounds weird, but I won a pair of "game used" cleats at auction from a reputable source (NFL Auctions) and the left shoe is at least one size bigger than the right. By the way, welcome back! Your mailbag is one of the best sources of info for a military fan away from New England.
-- Kevin Stewart, Harrisburg, Penn.

A: I always heard that Bruce had one foot bigger than the other. There are other players in the same boat. There are also times when a player has swelling and needs a bigger shoe, but I think you've now confirmed that his feet were different sizes.

Does Antwoine Womack, Mike Cloud, or Kevin Faulk have any chance to take over the starting running back job?
-- Patrick Foley, Windham, Maine

A: I wouldn't rule out Faulk. I think Womack would have to come a long way. Mike Cloud has looked good, and maybe if the running game is faltering by Week 5. I thought Cloud would get a shot, but not after his calf surgery.

Nick, Really enjoy this Q&A interactive format, and looking forward to following all season. Speaking of looking forward, where do you see the Patriots' looking in the 2004 draft, especially since they have another year of numerous picks. Don't want to look past this season, but next year's draft could cement several years of dominance in the league.
-- Jim Pendergast, Lynn

A: I would think this would be the year where they go after a top running back. We're a long way from that and maybe the running game will be terrific, but if it isn't, then you have to think running back first.

Nick, love this chat. I am concerned with the O-line. What are your thoughts?
-- Mark Dresner, White Plains, N.Y.

A: I'm concerned with some injuries there, especially to Joe Andruzzi and Kenyatta Jones has been slow getting back from double-knee surgery, but I'll say this, I think because the line has been together for about three years and I think the hope is the familiarity will serve them well. I like what I see from Matt Light. It looks as though he's much more assertive out there in practice.

Nick, Last year you offered an impressive positional analysis of where the Pats needed to upgrade through the draft and free agency. It differed from the conventional wisdom and I felt it was insightful. I thought you had listed offensive guard as the number one position to upgrade. Do I remember that correctly? What is your feeling on the current status of the offensive line? I realize Bill & Co. could not have known that Stephen Neal would still be injured.
-- Dave Pomerantz, Marshfield

A: I think guard is a key position because they have older players in Mike Compton, and Andruzzi who has had some injuries there. I like the veteran pickups of Bill Conaty and Brendan Stai, from the standpoint that they are serviceable veterans who can step in and play if need be. I think Neal was coming on to the point where he could have been special. I think he's a big loss.

Nick: What's the current status of Antwoine Womack? Do you think if they knew in April 2002 what they know now they'd still use that pick for him again? Is his knee OK? Can he cut on it? Did he take the conditioning test? pass it? Is he not practicing for medical reasons, conditioning reasons, or phsycological reasons? Rehab / PT? Maybe I'm too impatient but it seems like Robert Edwards came back faster from a worse injury.
-- Marc Stringer, Connersville, Ind.

A: Womack was worth the gamble. I don't know how good he can be, and I'm not sure the Patriots know. They're being cautious with him, and why not? He's come off a big injury and right now with Smith, Faulk, and Redmond ahead of him, better to be sure than sorry. I know they used him a bit at fullback during the June mini-camp and seem to like what he can do out of that position.

Nick, Certainly the Pats have improved on defense. The real question is have they improved their offensive line enough to run the ball consistently. Any thoughts?
-- Tim Hurlburt, Cambridge

A: I can't say they have improved. I think Smith is very serious (after failing the conditioning run) this camp. I think he's working hard. As I wrote earlier, just return to the form of two years ago and that will be enough.

I don't see how the most glaring need from last season -- nose tackle -- has been addressed. Warren, Seymour, Green, Pleasant, and Hamilton are all optimal ends in the 3-4. Klecko and Kelley are true but longshot rookies. Clearly, with the massive upgrade in team speed and quickness on both sides of the ball there is some plan, but how can it make up for this hole in the middle of the D?
-- Timothy Cardozo, New York, N.Y.

A: You're right. There isn't one guy who solved the problem for them. So, unless a nose tackle falls from the sky, they'll use a bunch of guys (led by Jarvis Green) and hope they can use their ability to scheme to cover up what they may lack in size and experience in the middle of the line.

Hey, Nick, great to have you back! How much do you think the 3-4 alignment will effect our opponents in the AFC East? And considering our apparent depth at linebacker, and in our secondary, have we done enough to secure a solid nose tackle? While Seymour could always move in, I'd like to see Klecko in that role. He seems to be a good fit there. What do you think? Go Patriots!
-- Mark Koupe, East Boston

A: Mark, I think any Romeo Crennel scheme is going to confuse the opponent somewhat. Crennel doesn't get enough credit for the work he does in scheming on defense. The 3-4 allows the Patriots to take advantage of their better athletes on the field. If the nose can tie up the center, then one of the linebackers can come up and make big plays. I think Klecko can help there some, but we're already seeing Crennel move him around. It sort of reminds me of when Tedy Bruschi came up and Parcells tried him as a pass rushing end and a sometime linebacker.

I have heard that the Patriots are considering adding Larry Centers to the roster. What is the latest and what is your opinion of that move? How do you think that would effect Kevin Faulk?
-- Harvey Eaton, Bedford, N.H.

A: Centers, of course, has been signed and I think they'll use Centers and Faulk much like this team used Meggett and Byars in 1996. They'll both get their playing time and be out there in obvious passing situations. The great thing about Centers is that he's an excellent pass blocker.

Thanks for answering my question Nick, I am a diehard Pats fan living in Florida. I am a little worried in the receiver deptartment after Troy Brown, who is going to step up, David Patten is up and down, and Branch seems to drop to many balls. And Bethel Johnson is the rookie. Who do you see making the impact to take it to the next level? Thanks again, I enjoy reading your stuff very much.
-- Jeffrey Goss, Kissimmee, Fla.

A: I think you have to cross your fingers here. If Branch stays healthy, he's going to be terrific. Bethel Johnson looks fast and has quite a burst out of the box, but veteran DBs may tie him up at the line until he gains experience. I'll tell you one guy who's looking pretty good and appears to be making a bid for surprise of camp - David Givens. The second-year Notre Dame receiver had one of the best off season workouts of the winter. He'll make the team as a special teamer, but he's making noise as a receiver.

Nick, Great to have you back. I do not recall New England having a Double Barrel Defense since the days of Don Blackmon and Andre Tippett. Do you think the pass rush which the Pats can apply from both the left and right side and from the DE and OLB in combo will cause major problems for the opponents offenses? This will be very interesting.
-- Fred Rider, Agawam

A: Just to hear Belichick gush over Colvin tells you he has big plans for him as a pass rusher. You can see it in practice sometime when Colvin is rushing and disrupting Brady. I think he'll be fun to watch, and I think Colvin will help Willie McGinest draw fewer double teams so maybe he can get a few sacks as well. They definitely upgraded their pass rush. Now we have to find out whether they upgraded their run defense.

Nick, I think we all know by now that it doesn't matter how good your defense is you cannot win in the NFL if you can't control the ball, by running, or by sustaining offense, unless you have a miraculous turnover ratio. How will the Pats sustain offense this season? How can they prevent the defense from having to be yeomen-like? Can Belichik open things up a bit with the new contract, a more seasoned quarterback, a creative offensive coordinator, and a Super Bowl victory under his belt?
-- Thomas P. Killay, Warwick, R.I.

A: This offense can score points. I think Brady is very accurate and can get the ball in good spots to his receivers. A healthy Troy Brown is going to make a big difference, and Branch has a chance to be a deep threat along with Bethel Johnson. Tom Brady has to show he can throw the deep ball, and if he can, that will open up what they really would rather do and that is moving the ball with a medium range passing game.

Nick, How long do you think the Patriots will keep the 3-4 as the base defense considering the lack of experience at nose tackle and defensive end. I think it would make sense to have the youngsters play with at least two experienced defensive linemen. By putting Warren on the field with Seymour you have your top athletic linemen on the field, but I think the leadership and experience of Bobby Hamilton and Anthony Pleasant is needed for the Patriots to be sucessful. Maybe combine Warren and Klecko in the middle with Seymour and Hamilton/Pleasant/McGinest on the outside?
-- Eric J. Moss, Warwick, R.I.

A: I think they're committed to the 3-4. Now will they change it up occasionally and use a 4-3? Absolutely. The Patriots defense is all about trickery. They confuse offenses. They're not the fastest team, so they do other things to get the edge. They're a smart defense.

Ted Johnson and Willie McGinest have had their ups and downs the last three years. Are they poised to make a big impact this year, or are they more likely to be walking off into the sunset?
-- Tim Griffin, Bangor, Maine

A: Willie has been hurt and hasn't been on the field, but Ted Johnson looks great. When healthy, he's a very good run-stopper and now he has the added help, not only from Bruschi, but from Roman Phifer who has moved inside. As I wrote earlier, Willie could really benefit from Colvin, much as he did when Chris Slade was here.

Nick, Priest Holmes is a small running back. Why is Kevin Faulk labled a third-down back? He is about the size of Curtis Martin and is actually kind of big for a guy of his height.
-- Eric J. Moss, Warwick, R.I.

A: Stereotypes die hard. That's what the Patriots coache's see him as. But I don't think they'll be afraid to use him if something happens to Smith.

Nick, I am 34 years old and have been a Patriot fan since I was 5. I was born and raised up in N.Y. but have been living in Florida for the past 16 years. I am so tired of hearing about how Dan Klecko is too small to be NT. There are many undersized NT's that have done exceptionally well in the NFL. The guy was Big East Player of the Year. This guy will prove all the critics wrong without a doubt. How long do you think it will take him to crack the starting lineup? Or do you agree with everyone else that he is too small and will change positions?
-- Jimmy Mackin, Cape Coral, Fla.

A: Jimmy, I don't know yet. But when I see that Belichick is moving him around, I wonder if he thinks he might be too small? I think they see Klecko as a a guy who can be disruptive from different places on the defense, sort of like a secret weapon where you don't know where he's coming from from down to down.

How are the Pats' backup QB's looking? Who looks the best and could any step in if Tom went down?
-- John Pappas, San Diego, Calif.

A: Very interesting question. Rohan Davey has looked sharp and has a real chance to unseat Damon Huard as the backup. The pre-season games will tell a better story. I'm very impressed with Kliff Kingsbury. He looks like a kid who's been playing football all his life. Very natural, smooth and he knows what he's doing. This kid threw for more than 5,000 yards last year at Texas Tech, so he's very comfortable throwing the football.

Where are the Patriots staying during camp?
-- Joe Vieira, Milford

A: I am not allowed to disclose the exact location, but it's a hotel within a five-mile radius of the stadium.

Nick, Last year was disappointing when the Pats missed the playoffs. Once you get in, anything can happen. Do you think we have enough to make it to the tournament this year? The "experts" are saying Miami will win the division. I'm not sure they are a lock. How many wild cards will come out of the East this year?
-- Dan O'Hara, Derry, N.H.

A: Unfortunately, They're in a division where the four teams are going to knock each other off. I don't see a big win total for three of the teams - probably similar to last season where there's three teams at 9-7 or 8-8, and maybe one team that gets up to 10 games and makes the playoffs. I think their best bet is to win the division and get in that way. They need to be the 10-6 team. If they're 9-7, they leave themselves in the same boat as last year where they have to rely on outside forces to get them in.

Hi, Nick. It's good to see you getting back to the groove on the new season. It seems like, on paper, that all the teams in the AFC East have gotten better with the off season acquisitions. I believe the AFC East is the toughe'st division in the NFL, and there is no clear cut who would come out on top. What are your thoughts on the Patriots with its divisional rivals??
-- Nam Le, New York, N.Y.

A: I like all four teams, I really do. I think Miami might be a little better than New England, Buffalo, and the Jets. I know the Jets lost a lot of players, but I think they're very talented on defense and they have an outstanding young QB and proven running back. The Bills are still a bit of an unknown, but I get the feeling they're going to have an excellent defense, and then it becomes a question of whether Drew Bledsoe can control the ball on offense and still score.

Now that training camp has begun, and we know it's early, do you see at least some indication that the team has the "no individuals, this is a team" attitude they had two years ago? I think myself and many others feel that was one of the main ingrediants missing last year.
-- Leo Crepeau, Colarado Springs, Colo.

A: I see that more than ever. I recently wrote a piece about the good characters the Patriots have. Pioli and Belichick have been very successful in bringing in good people, who have that team motto inside them. Now, you have to have talent and tangible things like speed and strength, but I don't think this team will ever lay down. If they lose, it's because they were beat by the better team that day, not because they didn't come to play.

Nick, Good to have your column back. My question: where do you think Lawyer Milloy's mind and body are at at this point in his career? Do you see him coming out and having a good year? He seemed MIA during certain games last year.
-- Mike Cote, Amesbury

A: I think Lawyer will have an excellent season. I think having a guy like Rodney Harrison back there with him will create kind of a mini-rivalry as to which guy can hit the hardest. Lawyer didn't take kindly to the reports that he was "getting old" and trade talks involving him and the Saints. He's a player with a lot of fire, and you'll see that once again.

Why do the Pats give out such cap unfriendly numbers to people like Law and Milloy? They give out the big numbers and then try to renegotiate every year. Why not back load or rear end load the contracts in the first place? The players feel like they deserve the numbers but it just adversely affects the salary cap.
-- Robert B Casey, Dana Point, Calif.

A: First of all, I love Dana Point. Nice spot. As for Law and Milloy, at the time they were seeking big contracts the team had no choice but to negotiate high numbers. I think every agent or player knows that when they reach that fourth year of the deal, the number gets too high and its usually negotiated down. In the case of Law and Milloy, both represented by an excellent agent, Carl Poston, he doesn't believe his clients should take any cut in pay at this stage of their careers. Hard to argue with that. Both players are vital to the success of the team, unless the Patriots believe that youngsters like Eugene Wilson and Asante Samuel can step up and replace them at some point.

Can Dan Klecko really be a nose tackle in a two-gap system? Isn't he too small? I think he's going to be blown off the line and turn out to be a wasted draft pick. Why didn't the Patriots go after one of the several behemoth-type free agent nose tackles? Any of them would have been better than Jarvis Green/Klecko. Also, do you see Ty Law and/or Lawyer Milloy gone next season because of their ballooning contracts and their agent's (same guy) clearly stated unwillingness to renegotiate any type of pay cut?. P.S. Please don't publish any more Drew Bledsoe vs. Tom Brady letters, they're getting very boring! People, let it go!
-- Anthony Salerno, Los Angeles, Calif.

A: Let me answer part of this because I've answered a lot of Klecko questions. I'm not sure why they didn't go after an established nose tackle. That one's a mystery to all of us. They had a chance, again, to take Sam Adams, but they allowed him to sign with Buffalo feeling Adams isn't always motivated to play hard. They wanted to draft a nose tackle, but once they decided not to pursue a deal with either Chicago or Detroit to move up to take DeWayne Robertson, they found that a bunch of teams were taking linemen and they went with a guy (Warren) who at least knows the 3-4. I agree they did not fill their most pressing need, but Belichick and Crennel must believe they can use different combinations in the middle to offset the absence of a big body. For the time being all we can do is believe they know what they're doing.

Living in Arizona, I don't get as much Patriots news as I would if I still lived in Boston. Could you please tell me some of the differences we may see in the Pats of this year compared to last. Also,how do you think Branch will do this year after showing all of that early promise last year only to fade in the second half of the season?
-- Patrick Murphy Tempe, Ariz.

A: You should see a better pass rush (Colvin) and you should see the team be able to stop the run. Last season they made an unfortunate signing in Steve Martin, feeling he could be their big run stooper, and it didn't work out. Adding Ty Warren and Dan Klecko should help. Branch should be a stud.

Do you think the Patriots will be playoff contenders this year and make the Super Bowl? Do you think Tom Brady will have a tremendous year?
-- Mike Dean Uxbridge, Mass.

A: Playoff contenders? Yes. Super Bowl? Hard to tell. I never worry about Brady. He's an excellent quarterback.

Should the Pats even bother with Tyrone Poole? This guy needs to see a shrink! He quit football the first time because he missed his family. Now he is acting like can't handle training camp? This guy should either just quit for good or be put on some medication. Boo-hoo, cry me a river! I think losing Terrell Buckley is going to come back to haunt us this season. I hope not but what can go wrong, will! What do you think of this guy?
-- Ryan Braveman Elmira, N.Y.

A: If they get Tyrone Poole committed to being there, he'll be a big help to them. Poole is a good player, but I thought at the time the fact he retired in '01 to be close to home was a red flag for me even though he returned to play last season. The Patriots should not be surprised by his feelings.

Nick, I will keep it simple. Did the Pats make any attempt at getting better in the RB position during the offseason, and do you agree with many that the lack of talent at this postion is the teams achilles heel?
-- James Rae Toronto

A: I didn't see much of an attempt to address this position, but there has to be a reason for it. They must believe Smith will be motivated to have a great year with a $2 million option bonus awaiting him at the other end of the season.

Hi, Bledsoe and his team look to have really improved for this year. Do you think the Patriots have kept pace with them ?
-- Neil Jones, Southampton

A: They matched linebackers, though I think Takeo Spikes is better multi-purpose backer as opposed to Colvin, who is known more as a pass rusher. The Bills got a veteran nose tackle (Sam Adams) and the Patriots didn't. Tough call there. I know they made the Bills instantly better when they traded Bledsoe over there. I also like the Willis McGahee pick. When and if this kid comes back, it gives them a world class running back. They already have a good one in Travis Henry. But I will say losing Peerless Price has to hurt the offense.

Nick, I see 6 or more veterans who are now starters or serious contributors being cut next June 1, or not resigned. Guys like Law, Milloy, Hamilton, Pleasant, McGinest, and A. Smith could all be gone. Assume this year's draft crop is reasonabley productive. With the number of high draft picks we have next April, plus the cap room such moves would create, do you think such whole sale changes could be made, with the team remaining competative or perhaps even improving?
-- Bob Anderson, Lawrence

A: Anytime you cut veterans and bring in a lot of rookies, you are likely to struggle for awhile until the rookies become top players. If the scenario you're presenting takes place, I would want to know whether Branch, Graham, Green, Bethel Johnson, etc. are good players. If they are, you have a chance to remain competitive while you rebuild.

Nick, I've read several reports that the Patriots will be lucky to go 9-7 this season. I don't see it. The team isn't coming off any late season action last year and they've had decent draft signings. The division is tough, but if Brady's arm isn't a factor I see them stacking up favorably in the AFC East.
-- Seth Cummings Los Angeles

A: I think 9-7 in this division would be stacking up favorably. I don't think it would win the division. That would require at least a 10-6. I understand people are excited about the draft picks, but how do you know until you see them perform in a game? I think they had decent draft picks last year and Graham and Branch showed flashes, but they weren't guys you could depend on. I think the key is whether the sophomores become top players in their second years.

Nick: Sorry to start the season on a downer, but do you sense a Harrington-Duquette/Jerry Jacobs/Jan Volk feeling of institutional arrogance in the Belicek-Pioli front office, i.e.: evasive, half-truth, non-answers to direct questions concerning player personnel; failure to address canycanyon-esquees at positions such as offensive line (Doug Brezinski? Orlando Brown?), defensive tackle (John Thornton? Jeff Zgonina?) and wide receiver( Ricky Proehl? Frank Sanders?); head-scratching play-calling on offense, i.e.: four wide outs on third and less than four yards; and, last but not least, four below-average drafts with only one second-day pick established as a starter, and a mere handful (if that) contributing anything. (P.S.: Whoever recommended Brock Williams be taken in the third round should be fired. Immediately.) I know this isn't least-common-denominator style, like Brady/Bledsoe, but I believe this is one of the most important questions Pats fans need to ask. Thanks.
-- John Patrick Lane, Hershey, Penn.

A: John, I understand what you're saying. I think when you win a Super Bowl you definitely develop a swagger about the way you do things. I think the Patriots front office works hard. I really do. I think what hurt them last season was devoting the large part of their free-agent dollars to Steve Martin and Donald Hayes. You don't have too many bullets in free-agency, but you'd better make those bullets hit the target. No team has hit it better than Pioli and Belichick did in 2001. But that's ancient history. Now they have to prove they do it again.

Will the Pats release Ty Law after this season or fork over the $9 million to keep him on the roster? It doesn't look too promising for Ty considering the Pats drafted two corners.
-- David Hafner Larkspur, Calif.

A: We don't know whether Eugene Wilson is as good as Law. Some scouts think he's too slow and is a nickel back at best. The Patriots feel he's better than that. When he's tossed out there in the fire against some fast guys in the league, we'll know whether Ty could be expendable, but at this moment, I don't see it.

Nick, With all the off season defensive acquisitions the Patriots made, where do you think they will rank among the NFL's defenses or AFC east? How about their offense? Do you think that they should have picked up a better running back?
-- Joe Giunta, Everett

A: The defense has a chance to be special, similar to the Super Bowl defense they had. But I think Miami, Buffalo, and the Jets all have very good defenses as well. I don't think they have an advantage, or at least a big advantage over the other teams in the division with their defense. If the offense stays the same as last year or is somewhere between last year and year before, they'll win a lot of games as long as their defense is dominant. They could win some games with defense, a little bit of offense, and an Adam Vinatieri field goal.

This year's camp feels a little too relaxed. How is the intensity compared to previous years? Can we expect a more productive camp now that the team is practicing in their own facility?
-- Scott Anderson Alamogordo NM

A: There's no question they've cut back on the two-a-days and when they have them, one of the sessions is usually held without pads. There's definitely a trend around the league, whether it's because of the Korey Stringer case or not, that teams are scaling back their workouts. The feeling is the'se guys participate in such grueling off season conditioning programs, that they need time to replenish their bodies.

Hi there, Nick. Thanks for your column. Trapped out here in "Packerland," your article keeps me up to date on what is important in the NFL. Although my Favre-loving wife would disagree, the Patriots are the only team to follow. Anyway, there have been a lot of off-season moves by all of the AFC East teams. Which do you think improved the most and which has the best chance of capturing the division crown in 2003? I'm very encouraged by our upgrade on the defensive side of the ball. Go Patriots and go University of Maine Black Bears!
-- Ben Lampron Stevens Point, Wisconsin

A: Buffalo probably made the biggest jump defensively, but I love the Colvin move and I think Rodney Harrison is going to be fun to watch. Having said that, I'm still not convinced that trading Tebucky Jones was the right thing to do. Miami seems to have the best chance of winning the division.

With significant defensive additions in our rivals across the AFC East, has the Pats coronary-inducing O-line made any real improvements to keep pace or are we just banking on better seasons out of the vets and developing underclassmen?
-- Judson Lamphere Brooklyn, N.Y.

A: I think they're hoping for better seasons from the vets and that young vets like Matt Light, Daniel Graham and Deion Branch, will take their game to the next level.

What do you think about the Pats running game this year? Should they try to sign Jamal Anderson if he's fully recovered for his ACL injur? I cant see A. Smith lasting the whole season.
--Joseph Wilkinson, Malden

A: I thought Jamal Anderson would have been in for a tryout, but it never happened in the off-season or recently in camp. I don't know why. Anderson has had plenty of rest and his knees seem to have recovered.

What kind of shape will the Patriots fullback position be this year?
-- Reg Levesque, Columbia, S.C.

A: Potentially, very good. They key is to get Fred McCrary healthy and on the field blocking for Smith. Then you can bring Larry Centers in the game to catch passes.

Nick, Will the Pats look at the waiver wires for a reliable veteran runningback? The Broncos released an aged but accomplished back late last week. Do you expect the Pats to look to strengthen their backfield, especially given the state of Smith's third consecutive failure in the conditioning run and moderate performance last year? Thanks. I'd love to see a move made to get a decent veteran to push Smith, though all in all I think Smith is a capable runner.
-- Steve Oleary, Milton

A: It's awfully difficult to find a back they would believe is better than what they have at this time of the year. I would never say never, but unlikely might be the best word.

Hi, Nick, Great to have the mailbag back! My question is two words: Ty Warren? With the primary need being a NT, did the Pats overestimate his ability to play NT or were they drafting him to be a DE? And can we get away with Green/Klecko at NT? Thanks, great to have you back!
-- Tim Beary Columbia, SC

A: I think they knew exactly what they were getting with Warren. He could be a very good end and it's not out of the scope of possibility you might see Warren at nose tackle for a look before all is said and done.

OK, Nick, The first year was all success. The second was so-so. How do you think Brady will perform? Do you think his future rides on this season? Do you think the Patriots have given him the right combination of offensive players to be successful? Does the team, offense, and defense express their confidence in Brady? Does he have many team member detractors? Glad to see your column returning.
Jon Beight Allegany, N.Y.

A: I'd say he was much better than so-so last season. He threw 28 TD passes. Brady is no different than Bledsoe in this respect: he needs weapons to be effective and I believe he has more weapons including a pretty good signing in Centers. I just don't know at this point how much help the running game will give him.

I know we made some good moves in the off season, but do you think Tebucky Jones will be missed more than people think. Also, how will the WR core fill out, still lacking in size, will this hinder Brady. Looking forward to the season.
-- Jeremy Wells Milford, Conn.

A: Maybe I'm on an island by myself on this one, but I liked the way Tebucky played. He was pretty fast and gave you unbelievable production on special teams. I think what you'll see in the absence of Tebucky is teams trying to beat Milloy and Harrison deep. If the two vets can stop the big plays down field, then Tebucky won't be missed. It's always nice to have a big receiver, but I don't think it bothers Brady. He just needs receivers he can rely on.