Dillon helping Brady take more risks

Page 5 of 6 -- I remember earlier in the year when we tried signing Neil O'Donnell as our backup quarterback during training camp but he refused to sign with anyone until playoff time when he sees who's a contender for the Super Bowl. Considering that we look to be a lock to get a bye week and homefield through at least part or all of the playoffs do you think we may still sign him for insurance or will we stick with Rohan Davey and Jim Miller? Also do you think we will draft a quarterback next year and if you think we will who could be potential quarterbacks to study under Brady?
Roy, New Bedford

ADVERTISEMENT

A: Roy, I'd be surprised if someone new came into the mix right now. I haven't heard that the Patriots are not happy with their backup quarterback situation. I know people get uneasy about Brady possibly going down and Davey coming in based on a couple of preseason games, but I think they have more faith in him than the public does. It's the 12th game of the season and he's still the backup over Miller, which tells you that Davey has done a nice job in practice keeping the backup job. The only thing I would question is why they didn't re-sign Damon Huard. Miller hasn't played much the past couple of years either, so it's not like you've got a veteran QB who has seen a lot of game time.

This question is a little early and may seem kind of odd, but in spite of all their success on the field and with recent drafts, the Pats will have quite a shopping list for April's draft. Obviously they have to think about the secondary, though the Fla. kid could contribute next season. I see a need at LB with Johnson and Bruschi on the older side. The OL has been great but could have a defection a la Woody, and backup QB is still an issue. How many picks have they stored up, and what are your thoughts on where they will focus their early picks?
Doug, Alpharetta, Ga.

A: Judging by what happened to the team this season and Ty Law's future salary cap issues, I'm guessing they're going to draft a corner very high. I agree that linebacker will be another spot of need because Roman Phifer is likely not coming back after this season, and Johnson and McGinest are older. I can see them drafting an inside type guy because I think they like Tully Banta-Cain's progress as an outside LB. I agree they could use some depth on the offensive line, maybe a right tackle. But I don't think they'll spend a high draft pick for one. By the way, Alpharetta is a great town. Spent some time there with Tom Glavine a few years back.   Continued...