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More on Hochstein

With Russ Hochstein signing a two-year contract extension with the Patriots on Tuesday, the team now has six of its top seven returning linemen under contract for at least two more seasons.

The breakdown:

Matt Light -- 2010
Logan Mankins -- 2009
Dan Koppen -- 2006
Stephen Neal -- 2009
Nick Kaczur -- 2009
Brandon Gorin -- 2007
Russ Hochstein -- 2008

Such continuity should aid the group moving forward. Hochstein's deal also provides security in the event Koppen experiences any setbacks in his recovery from a shoulder injury. Hochstein filled in for Koppen in 2005, starting the final seven games at center. He also has experience at guard.

Hochstein is an example of how the Patriots often work to extend players' contracts a year or two before they expire. The team has executed similar deals in the past with quarterback Tom Brady, defensive lineman Richard Seymour, linebacker Mike Vrabel, defensive lineman Jarvis Green and linebacker Larry Izzo, among others.

Other players with contracts that expire after 2006 include receiver Deion Branch, tight end Daniel Graham and cornerback Asante Samuel.