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May 8, 2007
RFAs who emerged
On the day the Patriots announced the signing of seven rookie free agents, here is a look back at some players who surprised by making the Patriots' roster as rookie free agents out of training camp (list doesn't include players like LB Corey Mays, who initially spent time on the practice squad):
Randall Gay -- In 2004, the 5-foot-11, 190-pound Gay beat out veteran Terrell Buckley and seventh-round pick Christian Morton with a strong camp showing. The Patriots were also expecting veteran Jeff Burris to report to camp, but Burris never arrived, creating more opportunities for Gay (12 starts as a rookie).
Mike Wright -- Hard-working defensive lineman out of Cincinnati played his way onto the 2005 roster, essentially beating out veteran Rodney Bailey, who had been signed to a one-year, $1.3 million restricted free agent deal the year before. Bailey was coming off an injury, but Wright's strong showing, and ability to play nose tackle and defensive end, swayed the decision in his favor.
Pierre Woods -- Despite having sixth-round pick Jeremy Mincey ahead of him, the 6-foot-5, 250-pound Woods had a better training camp and showed more aptitude learning the playbook.
Adam Vinatieri -- Competed against Matt Bahr and won the job in 1996, although because of the position, it doesn't rank as much as a surprise.
HONORABLE MENTION: Long snapper Lonie Paxton won the job in 2000, although his primary competition was another young free agent, Iowa's Thad Sheldon.
Posted By:
mreiss | Time: 03:57:02 PM |
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