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Meriweather close

Patriots first round pick Brandon Meriweather was not present this morning for the team's first training camp session, but a source close to the defensive back said Meriweather and the Patriots are just finishing up the final details of an agreement.

The sides are close enough that the rookie could be on the field for the second of the day's practice sessions, which begins at 5:30 p.m.

"There is no threat of a holdout," said the source. "The deal is done. They're just ironing out some minute details. He could be at practice this afternoon."

"He wants to play football and we want him to play football."

The source said that Meriweather's negotiations have not been held up by those of Cleveland Browns draft pick Brady Quinn.

The Notre Dame quarterback, who was expected to go in the top 10, slipped all the way to No. 22, two spots ahead of Meriweather, who was selected No. 24 overall.

"None at all. Brady felt he was a top 10 pick. Brady is Brady and Brandon is Brandon. He is not basing anything on what [Quinn] is doing."

The Patriots haven't had a first round pick holdout since Benjamin Watson in 2004. According to the source, Meriweather's agent, Joby Branion of Athletes First, is working diligently with the Patriots to keep it that way.

"There is no tension on either side. The relationship is good. [Meriweather] will be there."