Extra points

ROOKIES VISIT 'BRAND' UNIVERSITY: Former Patriots CB Mike Haynes, who now works as the NFL's Vice President of Player and Employee Development, has been hosting "Brand University" sessions for NFL rookies. Patriots' rookies "enrolled" on Tuesday, with Haynes explaining that the program “is designed to help players develop and execute a brand strategy that will help them maximize their NFL experience and enjoy a successful career within and beyond the game." Later this month, NFL rookies will take part in the annual rookie symposium in San Diego.

GOSTKOWSKI TALKS BASEBALL: Baseball Prospectus catches up with Patriots kicker Stephen Gostkowski, and talks about his interest in both football and baseball. Gostkowski explains that he wouldn't be in the NFL today if not for baseball. As for Patriots players most likely to succeed in baseball, the names Kelley Washington, Matt Cassel and Tom Brady are mentioned.

TIMEOUT ON THE SCHEDULE: Starting Saturday, I'll be taking a vacation through mid-July. The plan will be to return to regular postings July 15.