Pats have 2 veterans in for tryouts

So did they go home empty handed or are they still here?

Being from the Caribbean myself, I have a special interest in Erasmus James(from St. Kitts and Nevis) and whether he gets signed by the Pats. He created quite a buzz in college and in his home country and wider Caribbean during this time and was thought highly off and drafted mid-first round in '05. He had a great senior season and the biggest question mark was his durability. Turns out it was well-founded concern. He has probably lost some explosiveness but I'd love to see him do well and help my beloved Pats get some pass rush going.

How did Brian Kelly go from 11 game starter to being cut? I know the Lions are bad, but still....

I like the James tryout. He was a fairly productive talent when healthy and could fit in as a pass rushing defensive end. One thing we have learned this year is the Patriots have sorely lacked a pass rush and Richard Seymour is not the player he was a few years back. While Seymour can still hold his own against the run, he doesn't pressure the quarterback as often.

In the past, our pass rush was generated through Jarvis Green coming in on sub packages, but he has been ineffective this year. Could be a nice low risk option going into next season.

If Kelly got released by the Lions, then thats saying something.

GBood pickups, at least worth a look. Nice to see a NON stand pat attitude, even at this late stage of the season. First round drat pick, if healed, could work out well. And, with our cornerbacks as pitiful as they are, especially Hobbs, anyone is worth a look.

Adam M,

The same arguement you just used applies to DeAngelo Hall who was cut by the Raiders. Even though the Raiders are one of the most pathetic franchies in sports, there were many on hear calling for the Pats to sign Hall.

Who knows, if the Pats decide to sign Brian Kelly, then it might work out. B.B. seems to know what he's doing.
gREAT JOB mIKE!

Ay mike Allen you need to get off Ellis now that man is great he not only does all the kick returns for about 30 yards per but plays on the defense first of all he is 25 so he still has a few things to learn second he is 5'9 for Christ sake he cant guard every 6'13 (exaggeration) dude that steps in Gillette stadium. he needs some help and deltha o neal is doing alright sometimes but you cant blame him for all the pats problems

Hopefully we sign one of these players because i think either could possibly be a boost and its not like its going to hurt the team to sign them to pro rated contracts that could only last another 2 weeks (hopefully it will last another 6 more games). Who knows maybe well hit on one of these guys and find a solid backup the way we did with Jabar Gafney a few seasons ago (I know Jabs is having a rough season but he was clutch the prior two...you can't argue that)!

If he started 11 games for the Lions and was cut, my guess is its because the Lions aren't making playoffs and Brian Kelly is 32 years old so he's not "the future."

For the same 2 reasons, the Pats might want him... vetaran being a good thing if they want him to contribute within 3 weeks.

Sorry Deven, Hobbs has gotten worse with each season, at least as a starting corner. He just cannot cover one on one, period. He is far too small for the bigger and faster WR's and he just is lost out there as far as coveage goes. I have nothing against his guts and determination and as a kick returner he is adequate, and perhaps better than adequate, but he hurts the team at the corner position and mostly in crucial late game situations. He is far better suited for the inside nickel position where he does not have to rely on staying with bigger and fast receivers one on one...He is a player that deserves to remain on the roster, but not on the corner, in any way.

i had a feeling bill is looking at brian kelly before he suited up with the lions. he had great career in tampa with their tampa 2 defense. but given that he may not be the player he once was i believe he can help the and maybe bill feels the same way with. i hope james can also join the team we certainly need passrushers.

yes kelly got released by the lions.thats because they chose to go the young route.I wouldnt be surprised if the lions secondary is ranked better then ours.both signings would be a lift.

You guys will be sorry you did not sign up Ty Law. He is still good enough to start for the Jets. How is Tom Brady by the way... I hope Giselle Bundchen is keeping his mind off football. I am staring at her Victoria's Secret poster now. What a lucky guy he is, huh? Too bad he cant save your season though. Anyway, better him than Brett.