Analysis of 8 free-agent signings
ANALYSIS
The Patriots announced eight free-agent signings tonight, and one name from the group particularly stands out: Vinny Ciurciu.
The Boston College alum enters his seventh NFL season, making him the most experienced player in the group of signings. He's primarily a special teamer, and he has a background with first-year Patriots special teams coach Scott O'Brien.
Ciurciu, 29, played for the Carolina Panthers from 2003-2006. O'Brien was the Panthers' special teams coach from 1999-2004.
The Patriots' core special teams group has undergone some change this year, most notably with captain Larry Izzo not returning. Ciurciu (6-0, 235) will compete for a special teams type of roster spot, and could possibly provide depth at inside linebacker in the base 3-4 defense.
Overall, these signings are longer shots to earn a roster spot, but as noted earlier today, they give the Patriots a chance to maximize opportunities with the 80-man roster limit.
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I must have missed the explanation for what happened with Larry Izzo. Why did he leave?
Foote was just released by the Steelers - any chance the Pats want him Mike, or is he looking for too much money? I think he was due about 2-1/2 to 3 million per year and still had 2 years left on his contract
Izzo = BALCO
Izzo's contract was up, he went and signed with the Jets. That's all.
Not a major loss.
So now there is only one spot left on the roster before we have to cut players. Hmm Hmm Jason Taylor
Mike,
I know Army players have to serve before they can play and I thought the same about Navy? So do navy players have to serve first because I saw Eric Kettani as a fifth round draft pick.
You missed Leigh Bodden Mike
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