Some quick-hits from Bill Belichick’s conference call with media members today (4 p.m.):
Will the team stick with just two quarterbacks? With today’s release of Andrew Walter, the Patriots have just Tom Brady and Brian Hoyer on the roster. Belichick was asked if he envisions a third player added at the position. “That’s really a hard question to answer – we’ll have to wait and see what our different options are, not only what players are available one way or the other, but in terms of how we want to manage our roster,” he said. “There are so many moving parts to the process.” Belichick said the presence of college quarterback turned NFL receiver Julian Edelman is not a major factor in the decision-making at quarterback.
Addressing the Billy Yates cut. Belichick said this is always one of the tougher days of the year, informing players they’ve been cut. He singled out Billy Yates, a tough, solid, very dependable player since he first joined the team in 2004.
If five running backs are kept … The Patriots kept five running backs last season, and they could do so again with Fred Taylor, Laurence Maroney, Kevin Faulk, BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Sammy Morris. Belichick was asked what part of the roster would be affected if five backs are kept. He said the decision is made with all skill-position players in mind (running backs, receivers, tight ends), as well as linebackers (because of special teams impact).
Busy time of year for trade talks. Asked specifically if he has had conversations with Philadelphia – presumably in a deal for quarterback A.J. Feeley – Belichick said the Patriots have conversations with every team at this time of year.
BenJarvus Green-Ellis = production. Asked what he likes the most about BenJarvus Green-Ellis at running back and on special teams, Belichick went to the bottom line. “I think the thing we really like about Benny is his production. When he’s had the chance to play, he’s been productive, really in all phases of the game – as a runner, as a pass protector and blocker, and as a pass catcher and as a receiver. In the kicking game, he brings that same athleticism and toughness we see when he runs the ball. He’s a pretty valuable player who is versatile, smart, tough, and when he’s had a chance to play, he’s taken advantage of it.”
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Mike, what are the chances that Boston Legal serves as a kick returner this year? I love his explosiveness, and the toughness combined -- a good combo for returns and setting up field position!
Sounds like "Benny" is in a good position.
I don't believe a thing about the QB quotes. He's not sharing with anyone, but he knows whether he wants a veteran or not. He may not know the identity, but he can answer the 2 or 3 question.
No way BGE gets cut. listen to Bill glow about him.
Love it!
I don't see any unexpected subtractions or additions (A.J. Feely) to this team. We look good on paper. Bringing two QBs into the season will free up room for Terrence Nunn or anyone else the coaches have in mind for making the team. Hoyer played well agianst the Giants last night, and he did well against a first string defense when he had no starters on his side of the ball.
2 QBs
5 RBs
7 WRs
Is a good make-up for a high scoring offense that plans to be a threat on both styles of Offenese. We'll beat teams in September and October with the passing game. November, December, January we'll hit teams in the mouth. Come February, we'll beat you both ways.
I've been wondering for awhile why there was even much question in anyone's mind about whether BJGE would make the team or not. After FB Evans left in free agency and no serious effort was made to replace him, it seemed like the 5th RB spot was always BJGE's unless he lost it by playing poorly.
BJGE is kind of slow for a kick returner, Jim. But they used to have Patrick Pass do it, so what the hell?
I really like Maroney on returns though. Seriously, despite his faults as a running back, he's an excellent kick returner. Let him be the primary kick returner -- until he gets hurt, and then BJGE can take some of his halfback touches.
To be frank, it wouldn't surprise me if Belichick was "selling" Green-Ellis to the rest of the league with a comment like that.
not only do i think bjge should make the team i think he should get more carries than twinkle toes maroney, i love the way bjge just puts his head down and pushes for extra yards (maroney has yet to do this in his career) he runs with a purpose and attitude, good special teams player as well.
cool either way, MarkZ, as long as he makes the team!
does anyone know who the starter (RB) is for New England?
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