Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe reports that you should not expect to see Troy Brown playing defensive back this season as the Patriots are currently stacked with depth at that position. Cafardo also notes that Brown could have his hands full earning time at receiver. He's competing with Deion Branch, David Givens, David Terrell, Bethel Johnson, and P.K. Sam.

Michael Felger of the Boston Herald and Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe both offer stories on Patriots running back Corey Dillon who looks to prove that there will be no dropoff in his production. Dillon rushed for a franchise record 1,635 yards last season and has been very active in the Patriots offseason program and has actually got stronger and faster than he was last year. "His strength level, his conditioning level, overall his testing level (is better) . . . and the results can be seen," said Patriots head coach Bill Belichick. Felger also offers some practice notes in his article in which he reports that Richard Seymour was again missing from practice as he continues his holdout.

Tom Curran of the Providence Journal reports Patriots linebacker Chad Brown has been working double time as the depth at inside linebacker has recently become very thin. Chad Brown and Don Davis have been trying to fill the void left by Ted Johnson(retired) and Tedy Bruschi(siting out the 2005 season). Monty Beisel has also been sidelined the past few practices due to an unspecified leg injury.

Michael Felger of the Boston Herald offers a story on Patriots nose tackle Vince Wilfork. With the loss of Tedy Bruschi, Ted Johnson and Richard Seymour's holdout the need for a great nose tackle in Belichick's 3-4 defense is emphasized more than ever. After competing last season with Keith Traylor, Wilfork will take over the spot full time in 2005. "t's a tough, physical position, but I think we can handle it,'' said Wilfork.

Mike Reiss of the MetroWest Daily News offers his daily sports blog with Patriots notes.