Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe writes that there is still some question whether Tedy Bruschi will be required to sign a waiver absolving the Patriots of all or partial liability before he suits up for a game. Bruschi was asked if he has signed anything in regards the team liability in which he responded, "In terms of that, that's once I get to actual playing. Right now, they have to decide if I can play. Man, once they see me out at practice, let them decide if I can play or not. That which you're talking about is something I haven't had to deal with."
Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe * takes evaluates Patriots free agents and rookies brought in for the 2005 season. The Patriots brough in players such as Chad Brown, Monty Beisel, Duane Starks and Chad Scott. Cafardo writes that though the 2005 class has a ways to go, the first six games haven't left the impression that there's a difference-maker in the bunch. In the case of Chad Brown and Monty Beisel, well, let's just say Tedy Bruschi couldn't have timed his return any better. Michael Felger of the *Boston Herald also offers a similar report.
When Tedy Bruschi made the decision to return to football it was a mutual decision between Tedy and wife Heidi. Dawn Witlin of the Boston Herald takes a look at the decision from a wives perspective. Witlin writes that most wives would be reluctant to agree if their husband wanted to return to work soon after a serious illness or injury.
Jim Donaldson of the Providence Journal writes that the Patriots, despite a plethora of problems are still likely to win the division title. But with so many flaws on the defense and loss of players on the injury front, the Patriots are highly unlikely to become the first team to win three straight Super Bowls.
*USA Today's* "Inside Slant" offers a story on Tedy Bruschi. The doctors agree that Tedy Bruschi has overcome his stroke. Now we'll see if he is the cure for what ails the Patriots. "They're my guys, man," he said of his teammates. "They play hard. They work hard. They practice hard. They're doing the same type of things that we've done in the past when we've been extremely successful. The season is still young... We're going to look at this bye as an opportunity to rest and get better and get some guys back - me, hopefully - and go from there."
Mike Reiss of the Boston Globe offers his daily sports blog with Patriots notes. Reiss also offers his latest mailbag where he answers your questions.
Tom Curran of the Providence Journal offers his daily sports blog with Patriots notes and commentary.
