Field Yates and Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston.com report that Patriots LB Dane Fletcher has re-signed with the team. Fletcher, who tore his ACL in the preseason opener versus the Saints last August, missed the entire 2012 season after being placed on injured reserve. The report also states that prior to the injury, "[Fletcher] projected to be the team's top reserve at linebacker and potentially a starter in the sub defense alongside Jerod Mayo."

Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston.com also took fan questions in an online chat on Thursday and discussed a variety of offseason topics. Of note, Reiss believes impending free agent RT Sebastian Vollmer is a "top priority" for team this offseason. He also thinks that the Patriots would trade backup QB Ryan Mallett "in a heartbeat" if they were offered a early second-round draft pick in return. "I'd be surprised if there was a team willing to do that, though," Reiss added.

Shalise Manza Young of the Boston Globe writes that offensive guard Brian Waters was spotted in New Orleans on Thursday. Waters was on hand for the NFL Players Association's annual Super Bowl press conference, as he is a member of the union's executive board. "When asked if he will return to play in 2013, Waters would not say," reports Manza Young. "Since he did not show up last year, Waters's contract tolled and he will is still be under contract with the Patriots for the coming season." The 35-year-old was a Pro Bowler in 2011 in his first stint with New England, but he did not report to the team in 2012.

Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald caught up with Danny Woodhead in New Orleans yesterday. Woodhead is scheduled to become a free agent in March, but claims he hasn't thought about the process yet. "The last three years have been fun," said Woodhead. "I've really enjoyed playing. I really enjoy being a Patriot."