The Boston Globe's Chris Gasper writes that although contract discussions regarding QB Tom Bradyand NT Vince Wilforkare making headlines, WR Randy Moss is entering the final year of a three-year contract extension he signed after the 2007 season. Will Moss be a member of the Patriots come 2011? Gasper writes there's a good chance he won't be as "it's safe to say Moss won't be looking for a pay cut." In another productive year for the offense, Moss recorded 1,264 yards, 83 receptions and tied Larry Fitzgerald and Vernon Davis for the NFL lead in touchdowns with 13.
ESPN Boston reports with the Bills switching to a 3-4 defense, every team in the AFC East will now play that formation. At the head of the Patriots' 3-4 defense is NT Vince Wilfork, who said "I want a long-term deal or I want to be free, point blank." Despite his public statement on seeking an extension, the Patriots are expected to place the franchise tag on Wilfork according to numerous sources and must do so by February 25. Wilfork would earn a guaranteed salary of $7.003 in 2010 if the organization decides to franchise him.
Wes Bunting of the National Football Post *has the Patriots selecting California RB Jahvid Best according to his mock draft as reported by *ESPN Boston. The team holds the No. 22 pick in April's NFL Draft. "I know the Patriots have needs along their defensive front seven," writes Bunting, "but adding a talent like Best, who can run out of the gun and take pressure off the New England pass game, might be too good to pass up." Fans might remember Best on the receiving end of a vicious hit suffered against Oregon State. He was hit in mid-air and landed on his back and neck and the impact removed his helmet. He missed the remainder of the regular season and Poinsettia Bowl due to a concussion.
Sticking with the offensive theme, ESPN's Adam Schefter said earlier this week on WEEI's Dennis and Callahan that he believes the team will seek offensive help as well. "I expect that the Patriots are going to make some type of move for a receiver this offseason," said Schefter. He added that, "Last year [the Patriots] had an interest in drafting a wide receiver in the first round. They explored the idea of going after Percy Harvin. They knew that they could have used somebody back then."
