Tom Grossi of ESPNCleveland.com believes a Ryan Mallett trade to the Browns is still a possibility. Grossi notes that the Browns' newly-signed defensive lineman, Desmond Bryant, could be a player in a potential package deal for Mallett. "Belichick, reportedly, was interested in pursuing Bryant, but the Browns beat him to the punch. Still, the need is there for a defensive tackle to line up next to Vince Wilfork in Belichick's 4-3 scheme. Belichick loves defensive linemen."
Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston.com discusses the history of production with the the slot receiver within the Patriots offense. "Before Welker, fan favorite Troy Brown also put up big numbers in the slot. It's no disrespect to Brown and Welker, two talented players, but Belichick has noted that part of the function of New England's offense sets that position up for big production." The reported signing of free agent wide receiver Danny Amendola could put him next-in-line to work as the slot receiver within the team's offense.
Jim Thomas of The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the Rams never had a realistic shot at retaining Danny Amendola. "The Rams were willing to go about $4 million a year on Danny Amendola," writes Thomas. "Amendola wanted $6 million plus. So at the start of free agency it was clear that if the market was there for Amendola, his time was over with the Rams." The 27-year-old receiver reportedly signed with the Patriots for $6.1 million per year.
Greg A. Bedard of The Boston Globe gives his perspective on the Patriots decision to bring in Danny Amendola. "Yes, Welker led the league in yards after the catch again, but Amendola (and Julian Edelman if he's re-signed) can be better," writes Bedard. "Welker gets what's blocked on screen plays – and few follow and set up blockers better – but Amendola can make more people miss. That's what the Patriots want on the outside at their Z position."
John Keim of The Washington Examiner reports that the Redskins continue to have their eye on Aqib Talib. "According to league sources, the Redskins have contacted free agent cornerbacks Antoine Winfield and Antoine Cason, though no visits appear to have been arranged," notes Keim. "However, there's a belief that the Redskins' real target is corner Aqib Talib, but they would need to free up more cap space."
