**Jeff Howe** of The Boston Herald writes that Patriots WR Brandon Lloyd continues to stick out during OTAs.  Howe notes that the speedy wideout "displayed a nice ability to extend to make the catch and reel in passes that don't hit him right in the chest" during Thursday's open practice.  It seems to be a smooth transition thus far for Lloyd -- he looks extremely comfortable in Josh McDaniels' offense, as expected.

**Jeff Howe** also writes that the Patriots could still look to trade backup QB Brian Hoyer if Ryan Mallett proves to be a suitable backup for Tom Brady this offseason.  "If a quarterback goes down elsewhere, the Patriots should be more inclined to flip Hoyer for a pick if they believe in Mallett. If not, the Patriots will at least have some peace of mind with Hoyer as the backup, even if he's able to walk free next year."  Hoyer will be an unrestricted free agent after this season.

**Greg A. Bedard** of The Boston Globe writes that Patriots WR Deion Branch continues to be unimpressive from what was seen during media access at OTAs on Thursday.  Bedard writes that Branch "catches everything but his burst is diminishing."  He also notes that Donte' Stallworth continues to work as the outside threat during practice, but he hasn't stood out.

**Mike Rodak** of ESPNBoston.com writes that Patriots WR/DB/KR Julian Edelman has not practiced on defense during the first two weeks of OTAs. Edelman acknowledged that he is still focused on becoming a better receiver in order to make the roster.  "It's a receiver competition, I don't know how (being a punt returner) has to do with that," Edelman said. "I'm just trying to become a better receiver right now. When it's punt return, you try to become a better punt returner."