Mike Reiss

  (2:00 PM)

Good afternoon. The Patriots had an organized team activity open to media members today.

Mike Reiss

  (2:01 PM)

I spent a lot of time watching the defense. I feel like I have a fairly good read on the offense at this point, as they usually "break down" on the near field and it's a little easier to watch them. The defense is on the far field, so it requires a little more concentration and a look into the binoculars.

Mike Reiss

  (2:01 PM)

Let's chat.

Ric (NJ)

Mike, I read your article on what Troy Polamalu had to say. I am a Steelers fan and he was absolutely right. The Steelers have always been a successful team at running and a great defense. Alot of people took your article the wrong way, he was talking Steeler tradition BUT the Pats offense has become just a passing team believing the short passing game is there running game. Remember, the Pats haven't won a SuperBowl without a powerful running game...Your thoughts????????

Mike Reiss

  (2:03 PM)

Ric, I was really interested in what Troy Polamalu had to say. I don't think he was insulting the Patriots at all. I think he was talking about the Steelers and the idea that he likes that power-running game complementing the smothering defense. As for the Patriots, I think it is something to chew on. I heard left tackle Matt Light say that the offense wants to be more physical in 2010. It is my belief that the easiest way to do that is with a powerful running game. I'm just not sure that is the Patriots' M.O., but I think it is a very interesting topic to digest.

Steve (Millbury, MA)

One more question Mike,How are the young LBs doing? Spikes, McKenzie, Cunningham...

Mike Reiss

  (2:04 PM)

I was locked in on that group today, Steve. I really wanted to get a closer look. I think they have major questions at OLB, as we've dissected. That position is wide open. On Spikes, he's getting most of his reps after the more experienced players like Mayo, Guyton, McKenzie and even Thomas Williams (a sleeper candidate to watch in camp). Ditto with Cunningham, whose reps come after the likes of Burgess, Woods, Banta-Cain, Ninkovich and Crable at OLB. These guys have a long way to go.

Woody (C-Ville)

Is everything starting to unravel in New England? Because it looks like the Jets are the new elite team in that division.

Mike Reiss

  (2:05 PM)

Is this Woody Johnson checking in? I don't see things unraveling here at all. A young team (24 draft picks over the last 2 years) with an interesting mix of veterans. I still think the division runs through N.E. at this time.

Sean (Darien, CT)

My question is if Welker returns early (i.e. is not put on PUP), where does that leave Edelman in the Pats offense? Can he play outside or is he strictly a slot guy?

Mike Reiss

  (2:06 PM)

I think Edelman would be the No. 4 guy and your top punt returner. I don't see a combination of Moss/Welker/Edelman. I do think Edelman can play outside, but I like Tate or Holt there in the three-WR set.

Ira (Newton)

Mike, do you see the Pats bringing back Wille McG as a late season veteran presence (like they have with Seau) or has that ship sailed?

Mike Reiss

  (2:07 PM)

Ira, I see that ship as having sailed. I don't see it happening.

The Cat (Brookline)

Mike-do you envision Mayo taking more of a leadership role this year? Big things were anticipated from him last year, but then his injury slowed him down. Did the injury affect his ability to be a team leader? What are your thoughts and could you ask Tedy B. about this as well?

Mike Reiss

  (2:08 PM)

I already see it with Mayo. I don't think it was his injury that slowed his ability to be a leader last year. I just think it's asking a lot of a second-year player to be a leader. That has to evolve in my view.

Mike (Chicopee)

Mike, prior to OTAs, people jumped on the Crable bandwagon again. You have reported, however, that he is mostly playing with the scout team at the moment. He has had 2 full years to study and be around the team, and he certainly has the physical gifts to excel, but something seems to be missing. What do you think it is? Do you think he is on the bubble behind the draftees this year?

Mike Reiss

  (2:09 PM)

Mike, I think Crable is on the bubble. Right now, he's ahead of the rookies simply based on experience. I thought he got some quality reps at today's practice in the base 3-4. So I wouldn't count him out yet, but I sense the coaching staff is poking and prodding to try to bring out the best in him.

Sal (Dedham)

Mike, I know everyone has been dancing around the "Tom Brady being in Foxboro in the offseason" issue. As you have pointed out, the offseason allows the team to build character, and Brady not being may not hurt the tea, chemistry, but it doesnt help either. Even Kraft said he prefers him to be here, which says a lot. The fact is, Brady is a professional athlete who only has a finite amount of time to play at this level and he should devote his energy to being the best he can be and the best for the team, which means he should be here. Mike, you have waffled a bit on this issue, what are your thoughts?

Mike Reiss

  (2:11 PM)

I am conflicted on this one, Sal. It's obviously a missed opportunity that he's not here. I was also one of the media members who lauded him for winning the parking spot, so I think it would be hypocritical of me to say it doesn't matter that he's not here. At the same time, I'm a new dad over the last two years myself and I understand how that can change things. You can't get this time back with your kids, whether your career is one that will end when you're 36, 38, 40 or 65. So I'm sensitive to that as well. It's a tough one, Sal.

MarkJ (Japan)

Mike, you have commented in the chat last week that RDE, OLB1, OLB2 and ILB are the four weak spots of the roster.I agree with your thoughts on DE and OLB, but kind of disagree with ILB. With Guyton, last year's starter, coming back, and McKenzie and Spikes, two promising young player, coming in, we expect at least some upgrade from last year and I think ILB could be one of the bright spots in the defense.

Mike Reiss

  (2:12 PM)

That could turn out to be the case, MarkJ, but I think it's still an unknown. We're projecting those players to step in, but the body of work isn't there to fall back on and say 'That position is locked down.' That was the point I was trying to make.

Peg (Waltham)

Mike, in your blog today you mentioned BB putting water on the ball to simulate game conditions. What other "tricks" does BB employ during camp to simulate game situations?

Mike Reiss

  (2:13 PM)

Peg, there is a clock in the corner of the end zone and he'll run the clock as if the team was working on a game situation. There will also be chains on the sideline at time, and a down-marker, so players can look to the sideline and see how many yards they need to gain to get a first down.

Joe (Boston)

Mike,Great work every week. I look forward to the chat on Thursdays. Any update on how Kaczur is doing at left guard? Would you be worried if Mankins holds out and Kaczur has to fill in? The positive part is that Vollmer would get to start at RT.

Mike Reiss

  (2:14 PM)

Thanks Joe. I look forward to the chat as well. Kaczur hasn't been on the field this week at LG, and I'd also say it's a little early to judge that position because there is no contact. If Mankins holds out and Kaczur has to fill in, I think it's a downgrade. Yet I still think you can win with that group.

Rich P (Memphis, TN)

With the draftees starting to sign the Pats are getting close the 80 player limit. Releasing Amon Gordon today is one step towards getting to that number. I'd like to get your best 'guess' as to the likely candidates to be released as more draftees sign.

Mike Reiss

  (2:16 PM)

Players like P David King, RB Chris Taylor and DL Adrian Grady were the first to come to mind, Rich.

Austin (Utah)

Mike, at this point who do you see starting with Bodden at corner?

Mike Reiss

  (2:16 PM)

Darius Butler at LCB. I think he's ready to make this jump. I think he can be a 1A corner in the NFL. He's not there yet, but I see the potential.

Josh (Boulder, Co)

Mike, Any truth to the rumors that the Patriots are hesitant to re-sign Brady to a long-term deal since he's been around the team less and less as he's focusing on his new family life? As well as the work stoppage issue? They really need to lock him up for another 5 years, don't you think?

Mike Reiss

  (2:19 PM)

I'd be stunned if that is true, Josh. I think the Patriots would obviously like Brady here, but they're flirting with trouble in my view if that's why a contract hasn't happened. I just don't see it, and believe the delay is because of the uncertain labor forecast. I don't think that's an excuse to not strike a deal, but I do believe it's a larger hurdle than what the sides would be dealing with in a regular year.

Eric (Weymouth)

Mike I know you are down on Crable but I can't see the Patriots giving up on a 3rd rd draft pick after 2yrs, 3 preseasons. That's pretty early to give up on a valuable pick. I see them keeping him this yr... I think players like Ninkovich are a dime a dozen compared to Crable - Nink has had 5 yrs in the league and what is his ceiling vs. Crable's?

Mike Reiss

  (2:20 PM)

Fair point, Eric. I think Crable will get his shot in training camp. I'm not down on him as much as taking the approach that anything they get from him at this point is a bonus. We'll see on Ninkovich. I think he could surprise some people.

Marcus (NY)

hey Mike, my question is who do you think has a breakout season on defense anyone come to mind?

Mike Reiss

  (2:20 PM)

Darius Butler.

Alvin (Back Bay)

Hi Mike, who is your dark horse choice to make this team as an undrafted free agent?

Mike Reiss

  (2:21 PM)

I don't see any undrafted players making it at this point, mainly because they had three late seventh-rounders in Brandon Deaderick, Kade Weston and Zac Robinson who are basically rookie free agents. But keep an eye on second-year LB Thomas Williams. I think he's had a solid showing this offseason and is giving himself a chance to be a surprise candidate.

Jon Schaefer (Berkshire East)

In your crystal ball, how does the Brady situation shake out?

Mike Reiss

  (2:22 PM)

Contract extension averaging anywhere from $15-18 million per year. Richest deal in team history.

G-Slice (Needham)

Mike, do you think that some of the criticism of Brady is related to him having gone "hollywood" and perhaps there is some jealouy amongst some members of the local media and fans of seeing our guy grow up and become "famous" outside of football? It seems a bit unfair to me. If Brady has a down year, then it would be justified, but he is still a top 5 QB in this league (and top 2 in the AFC). What is your perspective?

Mike Reiss

  (2:24 PM)

I think I am living in a bubble G-Slice. Who is cricizing Brady? I saw one clip on "Pardon The Interruption" about Brady's post-game chatter with Kobe Bryant, and sort of laughed that it was a big deal. I've also heard about the debate on whether he should be here, yet it seems like people understand his family-based reasons for going the bi-coastal route. But I haven't really heard any real criticism.

Chris (Charlottesville, Va)

Last year NE was only 2-6 away from Gillette, with one win coming across the pond. Looking at the road schedule it is a little easier then last year with the Ravens, Vikes, Colts and Packers all at home. With those opponents as home games Ne will obviously need to be better on the road to make the playoffs. What can they and have they done to improve in that regard?

Mike Reiss

  (2:25 PM)

I think Brady put it best, Chris. When you're on the road, it comes down to trust. All you have is your own teammates. They need to build a better team and we'll see if they have done so. I think they have.

Arjuna (Derry, NH)

Hey Mike, I'm pretty excited about the upcoming season and believe it's really going to come down to how our draft picks of the last three years progress. Having said that, OLB seems to lack a veteran presence. Are there thoughts about signing some kind of free agent or trading for an experienced, leader-esque OLB?

Mike Reiss

  (2:27 PM)

OLB is a major question mark to me, Arjuna. I've noticed Derrick Burgess playing more of that traditional OLB role than we saw last year, when he was mostly a sub rusher playing forward and not backwards. I also think Tully Banta-Cain is a veteran type there. I don't see them making another move at this time. Maybe in training camp if some of the young guys don't develop as desired.

Anthony (North Andover, MA)

Who has been getting the most reps along side Meriweather at Safety?

Mike Reiss

  (2:27 PM)

Probably an even split with McGowan and Chung. With McGowan not practicing, it's opened the door for Chung a bit.

Kyle (Scituate)

Mike, do you see Wilhite making the team? Also, do you know what the amount would be if the Pats decide to franchise Brady after the season? Not sure what it was for this offseason for franchise QB's

Mike Reiss

  (2:29 PM)

Absolutely on Wilhite. He's probably their top slot corner right now. I think they are still high on him. As for Brady, not sure on what the tag would be.

Rich (Springfield, MA)

Is Maroney still the guy?

Mike Reiss

  (2:29 PM)

I think it's a committee, Rich, with Maroney once again the most likely candidate to lead the team in rushing.

Brian (CT)

Hi Mike, More of a comment than a question but here goes; It's quite a long shot but I can't help but for see a Moss, Patten, Holt Trips set sometime during the 2010 season. That's quite a bit of NFL experience on one side of the field.

Mike Reiss

  (2:30 PM)

I think the big thing on that will be if injuries hit and they bring a player like Patten back. I just don't see Patten making the club right now if all receivers are healthy.

Dennis (WPB, FL)

Mike, at times last year RB Ben Jarvis Green Ellis appeared to be improving and possibly ready to make an impact on a regular basis, can you advise or update his status along with your thoughts on the how the patriots running backs look this year?

Mike Reiss

  (2:31 PM)

Dennis, it's really tough to tell on the RBs in these practices. The one thing I'd say about Green-Ellis is that I do see him in the team's plans, in part because he is a pretty good special teams player. So that opens one door for him in terms of being on the club (in my opinion), and then anything can happen from there.

ben (sharon)

Mike, I am worried about the O-line. Assuming Vollmer takes over for Kazcur, Light and Koppen at times are still liabilities, as shown in the saints game when three man rushes were pressuring brady. What do you think the team can do to help out these players block? Have brady get rid of the ball faster? Maybe rely on Kevin Faulk to block in the backfield on many plays? Thanks

Mike Reiss

  (2:33 PM)

I think there are a lot of layers to this one, Ben. I'd start with a general philosophy approach. I think they could help the line by limiting some of their spread formations, tightening things up, and firing off the ball with a focus on initiating physical play. The Patriots averaged 4.1 yards per carry last season which is very good. But I never got the feeling they imposed their physical will on teams on a weekly basis.

Dave B (San Francisco)

Mike, you've mentioned a few interceptions that Brady has thrown in practice. How has he looked so far? Are these a result of them practicing new timing routes? Also, is there a lot of trash-talking during the 11 on 11's, or any physicality between the two sides?

Mike Reiss

  (2:34 PM)

Brady looks sharp to me, and that comes in the context that he's still working on getting his timing down with his receivers, and getting to know some of the new receivers. Some nice banter between offense and defense during 11 on 11 and 7 on 7 work. The competition is good. Brady was barking up a storm today, in fact.

Husyourdaddy (Florida)

Hi Mike, Who will be the difficult cuts or trades this year? Do we stay with 4-5 RBs and 4 Safeties? Feels like these positions are where there is the most wiggle room to open up slots for additional WRs or Linemen that we really need to be developing...

Mike Reiss

  (2:36 PM)

I do see four safeties on the roster, but a fifth running back might be a luxury. I'd put Fred Taylor on the club now, but I'm interested to see how he looks when the pads come on.

Adam C (England)

What is the latest news on Brady's contract situation?

Mike Reiss

  (2:38 PM)

The latest is basically "no news" as I understand it, Adam. I think we'll see the talks intensify between mid-June and late July. Then it would be a question if Brady calls a halt to talks until the season is over because he won't want the distraction. I'm not sure if he'd do that, but it wouldn't surprise me.

Damas (Bristol, Vermont)

How is Brandon Spikes doing in the OTA's? Is it looking like a definitive starter is coming to the surface or will it be a committee approach with Spikes, McKenzie and Guyton? or is it too early to tell?

Mike Reiss

  (2:39 PM)

Spikes has a long way to go Damas. That was one of the notes I scribbled down today after watching how his reps came after Jerod Mayo, Gary Guyton, Tyrone McKenzie and Thomas Williams. He could make up the ground in training camp, but right now, he looks deep on the depth chart, which is to be expected for a rookie at that position.

Andrew (Leominster, MA)

Mike, I have an odd feeling that one of the "annual surprise veteran releases" this year will be TE Alge Crumpler. Your thoughts?

Mike Reiss

  (2:40 PM)

Crumpler, for what it's worth, made one very nice catch today in red-zone work. He reached out, caught the ball and extended it over the goal-line for a TD in a tight spot. I think he'll be on the club because it's too dangerous to enter a season with two rookie TEs.

Johnnymag (New Hampshire)

Mike, I keep hearing good things in practice about Aaron Hernandez and now his signing. I have yet to hear any news about Rob Gronkowski? in practice or anything. I read in your column, I think that Brady gave a helmut to helmut to Torry Holt after Hernandez made a nice catch. Just curious on the offensive front about Gronkowski.

Mike Reiss

  (2:42 PM)

Gronkowski has been getting some more reps with Hernandez out this week, but it looks to me like he's mostly working behind Crumpler because they are the similar-type TE (as much blocker as pass catcher), whereas Hernandez is more WR-like. I think he's going to be good, but he's probably swimming in all the terminology right now. It's a big jump. Hernandez had a little bit of an advantage because Florida had similar concepts in its offense.

John (Manchester, NH)

Mike, as things stand today, what are your top 3 storylines entering training camp?

Mike Reiss

  (2:43 PM)

1. Wes Welker's status; 2. How do they piece it together at OLB?; 3. What is the story with Logan Mankins and Tom Brady when it comes to contracts and how is that affecting things?

Josh (Houston)

I expect great things from Moss this year. He will be looking to put up big numbers and earn himself one more big pay day. Do you think Moss will cause any locker room disruptions if he doesn't get the ball enough or if the offense has another down year?

Mike Reiss

  (2:45 PM)

I am with you, Josh. I see big things ahead for Moss. Considering that he's here for voluntary work, I see no indication that he would cause a problem in the locker room at this time. I do believe that adversity often tells us more about players, and so it's hard to project with Moss right now. But I'll go ahead and make a definitive call that Moss won't cause any problems this year.

Mike (Boise)

Do you see any indications of a move from a base 3-4 to a 4-3? Have you seen any of the five linebacker standing alignment?

Mike Reiss

  (2:46 PM)

I think it's still a base 3-4 Mike, but as we know, they can do a lot of different things out that. That was one thing that new Patriots DL Damione Lewis said stood out to him.

Dennis (WPB, FL)

Mike, can you please provide an explanation why NFL personnel continue to reference or blame the absence of a new CBA as the principal factor for players not provided contract extensions, more importantly why several have referenced this has impacted current conversations with the Patriots and Tom Brady?

Mike Reiss

  (2:47 PM)

I don't know enough of the details Dennis to nail it down, but I'd suggest looking up the Colts' situation with Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne and Robert Mathis, as president Bill Polian had some comments on it. The Colts are in a similar situation.

PC (NJ)

How is the Denver Post getting news that the Pats are sending letters to Mankins? Did Josh let them know?

Mike Reiss

  (2:48 PM)

Mike Klis is an excellent reporter. In reading the report, he was writing on a Broncos player in a similar situation (Elvis Dumervil) and the info on Mankins and the Chargers' players were part of the report, and were according to a source from the NFL Players Association. So I don't think Josh McDaniels was part of that.

Damas (Bristol, VT)

In years past, there have been high hopes for the changes made to the tight end position by the patriots. Nearly all of those changes have been non-factors come game time. Is there a noticeable difference in the chemistry between Brady and this unit or should we expect the hype of the rookie/veteran combo to be overblown?

Mike Reiss

  (2:49 PM)

Still early, Damas. I wouldn't lean in either direction at this time.

Aaron D (High Point, North Carolina)

Hey Mike! Just got out of school and decided to get a good answer to my question from an expert rather than some junior. What route do you see the Patriots taking in next year's draft what with a potential top 10 pick in the first round and two second round picks? Here's to hoping we go running back!

Mike Reiss

  (2:49 PM)

Thanks Aaron. I'd lean toward the D-line and top pass rusher at OLB.

Adam C (England)

Does Randy Moss look like he's lost a step at OTAs or does he still look like his old self?

Mike Reiss

  (2:50 PM)

Looks terrific to me.

Justin R (Portsmouth NH)

Mike: Not so much a football question, but about 4 weeks ago ESPN changed its website and I can no longer access any ESPN comment via my blackberry. The message I get is "request to large".... Can that get looked at by your technical folks? Miss getting updates while on the road. -Justin

Mike Reiss

  (2:50 PM)

Justin, forward your info to me as part of this chat and I'll have our tech folks work it out for you.

AM (NH)

Mike, I love our ILB corps for this upcoming season--it could be one of the most talented units on the team. Is there any indication that the coaching staff is favoring either Tyrone McKenzie or Brandon Spikes at ILB right now? Is McKenzie getting the kind of "crash course" in play calling that you saw Spikes receiving? Is there anything to be read into Spikes getting that kind of tutelage, or is it just a question of getting a rookie up to speed? Thanks for the insight!

Mike Reiss

  (2:51 PM)

I see McKenzie getting more reps right now, which I'd expect based on both players' experience. Will be a great competition to watch. I'd also include Thomas Williams in there, too. He's showing up at times in practice.

JT (Albuquerque, NM)

Mike, can you tell us a little about why players are missing OTAs? I know Price can't attend and Mankins wants a new deal, but what about the others? Should we be concerned? I'm especially surprised Hernandez wasn't out there.

Mike Reiss

  (2:52 PM)

Presumably injuries. Nothing serious, I don't think. I saw Hernandez walk off the field with teammates, wearing a sweatshirt. So he's not on crutches or anything. I wouldn't be concerned at this point.

Michelle (London)

Haven't heard much on Brady's OTA play so far...guess he hasn't done anything great or anything awful. Have you noticed anything specific? Positive or negative?

Mike Reiss

  (2:53 PM)

Terrific leader, Michelle. It's probably my favorite part about going to practice. I love to watch excellence and see someone at the top of his profession work at his craft. The way he talks to receivers, and how precise he wants routes to be run, is one thing that stands out. His arm looks strong. His mechanics, to the layman, look sound. Looks like the same old Brady to me.

Jane (Cole Harbour)

So I heard the other day that female media members aren't allowed in the Patriots locker room?? What's with that? Seems sexist. Do they give a reason for it?

Mike Reiss

  (2:53 PM)

That is incorrect Jane. Female media members are allowed in the locker room.

Steve (Millbury, MA)

Mike,How are the WRs and TEs looking? specifically the younger guys, Tate, Gronkowski, Hernandez, Price

Mike Reiss

  (2:55 PM)

I can't get over how big Gronkowski's hands are, Steve. They are like catcher's mitts. Hernandez has missed this week (undisclosed physical ailment), while Price remains out because Ohio hasn't graduated yet. I watch Tate and the first word that comes to mind is "raw" but there is potential there. Going to be fun to watch him in training camp.

Ron (Denver)

Aside from maybe Ellis Hobbs, how many player situations would you say the Patriots mismanaged? I would have to think his owner and coach would have a much better pulse on Brady than these third hand reports circulating in the press. I just find it hard to believe they would let this scenario just happen without some kind of plan. Why would they have plans for their backup linemen but nt their quarterback?

Mike Reiss

  (2:56 PM)

I don't think they were off the mark with Hobbs, Ron, but I get your point. I have little doubt they have a plan with Brady.

Tuck Pendleton (Foxborough, FL)

When you look at the Pats roster and their recent "trade down" draft strategy, do you think their goal is to have mostly average to above average players as opposed to a top heavy roster of mega stars? Clearly they would hope that Merriweather, Butler,

Mike Reiss

  (2:57 PM)

I don't think that's it, Tuck. I think when they trade down, they feel they can still get their player (or a player with the same grade) in addition to something else.

Danny (Toronto)

Mike, What are your expectations for Fred Taylor. Last season seemed ruined due to injuries, and he ended with only 1 100 yard game. Do you expect a 34 year old Taylor to have a larger presence this season?

Mike Reiss

  (2:58 PM)

I want to see him in training camp when there is contact, Danny. Sometimes it just happens for players, where they reach the end quickly. I'm not saying he's there, but he's obviously closer to the end than the beginning. So, for me, it's too tough to answer until I see him banging against contact.

Nate (philly, pa)

Mike, is calling it a 'base 3-4' even acurate anymore? You stated they were in a 'sub package' nearly (more than?) 50% of the time. Isn't possible or more accurate to call the nickle D with three CB's on the field the 'base package' at this point? It certainly is in the yearly game against the colts. Undoubtably was against the Saints as well. I think the '3-4 base' get too much ink base on it normally being what they open the game in, but its not necessarily what they play in most often.

Mike Reiss

  (2:59 PM)

Nate, I think in calling it the base 3-4, the point is that is what Bill Belichick teaches out of. That's where everything starts, and you can build off of that.

Brandon (Milwaukee)

Mike, I heard the Pats are deciding whether to join the Pac 10 or the Big 10. Whats the latest?

Mike Reiss

  (2:59 PM)

:)

Mike Reiss

  (2:59 PM)

Let's go for another 5...

Mike (Framingham)

Hey Mike heard a report if Mankins doesn't sign his tender the Pats alreay informed him they will reduce his pay 110%. Do you think that will motivate Mankins for signing the tender?

Mike Reiss

  (3:01 PM)

I need to do more reporting on that, Mike, but my sense is that it's standard operating procedure. I think Mankins has to sign the tender at this point, unless he's prepared to sit out the season.

Josh (NYC)

Mike, talk a bit about the Bodden injury - did it appear to be an ankle issue? Knee?

Mike Reiss

  (3:01 PM)

I couldn't tell Josh.

Sean (Greer, SC)

How does Ron Brace look at DE?

Mike Reiss

  (3:02 PM)

Without contact, it's difficult to get a gauge on that one, Sean, but I think it's notable that he was lining up next to Vince Wilfork at one point.

Alvin (Back Bay)

What you think of Devin McCourty? Is he a worthy 1st round pick?

Mike Reiss

  (3:03 PM)

Yes, I believe he is, Alvin. There were a few teams right behind the Patriots ready to pounce if New England did not.

Sean (Greer, SC)

Mike, What are your thoughts on Aaron Henrnandez's contract with it's lowish signing bonus ($200K) and multiple to be earned later roster/workout bonuses? The deal can actually be more than what Taylor Price gets if he plays it out.

Mike Reiss

  (3:04 PM)

I haven't see the deal, Sean, but it looks like one that makes Hernandez have to earn the money over time. To me, that reinforces the idea that off-field concerns lef Hernandez to slip in the draft.

Eric (Weymouth)

How comparable in size did Brace look to Wilfork?

Mike Reiss

  (3:04 PM)

He's a big man, Eric. 6-3, 330. You can't miss him on the field.

Tyler (Ohio)

Mike, is this the year we end up cutting Matthew Slater? He is an average special teams player and it seems like we have plenty of capable options to replace him as kick returner (McCourty, Butler, Edelman). His roster spot would allow us to keep another wide receiver or linebacker.

Mike Reiss

  (3:05 PM)

I don't see it right now, Tyler. Watching practice today, he was back there as a kickoff returner with the top group. That's a sign to me that he's still held in high regard among the coaching staff.

Mark (Webster, MA)

Will sports reporters be allowed to observe and report on each session of next week's mini camp?

Mike Reiss

  (3:06 PM)

Let's end on this one, Mark. Media members will be on hand June 15-17. We'll plan on having it covered here on ESPNBoston.com. Appreciate your interest.

Mike Reiss

  (3:07 PM)

Thanks to everyone for chatting. Felt like I learned a lot about the Patriots watching today's practice. Was happy to have the chat right after to pass along some of the thoughts. We'll do it again next week.