Mike Reiss

  (11:59 AM)

Good afternoon and welcome to today's chat. Getting set up and then we'll get going here in a few. Beautiful day here in New England.

Mike Reiss

  (12:01 PM)

Going to fire out this test to see if we're up and running.

Mike Reiss

  (12:03 PM)

Testing.

Mike Reiss

  (12:05 PM)

Lead-in question today: Which Patriots signing do you like best? Hard for me to go with any of them over Lloyd. Think he is the biggest difference-maker. But I will be interested to hear your thoughts.

Kyle d (Charlotte)

Love what Bill has done in free agency thus far. Smart moves, solid prices, building a complete roster from top to bottom while adding depth. With that said, the draft is a month away and our defense still has some holes. Can we come away with 1-2 starters/impact defensive players particularly at safety and OLB/DE? A Harrison Smith/Whitney Mercilus combination or something along those lines could make us younger, faster, and more athletic.

Mike Reiss

  (12:08 PM)

That would be ideal, Kyle. Need to hit on a few defenders in the first two rounds. The Brace/Cunningham second-round combo hasn't worked out as projected (neither did Darius Butler). Although I don't want to close the book on Cunningham just yet. Big training camp for him, but I just didn't see much explosion out of him last camp.

Pat (New York)

Their best signing by far is not getting involved with Tebow. With the departure of M. Anderson where is the rush going to come from? How high up in the draft must the Patriots go to get an impact player in the defensive front 7?

Mike Reiss

  (12:09 PM)

Pat, I'm also glad there was no Tebow pursuit, but for different reasons (would have been a circus, I think). I think Tebow can help the Jets, where every day seems like it's a circus from this view. Impact players in the front 7 can be found right where they pick. Plenty of examples of that in recent years (Connor Barwin, Brooks Reed, Jabaal Sheard to name a few in recent years).

Eric (MA)

Who is going to play DE opposite Deaderick? Fanene will be in the mix. Brace has never lived up to expectation and Wilfork moves over there because there seems to be no other option. This to me is their biggest need (since they signed Gregory).

Mike Reiss

  (12:11 PM)

In the 3-4, could be Wilfork/Love/Deaderick combo if season started today. Not sure where Fanene fits just yet, so hard to say at this point. In the 4-3, it's a different look so we're looking at the Andre Carter/Markell Carter rush end type.

Shorty (Hollywood, CA)

Mike - I am really upset about the loss of BJGE, Esq. I just put my jersey up for sale on Ebay. Guy gave everything he had to the Patriots, never fumbled, and we just cast him off as if he was a nobody. What gives?

Mike Reiss

  (12:13 PM)

Shorty, not sure if you had a chance to read a piece I wrote today on ESPNBoston.com, but I'll pass along the link shortly. Bill Belichick has a lot of respect for Green-Ellis, but this was a case of assigning a value on the player and staying disciplined. Unfortunately, teams can't keep all the players. With Stevan Ridley and Shane Vereen having been selected with high picks last year, it's their time to step up.

Mike Reiss

  (12:13 PM)

Link to story: http://espn.go.com/boston/nfl/story/_/id/7720723/2012-nfl-free-agency-new-england-patriots-let-benjarvus-green-ellis-mark-anderson-walk-bill-belichick-knows-fold-pot-gets-too-big

Matt (Elon NC)

One of my favorite signings was that of Daniel Fells. I think having a third tight end is certainly a valuable piece that gives us solid depth -- Belichick has gone after both starters and depth players in free agency, and that's huge.

Mike Reiss

  (12:13 PM)

Thanks Matt. Liked Fells from the get-go. More flexibility, too.

William Wolf (Pittsburgh)

Mr. Reiss, It's been a while since the Superbowl, but it still really really REALLY hurts. Even though Brady played an amazing game, I'm worried that this will hurt his legacy. Will he ever get #4? In your opinion, what do the Pats have to do the get there? Also, could you see Stephen Hill for the Pats in late first round. He would be a perfect, Randy Moss (tall, fast) type deep threat to develop?

Mike Reiss

  (12:15 PM)

William, I wouldn't worry about Brady's legacy. That's secure. He's one of the best of all-time. I do think No. 4 is a possibility. The Patriots should be in the mix again. As for Hill, he's an intriguing one because of the lack of production and different type of offense he comes from at Tech. I'd lean toward defense there over Hill, assuming there's a good defender there to pick.

Jacob (Mass)

I'm just hoping in the upcoming draft we get a pass rusher that's effective and stays on the team. It seems like more recently we've been coming up with veterans as pass rushing band-aids so to speak.

Mike Reiss

  (12:17 PM)

Jacob, they've been going the one-year deal route with the likes of Andre Carter (2011), Mark Anderson (2011) and Trevor Scott (2012). When you do that, it's low risk, moderate reward. I align with your thinking that developing a difference-maker in the front-seven -- which is easier said than done -- would be a top priority for this club. Pass rushers, in particular, are a tricky one. They can come from all points in the draft.

Stephen (Holyoke, Mass.)

Hi Mike! Do you think that Brady restructured his contract so the Patriots could sing Welker to a deal?

Mike Reiss

  (12:18 PM)

Stephen, I'm not sure if Brady's restructure is tied to Wes, but my hunch would be no. Wes's salary cap charge is already high $9.5m and the team can already absorb it. So maybe it's for someone else on the roster and the idea that they could use the excess space for a larger base salary in 2012 instead of an up-front signing bonus.

don (boston)

Hey Mike, Do you think the pats are eyeing a running back early in the draft as they have already filled needs at wide reciever, D-line, and the secondary but are thin at halfback?

Mike Reiss

  (12:19 PM)

I'd be surprised at that, Don. After Ridley & Vereen high last year, I'd think they're not a high priority at that position.

Rob (Stoddard NH)

Mike.Two free agency questions for you in light of losing Anderson and the Lawfirm. 1) does the loss of Anderson make resigning Carter more imparative and how is his recovery going and 2) while losing Benny will hurt I believe that signing a veteran RB is now a must. What do you think ? I keep comimg up with the name of Tomlinson with a two year deal. As for bext signing LLOYD, hands down

Mike Reiss

  (12:20 PM)

Rob, I don't see LT here. Sort of like an oil and water mix from this view. Overall, I think they'll stick with what they have at RB. As for Anderson as it relates to Andre Carter, I do think it makes that re-signing more important. I think it will get done. Carter ahead of schedule on his rehab, his agent says.

Terry (NH)

With the cap room freed up by restructuring Brady's contract do you think the Patriots will make a splash by a big defensive signing before the draft? Or have most of the potential defensive starters been signed already?

Mike Reiss

  (12:21 PM)

Terry, I don't see the money created by Brady's restructure going to a player from another team. I see it being used to address needs already on the roster.

Seth (New Jersey)

My favorite signing is definitely Brandon Lloyd. The two tight end passing attack is deadly, but it will be even deadlier with a tall fast receiver leaping and catching along the sidelines.My question is --what has happened to the Patriots' defense, not just this year but for the last 6 or 7 years. When they won two consecutive super bowls, they had a fearsome defense, and they haven't had anything close since then. Why have they been unable to replace the personnel they had given such a long period in which to do it? I have a theory that the one player they couldn't replace when he left was Willie McGinest --a huge (for a linebacker) athletic and smart player. What are your thoughts?

Mike Reiss

  (12:24 PM)

Interesting theory, Seth, when it comes to McGinest. The defense is an interesting topic to me, and I lean toward your line of thinking when wondering how Bill Belichick has struggled to get the unit to the desired level over the last handful of years. The game has changed a bit, so that's part of it, but you see other defenses turn things around quickly (e.g. Texans). I don't have a good answer for you. Apologies. If I had to be pinned down, I'd say it comes down to personnel. Better players usually produce better results.

Dan (Denver)

I like the signing of Robert Gallery. He is a fierce competitor, and he has never played for a contender. If he stays healthy, it could be a steal.

Mike Reiss

  (12:24 PM)

Dan, that deal reminds me of the Brian Waters signing from last year. With Logan Mankins coming off ACL surgery, it adds another veteran hand to the mix.

Andy (Boston)

Do you know how much room the Patriots still have under the salary cap? I understand that their draft picks (if not traded) would cost about 5 to 6 million to sign.

Mike Reiss

  (12:25 PM)

Andy, that number is so fluid, it's almost pointless to track it. The one thing I'd say is that with Brady's restructure, cap space is not an issue for this team. It has flexibility to do what it would like.

Mike Reiss

  (12:25 PM)

But for a number, I'd put it around $13m, while keeping in mind how it fluctuates daily.

Dan (the beach)

Mike,Looks like big question marks with the O line. Are the Pats allowed to have discussions with players like Light and Waters so that they can keep up to date with what their plans may be?We'll look a lot different starting the year with no Mankins, Light and Waters.

Mike Reiss

  (12:26 PM)

Absolutely, Dan. I think they have a pretty good idea. My hunch -- Light retires, Waters comes back (barring a late change of heart as camp nears).

Ryan (Arizona)

How did you get a job as a sports analyst?

Mike Reiss

  (12:28 PM)

Ryan, I started at Patriots Football Weekly (1997-99), then worked at a local newspaper in suburban Boston (1999-2005), before moving on to the Boston Globe (2005-2009) and now ESPNBoston.com (2009-present). It's sort of like a player working his way from rookie free agent/practice squad/special teams contributor. Each year, you take on a little more and hopefully keep moving forward. Thanks for the interest.

J wright (waco, txs/westpalmbeach, fl,)

I ask you this on twitter yesterday .. you didnt respond back... what other free agents do you see the PATS brging in. and what two players you think the Pat will dafrt in the 1st round of the darft

Mike Reiss

  (12:30 PM)

Sorry for the lack of response on Twitter. They come fast and furious and it's quite difficult to answer them all. Also here in this chat, there are now 300-plus questions, so it is a challenge to answer them all. DL Luis Castillo, DL Trevor Laws and FB Spencer Larsen are three names to keep on the radar. All visited the club. As for the draft, interior DL, DB OL and WR are the target areas IMO.

Hardy (Los Angeles)

Mike,I love Lloyd and all the Depth pickups! Love getting a lot of this done pre draft to allow us to pick the best player available instead of having to plug holes in the draft! Great strategy by the Pats!

Mike Reiss

  (12:31 PM)

We'll see how it turns out, Hardy. I tend to agree with you, but I remember being high on the 2009 pickups of Chris Baker, Fred Taylor, Shawn Springs etc., and that fizzled pretty quickly.

Dan (Lebanon, NH)

Mike, What do you think of the possibility of the Patriots trading for Jarred Allen. He would be a perfect fit for the Pats as we need need pressure coming off the end. Imagine Allen on one side and A. Carter(if we can resign and healthy) on the other, can you spell PRESSURE. An Aging veteran that wants to win a ring and since Minnesota needs all the help they can can get I feel a third round draft pick would be good value for their semi rebuilding process. What are you thoughts?

Mike Reiss

  (12:32 PM)

Dan, I don't see Allen in the Patriots' future. Just not their m.o. They are more likely to look for the "next Allen" in the draft. More cost effective that way, too.

401PatsFan (RI)

The move that I've enjoyed the most was NOT signing Mario Williams. That's alot of coin for one guy not named Brady or Manning. And there's no way he'll live up to that contract. Kudos to BB sticking to the script.

Mike Reiss

  (12:34 PM)

Tough to sign Williams to that type of contract from a locker-room dynamic standpoint. Vince Wilfork is your highest-paid defender at 8m and now you're going to bring someone in who is double that? On paper it looks nice but I think it could create resentment among others in the room, as Mike Lombardi of NFL Network recently noted.

Pierre (Paris, France)

Very disappointed we couldn't keep Anderson and sign Landry. But, the Pats were never going to pay that much for both of them. Sadly, i don't see a lot of players NE could sign at DE or S. Maybe Bell or Atogwe at safety. Looks like this will be adressed in the draft. But who?

Mike Reiss

  (12:36 PM)

I still think there are answers on the market. Feel like Luis Castillo and Trevor Laws would be good additions to DL (not pure DEs, but just assume they draft one) and Yeremiah Bell is a worthy look at safety. Long way to go here ... we're just getting cranked up.

Rob (Borough of Manhattan)

Mike, I have to wish the LawFirm good luck. He wasn't flashy but he was consistent and hard working... a guy that was very easy to root for.

Mike Reiss

  (12:37 PM)

I'm with you, Rob. A lot to like about Green-Ellis. He deserves everything coming to him. My take: This is just the way the business goes. Can't keep 'em all. Not fun, especially when it's a player who is easy to root for, but the Patriots have a philosophy and they stick to it. It works for them.

James (Iowa)

What are the chances that we pick up Luis Castillo? He looked like a solid starter in the past.

Mike Reiss

  (12:38 PM)

I like it, James. Just a matter of how far they want to extend. Would probably be one of those Shaun Ellis type deals. They paid Ellsis $4m last year and I think that would get it done with Castillo if they like him. Maybe even less. Chargers and Chiefs also in the mix.

Ian B (Ottawa, ON)

Any word on the 2012 schedule release? I know typically it's late April but does the NFL just spring it on us or do they have a date in mind?I'm excited cause if the Pats play the first weekend at home I can work a game into our Boston/New York honeymoon. Woooooooo.

Mike Reiss

  (12:40 PM)

Now that's good game-planning, Ian. I'm thinking mid-April but no set date yet. Late April, they generally like to clear the runway for the draft.

John (Mohegan Sun)

Mike, after a player visits with the team, what is usually the turn around for possible contract negotiations? You said above Castillo has already been up. If that Pats are interested do they wait to see what other teams might offer him before they put in there offer?

Mike Reiss

  (12:40 PM)

It varies, John, depending on the level of the offer. The Patriots obviously like Castillo at a certain price. It must not be at a price Castillo is ready to jump at now. So the process continues.

Fezyk (CO)

Hey Mike. Is Ocho's presence on the roster an indicator that he'll get a chance to win a spot on the team, or is he a June 1st cap casualty in waiting?

Mike Reiss

  (12:41 PM)

I don't look at Ocho's spot as anything close to a certainty. If I had to guess, he won't be back.

Ryan (Maryland)

Has there been a one-year "prove it" deal (like Mark Anderson's) that has turned into a multi-year deal in recent years? Why not more two year deals?

Mike Reiss

  (12:42 PM)

Ryan, Tully Banta-Cain comes to mind. Comes back in 2009 on a one-year deal. Has a good year. Gets the three-year extension but it doesn't work out and he's cut after one year. As for why not more 2-year deals, it's not as enticing for the player. The incentive for the player to take that type of deal is to prove himself in one year so he can get a bigger deal the next year.

Kevin O'Malley (Hoosick Falls NY)

Upgrade at wide at WR. Now what about the pass rush?So far they have not replaced 20 sacks and the secondary has had only had a slight upgrade. Can you count on rookies from the draft?

Mike Reiss

  (12:43 PM)

Kevin, I think Fanene will help. Also think Gregory will help on the back end. A team can't answer all its questions in one fell swoop. There are a lot of different layers. Long way to go.

munchkin (glenwood springs, co)

It's easy to like the Lloyd deal as I believe his athleticism will allow him to make some highlight reel catches. But I am also really excited about the way BB has used Free Agency as a "supplemental" draft by taking players in need areas. Fanene adds experience and depth for the D-line and Trevor Scott has flashed when healthy. Gallery is a plus player at the guard position and provides insurance following the Mankins' surgery and with Waters' age/indecision. With Bill's continuing focus on Special Teams the signings of Slater, Gregory and Marquice Cole will help there. We will see on Gonzales; he gave Pats' d'backs fits when he was healthy.Perhaps not having some of those later picks in this year's draft pushed the coaching staff in the direction of adding depth in Free Agency. Not having those later picks opened some camp roster spots. Maybe Bill will use the picks where they are this year rather than trading down in an attempt to add later picks. At least he has the flexibility to do.

Mike Reiss

  (12:44 PM)

Thanks munchkin.

Tron (Waltham, MA)

Hey Mike, Do you think the Bills have learned something from watching the Giants dominant the Patriots the past few years on defense? Seems like the Bills recognize the only way to stop the Tom Brady led patriots is with a fierce pass rush. With the additions of Anderson and Williams to go along with Marcel Dareus it seems like (on paper) the Bills will have the pieces to harass Brady much the same way the Giants do. While many have been perturbed by the focus on offense for the Patriots during free agency, I think it's been the right idea considering the strengths of the rest of the teams in the AFC East are on the defensive side of the ball. On a separate note, I believe the depth the Patriots have built along the front seven during free agency will allow them to take some chances during the draft. What are you thoughts on both these ideas?

Mike Reiss

  (12:46 PM)

Just got a quick call...quick timeout.

Mike Reiss

  (12:53 PM)

When Tedy Bruschi calls, you have to answer.

Mike Reiss

  (12:54 PM)

Apologies. Tron, my thought on the Bills: Why not? They are in a different place and need to do something. If I'm a fan there, I'm excited about the possibilities on defense. I would say this: I think the Bills' biggest problems were depth-based. They had a big drop-off when some of the top guys got injured. The big signings don't address that. As for the Patriots, I like what they've done. They're a deeper team. But the draft remains the key to me.

BP (Broolyn)

Mike: love your work and all the Pats' moves so far. When looking at Ridely and Vereen, do you think either can best Woodhead on pass protection? Otherwise, I worry that they can't stay on the field.Thanks

Mike Reiss

  (12:56 PM)

BP, I think Vereen has that in him. I'm excited to see what he can do. Just 25 snaps last year, in part because of injury. They didn't draft him to sit. This is his time. I think people are somewhat forgetting about him. He is fast and can add a dimension to this offense that I don't think has been there.

Mike (Marco Island)

Mike, my assessment was that BJGE was never really a #1 featured back (more like a 1a) and that there was no chance we were going to sign him because we demand value in all but a handful of superstar players. Also I feel we will never sign Welker to a long term deal because he is approaching an age that all recievers start to decline in production, and 10M is a huge 1 yr payday as it is. I think the way to go is sign guys in the 4m range (lloyd) thats going to give you massive production. Thoughts?

Mike Reiss

  (12:58 PM)

I think they viewed Green-Ellis for what he was -- a 34-percent playtime option who was a hammer in close. The closer he got to the goal-line, the better he was. Danny Woodhead played 33 percent of the snaps, so it's a combo the way they do it. I think the combo of Ridley, Vereen and Woodhead can be effective. Give them a chance.

Mike Reiss

  (12:58 PM)

Let's go for another 5...

Blake (DC)

Full time switch to DB for Edelman?

Mike Reiss

  (12:59 PM)

I like him at WR, Blake. I thought it was telling that Edelman didn't play a defensive snap in the Super Bowl.

Jeff (Helena)

When will the restricted free agents get a real look? Wallace and Webb? or is the price just too hight?

Mike Reiss

  (12:59 PM)

Jeff, I think the price is too high.

Mike (DC)

Is the Pats' "veteran RB" need filled in house with Kevin Faulk? it'd be nice to have him back for a full offseason, if nothing else than to have him play off the books coach for Ridley and Vereen for another year. Can we get any better at 4th RB than Faulk, I think not...

Mike Reiss

  (1:00 PM)

I don't see it, Mike. I think a fullback who contributes on special teams (Spencer Larsen?) would be a better fit in the 4 hole.

Tom (Maine)

Favorite signing is Fanane. DL is critical and he is a very solid player.Now that Tom Brady has restructured to free up $7.2 million in cap space, do you expect the Pats to continue to be active in free agency?

Mike Reiss

  (1:01 PM)

Thanks Tom. I'd be surprised if there were any major signings in free agency, other than the team's own players.

Mike (DC)

Does the offesnive bonanza mean the Pats are going hard on defense this year in the draft? I honestly can't see a single hole on offense we haven't addressed...

Mike Reiss

  (1:02 PM)

Offensive line still has some moving parts, Mike. I don't think this locks in D for the draft, but I'd lean in that direction if guessing which direction they go.

SamB (Worcester,MA)

My favorite signing has been Gallery. He's a nasty player who battled through injuries last season to prove his toughness. Mankins may not be ready for the start of the season, if not, Gallery could provide us with Biran Waters type production from last seaon.My question back..do you think we will have a new favorite after Brady restructured his contract yesterday? Something in the works perhaps? I couldn't imagine Brady doing that with so much cap space available unless it improves the team.

Mike Reiss

  (1:02 PM)

Thanks Sam.

Satz (boston)

So much capital and time is being spend on the top 5 offense when the 31st defense is the one scares me. We have to move that defense to top 15 atleast to have more success.

Mike Reiss

  (1:03 PM)

Satz, that is a thought that has been echoed by others. I understand it and agree. Still time left. Draft, free agency, trades. We're looking at an incomplete picture.

Paul (Kenosha, WI)

Mike, While listening to ESPNChicago this morning the Bears signed Michael Bush. Waddle and Silvey were speculating the Bears might trade Matt Forte. Think the Pats would be interested? Especially with Brady freeing up cap room.

Mike Reiss

  (1:04 PM)

Paul, I don't think the Patriots, who skew heavily to the pass, are interested in paying a tpo RB in the $7m per year range.

jd (work)

why weren't the pats in on Wimbley - I think they had been rumored to be linked to him in the past and the Titans didn't pay too much.

Mike Reiss

  (1:04 PM)

Probably money and contract length.

Jim (Boston)

Hi Mike,What did Tedy want?

Mike Reiss

  (1:05 PM)

Ha. Just checking in on some ESPN stuff. Always feel smarter after talking to him.

Gary (No VA)

With Dowling coming back and Sterling Moore making some plays late in the year, do the Pats draft another CB?

Mike Reiss

  (1:05 PM)

Gary, I don't think they have to, but if the right CB is there, it wouldn't surprise me.

Mike Reiss

  (1:06 PM)

Belichick once said something like "You can never have enough corners."

Jonathan (Cumberland, RI)

Answer: Tedy wanted to confirm tee time.

Mike Reiss

  (1:06 PM)

:)

Mike Reiss

  (1:06 PM)

My golf game -- very, very, very ugly. Wouldn't want to embarrass myself.

mark (nyc)

Mike - are there any early indications on what BJGE got in terms of contract and gte dollars? He will surely be missed by all, but, I think with the context of what he received, it could at least help to understand why or why not he is not going to be a Patriot next season. Thanks

Mike Reiss

  (1:06 PM)

Haven't heard yet, Mark. Will come out in due time, I'm sure.

BigDGP (SoCal)

Mike, how about addressing KR and PR for special teams. Is there any opportunity to do that before that draft?

Mike Reiss

  (1:07 PM)

I think that will be a priority in the draft. Florida's Chris Rainey someone I'm keeping an eye on.

trader75 (wilton, ct)

answer: tedy was confirming what time you were coming over to clean his garage

Mike Reiss

  (1:07 PM)

That's more like it. And with that, why don't we end on a laugh.

Mike Reiss

  (1:08 PM)

Thanks to everyone for chatting today. Always fun. Let's plan on it again next Thursday.

Mike Reiss

  (1:08 PM)

I'll go through and post everyone's thoughts on favorite signings shortly.

Pierre (Paris, France)

Best signing? Lloyd. Given the price of the contract, the hole filled with his signature. If he connects with Brady, the passing game will be nearly impossible to stop.

marc (london) [via mobile]

While I think the Lloyd deal will open the field up, it's the Fells deal which really wets the appetite. The mind boggles at wrinkles you could see with 3 pass catching TE's on the field.

Lucas (Boston)

Also, Jonathan Fanene is my favorite free agent signing so far, seems like a versatile player along the line

Nick (Woburn, MA)

As much as I want to pick something different, how can your favorite signing not be Brandon Lloyd? They got him significantly cheaper than receivers that are not nearly as talented as him (including the ABSURD Pierre Garcon contract), he knows the McDaniels offense, and it was a glaring need on the Patriots. I really like the Fells signing as well since I think it will allow Hernandez to really move to a WR role, and also a nice backup TE in case Gronk/Hernandez gets hurt, but the Lloyd signing takes the cake

JoaoGA (Lisbon, Portugal)

Good afternoon Mike, so far I'll say that the Lloyd acquisition, for its value (play and ?) seems the best.

Adrian Jones (London, UK)

Hi Mike, love your blog, looking forward to Wembley again this year.Favourite offseason signing - Brandon Lloyd.

Bill (Villanova)

Lead in Question: I really like bringing back Donte' Stallworth. I think he will make the team, and I think Tom has a good relationship with him.

Rob (Borough of Manhattan)

Hi Mike! On your lead-in question, my favorite signing is... all of them! I love what BB has done in the offseason so far - he solved the one major hole on offense by getting Brandon Lloyd and has added quality depth at several positions. What's not to like?

Stefan (Friedberg, Germany)

Hi Mike,my favorite signing is Brandon Llyod... Stop! That's too easy! I go with Robert Gallery. If he can stay healthy this could be an upgrade for an already very good OL.

Karl (Under the umbrella)

Am I the only one that is ecstatic about the signing of Brandon Lloyd? He is a great receiver that excels at A) Catching the ball (something sorely missed in the Superbowl) B) Beating man coverage and C) Making the big plays. He also was incredibly reasonable with his demands since he professed his longing desire to be with the Patriots. He sounds like the missing cog in the offense to me.

Rob (Atl)

Most impactful signing I hope is BLloyd the rap star, but my favorite is Robert Gallery. If he's healthy that's another nasty road grading lineman who will be especially important if Mankins isn't ready for the season.

Adam (Minneapolis)

Hey Mike - My favorite signing so far has been a NON-signing, and that is not going after top-dollar wideouts Mike Wallace and Desean Jackson. Although we know from 2007 how dangerous Tom Brady can be with a premier deep receiver, he just hasn't made those throws in recent years (partly because of personnel, I admit). No need to spend top dollar on a guy who is only going to catch 10-15% of the balls with such a loaded passing offense already in place.

Bill (Louisiana)

Like several signings but Lloyd should help the downfield passing game

Blake McDonald (Washington DC)

Favorite signing is Fanene. Gives needed help to interior D-Line.

jblackburner (ATL)

Mike, in regards to your lead-in question, I'm going to say Fanene. I love how team-friendly the deal was for Lloyd, and I hope he becomes the key offensive piece that was missing last season, but the idea of a reasonably-priced, versatile DLineman that can generate a pass rush *up the middle* is going to help out a lot, with a trickle-down effect to helping the secondary.

Liam (Charlestown)

Mike, my favorite offseason acquisition is Brandon Llyod. He shores up a shaky WR corps a bit, and he knows the offense. I think he, Welker and maybe Branch or Stallworth as the #3 WR will be better than what NE had last year. A close 2nd is Fells, especially if it means that he can be a receiving threat as a 3rd TE. That should only help this offense even more.

Marc Nunes (Middletown, RI)

The popular pick in this case will be Brandon Lloyd (and rightfully so), but I think my favorite offseason signing was Donte Stallworth. He, like Lloyd, has the ability to stretch the field and has already shown that he understands the offense. The Patriots 5 receiver sets will be lethal, assuming that they use Gronkowski and Hernandez as part of the package. Defensive coordinators are going to have fits with this offense because there are 3 guys who demand double coverage (Lloyd, Welker, and Gronkowski) and two players that are going to thrive with the lack of attention. Not to mention that they can motion either Hernandez or Welker into the backfield and run the football. Not to jump the gun here, but this team is the most balanced (passing wise) I've ever seen. They have 5 threats that can beat you if you don't account for them. I don't think a great pass rush can beat this offense now, the underneath stuff will be open because Stallworth and Lloyd will force the defense to respect the over the top threat.

Bunk (Baltimore)

Mike, I think the signing of Gallery was arguably the best dollar-for-dollar move this off-season. It was a typical Belichick move---little noticed but very shrewd. Gallery has the potential, if he can stay healthy, to be a major contributor likes Waters last season. Scarnecchia can do wonders with talent like Gallery. As of now, it looks like the Pats OL will face some losses this offseason with Light and Waters both considering retirement. Also, Mankins may not be 100% at the start of the season because of his ACL surgery. Having Gallery, who can play both guard and tackle, provides insurance. Basically, it solidifies the offensive line depth and allows the Pats to be aggressive towards addressing other positions in the draft.

Ian B (Ottawa, ON)

My favorite signing has gotta be Brandon Lloyd. I was getting a little worried that the Pats were going to be left behind the WR signing train but I was happy when they signed Lloyd. I think the key we've learned over the past couple years is that the Pats offense is far from 'plug and play' and TB doesn't find chemistry with every receiver. With Lloyd, all signs point to this being a great match.

Shorty (Hollywood, CA)

Mike - I really like the Daniel Fells signing - so much so that I just bought his jersey. Not having a backup TE probably cost us the Super Bowl. Now, with Fells, nothing can stop us.

Nate (Oxon Hill MD)

Hi mike , thanks for all the info . I think I like all as it will bring good competition in camp and add dept . And one or two of these guys besides Lloyd would actually end up been a steal . Thanks.

Anton Ackermann (Bloemfontein, South Africa)

I like the signing of Fells we saw the impact of an injured Gronk in SB46, do see pats adding depth at RB because of BJGE at CIN

Steve5495 (Clearwater Fl.)

Gallery is my #1 signing.

Al (Newark, NJ)

It's a toss up between Will Allen and Gallery. Both guys a bit weathered, but could be huge contributors where the Pats needed some significant help.

Brandon (Bangor)

My favorite signing has to be Fanene. He looks like he could be useful in both the 3-4 and the 4-3, which is valuable for a team that's a little thin at the position. The price was also a great fit for the team because he probably won't be a starter for the team but a rotation player.

Dave (NYC)

Biggest signing....Lloyd. Pats desperately (if a Tom Brady led- super bowl team can be classified as such)needed an outside receiver, and got one for what seems to be a very reasonable price. as you alway point out, it doesn't guarantee success, but on paper, great move. I view this offseason similar to the 2007 season, the Pats are loading up on offense, bringing in 3 receivers. the difference being Lloyd for Moss with Moss being a bigger name. But the acuistion of three receivers makes me think that the Pats will have the potential to absolutely overwhelm many of the average teams they'll play. They've also created draft maneuverability by lessening the absolute need to draft at certain posiitons this year, i.e. receiver. I think they'd love to trade a one in exchange for a 2 and 1 next year again. Now, if they can hit on a defensive player or two in this year's draft, this team can really be scary good next year.

Alvin (Amherst, MA)

Favorite offseason signing: Brandon Lloyd considering these ridiculous contracts other receivers are signing. In addition, New England could have finally found someone who could make receptions outside the numbers/beyond 15 yards.

Brendan (Washington, DC)

In response to the lead in question I'm sure many will go with the biggest splash, Brandon Lloyd, as the best free-agent signing. I agree with this being a huge signing to open up the middle of the field, but a deep threat accomplishes nothing if we can't keep Brady off his back end. With Logan Mankins' status questionable to start the season, and Light's and Waters' futures unknown, I see the signings of Gallery and Connolly to be extremely important. There are always injuries on the line, and these signings provide some insurance/depth to keep our franchise quarterback upright.

rick (ct)

Mike, my favorite Patriots signing this off season is A Gonzalez. IF healthy he is better than anyone else as 3rd wideout.

Eric (Brookline)

My favorite signings so far have to be all the WR's, Lloyd is a proven in the mcdaniels system, Gonzo is high reward low risk if he gets hurt he basically costs nothing if he stays healthy he gives us a veteran presence and solid 4th WR, and Stallworth has succeeded in this system before and knows what Brady expects out of his Wr's. I think the best part about it is the competition it creates. It forces every WR on the team to compete for their roster spot.

Drew-L (leicester)

My favorite move('s) have been Gregory and Fanene... Depth at a cheap price... you get both quality for not much quantity

Scott (Lugoff SC.)

Lloyd is the tipping point, opposing Def. can't double team all of the Pats. WR's

Nick (Denver)

Mike, I loved the re-signing of Connelly - it gives some stability on the interior OL.

mpc12pats (Work)

Mike - to answer your question - Gallary. Protecting Brady is first and foremost, and there is never enough quality OL on the roster.

Branden (Nashua)

Lead in question: Mine is a little different, but I like the Pats not signing BJGE. I liked him while he was here, but I think he is only average at best. We used two draft picks last year on RBs and I think Vereen could be the real deal. I look forward to seeing him get the bulk of the carries!

Vikram (Boston)

To me, there are two pick ups that I liked the most - Brandon Lloyd and TE Fells.

max (my cube)

Hi Mike,Regarding the lead-in question I'd lean towards the Gallery signing - wonder if it'll turn out to be similar to the Waters signing last year.

JeffJMerritt ((Twitter))

I agree about Lloyd being the biggest impact signing and will end up with the best statistical year of all the new comers so far. I'm a big fan of the Fells signing though. I think he's gonna be over looked as far as the impact he could have. He's a good blocker, but also can get open and catch the ball. I think he adds a dynamic to the 3 TE set that was missing last year, not to mention some insurance if there's an injury.

Riley (Fairfax, VA)

Mike thanks for the chat as always- I agree that the Lloyd signing was huge, and from a playmaking aspect it'll definitely help, but I also believe that the resigning of Slater was a big move that flew under the radar a bit... Good veteran and does a lot of things for the team, helping in all three phases (not to mention was a captain).

matt (scarborough, me)

I like the Gregory signing. I think he can and will be a solid contributor to the back end. Also really like the Will Allen signing. Maybe hes just a camp body, but I think he can help the young guys and maybe push them as well. I love all those types of signings. A very strong middle class is where superbowls are won.

Gary (No VA)

Mike, my favorite signing so far is Tracy White. I think he was somewhat underrated in what he brought to the team last year.

Ryan (Oregon) [via mobile]

My favorite offseason signing was the one they didn't make: Mario Williams. He's a dynamic player, but he wouldn't be worth the contract required to obtain him for the Patriots.

Jonathan (Cumberland, RI)

Look at all the questions on the OL. Light,Waters possible retirement. Koppen still a free-agent. Solder,Volmer health. The best free-agent signing was Robert Gallery. Expect 2nd rd pick on the OL too.

Brian (Chapel Hill, NC)

I love that we didn't trade for Tebow. I don't see why we'd ever want him on the field if doing so meant Brady had to come off the field.

Mike Reiss

  (2:01 PM)

I think I got them all. Lot of submissions. Thanks to everyone for making it a lively chat.