Mike Reiss

  (2:00 PM)

Good afternoon. Today was a lot of fun.

Mike Reiss

  (2:01 PM)

Hey, I know it's only May and there are no pads, but watching an organized team activity is a lot better than watching nothing at all. It is a beautiful day here in New England and from 10:45-12:15 it was a treat to watch the players work, the coaches coach, and a generally well-oiled operation do its thing.

Mike Reiss

  (2:01 PM)

Happy to answer as many questions as possible up until 3 p.m. ET.

Stephen S (Marathon Fl)

Hi Mike I could use some of your wisdom and understanding in regards to the rookies. Who can and who can not attend the OTA practices? Thanks in advance.

Mike Reiss

  (2:02 PM)

Stephen, everyone can attend OTA practices, but rookies who are unsigned do so with a little more risk.

lastexposfan (brookline, ma)

One of the things that makes a great head coach is his ability to change with the times. The much discussed story of the Patriots' off-season has been Bill Belichick's recognition that the NFL has become a spread-offense league (in part, of his own doing on offense), and elevating the sub-package to central status. But the less discussed change has been his recognition of the importance of depth on the roster. The 2nd, 3rd, and even 4th option at a position is now frequently relied on in the brutal football season. Do you agree that these two trends have defined off-season 2012, and are there others of equal importance?

Mike Reiss

  (2:04 PM)

Yes, I do. The goal of building better depth on the roster certainly stands out to me. They've focused on that middle class. We've seen BB do that before (2001 comes to mind) and this seems similar to me. As for the sub package stuff, that has also been a theme. If we wanted to be a little critical, knowing what we know now, I think one could make the case BB could have been thinking along those lines in 2010 and 2011 as well.

Greg (Cranston, RI)

Hey Mike,I know Nike said individual teams would announce their own plans for 2012 alternate jerseys since some teams would make some changes. Do you have any inside information about what the Pats plans are?Thanks,Greg

Mike Reiss

  (2:04 PM)

Greg, I haven't heard about alternate jerseys for the Patriots this year. I assume it would be the throwback.

MATT (MANSFIELD)

HEY MIKE, NOT ABOUT THE PATS BUT WHO DO YOU THINK WILL END THE SEASON AS THE JETS STARTING QB? AND, WILL THEY MAKE THE PLAYOFFS? IM A HUGE PATS FAN, BUT IM ALSO A BIG TEBOW FAN. HAVING HIM IN THE SAME DIVISION MAKES ME QUITE NERVOUS

Mike Reiss

  (2:05 PM)

Matt, from afar, I think it's Sanchez's job, with Tebow mixing in. Pure speculation on my part.

Paul (Norwich, CT)

Mike, thanks for keeping up to date on all the off season things going on. One thing that I never hear about that I think could end up being a huge concern is how healthy is Gronk? Should we see him spiking the ball at 100% by week one? On another note... Do you see the pats trying to use Mayo as more of a pass rusher or on the edge considering the new depth at ILB? I seem to remember him being a different kind of role when everyone else was healthy. I would love to see him going after the QB and becoming the play making type of player. Thanks for everything!!!! See you at training camp!

Mike Reiss

  (2:06 PM)

Paul, Gronkowski was on the field for today's OTA, but he was working off to the side, which is a sign that he is not yet 100 percent. The fact he was on the field at all tells me he is making progress. Not all injured players were even on the sidelines for this one.

mike (greenwich ct)

so ... top three reasons for us to be excited.

Mike Reiss

  (2:07 PM)

1. Loaded roster with Brady at QB; 2. Weakened AFC; 3. New-look defense.

William (Boston, MA)

What are your thoughts on the possible offensive position groupings this year? I see the patriots as having a lethal offense once they get everything down. As a game plan offense, do you see them causing mismatches by switching from their Gronk/Hernandez/Welker/Lloyd to a spread with Welker/Lloyd/Gaffney/Stallworth (or Hernandez, Edleman, Ocho, Branch, ect)?I think a no huddle offense with the first grouping going from a tight to spread formation would be lethal. Your thought?

Mike Reiss

  (2:08 PM)

It's going to be fun to watch, William, because I get the sense they will be able to do whatever they want -- if it all comes together. And I think they will do a lot, when it comes down to it. A lot of weapons.

Ray Foley (Newton, MA)

I know the new rules have devalued kickoff returns, but it appears that BB has devalued it to zero. It seems out of character that he would overlook any chance for an edge. What's up?

Mike Reiss

  (2:09 PM)

Ray, I don't think he's de-valued it to zero, although I agree it's not as important to BB as it once was. We didn't see kickoff work today, but I think they could have some answers already on the roster (Ridley? Vereen? Edelman?). I'm anxious to see what they try.

Corky (Destin Fl.)

Mike: What does the DB look like in these early days? love that we drafted pass rushers, but my main concern is still in the back field, anyone standing out to you??

Mike Reiss

  (2:10 PM)

Corky, I think Dowling could make a big difference if he's healthy. He just looks different than the rest of them. Big. A good matchup against those bigger WR receivers. McCourty at CB. Chung and Gregory probably open at S, but this will be a heavy sub defense team, most likely (Arrington in the slot). I see more options this year.

Pete (Vermont)

Hi Mike What is Mike Wrights status ? Is he officially retired ? Also I am with you on Shane Vereen being the guy {if healthy} that I want to watch and see what he brings to the offense but next in line for me would be Brandon Lloyd. It should be fun

Mike Reiss

  (2:11 PM)

Pete, Wright isn't officially retired, I don't believe, but my understanding is that he's not in the condition to play at this point. Vereen/Lloyd will be fun. They could add something different to the offense that we didn't see in 2011.

Mango (Finland)

Hey Mike! What are your thoughts on Josh McDaniels returning to the team? What type of offensive changes could we possible look forward to this season (if at all)?

Mike Reiss

  (2:12 PM)

Great, Mango. One of my takeaways from today's OTA was how McDaniels is fun to watch. He coaches hard. Every moment is a teachable moment. I think he can help these players on offense be better.

T.J. (Melbourne, FL)

Mike, you seem to be very high on Shane Vereen, and I share that belief. DO you think Vereen could have a Dillon like year this year, using Woodhead and Ridley like a Kevin Faulk?

Mike Reiss

  (2:13 PM)

T.J., I don't see Vereen in the Dillon-type 2004 workhorse role. He's one spoke on the running back wheel. I think we'll still see a lot of the other backs as well.

T.J. (Melbourne, FL)

Last year Gronkowski had a record breaking season, but Hernandez is no slouch either. I think Hernandez could actually be more valuable being that he can play multiple positions (TE, Slot, even RB) What do you think the odds are we keep them both next year?

Mike Reiss

  (2:14 PM)

We'll double you up, T.J. They are both under contract through 2013. I view Gronkowski as more valuable because he's a true combination TE -- equally as effective as a blocker and pass-catcher -- but like you said Hernandez is good too. This is a challenge for Patriots management, but by being smart and creative, they should keep both.

Kenny (Maine)

Hi Mike, great chat you provide us, thank you. Concerning Wes WelkerDo you think 3 years at 24 million, with 18 gaurenteed would do it. He is smart enough to know if the Pats want to stay competitive,they will not break the bank for him.

Mike Reiss

  (2:15 PM)

Kenny, I think that might be light from Welker's perspective, but if he took it, I don't think it's a bad deal for him.

Tibbs (Stoughton)

Hey Mike, of all the games this year, which do you see being the toughest? The one that stands out to me is the 49ers. They already have a great defense and they've improved a weak set of receivers. The secondary better step up if they want to stop Moss, Manningham, Crabtree, and Vernon Davis.

Mike Reiss

  (2:16 PM)

That's a tough one, Tibbs. I'll lean toward a road game -- Week 3, at Baltimore. Prime-time.

Max (Burlington, VT)

If they do any 1v1s can you report the winners? Esp interested Hightower and Cjones in coverage.

Mike Reiss

  (2:16 PM)

None of that today, Max.

Joe (Wayne NJ)

Why are players so against wearing hip and thigh pads? Under armor and other companies make compression shorts with built in pads that really do not affect ones ability to move in the least. They are flexible, barely stick out of the compression short, and do not limit mobility. The pads really do prevent annoying and nagging injuries like hip pointers, deep thigh bruises, etc., and the stronger your body is overall, the less likely you are to suffer a major injury like a torn acl, etc. I am one of the fans against most measures to make the game safer--its a brutal sport, and changing too much of the game itself ruins the fun and amazing nature of the sport. However, minor and smart adjustments to equipment like requiring hip and thigh pads, along with certain helmet requirements, are necessary to keep the athletes safe, along with focusing on helping players adjust to life after football.

Mike Reiss

  (2:17 PM)

Joe, players are creatures of habit and they want to be at a comfort level that they feel helps them produce at the highest level. You balance that with safety. I know Tom Brady has battled with this when it comes to his helmet. The fit is so important to him, but he also doesn't want to put his head at risk.

Rob (Borough of Manhattan)

Hey Mike! I see the team brought in 3 offensive linemen for workouts... does imply anything about the status of Brian Waters? Or is it just a case of the team doing its "due diligence" on available free agents? Thanks!

Mike Reiss

  (2:19 PM)

Rob, Waters was not here today for the voluntary OTA, but as we know, it's dangerous to read too much into that. I do think with Waters not here, Mankins still recovering from ACL surgery, Light retired, and Vollmer not here, there are some moving parts/uncertainty with the line. It's WAAAAAY early, and that is important context, but this is an area that I could envision Bill Belichick having some questions/concerns about.

Noah (Jacksonville)

You had a post in the mailbag about possibility of 3 TE sets with Fells being the 3rd tight end. But do you think if the Pats had signed Clark when he came in (or traded for Winslow for instance) that they Pats could have started another new trend going out of the 3 TE set for a majority of plays?I get with Fells not being much of a receiving target you would have a catching TE, a combo TE and a blocking TE. But what if the 3rd TE was someone in between Hernandez & Gronk instead of on the other spectrum of Gronk (like a Dallas Clark)Could you see the Pats maybe doing this next year and possibly letting Welker walk in FA? With 3 TEs out there 2 of which are like big WRs plus Gronk you could run over most people with 3TE sets and have total mismatches.And before you say no, or blow off this question, think back 3 or 4 years if we had asked you if they would change into this style of 2 TE passing offense.

Mike Reiss

  (2:21 PM)

I don't think so, Noah, because the question becomes "Is Fells more valuable to you than a second receiver like Welker/Lloyd, or a running back like Ridley/Vereen/Woodhead?" I don't think he would be.

Rebecca (Brooklyn)

Hi Mike,This is the first summer where, because of a new job, I have some flexibility with my schedule, and would like to get some Patriots QT in. What are the options for fans to take part in or watch the team's pre-season activities? And is it just a matter of showing up in Foxborough?As always, appreciate your coverage of this team. Makes the off-season!

Mike Reiss

  (2:22 PM)

Rebecca, I recommend a trip down to Gillette for when training camp starts (in late July). The practices are open, but when there is bad weather, they close them. So it's important to know schedules are fluid and it's always good to check ESPNBoston.com or other sites for the latest information/times/schedules. The official start of training camp has yet to be announced, but plan for late July and the camp to be open for a few weeks.

Rick (Providence)

Mike the more I look at the Patriots off season moves the more I think we are going to see a different philosophy on offense and defense. They are invested at TE and it looks like they are beefing up the fullback position. Perhaps they want to give a spread look then play smashmouth football and run the ball. I think part of the problems the defense may have had in recent years is the offense was so potent that it is easy to be ranked 31st in pass defense when that is all opponents do to try and play catch up.My questions are1. Do you see Chandler Jones as a pass rush specialist his first couple of years until he bulks up or is he going to be a three down player?2. Do you thinkout LB corp has the potential to make that of the Giants with Taylor, Peppers and Carson and company? I really like our LBs with Spikes being the emotional leader.Thanks

Mike Reiss

  (2:26 PM)

Rick, I wouldn't put a cap on Jones just yet. I think he can be more than just a specialist, but that seems like a good place to start. Not to fully drink the Bill Belichick Kool-Aid on this one, but he tells a good story about LB Roman Phifer. When the Patriots signed Phifer in 2001, the thought was that he'd be a part-time player, yet he ended up playing more than 90 percent of the snaps (if I remember correctly). That's why you never limit it on Day 1. They probably have a vision of what Jones will be, but they'll let the process play out and if he deserves more, he'll get more. On the LB corps, that's an elite group you mention from the Giants. I would hesitate to go there at this time.

Bill (Maine)

Mike, Love your even-keeled commentary and calm demeanor. With regard to the Patriots' Welker negotiations: Isn't it possible the Patriots' outlook has changed from the time the placed the franchise tag on him? Since then they have signed valuable free agents on both defense and offense as well as had perhaps better-than-expected success in the draft, so maybe they no longer see him as a must-have-at-any-price component.

Mike Reiss

  (2:29 PM)

Thanks Bill. This is possible. Maybe they weren't expecting to be able to sign some of the players they did. Maybe they decided to distribute the money earmarked for him elsewhere. But my feeling is that they would do the same deal they were offering in 2011. I think they like Welker and want to keep him around ... at the right price.

Matt G. (not Gutierrez) (Portland, ME)

Hi, Mike - what do you think about bringing back the "organized chaos" defensive gameplan wrinkle, with all the focus on versatility on D this offseason?

Mike Reiss

  (2:29 PM)

I could see it, Matt, but for a specific game-plan or certain situations.

rick (ct)

Mike, prediction time - assuming the best, who starts in front 7 besides Wilfork?

Mike Reiss

  (2:31 PM)

Rick, if we're in a base 3-4, let's put Wilfork, Love and Deaderick in there, with Ninkovich/Hightower the OLBs and Spikes/Mayo the ILBs. They can do a lot of different things, and in this scenario, I'll have Jones and Fanene playing big roles in sub, which I'll probably be in the majority of the time anyway.

Mike (los angeles) [via mobile]

Mike, do you have any updates for the amount of participation Gronk and Ras I Dowling are having in OTAs following up on their surgeries and/or injuries last season?

Mike Reiss

  (2:32 PM)

You got it, Mike. Dowling was a full participant. Gronkowski was present for the session but worked off to the side, an indication that he is not quite 100 percent yet.

Neil (South Boston)

As far as contract extensions go, most are focused on Welker. I want to look further down the road to our friends, Gronkowski and Hernandez. In your view, what would it take to lock up each of those guys to another deal?

Mike Reiss

  (2:34 PM)

Neil, if you look at Jermichael Finley's recent two-year extension, I think it was for an average of $7.5m per year. I would think you're looking at north of that for Gronkowski and Hernandez, two superior players. Big bucks territory.

Mike (North Adams)

Hi Mike, I get frustrated when I see and hear comments on how "cheap" the Pats are by not giving in to Welker and others and just pay them. Welker has played well for the Pats..in the past..and has done everything to stay on the field..in the past. I respect his attitude very much.. I believe the $9+ million this yr. reflects the Pats appreciation also.. but he is requesting a contract for future performance, not the past, and I beleive the other teams in the NFL do not value him as highly as the Pats.. don't outbid yourselves, like the Red Sox have done.. what is paid to the one individual player does not indicate the cheapness of the franchise..Is it not true that the Pats are typically at the top of the NFL each year in payroll spent on the entire team? They are not the Bengals.. I want the Pats to win and their formula works.. don't change it now. If a long term deal cannot be worked out this yr., Welker will see his value in free agency and see that probably best for both parties to return at a more modest request next year...No disrespect, but slot receivers are more easily made.. Again, love Welker, but Calvin Johnson and Larry Fitzgerald he is not.

Mike Reiss

  (2:36 PM)

Mike, I think the point about paying for future performance than past performance is exactly how the Patriots operate. As for them being at the top of the NFL in payroll every year, that is not necessarily the case. There have been years where they are. There have been years where they have not. But I wouldn't call them cheap. I'd call them smart and tough negotiators.

Adrian (London)

Hey mike, big hello from here in sunny London.what are you most looking forward to in the OTAs/training camp? your call was on vereen last year, and whilst we have not seem much, he does look an exciting prospect still. is there anyone new this year who you are looking to watching for the first time?

Mike Reiss

  (2:38 PM)

Adrian, the biggest thing I like to watch in OTAs is the QB/WR dynamic. Without pads, that's one thing that is a bit easier to see the value in -- the synergy and chemistry beginning to develop between the two. So today, it was fun to watch how Brandon Lloyd potentially adds something new to this group.

Joe (Waltham)

Hey Mike, these chats are great. I'm excited about Solder starting at LT, but should we be worrying about RT? Seems like Vollmer can never stay healthy. Also, if it's up to you, who's starting day 1 at center, Koppen or Connolly?

Mike Reiss

  (2:40 PM)

Joe, I think the OL is a fair concern. Let's start by acknowledging it's very, very, very early. So much can change between now and the start of training camp. Given the health struggles Vollmer went through last year, I see why that might be on one's mind. Marcus Cannon lined up at that spot today. At center, right now I'd say Dan Connolly is the choice based on the economics (three-year deal with $3.25m signing bonus, compared to Koppen's two-year deal with $350,000 to sign).

Tron (Waltham, MA)

You're amateur scouting hat is being challenged. Greg Bedard thought Dowling looked 'stiff and lacked fluidity.' Who should I believe?!?!?! I want to say you Mike, because the team is gonna need Downling, but Bedard is awfully good...

Mike Reiss

  (2:41 PM)

I saw Dowling run stride for stride with Lloyd. That was good enough for me. Lloyd can move.

Matt (Elon NC)

Mike: There's been a lot of talk and questions about Vereen's performance in practice. But how was Ridley, the other 2nd-year RB?

Mike Reiss

  (2:43 PM)

Matt, I couldn't read too much into Ridley. Tough to tell in these settings sometimes. So I'll baseline it; the fact he's out there and getting this work is very good for him. Remember, he didn't have the benefit of an offseason last year.

Ryan (Brunswick, Maine)

Are they going to bring back Kevin Faulk this season or will he retire?

Mike Reiss

  (2:43 PM)

Ryan, they haven't issued Kevin Faulk's No. 33, so one would think there is still a chance. But my feeling is that if all the backs stay healthy, there won't be a spot for Faulk on the 2012 roster.

ron long 1957 (ny)

mike if mccourty and dowling play to there potential could either or both be shut down db's

Mike Reiss

  (2:44 PM)

With Arrington in the slot, that's not a bad 1-2-3 combo, assuming McCourty can return to 2010 form.

Steve (San Diego)

Hey Mike,It seem like our LB corps really struggles in pass coverage. Can you tell me what the Pats are doing to improve this area and if Hightower is any upgrade over Mayo and Spikes in coverage?

Mike Reiss

  (2:44 PM)

Steve, I'll be honest, I haven't seen enough of Hightower to have an informed opinion. Training camp will be easier to tell.

@MDMorrison82 (twitter-ville)

Hey Mike, How's team Reiss's second round draft pick working out? How's the team handling the cover 2?

Mike Reiss

  (2:45 PM)

Ha. Good stuff. Going from 1 to 2 is as hard as I thought it was going to be!

Eric (East Boston)

I feel like other than Tavon Wilson the team hasn't addressed a huge need at the safety position. Does McCourty stay at safety? Possibly another corner moves over? I know it's way too early to say anything definite but what is your projection for the safety position?

Mike Reiss

  (2:46 PM)

Eric, I think McCourty stays at CB. They had Steve Gregory back there today, paired with Patrick Chung. Tavon Wilson and Josh Barrett worked behind them. Is that good enough? Fair question and something we'll watch closely in camp. McCourty can still play there, but I'm not sure that's the solution, either.

Matt (Elon NC)

Mike: Ex-Pats LB Don Davis spoke at my high school's sports award banquet a few years back, and I was wondering: Do you know if he is still with the team in any capacity? I know he was on the coaching staff at one point and was also team chaplain.

Mike Reiss

  (2:47 PM)

Matt, Don Davis has moved on. Great guy.

Jeremy (NoLA)

Hey Mike, ever thought of having some kind of charity raffle or contest where the winner gets to spend the day with you covering the Pats? I bet aspiring journalists would love it.

Mike Reiss

  (2:48 PM)

Jeremy, that is a great idea, and I have a few ideas that I am batting around. It sort of ties in to nearing the 50k mark for followers on Twitter. Stay tuned over the next month or so.

Dan (Leominster)

Mike, Odds of joint practices with Saints? Eagles?

Mike Reiss

  (2:49 PM)

Dan, I would think there's a fairly good chance there, based on the last two years.

Stuart (Brooklyn, NY)

Hey Mike. Great coverage. I'm a huge Giants fan here. What is it about the Giants that the Pats can't seem to figure out? They're 0-2 in SBs and 0-2 last year. Go G-Men!

Mike Reiss

  (2:50 PM)

Stuart, I'd say tough defense, with the ability to get to Brady and disrupt the rhythm of the passing game with just four rushers. That is one thing that stands out. Also, Eli Manning is pretty good.

Jim Keddy (Kennebunk, Maine)

Chad Ochocinco had difficulties on a couple of plays.How much more time will he be given to catch on?

Mike Reiss

  (2:52 PM)

Jim, I didn't see that from Ochocinco in this practice. We saw those struggles last year, for sure. I think he has an uphill climb ahead of him for a roster spot, regardless of what happened today.

Dan (Leominster)

Mike, Who's Welker's agent? Doesn't sound like Kraft is a big fan of his!!

Mike Reiss

  (2:52 PM)

Dan, the Patriots have more players with that agent than any on the roster. In this case, it's just a disagreement on the player's worth, nothing personal.

Benjamin (Norfolk, MA)

Hi Mike, great work during the offseason. The AFC isn't as strong as it used to be, but I don't think the Pats can afford another 31st ranked defense and expect to win a championship. With the players BB drafted, I think he feels the same way. TB is a great QB, but it's tough to win when your defense can't get off the field consistantly

Mike Reiss

  (2:52 PM)

I'd agree with that, Benjamin.

Matt G. (not Gutierrez) (Portland, ME)

Hi, Mike - with regards to the 2015 Patriots... I assume that most of the same key pieces will be intact in three years, making them still a great team to root for, no question. BUT it does all start with ownership. Rumors (true or not) are flying today about the Steinbrenner family selling the Yankees, which, for Pats fans raises the question of the Krafts. Do you have any hunches, as to Robert/Jonathan's sense of their term of ownership? Has Myra's unfortunate passing had any affect, in that regard? Here's hoping not, but sometimes those are the types of events that can re-focus things... Thanks, Mike.

Mike Reiss

  (2:53 PM)

They want to keep it in the family.

T.J. (Melbourne, FL)

Mike, with recents talks with Osi Umenyiora going badly for teh Giants, what do you think of the possibility of us getting in the mix. I mean if you can't beat him, sign him. He could be huge up there with Jone, Wilfork and Co.

Mike Reiss

  (2:53 PM)

T.J., I'd be surprised if that happened. Just think they want to turn it over to the young guys.

Bill (NYC)

Mike, what do you make of this NFLPA lawsuit and the fact the players union gave up their right to sue the NFL? I think its just another example of how badly DeMaurice Smith got destroyed by Roger Goddell's team.

Mike Reiss

  (2:54 PM)

Bill, I'm glad I don't have to cover it too closely! I'll stick to the Patriots, the Xs and Os, and all that stuff -- happily.

Matt (Elon NC)

Mike: Any chance that we see any of our quarterbacks-turned-receivers (Edelman, Ebert, Roark) take snaps at camp or in the preseason?

Mike Reiss

  (2:54 PM)

Wouldn't expect to see it at QB, unless it was a specific package, Matt. You don't want to take Tom Brady off the field.

David (North Attleboro,Ma)

Mike,We have been heard that Markell Carter has gotten noticeably bigger during the off season . Is that true?

Mike Reiss

  (2:55 PM)

It is true, David. I think the key for Markell Carter is finding the weight he feels most comfortable at. He might discover 275 is a bit much for him. We'll see.

Jesse (Cape Cod)

So with all these WR's did it look like Chad Ochocinco (Johnson?) had better knowledge of the playbook at OTA's today or is it a long shot for him to make the team?

Mike Reiss

  (2:55 PM)

Jesse, it looked to me like he's going to have a tough time breaking through, and that's more based on what I saw from other receivers than what I saw from him.

Craig (Washington, DC)

Hey Mike, long time reader. Keep up the good work. I'm curious whether you have any up-to-date info on the key Patriots who suffered injuries last season which prevented them from making a big mark. First thoughts are Ras I, Vereen, Vollmer, Carter, Mankins.. missing anyone big? If Ras I can stay healthy, I expect him to have a strong showing this season. Who would you pick as your top choices of players to make an impact this coming season, either assuming they will be good to go, or based on reports of their progress up to this point?

Mike Reiss

  (2:56 PM)

Craig, Dowling was practicing today, he's back. Vereen, too. No Vollmer, Andre Carter or Mankins. Dowling and Vereen, if healthy, could add a lot to this team.

Nemanja (Vranje,Serbia)

Mike, what's going on with Ras I-Dowling? Assuming he is healthy, i see him as a starter at CB position.

Mike Reiss

  (2:58 PM)

He was out there today. That's a good sign for him in his recovery.

Ramin (San Marcos, TX) [via mobile]

Hey mike I'm up in Springfield visiting family, and yesterday I walked around downtown Amherst and got ice cream from Bart's. I loved the atmosphere and easily saw why you chose UMASS. I wanted to know if OTA's are open to spectators to come watch. If they are I'll be there tomorrow.

Mike Reiss

  (2:58 PM)

My time at UMass was some of the greatest years of my life. I'm glad you got to walk through campus, Ramin. OTAs are not open to the public.

Mike Reiss

  (2:59 PM)

Let's end it in 5...

Chris (Santa Monica) [via mobile]

Mike, like what you said the other day about Moss in 2007. That play against the Giants in the regular season finale (break receiving TD record, passing TD record, and put the Pats up in the game to go 16-0) also gives me chills. Will be played in a few years at Moss HOF induction ceremony. Thanks.

Mike Reiss

  (3:00 PM)

Great moment, Chris.

Jeff (work)

Realisticly how long could Tom Brady play for. Do you see him as more of a Steve Young career whos was cut short by concussions or Brett Farve who played until he was carted off the feild. I feel if the O line can protect him it could be the latter. If it is I hope it's all with the patriots if not do we trade him when the time comes to his home town team 49ers for a couple of 1st rounders?

Mike Reiss

  (3:00 PM)

Jeff, I think another 5 years is realistic.

Mike (Portland, OR)

Hi Mike, Have you read about the hysteria in NYC about Tebow throwing two picks in Jets' OTAs yesterday? How ugly could this scenario get if Sanchez plays badly early in the season, and how much of a distraction will it cause to the Jets?

Mike Reiss

  (3:01 PM)

Mike, it could be a big distraction. I just think all this OTA stuff, while terrific to cover and talk about, needs to be kept in the proper context. It's May!

Greg (Salem, NH)

Mike, watching the tape of our defensive players from the draft I get the idea that Chandler Jones is a little raw coming into the league (he has great length, height and size but seems to need to add a little weight). Do you see Hightower being more effective Week 1? Also, why did no one talk about Jake Bequette?! He is so fast off the line and has great closing speed I think he will be a more effective pass rusher than any of them. Thoughts?

Mike Reiss

  (3:03 PM)

I could see that being the way it unfolds, Greg, but I think it's best to wait until training camp to have the best feel for it. On Bequette, some teams felt he was a little over-drafted. Doesn't mean it's a bad pick for the Patriots. Those teams just felt he was a little stiff.

Mike (Portland, OR)

Hi Mike, How's the recent family roster expansion doing? Are you going to start rambling incoherently due to lack of sleep soon?

Mike Reiss

  (3:03 PM)

I called someone I know by the wrong name today :)

Mike (Portland, OR)

Hi Mike, How much significance would you put on the Pats bringing in three big OL for workouts this week? Does that mean Vollmer won't be ready to go when TC starts? Have you heard anything about his status?

Mike Reiss

  (3:03 PM)

Mike, I think it's something to keep an eye on. Still early, but there look like some moving parts/uncertainty up front right now.

Matt (Watertown, MA)

Mike, just wanted to get your thoughts on the running backs. Do you think Shane Vereen is a guy the team has high hopes for, and do you think he'll make an impact this season?

Mike Reiss

  (3:04 PM)

Matt, I do think they have high hopes for Vereen. The key for him is staying healthy. If he's healthy, I believe he helps this team.

Bill L. (Fort Collins, CO)

Hey Mike! Every year lately at least one undrafted free agent not only makes the team, but also makes an impact. Based on position needs and current UDFA's, who do you think has the best chance to make the team (I know it's early, but just looking for your best guess) Thanks Mike!

Mike Reiss

  (3:05 PM)

I'd say keep an eye on Jeremiah Warren, the OL from South Florida. The Patriots gave him $28,000 in signing bonus/guaranteed salary, which was the highest total of any rookie free agent. He lined up at RG today and I think given some of the potential questions on the OL, he could be a guy to watch.

PatsFanBrian (San Mateo, CA)

Some have brought up the point that the wide receiver competition may help Hoyer and Mallett look good for trade purposes. If we are looking for secondary benefits (ones not related to fielding a great set of WR during the season), I see it paying off more in practice in giving the secondary a lot of talent to account for pushing them to a higher level of play. Thoughts?

Mike Reiss

  (3:06 PM)

I'd agree with that, PatsFanBrian. One of the team's CBs said that himself today.

jblackburner (ATL)

Mike, what kind of work do Mallett and Hoyer get at OTAs? Does the first team practice together, second team, etc. or are they all mixed up at different times?

Mike Reiss

  (3:07 PM)

They mixed it up a bit. Don't want to overtax any arm at this point.

Danien (Maryland)

Hey Mike,I know its still early, but I'd like to get your take on who makes the final roster at WR. Any surprise tryouts we may not be expecting?

Mike Reiss

  (3:08 PM)

I'll go with Welker and Lloyd as the locks, then Gaffney/Branch/Edelman/Slater rounding it out. That makes Stallworth, Ochocinco and Gonzalez the tough cuts.

Sam Gash (Boston)

Hey Mike, With all the fullbacks on the roster, how do you view the role of the fullback this season? Do they have different skill sets, such as pass catching or providing better pass protection? Who do you think makes the final cut?

Mike Reiss

  (3:09 PM)

Just going to need to see more than we saw today, Sam, to have a better feel for it. I'd guess that Spencer Larsen has the upper hand on Tony Fiammetta -- simply based on financial investment -- but I didn't get to see enough of them today to really have a good feel for it.

Ryan (Nj transit)

Ill be that guy: how does Brady look?

Mike Reiss

  (3:09 PM)

Leader. In command. As you would expect.

Matt (Elon NC)

Any idea how Jeff Tarpinian is doing health-wise? I remember not much was said about his head injury last year that put him on IR.

Mike Reiss

  (3:09 PM)

He was back out there today.

Oleg (Manhattan)

Hi Mike, Does Josh McDaniels look and sound any different to you then he did a few years ago, before he left. He was very young back then and I am just curious if he looks/sounds more mature and if that maturity helps him at all and impacts the way he coaches now.

Mike Reiss

  (3:11 PM)

Oleg, sounded like the same passionate, detailed, vocal coach to me. When we talked to him a few weeks ago, he mentioned that he's obviously learned a lot from his last three years away.

Jeff (Middlebury)

What inspired the change in your Twitter profile picture, Mike?

Mike Reiss

  (3:12 PM)

Time to shake it up, Jeff. Not sure what took me so long. Hoping for some more changes ahead.

D.L. (Wayland)

Mike am I wrong or does Shane Vareen have GREAT hands. I wouldn't be surprised to see him line up anywhere. Your thoughts?

Mike Reiss

  (3:12 PM)

I haven't seen those myself during his time with the Patriots, but that's in part to him not being on the field as much. He caught the ball pretty well at Cal, though.

Dave (Charlotte)

Mike!!!!!!!! How could you post that!! Super Bowl wounds still haven't healed

Mike Reiss

  (3:12 PM)

Security breach!

Dylan (SLC, UT)

What/who were you most impressed with today? What/who were you least impressed with?

Mike Reiss

  (3:13 PM)

Dylan, I didn't really look at it from that perspective. I thought it was fun to watch Brandon Lloyd and what he might bring to this offense.

Chris Fiegler (Latham,NY)

How do you think that the New England Patriots will do in 2012?

Mike Reiss

  (3:14 PM)

Let's end on this one, Chris. In a ridiculously early projection back in April, I said 13-3. I'll stick with it.

Mike Reiss

  (3:16 PM)

Thanks to everyone for chatting. Hope everyone has a great day. Next week, I won't be in position to chat on Thursday, taking care of some personal things. It's possible that could extend to the next week as well. I'll update the status on our Patriots blog on ESPNBoston.com. As always, thanks for your participation and we'll catch up again in a few weeks.