The New England Patriots announced the release of 3 players. Most notably second year Defensive End Markell Carter, and two undrafted rookies- tight end Nick Melillo, and offensive lineman Jon Opperud. The release of Markell Carter was the most surprising of the bunch. Carter only 22, was a practice squad player the entirety of last season after being drafted in the 6th round by the Pats. Typically players don’t spend an entire season on the practice squad and are either called up to the roster or leave for another team. The team showed Carter a sign of good faith by giving him a raise of more than 3 times a normal practice squad player would make. Markell has put on 25lbs since his combine weigh in at 255lbs. He was currently at 275lbs and was hopeful to carve a role for himself on the defense but that was cut short this afternoon despite hopes. With the release of one Carter, there has been great speculation another Carter signing might be in the works.
Rumors began circulating yesterday that Defensive End Andre Carter was visiting with the Patriots after a tweet by ESPN Boston’s Mike Reiss. Jeff Howe is also confirming Carters presence at Gillette yesterday according to a source visiting with the medical staff and is indeed ahead of rehab schedule.
The release of Markell Carter would make room to bring Andre Carter back into the fold. Andre despite tearing his left quadriceps late last December had 10 sacks and was one of eight Patriots to make the 2012 Pro Bowl. Carter also tied the Patriots single game sack record at 4-a career best for him against the New York Jets. The Patriots have been in contact with Andre throughout his entire healing process. Andre signed a one year deal with the Patriots in 2011 making him a Free Agent. Many teams placed a red flag on Carter because of his age (33) and his health which is telling as to why he is still on the market. If not for his injury Carter would have likely been the second best pass rusher available in free agency behind Bill’s prize pickup Defensive End, Mario Williams. The Patriots have been playing it smart and are just waiting to get the pass that Andre is indeed healthy and ready to go. I expect the Patriots to close and make a move on him as early as the end of the week if he checks out to be healthy. If healthy Andre could significantly contribute as a starter and could be a mentor to first round draft pick Chandler Jones as well as third round pick Jake Bequette. Earlier this month on Twitter (@MikeOnofrio) I was asking how his rehab has been going and he told me well and that he was just waiting for the call. When I asked him today he remained mum on the situation and did not respond. Take it for what you will-
Rumors began circulating yesterday that Defensive End Andre Carter was visiting with the Patriots after a tweet by ESPN Boston’s Mike Reiss. Jeff Howe is also confirming Carters presence at Gillette yesterday according to a source visiting with the medical staff and is indeed ahead of rehab schedule.
The release of Markell Carter would make room to bring Andre Carter back into the fold. Andre despite tearing his left quadriceps late last December had 10 sacks and was one of eight Patriots to make the 2012 Pro Bowl. Carter also tied the Patriots single game sack record at 4-a career best for him against the New York Jets. The Patriots have been in contact with Andre throughout his entire healing process. Andre signed a one year deal with the Patriots in 2011 making him a Free Agent. Many teams placed a red flag on Carter because of his age (33) and his health which is telling as to why he is still on the market. If not for his injury Carter would have likely been the second best pass rusher available in free agency behind Bill’s prize pickup Defensive End, Mario Williams. The Patriots have been playing it smart and are just waiting to get the pass that Andre is indeed healthy and ready to go. I expect the Patriots to close and make a move on him as early as the end of the week if he checks out to be healthy. If healthy Andre could significantly contribute as a starter and could be a mentor to first round draft pick Chandler Jones as well as third round pick Jake Bequette. Earlier this month on Twitter (@MikeOnofrio) I was asking how his rehab has been going and he told me well and that he was just waiting for the call. When I asked him today he remained mum on the situation and did not respond. Take it for what you will-
The Patriots have also announced the signing of tight end Bo Scaife (30) formerly of the Titans and last season the Bengals.
Interestingly enough Scaife was drafted by the Titans when Flloyd Reese was GM of the team. Reese now serves as the Patriots “Senior Football Advisor” and likely played a role in acquiring him. Two things come to mind when I look at this signing.
Interestingly enough Scaife was drafted by the Titans when Flloyd Reese was GM of the team. Reese now serves as the Patriots “Senior Football Advisor” and likely played a role in acquiring him. Two things come to mind when I look at this signing.
- Patriots thin at tight end position in practice- With Gronkowski out of OTA practices healing from his ankle injury the Patriots are thin at bodies with only Aaron Hernandez, Daniel Fells, and undrafted rookie Brad Herman in the mix. Scaife is a solid well rounded tight end that could boost the depth at the position heading into training camp.
- Is Daniel Fells not grasping what the Patriots are looking for ? Daniel Fells has never been a typical pass catching tight end and is seen as more of a blocker. Scaife could offer more versatility in that respect and is more of a receiving tight end at 6’3 249. Fell’s job might not be so safe as the third tight end on the roster.
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