Juggling Act

It's not everyday a buddy from out of state comes up to visit. But it's amazing how much can happen when you turn your back for just a moment.

I was counting on the Patriots to make a move or two. Assembling a practice squad was a no-brainer. S Mark Dillard, RB BenJarvis Green-Ellis, LB Vince Redd, CB Mike Richardson, and DB Antwain Spann get to play scout team and possibly move up to the active roster somewhere down the line (or get signed to the active roster by another team).

I also anticipated the signing of a free agent or two to fortify the roster at the weaker areas. I just didn't know it would happen so soon or expect the casualties. OT Mark LeVoir and TE Jason Pociask were claimed off of waivers. To make room for them, WR Chad Jackson and S John Lynch were released.

I thought Jackson was in the clear since he wasn't cut Saturday. He picked up his play in the last two games of the preseason, catching a touchdown in each game. But the mistakes were too much. He apparently ran the wrong route adjustment in game one of the preseason and tripped over his feet on a endzone fade route in game four. Both errors resulted in interceptions. The coaches had enough.

I can understand if Jackson is stunned, but keep your head up. Talented players always get numerous chances. A good place for Chad would be Cincinnati as they wait for T.J. Houshmandzadeh to get healthy and Chris Henry to return from a four-game suspension.

There's a little *wink, wink* in regards to the Lynch move. How often are there quotes from the head coach and the player cut about the move? Both Bill Belichick and Lynch were cryptic about it. Lynch said, "I have no regrets about my time thus far with the Patriots." Belichick added, "As has been the case in other situations, I would not rule out anything down the road." Huh? Those statements are begging to be read between the lines.

While Belichick always leaves the door open for veteran players, reuniting with Lynch is expected with that kind of talk. "...thus far"? "...down the road"? Yeah, you know it's gonna happen. Don't even bother emptying your locker Lynch. it's just a matter of time.

With only four corners on the roster, I had a strong belief that a free agent would be signed. It turned out to be CB Deltha O'Neal from Cincinnati. The eight-year veteran comes to Foxborough with two Pro Bowl appearances and a reputation as a gambler with good results: 31 interceptions, almost four a year. Sounds like the Asante Samuel-type before there was Asante Samuel.

To make room for O'Neal, TE Stephen Spach was released. But the Patriots are far from done. They've hosted G Evan Mathis and punters Adam Crossett and Waylan Prather for tryouts Monday. The best news was Russ Hochstein returning to practice. The offensive line needs him for continuity.