Deep Thoughts

Earlier this week the Patriots further streamlined the linebacking corps by releasing rookie free agent ILB Antonio Appleby. Released before the University of Virginia product was OLB Angelo Craig.

That leaves Eric Alexander, Tedy Bruschi, Tully Banta-Cain, Vinny Ciurciu, Shawn Crable, Gary Guyton, Jerod Mayo, Pierre Woods, Vince Redd, Paris Lenon, and Adalius Thomas as the roster LBs (rookie Tyrone McKenzie is on injured reserve for the year).

In the short term, I sense one more veteran addition before the season starts. But I believe New England is thinking further than that.

There are two things on my mind. First off it’s those two 2010 second round picks they traded for during the NFL Draft. If I’m right, that gives N.E. three second round picks along with their first rounder. With all those early picks in stock, they have at their disposal the tools needed to trade up in the draft if need be.

I still look at the OLB situation as questionable since, as of right now, there isn’t a starter opposite Thomas. Whether one of the young guys steps in, the Pats bring in a veteran to man the position, or they fill the hole based by using the ‘backers based on situations, nothing seems definite as of right now. Performance in 2009 will determine whether the problem as been solved or if New England must address a better long term solution.

A little voice inside my head makes me believe the Patriots have already targeted a player for next year. Maybe he’s a top-10 pick in the draft. Or maybe there’s a restricted free agent they will try to pry away from another team.

While reading Pro Football Weekly, there was an update for San Diego that said they are annoyed by Shawn Merriman’s distractions. His outside interests costs him time that could be spent preparing for the 2010 season. That’s why the Chargers traded up to draft DE Larry English. He will replace Merriman when his contract expires and the man known as “Lights Out” can sign with any team.

San Diego isn’t stupid, though. Maybe they slap a franchise tag on Merriman and dangle him to the highest bidder in a trade. It’s very possible.

Few, if any, teams would give up two first round picks. But what about a first rounder and a couple of second round selections? That’s hard to pass up, even if it isn’t equal value. The pay would be close enough to the price tag.

This is all wild speculation by me as of right now. I’m more concerned about the here and now. But it wouldn’t surprise me if the Patriots have long term thoughts for next year, or even beyond.