Just because Vince Wilfork is waiting for management to offer him a better contract doesn’t mean he won’t participate in some Patriots public events, such as the Patriots annual charity golf tournament held over the weekend. Wilfork shot a 132, but the real news was the stumble he took after the 7th hole. He tripped on the cart path and staggered for a few feet, then lunged head-first 30 feet in the air, striking a pregnant woman in the kneecap.
Wilfork has said that he’s looking for a contract that will make him comfortable. I can’t help but wonder if a lifetime pass to Golden Corral would do the trick.
Sports Illustrated’s mock draft is posted, and they have the Patriots taking Wake Forest cornerback Alphonso Smith with the 23rd pick in the 1st round. Smith lacks size at 5′9″ and 190 pounds, but he does have a lot of speed. The question remains whether that speed can make up for the size disadvantage. One thing he does have going for him is that he’s not afraid of contact. He’ll pick up the interceptions when they’re there, but if a wide receiver gets the ball he’s not hesitant to pop him. The Patriots selected 2 cornerbacks in last year’s draft, but they’ll probably be shopping for more.
Despite several setbacks, including multiple infections, Pats quarterback Tom Brady still believes he will return for the 2009 season. I think the greater question needs to be how well will Brady play after he does return. There are no known examples of quarterbacks with knee injuries as severe as Brady’s coming back to any success. Perhaps it’s time to consider franchising Matt Cassel and preparing him to lead the Patriots offense for a second season.
- June 2009 (1)
- January 2009 (2)
