Latest news out of the Patriots' camp is Teddy Bruschi may have fractured his wrist. The injury will keep him out at least a week. There is speculation that it's a minor fracture but, nevertheless, it does underscore the Patriots lack of depth in the linebacker position.
Pioli and Belichick have been keeping it cool regarding free agent acquisitions, but there are two real areas of need on the team at linebacker and wide receiver. The starting four linebackers are fine, but there is no depth. This still needs to be addressed. Wide receiver position looks even worse with Troy Brown (aged 35) currently standing as the #2 receiver. Top receiver Deion Branch continues his contract holdout. Patriots need to sign at least two receivers before the season starts. David Patten of the Redskins is an obvious target for them having played for the team for several years. There are also a couple of troubled players in Jerry Porter in Oakland and Ashley Lelie in Denver. Neither appears to be a good fit with the Patriots. One thing is for sure: expect NE to get active throughout the preseason as they are still sitting with $10 mil+ after signing all their rookies to contracts.