It wasn't too long ago when the Patriots hardly signed any Free Agents. Belichick just rode Tom Brady's intelligence as hard as he could, along with his coaching staff that consisted of Charlie Weis (now at Notre Dame) and Romeo Crennel (who's failing at Cleveland).

Despite popular belief, the Patriots never won the Super Bowl with Randy Moss. They never won the Super Bowl with Adalius Thomas.

They rode the system. And then when other teams started finding the weaknesses to the Patriots systems in offense and defense. Belichick went aggressive.

The Patriots weren't exactly a team that had a lot of cap either, but in one off-season they managed to get guys like Adalius Thomas, Wes Welker, Randy Moss, and Junior Seau. I know there are plenty of other names that I'm failing to mention.

It's false hope here, but maybe... MAYBE Thompson will realize now is the time to spend. This is probably the last capped season the NFL will have for a while, and Thompson has to open the checkbook NOW before prices really go up.

We know as well as Thompson which players are pulling their own weight here, and now it's up to Thompson to make improvements, especially with playmaking ability and leadership.

I mean, after all--he brought Charles Woodson here. He TRIED to get Gonzo. Maybe he isn't the Grinch.

Eh. What am I saying? I'm gonna go back to sleep and pretend this season never happened.

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