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April 29, 2007

Belichick press conference

Bill Belichick just wrapped up draft weekend with his second-day press conference, which of course focused almost exclusively on the acquisition of Randy Moss.

Belichick confirmed that things talked really got rolling last night -- he said 90 percent of the work on the deal was done between midnight and the time the fourth round got underway this morning.

"Mr. Davis (Raiders' owner Al) gave us permission to speak with the player and his representative, and (Moss) came in this morning. We're happy to add him to the roster -- he's a quality, versatile player who can do a lot of different things on the football field."

Though he had been gathering information here and there on Moss for "years," early this morning was the first time Belichick spoke to Moss, and the discussions continued today in between the times when New England was picking players.

Belichick said he has spoken to Moss' former coaches and teammates about him and all expressed respect for the receiver. While his stay here was short and his departure sudden, Doug Gabriel's time with the Patriots wasn't without value, as Belichick said he learned more about Moss from Gabriel (Gabriel said Moss was like a brother to him) than anyone else.

He also learned about Moss from the man himself.

"Randy, in my conversations with him, has been very enthusiastic of becoming a member of the New England Patriots and we're excited to have him become a member of the New England Patriots," Belichick said. "He's showed positive feedback and energy toward us."

And Moss was apparently serious about taking a pay cut to come to New England: reportedly, he will make $3 million this season under his new deal with the Patriots -- he was slated to make $9.75 million under the contract he had with Oakland.

Belichick said Moss' arrival will not impact whether or not Troy Brown returns to New England: "I spoke on that a couple of weeks ago; they have different roles on the team."

Posted by Shalise Manza Young at 6:31 PM | Permalink

Comments

A terrific addition to an already greatly improved receiver corps.

Posted by: murray at April 29, 2007 10:28 PM

Can't believe that the Pats have sunk that low to put Randy Moss on their team. What happens when he doesn't feel like playing for the Pats like he did in Oakland. Understand that the Pats are a much better team with a proven QB. Hope they know what they are doing. Go Pats!!! Looking forward to the 2007 season which is right around the corner.

Posted by: Ann at April 29, 2007 11:24 PM

I can't believe people forget that we are all human, make mistakes and may not grow up in the most nurturing environment before getting thrown into the media crazed culture that is college and professional football.

People need to lighten up, and give this guy a chance to grow in a more structured, disciplined environment.

Hey Murray, go ahead and throw the first stone buddy.

Posted by: Tim at April 30, 2007 12:47 AM

I can't believe people forget that we are all human, make mistakes and may not grow up in the most nuturing environment before getting thrown into the media crazed culture that is college and professional football.

People need to lighten up, and give this guy a chance to grow in a more structured, disciplined environment.

Hey Ann, go ahead and throw the first stone buddy.

Posted by: Tim at April 30, 2007 12:55 AM

A steal for just $3.0m!! Brady & Seymour will not stand for his previous attitude.!! HE WILL CONTRIBUTE IMMENSELY ON THE FIELD IN 2007.

Posted by: dave barchi at April 30, 2007 7:44 AM