Once again the experts were wrong.
Yesterday all indications were that Leigh Bodden was gone from New England. He was set to sign with the Houston Texans. Rumors swirled about a massive contract that the Texans would offer the highest ranked free agent cornerback on the market.
But last night that rumor was out the window. Reports started coming in around eight o’clock that Bodden was in fact returning to the Patriots. No details of the contract were revealed and Bodden’s agent cautioned that nothing was final, but by nine o’clock there was notice that it would be official Tuesday.
What changed?
How about for starters that Bodden thrives in a Belichick system. The proof is there as he was super productive in Cleveland playing for RAC and then went to the Lions and fell off the map. This past year in the New England he was the best corner on the team and tied for the team lead with five picks. Why on Earth would he want to go to another system in Houston where he runs the risk of falling off the map again?
So the Patriots addressed a gaping hole on their defense by bringing Bodden back. Even if the contract is close to the reported Houston deal of five years $25 million I think it’s worth it. Banta-Cain is worth five by the Pats valuation, Bodden is definitely worth at least that.
The team is rumored to be hosting some TE help in Daniel Fells from St Louis and Alge Crumpler from Tennessee although most of us remember him as a Falcon. I think both guys could find a home here. Fells for the stretching the field stuff that Watson was supposed to provide and Crumpler in that Christian Fauria/Mike Vrabel goal line tight end spot.
The team is still looking for linebacking and wideout help as well. But the Bodden signing is clearly a sign that the team isn’t content with a rebuilding year. Hopefully we hear some more great signings in the days and weeks ahead.
From doom and gloom Monday to a ray of hope Tuesday. That’s your Patriots.
