Patriots Final Cuts Analysis

Most of the moves were what I expected, but there were a few that I didn’t see coming.  Here are a few things that surprised me:

1. Vinny Testaverde – Well, I don’t like Belichick’s thinking here.  I know he wouldn’t provide much to the team (if anything), but he is a veteran prescence, who could help lead a guy like Matt Cassel if something happened to Brady.  I understand the thinking however, because Matt Gutierrez looks like he has some serious potential, but it doesn’t seem very classy for Belichick to cut a guy like Testaverde, who will likely retire now.  Plus, there is still a roster spot open, which could mean there is a guy the Patriots are looking at who is on waivers.

2. Richard Seymour on PUP, David Thomas off.  I was thinking that Richard Seymour would be ready to go for the start of the season, but I guess I was wrong.  He is going to be out for at least 6 weeks.  So this means starting time for Jarvis Green, and increased playing time for Le Kevin Smith.  Also, I thought David Thomas wouldn’t be coming off PUP, and again, I was wrong (poor Marcellus Rivers was praying I was right).

3. Rashad Baker NOT cut.  I figured he would be cut because he barely played for us last year and he has a broken hand.  But a player’s fortune can always change quickly, as Harrison’s suspension has granted Baker at least four weeks with the team.

Now, a little more fun begins.  Will the Patriots make any moves off the waivers wire?  Well, we’ll find out in the next two days, as the Patriots will begin preparation against the Jets.