Early Presents

The Patriots have been busy this month delivering early presents to us, the fans. The team has signed free agents Adalius Thomas, Sammy Morris, and Kyle Brady. Wes Welker is reportedly on his way to Gillette Stadium for a visit with team officials. With the free agency period less than a week old, the Patriots have addressed pressing needs at linebacker, running back, wide receiver, and found a replacement at tight end for the soon to be departed Daniel Graham.

Color me surprised. I have speculated about the opportunity for the Patriots to sign Thomas for at least of couple of months, yet I never truly expected the team to do so. I was not entirely convinced that the Baltimore Ravens would allow Thomas to test the free agent market without at least tendering him an offer, which would require compensation from the team that signed him. I also expected that the Patriots would take a slower approach to signing free agents. They have historically waited to sign versatile role players rather than making a large splash by signing the top available talent.

I am thrilled by the potential for Thomas to spend time at inside linebacker, outside linebacker, safety, nickel cornerback, or even defensive end. He's certainly a big boy, weighing a solid 270 pounds. He's got plenty of speed, though. He should be a great addition to the team.

In signing Morris and Brady the Patriots have essentially replaced the just released Corey Dillon and unrestricted free agent Daniel Graham, respectively. That's not to say that Morris and Brady are the same caliber of player as either Dillon or Graham. Morris provides depth at running back and should allow the team more flexibility in upcoming draft. The team will not have to identify a running back to immediately step into a prominent role. Brady is great blocker and will probably be used similarly to the way Graham was.

Welker is another versatile player who will be an upgrade to the team. He's approaching his peak years having spent only three years in the league. Veteran receivers almost always have a greater impact on teams than rookie wide receivers. Ron Borges suggested in the Globe that the Patriots pursue Seattle's Darrell Jackson. Jackson would be a great pickup for a team very weak at wide receiver.

After a frustrating couple of off-seasons, the Pats appear to be giving the fans what they want. I, for one, am thrilled with the new gifts.