An updated look at Patriots players scheduled for unrestricted free agency with a quick-hit thought:
Tully Banta-Cain -- Outside linebacker/nickel rusher expressed optimism about his return to Tom Curran of Comcast SportsNet last week.
Leigh Bodden -- Patriots would like him back, but in a weak free-agent cornerback crop Bodden figures to test the market in hopes of the one big payday he's targeted since entering the league as a rookie free agent out of Duquesne.
Derrick Burgess -- Veteran nickel rusher would not seem to be a top priority unless things fell apart with Banta-Cain.
Kevin Faulk -- Veteran running back previously said he couldn't imagine playing elsewhere. One possible wrinkle would be if he wants to put himself on the market to make sure he isn't selling himself short financially.
Jarvis Green -- Defensive end is headed to the open market. It looks like both sides will move on.
Chris Hanson -- Veteran punter is unsure of the Patriots' interest in retaining him. With few options in unrestricted free agency and a draft class that might have only one punter worthy of consideration, it wouldn't be a surprise if he's back.
Stephen Neal -- Agent Neil Cornrich used a Wednesday media blast to let teams know Neal isn't retiring and is planning to test the market. That means the Patriots will face competition to retain him, likely from teams with coaches who have Patriots ties.
Benjamin Watson -- Both sides seem ready to move on. At this point, it would be a surprise if the tight end returns for a seventh season.
Vince Wilfork -- The most likely scenario at this point is that the defensive lineman will be assigned the franchise tag by Feb. 25 and the sides will keep working toward an extension.