Quick-hit thoughts around the NFL and with the Patriots:
1. Most signs are pointing to this week being the time that the NFL unveils the full schedule for the 2010 season. While all opponents have been determined, the schedule release answers the question of when games are played, which is extremely important with short weeks, bye weeks, and consecutive road trips.
2. I might be badly misreading the situation, but I’ll be surprised if Jason Taylor signs with the Jets. Last year, he said playing for them would be very tough to do because of his dislike for them. What’s different this year?
3. The Jets’ intense interest in Taylor speaks volumes for how they truly view 2008 first-round draft choice Vernon Gholston. At the NFL combine, Jets coach Rex Ryan said: “I think this young man deserves a better chance than we are giving him.” Looks like he’s changed his mind.
4. With the NFL seemingly intent on catering more to fans and creating more excitement – which seems to me to be the main reason for the modified overtime change in the playoffs – here is a suggestion to consider: Allow compensatory draft choices to be traded.
5. I remember late Boston Globe reporter Will McDonough writing that the Patriots would have drafted Albert Haynesworth in 2002 if he was available when they picked. The thought came to mind when reading conflicting reports on whether the Redskins are indeed shopping Haynesworth in a trade.
6. Tom Brady has talked about how fortunate he feels to have played under one head coach and one offensive system. On the flip side, I feel like Jason Campbell is a quarterback who was victimized by too many changes around him in Washington.
7. For those who appreciate longevity and consistency, how about a tip of the helmet to former Cowboys left tackle Flozell Adams? Adams, who was released last week, started every game in 10 of his 12 seasons with the team.
8. Rick Gosselin of the Dallas Morning News starts his position series for the NFL draft today. Gosselin’s work is recommended reading, especially on the draft.
9. Last year at this time, the Steelers were the defending champs. This year, they’re dealing with major off-field headaches with Ben Roethlisberger and now reports that Santonio Holmes could be suspended for four games. Another reminder of how quickly things can change in the NFL.
10. Looking at the history of the No. 22 spot in the draft over the last six years, two teams have traded for the pick to select who they hoped would be their quarterback of the future (J.P. Losman in 2004; Brady Quinn in 2007). Makes one wonder: Might the Patriots be getting calls for Jimmy Clausen, Colt McCoy or Tim Tebow? That's often the time quarterback-seeking teams looking to get back into the first round start making inquiries.