Two Free Agent Signings and Thoughts on the Few Remaining Spots

1. Defensive Lineman Re-Signed: Gerard Warren
It was reported yesterday that the Patriots re-signed defensive lineman Gerard Warren. Warren has been a rotational player that has provided solid depth on the line. He is a 10 year veteran who will likely have a spot on the final 53 man roster. He saw more playing time in 2010, when he was a defensive end in the base 3-4 defense; versus last year where he played as a tackle in sub packages. This signing adds depth to a defensive line that did not get addressed during the draft.

2. Undrafted Rookie Free Agent Signed: WR Matt Roark, Kentucky
Kentucky's twitter account announced that Matt Roark, a wide receiver, has signed with the Patriots. Roark is a huge wide receiver with decent speed for his size. He is 6'5", 225 lbs with a 4.72 40 time. For comparison,  Rob Gronkowski is 6'6" with a 4.70 40 time, but he weighs 260 lbs; and Aaron Hernandez is 6'3", 245 lbs with a 4.65 40 time.  Roark has some flexibility as he was also used as a wildcat quarterback and had decent production running the ball as well. This is the 12th wide receiver on the current roster, if you include Welker.

3. Thoughts on Remaining Roster Spots:
With these two signings, by my count 87 of the 90 possible roster spots are filled. With the three remaining spots, I think the defensive line, running back, and safety depth should all be filled.  Not counting outside linebacker type defensive ends, like Chandler Jones and Trevor Scott, there are 9 defensive lineman on the current roster. Of those 9, I only see four of them as locks. Vince Wilfork, Jonathan Fanene, Kyle Love, and Brandon Deaderick. I'll add Gerard Warren as a solid fifth option. For a 3-4 defense, there should be at least 6 big bodied lineman. Marcus Forston and Marcus Harrison are not likely to make the team, and will probably end up on the practice squad. Myron Pryor shows potential but cannot stay healthy. Rob Brace is a second round disappointment who is now on the bubble. Adding one more possibility here would help the team. As for safety, Yeremiah Bell, the former Dolphin, has already had contact with the Patriots and I think he would make sense, if the Patriots don't re-sign James Ihedigbo. Although it is reasonable for the Patriots to start with three running backs and a fullback once the season starts, I think they should add competition to running back as it is distinctly lacking any. They have brought in several backs for workouts, including Tim Hightower, Ryan Grant, and Joseph Addai. Kevin Faulk is also an option here. He is an all-time great Patriot and a lock for the Patriots HOF, but I personally think after 13 NFL seasons it is time for him to retire. Furthermore, unless the Patriots already have an idea of who will be returning kicks, a returner could also be a good pick up.