For most of his years with the Kansas City Chiefs, Brian Waters was not around this time of year. Instead, the storied veteran decided to use his free time and emphasize the “voluntary” part of OTAs while his teammates reported to Arrowhead Stadium. Now that he’s with another team, however, Mike Reiss of ESPN Boston is interested in his Waters’ actions might be taken with a head coach like Bill Belichick.
“Does he insert Waters right back into the starting lineup?” asks Reiss. “Or, to reinforce his message to players on what he feels is most important when building a team, does he stick with those who worked throughout the team’s voluntary offseason program?”
Waters enjoyed a Pro Bowl season in his first year in New England, so it’s clear he’s still a solid performer heading into 2012. The Pats are also hurting along the offensive line with the injuries last season to both their starting and back-up center and offseason issues with Logan Mankins means the team is bringing in uninspiring veteran free agents like Robert Gallery. Waters certainly has some leverage there.
However, Belichick is definitely a no-nonsense guy and will do what he feels is necessary despite any perceived need. Reiss is right to be interested if there’s any conflict here.