FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Quick-hit thoughts and notes around the New England Patriots and NFL:
1. The Patriots have had success in recent years drafting players from Bret Bielema’s teams, and entering one of the most important drafts in Bill Belichick’s tenure, the former Wisconsin and Arkansas head coach continues to work closely with the team this spring.
After having been spotted at the combine with the Patriots’ contingent, and also wearing New England gear at USC’s pro day, Bielema reported to work over the past week at Gillette Stadium. His exact role hasn’t been announced by Belichick, but it seems obvious that it starts with consulting on scouting and the draft this spring, and here are a few reasons why that is notable:
The Patriots have nailed three picks from Bielema’s programs: running back James White (Wisconsin, 2014), defensive end Trey Flowers (Arkansas, 2015) and defensive end Deatrich Wise Jr.