FOXBORO -- There's a noticeable absence in the corner of the Patriots locker room that through the years has been home to some of its most important defensive players.
It's not far from the real estate where Mike Vrabel, Tedy Bruschi and Willie McGinest once resided. Jerod Mayo, now coaching Patriots linebackers, used to be parked in the same spot. It's right by the door. Players coming in late, or leaving early, would have to consider that they'd be passing by someone who matters -- and that they might get an earful.