FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Quick-hit thoughts and notes around the New England Patriots and NFL:
1a. Because the Patriots are usually drafting late in the first round, they often miss the chance to bring aboard highly touted prospects with elite traits, so they have to explore other avenues to do so. Their agreement Saturday to acquire defensive tackle Danny Shelton from the Browns is the latest example, as it follows last year’s deal for receiver Brandin Cooks and the big-bucks, free-agent signing of cornerback Stephon Gilmore.
All three players were off the board early in their respective drafts, well ahead of where the Patriots were picking -- Shelton was the No.