The date changes every year, but one of my favorite days on the calendar is when the Patriots sign Troy Brown to a one-year contract. I get at least one more active year out of my Brown #80 jersey.

Brown wasn't considered a lock to make the team last year, so he's definitely no sure thing this season. The Herald speculates that Brown, Reche Caldwell, Jabar Gaffney, and Kelley Washington are battling for 2-3 spots. I'm going to put Caldwell on the team. Sure, he dropped two big passes in the AFC Championship, but he also put up 621 yards and five scores in his last eleven games last year. He's a good player and it wouldn't shock me if he steals the starting job from Donte' Stallworth.

That leaves Brown, Gaffney, and Washington fighting for 1-2 spots. Brown's versatility on special teams and defense gives him an advantage. I can't imagine Washington covering the slot. That said, Brown will probably go from slow to glacial after surgery at his age. My guess is that Belichick finds a spot for him and Gaffney is sent packing, with Washington on the bubble.

Does this have much fantasy impact? Probably not for a while - we're talking about fifth receivers here. Just keep Brown in mind for a Week 17 pickup when Belichick starts drawing up Testaverde-to-Brown touchdowns.