Experts predicted that when the salary cap negotiations began there would be veteran players being let go, and they were right. One of the first biggest moves was by the New England Patriots. They have let go of Willie McGinest, their twelve year defensive lineman. The move was somewhat surprising since McGinest is the all-time post season sack leader, but teams must do what they must do.

McGinest had a cap figure of more than $7 million which was apparently too much for the Patriots to handle. With the NFL owners voting for the new cap of $102 million, they needed to cut loose some baggage. There are more cuts being expected, with more and more veterans left without homes in the NFL. McGinest have felt a little strange for McGinest, since he has been with New England for his entire career, and was one of their finest players of all time.

Chances are however that if McGinest still wants to play, he will have no problem finding a new place to belong. There are teams out there jumping for joy at the fact that he is a free man. If McGinest can find a place to be, the Patriots are going to wish they could have found room in that budget for this star player.

Meanwhile, the Patriots have signed Atrell Hawkins for their defensive back position. He was originally drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals and played with them for six seasons. Being in the NFL since 1998, he may be able to offer a great maturity and excellent talent for the Patriots. With so many stars on their team however, it wont matter if he does or not. But, Hawkins will likely give it his all for each and every game, making things a little easier on the New England team.