I find it odd that Koppen would get a legit 2-year contract – at solid money – after getting little interest on the free agent market. I mean, who were the Patriots bidding against? The Titans didn’t really pursue Koppen after his visit and certainly weren’t going to give him much money. That’s why I think it’s likely a 1-year contract. Unless Tom Brady mandated that as part of his restructure the Patriots bring Koppen back at a decent wage.

Earlier this offseason, the Patriots gave Dan Connolly a 3-year, $10-million contract with $3.25 million as a signing bonus. That was solid starter’s money, but not enough for the Patriots to feel bad about sending him to the bench if they have to.

I think the Koppen signing makes it a “best five” situation on the line. If Koppen beats out Connolly, he beats him out. And the Patriots won’t really care. But they think Connolly will win the job.