It Is What It Is » Notes from the Patriots Tuesday minicamp practice

Here’s notes of interest from Chris Price:

The only three players who were not spotted on the field for the duration of the session were tight end Daniel Fells, offensive lineman Brian Waters and defensive lineman Myron Pryor. Several players appeared limited, as tight end Rob Gronkowski, offensive linemen Sebastian Vollmer and Logan Mankins and linebackers Brandon Spikes and Tracy White were among those who spent plenty of time working out off to the side.

In 11 on 11’s on the defensive side of the ball, the Patriots rolled out a starting defensive front of Trevor Scott, Fanene, Vince Wilfork and Rob Ninkovich.

As far as the defensive front I think this is a pretty good preview of what we’re likely to expect in the new base nickel. Gone are the days of having a left defensive end who is solely a run stopper. Ninkovich is tough, but he can get after the passer a bit as well. Fanene is a good combo guy as well, and with Wilfork you have the ability to put a severe roadblock in the oppositions favorite running lanes. Trevor Scott continues to be one to the players I think will be an excellent addition in a role similar to what Andre Carter played last year. Long term they’ll want to see what Chandler Jones can do at RDE.