Donte Stallworth returns to the Patriots on a one year deal per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

This should surely make a lot of Patriots fans very happy, not only the nostalgic ones, but those clamoring to add some deep speed to the roster.

With the addition of Brandon Lloyd, Anthony Gonzalez and now Stallworth it seems clear that the Patriots want to add a new wrinkle to their offense come hell or high water. And as much as I hate to say it they’re absolutely protected if Welker were to hold out (though all signs have pointed to that not happening) or hoodie-forbid get injured.

This does put an even bigger question mark over Chad Ochocinco, though I’m still of the opinion that they should keep him around for camp.

Ultimately you only need one of the three free agent wide receivers to truly emerge and there’s been enough thrown at the wall that one of them should, with the favorite of course being Brandon Lloyd. Additionally the Pats should be in line to have a much better 4-WR package in 2012. As much as the 2-TE offense was tough to stop in 2011, it will no longer have to be their bread and butter, and instead just another tool in the toolbox when it’s needed.

It seems clear that Josh McDaniels is having a big influence in adding multiple receiving threats, and it might be safe to say we should be seeing more spread offense out of the Pats again in 2012.