Monday, June 10, 2013

Pats' Spikes shows to minicamp, Fins' Starks will

BY NICK ST. DENIS

The New England Patriots' and Miami Dolphins' respective front-seven gatherings will be a little more crowded this week than last thanks to the impactful term "mandatory."

According to multiple media reports, linebacker Brandon Spikes, who stayed home during the Patriots' voluntary OTAs, was present Monday for the first day of New England's minicamp. (photo: Karen Cardoza, Flickr)

Spikes is in the final year of his 2010 rookie contract and was the only player on his team to sit out of OTAs. The former second-round pick tallied 92 tackles, seven passes defensed, five forced fumbles and a sack in 15 games last season.

A bit south of Foxorough, the Dolphins will reportedly see their notable non-participant in OTAs when the team begins its mandatory minicamp Tuesday. The Miami Herald's Adam Beasley reported Monday that "as promised," defensive lineman Randy Starks will practice with the team this week.

Starks, who is (like most everyone else) looking for a multi-year deal, was slapped with the franchise tag this offseason. The 10-year veteran was good for 27 tackles, 4.5 sacks and four passes defensed last year and has tallied 22 quarterback takedowns in his five years in Miami.

Both defenders are stout cogs on their respective squads, but Spikes' upside and age garners him a better opportunity to eventually land a long-term stay with his or another team beyond 2013. 

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