The Patriots out on Dwight Freeney?

The Patriots had Dwight Freeney and John Abraham in for a visit just about a week ago today. Unfortunately, the visits didn't result in any signings and both moved on to meet with the Denver Broncos today. Neither of those visits ended in any commitments either though as the market for veteran DEs continues to be quiet.

So why no deals in Denver? It's likely the Broncos were just doing their due diligence in case they lose pass rusher Elvis Dumervil. Dumvervil, of course, was released by Denver after his agent failed to fax his restructured contract in on time. So, it would seem that Freeney and Abraham are an insurance policy for Denver.

Since the Patriots had both in for a visit, they were assumed to be in play for both, but that's not the case anymore. A new report leaves the Patriots off the list of suitors for Dwight Freeney.

Pro Football Talk's Mike Florio:

Per a league source with knowledge of the situation, the Steelers, Ravens, and Broncos remain in play for both players. Currently, Dumervil’s decision is expected to come down to Baltimore and Denver. Whichever of that duo doesn’t get Dumervil becomes likely to land Freeney, with the Steelers as the possible alternative destination.

Notice no Patriots being mentioned there? I do find it a little curious that the Steelers have replaced the Patriots as a suitor. I still feel that Freeney has a lot left to offer a 4-3 team.

That also raises the likelihood that the Patriots will land John Abraham, if they indeed get any of the three defensive ends in question. I'm not sure why they haven't moved yet, but once Dumervil chooses a destination the other dominoes will likely fall into place.

One thing to note is that all of the teams reportedly in on these defensive ends are on the Patriots schedule this year (Atlanta, Pittsburgh, Baltimore, Denver). So if the Pats decide not to sign a player and he ends up being a hit, they'll literally have to face their mistake.