FOXBORO -- The Patriots spend an inordinate amount of time focused on the kicking game -- technique, strategy, personnel -- but even they seem to be in a state of special-teams flux as their season-opener with the Chiefs approaches.
They lost linebacker and key special-teamer Shea McClellin to injured reserve earlier this week. Perhaps in an effort to replace him, they traded for Bengals linebacker and special-teamer Marquis Flowers. The Patriots released special-teamer Geneo Grissom (then re-signed him to the practice squad), but they also dealt for Seahawks defensive end and special-teamer Cassius Marsh. In a separate deal, the Patriots acquired special-teams ace Johnson Bademosi from the Lions.