The Patriots and Gerard Warren have talked, a source says.
Though New England is interested in bringing Warren back, the team won't look to resolve the defensive lineman's contract status until after the NFL Draft (April 26-28) or later. The deadline for unsigned unrestricted free agents to sign with new teams is July 22 or the first day of the first NFL training camp.
Options? Likely the Patriots or retirement. Warren said before the 2011 season he didn't even want to hear from his agent unless the news concerned New England. He was signed for a second season here, cut September 7 in a roster shuffle, and re-signed three weeks later.
His presence has given New England solid depth on the line. Warren had 12 tackles and a sack in 12 games as a rotational reserve.
After New England's Super Bowl XLVI loss -- Warren's first taste of Super Sunday in an 11 year career -- it sounded though he has unfinished business.
"Hopefully Ill get another shot to fight and grind with this team because I know what the goal is in this organization."
It was a statement reminiscent of last year's return: "I knew what the purpose was here."
New England has signed three defensive linemen this offseason -- Jonathan Fanene, Trevor Scott, Marcus Harrison -- but it's fair to note the team had over 20 on the roster during training camp last year. Bill Belichick wants depth and he wants top-tier men down the line.
That in mind, it wouldn't hurt to give the 33-year old Warren a one-year, incentive-laden deal near the minimum.