A source said that the Patriots have "agreed to a multi-year contract extension" with Dir of Player Personnel Nick Caserio, who was in the final year of his contract. In Boston, Andrew Callahan notes Caserio has been in his current position since '08 and serves as an "integral part of the Patriots' dynasty" (BOSTON HERALD, 2/13). Also in Boston, Greg Bedard writes it was "assumed Caserio would bide his time, fulfill his contract through the draft and then become a free agent," but there "aren't many openings that are known at this time." Sources said that that is the "main reason" why Caserio extended his contract with the Patriots (BOSTONSPORTSJOURNAL.com, 2/13).
SUBSTITUTE STAR: In L.A., LZ Granderson writes following the Chargers' announcement this week that QB Philip Rivers is "not coming back," coach Anthony Lynn now is the "face of the franchise." Chargers QB Tyrod Taylor is in the "best position" to take the starting gig, but he is "not a star in the league." Chargers Chair Dean Spanos can "provide a saucy quote or two," but he is "not the sound bite machine" that Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones is. Lynn "must find a way to get a city that didn't want his team to begin with to care while inhabiting a spotlight that makes him uncomfortable" (L.A. TIMES, 2/13).
COSTUME CHANGE? ESPN.com's Jenna Laine noted the Buccaneers are "hinting at new uniforms" in a video posted on their official Twitter account yesterday. The franchise is "not officially commenting on the video or on new uniforms at this time, but there is talk of more videos coming." The team's two previous uniform changes were announced in March and April, so changes "could be announced soon" (ESPN.com, 2/12).
