Author: Jarrett Bell, USA TODAY

While minority coaches wait for their chance at a top job, they’re still seeing an uneven playing field in getting — and keeping — prized gigs.

At 38, Ben Watson thought he was done in the NFL. But now the tight end is back and could play a crucial role for the Patriots.

Pressed on more than his pursuit of a trademark for the nickname “Tom Terrific,” Patriots QB Tom Brady resorted to some mixed messages.

At Michigan, Chase Winovich was known for lots of brash talk. But now as a rookie with the Patriots, the DE is making sure not to step out of line.

As the Patriots look to launch their Super Bowl title defense, there will be plenty of changes and new wrinkles to account for this season.

Montez Sweat was believed to have a heart condition, but a subsequent report indicated otherwise. The rookie isn’t getting caught up in the drama.

There’s two years left on the NFL’s current collective bargaining agreement, but the next deal hinges on several issues. But money towers over it all.

Don’t hold your breath if you’re thinking the NFL is on the brink of giving players to green light to smoke their pain away with marijuana.

The league adopts revision to newly implemented rules to review pass interference, forcing coaches (not the booth) to challenge at end of each half.

An agreement between NFL and the NFLPA to further study pain management could signal the league has an open mind on allowing marijuana as pain remedy.