Updates on where things stand with some of the Patriots' own free agents

The free-agent market is starting to slow, but there are still a handful of available players who were part of last year's Patriots team who still haven't found a home.


— On Tuesday night, there was a report that seemed to hint offensive tackle LaAdrian Waddle would be returning to New England relatively soon. But according to a source close to Waddle, the 26-year-old is meeting with the Cowboys on Wednesday morning. The 6-foot-6, 315-pound Waddle has played in 15 regular-season games for the Patriots over the last two-plus years, including 12 contests (and four starts) in 2017. It's clear that Waddle and Cameron Fleming — two offensive tackles who recently hit the free-agent market — are taking their time deciding on their next location, as the tackle market is as good as it has been in recent memory.

— While James Harrison’s Instagram posts certainly make him look like someone who is interested in returning for another season, there’s no movement — at least at this point — when it comes to talks between him and the Patriots, according to a league source. Harrison, who will turn 40 in May, was signed by New England late last year and played significant snaps in the regular-season finale and into the playoffs. The 6-foot, 242-pounder had a pair of sacks for the Patriots in 2017.

— Defensive linemen Ricky Jean-Francois and Alan Branch are reportedly close to agreeing to new deals with the Lions and Matt Patricia, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media. No surprise on either count, as Patricia has already landed ex-Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount and built many terrific relationships with players when he was in New England. The 31-year-old Jean-Francois played in six regular-season games with the Patriots last season, and did well filling in for Branch, who was out of the mix for a few reasons, including injury. Branch spent three-plus seasons with New England, but the 33-year-old was a non-factor down the stretch and into the 2017 playoffs.

— As of Wednesday morning, there is no new information on Fleming (who has also taken a visit to Dallas) and linebacker Marquis Flowers.