The Patriots just added Troy Brown and Chad Brown to their roster -- wide receiver-former defensive back T. Brown from the physically unable to perform list and one-time Steeler and Seahawk star C. Brown as a free agent.

What's interesting about this is how many birthday candles these guys blow out. Troy Brown, who was responsible for getting New England into the AFC championship game last year by forcing a fumble at a key point in the playoff game with San Diego, is 36. Chad Brown is 37.

Now think about this. If the Patriots field a linebacker lineup of Mike Vrabel (32), Tedy Bruschi (34), Junior Seau (38) and Chad Brown (37), the average age of the linebackers is over 35. Even with Adalius Thomas (30) playing, it's 33 1/2. And backup LB Larry Izzo is 33.

Say what you will about Bill Belichick, but he clearly weighs smarts and experience as heavily as sheer athleticism in putting together a team. And who can argue with that formula?