While looking at some other fantasy football websites, I ran across an interesting comment on an article by Chris Bahr who writes for SportingNews. While rating players for the Titans this season, he had this to say about David Givens:

Givens is a relatively new member of a dubious club -- receivers who shine in New England, then fail miserably once they leave.

This got me thinking about other receivers that have recently done well in the Patriots system, but have underperformed or failed miserably on new teams. This is what I found out...

David Givens (TEN)

Outcome: Not enough information. Injuries in his first year in Tennessee derailed his season, so we'll have to wait till the end of this season to make an educated decision on this.

Deion Branch (SEA)

Outcome: Branch had a decent first season in Seattle, considering he was moving to a new location, with a new QB, starting along side a guy who was already the #1. This year Darrell Jackson is gone, so Branch becomes el numero uno in Seattle, so you can probably expect big things for him.

David Patten (NO)

Outcome: I guess Patten could be seen as the poster boy for Mr. Bahr's theory. He was performing well in New England alongside Deion Branch, but as soon as he moved to Washington his career pretty much fell apart. Maybe his new home in New Orleans will start a resurgence in his career, but at his age I find it hard to believe that this will be the case.

Terry Glenn (DAL)

Outcome: I'd almost say that Glenn's career has improved since moving to Dallas. He has a higher percentage of 1000 yards season in Dallas and equal (if not a bit better) TD numbers. With TO demanding double covers consistently in Dallas, expect another solid season from Glenn this year as well.

Bethel Johnson (HOU)

Outcome: Bethel Johnson continues to suck wherever he plays, it doesn't matter if he's on the Patriots or not.

In summary, Mr. Bahr is fabricating his theory based on the careers of David Givens and David Patten. Maybe he should have clarified and said that players named "David" who leave New England end up failing miserably...that would have been a bit more accurate. With Branch gearing up for a big year in Seattle and Terry Glenn about breaking even on his move to Dallas, it appears that just as many receivers are succeeding that leave New England as those that are failing. So, Chris Bahr...you are awarded no points for your theory. Do not pass go. Do not collect $200. Have a nice day.