Patriots Could Sign Barry Sims as Insurance Against Nick Kaczur

Suddenly, nine-year Raiders offensive lineman Barry Sims is very, very popular. Sims has started 119 games in his career, but after Oakland released him in February, he's taking his time plotting his next move. According to the Press Democrat's Matt Maiocco, there are a number of factors that will decide where Sims lands:

1) Chance to earn a starting job; 2) chance to make the postseason; 3) overall organization; 4) offensive line coach; 5) offensive coordinator; and, of course, 6) money.

In random order, of course. The loosely defined list of demands has Hashmarks' Mike Sando speculatin' on which team might have the best shot of signing Sims:

[No. 6, money,] sometimes trumps all others, but let's assume for the sake of discussion that any offers would be comparable. The Patriots would offer the best shot at the postseason, the best organization and arguably the best coaches. Sims' chances at starting could depend upon Nick Kaczur's future with the team, and where Oliver Ross fits. But it's tough to say right now how those situations might shake out.

Ah, yes, good ol' Nick Kaczur. The Patriots haven't hinted one way or the other what the future holds for Kaczur, but given the lack of depth on the right side of the line, there's no reason to think they'll make any moves, at least not until they have a backup plan in place (hi, Barry Sims!).

There is the chance the NFL suspends Kaczur for violating the league's substance-abuse policy, which could give Sims leverage with No. 6 on his wish list.

Virtual high-fives for capitalism.