Without the contract amendment, Samuel would have been looking at the same deal he's rejected since he was tagged in February. Speaking with the media yesterday for the first time since his return, Samuel would not confirm that he received any concessions. However, he continually alluded to an agreement being reached.
"Both sides are happy. We reached an agreement. It worked out fine," said Samuel, who missed a month of training camp. "Everybody is happy, that's what it all comes down to."
Coach Bill Belichick said it was good to have Samuel, who tied for the NFL lead in interceptions with 10 last season, back in the fold.
"I'm glad he's here," said Belichick. "I'm glad that we got things worked out. I'm looking forward to working with him. We drafted him four years ago and this will be his fifth year. He's been a very productive player for us. I'm glad it all got worked out."
Samuel was not present for the media portion of practice yesterday and was evasive when asked how long it would take him to get up to speed. The Patriots open the season Sept. 9 on the road against the New York Jets.
"I'll go out there and work hard and see where I'm at," he said.
Samuel, 26, worked out in Florida while he waited for a resolution to his contract situation, but acknowledged that his biggest challenge will be getting in football shape. He said he knows he has to earn his starting spot back at left corner.
"I've been here since my NFL career started. I think that's one advantage I have," he said. "I know the defense down, front, back, side to side. Hopefully, it will be to the advantage of me and I can fit right in."
