Steve

Gregory

The Broncos and Panthers were also interested in the long-time Bolt, but he’ll head to a team that sported one of the league’s most dysfunctional secondaries in 2011. The Union-Tribune San Diego’s Michael Gehlken reports Gregory will be New England’s starting free safety after he played strong safety for the Chargers.

The teams haven’t been disclosed, but Gregory is reportedly viewed as a starter. The Chargers seem likely to lose Gregory after failing to commit to him as more than a reserve.

ESPN Boston reports the Broncos and Panthers have also “checked in” on Gregory. He had a rough age-28 campaign in 2011, but would still be an upgrade for a Pats team that was often making it up as it went along in the secondary last season.

“I feel like I’m a legit starter in this league,” said Gregory, who started 13 games this past season, but not by design. He was thrust into the lineup by Bob Sanders’ year-ending injury. Unfortunately, Gregory may not be pleased by what he finds on the market. He graded 74th among 86 NFL safeties by Pro Football Focus this season, and caused just one turnover (a pick six).

Gregory injured himself in Wednesday’s practice. Pro Football Focus grades Gregory as slightly below average in coverage and against the run. Veteran Paul Oliver will fill in opposite Eric Weddle, with rookie Shareece Wright providing depth. Also inactive for the Bolts in Week 10: WR Malcom Floyd, OLB Shaun Phillips, WR Bryan Walters, OG Kris Dielman, DE Vaughn Martin, and LB Darryl Gamble.

Stuckey emerged as a key special teamer last season, and the defensive staff likes his size and speed package. Bob Sanders won’t be back after lasting just two games in San Diego, and 13-game starter Steve Gregory is intent on testing the market as a free agent. More of a two-down safety, Stuckey could split the job with a player acquired through free agency or the draft.

Other potential candidates include second-round FS Tavon Wilson, James Ihedigbo, and veteran CB Will Allen. Gregory figures to open training camp as the starter based on seniority, but will likely face heavy competition from Wilson, who’s the superior talent.

The Pats are putting in a full-pads practice, which suggests both players have been cleared for game action this week. With Aqib Talib returning from suspension in Week 11, New England is getting reinforcements for a beleaguered secondary.

Gregory, out since Week 4, was cleared to practice Wednesday. ESPN Boston considers Gregory more likely to play than SS Patrick Chung (shoulder, hamstring), who’s also listed as questionable. DE Trevor Scott (hamstring) and LB Tracy White (foot) have been officially ruled out.

With Gregory out, rookie Tavon Wilson will make his first NFL start. Wilson has two interceptions and two fumble recoveries to go along with 11 total tackles in the first four games rotating with Chung and Gregory. Wilson has also played in three-safety sets as a hybrid linebacker in sub formations.