The Facts: NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Friday that Hogan, a restricted free agent, is expected to sign a three-year, $12 million, heavily guaranteed contract to join New England, per a source involved in the deal. The Bills have five days to match the offer or lose Hogan without any compensation from the Patriots.
Diehards Line:Given the front-loaded structure of the pact, the Bills aren't expected to match, per Rapoport. ... Despite catching just 36 balls for 450 yards last season, Hogan -- known as "7-Eleven" because, in theory, he's always open -- impressed coach Bill Belichick with his football IQ during a visit this week, per the Bills' official website. In addition, at 6-1 and 220 pounds, Hogan is bigger than both Danny Amendola and Julian Edelman. The trio would give quarterback Tom Brady a reliable collection of receivers to pair along with game-changing tight end Rob Gronkowski. New England is still expected to look for a downfield burner to add to the mix.