Nose tackle Vince Wilfork's absence from Foxboro during last week's optional — although attended by 76 of his Patriots teammates — "organized team activity," is an indication of his unhappiness with his contract. He's entering the final season of the six-year deal he signed as a first-round draft choice in 2004.

While I never begrudge a player whatever a team is willing (or so foolish as) to pay him, I have no sympathy with players who hold out when they're under contract. Next year, I hope the talented and personable Wilfork gets every penny he can, whether from the Patriots or some other team. This year, he should simply show up and show why he deserves big money in his next contract.

Perhaps sensing impending contract issues with Wilfork, the Pats drafted 330-pound Ron Brace in the second round out of Boston College. He and veteran Mike Wright likely will share the nose job if Wilfork isn't around.

jdonalds @projo.com