One of Bill Belichick's rules when dealing with the media is to never discuss a player that is not currently in his building. Traded, injured, cut -- it doesn't matter. Once you're gone, you're never to be spoken of again.
So it's no surprise that the New England Patriots coach hasn't exactly been an open book when it comes to G Brian Waters, who is still yet to report to work as the team begins preparing for the season opener against the Tennessee Titans. It also wasn't particularly noteworthy when Belichick responded to inquiries about Waters Monday morning by simply stating, "He's not on our active roster."
But the Patriots may have said everything they need to say about the situation Monday afternoon by issuing Waters' jersey No. 54 to rookie LB Dont'a Hightower -- a move that was necessary since Hightower previously wore No. 45 and NFL rules dictate that linebackers wear a number in the 50s or 90s.
While giving away the number, which was also previously worn by linebacker Tedy Bruschi, doesn't close the door on a Waters return, it also doesn't indicate that the Pro Bowl guard will be walking through it anytime soon.
But the Patriots continue to hold hope. Waters didn't sign last year until Sept. 4 and was ready to go by the Sept. 12 opener against Miami. If he has kept himself in shape, it stands to reason that the 35-year-old could be ready for Sunday if he reports by Wednesday.
As of now, there is no indication that will happen. Waters remains at his home in Texas and the last he spoke to the media, he did so only long enough to say he wasn't willing to comment on his situation.
Nick Underhill covers the Patriots for MassLive.com. Follow him on Twitter @CBSSportsNFLNE or @nick_underhill.