The Facts: Bulger, who is seeking a new contract, didn't show up Thursday for a mandatory team meeting.

Diehards Line:HC Scott Linehan said it was an excused absence and that the two-time Pro Bowl quarterback would not be fined. He added team officials were meeting with Bulger's representatives and was hopeful Bulger would be on the field for the first practice Friday. Bulger is in the final year of a four-year contract worth just over $19 million. The team has said signing him is a priority.