The Facts: Baring any last-minute, surprise offer sheets, Givens, a restricted free agent, will officially be back in the fold today, playing out the 2005 season with a chance to go to unrestricted free agency after the season. The deadline for offer sheets is at 4 p.m., and while Givens has drawn some feelers around the league, no team has indicated any interest in signing him to an offer sheet and giving up a first-round pick in compensation if the Pats failed to match.

Diehards Line:Givens' agent, Brad Blank, said last night that his client plans on signing his one-year, $1.43 million tender offer today as the signing period draws to a close. Blank has talked about a long-term extension with the Pats, but as of now nothing is imminent. Givens is expected to remain the starter opposite Deion Branch this year.