That the Patriots are kicking the tires on Ole Miss multifaceted playmaker Dexter McCluster is hardly news. That they're going in again on him this late might be more telling.

New England will send a contingent to work out the ex-Rebel captain in his hometown of Largo, Fla. on Wednesday, just eight days before the NFL Draft kicks off.

The diminutive McCluster checked in at 5 feet 8 inches and 172 pounds at the combine, and ran a disappointing 4.56 40-yard dash there, but atoned for it by running 4.44 at his Pro Day. He had a very impressive week at the Senior Bowl, and the Patriots spoke extensively with him there, even giving him insight into where they saw McCluster as a pro.

"They had me up on the drawing board, had me drawing up routes, and what would I do in certain situations," McCluster said at the combine. "That got me prepared for now. Knowing that when I go in that room, I’ll be prepared to draw up a route or explain a concept or anything like that. It was more of a slot receiver-type role with them.”

McCluster was Mr. Everything at Ole Miss. His senior year, he was the quarterback in the 'Wild Rebel', rushed for 1,169 yards as a tailback, caught 44 passes for 520 yards and even threw a 27-yard touchdown pass.

I know plenty of you -- especially in the wake of the Santonio Holmes deal -- have your radar up for receiver help. This might be an offbeat place to find it.