"For the first time since the end of the 2009 season, Chad Ochocinco recorded no catches in a game, participating in fewer than 10 plays during the Patriots' 20-16 win against the Cowboys on Sunday.

With the trade deadline today, and with the bye week a chance for teams to take stock of themselves, Patriots offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien and director of player personnel Nick Caserio were hit with several questions regarding Ochocinco. The result was unflinching support of the receiver, who already has received most of his $6 million salary.

"We're happy with what Chad's done for us," Caserio said. "He's probably one of our best practice players. He goes out there, he works hard, practices hard, he's out there on the field, he competes. We're six games in with a long season and we're happy that Chad's on the team.""