New England continued stockpiling Pro Bowl talent, reaching agreement with free-agent cornerback Tory James on a one-year deal worth about $1.3 million dollars -- with a chance to earn another $1.4 million in incentives. James opted for New England primarily due to the Patriots' winning tradition and his rapport with head coach Bill Belichick, who will know just how to use the cornerback who has intercepted at least four passes in each of the past six seasons. Right now, New England does not plan to start James. But he provides valuable insurance with the unsettled contract situation of Asante Samuel, whom the Patriots franchised earlier this offseason.