The New England Patriots have a big week planned with the team scheduled to receive their Super Bowl rings, according to Mike Reiss of ESPN.

The Patriots give out the Super Bowl rings early so that players who have moved onto new teams can still participate in the ceremony.

Defensive end Trey Flowers, who signed a five-year, $90 million contract with the Lions as a free agent in March, relayed to me that he wouldn't miss it. His presence Thursday, along with several others now playing elsewhere, serves as a reminder that while members of the 2018 Patriots are now scattered across the NFL, they still have great affection for one another and appreciation for what they accomplished together.

The RSVP's for Thursday's party which will take place at Robert Kraft's house were delivered in a classy box that included the Lombardi Trophy on the cover.

Brian Flores, who was the Patriots defensive coordinator last year and the current Miami Dolphins head coach, will also be in attendance for the event. This will be a good chance for Flores to see his former players and really cherish the Super Bowl.

Flores was already in place to be the Dolphins coach before the Super Bowl was even played, so right after he went to Miami to take over the job. There really wasn't time for celebrating and this is going to be a good chance to do that.

It should be a fun night filled with rings and probably plenty of cocktails for all.