Free Agency: Todd Collins

NFL Free Agency isn't even 24 hours old yet and the hits keep on coming. The Washington Redskins re-signing QB Todd Collins is a hit to Jason Campbell's job security.

The Redskins signed Collins to a three year deal. It's somewhat surprising that Collins didn't test the waters a little longer. After a Jason Campbell knee injury, Collins took the helm with 4 games remaining in the season. He led the team well enough to beat out the Minnesota Vikings for the final Wild-Card spot. His performance against Seattle in the first round of the playoffs didn't help him but it wasn't bad enough to have really hurt him either.

Maybe he didn't leave because he has his eye on the quarterback spot in Washington. New head coach Jim Zorn doesn't have any more ties to, Campbell, than he does Collins. Campbell will likely get the benefit of the doubt for the first few tough games. If Campbell struggles consistently it will be hard for a new coach, already facing accusations that he is not cut out for the job, to stick with him. Especially with a back up that has shown already that he can lead the team to wins.

Pre Free Agency projection for Washington's offseason

NFL Moves

Small disclaimer:I know the posting has been a little light lately. I have been busy. (Yes, despite what Tony Kornheiser thinks, I am not sitting in my mom's basement waiting to write the next post) Now that I have a little time let get to the business at hand

The New England Patriots off season moves are always top billing for me. While despising the franchise is easy, arguing with their results is not. This year's surprising moves include not only what they've done but also what's been done to them.

They started their offseason shockfest by choosing not to franchise tag Randy Moss. He doesn't officially become a free agent until February 29th. I think at that point we'll find out if the Patriots have a deal in place with Randy or if they really know something we don't.

One of the areas where New England is aging quickly is at linebacker. With retirement questions swirling around Tedi Bruschi and Junior Seau, the Patriots surprised no one when they brought in recently released Zach Thomas, offering him a contract before he even left the facility. The surprises started coming when Thomas opted not to sign with the Patriots, choosing Dallas instead(ending my string of referring to him as Seau 2.0). The Patriots then did the last thing people expected cut Roosevelt Colvin from their already questionable linebacking core.

With any other team I would be boldly prediciting that both Randy Moss and Roosevelt Colvin will be back in Foxboro. That these moves were simply adjustments to the salary cap and how the contract numbers play out. With the Patriots though the only thing I am ever sure of is that I have no idea what is coming next. I do know better than to question the moves of a team that was won win away from a dynasty. A word that is rare these days in the parity driven NFL.

New England Patriots Offseason

New England Patriots have certainly had better offseasons recently. After one of the greatest seasons in history, an offseason begun watching the other team celebrate your defeat is difficult. The continuing, evergrowing struggle of spygate isn't helping. New England, in typical fashion, are not allowing that to detour them from the business of getting better.

The season long "what if they go 19-0" session was certainly entertainimg, but New England now faces the truth; they didn't shank a field goal, have a fluke fumble, or suffer catastrophic injuries. They were outplayed on the field, simple football, along with some great scheming by Giants defensive coordinator, Steve Spagnoulo, defeated them.

Which weakness, laid bare in the final game, will the Patriots address through the draft. With definite need at linebacker, Kieth Rivers(LB-USC) would be a likely prospect. Belichick has said in the past, he doesn not like to draft linebackers. Feeling that they can be evaluated much better after a few years in the league. Belichick's evaluation of recently released Dolphin, Zach Thomas, must have been good. Thomas was offered a contract during his visit to New England shortly after the Dolphins cut him loose.

Those two factors make a LB unlikely in the first round. The front line of the Patriots defense needs some attention. A solid group all year long, but they began to show their age as the season progressed, a situation likely to get worse not better. frontline options this earlyin the draft should still be good. Franchise defensive prospects Sedrick Ellis(DT-USC) and Vernon Gholston could still be available for New England. Ellis would be a great fit for Belichick, his motor suits Belichick play 60 minutes mantra. After his performance at the Senior Bowl he may not last until the Patriots pick. Gholston, certanly not be a bad consolation prize, may not be the best fit for the 3-4 the Patriots play. Whichever they choose to address it will be with the Niners #7 pick. The Patriots #31 pick was surredered as a penaty for spygate. The Giants now have the #31 pick.

New England is making all these preperations amidst ongiong spygate drama. Former video Assistant, Matt Walsh, has claimed he video taped the Rams wolk through prior to their Superbowl meeting with the Patriots. Belichick has denied ever filming or seeing film of a walk through. Alongside that back and forth Senator Arlen Specter is pressuring Roger Goodell with a laundry list of accusations; why did he punish Belichick priot to seeing the tapes, why did he destroy the tapes, why if he knew about Matt Walsh hasn't he persued questioning him.

Belichick has flatly denied Walsh's accusations. Along with personell director, Scott Pioli, Belicheck has gone out of his way to minimize Walsh. While Goodell and Belichick would love to see this go away; Specter, and the group of former Rams suing Belichick and the Patriots, seem bound to make sure that doesn't happen.

New York Giants Offseason

The best part of the Giants Offseason is how it started; with a Superbowl parade. Now comes the difficult task of repeating. While much of the offense seems set; I would say deep at some spots. The offensive line could use a little work. The defense has question marks throughout.

The offensive line isn't truly a huge need. The Giants experienced some injury issues toward the end of the regular season. They held up well with their backups, but as the age of their line creeps up, they could start to look for the next crop.

Since their offensive needs certainly can't be described as pressing they are more likely to look to their defense. The lack of a primary need on defense is less about the Giants over all talent and more about the numreous question marks. Both cornerbacks played well-when they weren't hurt. Safety James Butler stepped up in the post season-but his week to week play isn't good enough for a starter. Linebacker Mathias Kiwanua seems to be fitting into defensive coordinator, Steve Spagnuolo's, plans well. Linebackers Kawika Mitchell and Reggie Torbor played well all season, but both are unrestricted free agents. This is where Giant fans find out if ownership is commited to building a dynasty.

Since they are likely to keep one, but not both of them. The Giants draft starts here. They could get quite a steal here if Dan Conner(LB-Penn St.) is still on the board. Linebacker is not a real area of need for the teams choosing shortly before the Giants #31 pick. In a turn of luck, the Giants would likely have missed out on him if the Patriots had been able to keep their pick. It was forfeited as a penalty for the Spygate incident.

If you are interested in the Offseason plans of the rest of the league check out this list

Green Bay Packers Offseason

The Green Bay Packers Offseason breakdown cont really begin without addressing the 800-pound gorilla in the room. The 250+ start quarterback in the room actually. Brett Favre started this offseason by saying he would make his decision a lot sooner this time. He has yet to make an announcement of his decision so far. Even though I am a huge Vikings fan I have already put in my request that he come back.

Even if Favre retires they have a nice succession plan in place with Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers put on a fine display when Favre went out against the Cowboys. Apparently the Bikini Girls were not as impressed I was.

The Packers needs are primarily on defense. While Al Harris and Charles Woodson are a top-5 maybe even a top-3 cornerback duo. I couldn't even have guessed who their backups were prior to researching this post. Add to that the fact that they are 33 and 31 respectively. It becomes clear this is a reall area of need.

They may also have some questions about the line backers. While it would be a stretch to call Brady Poppinga a weak spot. When you put him beside Nick Barnett and AJ Hawk. It will be hard to justify the 4 million dollar cap hit that Poppinga will call for this coming season.

While the Packers could look for a linebacker they are more likely to address the corner back position. Not only because that is a larger need, but also because they may have a chance to get a steal at their #30 spot.

If Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie is still on the board at this point, the Packers could be looking at an ideal situation. They could bring on the Rodgers-Cromartie who already has above par athleticism and ball skills, without having to ask him to play right away. This would give him time to fill out physically while the packers coaching staff, as well as Harris and Woodson mentor him on being a more physical corner. An area they both excell at that is a weak spot Rodgers-Cromartie.

While Packers fans wait with anticipation for Favre's decision. They can at least take some comfort int he fact that the future is bright in Green Bay. Between their talent and the fact the rest of their conference looks so weak, it looks bright for a while to come.

San Francisco 49'ers Offseason

The San Francisco 49'ers Offseason got off to a real interesting start with the back and forth between head coach Mike Nolan and starting quarterback Alex Smith. Then they both got a little help in the form of Offensive Coordinator Mike Martz.

While Martz could be just the piece that solves all their problems. He just might be the piece that spells the end for one or both of them. Alex Smith definitely needs a mentor that can help him tap into his potential. Either that or a lobotomy so he isn't such an emotional eggshell. Nolan on the other hand definitely needs someone like Martz who can help him turn up the offense on a team that grossly under achieved in 2007. However, if Martz manages to turn the offensive production up and Nolan still can't deliver on some wins. Martz might end up helping himself to Nolans job.

It just isn't time to give up on Alex Smith yet so while that is a question mark. The last thing his fragile ego needs is for the Niners to take a quarterback. So with the team set well in the backfield with Frank Gore. The Niners need a strong Wide Receiver to compliment Darell Jackson, Arnaz Battle and Tight End Vernon Davis. While any of those three could take the next step to beocme a premier player none of them managed to do it last year.

Early Doucet(WR-LSU) is a big time speed guy that could really free things up underneath. He has also shown that he can step and deliver in big games and big situations.While the head of a team certainly isn't going to be a Wide Receiver any kind of leadership the Niners could bring would be helpful. Especially, considering they are one of the youngest teams in the NFL.

The Niners could also look to shore up thier offensive line though they do a have an early pick in the second round to address that. It would go a long way to improving Alex Smiths play if he wasn't getting dropped one out of every ten plays like he did in 2007.

NFL Teams Begin Offseason Shakeups

As the NFL Offseason gets into full swing several teams attempt to superman the MO-mentum.

It is nice to see teams that had such disappointing performances last season not settling. I mean as a Vikings fan I have watched several offseasons come and go wondering why nothing was done to improve, when I assume they were as unhappy with the previous season as I was.

This Offseason the long suffering Dolphins and Falcons fans can at least take solace in the fact that their teams seem commited to getting better. The Panthers fans while not nearly as bad off as those two camps, can at least see small signs of improvement.

The Dolphins began their offseason remodel under Bill Parcells. They kicked things off first by dumping Marty Booker(WR), Trent Green(QB), L.J. Shelton(OT), Keith Traylor(DT),Anthony Alabi(OT), Anthony Bryant(DT), Marion Dukes(OT), Marquay Love(DT), Joe Toledo(OT). Then they commited the de-aging process by telling Zach Thomes(LB) he would no longer be needed. Honestly, it would seem lik a scary proposition to dump almost 20 percent of your teams roster, especially a face of the franchise guylike Thomas. Then again when you're 1-and-15 you probably ought to look to dump even more. Bottom line while I may not be sure move to move about the Dolphins decision. I am sure I would have confidence in Parcells.


The Panthers came to the get younger, and cut salary party just a little later than the Dolphins. The cut Dan Morgan(LB) as well as Mike Wahle(OG). While Wahle is a little better right now, and will probable alnd a gig sooner. Morgan is still a great prospect, he won't draw the kind of interest(or money for that matter) that he did a few years ago as a free agent. But there are teams that will take a shot on him recovering his health. Especially teams that could use the kind of leadership he has shown, for their defense.

The Falcons are rounding out this trend for now. They announced to day that they are releasing Alge Crumpler(TE), Byron Leftwich(QB), Wayne Gandy(OT), Lewis Sanders(CB), Jamin Elliott(WR), Marcus Wilkins(LB), Rod Coleman(DT). Ok some of this was clearly the other shoe dropping. I mean even Leftwich had to figure he was gone. I am surprised to see Gandy and Coleman on this list. They will be on new teams by the time, it really matters. But those could be the result of financial concerns so I'll give them the benefit of the doubt.


Where I can't seem to keep from flapping my arms(Read: Dirty Bird) in disgust, is Alge Crumpler. You have got to be kidding me. Hey new gm, (who's name I am not even taking the time to look up, because with moves like this he'll be gone before I can research it) don't make a big move to make a big move. No matter who your quarterback is next season I am sure it wont be anyone established. With that as a given, you might want to consider hanging onto that security blanket of a tight end. Every new quarterback loves a safe dump off guy, and hates new gm Thomas Dimitroff(Did you really think I wasn't even gonna look it up. :-). It really is a blessing to Alge Crumpler though. He is definitely moving up no matter where he goes. He will have a new jersey by the time I hit publish on this post.


Like I said the expected portion of this Leftwich. If he was on thin ice as the season ended. He had to hear that ice cracking when head coach Mike Smith was brought over from the team he was just released from to start last season.


While all the turnover is interesting. The best part of this is the fact that the league gets better overall. Being a huge football fan every move that makes the whole league more interesting I am a supporter of. Is it pre-season yet??

San Diego Chargers Offseason

As we peer into the San Diego Chargers Offseason plans, you can't help but question where they would get stronger. I don't really see a pressing need for them other than to improve their depth in a few areas.

Right after the season ending loss to the Patriots I posted about the Giant Man-Goes that Philip Rivers displayed by playing within a week of his surgery. Given some time to think about it I somewhat backed off of my opinion on him playing. You can't take anything away from Rivers decision to play. I find most of the fault to be with San Diego's coaches and medical staff.

If their depth is a concern it would be in the defensive backfield. As well as someone to fill in for Jamal Williams as the wear and tear on that big bosy seems to be effecting him more and more. In order to strengthen the entire defensive backfield they would be smart to go with a guy like Reggie Smith(DB-Okl.) who is capable of playing either corner or safety. He is talented enough to shortly be taking the place of Marlon McCree who has shown some shortcomings at safety. The Chargers may also look to move Drayton Florence to safety in order to give Cromartie more time on the field. Though he has not really shown a physicality that I personally like from the safety position.

On the other hand they could opt to look to the defensive line to provide some rest for Williams and a replacement for him down the road. While it would be a reach for them to take Pat Sims (DT-Auburn), he is not a superstar but he is a huge physical presence at 6'4" 315. It wouldn't be that hard to reach though because this draft class is very light on interior linemen.

Probably the best news for the Chargers moving forward is that they no longer have the "one and done in the playoffs" monkey on thier back. Norv Turner isn't coaching for his job any longer, at least not to the degree he was last season. He can relax a little and coach. The players should continue their momentum that they gained when midway through the season, they decided that Schottenheimer wasn't coming back through that door, so that might as well play for Norv.

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Jacksonville Jaguars Offseason

The Offseason plans of the Jacksonville Jaguars are somewhat cloudy. The Jags reached a level of success that the team can be somewhat satisfied with. It is hard to look back at the final game against the Patriots and then say "we have this deficiency and that deficiency".

If the Jaguars have a need it is probably at defensive end. With Reggie Hayward's injuries seem to linger enough to hold him back last season he will be a big question mark. Bobbie McCray will be a free agent and may draw more from a free agency pool that is light on defensive end, than the Jags are willing to pay to keep him . They also need to resign Grady Jackson but since that is likely, it will probably be the DE that they address in the Draft.

A likely prospect is Calais Campbell(DE-Miami). Campbell is a giant physical prospect at 6'8" 280 lb. which could be intriguing to a defensive team like Jacksonville. While he didn't really perform up to expectations in his final season at Miami, it is likely that a leader like Head Coach , Jack Del Rio, would see him as someone he could bring that potential out of.

Jack Del Rio is also in interesting part of this equation. With his former career as the Linebacker and play caller on the field for the teams he was on. Del Rio seems to have his hand in the defense of former defensive coordinator Mike Smith. With Smith now having moved on to become the head coach of the Falcons in Atlanta. It will be interesting to see if Del Rio will take a stronger hand in the defense or if he will bring in a defensive coordinator that has a little bigger presence than Mike Smith.

In either case the Jags look like they are a strong contending team for the near future. As long as they continue the upward mobility that they have shown over the last few seasons. So long as they don't rest on the success that they have enjoyed.

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Seattle Seahawks Offseason

The Seattle Seahawks Offseason has been all about coaches so far. With the confirmed return of Mike Homgren the succession plan after the 2008 season is in place. The plan has Jim Mora Jr. taking over when Holmgren retires at the end of this season. The most recent coaching move is the fact that Quarterbacks coach Jim Zorn went to the other Washington to be an offensive coordinator and two weeks later defaulted his way into the head coaching job, which he seems slightly under qualified for.

The biggest glaring weakness for the Seahawks this season was the run game. Homlgren acknowledged this during the season when he basically announced that the team was going to go to the passing game as a primary(solitary?) weapon. While I can certainly lay some of the blame for the decline in rushing at the feet of Shawn Alexander who seemes to be stretching out that Madden Curse a little longer than most guys. He was unable to lower his shoulders and punch through a hole all season. He spent way to much time dancing around behind the line.

The thing is it might not be him who changed so much. The biggest impact on the Seahawks rushing game is the fact that they now have to punch through holes. Prior to letting pro-bowl guard Steve Hutchinson go to Minnesota there wasn't nearly as much punching through holes as there was waltzing through alleys. Now with Hutchinson gone to Minnesota, Seattle can't seem to run the ball and Minnesota just set the single game record for rushing yardage (though I think Adrian Peterson deserves a fair amount of credit there).

The question becomes, which area to focus on in order to improve the run game? It may not be the Seahawks question to answer as much as it is the drafts question to answer. Around the end of the first round when the Seahawks #25 pick comes up they are more likely to find a running back than they are a good fit for their offensive line. In a world of teal and lime fantasy they will have answered the line questions by picking up Alan Faneca through free agency. Though this will be one of the moments where we find out how much Seattle is willing to pay to step up to the next level. As far that draft pick, they are likely to pick up Rashard Mendenhall(RB-UI) while the Seahawks still have a lot of money tied up in Alexander. Homlgren however made it very clear that they would not be staying with the status quo when he he said the the running game required a " major offseason fix". That certainly doesn't sound like any amount of salary is going to keep Alexanders starting spot safe.

Another possibilty is that the Seahawks look to upgrade at Tight End. Marcus Pollard has certainly not been the performer they had hoped for when they signed him out of free agency. He was especially disappointing in the playoff loss to Green Bay. The Seahawks could look to Fred Davis(TE-USC) while most teams aren't going to take a tight end in the first round, Davis might be one the guys who would be worth it.

With this being the final year for Mike Holmgren. He is now in a position where veteran leaders on his team can rally players around that sentiment. I am guessing from Holmgren's background that this had little to do with his decision but that doesn't change the fact it might work to his advantage.

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Tennessee Titans Offseason

The Tennesee Titans 2008 Offseason will be full of action. Some of this action started when Vince Young ordered found out about the firing of Norm Chow. Chow was replaced by Mike Heimerdinger. This might turn out to be better fit since he is a run first type of coordinator and Vince Young can't pass...

While the Titans have spent several picks lately on Wide Receivers, they have yet to see much production from those picks. Since Vince Young is clearly running this franchise, there is a large chance they go with Limas Sweed(WR-UT) from the same Texas alma mater as Vince Young. Outside of making Merrill Hoge's personal whipping boy comfortable, Sweed is a very talented receiver. The biggest upside to him is that much like Young he is a winner, even if the stats don't always bear out his greatness. He definately rises to the big occasion. The question really is can the Titans get to a big occasion.

Another possible area of focus for the Titans will be the Defensive End spot. While they are surely going to franchise tag Albert Haynesworth. That is only a one year fix, and with the money that will be required by that tag, they are likely to be short on money when comes to resigning the other free agent on the line, Atwan Odom. Several teams have already shown an interest, so he is likely gone. I will be interested to see how he performs wherever he ends up without a guy like Haynesworth pulling attention away from him.

In an effort to address this need on the line they may look to Calais Campbell(DE-Miami) while Campbell didn't have the production expected of him this year he is a monster at 6'8" 280. He would almost certainly draw a double team if he can show any kind of skill. Between that and the attention Haynesworth draws. The two of them could team up to be a dominant force on the line while freeing up some of the other memebers of the Titans front seven.

One of the intereesting things to watch for this season will be the security that Jeff Fisher has enjoyed. He is the longest tenured coach in the league and without much improvement in recent years. You have to wonder when tha seat starts to get a little hot. The other ongoing saga will be is Vince Young a viable quarterback in this league. Despite some of my joking earlier in this post I think he is. I'll take a winner over a guy who throws a good ball.

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Pittsburgh Steelers Offseason

The Pittsburgh Steelers 2008 Offseason should start with a couple of phone calls. Phone call number one should go to the St. Louis Rams and ask them how all-world running back Steven Jackson did once their normally strong offensive line suffered a few losses to injury. If that doesn't convince them that they should do what is necessary to keep gaurd Alan Faneca, they could always get position specific and call the Seattle Seahawks and see what they think about letting a pro-bowl left guard leave. Since they let Steve Hutchinson go to Minnesota, Sean Alexander can't get any traction in the run game. Meanwhile Minnesota had a rookie set the single game rushing record behind Steve Hutchinson.

The unfortunate thing here is that these calls wont be made. The Steelers are not the type of franchise that will bend to a players demands. I certainly don't think they should. I think this deal should have been worked out long ago so Faneca wasn't put into a position to make those demands. But that is hindisight and hindsight does not make an offseason plan.

After Faneca leaves and when you consider the fact the Roethlisberger is not the kind of quarterback who has succeeded as the main focus of an offense. The Steelers definately need to shore up their line. They are likely to find just the guy they need in Brandon Albert(OG-Virg) while he is a natural Gaurd, but he has shown the ability to play tackle as well. That flexibility
could benefit them both by replacing Faneca and by filling in across the line if they suffer injuries on the offensive side the ay they did on defense in 2007.

If they find that either the Cowboys who currently have the 22nd pick right before them or the Dolphins, who are rumored to be trying to get the cowboys first rounders for their number one, have taken Albert the Steelers are likely to look to replace the over-guaranteeing, under-delivering Anthony Smith. If the Cowboys have taken have taken Albert here they have likely passed on Aqib Talib(CB-Ka), who would be a nice choice . However, if Talib adds a good 40-time to his athleticism and football speed he will be long gone before this spot.

The third route that the Steelers could go would be to get a bigger wide receiver. Much to the displeasure of Hines Ward, Roethlisberger made statements that they needed one. But just because it hurts doesn't mean it isn't true Hines. A likely consideration here is Limas Sweed(WR-UT) at 6'5" 219 he is definitely a big receiver, he also has shown great leaping ability and athleticism. He has shown a good level of toughness as far as physical play and the ablility to beat that jam on the line. Where he needs to upgrade that toughness is as a pass blocker he is good at best and to play on the Steelers you have to be a great run blocking receiver. This shouldn't be any issue beyond a little mentoring on how to properly block. He has shown a certain toughness going over the middle, especially in the moments that count.

Not the most important offseason factoid but here it is, Mike Tomlin won the sexiest coach in the NFL award given out by Victoria's Secret during Superbowl week. Just managing to beat out the The Human Solar Panel, The Walrus brothers, and The Saddle bag with eyes. This is about as impressive as when I beat my 4-year old at wrestling. And you better believe that I do beat him. I DRINK HIS MILKSHAKE, I DRINK IT UP.

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Dallas Cowboys Offseason

The Dallas Cowboys offseason road is going to be key to Wade Phillips job. If he doesn't manage to improve on the one and done playoff appearance he amde this year following the same scenario last season for Parcells. He is likely to be the next Marty Schottenheimer, getting canned even after making the playoffs.

The fact that Jason Garrett is now the highest paid assistant in the league and the de facto coach in waiting. That can't have Wade Phillips sitting back pondering his long-term career at the helm of the Cowboys. He knows he doesn't have to backslide at all , simply by not making any forward progress he will be out the door. Jerry Jones is certainly not one of the owners known for his patience with losing.

The Cowboys really need to address one main proble on the offensive side of the ball. For the last 4 weeks that they played they couldn't get in the endzone. Part of this stems from the fact that Offensive Coordinator, Jason Garrett, went away from the run. Between the fact that teams were able to put their focus on Romo and the Cowboys offensive line was not as strong as years past. Romo constantly found himself running the duck-and-chuck offense. While regular standout Flozell Adams will still be keeping the left side locked down for the 'boys. The right side could use some shoring up.

The Cowboys first pick comes by way of Cleveland as part of the deal that the Browns made to draft Brady Quinn. You have to figure that the Cowboys expected better than 22nd pick from them. Never the less that is where they stand. I think they would be wise to go with Brandon Albert(OG-Virg) while he is a natural Gaurd he has shown the ability to play tackle as well and that flexibility should suit the Cowboys questionable offensive line needs.

On the defensive side of the ball, they reala rea of need is in the defensive backfield. While Terrance Newman managed to make the pro-bowl, all that did was make me less impressed with the pro-bowl, not more impressed with Newman. Like him or not, he is staying. The real concern (or blessing) is that Jacque Reeves is a free agent. He was beaten early and often so don't expect much effort to keep him. The Cowboys could look to Aqib Talib(CB-Ka) who though not the fastest 40 time guy in the class. He has shown the athleticism and football speed needed to be a shutdown corner.

With the Cowboys having two picks so close in the first round. A little strategy comes in to play if both of these guys make it this deep in the draft. While Talib is certainly the better player of these two, if they take him and pass on Albert. Albert will most surely be taken by the Steelers at the next pick. I think the Cowboys would be better suited to take Albert at 22 and hope that Talib makes it the 6 picks to their second selection at 28. Even if Talib is gone there are several talented players at positions they could use. Wide receiver, defensive back, even runningback, if Marion Barber who is a restricted free agent is no longer a Cowboy by draft day.

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Washington Redskins Offseason

The 2008 Offseason for the Washington Redskins has already been action filled. Maybe it has been inaction filled. The 'Skins are the only team holding more interviews than the Falcons were, and at least in Washington's case you get the impression that they aren't really good fits for either side. Unlike Atlanta where you got the impression no one wanted that job.

So far we have heard the names Pete Carroll, Steve Mariuchi, Greg Williams, Al Saunders, Steve Spagnolo, Jim Mora jr., and Jim Fassel. Of all those options the only one that is really still out there is Fassel. I think the time has come for owner, Daniel Snyder, to realize that Joe Gibbs isn't coming back through that door. While I think Snyder needs a guy like Gibbs who's opinion comes with enough experience that he has to listen to it. A coach of that caliber isn't out there and if they are they don't have the emotional ties to the Redskins that Gibbs had, so they aren't about to deal with Snyder's lunacy. I don't really like Fassell but Snyder wont go with the Mike Tomlin, Mike McCarthy type guy, he needs a name in order to stroke his ego. So there you are Jim Fassell next coach of the mediocre 'Skins(trust me they will be mediocre under Fassell)

The most unfortunate thing about Snyder not opting to hand things over to Greg Williams or even the dark horse transition candidate Al Saunders. Is that they will lose a lot if not all of the emotional momentum that they had coming out of last season. It is hard to rally around as a team when the majority of your leadership was not around for the events that brought you together.

An area that needs to be addressed less for it's on the field importance and more to solidify the salary cap questions that the Redskins are facing will be quarterback. Jason Campbell is the man under center in the future. As nice a story as Todd Collins was at the end of the season, no one really believes he is going to supplant Campbell. He is however a free agent and is either going to demand a higher price than the 'Skins can really pay with their cap troubles or he may just say "I've shown what I can do" and leave to get a starting gig or at least a shot at one somewhere else. The third string QB in name and mentor in reality was Mark Brunell. He is a drain on the cap and is also old. That age was a prerequisite for a backup in Joe Gibbs mind but is likely going to be seen as huge negative by the next guy running the ship.

While the 'Skins defense was pretty reliable across the board, they were playing as an inspired unit. They were also being led by Greg Williams, both of those factors are gone next year. I will be interested to see how they do. They are in need at Defensive End but it isn't a must go first round type need.

On the otherside of the ball though, the questions start. They have spent big on some names and are solid in the #1wr spot with Santana Moss, but once you get past him and possibly Antwan Randle-el as a #2 the drop in ability is huge. Not only are Reche Caldwell and Keenan Mccardell probably not the best #3's they are likely gone anyway.

If they are looking for wideout they could be looking at Mario Manningham(WR-MICH) if he makes it that far or they could go with Malcom Kelly(WR-OKL) who is a little more likely to still be on the board at this point. While Manningham has the higher overall ranking amongst the experts, I like Kelly better. I really think Manningham might be a bust, he cerrtainly has playmaker ability but he is to small of frame. Kelly has him by 4 inches and 40 pounds at 6'4'' 219.

The biggest reason they might not end up going with a WR is that those two are going to get lots of attention from Philadelphia and Tampa Bay who are 19 and 20 to Washingtons #21(wierd coincidence that they end up with Sean Taylor's number in the draft) If those two WR are gone the 'Skins should look at the guy Tampa was debating over, Kentwan Balmer(DT-UNC). Balmer may get passed by the Bucs because Gruden isn't likely to pick up a guy who has had questions about putting in the work to live up to his potential. Daniel Snyder on the other hand is always willing to take a risk.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Offseason

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers offseason roadmap started shortly after the season with the extension of contracts for Head Coach Jon Gruden as well as Bruce Allen. They will continue to be blessed with the presence of Defensive Coordinator Genious Monte Kiffin.

If you saw the first uhhhhh final errrr ONLY post season game the Buccaneers were in this year you know, Ike Hilliard is old. Almost as old as Joey Galloway. Ok, settle down 50-50 bar nation, I am not saying he is done but if the guy who has to carry your receiving core can be removed from the game plan so easily. You need to address that before anything else.

I have mentioned in a few of my offseason breakdowns that I am not to impressed with the early talent at wide receiver in the draft. The Bucs aren't too early with the 20th pick, they could be looking at Mario Manningham(WR-MICH) if he makes it that far or they could go with Malcom Kelly(WR-OKL) who is a little more likely to still be on the board at this point. While Manningham has the higher overall ranking amongst the experts, I like Kelly better. I really think Manningham might be a bust, he cerrtainly has playmaker ability but he is to small of frame. Kelly has him by 4 inches and 40 pounds at 6'4'' 219.

If they are able to answer the receiver question before the draft, they could look to their defensive line needs. While Gaines Adams is certainly developing into the player they hoped for, he could use some support. Monte Kiffin is brilliant but even he can't turn crap into gold.

I love Kentwan Balmer(DT-UNC) but his chances of making it onto a team with Gruden and Kiffin are pretty slim. He has a reputation of not getting all he can out of his ability, based mostly on a perceived lack of effort. Some how I dont see Chucky taking on a guy who isn't willing to hustle. The only way he can make it with the Bucs will be if his interview at the combine convinces the Bucs that Balmer's recent increase in effort will be sustained. The other thing that just might help convince the Bucs is the fact that they would have to reach big time to fill a D-line hole if they aren't willing to take Balmer.






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NFL Teams Offseason

Here is a compilation of the offseason breakdowns I have done so far. Check out your team and let me know what you think they ought to do.

Note: These were all projected prior to Free Agency.

Miami Dolphins

St. Louis Rams

Atlanta Falcons

Oakland Raiders

Kansas City Chiefs

New York Jets

New England Patriots (from 49ers)

Baltimore Ravens

Cincinnati Bengals

New Orleans Saints

Buffalo Bills

Denver Broncos

Carolina Panthers

Chicago Bears

Detroit Lions

Arizona Cardinals

Minnesota Vikings

Houston Texans

Philadelphia Eagles

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Washington Redskins

Dallas Cowboys

Pittsburgh Steelers

Tennessee Titans

Seattle Seahawks

Jacksonville Jaguars

San Diego Chargers

Dallas Cowboys

San Francisco 49'ers

Green Bay Packers

New York Giants

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Miami Dolphins Offseason

Trade this pick, NOW. It doesn't even have to be that good fo a deal. With the talent evaluating skills of Bill Parcells and Jeff Ireland, you will make more out of several later picks than you can out of one early one.

Ok, Now that we have my opinion slightly clarified. Let's talk about what they need to do in either situation.

The whole complexion of the team has changed due to the fact that Bill Parcells was brought in to run the franchise. He promptly hired Jeff Ireland away from his director of talent evaluation with the Cowboys. They then announced the forgone conclusion that Cam Cameron would be leaving, and as soon as he was available they brought in former Dallas Cowboys offensive line coach Tony Sparano. With all this change it is easier to determine the plans for the future of Miami by looking to Dallas than it is looking back at Miami

If they stick with that #1 spot, they need to shore up their defensive front. With aging Joey Porter and Zach Thomas, they need to strengthen the defensive front in order to pull some focus off of those two. They still have the skill to play, but they can't be the guys getting doubled and focused on by the other teams blocking scheme.

The popular talk is to have them take Darren Mcfadden. I don't like this and I know Parcells wont do it. For starters they have some talent in the backfield already. If they can keep that talent on the field and out of the trainers room. ALso looking at Bill Parcells past drafting strategy, he clearly feels you can get good backs later on in the draft. Neither Julius Jones or Marion Barber were picked very early.

If the Dolphins are capable of getting deper in the draft through a trade they will be able to select multiple players throughout these positions of need. If not then they will take a defensive player. While Glann Dorsey(DT-LSU) is the bigger name , slightly than Chris Long(DE-VA). I think the Dolphins are more likely to turn to Long in the draft. He is a much nicer fit for the 3-4 defense that Parcells will likely have team running.

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St. Louis Rams Offseason

Though it has little to do with the on the field plans, I can hardly begin this without acknowledging the pasing of long time team owner Georgia Frontiere. I posted shortly after her passing so I wont re-hash it here.

The Rams have needs, not as many as a lot of teams, but you don't get the second pick in the draft without having some needs. The bright side is they are getting a better pick than they probably need only because the number of injuries they suffered caused them to lose more games than their talent probably dictates. In fairness to the situation though not all of those injuries were fluke. Old people get hurt, old people who play football get hurt often.

One of the areas where the Rams age was most pronounced was on the offensive line. When you are signing guys like Brandon Gorin and Todd Steussie off the street, you are in trouble. In fact let's just set that as the bar for your having a bad year on the offensive line. The Rams need to draft early on this side of the ball.

The other side of the trenches is not much stronger. When you starting defensive ends, combine for 3 sacks. That's all year folks. There are guys who pulled that many in a game. Hell, Patrick Kearney did it 3 different times this year. Obviously they need to shore up this spot. they also need to take some attention of their Linebackers who were underwhelming all year.

With thier needs they could take Jake Long (OT-Mich), or they could look to defense and go with Glenn Dorsey(DT-LSU) or Chris Long (DE-VA). If Miami is able to move the #1 pick then all three will be available. If Miami is still at #1 on draft day then one of those defensers will likely be gone. Either one that remains would be a good choice though and with this draft a lot deeper with offensive lineman as opposed to defense they could always wait til the second round to draft for the O-line.

Whatever the draft choices end up being you can expect Scott Linehan to be coaching for his job next season.

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Atlanta Falcons Offseason

The Atlanta Falcons will probably be the easiest review I do this offseason. They need a quarterback, and with thier number coming so early in the draft they will have their choice of the signal callers coming out this year. The scariest thing about this is that I believe they will take Brian Brohm(QB-L'Ville). I just don't think Brohm will end up being a starter in the NFL. I think Matt Ryan(QB-BC) will be a leader and a presence in the huddle. One huge thing in Ryan's favor, or more acurately. One thing going against Brohm is that you have to assume Bobby Petrino was singing Brohms praises for that whole 5 minutes he spent in Atlanta. I don't know this first hand but I am guessing that Petrino's opinion is about as valuable as Michael Vick's right about now.

The coaching situstion was recently settled with the hire of Jags Gopher to Jack del Rio defensive coordinator, Mike Smith. I am not sure about this hire. I like it from the media perception. I mean after the parade of candidates turning Arthur Blank down, all the high profile "Hot" hiring prospects were gone. At that point I think you can't go with a regular off the coaching carousel. By going with a guy like Smith they either make out like genuises or we all get what we are expecting and it's no harm no foul. I do have some doubt, beyond the fact he has no real name in the NFL. Several of his former players have said that Jack del Rio actually ran the defense. They also mentioned that he didn't always get along with players. I can't wait to see how him and always vocal, DeAngelo Hall mix with eachother.

In the later rounds the Falcons will need to address a line to protect their new QB. Between the injury to Wayne Gandy, which will likely lead to his retirment or ineffectiveness, and the fact that left tackle is not nearly as strong in free agency as left guard this year. They will likely go with a strong left tacke in the second round.

The Falcons need to be realistic, it isn't going to be pretty in the Georgia Dome anytime soon. A real bright spot is wide receiver with Joe Horn there as a clutch player, and even more so as a mentor. Along with the youth and talent of Roddy White, who I think could develop into a premier guy.

The running back situation isn't as strong as wide receiver, but I really think it could be. If the Falcons will just commit to Jerious Norwood I think he will develop along with the teams overall development and be ready to be a feature back as the team grows into contention. THis is actually a possibilty, while Mike Smith is defensive guy I am sure he noticed the run-first strategy in Jacksonville. He may be likely to copy that.

Oakland Raiders Offseason

I know this isn't going to work. I mean I have lived in California for quite a while and I know more Raider fans than anything else. However, it is my breath so I will waste it. "Raider fan-You are not going to win the superbowl in 2008, you are not going to make the superbowl, You wont get to the playoffs, you might want to start rooting for .500."

The raiders have problems everywhere. It starts at the top, I posted earlier today about Bat shit crazy Al Davis trying to talk Lane Kiffin out of 4 million. So first off they need to get a head coach. Right now the rumor mill has ground out Dennis Green as Al Davis' choice for successor. Sounds great but doesn't Denny get a choice. I mean he hasn't sunk so low has he. I would love to hear a reason he would take this job because I can't think of one. So we'll see who ends up in that r'ole(r'ole:Initially a typo but now an abbreviated form of RAT HOLE).

On to bigger problems, the NFL carries a 52-man roster. Of that 52-man total the Raiders are facing 20 guys going into free agency, not to mention losing Warren Sapp to retirment. That's about 40% folks. I can't really decide if this is terrible becuase the new coach will have such little continuity to work with, or if it is great because who really wants a bunch of guys who went 4-12 back from last year.

A couple of the key Free agency guys are:

Nnamdi Asomugha: Easily a top 5 corner in the NFL. So don't worry about him being gone, all that really needs to be determined is can they work out a deal or is it "oakland Raider fans meet your new Franchise Tag player, Nnamdi Asomugha.

Justin Fargas: Sign him. He isn't gonna break records but he is reliable and seems relatively happy on the Raiders. There is a lot of talk about the Raiders taking McFadden if he is still on the board at thier pick. I think they will but I tihnk it will be a mistake if they do. I don't think McFadden is a bust. Quite the opposite actually I'll be shocked if he doesn't work. However there are a lot of positions where they could improve a lot more than they would at running back by taking McFadden.

Josh McCown: He turned out to be a surprisingly servicable quarterback. I mean he is no Derek Anderson(I never thought I'd be using that line), but he could be a good back-up to Russel

So if by some miracle Al Davis doesn't go for the big name. Which is something he has always done in the past. They will take Chris Long(DE-VA) if he has lasted that long or they may reach a little for Vernon Gholston(DE-OSU). I seriously doubt they would take Jake Long(OT-Mich) so soon after the Robert Gallery bust. Though knowing Al's mentality he may take him just to spite people.

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