2008 Starting RBs most in danger of losing job in '09 (1 Viewer)

[Tornacl]

Now that the fantasy football season is over for most of us, its time to start looking at next season. Which starting RBs from this past season are most in danger of losing their starting job next season? Either their team will bring in a free agent (such as DWard), will draft one of the best RBs in the draft, or because there's a good backup who'll be ready to take the reins. Also, if they are a free agent and you believe they'll be signing elsewhere.

Here are a few that I believe will not be starting with their current team next year:

1) Jamal Lewis - new coach, new management, and a RB with a lot of wear and tear don't usually mix too well. I wouldn't be surprised to see the Browns draft a RB on the first day. Draft the home-town guy - Beanie Wells?

2) Larry Johnson - He's worn out his welcome and wants out of KC. Is Jamaal Charles the answer, or do the Chiefs draft a big name?

3) Julius Jones/Maurice Morris - Not sure who to call the starter, but with a new coach taking over next year, I wouldn't be surprised to see them draft a RB in the second, but I think they're more likely to take Crabtree in the first if he's still there.

4) Denver Broncos - I think the new coach will bring in a big-name back, as that's all they need offensively.

5) Maroney/Sammy Morris - Maroney has been too fragile, could see the Patriots going RB in the first especially if they're really concerned about Brady being back.

6) Cedric Benson - who knows what the Bengals will do, but 3.5 ypc isn't usually enough to get a RB re-signed.

7)

I see these guys as being on the bubble, but will probably at least be the week 1 starter:

1) Willie Parker - I think that he's got another year as the starter, as Mendenhall didn't get a chance to prove anything.

2) Joseph Addai - He had a forgettable year, but will remain the starter.

3) Ryan Grant - GB will be moving away from the zone blocking scheme, Grant will get another chance to start.

These are the teams that I believe are pretty set:

Detroit - so many other holes to fill.

St. Louis - SJax will be fine after the injuries heal

Oakland

Jacksonville - MJD will shine

San Francisco

Buffalo

Washington - Portis will be the starter for another year or two, but wouldn't be surprised if they take a RB.

New Orleans - Thomas will be the starter along with Bush

Houston - Slaton will have a big year

San Diego -

New York Jets

Chicago

Dallas

Philly

Minnesota

Atlanta

Miami

Baltimore - I think it will be a heavy RBBC, just like this year. Not sure whether McGahee will still be around though.

Carolina

New York Giants - will re-sign Jacobs

Tennessee

 

[undercover]

Looks like a good list....LJ will be playing/starting somewhere next year unless he's suspended.

 

[Kleck]

3) Ryan Grant - GB will be moving away from the zone blocking scheme, Grant will get another chance to start.

During McCarthy's Wednesday press conference, he was asked about the ZBS system: "We'll look to continue to try to improve that and we'll tailor it to our players, because at the end of the day, it's really about the players," McCarthy said Wednesday. "We're creative, we're aggressive with our scheme development."

 

[Boone22]

While I believe Thomas Jones is OK for another year with the Jets, I have to think they may address the RB position in the draft. I don't know if they believe Leon Washington is an every down back and I could easily see them drafting a bruising back to pair with Washington in 2010 and beyond.

 

[Brewzers]

I think Arizona is a glaring miss on this list. I see alot of potential RB job openings on your set list such as Jax and Hou, maybe not #1 RBs but both of those teams will need another RB.

 

[doubletrouble]

St Louis, not a #1 but SJ has gotten hurt 2 yrs in a row.....

 

[Jerry Lawler]

Definitely Arizona, and there will undoubtedly be some surprises in the draft. I also think Houston will acquire RB depth and move more toward a timeshare next season. Slaton's size, the hits he was taking as part of the ZBS, and Kubiak's comments about Slaton wearing down during the season argue for a change in Houston's RB situation.

 

[Tornacl]

I think Arizona is a glaring miss on this list. I see alot of potential RB job openings on your set list such as Jax and Hou, maybe not #1 RBs but both of those teams will need another RB.

Yeah, that was definitely a miss. At the beginning of the season, I'd have thought Hightower would surely be the starter next year, but right now I'd expect a new face next year. I could really see them going after Ward.

 

[Tornacl]

While I believe Thomas Jones is OK for another year with the Jets, I have to think they may address the RB position in the draft. I don't know if they believe Leon Washington is an every down back and I could easily see them drafting a bruising back to pair with Washington in 2010 and beyond.

I think they'll draft a RB, but I wouldn't expect it to be on the first day. They'll definitely need to address the QB position first - don't think the Patriots will let them get Cassell.

 

[dniwer]

Would Denver go for someone like D.Ward?

 

[massraider]

Detroit. So many other needs, but I don't think Kevin Jones is safe.

 

[dniwer]

Jones is gone, Smith is there now. Detroit needs to focus on their lines first.

 

[JPeso]

Detroit. So many other needs, but I don't think Kevin Jones is safe.

Kevin Smith is safe.

 

[eefflrat]

I also think Houston will acquire RB depth and move more toward a timeshare next season. Slaton's size, the hits he was taking as part of the ZBS, and Kubiak's comments about Slaton wearing down during the season argue for a change in Houston's RB situation.

I disagree with this assessment of Slaton...See here http://forums.footballguys.com/forum/index...howtopic=450916

 

[CrossEyed]

With a year to watch, learn, and heal, I expect Mendenhall to earn the starting spot with the Steelers in '09.

 

[gonzobill5]

I think Arizona is a glaring miss on this list. I see alot of potential RB job openings on your set list such as Jax and Hou, maybe not #1 RBs but both of those teams will need another RB.

Yeah, that was definitely a miss. At the beginning of the season, I'd have thought Hightower would surely be the starter next year, but right now I'd expect a new face next year. I could really see them going after Ward.

Just a gut feeling, but I think Arrington ends up with the job here. Reminds me a little bit of the DeAngelo situation, but that is an overstatement.

 

[bcr8f]

Detroit. So many other needs, but I don't think Kevin Jones is safe.

Kevin Smith is safe.

I think the incoming GM and HC will have to decide that.

 

[UnknownCoach]

There isnt anybody in Denver I'd call the 2008 starter.

Edge should be cut and Hightower was never an answer in Arizona.

McFadden will likely take over for Fargas as the starter next year.

If Mendenhall comes back fully enough from his injury in time for a good camp, he should take over Parker's job.

Those are the most likely. There arent a lot of exciteing FAs (Benson being the most interesting) and I dont expect more than 2 or 3 rookies to start next season.

I dont think the Chiefs cut LJ. If he agrees to a new contract he could be traded but I'm expecting him to be a chief.

 

[UnknownCoach]

I think Arizona is a glaring miss on this list. I see alot of potential RB job openings on your set list such as Jax and Hou, maybe not #1 RBs but both of those teams will need another RB.

Yeah, that was definitely a miss. At the beginning of the season, I'd have thought Hightower would surely be the starter next year, but right now I'd expect a new face next year. I could really see them going after Ward.

Just a gut feeling, but I think Arrington ends up with the job here. Reminds me a little bit of the DeAngelo situation, but that is an overstatement.

While I agree Arrington has more potential than Hightower, Williams always played well. Fantasy fools overlooked Williams because of the coaching decision to not lean on him a workhorse... even though his frame and college history pointed to him being able to handle it. Arrington is being overlooked because he just hasnt played that well.

 

[David Yudkin]

5) Maroney/Sammy Morris - Maroney has been too fragile, could see the Patriots going RB in the first especially if they're really concerned about Brady being back.

The Pats ranked 6th in the league in rushing yards, 4th in rushing TD, and 7th in the league in ypc. All that with a pot porri of running backs. Maroney is supposed to be healthy and back for training camp. NE has so many other glaring needs and may have to invest a boatload of money to franchise Cassel, leaving them cash strapped to fix their other issues. They still are in dire need of DBs and LBs and there is talk of upgrading on either DL or OL. They have some guys on both lines scheduled to be free agents after next season and they may not be able to re-sign them. Given all that, I'm guessing a first round RB is not a likely outcome for the Pats. They will likely sign a veteran on the cheap (Jordan again, Kevin Jones, etc.).

 

[ChuckLiddell]

Anyone think there is a good chance Michael Bush will be traded away from Oakland? Seems like they showcased him in week 17, and with so many needs, can they really afford to hold him as a 3rd RB when they might be able to get picks for him?

He could be a great fit in Denver or maybe Arizona IMO.

 

[JohnnyU]

Great thread !!

 

[UnknownCoach]

Anyone think there is a good chance Michael Bush will be traded away from Oakland? Seems like they showcased him in week 17, and with so many needs, can they really afford to hold him as a 3rd RB when they might be able to get picks for him?He could be a great fit in Denver or maybe Arizona IMO.

A chance but not a probability. I think Oakland would go for a second round pick but they wont deal to Denver. That leaves Arizona and a couple other teams as the only candidates.

 

[Mikey16x]

I actually see Jax drafting a RB, they need depth because dollars and cents wise... I don't expect Fred Taylor to be there next year. On a surprise move I can also see the Chargers drafting a RB, not in the first round... but maybe the 2nd day.. Their going to need a replacement for L.T eventually, he's a great player... but he is human.

 

[Cookiemonster]

Anyone think there is a good chance Michael Bush will be traded away from Oakland? Seems like they showcased him in week 17, and with so many needs, can they really afford to hold him as a 3rd RB when they might be able to get picks for him?He could be a great fit in Denver or maybe Arizona IMO.

Poor man's B.Jacobs. I think Bush just earned himself into a timeshare in Oakland. He will likely be paired with whichever speed back is healthy (McFadden the likely #1). Fargas had a good '07, and IMO was the best Raider RB in '06, but he's been so fragile & meets contact head-on, at full-speed. He's not a guy that is built to last in the NFL.

 

[runner06]

Those are the most likely. There arent a lot of exciteing FAs (Benson being the most interesting) and I dont expect more than 2 or 3 rookies to start next season.

I may be wrong, but Derrick Ward and Darren Sproles seem more intriguing RBs to me. I think Brandon Jacobs is a free agent too, but I imagine the Giants will resign him.

 

[runner06]

2) Joseph Addai - He had a forgettable year, but will remain the starter.

I think there is a decent chance that the Colts will draft a RB between rounds 2 and 4 in hopes of having them split time with Addai. The Colts don't have a ton of other needs other then much better DTs. I don't think the Colts will give up on their rookie OGs after only one season. Dominic Rhodes could be back next season, but he's a free agent at the end of this season and will turn 30 before this year's playoffs end. Whatever the Colts end up doing, I believe Addai will remain the primary back for them in 2009.

 

[Cookiemonster]

2) Joseph Addai - He had a forgettable year, but will remain the starter.

I think there is a decent chance that the Colts will draft a RB between rounds 2 and 4 in hopes of having them split time with Addai. The Colts don't have a ton of other needs other then much better DTs. I don't think the Colts will give up on their rookie OGs after only one season. Dominic Rhodes could be back next season, but he's a free agent at the end of this season and will turn 30 before this year's playoffs end. Whatever the Colts end up doing, I believe Addai will remain the primary back for them in 2009.

I think Hart could step right in for Rhodes. That said, I agree with you and think they should upgrade their RB depth and possibly add a contender to the starter.

 

[MAC_32]

1) Jamal Lewis - new coach, new management, and a RB with a lot of wear and tear don't usually mix too well. I wouldn't be surprised to see the Browns draft a RB on the first day. Draft the home-town guy - Beanie Wells?

Not unless he falls to round 2.

2) Larry Johnson - He's worn out his welcome and wants out of KC. Is Jamaal Charles the answer, or do the Chiefs draft a big name?

Charles is a change of pace back at best, Kolby Smith and Dantrell Savage are 3rd stringers. Assuming LJ is elsewhere next year someone will be brought it to split with Charles.

3) Julius Jones/Maurice Morris - Not sure who to call the starter, but with a new coach taking over next year, I wouldn't be surprised to see them draft a RB in the second, but I think they're more likely to take Crabtree in the first if he's still there.

Player to watch, Justin Forsett. They definitely butchered their upgrade RB strategy in 2008, something will liekly be done.

5) Maroney/Sammy Morris - Maroney has been too fragile, could see the Patriots going RB in the first especially if they're really concerned about Brady being back.

Sammy Morris and Kevin Faulk are both on the wrong side of 30, Lamont Jordan is younger than those two but his back may be older, who knows how New ENgland truly feels about Maroney, and Lawfirm is a committee back at best. LJ makes sense here, regardless I think someone's going to be brought in.

6) Cedric Benson - who knows what the Bengals will do, but 3.5 ypc isn't usually enough to get a RB re-signed.

If it weren't the Bungles I'd say he's little more than a stopgap, but given some of the decisions I've seen Cincy make in the past I would not be at all surprised if he is retained and nothing is done to upgrade their RB corps.

1) Willie Parker - I think that he's got another year as the starter, as Mendenhall didn't get a chance to prove anything.

I didn't like anything I saw from Mendenhall last year, unless he shows vast improvement I'd expect FWP to be the head guy, Moore be the passing downs back, Russell be the short yardage guy, and Mendenhall gets whatever's left unless he shows improvement. I'd expect a new makeup in 2010, but not next year.

2) Joseph Addai - He had a forgettable year, but will remain the starter.

I think he is headed toward a full blown committee, I've been trying to sell him in a dyno for a few months and will continue to do so until he's moved.

Houston - Slaton will have a big year

I don't think Kubiak believes Slaton can carry the full load, I mean he kept having him share touches with obvious downgrades like Green and Moats throughout the year. A between the tackles bruiser is a real possibility.

New York Jets

Thomas Jones will be 31.

Baltimore - I think it will be a heavy RBBC, just like this year. Not sure whether McGahee will still be around though.

McGahee is finished, another potential New England candidate?

 

[Boston]

5) Maroney/Sammy Morris - Maroney has been too fragile, could see the Patriots going RB in the first especially if they're really concerned about Brady being back.

The Pats ranked 6th in the league in rushing yards, 4th in rushing TD, and 7th in the league in ypc. All that with a pot porri of running backs. Maroney is supposed to be healthy and back for training camp. NE has so many other glaring needs and may have to invest a boatload of money to franchise Cassel, leaving them cash strapped to fix their other issues. They still are in dire need of DBs and LBs and there is talk of upgrading on either DL or OL. They have some guys on both lines scheduled to be free agents after next season and they may not be able to re-sign them. Given all that, I'm guessing a first round RB is not a likely outcome for the Pats. They will likely sign a veteran on the cheap (Jordan again, Kevin Jones, etc.).

Agreed that the Pats aren't going to use a #1 on a RB with their needs on D. That being said I fully expect them to bring in another RB. Whether it's a mid-round RB, a free agent that is affordable or a guy like LJ looking to revive his career they need another quality back to go with Morris and Faulk (and potentially Maroney although I could see him in another uniform next year).I'd like to see the Pats bring in a RB that is explosive and can make some big plays. While I really like Faulk and Morris (and Jordan when he was healthy) the Pats could use a RB that's a threat to go the the distance every time he touches the ball. That's an aspect their offense is currently missing. I'd love to see them take a run at Sproles (his return abilities would be a great addition as well) although I really don't have a clue what type of contract he'll be looking at this offseason.

 

[Nemesis]

funny.......not ONE mention of Tampa Bay and their situation.

I would think they aren't satisfied with their stable and would look to add a FA/draft pick to compete with Cadillac/EGraham/Dunn.

 

[Ariakis]

Graham will be back and healthy. Depending on Caddy's outlook and how they feel about another year from Dunn they may focus on another need. Then again, they could be a prime candidate for a RB.

I think the Eagles upgrade RB depth.

I'm not ready to give up on Hightower. He had one game with 20 carries and went for 100 yards. His OL is subpar and he just wasn't ready. Give him another offseason coming from a small school and sure he may have to beat out competition or wait for said RB to get hurt but I suspect he's a great buy low.

I could see the Pats standing pat with Maroney back they can focus on defense. I suspect Jordan is their starter to start next season.

Will Sproles go on to start? Perhaps we can also discuss which RB's leave their current teams to start elsewhere.

McGahee stands out to me ... he'll only be 28 next season and needs a fresh start.

 

[DropKick]

funny.......not ONE mention of Tampa Bay and their situation.I would think they aren't satisfied with their stable and would look to add a FA/draft pick to compete with Cadillac/EGraham/Dunn.

My thoughts exactly. Dunn is 34. Graham is 29. Caddy has two major injuries.

 

[David Yudkin]

I could see the Pats standing pat with Maroney back they can focus on defense. I suspect Jordan is their starter to start next season.

Jordan was on a one year deal, making him a free agent. Pats will likely want him back . . . but there will probably be other suitors as well.

 

[David Yudkin]

5) Maroney/Sammy Morris - Maroney has been too fragile, could see the Patriots going RB in the first especially if they're really concerned about Brady being back.

The Pats ranked 6th in the league in rushing yards, 4th in rushing TD, and 7th in the league in ypc. All that with a pot porri of running backs. Maroney is supposed to be healthy and back for training camp. NE has so many other glaring needs and may have to invest a boatload of money to franchise Cassel, leaving them cash strapped to fix their other issues. They still are in dire need of DBs and LBs and there is talk of upgrading on either DL or OL. They have some guys on both lines scheduled to be free agents after next season and they may not be able to re-sign them. Given all that, I'm guessing a first round RB is not a likely outcome for the Pats. They will likely sign a veteran on the cheap (Jordan again, Kevin Jones, etc.).

Agreed that the Pats aren't going to use a #1 on a RB with their needs on D. That being said I fully expect them to bring in another RB. Whether it's a mid-round RB, a free agent that is affordable or a guy like LJ looking to revive his career they need another quality back to go with Morris and Faulk (and potentially Maroney although I could see him in another uniform next year).I'd like to see the Pats bring in a RB that is explosive and can make some big plays. While I really like Faulk and Morris (and Jordan when he was healthy) the Pats could use a RB that's a threat to go the the distance every time he touches the ball. That's an aspect their offense is currently missing. I'd love to see them take a run at Sproles (his return abilities would be a great addition as well) although I really don't have a clue what type of contract he'll be looking at this offseason.

Maroney can go the distance on any given play, but the Pats have done a terrible job running plays that better fit Maroney's skill set. The plays they have been generally have been North and South only, straight ahead smashmouth football. Maroney is decent in space, off the edge, that would better fit an off the edge or one cut scheme. IMO, he's also shown that he can be a dangerous threat on dump off passes, yet they hardly use him in that role. IMO, if they lineup up Welker and Moss on the same side and rolled Maroney over underneath he could clean up on dump off passes to that side. I have yet to see NE even attempt this.So I agree that Maroney has a lot of shortcomings, but I do think that the Pats could have done better scheming for Maroney.

 

[Ariakis]

Do you think Maroney should be in Faulk's role then?

Do you think Jordan will be starting next season either for the Pats or someone else?

 

[Banger]

funny.......not ONE mention of Tampa Bay and their situation.I would think they aren't satisfied with their stable and would look to add a FA/draft pick to compete with Cadillac/EGraham/Dunn.

Absolutely. That was one of the first teams I thought of.

 

[stevegamer]

Seattle & Tampa should be looking for help, although if Tampa's backs who are hurt (Caddy & Graham) come back okay, they may not be looking. Seahawks have issues.

 

[UnknownCoach]

I have said that Tampa Bay should look to draft a young stud but that doesnt make them one of the most likely teams to have a new starter in 09. Unless they spend their first round pick and possibly even if they do that, I dont expect the rookie to come in and immediately start over Graham/Caddy/whatever not so big name FA they may add. Gruden has a history of going with Vets at RB with the exception of Caddy who was a top 5 pick. I expect the same, the FA pool isnt exciteing, and a trade for somelike like LJ/Fargas/M Bush is unlikely.

 

[zamboni]

With Indy making a quick exit, I think team brass will be looking harder at the RB position considering how much Manning had to shoulder the offensive burden this year.

Addai will likely continue to be a big part of the running game, but IMO could very well face stiffer competition than Rhodes.

 

[Boston]

5) Maroney/Sammy Morris - Maroney has been too fragile, could see the Patriots going RB in the first especially if they're really concerned about Brady being back.

The Pats ranked 6th in the league in rushing yards, 4th in rushing TD, and 7th in the league in ypc. All that with a pot porri of running backs. Maroney is supposed to be healthy and back for training camp. NE has so many other glaring needs and may have to invest a boatload of money to franchise Cassel, leaving them cash strapped to fix their other issues. They still are in dire need of DBs and LBs and there is talk of upgrading on either DL or OL. They have some guys on both lines scheduled to be free agents after next season and they may not be able to re-sign them. Given all that, I'm guessing a first round RB is not a likely outcome for the Pats. They will likely sign a veteran on the cheap (Jordan again, Kevin Jones, etc.).

Agreed that the Pats aren't going to use a #1 on a RB with their needs on D. That being said I fully expect them to bring in another RB. Whether it's a mid-round RB, a free agent that is affordable or a guy like LJ looking to revive his career they need another quality back to go with Morris and Faulk (and potentially Maroney although I could see him in another uniform next year).I'd like to see the Pats bring in a RB that is explosive and can make some big plays. While I really like Faulk and Morris (and Jordan when he was healthy) the Pats could use a RB that's a threat to go the the distance every time he touches the ball. That's an aspect their offense is currently missing. I'd love to see them take a run at Sproles (his return abilities would be a great addition as well) although I really don't have a clue what type of contract he'll be looking at this offseason.

Maroney can go the distance on any given play, but the Pats have done a terrible job running plays that better fit Maroney's skill set. The plays they have been generally have been North and South only, straight ahead smashmouth football. Maroney is decent in space, off the edge, that would better fit an off the edge or one cut scheme. IMO, he's also shown that he can be a dangerous threat on dump off passes, yet they hardly use him in that role. IMO, if they lineup up Welker and Moss on the same side and rolled Maroney over underneath he could clean up on dump off passes to that side. I have yet to see NE even attempt this.So I agree that Maroney has a lot of shortcomings, but I do think that the Pats could have done better scheming for Maroney.

We have always been in agreement about how the Pats use Maroney. They use him like Dillon which is a role that doesn't fit his skills. If they do change how they use him than I do agree that he can be more effective. Yet, the fact the Pats have had him for three years and have not done this (and it appears so obvious) is somewhat of a mystery. One other thing with Maroney which is a huge negative is his inability to stay healthy. He's either hurt or dinged all the time and due to that the Pats just can't trust him. There's no way they can feel comfortable about him ever being a legit #1. It will be interesting to see what happens here as the Pats have some holes on D to fill and there's a big free agent class on the team next year. RB probably won't be a big priority but I do expect a new body to be brought in to complement their current stable.

 

[Boston]

Do you think Maroney should be in Faulk's role then?Do you think Jordan will be starting next season either for the Pats or someone else?

The only RB who should be in Faulk's role is Faulk. He's invaluable to the Pats. He can run, catch and block at a high level and can literally be used in any situation. Until he hits the wall (and at his age it could be coming although there have been no signs of this) he'll remain in this role with the Pats as he is a huge favorite of BB.As for Jordan I don't see him starting for the Pats but I wouldn't be surprised if he's part of their RBBC (especially if the Pats need to keep both Cassel and Brady on the books) or on another team. He played well for the Pats in his limited time and if his health is up to snuff and he's looking for low money he could be with them next year. Yet, I don't see them thinking he can be their workhorse next year.

 

[UnknownCoach]

Seattle & Tampa should be looking for help, although if Tampa's backs who are hurt (Caddy & Graham) come back okay, they may not be looking. Seahawks have issues.

I posted earlier about Tampa Bay, now Seattle.Seattle could definately upgrade but... Their top draft pick looks out of consideration considering the pool and Seattle's other needs. Round 2 or 3 is possible but will that guy start right away?Jones is still under contract. I doubt he'll be cut. There just isnt much in the FA pool right now that makes me think Jones will lose the job. Could definately happen but I wont bet on it. If Morris comes back, he's a bigger threat to Jones than most other current FAs. Maybe a couple of surprisenly good veterans will get cut but its too early to predict that.With the coaching change, I think Seattle has a very good shot of haveing a new starter, but its not like talking about Denver or Arizona. Jones is serviceable for another year. Its not like Oakland or Pittsburg either where there are future stars on the current depth chart.

 

[David Yudkin]

5) Maroney/Sammy Morris - Maroney has been too fragile, could see the Patriots going RB in the first especially if they're really concerned about Brady being back.

The Pats ranked 6th in the league in rushing yards, 4th in rushing TD, and 7th in the league in ypc. All that with a pot porri of running backs. Maroney is supposed to be healthy and back for training camp. NE has so many other glaring needs and may have to invest a boatload of money to franchise Cassel, leaving them cash strapped to fix their other issues. They still are in dire need of DBs and LBs and there is talk of upgrading on either DL or OL. They have some guys on both lines scheduled to be free agents after next season and they may not be able to re-sign them. Given all that, I'm guessing a first round RB is not a likely outcome for the Pats. They will likely sign a veteran on the cheap (Jordan again, Kevin Jones, etc.).

Agreed that the Pats aren't going to use a #1 on a RB with their needs on D. That being said I fully expect them to bring in another RB. Whether it's a mid-round RB, a free agent that is affordable or a guy like LJ looking to revive his career they need another quality back to go with Morris and Faulk (and potentially Maroney although I could see him in another uniform next year).I'd like to see the Pats bring in a RB that is explosive and can make some big plays. While I really like Faulk and Morris (and Jordan when he was healthy) the Pats could use a RB that's a threat to go the the distance every time he touches the ball. That's an aspect their offense is currently missing. I'd love to see them take a run at Sproles (his return abilities would be a great addition as well) although I really don't have a clue what type of contract he'll be looking at this offseason.

Maroney can go the distance on any given play, but the Pats have done a terrible job running plays that better fit Maroney's skill set. The plays they have been generally have been North and South only, straight ahead smashmouth football. Maroney is decent in space, off the edge, that would better fit an off the edge or one cut scheme. IMO, he's also shown that he can be a dangerous threat on dump off passes, yet they hardly use him in that role. IMO, if they lineup up Welker and Moss on the same side and rolled Maroney over underneath he could clean up on dump off passes to that side. I have yet to see NE even attempt this.So I agree that Maroney has a lot of shortcomings, but I do think that the Pats could have done better scheming for Maroney.

We have always been in agreement about how the Pats use Maroney. They use him like Dillon which is a role that doesn't fit his skills. If they do change how they use him than I do agree that he can be more effective. Yet, the fact the Pats have had him for three years and have not done this (and it appears so obvious) is somewhat of a mystery. One other thing with Maroney which is a huge negative is his inability to stay healthy. He's either hurt or dinged all the time and due to that the Pats just can't trust him. There's no way they can feel comfortable about him ever being a legit #1. It will be interesting to see what happens here as the Pats have some holes on D to fill and there's a big free agent class on the team next year. RB probably won't be a big priority but I do expect a new body to be brought in to complement their current stable.

If Maroney has been dinged from the same injury over and over again, I suppose if they could get that repaired than maybe his health issues would be somewhat overstated. I know he's had shoulder issues, but I don't know if they were the same shoulder and whether they've been related. I also believe I remember him having hamstring issues that kept him out a few games. And of course his "mystery issues" from this year which the team made sound like it was his shoulder acting up again. I wouldn't project him top move mountains, but as a role player in a RBBC he could be all right for NE next year.

 

[JohnnyU]

If Maroney has been dinged from the same injury over and over again, I suppose if they could get that repaired than maybe his health issues would be somewhat overstated. I know he's had shoulder issues, but I don't know if they were the same shoulder and whether they've been related. I also believe I remember him having hamstring issues that kept him out a few games. And of course his "mystery issues" from this year which the team made sound like it was his shoulder acting up again. I wouldn't project him top move mountains, but as a role player in a RBBC he could be all right for NE next year.

Maroney's not a FA until 2011, but I can't think of another player that needs a change of venue more than Maroney, and of course he needs to get healthy and stay that way for awhile.

 

[bluesclues]

Do the Saints stay with Pierre and Bush as their 1-2 punch?

Or do they draft another back early in the draft to compete also?

 

[Michael Fox Fan]

I could see the Pats standing pat with Maroney back they can focus on defense. I suspect Jordan is their starter to start next season.

Jordan was on a one year deal, making him a free agent. Pats will likely want him back . . . but there will probably be other suitors as well.

For a RB who has never been that productive and is already 30 years old? Really?

 

[TankRizzo]

St Louis, not a #1 but SJ has gotten hurt 2 yrs in a row.....

Yeah, I think he's going to have some competition in the very near future.

 

[David Yudkin]

I could see the Pats standing pat with Maroney back they can focus on defense. I suspect Jordan is their starter to start next season.

Jordan was on a one year deal, making him a free agent. Pats will likely want him back . . . but there will probably be other suitors as well.

For a RB who has never been that productive and is already 30 years old? Really?

Kevin Faulk, Correll Buckhalter, Sammy Morris, Jordan, and Thomas Jones all had ypcs of 4.5 or better and were all 30 or older. Jordan should draw some interest from other teams (likely not a long term deal obviously). He played this year for $850,000. He did fairly well when he was playing (injuries derailed him much of the year). If someone else offered him more, do you think he would say no thank you?

 

[saintfool]

I could see the Pats standing pat with Maroney back they can focus on defense. I suspect Jordan is their starter to start next season.

Jordan was on a one year deal, making him a free agent. Pats will likely want him back . . . but there will probably be other suitors as well.

For a RB who has never been that productive and is already 30 years old? Really?

Kevin Faulk, Correll Buckhalter, Sammy Morris, Jordan, and Thomas Jones all had ypcs of 4.5 or better and were all 30 or older. Jordan should draw some interest from other teams (likely not a long term deal obviously). He played this year for $850,000. He did fairly well when he was playing (injuries derailed him much of the year). If someone else offered him more, do you think he would say no thank you?

i would think that benjarvus green-ellis has a shot too. he's played well given the few opportunities (5 tds) to get consistent carries.