Even though I really like Sanders, and he means a lot to the Colts run defense, but isn't the amount of money they're paying him too much for a part time player? Hell, ever since he came into the league he's missed a LOT of games. He's a runt that just so happens to be very physical when he does play. He isn't able to stay on the field because of his size coupled with his style of play. I'm thinking he was a sell high after his defensive player of the year award.
Uh, did you consider that Sanders value is most "high" with the Colts, based on the defensive system they run?And that he would be less valuable to other teams, as the systems they run wouldn't be able to integrate Sanders strengths and limit his weaknesses?Also did you consider that given the salary cap era, that the safety position is one that has become, in many situations, devalued over time in terms of cap allotment that teams are willing to commit to hence are more readily replaceable? ( i.e. along with kicker, full back, linebacker, blocking tight end and running back) Safety is also one of the few positions on the field that is a "slideback" role. If you have a corner that is getting old or one who has physical elements that aren't suited for cornerback, you can plug him in at safety. If you have a nickel linebacker that primarily spies the tight end or a mobile QB, you can also try to jam him in at safety. A WR that can't do anything else is probably done. A RB that can't do anything else is done. No other positions easily flow in or out. Sometimes a blocking TE can play offensive line. Sometimes a defensive end can play linebacker or a linebacker in reverse can add weight and play the line, but it's not common. I can trade for Bob Sanders, who might or might not fit my system, or I can 1) Draft one. I can probably find a servicable one later in the draft. It's not like QB or LT where I need one from the first round.2) Find one from free agency. Plenty get let loose on the market year after year. 3) Shift a cornerback who is long in the tooth but still can play, either on my existing roster or from FAIndividual players can change the complexion of your defense. Bruschi with the Patriots. Trottier with the Iggles. Offerdahl with the old Dolphins. Charles Haley when the 49ers lost him. Deion Sanders. Derrick Brooks. There are players when you put them in, the defense is a different kind of beast, and when you take that one player out, it's a different kind of prey. Sanders makes that Colts D go. It's a different defense when hes healthy and making plays. It is, however, not an elite defense. It's intentionally resource starved on that side of the ball to be a complimentary unit for the powerful Colts offense.