Cory Redding: Highest Paid DT in football (1 Viewer)

[Jason Wood]

OK, I realize the Lions had to pay up for Redding after deciding to franchise him. And I realize that the market (thanks to the new CBA and revenue sharing splits) by itself calls for inflated contracts relative to prior standards, but today's news that Cory Redding is now the highest paid defensive tackle in the sport just seems OFF, don't you think?

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2938519

I mean, Redding's numbers were impressive on the surface last year, but the Lions were in the bottom third of the league last year in rushing first downs allowed, rushing TDs allowed, and were middle of the pack in yards per rush allowed (4.1 yards). That's despite having Rogers and Redding "anchoring" the middle. So seeing as how I haven't seen many Lions games lately, Lions fans (and NFC North aficionados), was this money well spent?

 

[Rounders]

That sound you hear is Tommie Harris's wallet getting a lot fatter.....He's going to be paid very nicely very soon.

 

[grind]

I can't stop laughing at the Lions. This just points out why they are the worst franchise in all of professional sport.

 

[Jason Wood]

I can't stop laughing at the Lions. This just points out why they are the worst franchise in all of professional sport.

I love Marinelli's optimism, but does he HONESTLY think this will be the most dominating defensive interior in the NFL as he was attributed today in the AP story?

 

[Jene Bramel]

Cory Redding is an underrated player. And, not unlike the Freeney deal, this has a lot to do with Redding's value to the Lions' defensive scheme.

The Lions will continue to run a whole bunch of Tampa-2 and having a stud undertackle is every bit as important as having a great edge rusher (or two) and an athletic WLB who can cover. Keith Millard then Warren Sapp are the prototypes here, and, as was already mentioned, Tommie Harris is going to get paid too. It's also the reason why a project with stud potential like Amobi Okoye was drafted so highly.

These guys aren't meant to be run stuffers as much as disruptive at the LOS. The revolving door at MLB/SLB/SS and NT (Cody and Rogers out for long stretches) had a lot to do with the relatively poor run defense. The Lions are still a piece or two away, but this defense isn't as bad as the stats look on paper.

 

[Jene Bramel]

I can't stop laughing at the Lions. This just points out why they are the worst franchise in all of professional sport.

I love Marinelli's optimism, but does he HONESTLY think this will be the most dominating defensive interior in the NFL as he was attributed today in the AP story?

Most dominating is a stretch. But if Shaun Rogers is healthy and motivated, this tandem is going to be very good at what they're asked to do.

 

[Bizkiteer]

I can't stop laughing at the Lions. This just points out why they are the worst franchise in all of professional sport.

I love Marinelli's optimism, but does he HONESTLY think this will be the most dominating defensive interior in the NFL as he was attributed today in the AP story?

Most dominating is a stretch. But if Shaun Rogers is healthy and motivated, this tandem is going to be very good at what they're asked to do.

= All of Jene's posts here!When Jene talks, people listen...

 

[grind]

I can't stop laughing at the Lions. This just points out why they are the worst franchise in all of professional sport.

I love Marinelli's optimism, but does he HONESTLY think this will be the most dominating defensive interior in the NFL as he was attributed today in the AP story?

Most dominating is a stretch. But if Shaun Rogers is healthy and motivated, this tandem is going to be very good at what they're asked to do.

Rogers was motivated up until he signed his last contract. Wasn't that two years plus now? What makes you think all of a sudden he is going to be motivated again? As for Redding, yes he is starting material. No question about that. Just don't understand how he is even sniffing the money of the highest paid DT in the NFL.This reminds me of the old Tiger’s team/management. They had an awful team with a few average players. Of course, because the team was so bad, those average players appeared much, much better then they were in comparison to the rest of the team. What did the Tigers do? Signed those average player to HUGE contracts. To those Detroit fans, Bobby Higginson should ring a bell. Don’t forget Dean Palmer either.

 

[Bob Henry]

Jene is absolutely right in talking about the talent of Redding and Rogers, especially with regards to the scheme and what they are asked to do.

Unfortunately, the problem with the Lions is and will continue to be that they hitch themselves to mediocre players with exorbitant price tags because they manage their team and salary cap reactively rather than proactively like the Eagles, Patriots and other teams with bright front office people who know the business and the football side of things, too.

Exhibit A: Jeff Backus.

The Lions tagged him and then signed him to a long-term contract. Great, they kept a player they drafted and committed to them to ensure continuity on the OL, right? Well, not really. Backus, at best, is a middle of the road left tackle. He's certainly no Orlando Pace, Jon Ogden or even Jammal Brown for that matter. Yet he'll get paid handsomely as if he were a top 5 or top 10 left tackle. Problem. You can't pay mediocre guys top 10 money without shorting yourself somewhere else on the team.

Exhibit B: Cory Redding

Redding is a developing tackle who is a nice player. He's above average as an undertackle and considering how well he played once he finally focused on his current position, he's worth keeping and investing in to keep him a Lion. However, the Lions are now paying Shaun Rogers big jack, Redding is now at the top of the heap and they also overpaid for Kalimba Edwards (who is a one trick pony and an inconsistent one at that). They also signed DeWayne White to a fairly nice contract. Now, they have four high priced DL and perhaps only two of which are proven or worth what they're paid.

As if my cynicism for the Lions isn't already showing through, I won't even get into how much money they'll have invested into the WR corps... but at least they have some serious talent there and, God willing, Calvin Johnson will stay healthy and not go the way of Charles Rogers.

The Lions, I believe, are an ascending team right now. Most of that is coming from the coaching staff. Rod Marinelli might not be the best coach in the division, much less the NFL, but he is doing what needed to be done a loooong time ago. Identify the players that can be relied upon and who will buy into his program, then work on building a team, coach up that talent and see what will happen.. now, as Lions fans, we hope that they show enough this year to keep Marinelli around and keep building this thing.. otherwise, it's back to the drawing board _again_... with a new staff, new schemes and starting all of the rhetoric all over again.

Such is the life of a Lions fan....

 

[Captain Blowhard]

The key is the guaranteed money part ($16 mill). Plus the contract is front-loaded.

Both of these things indicate to me the contract is a decent one for the Lions given today's market.

And by next year? It's a bargain.

Seriously, can we stop the oohhing and ahhhinng over every new contract? The NFL is a money behemoth that grows exponentially each and every year. What "ooohhh" contract were you posting about two years ago? Bet that contract seems like chump change now, eh?

Relax. This is an excellent signing by the Lions for one of the great young tackles in the game.

People would have complained had the Lions not signed him. Either way it was going to be the wrong move according to most of you.

 

[Captain Blowhard]

I can't stop laughing at the Lions. This just points out why they are the worst franchise in all of professional sport.

I love Marinelli's optimism, but does he HONESTLY think this will be the most dominating defensive interior in the NFL as he was attributed today in the AP story?

It will be a damn good line. Shaun Rogers is healthy + White (free agent) + Francis (2nd round pick) +Redding + year 2 of the system means this unit will be much, much improved over last year. Night and day.I'm not predicting great things for the Lions, on the other hand those who say the defense is going to be a laughingstock (and thus the Lions again) are probably in for a bit of a shock. If you're in that boat, look smart later by right now at least modifying your stance a bit The other thing I love is that it's going to force the Bears to pay a LOT of dough to Harris. Those negotiations are going to be fun to watch. I bet Harris has already spoken to his agent today, maybe even several times

 

[Bob Henry]

The key is the guaranteed money part ($16 mill). Plus the contract is front-loaded. Both of these things indicate to me the contract is a decent one for the Lions given today's market. And by next year? It's a bargain. Seriously, can we stop the oohhing and ahhhinng over every new contract? The NFL is a money behemoth that grows exponentially each and every year. What "ooohhh" contract were you posting about two years ago? Bet that contract seems like chump change now, eh?Relax. This is an excellent signing by the Lions for one of the great young tackles in the game.People would have complained had the Lions not signed him. Either way it was going to be the wrong move according to most of you.

Good points, Captain.. I'm personally not upset by the signing itself, just the method by which the Lions "manage" their team and cap situation reactively. I agree completely that if Redding walked, it would be chaos as well.. and far worse than having him here at this price. Redding is one of the reason the fans should have some optimism with this team. He's not one of the malcontents. On the contract itself, I haven't seen or looked to close at the details and how it's weighted, but if it's front loaded then I tend to agree with your call -- it could be a huge contract today and a cap friendly deal in 3 years. We'll see. I certainly hope so though.

 

[Jene Bramel]

I can't stop laughing at the Lions. This just points out why they are the worst franchise in all of professional sport.

I love Marinelli's optimism, but does he HONESTLY think this will be the most dominating defensive interior in the NFL as he was attributed today in the AP story?

Most dominating is a stretch. But if Shaun Rogers is healthy and motivated, this tandem is going to be very good at what they're asked to do.

Rogers was motivated up until he signed his last contract. Wasn't that two years plus now? What makes you think all of a sudden he is going to be motivated again? As for Redding, yes he is starting material. No question about that. Just don't understand how he is even sniffing the money of the highest paid DT in the NFL.

I'm not going to argue the point about paying big dollars to players perceived to be merely above average. I'm not very excited about the Bengals considering paying Justin Smith the going rate for a decent DE. But that's the key -- it's the going rate. 4-3 ends and 4-3 undertackles are relatively scarce. With the exponential increases in the salary cap, these players are going to get paid. The pertinent question is, which is the poorer outcome for your team? Tying up top dollar in a not-so-sexy player or finding an alternative that won't be as good at a very important starting position. Redding is sniffing the money because he was in the right place at the right time. Rogers has had knee and shoulder issues and is overweight. So I'll grant that the "if" is a pretty big if, and I didn't claim he'd be either healthy or motivated. But the first six game stretch of last season had Rogers in pretty good form. The run defense allowed YPC stats of 3.5, 2.6, 2.2, 3.9, 4.5 and 4.0 while Rogers was in the lineup against some pretty solid rush attacks. There isn't much question in my mind that a healthy Rogers is a very good DT.

 

[Bob Henry]

I can't stop laughing at the Lions. This just points out why they are the worst franchise in all of professional sport.

I love Marinelli's optimism, but does he HONESTLY think this will be the most dominating defensive interior in the NFL as he was attributed today in the AP story?

Most dominating is a stretch. But if Shaun Rogers is healthy and motivated, this tandem is going to be very good at what they're asked to do.

Rogers was motivated up until he signed his last contract. Wasn't that two years plus now? What makes you think all of a sudden he is going to be motivated again? As for Redding, yes he is starting material. No question about that. Just don't understand how he is even sniffing the money of the highest paid DT in the NFL.

I'm not going to argue the point about paying big dollars to players perceived to be merely above average. I'm not very excited about the Bengals considering paying Justin Smith the going rate for a decent DE. But that's the key -- it's the going rate. 4-3 ends and 4-3 undertackles are relatively scarce. With the exponential increases in the salary cap, these players are going to get paid. The pertinent question is, which is the poorer outcome for your team? Tying up top dollar in a not-so-sexy player or finding an alternative that won't be as good at a very important starting position. Redding is sniffing the money because he was in the right place at the right time. Rogers has had knee and shoulder issues and is overweight. So I'll grant that the "if" is a pretty big if, and I didn't claim he'd be either healthy or motivated. But the first six game stretch of last season had Rogers in pretty good form. The run defense allowed YPC stats of 3.5, 2.6, 2.2, 3.9, 4.5 and 4.0 while Rogers was in the lineup against some pretty solid rush attacks. There isn't much question in my mind that a healthy Rogers is a very good DT.

No question about your point, JB... A healthy, motivated Shaun Rogers is a very very bad thing for the Lions opponents. He's a lot to handle for one and sometimes two blockers. If Rogers can stay healthy, Redding's job is a bit easier and he can get to the QB. Now, this is where it gets interesting... If both of those things happen, then White and Edwards become more successful.The rookie (Ikaika-Francis) will help the pass rush, too. I think the Lions run defense remains vulnerable, especially outside the tackles.. If White is up to being a true 3-down DE, then the Lions front seven will be ok, if not surprising.If Rogers doesn't stay healthy, the Lions LB corps will get exposed F-A-S-T. They still need a big, physical MLB, but so do a lot of teams.

 

[Anthony Borbely]

The contract has $16 million in guaranteed money, with $13 million of it over the first 3 years. A total of $20 million over the first 3 years, including salary, so it seems like a decent deal to me. It has only $7 million in base salaries over the first 3 years, with the balance over the last 4, so they aren't on the hook all that bad. It seems to be a cap friendly deal to me.

I like this signing a lot, for the reasons Jene listed above. He is a Marinelli player too, and he does have talent. The price seems in line with his production after he moved to tackle.

 

[mightyeskimo]

ABSOLUTELY STUPID!!! As a Lions fan I'm even more ashamed of MM then I was before we tagged Redding. Total waste of money.

 

[grind]

Those who say anyone would have complained if Redding walked need to realize that wasn't possible. He was franchised. He couldn't leave. Sure he has "potential" and has shown that he could be very, very good. What is wrong with keeping the franchise tag on him for this year to make sure of what they are getting with that top $$$$. It wasn't as if they were losing another key player by using their franchise tag on him. It was either him or no one. Yes, you run the risk of him complaining and not playing hard. That said, you would see his true colors and he probably isn't good long term anyhow. If he accepts the tag and gets the job done while improving on last season, hand him the money next year. This seems like a panic mode that didn't need to be made. If they had done this with Backus last year, maybe they would have seen the light and understood that Backus is a middle of the road LT and probably replaceable to some extent. Definitely not worth the cash they gave him.

On a side note, not sure how "cap friendly" this is. That $16 mill gauranteed is prorated over the life of the contract for cap purposes. He doesn't live up to his "potential", they're on the hook for six year or however long it is. It just seems that if the money was available this year, it would be there next year (plus a little). They had the tag to use this year and didn't need to make a permanent decision on "potential" at this time. One more year in the system would have shown a lot more then just "potential".

 

[pinequick]

OK, I realize the Lions had to pay up for Redding after deciding to franchise him. And I realize that the market (thanks to the new CBA and revenue sharing splits) by itself calls for inflated contracts relative to prior standards, but today's news that Cory Redding is now the highest paid defensive tackle in the sport just seems OFF, don't you think?

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2938519

I mean, Redding's numbers were impressive on the surface last year, but the Lions were in the bottom third of the league last year in rushing first downs allowed, rushing TDs allowed, and were middle of the pack in yards per rush allowed (4.1 yards). That's despite having Rogers and Redding "anchoring" the middle. So seeing as how I haven't seen many Lions games lately, Lions fans (and NFC North aficionados), was this money well spent?

Isn't this all just part of a new round of contracts? The first few are going to look out of whack until the "big names" get their deals re-done? At that point, won't Redding's deal look more "middle of the road"?

 

[JMJ]

The salary cap this season was the largest increase in NFL history. Teams have more money then ever to spend as there are over 10 teams with over $10M in cap space still at this point. There is also another 5 teams or so just below the $10M mark and countless others between $6M and $9M.

Once the cap rises again next season, 50% of the teams in the league will have double-digit millions of dollars to spend. Players contracts are going to start getting out of control and significantly higher then anything we've ever seen before. Look at the contracts all these offensive lineman signed this year, look at the H-U-G-E contracts that Nate Clements and Dwight Freeney just signed, look at this freaking contract for Cory Redding, etc, etc.

Contract amounts are going to soar in the coming years. Just get used to it and stop letting it surprise you.

 

[grind]

The salary cap this season was the largest increase in NFL history. Teams have more money then ever to spend as there are over 10 teams with over $10M in cap space still at this point. There is also another 5 teams or so just below the $10M mark and countless others between $6M and $9M.Once the cap rises again next season, 50% of the teams in the league will have double-digit millions of dollars to spend. Players contracts are going to start getting out of control and significantly higher then anything we've ever seen before. Look at the contracts all these offensive lineman signed this year, look at the H-U-G-E contracts that Nate Clements and Dwight Freeney just signed, look at this freaking contract for Cory Redding, etc, etc.Contract amounts are going to soar in the coming years. Just get used to it and stop letting it surprise you.

I agree and I have no issue with Freeney's contract as an example. He is proven and not "potential". If you have a great player, pay him. If you have "potential", prolong it as long as possible until he becomes proven or bust.

 

[ILoveMyLions]

The key is the guaranteed money part ($16 mill). Plus the contract is front-loaded. Both of these things indicate to me the contract is a decent one for the Lions given today's market. And by next year? It's a bargain. Seriously, can we stop the oohhing and ahhhinng over every new contract? The NFL is a money behemoth that grows exponentially each and every year. What "ooohhh" contract were you posting about two years ago? Bet that contract seems like chump change now, eh?Relax. This is an excellent signing by the Lions for one of the great young tackles in the game.People would have complained had the Lions not signed him. Either way it was going to be the wrong move according to most of you.

I agree 100%. By next year, this will look much better.

 

[Jason Wood]

OK, I realize the Lions had to pay up for Redding after deciding to franchise him. And I realize that the market (thanks to the new CBA and revenue sharing splits) by itself calls for inflated contracts relative to prior standards, but today's news that Cory Redding is now the highest paid defensive tackle in the sport just seems OFF, don't you think?

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2938519

I mean, Redding's numbers were impressive on the surface last year, but the Lions were in the bottom third of the league last year in rushing first downs allowed, rushing TDs allowed, and were middle of the pack in yards per rush allowed (4.1 yards). That's despite having Rogers and Redding "anchoring" the middle. So seeing as how I haven't seen many Lions games lately, Lions fans (and NFC North aficionados), was this money well spent?

Isn't this all just part of a new round of contracts? The first few are going to look out of whack until the "big names" get their deals re-done? At that point, won't Redding's deal look more "middle of the road"?

Definitely think you have something there, but stepping back and thinking objectively, I can't say I ever think we'll look back and think Cory Redding should be "the highest paid DT in league history" even if it was for a season.

 

[ILoveMyLions]

The numbers can be skewed to appear something more than it is. I bet the contract is backloaded and cap friendly...

 

[Anthony Borbely]

The numbers can be skewed to appear something more than it is. I bet the contract is backloaded and cap friendly...

From what I have read, the bonuses totaled $16 million, $13 million of which is due over the first 3 seasons. He will get a total of $20 million over the first 3 seasons, including the $13 million. Over the last 4 seasons, he will get another $3 million in bonuses, presumed to be roster bonuses, plus $26 million in salary. I have to assume after year 3, it will be reworked. So it's basically a 3 year deal worth $20 million, which is not unreasonable in the market. I don't know how the last 4 seasons of salary are broken down, but for the sake of argument, I am assuming they are pretty evenly spread. The Lions are usually pretty good at structuring cap friendly deals that won't hamstring them forever. On the surface, this deal appears to be pretty cap friendly.

 

[Captain Blowhard]

OK, I realize the Lions had to pay up for Redding after deciding to franchise him. And I realize that the market (thanks to the new CBA and revenue sharing splits) by itself calls for inflated contracts relative to prior standards, but today's news that Cory Redding is now the highest paid defensive tackle in the sport just seems OFF, don't you think?

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2938519

I mean, Redding's numbers were impressive on the surface last year, but the Lions were in the bottom third of the league last year in rushing first downs allowed, rushing TDs allowed, and were middle of the pack in yards per rush allowed (4.1 yards). That's despite having Rogers and Redding "anchoring" the middle. So seeing as how I haven't seen many Lions games lately, Lions fans (and NFC North aficionados), was this money well spent?

Isn't this all just part of a new round of contracts? The first few are going to look out of whack until the "big names" get their deals re-done? At that point, won't Redding's deal look more "middle of the road"?

Definitely think you have something there, but stepping back and thinking objectively, I can't say I ever think we'll look back and think Cory Redding should be "the highest paid DT in league history" even if it was for a season.

The question is whether he's the highest paid defensive tackle in salary and bonus money this year or if he's the highest paid based on this overall contract, which a couple of posters have already pointed out contains a lot of funny money that really isn't real or will be realized.

 

[Bob Magaw]

i agree with a few points in this thread...

this contract is spread out over a few years, & in a few years it may seem like a bargain in retrospect, at the trailing end of recent inflated contract cycle...

as to at times soft run defense, marinelli carried the TB dungy/kiffin cover two blue print to DET... they like to keep back seven in zone coverage & it is predicated on generating pressure from the 4 DL... but the book on them over the years (even when they were at their best when sapp & rice were in their prime) was that they could be wore down by a physical, smashmouth run attack... needing LBs that were fast & could cover their designated zones (the DBs have coverage zones, too, which don't extend to LB coverage zones), the fact that they were often undersized & resembled at times 3 WLBs, was deemed an acceptable tradeoff... but it could cause matchup problems against big, powerful, athletic offenses (that probably could be said about a lot of defenses, & fortunately there aren't a lot of offenses like that)...

redding isn't sapp in his prime, but he could be very good. he doesn't have anybody that corresponds to rice's talent at DE on the roster, though dewayne white could be underrated & have some upside... it would be interesting to know if the running yardage they gave up was up the gut (& as was suggested, was rodgers out part of that time), or was it against the DEs... also, other than ernie sims, they may not have any other outstanding LBs on the roster, which has to hurt run D...

bob made a good point about best organizations (NE & PHI were cited) being proactive & locking up core talent early... of course if it were easy everybody would do it... there are about 30 out of 32 teams that probably aren't as adept at this strategic advantage, so DET fans aren't the only ones with cause for periodic despair...

in some cases, organizations may even have good football people & financial people within the organization, but may be dysfunctional in how they communicate & parse the decision making... NE & PHI are great examples where they not only have talent in the different parts of the organization... but they work extremely well together... the coaching & scouting department are identifying the right players, & front office is finding creative ways to keep more of them...

i think this is a good signing... in hindsight they maybe could have extended him earlier more cheaply... but its not clear they knew what they had, this time last year...

 

[BigSteelThrill]

I just wanted to point out...

That Cory Redding has been a Defensive End.

They moved him to UT and the entire defense responded to it.

The first game he moved to UT, was their first win and the guy playing next to him (James Hall) had 3.5 sacks that game.

Im sure there is plenty of cause-and-effect scenarios, but this one cant be overlooked.

He also recorded all 8 of his sacks as a tackle, after the switch, in just 11 games.

Last year he played very well and if he hits the market, many teams are going to look at the 6-4 295 lb DE/DT that registered 47 tackles and 8 sacks

for the >Lions< as very very valuable. As a free agent he would have likely gotten even more.

 

[grind]

I just wanted to point out...

That Cory Redding has been a Defensive End.

They moved him to UT and the entire defense responded to it.

The first game he moved to UT, was their first win and the guy playing next to him (James Hall) had 3.5 sacks that game.

Im sure there is plenty of cause-and-effect scenarios, but this one cant be overlooked.

He also recorded all 8 of his sacks as a tackle, after the switch, in just 11 games.

Last year he played very well and if he hits the market, many teams are going to look at the 6-4 295 lb DE/DT that registered 47 tackles and 8 sacks

for the >Lions< as very very valuable. As a free agent he would have likely gotten even more.

Redding couldn't hit the market. He was franchised and in no way could leave the Lions franchise. I think people are missing this point. How long has Redding been in the league? I'm assuming at least three years if not four, since his contract is up. Tell me about the years before last and how he did in those years? Considering he really, really didn't start to emerge until last year and there was no way he could leave the Lions, I just don't understand the rush to make him the highest paid DT in football. If he performed well this year, make him the highest paid DT in football during next offseason if that is their ultimate goal.

 

[Anthony Borbely]

Tell me about the years before last and how he did in those years?

I agree with a previous post mentioning how the good teams lock up their core guys. If a good team had made this move, people would be gushing over the forward thinking of the great minds. Since it's the Lions, it's skepticism. Before last year, he played DE, and he is not a prototypical DE. They moved him to the under tackle spot and he was a dominant presence. How many other players would play well if they were playing a position not suited to their skill set?They made the right move locking him up now. Next season, it would have been even more costly. In three years, this will be a middle of the road DT contract. People forget to look ahead when it comes to contract value. They get bigger and bigger. Todays overpay is tomorrows bargain.

 

[Jene Bramel]

How long has Redding been in the league? I'm assuming at least three years if not four, since his contract is up. Tell me about the years before last and how he did in those years? Considering he really, really didn't start to emerge until last year and there was no way he could leave the Lions, I just don't understand the rush to make him the highest paid DT in football. If he performed well this year, make him the highest paid DT in football during next offseason if that is their ultimate goal.

Last season was his fourth in the league. If by emerge you mean generate a pass rush, then I agree.But, as Tony said above, there wasn't a clear "stat" role for Redding in the previous Detroit defensive schemes. He was actually fairly well regarded by the Lions as a rotational end/tackle tweener. The Lions played him an awful lot at the strong side end, and, while he's got some explosion off the line, Redding isn't going to be a successful pass rusher off the edge. He "emerged" after he was put into a role that fits his skill set well.Again, the "highest paid DT" is being made more of than it should be. This is not a horrible deal in the current market. No one is saying that Redding is the best NFL DT in the league. But his talent is desirable in this scheme. Like Freeney's deal, this one is going to look very good if Redding continues to play well this year. Would you rather try to sign him next year after Tommie Harris gets extended for a bigger deal than this?

 

[grind]

How long has Redding been in the league? I'm assuming at least three years if not four, since his contract is up. Tell me about the years before last and how he did in those years? Considering he really, really didn't start to emerge until last year and there was no way he could leave the Lions, I just don't understand the rush to make him the highest paid DT in football. If he performed well this year, make him the highest paid DT in football during next offseason if that is their ultimate goal.

Last season was his fourth in the league. If by emerge you mean generate a pass rush, then I agree.But, as Tony said above, there wasn't a clear "stat" role for Redding in the previous Detroit defensive schemes. He was actually fairly well regarded by the Lions as a rotational end/tackle tweener. The Lions played him an awful lot at the strong side end, and, while he's got some explosion off the line, Redding isn't going to be a successful pass rusher off the edge. He "emerged" after he was put into a role that fits his skill set well.

Again, the "highest paid DT" is being made more of than it should be. This is not a horrible deal in the current market. No one is saying that Redding is the best NFL DT in the league. But his talent is desirable in this scheme. Like Freeney's deal, this one is going to look very good if Redding continues to play well this year. Would you rather try to sign him next year after Tommie Harris gets extended for a bigger deal than this?

Yes, IF Redding has the same impact that Freeney has for the Colts defense, then this is a great deal. I don’t argue that. In the Lions position though, why not wait a year and see that the IF goes away and he DOES provide that impact over the course of a full season on top of what he did last year. At that point, pay the man. Make him the highest paid DT in football next year. They were in position to keep Redding and make sure they know exactly what they are investing in. At this point, they’ve invested heavily in an “IF” player with “potential”.Everyone is point out how other teams (i.e. Philly) lock up their players. I agree that they do pick the players they want long term and lock them up with nice contracts. The big difference though is that the players Philly locks up are already proven and pro-bowl players (i.e. Shephard and Dawkins were both Pro Bowl players when Philly locked them up long term). They know what they are signing long term. This thread alone points out the uncertainty with Redding as there are a lot of “IF’s” and “Potential” words in most ya’ll posts.

 

[Anthony Borbely]

The question I have seen a lot in this thread is "why not wait a year?"

The answer is the price will be much higher next year.

If the Lions believe in Redding, then they made the right decision to lock him up now.

 

[Jason Wood]

Thanks for all the excellent back and forth on this one guys.

I was thinking about this from my lens as an Eagles fan, and it's akin (conceptually) to when the Eagles threw huge money at Jon Runyan. A lot of people wondered why we would "pay a right tackle" money that, at the time, was left tackle money, but obviously in retrospect it was fair market value for that season AND it was a strategic move because it showed the free agents were willing to come to Philly and play after years of the Birds being a net exporter of talent.

 

[massraider]

Those who say anyone would have complained if Redding walked need to realize that wasn't possible. He was franchised. He couldn't leave. Sure he has "potential" and has shown that he could be very, very good. What is wrong with keeping the franchise tag on him for this year to make sure of what they are getting with that top $$$$.

Because there are no guarantees that once he has played under the franchise tag, that he'll want to come back. Or that they could sign him. If Redding rips off 12 sacks this year, and he was a free agent next year, his price would skyrocket, and the Lions would probably lose him. There's a lot wrong with the franchise tag, actually. It upsets the player, and only really works well for both parties when the player and team hammer out a deal. Like this case, for instance.Now, the Lions could franchise him again next year. Assuming they have no other players they might want to franchsie, and assuming they want to keep a big cap number for Redding. By signing to a long term deal, the Lions can make it s cap friendly as they want. Under the franchise tag, there's no hiding bonus dollars. It's one number on the cap, the average of the top 5 players at his position. And there's no telling what that number will be.

On a side note, not sure how "cap friendly" this is. That $16 mill gauranteed is prorated over the life of the contract for cap purposes. He doesn't live up to his "potential", they're on the hook for six year or however long it is.

No they aren't. If they decide in 2 years he isn't worth the money, they can cut him loose, and accelerate the cap hit, or spread it over two years. Either way, with only $16 mill guaranteed, I don't see some big cap hit in the future. You are talking about a worst-case scenario, where Redding is useless in a year.Others have brought it up, but some are still ignoring the explosion of the salary cap. Everyone has cap room now, and everyone has to use it. OMG, Redding is the highest paid DT in the NFL!!!!!!! That will ast about as long as it takes for the next DT to get a new contract. Redding is the highest paid DT in the league because of timing, and he will move to the side when the NEXT free agent gets his. Is he overpaid? Probably, based on his production thus far. But if the Lions get the same results he gave them last season, it'll be a bargain.

 

[grind]

Those who say anyone would have complained if Redding walked need to realize that wasn't possible. He was franchised. He couldn't leave. Sure he has "potential" and has shown that he could be very, very good. What is wrong with keeping the franchise tag on him for this year to make sure of what they are getting with that top $$$$.

Because there are no guarantees that once he has played under the franchise tag, that he'll want to come back. Or that they could sign him. If Redding rips off 12 sacks this year, and he was a free agent next year, his price would skyrocket, and the Lions would probably lose him. There's a lot wrong with the franchise tag, actually. It upsets the player, and only really works well for both parties when the player and team hammer out a deal. Like this case, for instance.Now, the Lions could franchise him again next year. Assuming they have no other players they might want to franchsie, and assuming they want to keep a big cap number for Redding. By signing to a long term deal, the Lions can make it s cap friendly as they want. Under the franchise tag, there's no hiding bonus dollars. It's one number on the cap, the average of the top 5 players at his position. And there's no telling what that number will be.

On a side note, not sure how "cap friendly" this is. That $16 mill gauranteed is prorated over the life of the contract for cap purposes. He doesn't live up to his "potential", they're on the hook for six year or however long it is.

No they aren't. If they decide in 2 years he isn't worth the money, they can cut him loose, and accelerate the cap hit, or spread it over two years. Either way, with only $16 mill guaranteed, I don't see some big cap hit in the future. You are talking about a worst-case scenario, where Redding is useless in a year.Others have brought it up, but some are still ignoring the explosion of the salary cap. Everyone has cap room now, and everyone has to use it. OMG, Redding is the highest paid DT in the NFL!!!!!!! That will ast about as long as it takes for the next DT to get a new contract. Redding is the highest paid DT in the league because of timing, and he will move to the side when the NEXT free agent gets his. Is he overpaid? Probably, based on his production thus far. But if the Lions get the same results he gave them last season, it'll be a bargain.

The only thing I do like about this signing is the fact that it pretty much assures the Johnson will be in camp on time. If they are willing to make Redding the highest paid DT in football based on his last 8 to 11 games last year, I don't see how they can't make Johnson one of the top 10 highest paid WR's in football. I don't think Johnson would hold out being paid top ten $$$$'s at his position as a rookie. They have officially "set the bar" with Reddings signing.I also take exception to the risk of Redding not being happy with the franchise tag. That would be the ultimate test as to the motivation of the guy and his personal character. If he is going to b**** about being franchised one year and be paid top five $$$ at his position for one year, not sure he is worth signing long term character wise. Now if they franchise him two, three, four years in a row, I don't think the team is using the tag in the way it is ment to be used.If they cut him loose after two years and elect to take the cap hit at once, that will be a one year, nine million dollar cap hit for a player not on your team. Not sure how efficient and "Eagle/Patriot-like" that is.And as I have said, if he rips off 12 sacks this year after coming on last year, pay the man. As you say, the cap will be even bigger next year as it was this year, so the extra $$$$$ spent figuring out exactly what you are buying is well worth it. I guess my personality is such that I will pay $10 for a higher brand, tried and tested hand tool over the $6 new, tool shop, hand tool from walmart.

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

The Lions.

all u need to know

 

[Da Guru]

Say what you will but Jeff Backus would have got that contract from a number of teams. The Lions could not afford to let their left tackle go.

I am not a big Backus fan but they had to keep him.

 

[Anthony Borbely]

Say what you will but Jeff Backus would have got that contract from a number of teams. The Lions could not afford to let their left tackle go. I am not a big Backus fan but they had to keep him.

.....I mean GREAT post. I have no doubt that Redding would have EASILY gotten this contract on the open market too.

 

[Synthesizer]

Similar to the Tigers overpaying some guys a few years ago (Magglio, Todd Jones), when you've been THE worst team in the league for the past 10 years, it's not like guys are coming here with images of a championship in their mind. The Lions must overpay in order to bring/keep guys here. It is what it is until the Lions make a few playoffs.

 

[grind]

Similar to the Tigers overpaying some guys a few years ago (Magglio, Todd Jones), when you've been THE worst team in the league for the past 10 years, it's not like guys are coming here with images of a championship in their mind. The Lions must overpay in order to bring/keep guys here. It is what it is until the Lions make a few playoffs.

Apples and oranges. What team did Redding play for last year? What team did Jones and Ordonez play for before becoming a Tiger? Redding can’t leave due to the franchise tag. If you want to compare this to the Tigers, the better comparison is what they did years ago signing Bobby Higginson to a $10 mill annually contract (probably still paying him $15 mill or so a year).Like I said, there is some positive. This pretty much assures that CJ will get a great contract and most likely be in camp on time. The Lions are showing that they will pay the $$$$$$ for any player that shows at least a little promise.

 

[Futz]

It's a little too early in his career to be getting paid like this but it could end up being a bargain in the end. That's the NFL for you now a days though. Mid level players get paid for potential in hopes of the team cashing in on that potential. It's a roll of the dice to a certain degree for the Leos but it makes sense to lock up a pretty darn good young DT before he hits his prime.

 

[Canuckleheads]

The salary cap this season was the largest increase in NFL history. Teams have more money then ever to spend as there are over 10 teams with over $10M in cap space still at this point. There is also another 5 teams or so just below the $10M mark and countless others between $6M and $9M.Once the cap rises again next season, 50% of the teams in the league will have double-digit millions of dollars to spend. Players contracts are going to start getting out of control and significantly higher then anything we've ever seen before. Look at the contracts all these offensive lineman signed this year, look at the H-U-G-E contracts that Nate Clements and Dwight Freeney just signed, look at this freaking contract for Cory Redding, etc, etc.Contract amounts are going to soar in the coming years. Just get used to it and stop letting it surprise you.

This is right on target. By the end of next season you'll see some RIDICULOUS contracts being signed. Will Smith is the next one we will all call "jawdropping". The list of sick contract is just beginning.

 

[massraider]

Look at what average guards got paid this offseason. The cap and salaries are rising, and expectations need to adjust accordingly.

I have more of a problem with Freeney's deal than Redding's.

 

[Synthesizer]

Similar to the Tigers overpaying some guys a few years ago (Magglio, Todd Jones), when you've been THE worst team in the league for the past 10 years, it's not like guys are coming here with images of a championship in their mind. The Lions must overpay in order to bring/keep guys here. It is what it is until the Lions make a few playoffs.

Apples and oranges. What team did Redding play for last year? What team did Jones and Ordonez play for before becoming a Tiger? Redding can’t leave due to the franchise tag. If you want to compare this to the Tigers, the better comparison is what they did years ago signing Bobby Higginson to a $10 mill annually contract (probably still paying him $15 mill or so a year).

I don't agree that it's apples to oranges (still a terrible team overpaying a good-but-not-elite player to make them happy) but I do like the Higginson comparison.

 

[grind]

Look at what average guards got paid this offseason. The cap and salaries are rising, and expectations need to adjust accordingly.

I have more of a problem with Freeney's deal than Redding's.

Say what? How can you have a problem with Freeney's deal and not Redding's? Please enlighten me.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

I just wanted to point out...

That Cory Redding has been a Defensive End.

They moved him to UT and the entire defense responded to it.

The first game he moved to UT, was their first win and the guy playing next to him (James Hall) had 3.5 sacks that game.

Im sure there is plenty of cause-and-effect scenarios, but this one cant be overlooked.

He also recorded all 8 of his sacks as a tackle, after the switch, in just 11 games.

Last year he played very well and if he hits the market, many teams are going to look at the 6-4 295 lb DE/DT that registered 47 tackles and 8 sacks

for the >Lions< as very very valuable. As a free agent he would have likely gotten even more.

Redding couldn't hit the market. He was franchised and in no way could leave the Lions franchise. I think people are missing this point. How long has Redding been in the league? I'm assuming at least three years if not four, since his contract is up. Tell me about the years before last and how he did in those years? Considering he really, really didn't start to emerge until last year and there was no way he could leave the Lions, I just don't understand the rush to make him the highest paid DT in football. If he performed well this year, make him the highest paid DT in football during next offseason if that is their ultimate goal.

This year he could have, yet the team itself said he was worth 7 million a year by applying the franchise tag and thus removing his ability to hit the market. And next year? Its gonna go up each year obviously.

And when you franchise a player you cannot use it again on another player. Thus you pigeon hole your options with future free agents if you cant get these type of deals completed. You also have a hard time working your cap (from a future perspective) if you dont have multiple years on the deal that can be accounted for. And we havent even discussed the players options of not playing for 10 weeks, which screws a team when it comes to winning.

So again, his open market value is higher (much so) then what they signed him for.