Honestly, do yall really think Chesta Taylor (1 Viewer)

[Big Score]

04/09 13:26 Vikings: Smith will be welcomed back

THE NEWS

Running back Onterrio Smith will be welcomed back to the Vikings after a one-year suspension for violating the NFL's substance-abuse policy, according to team owner Zygi Wilf. "The way this coaching staff responds to players, this would be the right environment for him to move his career forward," Wilf told the St. Paul Pioneer Press.

With SOD seemingly back in the RB mix, how does this factor into Chester being the man?

That is a bit misleading. The actual article from pioneer press.

Smith update: As is, Vikings offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell said he is comfortable with his depth at running back.

"If we had to go to battle tomorrow, we'd be ready," Bevell said, mentioning starter Chester Taylor, Mewelde Moore, Ciatrick Fason and Adimchinobe Echemandu.

But Vikings owner Zygi Wilf remained confident that the Vikings could bring back another player: Onterrio Smith.

Currently fulfilling a yearlong suspension for violating the league's substance abuse policy, Smith is eligible for reinstatement next month, and Wilf said the Vikings could be inclined to give him another opportunity.

"The way this coaching staff responds to players, this would be the right environment for him to move his career forward," Wilf said. "But all that's subject to his reinstatement."

Wilf also said it would be important for the Vikings to feel comfortable with Smith, both mentally and physically, before inviting him back to the team.

Smith has more career touchdowns (nine) than Moore (four) and Taylor (seven).

http://www.twincities.com/mld/twincities/sports/14298686.htm

Thanks reg.I only found the little snippet and have to admit when first reading it my eyes went

The whole unedited article makes more sense.

 

[pinequick]

Look, do you have anything more than an attitude to back this up? Like maybe, how many other starting running backs in the NFL make LESS than CT this season?  That might be a place for you to start showing off your massive football intellect.

Years of actually paying attention to the NFL and knowing the CBA and salary cap in and out?

I'll take that as a "no" then. . .The guy asked a good question--not for some holier-than-thou "guess you don't know NFL contracts" schtick.

This is getting a little silly.Try rereading thread, comprehending it's content, then speak to it - don't react to what you think is going on.

Crib notes in case you lack time...

T.U.B. poses a question suggesting Chester Taylor is not the #1 in Minny or is in Minny's plans to be the #1.

diesel (and others) have pined that his contract does not pay him like a backup.

Based on T.U.B.'s commentary, it is clear he is not familiar with how contracts in the NFL work.

diesel points this out and T.U.B. agrees that he is not knowledgable on contracts, but goes on to say he is sure $600,000 base is too low for a starting RB.

commentary - how can he have it both ways - he either knows contracts or does not know contracts.

diesel, after hearing T.U.B. does not know contract very well, explains that $600,000 in the first year of a contract with signing bonuses and guaranteed money is reasonable.

pine jumps in with a 'who are you' to just say it is what it is without proof.

diesel, losing patience, snaps back at pine and says, years of following football and commen sense.

pine, not to be outdone, pisses back suggesting diesel has no clue since he can not offer proof.

commentary - At least T.U.B. lack of information appears innocent, pine comes accross as an ###. What should diesel do? Write a thesis in this thread on the inner workings of nfl contracts in the salary cap era? Everyone who follows football and retains what they read knows that the first year of an NFL contract is lower than the remaining year. This is because signing bonus/roster bonuses are paid up-front (player gets money in hand) and the lower base makes the contract fit under the cap. Commen sense stuff, if you ask me. Base Salaries are only part of the equation when determing what a contract is telling you about how a player is valued by it's team.

thayman and radballs try to insert respect and decancy back into the thread.

gferrell also jumps in thinking he knows what the thread is about, but failed to absorb the first post properly.

The thread is questioning whether CT is the man in Minny which lead to a discussion about whether his contract and salary could help clear up the answer to that question. It's very well on topic. Considering T.U.B. started the post and was replying primarily to diesel, I think it goes to prove T.U.B. felt the exchange was what he was looking for.

To summarize, T.U.B. does not think CT is reliable - he is concerned.

The following think CT is a good value for 2006:

- diesel

- RaidierNation

- Bri

- datonn

- radball (does not think Minny with be drafting a replacement RB this year)

- EnglishTeacher

- Buttmonkey

- Biabreakable

- Baracuda

- BigTex

FridayFrenzy was questioned CT's value because of his assertion that salary cap increase as a result of the new CBA suddenly changes the way contracts are structured.

nygiants56 questions CT's value as he thinks Childress will duplicate Philly in Minny when it has been said time and again on this board and in press articles that Childress loves the run. The lack of run in Philly's offense was Reid, not Childress.

pinequick came in to piss at diesel.

gferrell20 thought he was fighting the good fight on getting the post back on topic, but read the post wrong. If it was off-topic for any reason, that was pine's fault.

You lament silliness, and then post all of that.For the record, I think that Taylor will be the starter in Minnesota and that Minnesota will not go RB high in the draft (which seems to be the point of TUB's original post). I ground that belief on 3 factors:

1. New regime brought in "their" player

2. Taylor has shown the ability when given the chance

3. Even if Taylor falters, M. Moore is a quality backup and has feature-back ability (when healthy--hopeful dynasty owner talking here). This depth precludes spending a high pick on a RB.

Others seem to ground their belief in the size of Taylor's contract. But if someone were to suggest that $600,000 base salary seems low for a starting RB in the NFL today, I might do more to defend my point than shoot back: "Im guessing we arent at all familiar with the NFL salary cap or how contracts are structured, correct?" Furthermore, when someone admits that they aren't familiar, and they would like to hear the other's opinion, I certainly could find a better response than belittling someone's knowledge of football ("Im not sure I even know how ot respond to this. I would expect someone with absolutely no knowledge of anything about money or football to think this, but obviously you found this board, so we know that isnt true.").

If guess if that exchange seems excellent to you, so be it. If calling someone on being less-than-excellent, and asking them to defend their assertion (that Taylor's *contract* is the reason that we should be confident in his starter's status in MIN) is a pissing match, so be it. For example, it might be interesting to note that LT2 made less last season in base compensation than Taylor's $600,000 slated for 2006. A *fact* like that might give me more confidence in the assertion that Taylor's base-salary in his contract shouldn't be used to doubt the Vikings' commitment to him as their starting RB. To each his own.

In sum, I feel safe in asserting that the Vikes are committed to CT as their starting RB.

 

[Banger]

A better quesiton is what leads anyone to the conclusion that CT is NOT the man?

The facts as I see them are:

- New coaching staff so the RBBC mess that the other staff used has no relevance

- CT was signed in the 1st day or two of FA when other big names were available but decided to get Hutch/CT as opposed to one big name back

- Childress has praised CT and stated he's always been a fan since college and stated that CT's versatility was a big factor in bringing him in and wants to see him get the ball 20-25 times a game.

- CT got good starter money considering he's never been a starter

Can someone else get carries? Will they draft a rookie RB? Will there be an RBBC? Any of these COULD happen but there is nothing to indicate from anything I've read that would lead me to this conclusion and I've been following this situation pretty closely.

 

[DoubleG]

A better quesiton is what leads anyone to the conclusion that CT is NOT the man?

The facts as I see them are:

- New coaching staff so the RBBC mess that the other staff used has no relevance

- CT was signed in the 1st day or two of FA when other big names were available but decided to get Hutch/CT as opposed to one big name back

- Childress has praised CT and stated he's always been a fan since college and stated that CT's versatility was a big factor in bringing him in and wants to see him get the ball 20-25 times a game.

- CT got good starter money considering he's never been a starter

Can someone else get carries? Will they draft a rookie RB? Will there be an RBBC? Any of these COULD happen but there is nothing to indicate from anything I've read that would lead me to this conclusion and I've been following this situation pretty closely.

Good points there. Also, with Chester Taylor being the starter, he should be fairly productive as the Vikes used the cap space to sign him and a STUD O-lineman = commitment to the run. CT could be 2006's version of last years' Lamont Jordan...or not.

 

[ravnzfan]

a couple of things:

Chester Taylor does not have a history of being injured...he did earn a week off last year due to "attitude" (and not posting for practice until Friday of a game week)...it wasn't widely reported, but Taylor was very upset w/the Ravens last season...consider:

--as a RFA, CLEV offered a $3M/1yr deal to come as their starter, which the Ravens matched, denying the opportunity to prove he could start over a whole season

--Jamal Lewis spent time in the pokey, then a half way house all summer...he reported to camp in early August, then needed another week "to get into football shape"...who do you think took EVERY 1st team RB carry in mini-passing and every other camp, until ~August 10th?

--with Lewis struggling over his own contract issues, Taylor felt under used...he had slightly better numbers than Lewis, when given the opportunity, which in his mind was not enough...this led him to believe the Ravens were intentionally keeping his value "down", as Free Agency approached

--Taylor turned down more money here than Minny offered...the assumption is Childress fancies Taylor as a Westy-type, which ain't half bad, and promised the opportunity Taylor has been looking for

--the "tag" number for RB's this year was ~$6.7M, which is the avg of the 5 highest paid at the position...this would refer to their "cap number", as opposed to "base salary", which are 2 entirely different numbers...draw your own conclusions as to where $14M/4yrs falls(on the bottom end), but understand Taylor gave up some $$$ for the "opportunity" to play w/Childress in a system that will have him see ~300-325 touches

personally, I think the days of the 350+ carry back are comming to an end, as teams continue to utilize 2 and 3 backs in different packages, trying to keep bodies healthy---while there will obviously "be others" in Minny getting some work, IMHO, Taylor sees Westy-type touches indoors, on a fast track...a combination I think will provide for some very nice numbers from Mr Taylor

 

[pinequick]

a couple of things:

Chester Taylor does not have a history of being injured...he did earn a week off last year due to "attitude" (and not posting for practice until Friday of a game week)...it wasn't widely reported, but Taylor was very upset w/the Ravens last season...consider:

--as a RFA, CLEV offered a $3M/1yr deal to come as their starter, which the Ravens matched, denying the opportunity to prove he could start over a whole season

--Jamal Lewis spent time in the pokey, then a half way house all summer...he reported to camp in early August, then needed another week "to get into football shape"...who do you think took EVERY 1st team RB carry in mini-passing and every other camp, until ~August 10th?

--with Lewis struggling over his own contract issues, Taylor felt under used...he had slightly better numbers than Lewis, when given the opportunity, which in his mind was not enough...this led him to believe the Ravens were intentionally keeping his value "down", as Free Agency approached

--Taylor turned down more money here than Minny offered...the assumption is Childress fancies Taylor as a Westy-type, which ain't half bad, and promised the opportunity Taylor has been looking for

--the "tag" number for RB's this year was ~$6.7M, which is the avg of the 5 highest paid at the position...this would refer to their "cap number", as opposed to "base salary", which are 2 entirely different numbers...draw your own conclusions as to where $14M/4yrs falls(on the bottom end), but understand Taylor gave up some $$$ for the "opportunity" to play w/Childress in a system that will have him see ~300-325 touches

personally, I think the days of the 350+ carry back are comming to an end, as teams continue to utilize 2 and 3 backs in different packages, trying to keep bodies healthy---while there will obviously "be others" in Minny getting some work, IMHO, Taylor sees Westy-type touches indoors, on a fast track...a combination I think will provide for some very nice numbers from Mr Taylor

You've obviously *seen* more of Taylor than I have--I mostly see boxscores, given that I don't get a lot of Baltimore games in my area. I think everyone will be ready to jump on the "well, it's Childress, so Taylor will be used a lot like Westbrook."How do you see Taylor's skill set? How does it compare to Westbrook's in your opinion? I know he can catch the ball, but Taylor strikes me as having the size to run inside effectively.

I'll hang up and listen. . .

 

[vinwinephans]

pine -

First - we agree on CT. I'm actually looking forward to the season to witness how it plays out (hopeful dynasty owner here as well).

I can see, as Banger suggest, no reason to suggest he won't be the #1 back at this point in time.

Could Minny draft a RB? Sure they could, but my guess is they won't.

Could Mewelde take over if CT gets hurt? Sure he could, but I don't try to predict injury.

As for the rest - I lamented silly and was silly. You lamented 'not being kind to others' and in my mind, where 'not kind to others'. See?

In any case, you challanged diesel and left it looking personal, imo (as you offered no commentary on the subject). You should have offered the info you finally did at the same time. 'Being kind to others is also supporting each other'.

That's why I summed up the thread for everyone!

 

[Banger]

a couple of things:

Chester Taylor does not have a history of being injured...he did earn a week off last year due to "attitude" (and not posting for practice until Friday of a game week)...it wasn't widely reported, but Taylor was very upset w/the Ravens last season...consider:

--as a RFA, CLEV offered a $3M/1yr deal to come as their starter, which the Ravens matched

--Jamal Lewis spent time in the pokey, then a half way house all summer...he reported to camp in early August, then needed another week "to get into football shape"...who do you think took EVERY 1st team RB carry in mini-passing and every other camp, until ~August 10th?

--with Lewis struggling over his own contract issues, Taylor felt under used...he had slightly better numbers than Lewis, when given the opportunity, which in his mind was not enough...this led him to believe the Ravens were intentionally keeping his value "down", as Free Agency approached

--Taylor turned down more money here than Minny offered...the assumption is Childress fancies Taylor as a Westy-type, which ain't half bad, and promised the opportunity Taylor has been looking for

--the "tag" number for RB's this year was ~$6.7M, which is the avg of the 5 highest paid at the position...this would refer to their "cap number", as opposed to "base salary", which are 2 entirely different numbers...draw your own conclusions as to where $14M/4yrs falls(on the bottom end), but understand Taylor gave up some $$$ for the "opportunity" to play w/Childress in a system that will have him see ~300 touches

personally, I think the days of the 350+ carry back are comming to an end, as teams continue to utilize 2 and 3 backs in different packages, trying to keep bodies healthy---while there will obviously "be others" in Minny getting some work, IMHO, Taylor sees Westy-type touches indoors, on a fast track...a combination I think will provide for some very nice numbers from Mr Taylor

Nice post, some good info here. Makes perfect sense. I agree that I don't think it was the money so much as the opportunity.

 

[ravnzfan]

a couple of things:

Chester Taylor does not have a history of being injured...he did earn a week off last year due to "attitude" (and not posting for practice until Friday of a game week)...it wasn't widely reported, but Taylor was very upset w/the Ravens last season...consider:

--as a RFA, CLEV offered a $3M/1yr deal to come as their starter, which the Ravens matched, denying the opportunity to prove he could start over a whole season

--Jamal Lewis spent time in the pokey, then a half way house all summer...he reported to camp in early August, then needed another week "to get into football shape"...who do you think took EVERY 1st team RB carry in mini-passing and every other camp, until ~August 10th?

--with Lewis struggling over his own contract issues, Taylor felt under used...he had slightly better numbers than Lewis, when given the opportunity, which in his mind was not enough...this led him to believe the Ravens were intentionally keeping his value "down", as Free Agency approached

--Taylor turned down more money here than Minny offered...the assumption is Childress fancies Taylor as a Westy-type, which ain't half bad, and promised the opportunity Taylor has been looking for

--the "tag" number for RB's this year was ~$6.7M, which is the avg of the 5 highest paid at the position...this would refer to their "cap number", as opposed to "base salary", which are 2 entirely different numbers...draw your own conclusions as to where $14M/4yrs falls(on the bottom end),  but understand Taylor gave up some $$$ for the "opportunity" to play w/Childress in a system that will have him see ~300-325 touches

personally, I think the days of the 350+ carry back are comming to an end, as teams continue to utilize 2 and 3 backs in different packages, trying to keep bodies healthy---while there will obviously "be others" in Minny getting some work, IMHO, Taylor sees Westy-type touches indoors, on a fast track...a combination I think will provide for some very nice numbers from Mr Taylor

You've obviously *seen* more of Taylor than I have--I mostly see boxscores, given that I don't get a lot of Baltimore games in my area. I think everyone will be ready to jump on the "well, it's Childress, so Taylor will be used a lot like Westbrook."How do you see Taylor's skill set? How does it compare to Westbrook's in your opinion? I know he can catch the ball, but Taylor strikes me as having the size to run inside effectively.

I'll hang up and listen. . .

CT is roughly same height/weight as Tiki, although Tiki appears alittle bigger in the shoulders, while Taylor seems to have it a bit more in the legs---didn't look up Westy's size, but I think Taylor is slightly bigger (an inch or 2...~8-12 lbs)Taylor has great hands, and will excell in this type offense---I though FOR SURE Fassell would utilize some packages for Taylor much like he did w/Barber, but this past season was such a train wreck I know Fassell didn't get to do nearly a fraction of what he wanted

Suprisingly, Taylor ran very well between the tackles...I wouldn't send him in there 20-25X's/game, but quick hitters/off-T slants are no problem for him

I wouldn't expect much against 8-man fronts, 3rd and a long-1, though, as he obviously lacks the pure bulk to "move piles"

 

[vinwinephans]

a couple of things:

Chester Taylor does not have a history of being injured...he did earn a week off last year due to "attitude" (and not posting for practice until Friday of a game week)...it wasn't widely reported, but Taylor was very upset w/the Ravens last season...consider:

--as a RFA, CLEV offered a $3M/1yr deal to come as their starter, which the Ravens matched, denying the opportunity to prove he could start over a whole season

--Jamal Lewis spent time in the pokey, then a half way house all summer...he reported to camp in early August, then needed another week "to get into football shape"...who do you think took EVERY 1st team RB carry in mini-passing and every other camp, until ~August 10th?

--with Lewis struggling over his own contract issues, Taylor felt under used...he had slightly better numbers than Lewis, when given the opportunity, which in his mind was not enough...this led him to believe the Ravens were intentionally keeping his value "down", as Free Agency approached

--Taylor turned down more money here than Minny offered...the assumption is Childress fancies Taylor as a Westy-type, which ain't half bad, and promised the opportunity Taylor has been looking for

--the "tag" number for RB's this year was ~$6.7M, which is the avg of the 5 highest paid at the position...this would refer to their "cap number", as opposed to "base salary", which are 2 entirely different numbers...draw your own conclusions as to where $14M/4yrs falls(on the bottom end),  but understand Taylor gave up some $$$ for the "opportunity" to play w/Childress in a system that will have him see ~300-325 touches

personally, I think the days of the 350+ carry back are comming to an end, as teams continue to utilize 2 and 3 backs in different packages, trying to keep bodies healthy---while there will obviously "be others" in Minny getting some work, IMHO, Taylor sees Westy-type touches indoors, on a fast track...a combination I think will provide for some very nice numbers from Mr Taylor

You've obviously *seen* more of Taylor than I have--I mostly see boxscores, given that I don't get a lot of Baltimore games in my area. I think everyone will be ready to jump on the "well, it's Childress, so Taylor will be used a lot like Westbrook."How do you see Taylor's skill set? How does it compare to Westbrook's in your opinion? I know he can catch the ball, but Taylor strikes me as having the size to run inside effectively.

I'll hang up and listen. . .

I've been following this as well as I have been a CT owner in dynasty for a for three years now...I agree with the summary ravnzfan provided. I did not realize CT took less money to goto Minny.

I do not agree with the assumption that Childress in Philly created Westbrook and therefore Childress in Minny will make CT = Westbrook.

Childress likes to run. He likes to run more than Reid. Reid did not like to run, he liked to pass. The little running you say the Eagles do was a result of Childress's influence.

CT carries will be > Westbrook carries.

CT receptions will be < Westbrook respections, but they will be present.

 

[ravnzfan]

BTW...the Ravens had $17M/5 on the table, or a 5th yr for $3M, which made the contract slightly higher

 

[pinequick]

pine -

First - we agree on CT. I'm actually looking forward to the season to witness how it plays out (hopeful dynasty owner here as well).

I can see, as Banger suggest, no reason to suggest he won't be the #1 back at this point in time.

Could Minny draft a RB? Sure they could, but my guess is they won't.

Could Mewelde take over if CT gets hurt? Sure he could, but I don't try to predict injury.

As for the rest - I lamented silly and was silly. You lamented 'not being kind to others' and in my mind, where 'not kind to others'. See?

In any case, you challanged diesel and left it looking personal, imo (as you offered no commentary on the subject). You should have offered the info you finally did at the same time. 'Being kind to others is also supporting each other'.

That's why I summed up the thread for everyone!

No--you're right. I flamed him a little. Mea culpa. But frankly, I get tired of seeing that stuff on this board from time to time. I should always turn the other cheek and provide good quality information as a rebuke. It was too late last night for me to be motivated to do that. That said, I am usually impressed at the amount of excellence on these boards. BTW, other RBs with "low" base salaries:

B. Westbrook will make $550k in 2006

Chris Brown will make $460k in 2006

Portis will make $545k in 2006

L. Jordan will make $550k in 2006

W. McGahee made $529K last year

After reading this thread, I would like to say that Taylor = value, but I'm afraid that by July Taylor might very well be regarded as the 2nd coming of Marshall Faulk in his prime.

 

[Banger]

pine -

First - we agree on CT.  I'm actually looking forward to the season to witness how it plays out (hopeful dynasty owner here as well).

I can see, as Banger suggest, no reason to suggest he won't be the #1 back at this point in time.

Could Minny draft a RB?  Sure they could, but my guess is they won't.

Could Mewelde take over if CT gets hurt?  Sure he could, but I don't try to predict injury.

As for the rest - I lamented silly and was silly.  You lamented 'not being kind to others' and in my mind, where 'not kind to others'.  See?

In any case, you challanged diesel and left it looking personal, imo (as you offered no commentary on the subject).  You should have offered the info you finally did at the same time.  'Being kind to others is also supporting each other'.

That's why I summed up the thread for everyone!     

After reading this thread, I would like to say that Taylor = value, but I'm afraid that by July Taylor might very well be regarded as the 2nd coming of Marshall Faulk in his prime.

I agree that his value will be much less when the season rolls around. The real value is going to be realized by those owners that stuck him on their roster last year in keeper/dynasty leagues. I don't think it's too late to make a deal for him in keeper/dynasty leagues and although his value is surely up there is still enough uncertainty to get him a little cheaper than he'll be right before the season.

 

[fridayfrenzy]

Seriously, Taylor is the guy in Minnesota unless things change. No question in my mind right now.

Seriously, Domanick Davis is the guy in Houston unless things change. No question in my mind.

Yes, but there isn't a 99.9% chance of the Vikings landing Bush, while only some type of off-the-field discretion, MONSTER trade offer for the 1.01 or some type of Vince Young love-fest is going to keep Bush from joining Mr. Davis in the Texans backfield in about three weeks.... :statestheobvious:

Yes, but my point was the statement was ridiculous because the Vikings could be thinking of acquiring another RB for all we know. If minny drafts a RB in the 1st two rounds, do you really think Chester would still be the guy in Minny?It like saying Dominic Rhodes is the guy in Indy, UNLESS something changes. LOL.

Of course Taylor is the guy right now if nothign changes, as he is the only capable RB.

 

[Bri]

BTW, other RBs with "low" base salaries:

B. Westbrook will make $550k in 2006

Chris Brown will make $460k in 2006

Portis will make $545k in 2006

L. Jordan will make $550k in 2006

W. McGahee made $529K last year

This means little. The trend in the NFL has been to have lower base salaries. It's but one part of their contract $http://www.nflpa.org/PDFs/Shared/2005_Mid-...vember_2005.pdf

 

[pinequick]

pine -

First - we agree on CT.  I'm actually looking forward to the season to witness how it plays out (hopeful dynasty owner here as well).

I can see, as Banger suggest, no reason to suggest he won't be the #1 back at this point in time.

Could Minny draft a RB?  Sure they could, but my guess is they won't.

Could Mewelde take over if CT gets hurt?  Sure he could, but I don't try to predict injury.

As for the rest - I lamented silly and was silly.  You lamented 'not being kind to others' and in my mind, where 'not kind to others'.  See?

In any case, you challanged diesel and left it looking personal, imo (as you offered no commentary on the subject).  You should have offered the info you finally did at the same time.  'Being kind to others is also supporting each other'.

That's why I summed up the thread for everyone!     

After reading this thread, I would like to say that Taylor = value, but I'm afraid that by July Taylor might very well be regarded as the 2nd coming of Marshall Faulk in his prime.

I agree that his value will be much less when the season rolls around. The real value is going to be realized by those owners that stuck him on their roster last year in keeper/dynasty leagues. I don't think it's too late to make a deal for him in keeper/dynasty leagues and although his value is surely up there is still enough uncertainty to get him a little cheaper than he'll be right before the season.

This is *always* my problem--my "shark" move in regards to the Minny RB position was to draft M. Moore last season for the long-term investment (since Tice was on the Michael Bennett love-train again). This off-season, I was feeling pretty good about my move: SOD was gone, Bennett was a free agent. . . and then they signed Taylor. :(

 

[Big Score]

This is *always* my problem--my "shark" move in regards to the Minny RB position was to draft M. Moore last season for the long-term investment (since Tice was on the Michael Bennett love-train again). This off-season, I was feeling pretty good about my move: SOD was gone, Bennett was a free agent. . . and then they signed Taylor. :(

Don't feel like the Lone Ranger pinequick, you're not alone.

 

[vinwinephans]

This is *always* my problem--my "shark" move in regards to the Minny RB position was to draft M. Moore last season for the long-term investment (since Tice was on the Michael Bennett love-train again).  This off-season, I was feeling pretty good about my move:  SOD was gone, Bennett was a free agent. . . and then they signed Taylor.  :(

Don't feel like the Lone Ranger pinequick, you're not alone.

This was a double edge sword for me as well. Late in the season I was looking for players that I thought were value plays based on what I expected to happen in the off-season.I already had Chester Taylor as a handcuff to Jamel Lewis. I traded Jamel away, keeping Taylor knowing he'd be a FA looking for a starting gig.

I also decided to acquire Ciatrick Fason and Mewelde Moore. The thinking here was Tice would be gone, Bennett would be gone and one of these two would get the shot.

Needless to say, I was happy and sad when I found out CT signed with Minny.

Another kicker was I also picked k-Rob off waivers thinking he would get a chance someplace else... but for this dynasty team... all roads lead to Minnesota.

But I digress.

I agree CT is a nice value now / 2 months ago... but as soon as the draft is done and Minny goes into the season with CT, Moore, Fason, SOD? and/or a 4th round RB pick... CT will be everyone's favorite sleeper pick, which no longer makes him a sleeper pick.

 

[VICK-tory]

from draftsharks.com

10. RB Chester Taylor, Vikings: New HC Brad Childress told reporters that Taylor was a back “who can touch the ball 20-30 times a game.” Can we hold you to that, Brad? Our customers know we’re pretty big Taylor fans. On paper (with Steve Hutchinson) this could definitely be a big year for him. In fact, Taylor could be the next LaMont Jordan, another 4-year backup that got a starting gig. Chet's got wicked moves, good vision, and he stays low. He reminds us of Hall of Famer Thurman Thomas, frankly. There are a couple things that bother us. 1) Taylor’s contract isn’t a huge commitment - $5.6 million guaranteed – so it's feasible for them to go RB with the 17th pick. Note: LaMont Jordan got $14 million guaranteed from Oakland last year. 2) Will Childress throw 65-70% of the time like Andy Reid did?

 

[pinequick]

from draftsharks.com

10. RB Chester Taylor, Vikings: New HC Brad Childress told reporters that Taylor was a back “who can touch the ball 20-30 times a game.” Can we hold you to that, Brad? Our customers know we’re pretty big Taylor fans. On paper (with Steve Hutchinson) this could definitely be a big year for him. In fact, Taylor could be the next LaMont Jordan, another 4-year backup that got a starting gig. Chet's got wicked moves, good vision, and he stays low. He reminds us of Hall of Famer Thurman Thomas, frankly. There are a couple things that bother us. 1) Taylor’s contract isn’t a huge commitment - $5.6 million guaranteed – so it's feasible for them to go RB with the 17th pick. Note: LaMont Jordan got $14 million guaranteed from Oakland last year. 2) Will Childress throw 65-70% of the time like Andy Reid did?

So in other words, after all the histrionics in this thread, draftsharks is worried about exactly the same thing (contractually) that Undercover Brother was--that Taylor's deal isn't exactly that big of a contract for a starting RB.

 

[THE UNDERCOVER BROTHA]

Vikings | Taylor not guaranteed starting job Published Mon Apr 10 3:59:00 p.m. CT 2006

(KFFL) Mike Wobschall, of Vikings.com, reports Minnesota Vikings RB Chester Taylor is not guaranteed to be the team's starter in 2006. Taylor got first-team snaps in the team's minicamp, but RB Ciatrick Fason also received first-team reps. Taylor is the favorite for now, but will still have to prove during the offseason that he is starting material.

 

[John 14:6]

Vikings | Taylor not guaranteed starting job Published Mon Apr 10 3:59:00 p.m. CT 2006

(KFFL) Mike Wobschall, of Vikings.com, reports Minnesota Vikings RB Chester Taylor is not guaranteed to be the team's starter in 2006. Taylor got first-team snaps in the team's minicamp, but RB Ciatrick Fason also received first-team reps. Taylor is the favorite for now, but will still have to prove during the offseason that he is starting material.

I doubt he'll have much trouble beating out Fason...

 

[datonn]

Vikings | Taylor not guaranteed starting job Published Mon Apr 10 3:59:00 p.m. CT 2006 (KFFL) Mike Wobschall, of Vikings.com, reports Minnesota Vikings RB Chester Taylor is not guaranteed to be the team's starter in 2006. Taylor got first-team snaps in the team's minicamp, but RB Ciatrick Fason also received first-team reps. Taylor is the favorite for now, but will still have to prove during the offseason that he is starting material.

THE UNDERCOVER BROTHA,That's a bit misingenuous, as Vikings.com is citing a comment from the team's veteran mini-camp that "all 22 starting jobs are open for competition". If you take that comment at face-value, YES, Chester Taylor is FAR from guaranteed the starting RB job in Minnesota! However, anyone reading between the lines is clearly interpreting those comments as a motivational ploy by the coaching staff. Heck, maybe Matt Birk, Steve Hutchinson, Ryan Longwell, etc. etc. etc. might be back-ups this year too......

Yes, but my point was the statement was ridiculous because the Vikings could be thinking of acquiring another RB for all we know. If minny drafts a RB in the 1st two rounds, do you really think Chester would still be the guy in Minny?It like saying Dominic Rhodes is the guy in Indy, UNLESS something changes. LOL.Of course Taylor is the guy right now if nothign changes, as he is the only capable RB.

FridayFrenzy,The Vikings are NOT drafting a RB at #17, nor will they take a RB in the second round unless a mighty-fine prospect falls a lot further than they should. We can all speculate for the next three weeks, as it makes for good entertainment! However, there's a difference between "fiction" and "non-fiction", and the Vikings will NOT be taking a RB in the first or second round.....ESPECIALLY if Onterrio Smith looks like he will be given another chance by the team!

 

[cstu]

Vikings | Taylor not guaranteed starting job Published Mon Apr 10 3:59:00 p.m. CT 2006

(KFFL) Mike Wobschall, of Vikings.com, reports Minnesota Vikings RB Chester Taylor is not guaranteed to be the team's starter in 2006. Taylor got first-team snaps in the team's minicamp, but RB Ciatrick Fason also received first-team reps. Taylor is the favorite for now, but will still have to prove during the offseason that he is starting material.

I doubt he'll have much trouble beating out Fason...

Right, Fason is a bum and has no chance...

 

[cstu]

from draftsharks.com

10. RB Chester Taylor, Vikings: New HC Brad Childress told reporters that Taylor was a back “who can touch the ball 20-30 times a game.” Can we hold you to that, Brad? Our customers know we’re pretty big Taylor fans. On paper (with Steve Hutchinson) this could definitely be a big year for him. In fact, Taylor could be the next LaMont Jordan, another 4-year backup that got a starting gig. Chet's got wicked moves, good vision, and he stays low. He reminds us of Hall of Famer Thurman Thomas, frankly. There are a couple things that bother us. 1) Taylor’s contract isn’t a huge commitment - $5.6 million guaranteed – so it's feasible for them to go RB with the 17th pick. Note: LaMont Jordan got $14 million guaranteed from Oakland last year. 2) Will Childress throw 65-70% of the time like Andy Reid did?

So in other words, after all the histrionics in this thread, draftsharks is worried about exactly the same thing (contractually) that Undercover Brother was--that Taylor's deal isn't exactly that big of a contract for a starting RB.

Exactly, and they're both right. Taylor's contract allows Vikings to see if Taylor is starter material. His cap number is $2.1M this year and at worst they would take a $4.5 cap hit next year if they cut hm. However, if they kept him, which they would do if he proves he's the starter, his cap hit will be $3.9M. That's very reasonable for a starting RB in the NFL.By signing this contract, they are giving Taylor a shot at the starting job and if it works out they get a cheap starting RB. If he doesn't work out, they can cut him at a reasonable cost. The way it's structured it tells me that are going to give Taylor every shot at the starting job to start the season.

He reminds me a lot of Westbrook with his ability to catch the ball and I see him being used a lot with Moore to spell him and Fason getting goal-line carries.

 

[CA_7]

DeAngelo Williams visited MIN yesterday. Chester Taylor owners getting nervous?

link

 

[Cannon Fodder]

DeAngelo Williams visited MIN yesterday. Chester Taylor owners getting nervous?

link

 

[jafo]

I'm interested to see some thoughts on Chester Taylor now that the draft is over and Onterrio Smith is out of the picture. I can't see how this guy won't be starting assuming he has a decent camp.

 

[glock]

 

[Bears_Man2]

If healthy, he should be going the first 3 rounds in every draft as we get close to the season. Will he? No, but he's got the upside for a RB1 in that offense.

 

[pmcdade]

I'm excited to have him in a Dynasty league and have him as a solid RB2 with RB1 upside from a fantasy perspective. Whoever has been starting in Mini has put up good numbers since R. Smith. Now we have someone who is "the man" again and should be a top 10 back.

 

[David Yudkin]

I am in the huge minority here in that I have Taylor in my Top 10 for 2006. The team seems intent on getting him 20-30 touches a game. I doubt he sees many weeks with 30, but he shoud get 22-23 on average.

He's running behind 4-time Pro Bowler Matt Birk, 3-time Pro Bowler Steve Hutchinson, and 2-time Pro Bowler Tony Richardson. And TE Jim Kleinsasser is one of the better blocking tight ends around.

Add in that Whizzinator is gone, Michael Bennett is gone, and Moe Williams retired. That leaves Mewelde Moore (who has trouble staying healthy) and Ciatrick Fason (who basically is their shor yardage back).

I also don't see the WR corps as being the force to be reckoned with like former Minnesota teams. The Robinsons, Taylor, and Williamson are all ok but not awe inspiring. Taylor should see plenty of swing passes.

I've said it all off-season that Chester Taylor 2006 = Lamont Jordan 2005.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I am in the huge minority here in that I have Taylor in my Top 10 for 2006. The team seems intent on getting him 20-30 touches a game. I doubt he sees many weeks with 30, but he shoud get 22-23 on average.

He's running behind 4-time Pro Bowler Matt Birk, 3-time Pro Bowler Steve Hutchinson, and 2-time Pro Bowler Tony Richardson. And TE Jim Kleinsasser is one of the better blocking tight ends around.

Add in that Whizzinator is gone, Michael Bennett is gone, and Moe Williams retired. That leaves Mewelde Moore (who has trouble staying healthy) and Ciatrick Fason (who basically is their shor yardage back).

I also don't see the WR corps as being the force to be reckoned with like former Minnesota teams. The Robinsons, Taylor, and Williamson are all ok but not awe inspiring. Taylor should see plenty of swing passes.

I've said it all off-season that Chester Taylor 2006 = Lamont Jordan 2005.

I snapped him up in round 2 of SSL3. I couldn't agree more. If McGahee bounces back and Culpepper is 100% at some point in the season, I'll be tough to beat.

 

[glock]

Played real hard to get last year in a trade that I insisted include CT...

...he blinked.

 

[David Yudkin]

I am in the huge minority here in that I have Taylor in my Top 10 for 2006.  The team seems intent on getting him 20-30 touches a game.  I doubt he sees many weeks with 30, but he shoud get 22-23 on average.

He's running behind 4-time Pro Bowler Matt Birk, 3-time Pro Bowler Steve Hutchinson, and 2-time Pro Bowler Tony Richardson.  And TE Jim Kleinsasser is one of the better blocking tight ends around.

Add in that Whizzinator is gone, Michael Bennett is gone, and Moe Williams retired.  That leaves Mewelde Moore (who has trouble staying healthy) and Ciatrick Fason (who basically is their shor yardage back).

I also don't see the WR corps as being the force to be reckoned with like former Minnesota teams.  The Robinsons, Taylor, and Williamson are all ok but not awe inspiring.  Taylor should see plenty of swing passes.

I've said it all off-season that Chester Taylor 2006 = Lamont Jordan 2005.

I snapped him up in round 2 of SSL3. I couldn't agree more. If McGahee bounces back and Culpepper is 100% at some point in the season, I'll be tough to beat.

FWIW, in one of the Salisbury & Clayton ESPN threads, I believe they were talking about C-Pep returning in November. Someone else posted it and I myself did not hear it, so I don't know if that is pure speculation or if they had more to back it up.

 

[gregjcross]

Its a good situation if they choose one back.

I own Mewelde and he could be vulturing time, he is a fast player with wiggle and pass catching that has never done badly. He also has the speed to return a punt for a TD.

Its a training camp battle that Taylor has the inside track on. Chester *should* be the week one guy but Mewelde wont go quietly into the night. I wouldnt put a third round pick on either one of them.

Played real hard to get last year in a trade that I insisted include CT...

...he blinked.

 

[David Yudkin]

Its a good situation if they choose one back. I own Mewelde and he could be vulturing time, he is a fast player with wiggle and pass catching that has never done badly. He also has the speed to return a punt for a TD. Its a training camp battle that Taylor has the inside track on. Chester *should* be the week one guy but Mewelde wont go quietly into the night. I wouldnt put a third round pick on either one of them.

I see nothing at all from the team or the coaching staff to reflect that they think of Taylor as anything as the #1 featured back and Mewelde a backup/long yardage back/kick return guy.Here is the blurb that was in the Blogger:

"I am really excited about this opportunity I have been given," RB Chester Taylor said. "I played behind RB Jamal Lewis for four years, and standing on the sideline was just killing me a little bit, but I did what I had to do." Now, Taylor could do much more, perhaps touching the ball "20 to 30 times" a game, according to HC Childress.

Unless Childress is completely blowing smoke, IMO the Vikes plan on using Taylor as their go to guy. Taylor inked a four-year, $14.1 million contract, with $5.6 million in guaranteed money. IMO, he's too costly to have as merely a backup.

 

[diesel7982]

I am in the huge minority here in that I have Taylor in my Top 10 for 2006.  The team seems intent on getting him 20-30 touches a game.  I doubt he sees many weeks with 30, but he shoud get 22-23 on average.

He's running behind 4-time Pro Bowler Matt Birk, 3-time Pro Bowler Steve Hutchinson, and 2-time Pro Bowler Tony Richardson.  And TE Jim Kleinsasser is one of the better blocking tight ends around.

Add in that Whizzinator is gone, Michael Bennett is gone, and Moe Williams retired.  That leaves Mewelde Moore (who has trouble staying healthy) and Ciatrick Fason (who basically is their shor yardage back).

I also don't see the WR corps as being the force to be reckoned with like former Minnesota teams.  The Robinsons, Taylor, and Williamson are all ok but not awe inspiring.  Taylor should see plenty of swing passes.

I've said it all off-season that Chester Taylor 2006 = Lamont Jordan 2005.

And completely agree.

EDIT: Assuming that he starts, of course

 

[CalBear]

Don't forget Adimchinobe Echemandu!

http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews...ts/14469546.htm

In the second round, the Vikings passed on players such as Maurice Drew of UCLA and Brian Calhoun of Wisconsin with their two picks. That shows their confidence that Mewelde Moore and Ciatrick Fason can back up starter Chester Taylor. Adimchinobe Echemandu also remains an option.

While none of the backs are proven commodities, Childress is high on Taylor's potential in his West Coast offense, and Moore has flashed plenty of talent in his two NFL seasons.

 

[B. Nugget]

I actually just agreed to a trade over the weekend that would net me Chester and Randy Moss for Julius Jones and Koren Robinson. It looks very one-sided because it is a salary cap keeper league and the other guy is trying to cut some salary. I basically just wrapped up the top WR corps in the league and got a potential RB1/RB2 as a throw in. I now have CJ, Boldin, Driver and Moss to go with TJ and Chester.

I had originally planned to offer Moss for the 1.02 pick (I would take Maroney) and Dillon, but I’m not sure if the guy will go for it. The thing that may help is that he drafted 4 rookie RBs last year and none did anything to help him, so he might want a proven WR. If he doesn’t go for it, I might just stick with my stud WRs and go after some undervalued guys like Droughns to tide me over.

I find it amazing that people don’t value Chester more than they do. I think he is going to be very solid this year and really has a chance to shock some people. Lamont Jordan many not be a bad comparison and at this time next year, CT may be going in the 1st round of drafts the way Jordan has been all spring, stranger things have happened.

B. Nugget

 

[reg]

Don't forget Adimchinobe Echemandu!

http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews...ts/14469546.htm

In the second round, the Vikings passed on players such as Maurice Drew of UCLA and Brian Calhoun of Wisconsin with their two picks. That shows their confidence that Mewelde Moore and Ciatrick Fason can back up starter Chester Taylor. Adimchinobe Echemandu also remains an option.

While none of the backs are proven commodities, Childress is high on Taylor's potential in his West Coast offense, and Moore has flashed plenty of talent in his two NFL seasons.

He prefers Joe. TIA

 

[tietzjd]

I also made the trade for C. Taylor.

Gave:

Brees and Driver

For:

C. Taylor and Brooks.

We will see if I out smarted my self.

C. Taylor is Penciled in as my #2 right now Behind LJ! (Still have Homes as back up) need to add depth in 2nd and 3rd rounds (LJ is my 1st pick over all) in MVP draft.

 

[JMon348]

I am in the huge minority here in that I have Taylor in my Top 10 for 2006. The team seems intent on getting him 20-30 touches a game. I doubt he sees many weeks with 30, but he shoud get 22-23 on average.

He's running behind 4-time Pro Bowler Matt Birk, 3-time Pro Bowler Steve Hutchinson, and 2-time Pro Bowler Tony Richardson. And TE Jim Kleinsasser is one of the better blocking tight ends around.

Add in that Whizzinator is gone, Michael Bennett is gone, and Moe Williams retired. That leaves Mewelde Moore (who has trouble staying healthy) and Ciatrick Fason (who basically is their shor yardage back).

I also don't see the WR corps as being the force to be reckoned with like former Minnesota teams. The Robinsons, Taylor, and Williamson are all ok but not awe inspiring. Taylor should see plenty of swing passes.

I've said it all off-season that Chester Taylor 2006 = Lamont Jordan 2005.

 

[Sabertooth]

I am in the huge minority here in that I have Taylor in my Top 10 for 2006.  The team seems intent on getting him 20-30 touches a game.  I doubt he sees many weeks with 30, but he shoud get 22-23 on average.

He's running behind 4-time Pro Bowler Matt Birk, 3-time Pro Bowler Steve Hutchinson, and 2-time Pro Bowler Tony Richardson.  And TE Jim Kleinsasser is one of the better blocking tight ends around.

Add in that Whizzinator is gone, Michael Bennett is gone, and Moe Williams retired.  That leaves Mewelde Moore (who has trouble staying healthy) and Ciatrick Fason (who basically is their shor yardage back).

I also don't see the WR corps as being the force to be reckoned with like former Minnesota teams.  The Robinsons, Taylor, and Williamson are all ok but not awe inspiring.  Taylor should see plenty of swing passes.

I've said it all off-season that Chester Taylor 2006 = Lamont Jordan 2005.

As a guy who trade away Lamont Jordan last season for T.O. in a keep 2 auction league just before he really cranked it up, I am pumped to hear this from as smart a guy as Yudkin. I recovered by snagging Chester on the cheap!I really think this analysis is pretty good on Chester. Not to mention that the coaching staff and ownership has changed. I'd imagine the janitors walking through Viking headquarters have their hands full just changing the name plaques on the offices. Not the same team we've seen in years past by any stretch.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I am in the huge minority here in that I have Taylor in my Top 10 for 2006.  The team seems intent on getting him 20-30 touches a game.  I doubt he sees many weeks with 30, but he shoud get 22-23 on average.

He's running behind 4-time Pro Bowler Matt Birk, 3-time Pro Bowler Steve Hutchinson, and 2-time Pro Bowler Tony Richardson.  And TE Jim Kleinsasser is one of the better blocking tight ends around.

Add in that Whizzinator is gone, Michael Bennett is gone, and Moe Williams retired.  That leaves Mewelde Moore (who has trouble staying healthy) and Ciatrick Fason (who basically is their shor yardage back).

I also don't see the WR corps as being the force to be reckoned with like former Minnesota teams.  The Robinsons, Taylor, and Williamson are all ok but not awe inspiring.  Taylor should see plenty of swing passes.

I've said it all off-season that Chester Taylor 2006 = Lamont Jordan 2005.

I snapped him up in round 2 of SSL3. I couldn't agree more. If McGahee bounces back and Culpepper is 100% at some point in the season, I'll be tough to beat.

FWIW, in one of the Salisbury & Clayton ESPN threads, I believe they were talking about C-Pep returning in November. Someone else posted it and I myself did not hear it, so I don't know if that is pure speculation or if they had more to back it up.

Ugh. I was hoping C-Pepp would be ready by week 2 or 3. Well, looks like it's Kitna and/or Pennington for the first couple of months.

 

[glock]

I also made the trade for C. Taylor.

Gave:

Brees and Driver

For:

C. Taylor and Brooks.

We will see if I out smarted my self.

C. Taylor is Penciled in as my #2 right now Behind LJ! (Still have Homes as back up) need to add depth in 2nd and 3rd rounds (LJ is my 1st pick over all) in MVP draft.

I have CT($4) penciled in as my #3 right now behind LJ($11)(no Holmes)...and am on the fence over wether or not to keep DD($54) as #2 in my $200 soft cap auction/keeper league...

 

[The Man Who Met Andy Griffith]

Taylor inked a four-year, $14.1 million contract, with $5.6 million in guaranteed money. IMO, he's too costly to have as merely a backup.

Does his contract have escalators that kick in if he's a backup?I would be surprised if he is not the starter, but I've never understood the $$ argument. Kevan Barlow made a lot of money last year too.

 

[David Yudkin]

Taylor inked a four-year, $14.1 million contract, with $5.6 million in guaranteed money. IMO, he's too costly to have as merely a backup.

Does his contract have escalators that kick in if he's a backup?I would be surprised if he is not the starter, but I've never understood the $$ argument. Kevan Barlow made a lot of money last year too.

The money argument normally carries more weight in the start of a contract. Teams will have shelled out a ton of real money. IIRC, Taylor will get a salary of $600,000 to go with his $5.6 million signing bonus. That means the team will dole out $6.2 million in cash this year. That's a tough number to justify for a guy to sit on the bench.It's not the end all of barometers, but many times the guy with the bigger paycheck will play.

 

[Rovers]

Chester Taylor.... what I've gone through with 'ol Chester!

Last year, as an RFA, Cleveland (mighta been Cincy) tried to sign him, and Baltimore matched. I was convinced that Taylor had at least some NFL teams that regarded him as a starting RB at that point.

In one of my dynasty leagues, a guy got cute, since I was new to the league. He bid on Taylor as a RFA (I also had Lewis) all the way up to $28 (we get $75 a year) , and I matched. The league laughed at me. Then... same guy... bids on Betts (I also had Portis) all the way up to $27. I made him eat that bid.

I was certain (at least reasonably so) that in 2006, Taylor would be starting somewhere. At $28, he now looks like a bargain basement deal.... and no one is laughing. (16 team, can start 1, 2 or 3 RB's) Sometimes, even a blind squirrel finds a nut.