Ken Hamlin (1 Viewer)

[Fantasy Football Junkie]

Cowboy's sign him to help the defense. He is better than what is currently on the roster. This could change the draft for the Cowboy's.

http://www.rotoworld.com/Content/playerpag...=NFL&id=533

 

[T Man]

Schefter is reproting this deal done as well:

Friday, March 23

The week of moving and shaking for the Houston Texans continues. The Texans have decided to cut quarterback David Carr and running back Domanick Williams -- the former Domanick Davis. Each is now free to sign with another team. The Texans also are expected to match the offer sheet that restricted free-agent fullback Vonte Leach signed with the New York Giants.

The Dallas Cowboys have reached agreement with free-agent safety Ken Hamlin on a one-year, $2.5 million deal. Hamlin also had visited the Saints, but he spent the past few days trying to finalize the deal with the Cowboys. Now Hamlin and Roy Williams will form one of the most formidable safety tandems in the league.

The Miami Dolphins and quarterback Trent Green have all but reached a contract agreement; there no longer is an issue about whether those two sides can strike a deal. The issue is between the Dolphins and the Chiefs. If those two teams can reach a trade agreement, Green will become a Dolphin. Otherwise, Miami could opt to try to sign David Carr, who will be released by the Houston Texans.

I think it is a pretty good deal for Dallas. Hamlin is a good player and gives them depth. The only problem is that neither Williams nor Hamlin are considered good in coverage, so it will put a lot of pressure on the CBs; but, running against them will prove difficult.

 

[fridayfrenzy]

I think it is a pretty good deal for Dallas. Hamlin is a good player and gives them depth. The only problem is that neither Williams nor Hamlin are considered good in coverage, so it will put a lot of pressure on the CBs; but, running against them will prove difficult.

Tell that to Hamlin and his ton of missed tackles last year.

 

[fridayfrenzy]

Schefter is reproting this deal done as well:

Friday, March 23

The Dallas Cowboys have reached agreement with free-agent safety Ken Hamlin on a one-year, $2.5 million deal. Hamlin also had visited the Saints, but he spent the past few days trying to finalize the deal with the Cowboys. Now Hamlin and Roy Williams will form one of the most formidable safety tandems in the league.

I think it forms the most OVERRATED safety tandem in the league.

 

[cobalt_27]

Schefter is reproting this deal done as well:

Friday, March 23

The Dallas Cowboys have reached agreement with free-agent safety Ken Hamlin on a one-year, $2.5 million deal. Hamlin also had visited the Saints, but he spent the past few days trying to finalize the deal with the Cowboys. Now Hamlin and Roy Williams will form one of the most formidable safety tandems in the league.

I think it forms the most OVERRATED safety tandem in the league.

I think your football analysis is usually pretty overrated as well. This is a great signing.

 

[dickey moe]

Schefter is reproting this deal done as well:

Friday, March 23

The Dallas Cowboys have reached agreement with free-agent safety Ken Hamlin on a one-year, $2.5 million deal. Hamlin also had visited the Saints, but he spent the past few days trying to finalize the deal with the Cowboys. Now Hamlin and Roy Williams will form one of the most formidable safety tandems in the league.

I think it forms the most OVERRATED safety tandem in the league.

Let your hate flowwww.

 

[Bankerguy]

Like it or not...it's an upgrade to a need position at a decent price. Good signing and a great off-season to date for the Cowboys.

 

[mad sweeney]

Schefter is reproting this deal done as well:

Friday, March 23

The Dallas Cowboys have reached agreement with free-agent safety Ken Hamlin on a one-year, $2.5 million deal. Hamlin also had visited the Saints, but he spent the past few days trying to finalize the deal with the Cowboys. Now Hamlin and Roy Williams will form one of the most formidable safety tandems in the league.

I think it forms the most OVERRATED safety tandem in the league.

Absolutely. One who drags em down from behind cuz he;s ou of position and burned. A nd another who bites on any and every play action pass. Hamlins cover skill are decent and he's a hard hitter but he gets suckered too easy and if/when he misses on the big hit it means more yardage. I like him as a player but he never regained the swagger he had in his first 2 years in Seattle. It should free up Williams to be used more creativel and keep him out of positions where he can/will get burned. A good tandem but not great, with big downside at times. As well as possibly one of the most penalized tandems too I'll wager. Too bad for him it'sonlya one year deal.

 

[Kleck]

Crazy how a team signs a guy and they feel the need to label him as exactly what they need. I guess they say stuff like this to make themselves feel better. They reality is that Hamlin was a liability in Seattle. The team played much better in 2005 when Hamlin was out. They took a huge step backwards in the secondary last season with his return. I took crap last season when I said I wasn't excited about having Hamlin back. I would have rather kept Manual (off to GB). I'm confident that most Seahawks homers would agree after watching the safeties get torched all last season.

LINK

Hamlin suddenly a QB on defense?

Permalink Posted by Mike Sando @ 11:50:18 pm

The Seahawks missed Marquand Manuel at safety last season not so much for his physical skills but because he was so adept at making sure teammates were lined up properly and apprised of their responsibilities. Seattle sought to improve the situation on that front by adding veteran safeties Deon Grant and Brian Russell.

The Dallas Cowboys were also looking for a safety to serve as what some would call a quarterback of the defense (or at least the secondary). That was one of the reasons they signed Ken Hamlin, according to this story on the Cowboys' Web site (scroll down a ways). Hamlin, of course, was part of that same Seattle secondary that was supposedly lacking someone to get people lined up right.

This stuff is always entertaining. One team gets rid of a guy for lacking a quality, only to have another team sign the player because he supposedly possesses that very quality. The bottom line, much of the time, is that teams are looking to shake up personnel at various positions, and for different reasons. In this case, the Cowboys figured they couldn't lose by signing a talented player to a modest contract. The Seahawks figured they would move in another direction, something that tends to happen more frequently when a new personnel guy inherits players left over from the previous regime.

 

[Tyrion]

Great signing. He is coming from a weak secondary but hopefully playing with the big boys will inspire him to better play. It gives Dallas a Vet to compete with Pat Watkins and since they got him for $2.5 million with little in the signing bonus it doesn't stop them from picking a safety in the draft if a great one falls to them.

I love the Cowboys' offseason. They are set up perfectly now to pick best player on the board. It would be nice if they could get a true 3-4 Nose tackle but maybe they can find one in the middle to late roundsl.

 

[Kleck]

Great signing. He is coming from a weak secondary ...

Just spit-balling here, but is it because he was in it? Perhaps?

 

[Tag]

Great signing. He is coming from a weak secondary ...

Just spit-balling here, but is it because he was in it? Perhaps?

I dont know if the poor secondary play was because of Hamlin or not but I do know he is an upgrade over what Dallas has in Watkins.

 

[Kleck]

Great signing. He is coming from a weak secondary ...

Just spit-balling here, but is it because he was in it? Perhaps?

I dont know if the poor secondary play was because of Hamlin or not but I do know he is an upgrade over what Dallas has in Watkins.

I haven't watched Watkins enough to give an objective analysis, but I can assure you that desperation is the word of the day if Hamlin is an upgrade. There are two major problem with Hamlin's game.1. Hamlin made a name for himself as a rookie with a crushing hit on Donte Stallworth in Seattle. Stallworth's helmet went flying and he ending up on the bench saying something about Batman. I think Hamlin has been trying to duplicate that same hit ever since. He's constantly looking for the knockout blow instead of just making tackles. I lost count how many times I saw someone bounce off of him and keep running because he was trying to tackles with just his shoulder instead of attempting to wrap up.2. He gets torched deep. A lot. He's got his eyes in the backfield way too much. Some players can get away with it. He can't. He lacks the recovery speed.I don't doubt that Dallas was disappointed with the play from their FS last year, but I can assure that throwing money at Hamlin (one year contract?) is desperation at best. I expect Hamlin and Williams to make some highlight reels with big hits, but I also expect them to be giving up big plays way more often leading to Dallas losses.

 

[Routilla]

I think what this does more than anything is to confuse offenses in terms of not knowing whether Williams or Hamlin may be in either run support or blitz. Last year I felt the only safety that could put real pressure on a QB was Williams and also provide run support. I truly believe this is why Williams was out of position a lot as he felt obligated to support the run. Perhaps now with another good blitzer/provider of run support then the guy playing pass defense can focus on that and not wonder if a big running play is coming. Only time will tell of course but this is my take. I cannot wait for the draft now as we can really get an impact player at ANY position. I still would like defense though, either a DT/NG or a DB.

 

[cacksman]

Hamlin used to be my favorite player until last year. I cannot tell you how frustrated he made me when he would miss tackle after tackle trying to lay someone out. The problem is... he never layed anyone out!

He is known by many non-educated fans as a "big hitter". I dont remember the last time he actually had a big hit. Seattle was much better with Manuel at FS than Hamlin.

 

[kevthegrad]

He got his butt kicked in a street fight by some non-athlete. He's a wuss. No dignity.

 

[bentley]

Great signing. He is coming from a weak secondary ...

Just spit-balling here, but is it because he was in it? Perhaps?

I dont know if the poor secondary play was because of Hamlin or not but I do know he is an upgrade over what Dallas has in Watkins.

I haven't watched Watkins enough to give an objective analysis, but I can assure you that desperation is the word of the day if Hamlin is an upgrade. There are two major problem with Hamlin's game.1. Hamlin made a name for himself as a rookie with a crushing hit on Donte Stallworth in Seattle. Stallworth's helmet went flying and he ending up on the bench saying something about Batman. I think Hamlin has been trying to duplicate that same hit ever since. He's constantly looking for the knockout blow instead of just making tackles. I lost count how many times I saw someone bounce off of him and keep running because he was trying to tackles with just his shoulder instead of attempting to wrap up.2. He gets torched deep. A lot. He's got his eyes in the backfield way too much. Some players can get away with it. He can't. He lacks the recovery speed.I don't doubt that Dallas was disappointed with the play from their FS last year, but I can assure that throwing money at Hamlin (one year contract?) is desperation at best. I expect Hamlin and Williams to make some highlight reels with big hits, but I also expect them to be giving up big plays way more often leading to Dallas losses.

Sounds like a description of Roy Williams. Hamlin didn't cost much, and I'm certain that he's better than Watkins, who appears to share many of the same negative traits with none of the positive.

 

[Kleck]

He got his butt kicked in a street fight by some non-athlete. He's a wuss. No dignity.

I think you're leaving out some of the details. If I remember correctly he took a pipe to the side of the noggin. Not much of a "fight".

 

[Jeff Pasquino]

Great signing. He is coming from a weak secondary ...

Just spit-balling here, but is it because he was in it? Perhaps?

I dont know if the poor secondary play was because of Hamlin or not but I do know he is an upgrade over what Dallas has in Watkins.

I haven't watched Watkins enough to give an objective analysis, but I can assure you that desperation is the word of the day if Hamlin is an upgrade. There are two major problem with Hamlin's game.1. Hamlin made a name for himself as a rookie with a crushing hit on Donte Stallworth in Seattle. Stallworth's helmet went flying and he ending up on the bench saying something about Batman. I think Hamlin has been trying to duplicate that same hit ever since. He's constantly looking for the knockout blow instead of just making tackles. I lost count how many times I saw someone bounce off of him and keep running because he was trying to tackles with just his shoulder instead of attempting to wrap up.2. He gets torched deep. A lot. He's got his eyes in the backfield way too much. Some players can get away with it. He can't. He lacks the recovery speed.I don't doubt that Dallas was disappointed with the play from their FS last year, but I can assure that throwing money at Hamlin (one year contract?) is desperation at best. I expect Hamlin and Williams to make some highlight reels with big hits, but I also expect them to be giving up big plays way more often leading to Dallas losses.

Sounds like a description of Roy Williams. Hamlin didn't cost much, and I'm certain that he's better than Watkins, who appears to share many of the same negative traits with none of the positive.

This is exactly the problem. Roy Williams gets torched in pass coverage, and Hamlin won't be much better. The secondary will be chasing WRs all season long - unless they plan on a man-free (I think that's right) - 2 cover corners, 1 FS in the middle. Then they can have a nickel-like package with Roy W and Hamlin in the box for run support and covering the middle. That's unorthodox so I doubt that's a base coverage, but I don't think they'll do well in pass coverage if both of these guys are the only safeties on the field. That puts a lot of heat on the corners, which IIRC aren't that great.

 

[Tag]

Great signing. He is coming from a weak secondary ...

Just spit-balling here, but is it because he was in it? Perhaps?

I dont know if the poor secondary play was because of Hamlin or not but I do know he is an upgrade over what Dallas has in Watkins.

I haven't watched Watkins enough to give an objective analysis, but I can assure you that desperation is the word of the day if Hamlin is an upgrade. There are two major problem with Hamlin's game.1. Hamlin made a name for himself as a rookie with a crushing hit on Donte Stallworth in Seattle. Stallworth's helmet went flying and he ending up on the bench saying something about Batman. I think Hamlin has been trying to duplicate that same hit ever since. He's constantly looking for the knockout blow instead of just making tackles. I lost count how many times I saw someone bounce off of him and keep running because he was trying to tackles with just his shoulder instead of attempting to wrap up.2. He gets torched deep. A lot. He's got his eyes in the backfield way too much. Some players can get away with it. He can't. He lacks the recovery speed.I don't doubt that Dallas was disappointed with the play from their FS last year, but I can assure that throwing money at Hamlin (one year contract?) is desperation at best. I expect Hamlin and Williams to make some highlight reels with big hits, but I also expect them to be giving up big plays way more often leading to Dallas losses.

Sounds like a description of Roy Williams. Hamlin didn't cost much, and I'm certain that he's better than Watkins, who appears to share many of the same negative traits with none of the positive.

This is exactly the problem. Roy Williams gets torched in pass coverage, and Hamlin won't be much better. The secondary will be chasing WRs all season long - unless they plan on a man-free (I think that's right) - 2 cover corners, 1 FS in the middle. Then they can have a nickel-like package with Roy W and Hamlin in the box for run support and covering the middle. That's unorthodox so I doubt that's a base coverage, but I don't think they'll do well in pass coverage if both of these guys are the only safeties on the field. That puts a lot of heat on the corners, which IIRC aren't that great.

The good news is they should be able to land either the CB or Safety from Texas, one should be available when they pick.

 

[simmonjm]

Great signing. He is coming from a weak secondary ...

Just spit-balling here, but is it because he was in it? Perhaps?

I dont know if the poor secondary play was because of Hamlin or not but I do know he is an upgrade over what Dallas has in Watkins.

I haven't watched Watkins enough to give an objective analysis, but I can assure you that desperation is the word of the day if Hamlin is an upgrade. There are two major problem with Hamlin's game.1. Hamlin made a name for himself as a rookie with a crushing hit on Donte Stallworth in Seattle. Stallworth's helmet went flying and he ending up on the bench saying something about Batman. I think Hamlin has been trying to duplicate that same hit ever since. He's constantly looking for the knockout blow instead of just making tackles. I lost count how many times I saw someone bounce off of him and keep running because he was trying to tackles with just his shoulder instead of attempting to wrap up.2. He gets torched deep. A lot. He's got his eyes in the backfield way too much. Some players can get away with it. He can't. He lacks the recovery speed.I don't doubt that Dallas was disappointed with the play from their FS last year, but I can assure that throwing money at Hamlin (one year contract?) is desperation at best. I expect Hamlin and Williams to make some highlight reels with big hits, but I also expect them to be giving up big plays way more often leading to Dallas losses.

Sounds like a description of Roy Williams. Hamlin didn't cost much, and I'm certain that he's better than Watkins, who appears to share many of the same negative traits with none of the positive.

This is exactly the problem. Roy Williams gets torched in pass coverage, and Hamlin won't be much better. The secondary will be chasing WRs all season long - unless they plan on a man-free (I think that's right) - 2 cover corners, 1 FS in the middle. Then they can have a nickel-like package with Roy W and Hamlin in the box for run support and covering the middle. That's unorthodox so I doubt that's a base coverage, but I don't think they'll do well in pass coverage if both of these guys are the only safeties on the field. That puts a lot of heat on the corners, which IIRC aren't that great.

Actually Dallas has one of better trio of CB's in the league. The problems in the secondary fell soley on the safties and not on the CB's. Dallas last year played a vanilla Cover 2 and had the safety's playing deep middle which definetly is not a strong suit for Roy Williams and Pat Watkins was still learning the position. Add in the fact that after Ellis went down early in the season Dallas was not able to provide any type of pass rush and you have a recipe for disaster. Signing Ken Hamlin is a great move IMO. First of all if Pat Watkins regresses Hamlin can step in. He also provides Watkins with a veteran presence and much needed competition at the FS position. Hamlin only signed a 1 year deal so he will playing for a contract next year which is always a good thing. Its funny how critical everyone is with every free agent signing for Dallas. Keep in mind that Hamlin was signed for only 2.5 million this season I dont see the harm in bringing him in. Even though critics have been harsh on Dallas IMO they are having one of the best off-seasons.

 

[Phil M]

I think it is a pretty good deal for Dallas. Hamlin is a good player and gives them depth. The only problem is that neither Williams nor Hamlin are considered good in coverage, so it will put a lot of pressure on the CBs; but, running against them will prove difficult.

Tell that to Hamlin and his ton of missed tackles last year.

Your right.A youg kid coming off of an injury will make 100% of his tackles the previous year.

While not a fan of Williams, Hamlin will prove to be a great deal of help to this secondary.

 

[mad sweeney]

I think it is a pretty good deal for Dallas. Hamlin is a good player and gives them depth. The only problem is that neither Williams nor Hamlin are considered good in coverage, so it will put a lot of pressure on the CBs; but, running against them will prove difficult.

Tell that to Hamlin and his ton of missed tackles last year.

Your right.A youg kid coming off of an injury will make 100% of his tackles the previous year.

While not a fan of Williams, Hamlin will prove to be a great deal of help to this secondary.

I don't believe he said anything about 100%. He's right. dunno how many times (other than less then 100%) he lowered his shoulder and missed instead of wrapping up and making a tackle. That's more than "coming off injury". He may very well be an upgrade to the Dallas secondary but he has some very bad habits that he had before he was clobbered by a street sign, that persisted in his game last season. he made D Player of the Week last year, so he has some good skills. But when you consider the INTs he got to deserve that honor were over/under throws that he was out of position enough to catch you'll see a different picture. FF, as well as Shick and myself, have watched every Seahawk game and know Seahawk players. You would do well to listen to those observations without flippant remarks.

 

[Tag]

I think it is a pretty good deal for Dallas. Hamlin is a good player and gives them depth. The only problem is that neither Williams nor Hamlin are considered good in coverage, so it will put a lot of pressure on the CBs; but, running against them will prove difficult.

Tell that to Hamlin and his ton of missed tackles last year.

Your right.A youg kid coming off of an injury will make 100% of his tackles the previous year.

While not a fan of Williams, Hamlin will prove to be a great deal of help to this secondary.

I don't believe he said anything about 100%. He's right. dunno how many times (other than less then 100%) he lowered his shoulder and missed instead of wrapping up and making a tackle. That's more than "coming off injury". He may very well be an upgrade to the Dallas secondary but he has some very bad habits that he had before he was clobbered by a street sign, that persisted in his game last season. he made D Player of the Week last year, so he has some good skills. But when you consider the INTs he got to deserve that honor were over/under throws that he was out of position enough to catch you'll see a different picture. FF, as well as Shick and myself, have watched every Seahawk game and know Seahawk players. You would do well to listen to those observations without flippant remarks.

That very well may be but Hamlin is an upgrade at the safety position and it isnt even close. One of the reasons Roy was getting burned was because he was constantly out of position due to trying to cover for the rookie watkins playing opposite of him. Hamlin came at a very friendly price and improves the secondary. As a fan thats all you can ask for the owner.I would still like them to grab the safety from Texas in rd1.

 

[Phurfur]

Great signing. He is coming from a weak secondary ...

Just spit-balling here, but is it because he was in it? Perhaps?

And Dallas has a strong secondary?

 

[Jene Bramel]

Forgive me for butting in, but I think most of the Dallas homers are missing the point of the Seattle homers. If you're looking for a guy to take the pressure off Williams and allow him to play in the box and be a consistent centerfield option, you aren't looking for a Ken Hamlin. Hamlin's skill set -- better near the box, inconsistent big hitter, poor coverage instincts -- looks very much like Williams'.

The guy you wanted was the guy Seattle signed -- Brian Russell. Seattle is turning over its safety corps for many of the same reasons. Money for Hamlin wasn't an issue -- tackling and cover ability was.

 

[BigTex]

Wade was on the Ticket with Norm Hitzges:

The base schemes and line up will be a 3-4.

Will use Ware like he used Merriman, rush the QB, rarely drop back in pass coverage.

Will bring Roy up in the box, use him to blitz more. It will be a more aggressive defense, attacking style.

 

[Tyrion]

Forgive me for butting in, but I think most of the Dallas homers are missing the point of the Seattle homers. If you're looking for a guy to take the pressure off Williams and allow him to play in the box and be a consistent centerfield option, you aren't looking for a Ken Hamlin. Hamlin's skill set -- better near the box, inconsistent big hitter, poor coverage instincts -- looks very much like Williams'.The guy you wanted was the guy Seattle signed -- Brian Russell. Seattle is turning over its safety corps for many of the same reasons. Money for Hamlin wasn't an issue -- tackling and cover ability was.

I like Russell fine but the funny thing is that Russell was a player that had nice stats for the Vikings and yet the Vikings kept trying to replace him because they felt he wasn't what they needed at free safety. Go figure. I am not sure what Russell signed for but I know the guy that is supposed to be taking Hamlin's spot is Deon Grant and he signed a 6 year deal with a good signing bonus. Funny thing about Grant is that Carolina didn't care much for him and the Jags obviously didn't feel like keeping him either. Each team has a different opinion of a player and sometimes that opinion is different depending on coaching styles and defensive philosophyWhat Seattle homers are missing is we don't care what their opinion of hamlin was in Seattle. It's not a huge deal because alot of us like Watkins and think he can be a good option with another year under his belt and a little good competition this summer. Hamlin signed a one year deal that Dallas could walk away from at any time if they feel like they got the wrong guy. Something tells me that the Dallas scouts and coaches watched 1 or 2 games that Hamlin played in and have an idea of what he brings to the team.

 

[Routilla]

LOL at all the Hamlin haters. I'm surprised Dallas signed him based on all of the EXPERT analysis in this thread. I'm sure you guys know better than the Dallas front office what they were looking for based on their needs and projected schemes. Again, lol.

 

[Jene Bramel]

Forgive me for butting in, but I think most of the Dallas homers are missing the point of the Seattle homers. If you're looking for a guy to take the pressure off Williams and allow him to play in the box and be a consistent centerfield option, you aren't looking for a Ken Hamlin. Hamlin's skill set -- better near the box, inconsistent big hitter, poor coverage instincts -- looks very much like Williams'.The guy you wanted was the guy Seattle signed -- Brian Russell. Seattle is turning over its safety corps for many of the same reasons. Money for Hamlin wasn't an issue -- tackling and cover ability was.

I like Russell fine but the funny thing is that Russell was a player that had nice stats for the Vikings and yet the Vikings kept trying to replace him because they felt he wasn't what they needed at free safety. Go figure. I am not sure what Russell signed for but I know the guy that is supposed to be taking Hamlin's spot is Deon Grant and he signed a 6 year deal with a good signing bonus. Funny thing about Grant is that Carolina didn't care much for him and the Jags obviously didn't feel like keeping him either. Each team has a different opinion of a player and sometimes that opinion is different depending on coaching styles and defensive philosophyWhat Seattle homers are missing is we don't care what their opinion of hamlin was in Seattle. It's not a huge deal because alot of us like Watkins and think he can be a good option with another year under his belt and a little good competition this summer. Hamlin signed a one year deal that Dallas could walk away from at any time if they feel like they got the wrong guy. Something tells me that the Dallas scouts and coaches watched 1 or 2 games that Hamlin played in and have an idea of what he brings to the team.

I've not said that Hamlin may not be worth taking a chance on. I get that different players are better fits in different schemes. We're discussing a deep cover safety that allows Williams to play closer to the line of scrimmage in run support. Many of us "non-experts" have made a well-reasoned argument that the 2006 version of Hamlin is not a good fit for the current Dallas scheme. I'm sure the Dallas coaches are looking for the 2005 version and are hoping the contract brings him back. For the record, neither Grant nor Russell were specifically signed to replace Hamlin. The Seahawks would be happy to completely gut last season's secondary. Boulware has become a complete mess and they'd prefer Babineaux in a third corner competition with Kelly Herndon. I chose Brian Russell because he's the better (and cheaper) FS option while Grant is more of an all-around guy. I could just as easily have chosen Kevin Kaesviharn, who the Saints felt was a better FS option than Hamlin.I'd like to see Hamlin do well next season. He's been a favorite of mine since he entered the league. I'd also like to see Roy Williams' talents put to best use. But, given that only two of the many teams who were/are actively looking for cover help at safety in today's NFL offered Hamlin a visit and only Dallas offered him a contract, I'd say we're not the only "experts" who came to a negative conclusion on Hamlin as a cover safety.

 

[fridayfrenzy]

LOL at all the Hamlin haters. I'm surprised Dallas signed him based on all of the EXPERT analysis in this thread. I'm sure you guys know better than the Dallas front office what they were looking for based on their needs and projected schemes. Again, lol.

LOL at all the Hamlin lovers.Isn't it ironic that it took Hamlin this long into Free Agency to get a contract, and the contract he HAS to take is a 1 year contract nonetheless. Yet, to all the Dallas homers Hamlin is such an awesome saefty who will answer all their questions at the Safety position. There is a reason Hamlin had difficulty getting a contract this offseason. It may be his head injury concerns, or the fact that teams just don't think he is as good as the Dallas homers believe.

 

[BigTex]

LOL at all the Hamlin haters. I'm surprised Dallas signed him based on all of the EXPERT analysis in this thread. I'm sure you guys know better than the Dallas front office what they were looking for based on their needs and projected schemes. Again, lol.

WTH! Deep in the Heart of Texas?This phrase is not big enough for the both of us.

 

[BigTex]

LOL at all the Hamlin haters. I'm surprised Dallas signed him based on all of the EXPERT analysis in this thread. I'm sure you guys know better than the Dallas front office what they were looking for based on their needs and projected schemes. Again, lol.

LOL at all the Hamlin lovers.Isn't it ironic that it took Hamlin this long into Free Agency to get a contract, and the contract he HAS to take is a 1 year contract nonetheless. Yet, to all the Dallas homers Hamlin is such an awesome saefty who will answer all their questions at the Safety position. There is a reason Hamlin had difficulty getting a contract this offseason. It may be his head injury concerns, or the fact that teams just don't think he is as good as the Dallas homers believe.

"Yet, to all the Dallas homers?" Really? Make assumptions much?

 

[Routilla]

LOL at all the Hamlin lovers.Yet, to all the Dallas homers Hamlin is such an awesome saefty who will answer all their questions at the Safety position.

This is the first I've heard of anyone saying anything about Hamlin being awesome and being the answer to any questions they may have had. For the same reasons you think he lasted into free agency I consider it a good signing. He didn't cost much and it will not be a big deal if he doesn't work out. Good analysis. Sorry he didn't work out for you in SEA.

 

[Tag]

LOL at all the Hamlin haters. I'm surprised Dallas signed him based on all of the EXPERT analysis in this thread. I'm sure you guys know better than the Dallas front office what they were looking for based on their needs and projected schemes. Again, lol.

LOL at all the Hamlin lovers.Isn't it ironic that it took Hamlin this long into Free Agency to get a contract, and the contract he HAS to take is a 1 year contract nonetheless. Yet, to all the Dallas homers Hamlin is such an awesome saefty who will answer all their questions at the Safety position.

So dallas should've stayed with Watkins at safety making them worse. That sure makes sense.

 

[Routilla]

LOL at all the Hamlin haters. I'm surprised Dallas signed him based on all of the EXPERT analysis in this thread. I'm sure you guys know better than the Dallas front office what they were looking for based on their needs and projected schemes. Again, lol.

WTH! Deep in the Heart of Texas?This phrase is not big enough for the both of us.

I forgot to update my sig Tex. I moved to Colorado in Feb. and will adjust it. But know that all rights to the Star will transfer without incident. I am proud to share my Cowboys heritage with another and welcome any adversaries who need to be educated in the historical accomplishments of the Dallas Cowboys.

 

[BigTex]

LOL at all the Hamlin haters. I'm surprised Dallas signed him based on all of the EXPERT analysis in this thread. I'm sure you guys know better than the Dallas front office what they were looking for based on their needs and projected schemes. Again, lol.

WTH! Deep in the Heart of Texas?This phrase is not big enough for the both of us.

I forgot to update my sig Tex. I moved to Colorado in Feb. and will adjust it. But know that all rights to the Star will transfer without incident. I am proud to share my Cowboys heritage with another and welcome any adversaries who need to be educated in the historical accomplishments of the Dallas Cowboys.

No problem, I not sure to say congratulations on the move "from" Texas to Colorado or not. As long as to took the star with you it doesn't matter.

 

[Kleck]

LOL at all the Hamlin haters. I'm surprised Dallas signed him based on all of the EXPERT analysis in this thread. I'm sure you guys know better than the Dallas front office what they were looking for based on their needs and projected schemes. Again, lol.

I've watched every play of his career. I'm often taking detailed notes for game recaps that I write for this site. If you think I have some sort of agenda, well, okay. Believe what you will. Time will tell. I don't wish Hamlin or the Cowboys ill will. Just calling it like I see it.

 

[Kleck]

So dallas should've stayed with Watkins at safety making them worse. That sure makes sense.

I don't think I've heard anyone say that. Has someone tried to make that point?

 

[Tag]

So dallas should've stayed with Watkins at safety making them worse. That sure makes sense.

I don't think I've heard anyone say that. Has someone tried to make that point?

People are knocking Dallas for signing this guy which tells me they were better off without him. I dont agree with that at all since I watch every dallas game. Hamlin regardless of what people think of him is STILL an upgrade at the position over watkins. Thats the bottom line for me as a fan. Im still hoping they draft the safety from texas in rd1 since hamlin was only signed for a year i believe.

 

[Kleck]

So dallas should've stayed with Watkins at safety making them worse. That sure makes sense.

I don't think I've heard anyone say that. Has someone tried to make that point?

People are knocking Dallas for signing this guy which tells me they were better off without him.

No it doesn't. Everyone means exactly what they've said. They might better off with him, but the difference will be close to insignificant. Hamlin is not the cure for what ills them, and he's certainly no quarterback in the defensive backfield or team leader by any stretch of the imagination. I expect him to make a few big hits, miss some key tackles, get flagged for a handful of personal fouls, pick off a few passes, and get burned deep on occasion. The size and length of his contract tells it all. He is basically a roll of the dice for one year.

 

[ex-ghost]

Like Shick! said, Hamlin has lived off his reputation of one hit, a great one at that, but he can't tackle worth beans. From a Seattle homer - good luck Dallas, he may make the highlight reel on ESPN, but he won't make the basic tackles that you need every game.

 

[cowboyz]

I've watched every play of his career. I'm often taking detailed notes for game recaps that I write for this site.

Wade: Ken's a guy who can roam the middle and help the rest of the secondary. He can do that, we looked at the first 6 games of last year and that's what he did, after that they had to make adjustments to their defense, but he's at home in the middle.

 

[Kleck]

I've watched every play of his career. I'm often taking detailed notes for game recaps that I write for this site.

Wade: Ken's a guy who can roam the middle and help the rest of the secondary. He can do that, we looked at the first 6 games of last year and that's what he did, after that they had to make adjustments to their defense, but he's at home in the middle.

Okay. We disagree. What's your point?I can see their drooling over the opportunity to put Hamlin in the middle of their defense. His contract speaks so loudly I don't hear any of the coach-speak.I'm not telling you Hamlin will be terrible. I'm telling you he's not much of an upgrade to the current situation. When I read "great signing" multiple times in the thread it bothers me. Perhaps I have a different definition of great. Adequate might be the better word. Time will tell.

 

[Tag]

I've watched every play of his career. I'm often taking detailed notes for game recaps that I write for this site.

Wade: Ken's a guy who can roam the middle and help the rest of the secondary. He can do that, we looked at the first 6 games of last year and that's what he did, after that they had to make adjustments to their defense, but he's at home in the middle. :(

Okay. We disagree. What's your point?I can see their drooling over the opportunity to put Hamlin in the middle of their defense. His contract speaks so loudly I don't hear any of the coach-speak.I'm not telling you Hamlin will be terrible. I'm telling you he's not much of an upgrade to the current situation. When I read "great signing" multiple times in the thread it bothers me. Perhaps I have a different definition of great. Adequate might be the better word. Time will tell.

If the Dallas front seven can find away to consistantly put pressure on the QB "adequate" safety play might be all that they need.

 

[Tyrion]

I've watched every play of his career. I'm often taking detailed notes for game recaps that I write for this site.

Wade: Ken's a guy who can roam the middle and help the rest of the secondary. He can do that, we looked at the first 6 games of last year and that's what he did, after that they had to make adjustments to their defense, but he's at home in the middle.

Okay. We disagree. What's your point?I can see their drooling over the opportunity to put Hamlin in the middle of their defense. His contract speaks so loudly I don't hear any of the coach-speak.I'm not telling you Hamlin will be terrible. I'm telling you he's not much of an upgrade to the current situation. When I read "great signing" multiple times in the thread it bothers me. Perhaps I have a different definition of great. Adequate might be the better word. Time will tell.

If the Dallas front seven can find away to consistantly put pressure on the QB "adequate" safety play might be all that they need.

Its a great signing because he is a veteran safety that they got for a one year deal and it means that they are not going into next year with just Watkins and Davis. It also gives him every motivation to do very well this year. If Hamlin had been a sure thing he would have required a much bigger committment to sign. As it happens his risk/reward fits perfectly with what Dallas was looking for in a safety. Personally I would have preferred Sammy Knight but he was released late and given his age he probably will want a 2-3 year deal.

 

[cowboyz]

I've watched every play of his career. I'm often taking detailed notes for game recaps that I write for this site.

Wade: Ken's a guy who can roam the middle and help the rest of the secondary. He can do that, we looked at the first 6 games of last year and that's what he did, after that they had to make adjustments to their defense, but he's at home in the middle.

Okay. We disagree. What's your point?

so what is wade seeing what adjustments is he talking about? or are you saying no adjustments were made? you said you watched the tape, i'm trying to get more insight into what wade sees and what you see as far as schemes and usage. rather than this BS, he will be good he won't be good.

 

[Kleck]

... i'm trying to get more insight into what wade sees and what you see as far as schemes and usage. rather than this BS, he will be good he won't be good.

Here were my specific observations from above.

1. Hamlin made a name for himself as a rookie with a crushing hit on Donte Stallworth in Seattle. Stallworth's helmet went flying and he ending up on the bench saying something about Batman. I think Hamlin has been trying to duplicate that same hit ever since. He's constantly looking for the knockout blow instead of just making tackles. I lost count how many times I saw someone bounce off of him and keep running because he was trying to tackles with just his shoulder instead of attempting to wrap up.2. He gets torched deep. A lot. He's got his eyes in the backfield way too much. Some players can get away with it. He can't. He lacks the recovery speed.

Will scheme somehow hide these weaknesses? I doubt it. Good fundamentals are necessary regardless of scheme. Again, I think this is a good example of simple coach-speak.This horse is close to being beaten to death. Why would I take issue with this particular player? Because I feel I know him backwards and forwards and I'm calling it what it is. A one year temporary fix. By my standards its not a "great" signing. Its a calculated gamble.

 

[Tag]

A one year fix is fine with me. It will give the 1st round rookie pick a year to learn the ropes but that first round pick had better be CB or Safety.

 

[Jene Bramel]

I've watched every play of his career. I'm often taking detailed notes for game recaps that I write for this site.

Wade: Ken's a guy who can roam the middle and help the rest of the secondary. He can do that, we looked at the first 6 games of last year and that's what he did, after that they had to make adjustments to their defense, but he's at home in the middle.

Okay. We disagree. What's your point?

so what is wade seeing what adjustments is he talking about? or are you saying no adjustments were made? you said you watched the tape, i'm trying to get more insight into what wade sees and what you see as far as schemes and usage. rather than this BS, he will be good he won't be good.

The adjustment was that SS Michael Boulware was benched after six games in favor of Jordan Babineaux. Hamlin is better in the box than Babineaux and was used more often in the box, although all three continued to be horrid tacklers. That adjustment actually started to take place even earlier as Boulware was pulled during the STL game in Week 6 (fifth game). As has been said bunches of times elsewhere in the thread, Phillips is aware that Hamlin was used as more of a roving FS in the first six weeks and during his better seasons in 2003 and 2004. He's hoping that he gets the pre-2005 Hamlin.