****OFFICIAL**** 2008 Washington Redskins Off Season Thread! (1 Viewer)

[Marvelous]

I wonder why they have no interest in Lemar Marshall. He played decenly outside in Arrington's last year. He had one decent and one poor season as a starting middle linebacker. If he is cheap (like the veteran minimum), he could provide good depth at LB.

Probably because he'll be 32 this year, is coming off a pretty serious injury (ruptured Achilles) and he was no more than an average LB before the injury.I'd rather re-sign Randall Godfrey for the vet min.

Thanks. I did not realize Marshall was that old and coming off a serious injury. Makes more sense now.

 

[Bizkiteer]

I guess Hackett couldn't hack it out at The Park. Wonder if Zorn wasn't just doing him a favor by showing interest to make others (TB & CAR) have to act. Of course, nobody knew who the others were, but maybe he was helping out a kid he thought needed it.

 

[fatness]

Maybe Hackett left with a general offer from the Redskins, to see if he can shop it around and try to get someone else to beat it.

Or maybe they just didn't like him. "Gosh Mr. Cerrato, you're not nearly as much of an ####### as everyone says you are."

 

[fatness]

This makes it sound like an offer was made to Hackett, but doesn't actually say it was.

Redskins await decision from Hackett

..........But that doesn't mean Hackett, who today became the first free agent to visit Washington this offseason, is going to wind up with the Redskins. "This will all be up to him," Zorn said of Hackett, who declined comment. "We're not going to risk it all to try to pay him. The financial package has to work. But if we have a chance to get him, we'd like to have him. He's got two other teams plus Seattle that wants to match [his contract offers]."

Hackett left Redskin Park with Tampa Bay and Carolina on his itinerary with a return to Seattle also seriously possible...........

Edited to add this from PFT:

HACKETT GETS OFFER FROM ‘SKINS

Posted by Mike Florio on March 13, 2008, 4:50 p.m.

Seahawks receiver D.J. Hackett visited the Redskins, got an offer, and didn’t accept it.

According to the Washington Times, Hackett will explore other options before making a decision.

 

[Bizkiteer]

Gut feeling here...

I think the FO has gotten smarter about the spending to a degree, but I think there is more to the story. I am a believer that we have one of the best front offices in that we have always worked the cap the best with re-structuring and bonuses paid. Though we sit with a 8 million under tha cap, I wonder if being hesitant to sign players this season is a realization that it's catching up to us. Has it swung to the complete opposite side because we need to come up for air? Granted the FA pool this year was not outstanding and didn't hold a ton of players that we needed, but to not improve any of our depth(even if it's 2nd, 3rd string or ST players)?

So, kudos for not overspending, but I'm hesitant to crown the FO/organization with the actual saving since I'm not sure if it's truly genuine.

Anyone else feel this way?

 

[redman]

Gut feeling here...I think the FO has gotten smarter about the spending to a degree, but I think there is more to the story. I am a believer that we have one of the best front offices in that we have always worked the cap the best with re-structuring and bonuses paid. Though we sit with a 8 million under tha cap, I wonder if being hesitant to sign players this season is a realization that it's catching up to us. Has it swung to the complete opposite side because we need to come up for air? Granted the FA pool this year was not outstanding and didn't hold a ton of players that we needed, but to not improve any of our depth(even if it's 2nd, 3rd string or ST players)?So, kudos for not overspending, but I'm hesitant to crown the FO/organization with the actual saving since I'm not sure if it's truly genuine.Anyone else feel this way?

Someone (Tandler?) has already written that he suspects some of the restructuring/non-spending this offseason has much to do with a major set of roster moves in 2009 given the age of the team and the need to rebuild a lot of the roster. Look at the list of starters who will be in their 30's by the start of the 2009 season, and you start to realize that there's a lot of truth to this:MossRandle ElSellers (assumes he's starting FB)SamuelsKendallRabachThomasJansenGriffinCarterDaniels (probably a non-starter)WashingtonFletcherSpringsDepending upon who you believe is a starter this is either 12/22 or up to 14/22 of the starting roster, a VERY significant proportion no matter how you slice it. Now, I don't envision them being in a hurry to jettison Moss or ARE or probably Carter, but the others . . .

 

[Bizkiteer]

Gut feeling here...I think the FO has gotten smarter about the spending to a degree, but I think there is more to the story. I am a believer that we have one of the best front offices in that we have always worked the cap the best with re-structuring and bonuses paid. Though we sit with a 8 million under tha cap, I wonder if being hesitant to sign players this season is a realization that it's catching up to us. Has it swung to the complete opposite side because we need to come up for air? Granted the FA pool this year was not outstanding and didn't hold a ton of players that we needed, but to not improve any of our depth(even if it's 2nd, 3rd string or ST players)?So, kudos for not overspending, but I'm hesitant to crown the FO/organization with the actual saving since I'm not sure if it's truly genuine.Anyone else feel this way?

Someone (Tandler?) has already written that he suspects some of the restructuring/non-spending this offseason has much to do with a major set of roster moves in 2009 given the age of the team and the need to rebuild a lot of the roster. Look at the list of starters who will be in their 30's by the start of the 2009 season, and you start to realize that there's a lot of truth to this:MossRandle ElSellers (assumes he's starting FB)SamuelsKendallRabachThomasJansenGriffinCarterDaniels (probably a non-starter)WashingtonFletcherSpringsDepending upon who you believe is a starter this is either 12/22 or up to 14/22 of the starting roster, a VERY significant proportion no matter how you slice it. Now, I don't envision them being in a hurry to jettison Moss or ARE or probably Carter, but the others . . .

You might have given the best evidence yet to support the theory my friend!

 

[Sidewinder16]

USA Today has a panel of 8 "NFL experts" mocking the 1st round, and they had an update yesterday.

4 have the 'Skins going DL (Calais Campbell [twice], Phillip Merling or Kentwan Balmer), 3 picked WR (all chose Limas Sweed) and one guy went with S Kenny Phillips.

 

[Marvelous]

Gut feeling here...I think the FO has gotten smarter about the spending to a degree, but I think there is more to the story. I am a believer that we have one of the best front offices in that we have always worked the cap the best with re-structuring and bonuses paid. Though we sit with a 8 million under tha cap, I wonder if being hesitant to sign players this season is a realization that it's catching up to us. Has it swung to the complete opposite side because we need to come up for air? Granted the FA pool this year was not outstanding and didn't hold a ton of players that we needed, but to not improve any of our depth(even if it's 2nd, 3rd string or ST players)?So, kudos for not overspending, but I'm hesitant to crown the FO/organization with the actual saving since I'm not sure if it's truly genuine.Anyone else feel this way?

I posted this on March 3rd in post 1401:

I was just thinking: The Redskins restructured a number of contracts to get under the cap and I think they only extened one person. A lot of these players are getting up there in age. If the front office expects to part ways with them in the near future, there could be a lot of cap hits coming up in the next few years. That could mean the Redskins actually can't afford to sign many free agents. in the next 2-3 years, the folloiwng players could be let go: Jansen, Marcus Washington, Griffin, Springs (he may be in the last year of his contract), and Daniels. The Redskins need to keep future cap space available in for when these guys leave.

 

[DCThunder]

I've also read/heard the theory that the restraint on FA spending has to do with Danny's losses and general problems on the Six Flags deal and other parts of his financial empire. Who knows?

 

[Bizkiteer]

Gut feeling here...I think the FO has gotten smarter about the spending to a degree, but I think there is more to the story. I am a believer that we have one of the best front offices in that we have always worked the cap the best with re-structuring and bonuses paid. Though we sit with a 8 million under tha cap, I wonder if being hesitant to sign players this season is a realization that it's catching up to us. Has it swung to the complete opposite side because we need to come up for air? Granted the FA pool this year was not outstanding and didn't hold a ton of players that we needed, but to not improve any of our depth(even if it's 2nd, 3rd string or ST players)?So, kudos for not overspending, but I'm hesitant to crown the FO/organization with the actual saving since I'm not sure if it's truly genuine.Anyone else feel this way?

I posted this on March 3rd in post 1401:

I was just thinking: The Redskins restructured a number of contracts to get under the cap and I think they only extened one person. A lot of these players are getting up there in age. If the front office expects to part ways with them in the near future, there could be a lot of cap hits coming up in the next few years. That could mean the Redskins actually can't afford to sign many free agents. in the next 2-3 years, the folloiwng players could be let go: Jansen, Marcus Washington, Griffin, Springs (he may be in the last year of his contract), and Daniels. The Redskins need to keep future cap space available in for when these guys leave.

I think it very could be the guys they will have to cut and the limited ability to re-structure more contracts. There are only so many times you can ask a guy to re-work their pay.

 

[Bizkiteer]

I've also read/heard the theory that the restraint on FA spending has to do with Danny's losses and general problems on the Six Flags deal and other parts of his financial empire. Who knows?

I doubt any of the outside ventures have anything to do with the 'Skins. Not a good business practice to mix the two or more...Though I suppose it could alter his thinking on how adventurous he feels with spending money.

 

[dgreen]

I've also read/heard the theory that the restraint on FA spending has to do with Danny's losses and general problems on the Six Flags deal and other parts of his financial empire. Who knows?

I doubt any of the outside ventures have anything to do with the 'Skins. Not a good business practice to mix the two or more...Though I suppose it could alter his thinking on how adventurous he feels with spending money.

I agree. I seriously doubt the two are related.This sounds like something Andy and Steve would start saying or hear someone say and latch onto it. They say some crazy things. For example, last night, Andy started a whole segment by saying, "I get the feeling they aren't sold on Campbell so they'll probably bring a guy like Trent Dilfer." He didn't support his statement at all by saying he had a source or using some quote from an article. He seemed to just throw it out there. I think they just needed to fill a segment and they generally aren't capable of real in depth discussions. That's unfortunate, too, since they tend to have good guests that could really offer great insight.

 

[fatness]

"We're not spending because we choose not to spend at the present time," Cerrato said. "If there would have been somebody out there, or a situation that occurs that warrants us to take a look at it, we would. And if it cost money, we would have looked at an individual who was high-priced if we felt like it was something that made sense for us. In our opinion, there was nothing like we felt we wanted to get into a bidding war over for the Redskins. After our evaluations, what we needed and what was out there really wasn't a fit. Whether it be financially, or whether they [certain players] wouldn't fit in our locker room, there's a lot of issues that have to be evaluated."

 

[fatness]

Hackett Still on Redskins' Wish List

The Washington Redskins are waiting for free agent wide receiver D.J. Hackett to decide on their contract offer before pursuing other options at the position, a league source said yesterday, and the team still is in contact with the agent for wide receiver Reche Caldwell.

The Redskins offered Hackett a contract during his two-day visit this week, hoping the four-year veteran would immediately sign with them, but Hackett instead continued his free agent tour. After leaving Redskins Park on Thursday, Hackett was scheduled to meet with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers.

The Redskins are interested in re-signing Caldwell, who initially signed with the team on Sept. 11. Inactive for most of the first half of last season, Caldwell made timely catches down the stretch while contributing to the Redskins' late-season run to a playoff berth.

"We're talking," said Caldwell's agent, Tony Fleming. "There's not a lot going on right now, but we'll see what happens."

 

[fatness]

Charlotte.com

We're told that Seattle free agent wide receiver D.J. Hackett has made it to Charlotte. Now the question is whether the Panthers can convince him to play for them.

Hackett flew to town earlier today after visiting Washington and Tampa Bay on consecutive days. His stay here is supposed to last into Saturday.

Then he'll decide whether to stay with the Seahawks or pick one of the other three teams.

 

[fatness]

Darrell Jackson just got cut.

 

[southeastjerome]

Charlotte.com

We're told that Seattle free agent wide receiver D.J. Hackett has made it to Charlotte. Now the question is whether the Panthers can convince him to play for them.

Hackett flew to town earlier today after visiting Washington and Tampa Bay on consecutive days. His stay here is supposed to last into Saturday.

Then he'll decide whether to stay with the Seahawks or pick one of the other three teams.

As someone alluded to before, this is sounding more and more as if Hackett is seeing what he will get for offers to bring them to Seattle to match. At this point, I'd be very surprised if he signed with the Redskins.

 

[redman]

Charlotte.com

We're told that Seattle free agent wide receiver D.J. Hackett has made it to Charlotte. Now the question is whether the Panthers can convince him to play for them.

Hackett flew to town earlier today after visiting Washington and Tampa Bay on consecutive days. His stay here is supposed to last into Saturday.

Then he'll decide whether to stay with the Seahawks or pick one of the other three teams.

As someone alluded to before, this is sounding more and more as if Hackett is seeing what he will get for offers to bring them to Seattle to match. At this point, I'd be very surprised if he signed with the Redskins.

I'm not sure how much he favors Seattle over the other options, but I have concluded that the one edge I thought we had in signing him - Zorn - doesn't seem to mean very much. I think Hackett would be an excellent signing and I'd like for us to make an effort to get him, but if it involves breaking the bank then I guess we'll have to live without him.

 

[fatness]

Pretty detailed article by Gregg Trippiedi.

How Long can the Redskins Keep the Young Guys?

The Redskins find themselves in an envious position during the 2008 season. The team will not have any young players who will necessitate a new contract before the end of the season. All of the young talent on the team is restricted to the Redskins through at least the 2009 season.

Of course, this can be directed attributed to the fact that the Redskins have no restricted free agents this season, which in itself can be attributed to the fact that the Redskins have two players on the roster who were rookies in 2005, and both of them (Jason Campbell, Carlos Rogers) were first round picks. Campbell is under contract through 2009, and Rogers’ contract is through 2011, but he can void either or both of his last two years. In addition to those guys, Defensive Tackle Anthony Montgomery will be an unrestricted free agent after 2009, the same year that linemate Kedric Golston will join him. Rocky McIntosh…same year. The year after that, it’s HB Blades who will be primed to hit the market.

The Washington Redskins need to use the advantage they have right now in 2008 to assist them in successfully budgeting enough space to fit 3-4 new contracts in under the cap. While the team would be best to wait until 2009 to soften the blow of the new contracts, they should go in with a plan right now to prepare to fit a lot of extra money under the cap.

The NFL has not announced an increase in the size of the salary cap for the 2009 season yet. Currently the cap sits at $116 million per team per year. It will, in all likelyhood, exceed $120 million in 2009 (Brandon Lloyd’s cap number will become 2009 dead cap on 6/1, creating a null effect on the cap). Currently, the Redskins are sitting at or around the projected 2009 cap. This is a big difference from the $15ish million over the cap the team was in 2008.

The 2008 rookie pool will put between 5-6 million in salary on the 2009 cap, and the Redskins are still a threat to sign DJ Hackett, which would put that number in the area of 7.5 million if successful. So the team is probably going to head into the 2009 offseason anywhere between 5-10 million under the cap.

The big deal here (pun totally intended) is Jason Campbell. I have, on this blog, a few times compared Jason Campbell’s level of performance to that of Ben Roethlisberger. Well, Roethlisberger just signed a deal that averages 13 million dollars a year. Now, Jason Campbell is not the idol in Washington that Roethlisberger is in Pittsburgh, and will not command nearly as much money, but at the very least the Redskins should probably expect to give Campbell about 7 million a year. His contract will probably be in the vicinity of 50 million dollars over 7 years with 20 million in guaranteed money. That guarenteed money figure means the Redskins are going to be paying Campbell around 3.5-4 million right when he signs his deal, and 9-10 million a year on the back end of it. Currently, the Redskins aren’t even scheduled to give Campbell $2 million in 2009, so we can expect about a $2 million spike in his cap number.

The team will likely have to make a choice between Montgomery and Golston. One will walk and sign somewhere else in 2010, the other will see his big money in 2009. The going rate on mid-level caliber defensive tackles appears to be in the 20-30 million dollar range, with 8-10 in guarenteed money. Talking cap numbers, that’s only about 2-2.5 million dollars for the first year or two of a 6 year deal. That isn’t a whole lot more than the team would be paying them under the RFA tender anyway, but it is how you would lock Anthony Montgomery up.

Rogers’ agent will almost certainly void his last two years if he can re-establish himself as a starting corner in this league. He would be voiding about 3.5 million dollars, but a nickelback can easily get that on the open market in terms of a signing bonus. If the Redskins feel like Carlos can be a part of the team beyond 2009, they will probably want to get to work on his deal sometime during that season. Carlos may not have a lot of leverage at that point, especially if he doesn’t break the starting lineup in the next two years. However, his development was right on schedule prior to the knee injury, and should he finish 2008 as the team’s top corner, we are talking 15 million to sign the guy long term. In 2009 terms, thats a small raise, but by 2010, the team will really be committed to Rogers if they re-do his deal.

The odd man out here is potentially Rocky McIntosh.

Aticle continues from there.

 

[redman]

Pretty detailed article by Gregg Trippiedi.

How Long can the Redskins Keep the Young Guys?

The Redskins find themselves in an envious position during the 2008 season. The team will not have any young players who will necessitate a new contract before the end of the season. All of the young talent on the team is restricted to the Redskins through at least the 2009 season.

The obtuse response here is, "Yeah, thank God they don't have to deal with resigning Sean Taylor." The point of the article, though, is correct. The Eagles, who do do a good job with retaining their young talent, tend to extend contracts the year before they have to. It's good policy, and in the long run I think they tend to get those players to extend for a little less money than they would if they waited. It's a trade off, but there are benefits too.

 

[fatness]

Is Jason Campbell a good fit for the West Coast Offense?

Campbell, however, was drafted to play in a Gibbs-esque power offense that max protects, runs alot, and throws predominantly downfield off play-action. The attributes Joe Gibbs always sought in his quarterbacks were toughness, size, arm strength, and intelligence. Jason fits that description fairly well, and likely would have done well in such an offense.

The West Coast offense puts emphasis on accuracy, timing, anticipation, quick release, and mobility. Jason fits this description less well. He does have mobility, and his intelligence implies that with time he might be able to acquire the other attributes, but as of today, it seems like a poor fit.

 

[southeastjerome]

Pretty detailed article by Gregg Trippiedi.

How Long can the Redskins Keep the Young Guys?

The Redskins find themselves in an envious position during the 2008 season. The team will not have any young players who will necessitate a new contract before the end of the season. All of the young talent on the team is restricted to the Redskins through at least the 2009 season.

The obtuse response here is, "Yeah, thank God they don't have to deal with resigning Sean Taylor." The point of the article, though, is correct. The Eagles, who do do a good job with retaining their young talent, tend to extend contracts the year before they have to. It's good policy, and in the long run I think they tend to get those players to extend for a little less money than they would if they waited. It's a trade off, but there are benefits too.

Yes, I agree. I would love to see them wrap up one or both of the young DT's before the end of next season and the same goes for Carlos if he proves to be healthy. Hopefully the early re-signing of Cooley last year is a sign of things to come. Does anyone think that the Skins didn't get a bargain compared to what he would have gotten on the open market? It could be even more of a bargain with less heralded players like Monty and Golston. Who knows, if both of those guys make it to free agency they could be looking at $18 million guaranteed like Tommy Kelly got. Imagine what the Raiders could have extended Kelly for last September or October.

 

[redman]

Is Jason Campbell a good fit for the West Coast Offense?

Campbell, however, was drafted to play in a Gibbs-esque power offense that max protects, runs alot, and throws predominantly downfield off play-action. The attributes Joe Gibbs always sought in his quarterbacks were toughness, size, arm strength, and intelligence. Jason fits that description fairly well, and likely would have done well in such an offense.

The West Coast offense puts emphasis on accuracy, timing, anticipation, quick release, and mobility. Jason fits this description less well. He does have mobility, and his intelligence implies that with time he might be able to acquire the other attributes, but as of today, it seems like a poor fit.

A year ago, I would have basically agreed with this, but Campbell's seeming loss of his accuracy on deep routes that he was so impressive with in 2006, now has me wondering whether his best passes aren't intermediate crossing routes between the hash marks (e.g. that Cooley TD against Carolina), and on designed roll outs. I really don't know anymore. He did run the WCO well in college in a major conference, so that plus what I'm hoping is more consistency in his coaching and system bodes well for him.

 

[Lowen1]

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpag...NFL&id=2642

QUOTE

Scout.com's Adam Caplan reports the Panthers and WR D.J. Hackett have reached agreement on a two-year, $3.5 million contract.

While Hackett has dealt with injuries, he's been highly productive when healthy and is only 26. In Carolina, he becomes the top candidate to start opposite Steve Smith with Muhsin Muhammad likely working from the slot. Dwayne Jarrett will compete with Ryne Robinson to be the fourth receiver. Hackett has vertical and red-zone ability and should draw some attention away from Smith. His addition is good news for all Panthers skill players besides Jarrett. Expect solid WR3/4 numbers if Hackett starts.

Doesn't seem like much money - wonder what Snyderato offered???

 

[fatness]

A year ago, I would have basically agreed with this, but Campbell's seeming loss of his accuracy on deep routes that he was so impressive with in 2006, now has me wondering whether his best passes aren't intermediate crossing routes between the hash marks (e.g. that Cooley TD against Carolina), and on designed roll outs. I really don't know anymore.

I kind of lost any clear picture of Campbell's abilities last year when the offesive line broke down. For several games he was under heavy pressure that seemed to make him uncertain at times, and to make wrong decisions at times. It was enough pressure that it would have rattled any number of QB's. During that time I feel like I lost track of his abilities, and then after that he was hurt for the rest of the year. So I don't have a real clear picture of him either.I do think he's very intelligent and doesn't plan on either shying away from work or relinquishing the starting job, so I'm fairly optimistic that he'll be OK with Zorn and the new offense. I think the first 4-8 games may be a bit ragged, but by the end of the year (assuming no major O-line injuries) I won't be surprised if he's leading a productive offense.

 

[southeastjerome]

JLC Blog

Posted at 12:49 PM ET, 03/17/2008

Hackett agrees to offer -- from Carolina

Free agent wide receiver D.J. Hackett won't be joining the Redskins. Hackett, who held a contract offer from the Redskins, reportedly agreed to a two-year, $3.5-million contract with the Carolina Panthers.

Washington's offer wasn't close to what Hackett received from the Panthers, a league source said, and now the Redskins are waiting for wide receiver Reche Caldwell to decide on their offer to him. Caldwell still is considering his options, agent Tony Fleming said.

What on earth did they offer if that wasn't close? The vet minimum and a Dodge Stratus?

 

[redman]

A year ago, I would have basically agreed with this, but Campbell's seeming loss of his accuracy on deep routes that he was so impressive with in 2006, now has me wondering whether his best passes aren't intermediate crossing routes between the hash marks (e.g. that Cooley TD against Carolina), and on designed roll outs. I really don't know anymore.

I kind of lost any clear picture of Campbell's abilities last year when the offesive line broke down. For several games he was under heavy pressure that seemed to make him uncertain at times, and to make wrong decisions at times. It was enough pressure that it would have rattled any number of QB's. During that time I feel like I lost track of his abilities, and then after that he was hurt for the rest of the year. So I don't have a real clear picture of him either.I do think he's very intelligent and doesn't plan on either shying away from work or relinquishing the starting job, so I'm fairly optimistic that he'll be OK with Zorn and the new offense. I think the first 4-8 games may be a bit ragged, but by the end of the year (assuming no major O-line injuries) I won't be surprised if he's leading a productive offense.

JLC Blog

Posted at 12:49 PM ET, 03/17/2008

Hackett agrees to offer -- from Carolina

Free agent wide receiver D.J. Hackett won't be joining the Redskins. Hackett, who held a contract offer from the Redskins, reportedly agreed to a two-year, $3.5-million contract with the Carolina Panthers.

Washington's offer wasn't close to what Hackett received from the Panthers, a league source said, and now the Redskins are waiting for wide receiver Reche Caldwell to decide on their offer to him. Caldwell still is considering his options, agent Tony Fleming said.

What on earth did they offer if that wasn't close? The vet minimum and a Dodge Stratus?

X2

 

[Marvelous]

JLC Blog

Posted at 12:49 PM ET, 03/17/2008

Hackett agrees to offer -- from Carolina

Free agent wide receiver D.J. Hackett won't be joining the Redskins. Hackett, who held a contract offer from the Redskins, reportedly agreed to a two-year, $3.5-million contract with the Carolina Panthers.

Washington's offer wasn't close to what Hackett received from the Panthers, a league source said, and now the Redskins are waiting for wide receiver Reche Caldwell to decide on their offer to him. Caldwell still is considering his options, agent Tony Fleming said.

What on earth did they offer if that wasn't close? The vet minimum and a Dodge Stratus?

Wow. After handing out the big contracts to Lloyd and Randle El two years ago to be WR #2 and #3, I though Hackett would be worth $2-3M per year.

 

[Marvelous]

Pretty detailed article by Gregg Trippiedi.

How Long can the Redskins Keep the Young Guys?

The Redskins find themselves in an envious position during the 2008 season. The team will not have any young players who will necessitate a new contract before the end of the season. All of the young talent on the team is restricted to the Redskins through at least the 2009 season.

Of course, this can be directed attributed to the fact that the Redskins have no restricted free agents this season, which in itself can be attributed to the fact that the Redskins have two players on the roster who were rookies in 2005, and both of them (Jason Campbell, Carlos Rogers) were first round picks. Campbell is under contract through 2009, and Rogers’ contract is through 2011, but he can void either or both of his last two years. In addition to those guys, Defensive Tackle Anthony Montgomery will be an unrestricted free agent after 2009, the same year that linemate Kedric Golston will join him. Rocky McIntosh…same year. The year after that, it’s HB Blades who will be primed to hit the market.

The Washington Redskins need to use the advantage they have right now in 2008 to assist them in successfully budgeting enough space to fit 3-4 new contracts in under the cap. While the team would be best to wait until 2009 to soften the blow of the new contracts, they should go in with a plan right now to prepare to fit a lot of extra money under the cap.

The NFL has not announced an increase in the size of the salary cap for the 2009 season yet. Currently the cap sits at $116 million per team per year. It will, in all likelyhood, exceed $120 million in 2009 (Brandon Lloyd’s cap number will become 2009 dead cap on 6/1, creating a null effect on the cap). Currently, the Redskins are sitting at or around the projected 2009 cap. This is a big difference from the $15ish million over the cap the team was in 2008.

The 2008 rookie pool will put between 5-6 million in salary on the 2009 cap, and the Redskins are still a threat to sign DJ Hackett, which would put that number in the area of 7.5 million if successful. So the team is probably going to head into the 2009 offseason anywhere between 5-10 million under the cap.

The big deal here (pun totally intended) is Jason Campbell. I have, on this blog, a few times compared Jason Campbell’s level of performance to that of Ben Roethlisberger. Well, Roethlisberger just signed a deal that averages 13 million dollars a year. Now, Jason Campbell is not the idol in Washington that Roethlisberger is in Pittsburgh, and will not command nearly as much money, but at the very least the Redskins should probably expect to give Campbell about 7 million a year. His contract will probably be in the vicinity of 50 million dollars over 7 years with 20 million in guaranteed money. That guarenteed money figure means the Redskins are going to be paying Campbell around 3.5-4 million right when he signs his deal, and 9-10 million a year on the back end of it. Currently, the Redskins aren’t even scheduled to give Campbell $2 million in 2009, so we can expect about a $2 million spike in his cap number.

The team will likely have to make a choice between Montgomery and Golston. One will walk and sign somewhere else in 2010, the other will see his big money in 2009. The going rate on mid-level caliber defensive tackles appears to be in the 20-30 million dollar range, with 8-10 in guarenteed money. Talking cap numbers, that’s only about 2-2.5 million dollars for the first year or two of a 6 year deal. That isn’t a whole lot more than the team would be paying them under the RFA tender anyway, but it is how you would lock Anthony Montgomery up.

Rogers’ agent will almost certainly void his last two years if he can re-establish himself as a starting corner in this league. He would be voiding about 3.5 million dollars, but a nickelback can easily get that on the open market in terms of a signing bonus. If the Redskins feel like Carlos can be a part of the team beyond 2009, they will probably want to get to work on his deal sometime during that season. Carlos may not have a lot of leverage at that point, especially if he doesn’t break the starting lineup in the next two years. However, his development was right on schedule prior to the knee injury, and should he finish 2008 as the team’s top corner, we are talking 15 million to sign the guy long term. In 2009 terms, thats a small raise, but by 2010, the team will really be committed to Rogers if they re-do his deal.

The odd man out here is potentially Rocky McIntosh.

Aticle continues from there.

These is only a problem if all of the young players pan out and become good. Golston may or may not be a starting caliber DT. If he is and the Redskins don't think he is good to team up with Montgomery, it will be hard to keep him. Montgomery has a lot of upside and the team likes him. McIntosh looks good, but is coming off a serious injury now. Rogers appears to be just a mediocre CB. Of course, the assessments could be a lot different in a year.Also, I think the Redskins may let things drag out. There is a serious possibility of an uncapped year coming up (I forget which year exactly). Then the Redskins will have no trouble signing all of their players.

 

[dgreen]

JLC Blog

Posted at 12:49 PM ET, 03/17/2008

Hackett agrees to offer -- from Carolina

Free agent wide receiver D.J. Hackett won't be joining the Redskins. Hackett, who held a contract offer from the Redskins, reportedly agreed to a two-year, $3.5-million contract with the Carolina Panthers.

Washington's offer wasn't close to what Hackett received from the Panthers, a league source said, and now the Redskins are waiting for wide receiver Reche Caldwell to decide on their offer to him. Caldwell still is considering his options, agent Tony Fleming said.

What on earth did they offer if that wasn't close? The vet minimum and a Dodge Stratus?

Wow. After handing out the big contracts to Lloyd and Randle El two years ago to be WR #2 and #3, I though Hackett would be worth $2-3M per year.

This has me really wondering if this offseason is simply an overreaction to criticism of all the other offseasons.They've said getting another WR is a priority. So, they have to pay SOMEONE some money. I'm not sure who else they see out there, unless they are still trying to pry CJ away from Cincy.

 

[redman]

JLC Blog

Posted at 12:49 PM ET, 03/17/2008

Hackett agrees to offer -- from Carolina

Free agent wide receiver D.J. Hackett won't be joining the Redskins. Hackett, who held a contract offer from the Redskins, reportedly agreed to a two-year, $3.5-million contract with the Carolina Panthers.

Washington's offer wasn't close to what Hackett received from the Panthers, a league source said, and now the Redskins are waiting for wide receiver Reche Caldwell to decide on their offer to him. Caldwell still is considering his options, agent Tony Fleming said.

What on earth did they offer if that wasn't close? The vet minimum and a Dodge Stratus?

Wow. After handing out the big contracts to Lloyd and Randle El two years ago to be WR #2 and #3, I though Hackett would be worth $2-3M per year.

This has me really wondering if this offseason is simply an overreaction to criticism of all the other offseasons.They've said getting another WR is a priority. So, they have to pay SOMEONE some money. I'm not sure who else they see out there, unless they are still trying to pry CJ away from Cincy.

Yeah, this lack of a move here has me scratching my head. I don't get it at all. They can't be so tight against the cap next year that they couldn't afford to match or beat a two-year, $3.5M contract, could they?

 

[Marvelous]

JLC Blog

Posted at 12:49 PM ET, 03/17/2008

Hackett agrees to offer -- from Carolina

Free agent wide receiver D.J. Hackett won't be joining the Redskins. Hackett, who held a contract offer from the Redskins, reportedly agreed to a two-year, $3.5-million contract with the Carolina Panthers.

Washington's offer wasn't close to what Hackett received from the Panthers, a league source said, and now the Redskins are waiting for wide receiver Reche Caldwell to decide on their offer to him. Caldwell still is considering his options, agent Tony Fleming said.

What on earth did they offer if that wasn't close? The vet minimum and a Dodge Stratus?

Wow. After handing out the big contracts to Lloyd and Randle El two years ago to be WR #2 and #3, I though Hackett would be worth $2-3M per year.

This has me really wondering if this offseason is simply an overreaction to criticism of all the other offseasons.They've said getting another WR is a priority. So, they have to pay SOMEONE some money. I'm not sure who else they see out there, unless they are still trying to pry CJ away from Cincy.

Yeah, this lack of a move here has me scratching my head. I don't get it at all. They can't be so tight against the cap next year that they couldn't afford to match or beat a two-year, $3.5M contract, could they?

Any chance Cerrato and Zorn only thought Hackett was a #4 wr?

 

[redman]

JLC Blog

Posted at 12:49 PM ET, 03/17/2008

Hackett agrees to offer -- from Carolina

Free agent wide receiver D.J. Hackett won't be joining the Redskins. Hackett, who held a contract offer from the Redskins, reportedly agreed to a two-year, $3.5-million contract with the Carolina Panthers.

Washington's offer wasn't close to what Hackett received from the Panthers, a league source said, and now the Redskins are waiting for wide receiver Reche Caldwell to decide on their offer to him. Caldwell still is considering his options, agent Tony Fleming said.

What on earth did they offer if that wasn't close? The vet minimum and a Dodge Stratus?

Wow. After handing out the big contracts to Lloyd and Randle El two years ago to be WR #2 and #3, I though Hackett would be worth $2-3M per year.

This has me really wondering if this offseason is simply an overreaction to criticism of all the other offseasons.They've said getting another WR is a priority. So, they have to pay SOMEONE some money. I'm not sure who else they see out there, unless they are still trying to pry CJ away from Cincy.

Yeah, this lack of a move here has me scratching my head. I don't get it at all. They can't be so tight against the cap next year that they couldn't afford to match or beat a two-year, $3.5M contract, could they?

Any chance Cerrato and Zorn only thought Hackett was a #4 wr?

It's a valid point in that we've always assumed that Zorn liked Hackett - maybe he didn't. I also hope this bodes well for what they think of Mix and Espy.

 

[Bizkiteer]

I understand that the 'Skins always made BIG splash every off-season, but to go to absolutely nothing is more than odd. I'm really surprised that this team did not get a few decent low-tiered players to fill in the depth. It's just weird to say the least...

 

[Sidewinder16]

Offseason workouts begin

Jason Reid, on JLC's blog writes:

Many Washington Redskins players returned to Redskins Park yesterday for the beginning of the voluntary offseason workout program. And although Jim Zorn has replaced Joe Gibbs as coach, much has remained the same because the majority of last season's coaching staff was retained, several players said.

"It's the same as normal," center Casey Rabach said. "That weirdness factor kind of left after a couple of weeks. We knew he [Gibbs] was going to be gone. We're just excited to see what a new coach brings to the table."

The Redskins are eager to learn Zorn's version of the West Coast offense, and the offense should thrive with a new approach, running back Clinton Portis said. "With Coach Zorn coming on board, I think it's going to be a more relaxed setting and things [will] open up," Portis said. "I'm sure you're going to see a lot of players go wild this year. Wild as in stats, not trouble wild.

"It's just going to be more of an opportunity to open up, spread out, and get [tight end Chris] Cooley in great position and put [wide receiver] Santana [Moss] in ..... we're just going to be exploiting matchups. I really think we're going to have an advantage to work one-on-one. We really didn't do a lot of that over the previous years."

While preparing for the Pro Bowl last month, Cooley got a head start in an offense similar to that of the system Zorn plans to implement. The Green Bay Packers' coaching staff coached the NFC squad in the Pro Bowl "and they run the exact same offense as we run, pretty much word for word what we do, and we got into quite a bit of it," Cooley said. "I've spent some time with Coach Zorn and I feel like I'll pick it up very quickly. I understand what I'm doing. Not to say that I didn't like our old offense, but it's an offense that I think I'll be more comfortable in."

The pass-oriented offense that former play-caller Al Saunders (the Redskins released Saunders in January and the St. Louis Rams quickly hired him as their offensive coordinator) is predicated on timing and rhythm. Quarterbacks throw to spots before receivers complete their routes, and then receivers, in theory, are supposed to make big gains running after catching balls in stride.

New offensive coordinator Sherman Smith will assist Zorn in devising game plans and Zorn will call plays. Cooley agreed with Portis's assessment that players will have more freedom in Zorn's offense, which won't rely as much on timing as Washington's previous system.

"It's going to give me a lot of options," Cooley said. "Say you're running an 'in route,' instead of just continuing to run 15 yards and run in to the middle of the field, I can stop if I feel there's a hole in the middle of the field. I can look for zones, and that's something that's one of my better assets as a football player, finding an open spot or a soft spot and giving the quarterback a target. I feel really confident in that, and this offense, from what I understand, is going to give me a lot of opportunity to do that."

Quarterback Jason Campbell worked in a version of the West Coast offense in his senior year at Auburn. Campbell has been in eight offensive systems the previous nine years.

"A lot got made about Jason being confused, or the last offense being too complicated, and I really don't believe that," Cooley said. "It takes a little time to learn anything. I really believe Jason can do a great job, and he's going to put in all the work to be our leader."

Campbell has become accustomed to change.

"It seems to be a routine thing for me now, so I'm kind of used to adjusting," Campbell said. "I've really enjoyed working with Coach Zorn lately, he's a very enthusiastic guy, he wants to teach me a lot of different things about the quarterback position."

Alexander's Role Won't Change: At the end of last season, the Redskins considered having versatile lineman Lorenzo Alexander -- he was a key contributor on of offense, defense and special teams as an undrafted rookie free agent -- concentrate on one position this offseason. Zorn, however, wants Alexander to continue working in a variety of roles. "I talked to Coach Zorn. I'm going to have the same role," Alexander said. "He liked what was going on last year from film, as far as my role last year. It's fine. The more I can do the better. I like doing it. It's fun."

 

[Sidewinder16]

More from CP, via David Elfin and the WT blog:

On Gibbs' retirement:

"It came as a shock to all of us. Obviously everyone in the locker room would've loved to have coach [Gibbs] back. I'm sure everybody around here learned something from coach Gibbs. Maybe we didn't do the things that he set out to accomplish, but at the same time, people became men and learned that from coach Gibbs and that will last a lifetime."

On new coach Jim Zorn:

"With Coach Zorn on board, I think it's going to be a more relaxed setting and things are going to open up. I think you're going to see a lot of players go wild this year. I mean, wild as [in] stats, not trouble. I think there will be more opportunity to open it up and spread it out, get Cooley in great position and Santana. We'll be exploiting matchups which we really didn't do a lot of [the past four seasons under Gibbs].

"He's a relaxed person. Coach Gibbs was a great coach, motivationally and everything else, but he tended to worry. Coach Zorn is just going to let it rip whether it work or not. If it don't work, he'll try it again."

On rumors that his pal, standout receiver Chad Johnson, wants to leave Cincinnati for Washington:

"I talk to Chad a lot. I might call Chad him just to tell him how relaxed we are here Hopeflly, he can get out of Cincinnati and come join us. You always want to play with a guy like Chad. He's a great guy, very talented. Trying to top his antics week-in and week-out, I'm sure that would bring a lot of excitement."

What this kind of offense could mean for him:

"[i'll be] the Tasmanian devil. If [shaun Alexander] did great in this system, I'm sure I'll be all right. I just gotta get my wheels back. I'm training with the Olympic team right now [joking]. I'm gonna be flying with sprinter-type speed."

On having a clear offensive boss as opposed to Gibbs and former associate coach Al Saunders:

"This system will be more like a spread, Denver system, pretty much the same play-calling, the same strategies. One idea, one philosophy, everybody get on the same page. There won't be people pulling at each other about whatever the call is going to be."

On offseason preparations:

"I've got to [take the offseason more seriously]. I'm getting older [27 in September] and wiser. I'm trying to work on team unity. A lot of the guys are here [today]. I'm sure over that over the next week, everybody will be around. It's an early jump and we're having fun."

On the absence of late safety Sean Taylor, whose locker netx to that of Portis remains encased in plexiglas:

"Sean's not here. You can talk to him, but he won't respond. You come to work with a different attitude. You don't have a day to waste. You come in every day and make the most of it."

On the NFC East rival New York Giants winning the Suiper Bowl

"At first, I didn't want them to win, but then I found myself cheering for them. It just gives us all the hope in the world. We basically ran over the Giants, dominated both games [ in 2007]. For them to go and win [the Super Bowl], show us where we at. ... If we can come together and get on the same page like they did, that can be us this year."

 

[Sidewinder16]

More from CP, via David Elfin and the WT blog:

On having a clear offensive boss as opposed to Gibbs and former associate coach Al Saunders:

"This system will be more like a spread, Denver system, pretty much the same play-calling, the same strategies. One idea, one philosophy, everybody get on the same page. There won't be people pulling at each other about whatever the call is going to be."

A couple of very interesting comments here. One, the question and the second part of the answer assume there really was some kind of struggle or confusion as to who was really in charge of the offense (Gibbs or Saunders). I know we've guessed at this, but this seems to be the most direct comment to that regard from a player.Also, more like a "Denver system"??? Is that CP misspeaking, or is there a really a lot of similarities between what Shanahan runs and what Holmgren runs?

 

[dgreen]

More from CP, via David Elfin and the WT blog:

On having a clear offensive boss as opposed to Gibbs and former associate coach Al Saunders:

"This system will be more like a spread, Denver system, pretty much the same play-calling, the same strategies. One idea, one philosophy, everybody get on the same page. There won't be people pulling at each other about whatever the call is going to be."

A couple of very interesting comments here. One, the question and the second part of the answer assume there really was some kind of struggle or confusion as to who was really in charge of the offense (Gibbs or Saunders). I know we've guessed at this, but this seems to be the most direct comment to that regard from a player.Also, more like a "Denver system"??? Is that CP misspeaking, or is there a really a lot of similarities between what Shanahan runs and what Holmgren runs?

Zorn has said he doesn't plan on changing much in the running game, but planned on making changes in the passing game. So, not sure if Zorn will implement the running game Denver had or not.

 

[Bizkiteer]

JLC Blog

Posted at 12:49 PM ET, 03/17/2008

Hackett agrees to offer -- from Carolina

Free agent wide receiver D.J. Hackett won't be joining the Redskins. Hackett, who held a contract offer from the Redskins, reportedly agreed to a two-year, $3.5-million contract with the Carolina Panthers.

Washington's offer wasn't close to what Hackett received from the Panthers, a league source said, and now the Redskins are waiting for wide receiver Reche Caldwell to decide on their offer to him. Caldwell still is considering his options, agent Tony Fleming said.

What on earth did they offer if that wasn't close? The vet minimum and a Dodge Stratus?

Wow. After handing out the big contracts to Lloyd and Randle El two years ago to be WR #2 and #3, I though Hackett would be worth $2-3M per year.

This has me really wondering if this offseason is simply an overreaction to criticism of all the other offseasons.They've said getting another WR is a priority. So, they have to pay SOMEONE some money. I'm not sure who else they see out there, unless they are still trying to pry CJ away from Cincy.

Yeah, this lack of a move here has me scratching my head. I don't get it at all. They can't be so tight against the cap next year that they couldn't afford to match or beat a two-year, $3.5M contract, could they?

Any chance Cerrato and Zorn only thought Hackett was a #4 wr?

It's a valid point in that we've always assumed that Zorn liked Hackett - maybe he didn't. I also hope this bodes well for what they think of Mix and Espy.

Updated from the bottom of of Offseason workouts JLC/Jason Reid..Alexander's Role Won't Change: At the end of last season, the Redskins considered having versatile lineman Lorenzo Alexander -- he was a key contributor on of offense, defense and special teams as an undrafted rookie free agent -- concentrate on one position this offseason. Zorn, however, wants Alexander to continue working in a variety of roles.

"I talked to Coach Zorn. I'm going to have the same role," Alexander said. "He liked what was going on last year from film, as far as my role last year. It's fine. The more I can do the better. I like doing it. It's fun."

Askew Signed; Espy, Harris Released:The Redskins re-signed defensive tackle Matthias Askew, who was with them during the 2007 preseason. Askew, 6 feet 5 and 302 pounds, was a fourth-round selection of the Cincinnati Bengals in the 2004 draft. In addition, they released wide receivers Mike Espy and Steven Harris.

 

[fatness]

They've said they're pretty high on Anthony Mix. They've said it repeatedly. In fact they've said it enough that I don't believe them.

 

[fatness]

Offseason workouts begin

Jason Reid, on JLC's blog writes:

........The Redskins are eager to learn Zorn's version of the West Coast offense, and the offense should thrive with a new approach, running back Clinton Portis said. "With Coach Zorn coming on board, I think it's going to be a more relaxed setting and things [will] open up," Portis said. "I'm sure you're going to see a lot of players go wild this year. Wild as in stats, not trouble wild.

"It's just going to be more of an opportunity to open up, spread out, and get [tight end Chris] Cooley in great position and put [wide receiver] Santana [Moss] in ..... we're just going to be exploiting matchups. I really think we're going to have an advantage to work one-on-one. We really didn't do a lot of that over the previous years."

While preparing for the Pro Bowl last month, Cooley got a head start in an offense similar to that of the system Zorn plans to implement. The Green Bay Packers' coaching staff coached the NFC squad in the Pro Bowl "and they run the exact same offense as we run, pretty much word for word what we do, and we got into quite a bit of it," Cooley said. "I've spent some time with Coach Zorn and I feel like I'll pick it up very quickly. I understand what I'm doing. Not to say that I didn't like our old offense, but it's an offense that I think I'll be more comfortable in."

The pass-oriented offense that former play-caller Al Saunders (the Redskins released Saunders in January and the St. Louis Rams quickly hired him as their offensive coordinator) is predicated on timing and rhythm. Quarterbacks throw to spots before receivers complete their routes, and then receivers, in theory, are supposed to make big gains running after catching balls in stride.

New offensive coordinator Sherman Smith will assist Zorn in devising game plans and Zorn will call plays. Cooley agreed with Portis's assessment that players will have more freedom in Zorn's offense, which won't rely as much on timing as Washington's previous system.

"It's going to give me a lot of options," Cooley said. "Say you're running an 'in route,' instead of just continuing to run 15 yards and run in to the middle of the field, I can stop if I feel there's a hole in the middle of the field. I can look for zones, and that's something that's one of my better assets as a football player, finding an open spot or a soft spot and giving the quarterback a target. I feel really confident in that, and this offense, from what I understand, is going to give me a lot of opportunity to do that.".........

Cooley's description is the opposite of what I've read previously about the difference between Saunders's offense and Zorn's offense. Previously (probably iin Zorn's first press conference?) I heard that his offense was about timing, throwing to spots, expecting receivers to arrive at that spot as the ball does, instead of "waiting for someone to get open." What Cooley's saying is very different than that.

 

[Bizkiteer]

They've said they're pretty high on Anthony Mix. They've said it repeatedly. In fact they've said it enough that I don't believe them.

LOL!

 

[Sidewinder16]

Offseason workouts begin

Jason Reid, on JLC's blog writes:

........The Redskins are eager to learn Zorn's version of the West Coast offense, and the offense should thrive with a new approach, running back Clinton Portis said. "With Coach Zorn coming on board, I think it's going to be a more relaxed setting and things [will] open up," Portis said. "I'm sure you're going to see a lot of players go wild this year. Wild as in stats, not trouble wild.

"It's just going to be more of an opportunity to open up, spread out, and get [tight end Chris] Cooley in great position and put [wide receiver] Santana [Moss] in ..... we're just going to be exploiting matchups. I really think we're going to have an advantage to work one-on-one. We really didn't do a lot of that over the previous years."

While preparing for the Pro Bowl last month, Cooley got a head start in an offense similar to that of the system Zorn plans to implement. The Green Bay Packers' coaching staff coached the NFC squad in the Pro Bowl "and they run the exact same offense as we run, pretty much word for word what we do, and we got into quite a bit of it," Cooley said. "I've spent some time with Coach Zorn and I feel like I'll pick it up very quickly. I understand what I'm doing. Not to say that I didn't like our old offense, but it's an offense that I think I'll be more comfortable in."

The pass-oriented offense that former play-caller Al Saunders (the Redskins released Saunders in January and the St. Louis Rams quickly hired him as their offensive coordinator) is predicated on timing and rhythm. Quarterbacks throw to spots before receivers complete their routes, and then receivers, in theory, are supposed to make big gains running after catching balls in stride.

New offensive coordinator Sherman Smith will assist Zorn in devising game plans and Zorn will call plays. Cooley agreed with Portis's assessment that players will have more freedom in Zorn's offense, which won't rely as much on timing as Washington's previous system.

"It's going to give me a lot of options," Cooley said. "Say you're running an 'in route,' instead of just continuing to run 15 yards and run in to the middle of the field, I can stop if I feel there's a hole in the middle of the field. I can look for zones, and that's something that's one of my better assets as a football player, finding an open spot or a soft spot and giving the quarterback a target. I feel really confident in that, and this offense, from what I understand, is going to give me a lot of opportunity to do that.".........

Cooley's description is the opposite of what I've read previously about the difference between Saunders's offense and Zorn's offense. Previously (probably iin Zorn's first press conference?) I heard that his offense was about timing, throwing to spots, expecting receivers to arrive at that spot as the ball does, instead of "waiting for someone to get open." What Cooley's saying is very different than that.

Yeah, I thought that was a little weird, as well. The more I think about it though, I'm not sure I've seen a quote from a player or coach before that said essentially "We're going to run a WCO where the passes are based on timing and throwing to spots". I think it's just been the media guys throwing that out since Zorn has been involved in a WCO.Maybe Zorn isn't strictly a WCO guy, plus what kind of background does Sherman Smith have and how much influence is he going to have on designing the passing game?

 

[redman]

On rumors that his pal, standout receiver Chad Johnson, wants to leave Cincinnati for Washington:

"I talk to Chad a lot. I might call Chad him just to tell him how relaxed we are here Hopeflly, he can get out of Cincinnati and come join us. You always want to play with a guy like Chad. He's a great guy, very talented. Trying to top his antics week-in and week-out, I'm sure that would bring a lot of excitement."

No thanks, though obviously Johnson would be a huge net benefit to the offense's firepower.

On the NFC East rival New York Giants winning the Suiper Bowl

"At first, I didn't want them to win, but then I found myself cheering for them. It just gives us all the hope in the world. We basically ran over the Giants, dominated both games [ in 2007]. For them to go and win [the Super Bowl], show us where we at. ... If we can come together and get on the same page like they did, that can be us this year."

This is a perfect description of my feelings at the time. I never root for division rivals in the playoffs - I just can't. The rivalries are too strong. But the Giants accomplished something special and I couldn't help myself.

 

[redman]

They've said they're pretty high on Anthony Mix. They've said it repeatedly. In fact they've said it enough that I don't believe them.

LOL!

 

[dgreen]

I'm not sure there's a passing game in the NFL today that ISN'T based on timing and throwing to a spot. They all want to throw the ball before the receiver turns their head or gets to a spot.

 

[dgreen]

They've said they're pretty high on Anthony Mix. They've said it repeatedly. In fact they've said it enough that I don't believe them.

Whether they like him as WR or not, I love him as a ST player. He had 8 solo tackles in just 5 games last year. I remember being impressed with him on kick coverage. Plus, he was Johnny on the Spot on the KO against Seattle. You know, the one that could have led to a victory?

 

[redman]

I'm not sure there's a passing game in the NFL today that ISN'T based on timing and throwing to a spot. They all want to throw the ball before the receiver turns their head or gets to a spot.

Saunders' offense may have been an extreme, but I always understood the WCO to be based upon a strict set of routes, run to a specific point on the field at a specific time, such that the QB could go through his progressions and look for example, first to the X WR seven yards off the line of scrimmage, then to the TE crossing at 10 yards, then to the Y WR running an out route at 15 yards, then check down to the FB coming off a blocking assignment and running a swing route as a safety valve. Each guy has to be at a specific, assigned spot at a specific time such that the QB knows where he will be when he comes to him on his progressions. I believe the most significant difference between Saunders' offense and the WCO, aside from terminology, are the routes that they favor, Saunders' routes being more vertical, and the WCO using more crossing patterns that cut through multiple zones.

 

[redman]

They've said they're pretty high on Anthony Mix. They've said it repeatedly. In fact they've said it enough that I don't believe them.

Whether they like him as WR or not, I love him as a ST player. He had 8 solo tackles in just 5 games last year. I remember being impressed with him on kick coverage. Plus, he was Johnny on the Spot on the KO against Seattle. You know, the one that could have led to a victory?

Don't forget about Mike Espy either, who seemed poised to make the squad as a WR until he was injured late in camp last year.