*** Official Michael Turner 2007 offseason thread *** (2 Viewers)

[BoltBacker]

everybody has handled Randy Moss pretty good the past 2 years, doesn't say much

Then why should SD be so afraid of matching up with him now that he's on NE?

 

[BoltBacker]

What does Jammer being signed long term have to do with anything? Is he good? You'll need a lot of quality CB's playing New England and Indy.

We've already explained that SD feels they are 3 quality CB's deep. How many teams are 4 quality CB's deep?

 

[pinda]

Same reason why Randy Moss has went from a sell to a buy.

A motivated Moss on a great team with other weapons is something to worry about.

 

[PadresLakers]

Same reason why Randy Moss has went from a sell to a buy. A motivated Moss on a great team with other weapons is something to worry about.

Good luck with that.If Moss wasn't motivated Week 1 at home on MNF last year when he faced the Chargers then he is more of a loser then most people care to admit.

 

[BoltBacker]

Same reason why Randy Moss has went from a sell to a buy. A motivated Moss on a great team with other weapons is something to worry about.

Not all of us think Moss is a buy. Let's assume he hasn't lost anything physically as he's gotten older(though it certainly appears he has) and all his problems are attitude..... is Randy Moss in an offense that's never revolved around gettin just one guy the ball really going to be happy in NE or is he going to have some outburst before the end of the season? How will a guy like Moss get along with BB? I'm not buying. Not now. Probably not ever again.Randy Moss hasn't been Randy Moss since '03 when he was playing in his mid 20's. His production was based HEAVILY on his physical ability and now that he's over 30 I'm not sure if we'll ever see the old Randy Moss again.l

 

[andyk]

Another thing that people just have not been factoring in was that this draft was terrible. AJ saw no one in it that he particuarly liked, so he grabs a WR he can live with at the end of round 1, and trades away a bunch of picks that were probably not going to make the team anyway to get the safety he wanted. I really think that AJ felt (and rightly so) that this draft just didnt have the players that he had to have to move turner. This is mostly about what a bad draft this was.

 

[thayman]

Another thing that people just have not been factoring in was that this draft was terrible. AJ saw no one in it that he particuarly liked, so he grabs a WR he can live with at the end of round 1, and trades away a bunch of picks that were probably not going to make the team anyway to get the safety he wanted. I really think that AJ felt (and rightly so) that this draft just didnt have the players that he had to have to move turner. This is mostly about what a bad draft this was.

I think this is probably closer to the truth than any other theroies out there.

 

[Burning Sensation]

Glad i didnt trade my first born for him, as many suggested. Also, for the guys who said they would take Turner over Lynch in a dynasty, would you still?

 

[zamboni]

Another thing that people just have not been factoring in was that this draft was terrible. AJ saw no one in it that he particuarly liked, so he grabs a WR he can live with at the end of round 1, and trades away a bunch of picks that were probably not going to make the team anyway to get the safety he wanted. I really think that AJ felt (and rightly so) that this draft just didnt have the players that he had to have to move turner. This is mostly about what a bad draft this was.

Agreed, which makes it surprising that he would turn down a #1 for next year, which would be a presumably better draft.But again, it's clear that the desire to win now was far greater who they could possibly get next year, and it's hard to argue that viewpoint.

 

[mozzy84]

Wouldn't it be easier though to find a backup RB later in the draft or via free agency then a CB with enough skills to run with Indy and New England? Again, I'm just kind of curious what Charger fans think.

I think that's a refreshingly reasonable question in this thread. My take as a Charger fan is they are fairly content with their CB's. Cromartie has to see the field this year. He has to start if not the first week then be week #4. Florence played well last year if you don't count the ridiculous penalty he committed vs NE in the playoffs. Jammer, well, is just Jammer and I'm not a huge fan but he plays well for stretches. Those are three pretty good CB's imo. If they were planning on trying Jammer at S then I think the need for a CB would be more real but I haven't read anything that would convince me they are finally willing to try him at S. I don't think any of the rookie CB's in this draft would be any more than a dime back this season. Cromartie played just about as well as anyone could have hoped and he never made it past nickel back last year.I've said all along if they could get a difference maker at a postion of need(S and ILB) then I thought AJ should have pulled the trigger. The only two players that I think fit that bill were Landry and Willis and I don't think it was ever possible to trade Turner to acquire either of those two players. I really like Nelson, but Nelson/Griffin/Merriweather.... meh, I just don't think they are that big a step up from Weddle. IMO I'd rather have (Turner + Weddle) then any one of those guys.Again, that was a very reasonable question and I'd be interested on hearing how other Charger fans feel about that as well.

Well if they make the trade up to get Revis at #14, that would have freed up the second to take David Harris. Would you rather have Turner + Weddle or Revis + Harris (+ say Pittman or Bush in the 4th to replace Turner).As you can probably tell from my posts, I think two things are very crazy about this situation. The craziest thing is that a team actually offered up a 1st round pick. The second crazy thing is AJ actually turned it down.

The Chargers did not need a CB. Jammer is signed long term, Cromartie was a first rounder last year and Florence is good as well. They wanted a quality safety prospect. If trading Turner meant drafting Landry I have no doubt they would have done so.

What does Jammer being signed long term have to do with anything? Is he good? You'll need a lot of quality CB's playing New England and Indy.

Jammer has handled Randy Moss pretty well the past two years so I'm not really concerned with the offensive firepower of New England. Hes pretty good and signed long term. Florence will likely leave next year, but he will likely be passed by Cromartie on the depth chart next year anyway. So Revis would have been he 4th CB next year and 3rd CB the following year. I imagine most teams would expect more than that when picking that early in the first round.

love the confidence of the charger fans, we have no holes and don't need any picks

 

[Burning Sensation]

Another thing that people just have not been factoring in was that this draft was terrible. AJ saw no one in it that he particuarly liked, so he grabs a WR he can live with at the end of round 1, and trades away a bunch of picks that were probably not going to make the team anyway to get the safety he wanted. I really think that AJ felt (and rightly so) that this draft just didnt have the players that he had to have to move turner. This is mostly about what a bad draft this was.

Agreed, which makes it surprising that he would turn down a #1 for next year , which would be a presumably better draft.But again, it's clear that the desire to win now was far greater who they could possibly get next year, and it's hard to argue that viewpoint.

Who offered that for Turner?

 

[zamboni]

Another thing that people just have not been factoring in was that this draft was terrible. AJ saw no one in it that he particuarly liked, so he grabs a WR he can live with at the end of round 1, and trades away a bunch of picks that were probably not going to make the team anyway to get the safety he wanted. I really think that AJ felt (and rightly so) that this draft just didnt have the players that he had to have to move turner. This is mostly about what a bad draft this was.

Agreed, which makes it surprising that he would turn down a #1 for next year , which would be a presumably better draft.But again, it's clear that the desire to win now was far greater who they could possibly get next year, and it's hard to argue that viewpoint.

Who offered that for Turner?

I think you've spent more time bashing Turner supporters than reading the thread. The price tag has been said several times.

 

[GRIDIRON ASSASSIN]

AJ Smith was on THE HERD, and said that Michael Turner will remain with the Bolts this year. End of story.

 

[Yitbos69]

it up....it's over!

 

[pinda]

Another thing that people just have not been factoring in was that this draft was terrible. AJ saw no one in it that he particuarly liked, so he grabs a WR he can live with at the end of round 1, and trades away a bunch of picks that were probably not going to make the team anyway to get the safety he wanted. I really think that AJ felt (and rightly so) that this draft just didnt have the players that he had to have to move turner. This is mostly about what a bad draft this was.

I think this is probably closer to the truth than any other theroies out there.

yeah but he was offered a 2008 1st, so what's his crystal ball telling him there.

 

[fatness]

Apologies if this has been posted already: Chargers.com article

Smith: ‘Turner will be a Charger in ‘07’

Monday, Apr 30, 2007

By Casey Pearce, Chargers.com

The morning after the NFL Draft, phones are usually pretty quiet in team offices as a 48-hour period of wheeling and dealing has just concluded. That wasn’t the case with A.J. Smith Monday as the Chargers’ General Manager is telling teams around the League there’s no reason to keep calling concerning his backup running back.

“Michael Turner will be a Charger in 2007,” Smith said. “There’s been a lot of activity concerning Michael over the last several months and continued all the way through the draft. We could have entertained offers all the way through October. But Norv Turner andI just got out of a personnel meeting and we made the decision that our football team is built for 2007 and Michael Turner will be a part of it. I’m calling teams that were interested and telling them that we’re no longer going to entertain offers. Michael is here.”

 

[gheemony]

The fat lady is singing. Move on, nothing to see here.

 

[Buffalo0987]

I'd take Turner over Lynch, sorry, i would (dynasty). He will be a monster next year. Waiting blows but Turner will be a stud and LT has some major miles. Who knows how this could work out for Turner this year. And teams will really want him if he gets playing time in Norv's rushing system.

Like someone said earlier pages back, Holmes owners waited at one point. It blows, but i would take turner in a sec over Lynch.

 

[thayman]

Another thing that people just have not been factoring in was that this draft was terrible. AJ saw no one in it that he particuarly liked, so he grabs a WR he can live with at the end of round 1, and trades away a bunch of picks that were probably not going to make the team anyway to get the safety he wanted. I really think that AJ felt (and rightly so) that this draft just didnt have the players that he had to have to move turner. This is mostly about what a bad draft this was.

I think this is probably closer to the truth than any other theroies out there.

yeah but he was offered a 2008 1st, so what's his crystal ball telling him there.

I would say that Turner in 2007 > 2008 1st.ETA: Love the Avatar

 

[grind]

I'd take Turner over Lynch, sorry, i would (dynasty). He will be a monster next year. Waiting blows but Turner will be a stud and LT has some major miles. Who knows how this could work out for Turner this year. And teams will really want him if he gets playing time in Norv's rushing system.Like someone said earlier pages back, Holmes owners waited at one point. It blows, but i would take turner in a sec over Lynch.

Sad thing is, he won't get playing time in Norv's offense. Norv has always featured one back and one back only. Turner plays only IF LT gets hurt.

 

[The Ref]

Well - this was a fun ride. I am disapointed to say the least.

The one thing this thread needs in order to bring it to an end is to hear from the burner himself. Mind you this is pure speculation, but he can't be happy to hear that he is being passed over for a huge payday because the bolts would not deal him for a #1 pick. If I am Turner, I go public with my displesure.

 

[grind]

Well - this was a fun ride. I am disapointed to say the least. The one thing this thread needs in order to bring it to an end is to hear from the burner himself. Mind you this is pure speculation, but he can't be happy to hear that he is being passed over for a huge payday because the bolts would not deal him for a #1 pick. If I am Turner, I go public with my displesure.

I wouldn't. I would sit back, keep quiet, take my 40 to 50 carries this year and cash in next year. By staying quiet, he is going to come out squeeky clean from this, which will keep his value next year. Any character issues could cost him some money.

 

[fruity pebbles]

Well - this was a fun ride. I am disapointed to say the least. The one thing this thread needs in order to bring it to an end is to hear from the burner himself. Mind you this is pure speculation, but he can't be happy to hear that he is being passed over for a huge payday because the bolts would not deal him for a #1 pick. If I am Turner, I go public with my displesure.

I wouldn't. I would sit back, keep quiet, take my 40 to 50 carries this year and cash in next year. By staying quiet, he is going to come out squeeky clean from this, which will keep his value next year. Any character issues could cost him some money.

 

[-OZ-]

Well - this was a fun ride. I am disapointed to say the least. The one thing this thread needs in order to bring it to an end is to hear from the burner himself. Mind you this is pure speculation, but he can't be happy to hear that he is being passed over for a huge payday because the bolts would not deal him for a #1 pick. If I am Turner, I go public with my displesure.

I wouldn't. I would sit back, keep quiet, take my 40 to 50 carries this year and cash in next year. By staying quiet, he is going to come out squeeky clean from this, which will keep his value next year. Any character issues could cost him some money.

How many Chargers have come out publicly against their own team? (If another team attacks someone on their team, all hell breaks loose)How would you suspect the typical San Diego fan (not the Shark Pool) would react to their backup RB #####ing?Besides, from what I know about Turner, I don't see him as a malcontent or a player who would take this public.

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

Turner relieved to be settled

Monday, Apr 30, 2007

By Casey Pearce, Chargers.com

Saturday afternoon was somewhat of a flashback for Chargers running back Michael Turner.

“It was like when I was drafted three years ago,” Turner said. “I had my phone next to me and was watching the draft wondering where I was going to be.”

Turner found himself a bit emotionally torn while visiting prospective teams over the last couple months, but that uneasiness was all settled Monday morning when General Manager A.J. Smith announced he’d no longer entertain trade offers for the fourth-year back.

“It was a win-win situation for me,” Turner said. “On one hand, I could have left, become a starter and got paid a lot more money, but it probably wouldn’t have been on a team that is ready to compete for a championship right now. This team is ready. I’m hoping I can get my Super Bowl ring this year, still be on a great team and wait and see what happens. It’s a relief to know that the process is over. I’m still a Charger and I can’t be anything but happy about it.”

Knowing there was a good chance he’d still be in lightning bolts after the weekend, Turner had booked a flight to return from his Chicago home to San Diego on Sunday. He was in the weight room at Chargers Park Monday morning getting constantly interrupted by a host of teammates who enthusiastically welcomed him back.

“Everybody was excited to see me and I was excited to see them,” Turner said. “Since I wasn’t under contract, I wasn’t allowed to workout (at Chargers Park). I’ve been doing things on my own, but that’s not the same. It was really cool to get back around all my guys and start working with them, working towards a goal.”

One of the first players to greet Turner Monday was fullback Lorenzo Neal. Turner pointed out how grateful that he is to have another year to learn from Neal and LaDainian Tomlinson.

“I can’t even put a value on it,” Turner said. “It’s priceless. I’m just soaking up information from them, not just about football but about how to be a pro. That’s going to pay off so much when I get a chance to be a starter.”

While Turner is physically more than ready to handle a full load, he’s fine with the fact that he’ll spend another season as a backup. He’s confident that his patience will be rewarded as he plays a key role on a playoff-caliber team.

“Nothing has changed,” Turner said. “I always knew there was a chance I was going to be here. My mindset is just to go to work again. It’s another year. I was able to visit some teams but I’m still a Charger and that’s great. I’m not stressed. Everybody knows what I can do. I don’t have to prove anything. I just have to be myself and keep working hard. This team has a chance to do something great and I’m really happy that I get to be a part of that.”

 

[PadresLakers]

Turner is going to be a great starter for a team next year.

A few teams will be wishing they had ponied up the extra third round pick for him

 

[Ditkaless Wonders]

Were I S.D.'s G.M I would be somewhat worried that N.E. and Denver improved themselves massively, that Pittsburgh got more physical as did the Jags, that the Colts and Bengals are out there with one being the World Champ while I stood pat. As some have said windows of opportunity close fast. Standing pat is interesting when they had the ammunition to take a risk. True they covered their downside this year, but where is the upside for a team that was short the last year? I suppose they can hope for improved coaching and increased production out of a maturing Rivers. Good luck to a very good team.

 

[Tau837]

Were I S.D.'s G.M I would be somewhat worried that N.E. and Denver improved themselves massively, that Pittsburgh got more physical as did the Jags, that the Colts and Bengals are out there with one being the World Champ while I stood pat. As some have said windows of opportunity close fast. Standing pat is interesting when they had the ammunition to take a risk. True they covered their downside this year, but where is the upside for a team that was short the last year? I suppose they can hope for improved coaching and increased production out of a maturing Rivers. Good luck to a very good team.

Some possible upsides this season:1. Rivers should be better.2. The WRs should be better.3. Sproles will be back and may make an impact.4. With Turner, they will have a solid #2 RB, which is important in today's NFL, and an excellent kickoff returner... they will be better at both of those spots than they would be had they traded him.5. Hopefully none of their players will lose games to suspension, as Merriman did last year.6. Their defense was riddled with injuries last year and hopefully will be healthier.I guess I'm curious exactly who those who are criticizing SD think they should/would have gotten. Does everyone think they should have traded Turner for some veteran who would step in and start? If so, who?Does anyone think they could have moved up for Landry? That would have definitely had the potential to make their team better than it is right now, but I don't think that opportunity was there. Same for Willis.So what is this big opportunity they missed? I mean, most seem to feel they should have traded him for a 2008 1st rounder... which would have weakened their team this year in comparison to NE, Denver, Indy, et al.Help me out here.

 

[Colin Dowling]

They could have swapped picks w/ Tennessee as part of the deal and ended up w/ Michael Griffin, who would have been an immediate contributor. OTehr then that, aside from the fact they likely won't get anything for Turner in the offseason, they didn't "lose" mush for 07.

 

[BoltBacker]

They could have swapped picks w/ Tennessee as part of the deal and ended up w/ Michael Griffin, who would have been an immediate contributor. OTehr then that, aside from the fact they likely won't get anything for Turner in the offseason, they didn't "lose" mush for 07.

Weddle should be an immediate contributor at S, so they've already got that covered. I respect Bloom's rankings and he has Griffin the #4 S in the draft and Weddle the #5 S in the draft. I don't think there's all that much that seperates them.Also, they should get a 3rd rounder for him in the offseason so they will get something.

 

[Colin Dowling]

They could have swapped picks w/ Tennessee as part of the deal and ended up w/ Michael Griffin, who would have been an immediate contributor. OTehr then that, aside from the fact they likely won't get anything for Turner in the offseason, they didn't "lose" mush for 07.

Weddle should be an immediate contributor at S, so they've already got that covered. I respect Bloom's rankings and he has Griffin the #4 S in the draft and Weddle the #5 S in the draft. I don't think there's all that much that seperates them.Also, they should get a 3rd rounder for him in the offseason so they will get something.

Forgot about Weddle. HE will definitely make an impact.That said, Griffin was safety 2a in this after Landry and even with Nelson depending on your preferences.

 

[enfuego]

Turner relieved to be settled

Monday, Apr 30, 2007

By Casey Pearce, Chargers.com

Saturday afternoon was somewhat of a flashback for Chargers running back Michael Turner.

"It was like when I was drafted three years ago," Turner said. "I had my phone next to me and was watching the draft wondering where I was going to be."

Turner found himself a bit emotionally torn while visiting prospective teams over the last couple months, but that uneasiness was all settled Monday morning when General Manager A.J. Smith announced he'd no longer entertain trade offers for the fourth-year back.

"It was a win-win situation for me," Turner said. "On one hand, I could have left, become a starter and got paid a lot more money, but it probably wouldn't have been on a team that is ready to compete for a championship right now. This team is ready. I'm hoping I can get my Super Bowl ring this year, still be on a great team and wait and see what happens. It's a relief to know that the process is over. I'm still a Charger and I can't be anything but happy about it."

Knowing there was a good chance he'd still be in lightning bolts after the weekend, Turner had booked a flight to return from his Chicago home to San Diego on Sunday. He was in the weight room at Chargers Park Monday morning getting constantly interrupted by a host of teammates who enthusiastically welcomed him back.

"Everybody was excited to see me and I was excited to see them," Turner said. "Since I wasn't under contract, I wasn't allowed to workout (at Chargers Park). I've been doing things on my own, but that's not the same. It was really cool to get back around all my guys and start working with them, working towards a goal."

One of the first players to greet Turner Monday was fullback Lorenzo Neal. Turner pointed out how grateful that he is to have another year to learn from Neal and LaDainian Tomlinson.

"I can't even put a value on it," Turner said. "It's priceless. I'm just soaking up information from them, not just about football but about how to be a pro. That's going to pay off so much when I get a chance to be a starter."

While Turner is physically more than ready to handle a full load, he's fine with the fact that he'll spend another season as a backup. He's confident that his patience will be rewarded as he plays a key role on a playoff-caliber team.

"Nothing has changed," Turner said. "I always knew there was a chance I was going to be here. My mindset is just to go to work again. It's another year. I was able to visit some teams but I'm still a Charger and that's great. I'm not stressed. Everybody knows what I can do. I don't have to prove anything. I just have to be myself and keep working hard. This team has a chance to do something great and I'm really happy that I get to be a part of that."

Turner is a class act...

 

[Tau837]

They could have swapped picks w/ Tennessee as part of the deal and ended up w/ Michael Griffin, who would have been an immediate contributor. OTehr then that, aside from the fact they likely won't get anything for Turner in the offseason, they didn't "lose" mush for 07.

Weddle should be an immediate contributor at S, so they've already got that covered. I respect Bloom's rankings and he has Griffin the #4 S in the draft and Weddle the #5 S in the draft. I don't think there's all that much that seperates them.Also, they should get a 3rd rounder for him in the offseason so they will get something.

Forgot about Weddle. HE will definitely make an impact.That said, Griffin was safety 2a in this after Landry and even with Nelson depending on your preferences.

For this year:Turner + Weddle > GriffinOf course, that doesn't tell the whole story, which is more like:Turner + Davis + Weddle > Griffin + whoever they would have taken laterThis is exactly the point I was making.

 

[tommyGunZ]

They could have swapped picks w/ Tennessee as part of the deal and ended up w/ Michael Griffin, who would have been an immediate contributor. OTehr then that, aside from the fact they likely won't get anything for Turner in the offseason, they didn't "lose" mush for 07.

They'll get a 3rd rounder as compensation in '09 for losing Turner. So AJ Smith's choices were:1) Swap picks with Tennessee - (effectively dealing Turner to move up 11 spots)or 2) Keep Turner for the '07 Super Bowl run, and get a 3rd rounder in '09.

 

[tommyGunZ]

Oh and Floyd Reese said that Weddle may have been the best overall athlete in the draft this morning on the Herd.

 

[zamboni]

Turner relieved to be settled

Monday, Apr 30, 2007

By Casey Pearce, Chargers.com

Saturday afternoon was somewhat of a flashback for Chargers running back Michael Turner.

"It was like when I was drafted three years ago," Turner said. "I had my phone next to me and was watching the draft wondering where I was going to be."

Turner found himself a bit emotionally torn while visiting prospective teams over the last couple months, but that uneasiness was all settled Monday morning when General Manager A.J. Smith announced he'd no longer entertain trade offers for the fourth-year back.

"It was a win-win situation for me," Turner said. "On one hand, I could have left, become a starter and got paid a lot more money, but it probably wouldn't have been on a team that is ready to compete for a championship right now. This team is ready. I'm hoping I can get my Super Bowl ring this year, still be on a great team and wait and see what happens. It's a relief to know that the process is over. I'm still a Charger and I can't be anything but happy about it."

Knowing there was a good chance he'd still be in lightning bolts after the weekend, Turner had booked a flight to return from his Chicago home to San Diego on Sunday. He was in the weight room at Chargers Park Monday morning getting constantly interrupted by a host of teammates who enthusiastically welcomed him back.

"Everybody was excited to see me and I was excited to see them," Turner said. "Since I wasn't under contract, I wasn't allowed to workout (at Chargers Park). I've been doing things on my own, but that's not the same. It was really cool to get back around all my guys and start working with them, working towards a goal."

One of the first players to greet Turner Monday was fullback Lorenzo Neal. Turner pointed out how grateful that he is to have another year to learn from Neal and LaDainian Tomlinson.

"I can't even put a value on it," Turner said. "It's priceless. I'm just soaking up information from them, not just about football but about how to be a pro. That's going to pay off so much when I get a chance to be a starter."

While Turner is physically more than ready to handle a full load, he's fine with the fact that he'll spend another season as a backup. He's confident that his patience will be rewarded as he plays a key role on a playoff-caliber team.

"Nothing has changed," Turner said. "I always knew there was a chance I was going to be here. My mindset is just to go to work again. It's another year. I was able to visit some teams but I'm still a Charger and that's great. I'm not stressed. Everybody knows what I can do. I don't have to prove anything. I just have to be myself and keep working hard. This team has a chance to do something great and I'm really happy that I get to be a part of that."

Turner is a class act...

Seems like a good, grounded guy. I hope it all works out for him next year.

 

[grind]

Were I S.D.'s G.M I would be somewhat worried that N.E. and Denver improved themselves massively, that Pittsburgh got more physical as did the Jags, that the Colts and Bengals are out there with one being the World Champ while I stood pat. As some have said windows of opportunity close fast. Standing pat is interesting when they had the ammunition to take a risk. True they covered their downside this year, but where is the upside for a team that was short the last year? I suppose they can hope for improved coaching and increased production out of a maturing Rivers. Good luck to a very good team.

Some possible upsides this season:1. Rivers should be better.2. The WRs should be better.3. Sproles will be back and may make an impact.4. With Turner, they will have a solid #2 RB, which is important in today's NFL, and an excellent kickoff returner... they will be better at both of those spots than they would be had they traded him.5. Hopefully none of their players will lose games to suspension, as Merriman did last year.6. Their defense was riddled with injuries last year and hopefully will be healthier.I guess I'm curious exactly who those who are criticizing SD think they should/would have gotten. Does everyone think they should have traded Turner for some veteran who would step in and start? If so, who?Does anyone think they could have moved up for Landry? That would have definitely had the potential to make their team better than it is right now, but I don't think that opportunity was there. Same for Willis.So what is this big opportunity they missed? I mean, most seem to feel they should have traded him for a 2008 1st rounder... which would have weakened their team this year in comparison to NE, Denver, Indy, et al.Help me out here.

I find it absolutely amazing that they were offered a 1st round pick to begin with. Draft picks in the NFL are treated like gold, especially first round picks. Based on who San Diego need to compete with to get to the Super Bowl, I think they better have a great and deep secondary. If they had taken that first for Turner, they’d have the flexibility to move up to take Revis (as the Jets did). Everyone is so concerned about LT getting hurt. Grant it, the possibility does exist. Couldn’t you say that about anyone? Lets look at an injury a different way. What if Jammar gets hurt? Good luck stopping the Colts, Bengels, and Patriots passing offense. Revis would have provided a security blanket in the event you lose a CB. Now don’t tell me anyone can get injured. A majority of this thread seems to pound in the importance of Turner in the event LT gets hurt. Same can be said for any player, including a CB.In my mind, based on the great O. Line the Chargers have, I think they could have drafted a Pittman or the someone of the like in the 3rd/4th round area and had success with that RB in the event of LT getting hurt. That O. Line is good and a O. Line dictates quite a bit how the running game will work. Now try finding a replacement for an injured Jammar (or the other starting CB). Any injury in your secondary is going to be magnified 10x’s when matching up against New England, Indy, and Cinci.

 

[Tau837]

Were I S.D.'s G.M I would be somewhat worried that N.E. and Denver improved themselves massively, that Pittsburgh got more physical as did the Jags, that the Colts and Bengals are out there with one being the World Champ while I stood pat. As some have said windows of opportunity close fast. Standing pat is interesting when they had the ammunition to take a risk. True they covered their downside this year, but where is the upside for a team that was short the last year? I suppose they can hope for improved coaching and increased production out of a maturing Rivers. Good luck to a very good team.

Some possible upsides this season:1. Rivers should be better.2. The WRs should be better.3. Sproles will be back and may make an impact.4. With Turner, they will have a solid #2 RB, which is important in today's NFL, and an excellent kickoff returner... they will be better at both of those spots than they would be had they traded him.5. Hopefully none of their players will lose games to suspension, as Merriman did last year.6. Their defense was riddled with injuries last year and hopefully will be healthier.I guess I'm curious exactly who those who are criticizing SD think they should/would have gotten. Does everyone think they should have traded Turner for some veteran who would step in and start? If so, who?Does anyone think they could have moved up for Landry? That would have definitely had the potential to make their team better than it is right now, but I don't think that opportunity was there. Same for Willis.So what is this big opportunity they missed? I mean, most seem to feel they should have traded him for a 2008 1st rounder... which would have weakened their team this year in comparison to NE, Denver, Indy, et al.Help me out here.

I find it absolutely amazing that they were offered a 1st round pick to begin with. Draft picks in the NFL are treated like gold, especially first round picks. Based on who San Diego need to compete with to get to the Super Bowl, I think they better have a great and deep secondary. If they had taken that first for Turner, they’d have the flexibility to move up to take Revis (as the Jets did). Everyone is so concerned about LT getting hurt. Grant it, the possibility does exist. Couldn’t you say that about anyone? Lets look at an injury a different way. What if Jammar gets hurt? Good luck stopping the Colts, Bengels, and Patriots passing offense. Revis would have provided a security blanket in the event you lose a CB. Now don’t tell me anyone can get injured. A majority of this thread seems to pound in the importance of Turner in the event LT gets hurt. Same can be said for any player, including a CB.In my mind, based on the great O. Line the Chargers have, I think they could have drafted a Pittman or the someone of the like in the 3rd/4th round area and had success with that RB in the event of LT getting hurt. That O. Line is good and a O. Line dictates quite a bit how the running game will work. Now try finding a replacement for an injured Jammar (or the other starting CB). Any injury in your secondary is going to be magnified 10x’s when matching up against New England, Indy, and Cinci.

As has been stated, Revis would have been the 4th cornerback this season. If you disagree, please identify which of Jammer, Cromartie, and Florence he would have beaten out and explain why you think that. He would have been a backup, and the second backup at that.Contrast that with Turner, who would be the first backup to Tomlinson and the primary kickoff returner.Which is more valuable?You seem to be focused on how important it is to stop the offenses of Indy, Cincy, and NE. Well, isn't it just as important for the Chargers to maintain a strong offense that those teams have to stop?

 

[grind]

Were I S.D.'s G.M I would be somewhat worried that N.E. and Denver improved themselves massively, that Pittsburgh got more physical as did the Jags, that the Colts and Bengals are out there with one being the World Champ while I stood pat. As some have said windows of opportunity close fast. Standing pat is interesting when they had the ammunition to take a risk. True they covered their downside this year, but where is the upside for a team that was short the last year? I suppose they can hope for improved coaching and increased production out of a maturing Rivers. Good luck to a very good team.

Some possible upsides this season:1. Rivers should be better.2. The WRs should be better.3. Sproles will be back and may make an impact.4. With Turner, they will have a solid #2 RB, which is important in today's NFL, and an excellent kickoff returner... they will be better at both of those spots than they would be had they traded him.5. Hopefully none of their players will lose games to suspension, as Merriman did last year.6. Their defense was riddled with injuries last year and hopefully will be healthier.I guess I'm curious exactly who those who are criticizing SD think they should/would have gotten. Does everyone think they should have traded Turner for some veteran who would step in and start? If so, who?Does anyone think they could have moved up for Landry? That would have definitely had the potential to make their team better than it is right now, but I don't think that opportunity was there. Same for Willis.So what is this big opportunity they missed? I mean, most seem to feel they should have traded him for a 2008 1st rounder... which would have weakened their team this year in comparison to NE, Denver, Indy, et al.Help me out here.

I find it absolutely amazing that they were offered a 1st round pick to begin with. Draft picks in the NFL are treated like gold, especially first round picks. Based on who San Diego need to compete with to get to the Super Bowl, I think they better have a great and deep secondary. If they had taken that first for Turner, they’d have the flexibility to move up to take Revis (as the Jets did). Everyone is so concerned about LT getting hurt. Grant it, the possibility does exist. Couldn’t you say that about anyone? Lets look at an injury a different way. What if Jammar gets hurt? Good luck stopping the Colts, Bengels, and Patriots passing offense. Revis would have provided a security blanket in the event you lose a CB. Now don’t tell me anyone can get injured. A majority of this thread seems to pound in the importance of Turner in the event LT gets hurt. Same can be said for any player, including a CB.In my mind, based on the great O. Line the Chargers have, I think they could have drafted a Pittman or the someone of the like in the 3rd/4th round area and had success with that RB in the event of LT getting hurt. That O. Line is good and a O. Line dictates quite a bit how the running game will work. Now try finding a replacement for an injured Jammar (or the other starting CB). Any injury in your secondary is going to be magnified 10x’s when matching up against New England, Indy, and Cinci.

As has been stated, Revis would have been the 4th cornerback this season. If you disagree, please identify which of Jammer, Cromartie, and Florence he would have beaten out and explain why you think that. He would have been a backup, and the second backup at that.Contrast that with Turner, who would be the first backup to Tomlinson and the primary kickoff returner.Which is more valuable?You seem to be focused on how important it is to stop the offenses of Indy, Cincy, and NE. Well, isn't it just as important for the Chargers to maintain a strong offense that those teams have to stop?

I'm sure the Chargers will be playing a lot of nickle against the big passing offenses. An injury to Jammar and you have no 3rd CB. Also, couldn't Jammar play some safety?I guess my point is that your O. Line is absolutely great. My thought is you can plug most any backup RB behind that line and continue to put points on the board. I don't say that to minimize how good both LT and Turner are, but more to pointing out how great your O. Line is. Finding CB's that can play at a high level is very hard. Finding RB's that can run behind a great O. Line isn't as difficult.I guess the bottom line in my thinking that the AJ really messed up by getting greedy is the fact that you can find quality RB's mid to late in the draft. Happens every year. Add to that, the great O. Line you have, I just don't see the real value in having a great, great backup RB in an offense led by a coach (Turner) that has always featured a single RB. Another first may have given them the flexibilty to draft that Olsen kid from Miami. What if Gates gets hurt? Even if Gates doesn't get hurt, wouldn't having two TE's that can stretch the field create some mismatches and make the offense a little more diverse. Turner has shown in the past he does like to use the TE.

 

[Wilbur Wood]

They could have swapped picks w/ Tennessee as part of the deal and ended up w/ Michael Griffin, who would have been an immediate contributor. OTehr then that, aside from the fact they likely won't get anything for Turner in the offseason, they didn't "lose" mush for 07.

They'll get a 3rd rounder as compensation in '09 for losing Turner. So AJ Smith's choices were:1) Swap picks with Tennessee - (effectively dealing Turner to move up 11 spots)or 2) Keep Turner for the '07 Super Bowl run, and get a 3rd rounder in '09.

Per the NFL Network Radio it (I believe G Brandt was the source), SD was offered the Cowboys 1st round pick (1.22) for Turner during the draft and SD turned it down.Effectively Smith is putting all the eggs in the 2007 basket.

 

[zamboni]

Per the NFL Network Radio it (I believe G Brandt was the source), SD was offered the Cowboys 1st round pick (1.22) for Turner during the draft and SD turned it down.Effectively Smith is putting all the eggs in the 2007 basket.

As a fantasy owner, I'd rather see Turner in SD this year (and look for a better situation next year) than go to a crowded backfield in Dallas.

 

[Englishteacher]

This from a Turner owner in a 6 player keeper league.

 

[Carter_Can_Fly]

Patience is a virtue. I keep telling myself this.

We have one year to wait for the goods from Turner. Also, if LT is knocked up at all and has to miss time Turner will be a good/great start. Plus if SD has things locked up and decide to rest LT late in the season then again Turner can step right in to start this year (small chance but wishful thinking).

Us Turner owners must remain patient. It has been an enjoyable ride and I will look to bump this thread in the near future.

Thanks for all of the input in this thread and it has been a good ride.

 

[grind]

7 to 1600

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

I guess the bottom line in my thinking that the AJ really messed up by getting greedy . . .

This seems like a funny way to characterize AJ's determination that Turner was worth more to the Chargers than what they were offered for him. What does "greed" have to do with that?You might disagree with AJ by contending that Turner isn't as good as AJ thinks he is, or that a fourth CB is more important than a second RB, or whatever. But I don't know why you'd characterize that disagreement as a matter of greed versus generosity instead of it just being a matter of evaluating players differently.

 

[grind]

I guess the bottom line in my thinking that the AJ really messed up by getting greedy . . .

This seems like a funny way to characterize AJ's determination that Turner was worth more to the Chargers than what they were offered for him. What does "greed" have to do with that?You might disagree with AJ by contending that Turner isn't as good as AJ thinks he is, or that a fourth CB is more important than a second RB, or whatever. But I don't know why you'd characterize that disagreement as a matter of greed versus generosity instead of it just being a matter of evaluating players differently.

Not sure I can sum this up just right here, but I will try. I don’t have any question that AJ is a smart guy. That said, I really think that (1) he had every intention of trading Turner and (2) he fully understood that no one in their right mind would give up a 1st and a 3rd. That doesn’t happen for any player. I believe he knew that. I don’t blame him though for putting the 1st and 3rd tender on him, as that gives him control over where Turner goes. I just think he got greedy trying to get as much as he could, which was over fair value, that he ended up getting nothing as the other suitors walked. Jeff Fisher talking about it after the draft seemed to indicate as much. He seemed to say they had a basis for a trade and then the closer and closer it got to finalizing, the more and more AJ wanted in return. Maybe AJ was too arrogant or greedy and ended up blowing the deal completely.Or else, maybe he had no intention of trading Turner in the first place, which would make him a media seeking hound. Any NFL GM could say so and so is available for a 1st and 3rd knowing no one will offer it. Get the media to bite and listen to your every word and then make the announcement that “he is off the market”, while thanking the media for their attention in the process.

 

[yellowdog]

I hope the Chargers go 0-16 and Turner ends up in Denver next year. Yes, I'm bitter.

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

I guess the bottom line in my thinking that the AJ really messed up by getting greedy . . .

This seems like a funny way to characterize AJ's determination that Turner was worth more to the Chargers than what they were offered for him. What does "greed" have to do with that?You might disagree with AJ by contending that Turner isn't as good as AJ thinks he is, or that a fourth CB is more important than a second RB, or whatever. But I don't know why you'd characterize that disagreement as a matter of greed versus generosity instead of it just being a matter of evaluating players differently.

Not sure I can sum this up just right here, but I will try. I don’t have any question that AJ is a smart guy. That said, I really think that (1) he had every intention of trading Turner and (2) he fully understood that no one in their right mind would give up a 1st and a 3rd. That doesn’t happen for any player. I believe he knew that. I don’t blame him though for putting the 1st and 3rd tender on him, as that gives him control over where Turner goes. I just think he got greedy trying to get as much as he could, which was over fair value, that he ended up getting nothing as the other suitors walked. Jeff Fisher talking about it after the draft seemed to indicate as much. He seemed to say they had a basis for a trade and then the closer and closer it got to finalizing, the more and more AJ wanted in return. Maybe AJ was too arrogant or greedy and ended up blowing the deal completely.Or else, maybe he had no intention of trading Turner in the first place, which would make him a media seeking hound. Any NFL GM could say so and so is available for a 1st and 3rd knowing no one will offer it. Get the media to bite and listen to your every word and then make the announcement that “he is off the market”, while thanking the media for their attention in the process.

Anything is possible, but there's generally no reason to make up elaborate conspiracy-theory type stuff about what AJ Smith was thinking. He's generally been a perfectly straight shooter on every issue like this in the past -- Eli/Rivers (when he said he'd pick Eli first and most didn't believe him), Brees/Rivers (when he said he'd keep both in 2005 and most didn't believe him), Donnie Edwards (when he said he'd take a second-rounder for him in 2006 but no less, and would otherwise keep him, and most didn't believe him).It seems to me that Michael Turner fits right into that exact pattern.AJ said all along that it was a one and a three, but that he was flexible, meaning it could be in 2008 instead of all both in 2007. He said he was perfectly happy to keep Michael Turner, but if somebody met his asking price he'd do a trade.Nobody offered a one and a three, so AJ was perfectly happy to keep Michael Turner. The simplest explanation for everything is that AJ meant exactly what he said, just like every other time nobody believed him.

 

[Couch Potato]

Per the NFL Network Radio it (I believe G Brandt was the source), SD was offered the Cowboys 1st round pick (1.22) for Turner during the draft and SD turned it down.

Effectively Smith is putting all the eggs in the 2007 basket.

People can talk forever about what AJ coulda woulda shoulda done, but a smart fantasy player might want to focus on the bolded comment above. If true, (1) chances are decent that Turner becomes a Cowboy next year, and (2) even if that doesn't occur, neither Julius Jones or Marion Barber are held in high enough esteem long term to keep DAL from being willing to give up a 1st round pick for a new RB. Definitely worth a mental note for dynasty players when valuing JJ and MB long term.

 

[Yitbos69]

I thought this was over!!