***OFFICIAL*** Washington Redskins 2011 Off-Season Thread (2 Viewers)

[fatness]

Perhaps nobody will be happier about the Redskins signing nose tackle Ma'ake Kemoeatu on Wednesday than Albert Haynesworth. That is, if Kemoeatu recovers from a torn Achilles he suffered on the first day of camp (that required a second surgery in December, delaying his rehab a couple weeks) and can still play.

But if he can, then the Redskins will have found their nose tackle. And that means Haynesworth can play end when the Redskins line up in a 3-4.

Kemoeatu is a typical beefy nose tackle: He's 6-foot-5, 345 pounds and strong against the run. He's also 31 and may or may not be ready for training camp. His two-year, $7 million contract is front-loaded and contains roster bonuses and workout bonuses.

If he comes through, then the Redskins (who will be hosting running back Larry Johnson on Thursday, incidentally) will have found the nose tackle who is willing to occupy blockers so others can make plays. And Haynesworth can play end.

John Keim

 

[Dexter Manley]

Skins signed TE Sean Ryan. I'm assuming he's being brought in to compete with Yoder as the run blocking TE3.

 

[southeastjerome]

We're just about 1 week into free agency and here is the one line that has me most excited so far:

it is believed Shanahan and Allen will make changes in the player-personnel and scouting departments sometime after the draft.

 

[Sidewinder16]

JLC tweeting that the 'Skins have inquired about Rams DT Adam Carriker.

 

[fatness]

We're just about 1 week into free agency and here is the one line that has me most excited so far:

it is believed Shanahan and Allen will make changes in the player-personnel and scouting departments sometime after the draft.

More good stuff from that article.

The Redskins' overall talent level was considered to be at the bottom of the NFC East for at least the last two seasons, assistant coaches from other teams who have studied Washington's roster recently said.

It's not a fluke when a team finishes last in its division three out of four seasons as the Redskins have. Consistent failure usually indicates a systemic problem in decision-making at the core of the organization, which is not easily overcome.

 

[fatness]

Kemoeatu has been a regular starter in the NFL since 2005, when he was with Baltimore. The questions surrounding him have more to do with his health than his skill level. Vierra said the possibility of him starting for the Redskins came up while Kemoeatu was meeting with coaches Tuesday.

"There's no guarantees on that," Vierra said. "I guarantee you, though, Jim Haslett is going to play the best player."

Vierra said Kemoeatu passed a physical, which means that his Achilles' tendon is structurally fine, but he remains several months from being in football shape. Kemoeatu is expected to resume his rehabilitation work in the Washington area very soon.

"I know right now, he's doing very aggressive treadmill work," Vierra said. "I can tell you if everything goes well, he should be ready by training camp."

Link

 

[fatness]

JLC tweeting that the 'Skins have inquired about Rams DT Adam Carriker.

Lots more JLC

New Redskins defensive coordinator Jim Haslett, who coached Carriker in St. Louis, is a strong proponent of the three-year NFL veteran and would like to add him as Washington transitions to a 3-4 scheme, according to team and league sources. The Redskins also graded Carriker highly coming out of Nebraska when Gregg Williams was running their defense.

Carriker, who missed all of last season because of a right shoulder injury, hasn't lived up to expectations after the Rams drafted him 13th overall in 2007, and he's someone whom other NFL teams believe would be available in a trade. Other teams also have inquired about Carriker, and a deal is possible before the draft next month.

Carriker can toggle between tackle and end, and he has two sacks and 53 tackles in 31 career games. He played end in college, and his transition to tackle has been bumpy.

Albert Haynesworth, who's due a $21 million bonus in April, isn't interested in playing nose tackle in Washington, according to team and league sources, and convincing him to do so will not be easy for a player who often has clashed with coaches. Even after signing former Carolina Panthers nose tackle Maake Kemoeatu, the Redskins could use more 3-4 personnel to fortify their defensive line.

The Redskins, who have shown uncharacteristic restraint in the free-agent market thus far, could be active on the trade market, and defensive end Andre Carter might be on his way out of Washington. Carter has struggled as a tweener linebacker in a 3-4 front, but he has value because he plays a position that has few available alternatives in the free-agent market.

Carter is one of few players to have a no-trade clause in his contract, but he's very open to a change of scenery and would waive that clause should the right opportunity arise, according to team and league sources.

JLC's been gone for awhile now and he's still doing good Redskin coverage. It pays to have contacts.

 

[fatness]

Long article about Shanhan, with some interesting recent quotes.

In 11 years under owner Daniel Snyder, the team has forged a well-earned reputation for chasing the biggest fish on the free agency market. But in the first season under Shanahan and General Manager Bruce Allen, the team has instead focused on second- and third-tier free agents. It's all part of a plan that Allen and Shanahan presented to Snyder before free agency began.

He said that he expects running back Clinton Portis to be present Monday when players report to Redskins Park for the offseason conditioning program, which is technically optional, though highly encouraged. "Oh, I guarantee you Clinton will be there," Shanahan said. "I know Clinton too well. He'll be there and kick off the offseason on the right note. I want my leaders to be there, and hopefully we'll have 100 percent participation and if not, I'll be disappointed."

Shanahan said he similarly expects defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth and cornerback Carlos Rogers to show up.

"You don't come in the first three or four days of free agency and say, 'Hey, we're done,' " Shanahan said.

Shanahan said he is looking forward to seeing his players on Monday, his first chance to survey his team first-hand and better evaluate what holes the team must fill in next month's draft. He is hoping for perfect attendance among players.

"You never know," Shanahan said. "Sometimes you get 100 percent. Sometimes you get 95 percent. I'm looking forward to the people that are there. People are there that want to get better, do everything they can to help our football team win in the future. Just kind of looking forward to spending some time and kicking it off on the right note."

 

[fatness]

The Washington Redskins have contacted the St. Louis Rams about a possible trade for defensive lineman Adam Carriker.

There are rumblings that the Redskins could be looking to move Andre Carter in the deal. He’s reportedly “very open” to leaving Washington if the right situation comes along despite having a no-trade clause in his contract.

LinkThat just seems stupid.

 

[fatness]

Disgruntled Redskins CB Carlos Rogers has told the team that he will report for the start of offseason work Monday, according to a team source.

Rogers, the ninth overall draft pick by Washington in 2005, has sought a trade for weeks, and he bristled when a first-round tender was placed on him, hoping to garner an offer sheet. However, Rogers flew to Washington this week from his Atlanta home to discuss the situation with Redskins coach Mike Shanahan, and the meeting went well, according to sources. If Rogers performs well — he was benched at times in 2009 — he will be considered for a new contract. Rogers left Redskins Park telling coaches and teammates that he feels better about the situation.

JLC

 

[fatness]

Redskins officials are picking up free-agent RB Larry Johnson at the airport this afternoon, according to team sources, and they are very much interested in signing him.

Redskins RB Clinton Portis visited a concussion specialist in Pittsburgh last week and was cleared to begin offseason activities with the team, according to a source, but the team hopes to sign Johnson.

JLC

 

[buster c]

Mike FlorioMarch 11, 2010, 12:01With the signing of Sean Ryan by the Redskins, you can see the handwriting on the wall for Chris Cooley. Coming off an ankle injury, and with the emergence of Fred Davis, the team has a surplus of talent at the position. We're hearing that the Redskins have an agreement in place to trade Cooley to an AFC team, for a 2011 draft pick that could be as high as a 2nd rounder, based on performance.

 

[buster c]

We're just about 1 week into free agency and here is the one line that has me most excited so far:

it is believed Shanahan and Allen will make changes in the player-personnel and scouting departments sometime after the draft.

More good stuff from that article.

The Redskins' overall talent level was considered to be at the bottom of the NFC East for at least the last two seasons, assistant coaches from other teams who have studied Washington's roster recently said.

It's not a fluke when a team finishes last in its division three out of four seasons as the Redskins have. Consistent failure usually indicates a systemic problem in decision-making at the core of the organization, which is not easily overcome.

ya think?

 

[nittanylion]

Long article about Shanhan, with some interesting recent quotes.

In 11 years under owner Daniel Snyder, the team has forged a well-earned reputation for chasing the biggest fish on the free agency market. But in the first season under Shanahan and General Manager Bruce Allen, the team has instead focused on second- and third-tier free agents. It's all part of a plan that Allen and Shanahan presented to Snyder before free agency began.

He said that he expects running back Clinton Portis to be present Monday when players report to Redskins Park for the offseason conditioning program, which is technically optional, though highly encouraged. "Oh, I guarantee you Clinton will be there," Shanahan said. "I know Clinton too well. He'll be there and kick off the offseason on the right note. I want my leaders to be there, and hopefully we'll have 100 percent participation and if not, I'll be disappointed."

Shanahan said he similarly expects defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth and cornerback Carlos Rogers to show up.

"You don't come in the first three or four days of free agency and say, 'Hey, we're done,' " Shanahan said.

Shanahan said he is looking forward to seeing his players on Monday, his first chance to survey his team first-hand and better evaluate what holes the team must fill in next month's draft. He is hoping for perfect attendance among players.

"You never know," Shanahan said. "Sometimes you get 100 percent. Sometimes you get 95 percent. I'm looking forward to the people that are there. People are there that want to get better, do everything they can to help our football team win in the future. Just kind of looking forward to spending some time and kicking it off on the right note."

My feud with The Daniel is longwithstanding, and I'm still too bruised, battered and bitter to have little more than guarded cautious optimism until I see more movement towards the middle, but I have to admit that reading Shanahan quotes like these give me the warm fuzzies. It might just be March CoachSpeak, but those are the kind of things REAL Coaches say...

 

[Sidewinder16]

The Washington Redskins have contacted the St. Louis Rams about a possible trade for defensive lineman Adam Carriker.

There are rumblings that the Redskins could be looking to move Andre Carter in the deal. He’s reportedly “very open” to leaving Washington if the right situation comes along despite having a no-trade clause in his contract.

LinkThat just seems stupid.

Playing Carter in a 3-4 is trying to force a round peg in to a square hole. The roster is short of 3-4 linemen. If Carter isn't going to fit the defense anyway, they may as well trade him for someone who does.

 

[Marvelous]

Mike FlorioMarch 11, 2010, 12:01With the signing of Sean Ryan by the Redskins, you can see the handwriting on the wall for Chris Cooley. Coming off an ankle injury, and with the emergence of Fred Davis, the team has a surplus of talent at the position. We're hearing that the Redskins have an agreement in place to trade Cooley to an AFC team, for a 2011 draft pick that could be as high as a 2nd rounder, based on performance.

I don't see this on PFT anywhere. Where did you get this?

 

[Marvelous]

The Washington Redskins have contacted the St. Louis Rams about a possible trade for defensive lineman Adam Carriker.

There are rumblings that the Redskins could be looking to move Andre Carter in the deal. He’s reportedly “very open” to leaving Washington if the right situation comes along despite having a no-trade clause in his contract.

LinkThat just seems stupid.

Playing Carter in a 3-4 is trying to force a round peg in to a square hole. The roster is short of 3-4 linemen. If Carter isn't going to fit the defense anyway, they may as well trade him for someone who does.

I thought it was questionable to change to a 3-4 since it did not really fit the personnel. Has Shanahan said anything about switching to a 3-4? I was wondering if this was just the media making up a story (like the Julius Peppers stories).

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Devin Thomas....Malcom Kelly....who is stepping it up? What does their future look like?

 

[fatness]

I thought it was questionable to change to a 3-4 since it did not really fit the personnel.

I agree. You can dismiss the "not fitting the personnel" concern if the personnel suck. But Carter doesn't suck, neither does Haynesworth, and our linebackers aren't anything to write home about.

 

[Peggy Starfish]

Mike Florio

March 11, 2010, 12:01

With the signing of Sean Ryan by the Redskins, you can see the handwriting on the wall for Chris Cooley. Coming off an ankle injury, and with the emergence of Fred Davis, the team has a surplus of talent at the position. We're hearing that the Redskins have an agreement in place to trade Cooley to an AFC team, for a 2011 draft pick that could be as high as a 2nd rounder, based on performance.

So Sean Ryan makes Chris Cooley tradeable? Sean Ryan? It's not that I think Cooley's untradeable - we've talked about this for some time - but Florio tying it into Ryan is idiotic.

 

[Peggy Starfish]

The Washington Redskins have contacted the St. Louis Rams about a possible trade for defensive lineman Adam Carriker.

There are rumblings that the Redskins could be looking to move Andre Carter in the deal. He’s reportedly “very open” to leaving Washington if the right situation comes along despite having a no-trade clause in his contract.

LinkThat just seems stupid.

Playing Carter in a 3-4 is trying to force a round peg in to a square hole. The roster is short of 3-4 linemen. If Carter isn't going to fit the defense anyway, they may as well trade him for someone who does.

I thought it was questionable to change to a 3-4 since it did not really fit the personnel. Has Shanahan said anything about switching to a 3-4? I was wondering if this was just the media making up a story (like the Julius Peppers stories).

Absolutely they're switching to a base 3-4, or at least a hybrid. That's the whole purpose behind signing that former Ravens NT. I'd actually be in favor of swapping Carriker and Carter. Carriker would be an excellent 3-4 DE, and he'd be younger and likely less expensive on top of that, not to mention a far better fit for the 3-4 than Carter is. A more or less comparable player to Carriker in terms of role and general attributes is Chris Canty.

Also, fatness, you're right about the LB corps needing help. Keep in mind, however, that if your D-line in a 3-4 is not stout and occupying blockers, then your LB's are not free to roam. That's a huge requirement, and given the dearth of available LB talent in FA the team is correctly focusing on what it can and needs to improve anyway.

 

[Marvelous]

Mike Florio

March 11, 2010, 12:01

With the signing of Sean Ryan by the Redskins, you can see the handwriting on the wall for Chris Cooley. Coming off an ankle injury, and with the emergence of Fred Davis, the team has a surplus of talent at the position. We're hearing that the Redskins have an agreement in place to trade Cooley to an AFC team, for a 2011 draft pick that could be as high as a 2nd rounder, based on performance.

So Sean Ryan makes Chris Cooley tradeable? Sean Ryan? It's not that I think Cooley's untradeable - we've talked about this for some time - but Florio tying it into Ryan is idiotic.

Until I see a link, I don't think Florio wrote this. It does not make any sense.

 

[Peggy Starfish]

Mike Florio

March 11, 2010, 12:01

With the signing of Sean Ryan by the Redskins, you can see the handwriting on the wall for Chris Cooley. Coming off an ankle injury, and with the emergence of Fred Davis, the team has a surplus of talent at the position. We're hearing that the Redskins have an agreement in place to trade Cooley to an AFC team, for a 2011 draft pick that could be as high as a 2nd rounder, based on performance.

So Sean Ryan makes Chris Cooley tradeable? Sean Ryan? It's not that I think Cooley's untradeable - we've talked about this for some time - but Florio tying it into Ryan is idiotic.

Until I see a link, I don't think Florio wrote this. It does not make any sense.

Does not compute.

 

[fatness]

One of the most likeable players in the NFL, a guy you can’t help but root for, and a true ‘good guy’ as voted on by the Redskins media; Andre Carter might be on his way out of Washington. According to a report by the NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora, the veteran defensive end is “very open to a change of scenery.”

When you cover a professional sports team, you are privy to a lot of information that you can say publicly and even more that you are NOT allowed to use, and while I can’t confirm or deny what La Canfora is reporting — I can say that Andre Carter is mentally struggling with every aspect of the switch from defensive end to outside linebacker.

Carter is coming off an 11-sack season, his best single season in that category since 2002 but that was at the defensive end spot, on both sides of the line.

The Redskins have their reasons for switching to a 3-4, but before signing Ma’ake Kemoeatu earlier this week; it was beyond clear that they were lacking the correct personnel for such a move. Even with a true two-gap nose tackle, sources close to Albert Haynesworth have not disputed that he is upset about the conversion to the “34″ front as opposed to his clearly preferred ‘43′ front as a ‘three-technique’ defensive tackle who can penetrate.

The ‘3-4′ is certainly the in thing, but if the scheme takes away the best qualities of Haynesworth’s game, and either puts Carter in a very awkward position for his skills or forces a trade — is it really in the best interests of the Redskins moving forward from a 4-12 year?

LinkTrading Carter for Carricker is something you do at the end of a poker game when you're drunk and you've been losing. We've heard before about Shanahan thinking he can overlook most of the film and reports because he believes he can get something out of a player that no one has gotten from that player before. Carriker has done nothing in the NFL.

 

[Peggy Starfish]

One of the most likeable players in the NFL, a guy you can’t help but root for, and a true ‘good guy’ as voted on by the Redskins media; Andre Carter might be on his way out of Washington. According to a report by the NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora, the veteran defensive end is “very open to a change of scenery.”

When you cover a professional sports team, you are privy to a lot of information that you can say publicly and even more that you are NOT allowed to use, and while I can’t confirm or deny what La Canfora is reporting — I can say that Andre Carter is mentally struggling with every aspect of the switch from defensive end to outside linebacker.

Carter is coming off an 11-sack season, his best single season in that category since 2002 but that was at the defensive end spot, on both sides of the line.

The Redskins have their reasons for switching to a 3-4, but before signing Ma’ake Kemoeatu earlier this week; it was beyond clear that they were lacking the correct personnel for such a move. Even with a true two-gap nose tackle, sources close to Albert Haynesworth have not disputed that he is upset about the conversion to the “34″ front as opposed to his clearly preferred ‘43′ front as a ‘three-technique’ defensive tackle who can penetrate.

The ‘3-4′ is certainly the in thing, but if the scheme takes away the best qualities of Haynesworth’s game, and either puts Carter in a very awkward position for his skills or forces a trade — is it really in the best interests of the Redskins moving forward from a 4-12 year?

LinkTrading Carter for Carricker is something you do at the end of a poker game when you're drunk and you've been losing. We've heard before about Shanahan thinking he can overlook most of the film and reports because he believes he can get something out of a player that no one has gotten from that player before. Carriker has done nothing in the NFL.

Shanahan tends to apply that ego to offensive players though, e.g. Maurice Clarett. I'm not aware of such an example with a defensive player, but I'd like to hear of one if there is one. Haslett's the one behind this, and you're right, I don't like the switch. I'm only discussing personnel moves to help the 3-4 because I now regard it as a fait accompli, not because I'm in support of it.

 

[southeastjerome]

Mike Florio

March 11, 2010, 12:01

With the signing of Sean Ryan by the Redskins, you can see the handwriting on the wall for Chris Cooley. Coming off an ankle injury, and with the emergence of Fred Davis, the team has a surplus of talent at the position. We're hearing that the Redskins have an agreement in place to trade Cooley to an AFC team, for a 2011 draft pick that could be as high as a 2nd rounder, based on performance.

So Sean Ryan makes Chris Cooley tradeable? Sean Ryan? It's not that I think Cooley's untradeable - we've talked about this for some time - but Florio tying it into Ryan is idiotic.

Exactly. Ryan is a decent blocking TE from what I've read, but what does he have 20 something career receptions? Cooley is apt to get 20 catches over a 3 game stretch.

 

[dgreen]

Mike Florio

March 11, 2010, 12:01

With the signing of Sean Ryan by the Redskins, you can see the handwriting on the wall for Chris Cooley. Coming off an ankle injury, and with the emergence of Fred Davis, the team has a surplus of talent at the position. We're hearing that the Redskins have an agreement in place to trade Cooley to an AFC team, for a 2011 draft pick that could be as high as a 2nd rounder, based on performance.

So Sean Ryan makes Chris Cooley tradeable? Sean Ryan? It's not that I think Cooley's untradeable - we've talked about this for some time - but Florio tying it into Ryan is idiotic.

Exactly. Ryan is a decent blocking TE from what I've read, but what does he have 20 something career receptions? Cooley is apt to get 20 catches over a 3 game stretch.

I, in no way, agree with Florio's analysis here. But, here's what I think he's saying...Signing Ryan gives the team 4 TEs worthy of making the team. Only three will make the team. Since Fred Davis emerged last year, he can be the team's receiving TE and Ryan and Yoder will be the blocking TEs. Two receiving TEs is a "surplus of talent" and Cooley will be the one traded because he's coming off an injury.

So, I don't think he's saying Ryan replaces Cooley. He's saying Davis replaces Cooley and Ryan is added as a 3rd TE.

The main thing I don't buy here is that Cooley would be traded for a conditional 2nd rounder in 2011. That's not enough value for him, IMO.

 

[dgreen]

Haslett's the one behind this, and you're right, I don't like the switch. I'm only discussing personnel moves to help the 3-4 because I now regard it as a fait accompli, not because I'm in support of it.

I opposed the move for the same reason I opposed the move to a WCO when Zorn arrived: Because that's just not "Redskins football." We never had the WCO before Zorn and we haven't had the 3-4. It just seems wrong. The more serious concern is obviously that the coaches are making this about a system and not about the players. I don't want them to force a system that doesn't match the abilities on the roster. But, they aren't necessarily doing that. They are clearly looking to acquire the talent to run a 3-4. If they can do that and run it successfully by 2011, I'm ok with that.

 

[Dexter Manley]

One of the most likeable players in the NFL, a guy you can’t help but root for, and a true ‘good guy’ as voted on by the Redskins media; Andre Carter might be on his way out of Washington. According to a report by the NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora, the veteran defensive end is “very open to a change of scenery.”

When you cover a professional sports team, you are privy to a lot of information that you can say publicly and even more that you are NOT allowed to use, and while I can’t confirm or deny what La Canfora is reporting — I can say that Andre Carter is mentally struggling with every aspect of the switch from defensive end to outside linebacker.

Carter is coming off an 11-sack season, his best single season in that category since 2002 but that was at the defensive end spot, on both sides of the line.

The Redskins have their reasons for switching to a 3-4, but before signing Ma’ake Kemoeatu earlier this week; it was beyond clear that they were lacking the correct personnel for such a move. Even with a true two-gap nose tackle, sources close to Albert Haynesworth have not disputed that he is upset about the conversion to the “34″ front as opposed to his clearly preferred ‘43′ front as a ‘three-technique’ defensive tackle who can penetrate.

The ‘3-4′ is certainly the in thing, but if the scheme takes away the best qualities of Haynesworth’s game, and either puts Carter in a very awkward position for his skills or forces a trade — is it really in the best interests of the Redskins moving forward from a 4-12 year?

LinkTrading Carter for Carricker is something you do at the end of a poker game when you're drunk and you've been losing. We've heard before about Shanahan thinking he can overlook most of the film and reports because he believes he can get something out of a player that no one has gotten from that player before. Carriker has done nothing in the NFL.

First, Hasslet's the guy who wants Carriker as he's coached him before and really likes him. Carriker's main problem has been staying healthy. I think he can be a very good 3-4 DE. He's definitely not a NT, as he struggled somewhat playing DT in the 4-3. His natural position is either 3-4 DE or 4-3 SDE.Second, I would trade Carter for Carriker straight up in a heartbeat. The Redskins not only would get a player who fits the 3-4 defense much better than the guy they're giving up, but they would also be getting younger. Also, remember that this guy was the 6th overall pick in the draft a few years ago. He's talented.

Whether we like it or not, it's pretty obvious the team is going to the 3-4, so trading a guy who doesn't fit the system (Carter) for someone who does (Carriker) makes sense. And the Skins getting the younger player is a bonus too.

The only thing I'm concerened about is the possibility of the team giving up a draft pick as part of the deal. Unless it's an uber late day 3 pick, I don't want them including a draft choice in this deal.

 

[dgreen]

The only thing I'm concerened about is the possibility of the team giving up a draft pick as part of the deal. Unless it's an uber late day 3 pick, I don't want them including a draft choice in this deal.

With this administration, that's less of a worry to me. They aren't going to outbid themselves.

 

[duckhook]

Mike Florio

March 11, 2010, 12:01

With the signing of Sean Ryan by the Redskins, you can see the handwriting on the wall for Chris Cooley. Coming off an ankle injury, and with the emergence of Fred Davis, the team has a surplus of talent at the position. We're hearing that the Redskins have an agreement in place to trade Cooley to an AFC team, for a 2011 draft pick that could be as high as a 2nd rounder, based on performance.

So Sean Ryan makes Chris Cooley tradeable? Sean Ryan? It's not that I think Cooley's untradeable - we've talked about this for some time - but Florio tying it into Ryan is idiotic.

Exactly. Ryan is a decent blocking TE from what I've read, but what does he have 20 something career receptions? Cooley is apt to get 20 catches over a 3 game stretch.

I, in no way, agree with Florio's analysis here. But, here's what I think he's saying...Signing Ryan gives the team 4 TEs worthy of making the team. Only three will make the team. Since Fred Davis emerged last year, he can be the team's receiving TE and Ryan and Yoder will be the blocking TEs. Two receiving TEs is a "surplus of talent" and Cooley will be the one traded because he's coming off an injury.

So, I don't think he's saying Ryan replaces Cooley. He's saying Davis replaces Cooley and Ryan is added as a 3rd TE.

The main thing I don't buy here is that Cooley would be traded for a conditional 2nd rounder in 2011. That's not enough value for him, IMO.

Agreed. And he's right. Cooley has been a nice player, but Davis isn't that much of a drop. So getting a pick for Cooley to fill other holes makes sense. But a 2nd in 2011 seems low. A 2nd this year makes more sense. I guess we could be getting back a player in addition to the 2011 pick, which also makes sense. I could easily see this being with the Patriots, who have a bunch of picks again.

 

[Sebowski]

Couple things:

Signing Ryan is the end of the line for Yoder, not Cooley.

People that are saying Davis isn't a drop from Cooley: did you watch the agmes or just look at the stats? I didn't miss a snap, and Davis is a big drop off from Cooley if you ask me.

I've been hoping the 3-4 talk was premature since there are no direct quotes from the staff about it, but after reading the article below I consider it a done deal. That is too bad. We don't have the personell for it. When Tomlin went from Minnesota to Pittsburgh he was a very successful 4-3 coach, but he stayed with the Pitt 3-4 because that is what they were designed to do best. I really don't like this move. As has been pointed out, we don't have the LBs or DLinemen for it.

If Carter wants out, he sure is good at being politically correct. Great interview here:

http://www.homermcfanboy.com/2010/03/11/ca...osition-scheme/

carter addresses new position, scheme

Category: redskins — b murf @ 12:29 pm

(photo by Brian Murphy)

Normally, this is the time of year when the Washington Redskins reign supreme. Wins might be hard to come by once actual games are played, but the offseason is when the Redskins take center stage.

But a funny thing happened this year. Since the dynamic duo of coach Mike Shanahan and general manager Bruce Allen took over, Redskins Park has become a ghost town. Big name free agents have become an afterthought and the people who follow this team are left to adjust to a new way of life.

Since things have been so quiet, we decided to reach out to our old friend Andre Carter, the defensive end who tied for the team lead with 11 sacks last season, to see how the offseason is treating him and to get his reaction on the sudden inactivity in Ashburn.

Okay, so where are you and how are you?

“I’m back in California,” Carter said. “I was in Virginia for a hot second because my wife and I bought a home in SoCal, so we were there to pack some stuff up. Now we’re out here trying to get situated, so we’re staying pretty busy.”

So basically, you’re saying you want out of D.C. and you no longer want to be a member of the Washington Redskins …

(Laughs.) “Nah, nah, nah, man. I’m still a Redskin,” he said. “Well, I think so.”

That’s one of the reasons we wanted to contact you. It seems like every time we come across an article mentioning your name, the writer is asking if you have a place in the new defense. Are you paying attention to all of this?

“My agent mentioned the article to me earlier,” Carter said. “I don’t think Jason Reid was trying to cause any controversy or anything of that nature. I think, based upon my history of transitioning from a defensive end to a linebacker back in 2005, he knows my work ethic, but at the same time, he knows what I do best. I’m just taking everything in stride. If that’s something the team wants me to do, then I’m going to do it.

I’ll go out and give it my best,” he continued. “Now, will I be the best linebacker? I’ll say this – I’ll be the best linebacker I can be. I know this is a business, but I’m also optimistic. I’ll take on whatever they ask of me and I’m going to be a professional about it. I’m not going to mope around and feel sorry for myself.”

Everyone keeps going back to your time with the San Francisco 49ers when they transitioned to a 3-4 defense and then you ended up leaving in free agency. Can you explain what happened and what that experience was like?

“Sure. They switched to a 3-4 defense and everything, as far as assignments and techniques, was like nothing I had ever been through before playing defensive end,” Carter said. “The scheme they were going for was a lot like the Baltimore Ravens style of defense. When it came to blitzing and things like that, I was lined up on the number-two slot. We would have two people lined up on the outside – myself and a cornerback. So, as I was coming towards the quarterback, the running back would scan out to protect. As a defensive end, I would naturally go in and then cut out or go out and then cut back in. I usually had the option. But now, as a linebacker, I always had to go inside, which was an adjustment.

“Now, I’ve talked with Coach [Jim] Haslett and I understand that this 3-4 scheme is nothing like that Baltimore Ravens scheme and what I experienced in 2005,” he continued. “For me, the most difficult part of that experience was coverage. Back then I had to cover the tight end man to man, and that was an experience. I learned how to do it as the season went on, but man, talk about getting your butt whooped. And there were times when I had to line up on the number-two receivers when they were lined up in the slot. That was different.

“We played a cover-2, so I had to jam him at the line of scrimmage,” Carter said. “You learn little stuff like how to work your hips a certain way, because if I don’t flip them, he’s going to beat me deep. Yeah, there were times I learned that the hard way. (Laughs.) But I never complained and I always put in the work. Towards the end of the year, they switched the scheme up a little and I worked more with the defensive linemen. But that experience was kind of tough because I had been a defensive end my whole life.”

You mentioned you’ve talked with Haslett. How did that conversation go and what did he say as far as his plans for you?

“He said I’ll be the left outside linebacker and Brian Orakpo will be on the right,” he said. “I’m used to being on the other side, but hey, he’s the boss. Because I’m so used to being on the other side, I’ll have to work on some things, like transferring certain muscle groups and things like that. But that’s part of the job. There were times last year, with some of our packages, when I would line up on the left side, so I’m familiar with it. If that’s what they want, then fine. As far as dropping back in coverage and things of that nature, the way he explained it to me, it’s a lot easier than my experiences as a linebacker in 2005.”

Will you still get chances to put that hand in the dirt and rush the quarterback?

“The way he explained it to me, that’s still part of the plan,” Carter said. “It may be on sub packages or whatever, but that’s all stuff we’ll talk more about later. But yeah, that’s stuff we did talk about.”

Okay, so you’re a veteran player with a solid resume as a defensive end on the right side and now we’re talking about you being a left outside linebacker dropping back in coverage instead of rushing the passer. Have you had any thoughts about what’s best for you, rather than what may be best for the Redskins?

“You know man, I’m a guy who is always going to do what’s best for the organization,” he said. “I know what I can do. But I understand this is a business and when a new regime comes in, they’re going to want to make changes. It’s on you to adapt to their style.”

It’s easy for fans to spout off clichés like “it’s a business,” but it’s a little different for the players in that locker room. The Redskins just cut 10 players, many of which were veteran players who had been your teammates for a while now.

“You know, it’s so tough because we had such a great history with a lot of these guys,” Carter said. “Guys like Cornelius Griffin – who I’d worked with since I got here – when I came in, he welcomed me with open arms. We lost some leaders with those cuts, and what they brought to the team will be hard to replicate or replace. It’s very unfortunate. But like Ladell Betts told me, the show moves on. Either you’re in or you’re out. But I think this will definitely be an adjustment because guys like those, who show such passion and lead by example, they’re hard to come by.

“It just means that come training camp, new guys are going to have to step up and fill that void,” he continued. “I’m going to have to step up, be more vocal and lead by example. Not just with my work ethic, but also be more vocal every now and then. It’s always very important to have good, veteran leadership on your team to set the standard.

“Also, I look at the loss of Rock Cartwright,” he said. “He meant a lot to our special teams. Before that we lost Khary Campbell. Special teams is an area you can’t take lightly. You have to find guys that have a passion for it, because not everybody can do it. I mean, we’re not just losing good guys on the field, we’re also losing great guys off the field.”

Clearly with these moves, head coach Mike Shanahan and his new coaching staff sent a not-so-subtle message to the rest of the roster that they better show up in shape and put in time with all of the voluntary workouts, right?

“You can’t take any of this lightly. You’ve got to come correct,” Carter said. “But if you look at all of the outside distractions we had last year, Coach Shanahan isn’t playing around. He’s putting his foot down, but it’s understandable. There’s a lot of work to be done, as far as rebuilding this team, establishing camaraderie and everything. That doesn’t happen overnight. We just need to work hard and stick together and anything is possible.”

We talked before and you told us that when you hit free agency, one of your visits was to the Denver Broncos. You met with Mike Shanahan and strongly considered signing there. Could you tell us about that?

“I took my trip to visit with the Redskins and told them within 24 hours I’d let them know what my decision was,” he said. “I asked them to be patient because what you usually see is a player makes his first visit and that team pushes hard to sign him. I wanted to go out there and see what they had to offer and Denver is a great organization. My dad played there, so in my mind, I would have been a second generation player with a great franchise. I met with Shanahan and the owner out there, but in the end, I just felt a better connection with the Redskins.

“Joe Gibbs sold me on coming here and I definitely enjoyed playing for Gregg Williams and Greg Blache,” Carter said. “They gave me that old-school, hard-nosed football that I loved and had played in college. Those were the men who influenced my decision and enabled me to become a Redskin.

Since you’ve spent some time with Shanahan, can you tell us what we can expect with him this season?

“He’s a proven winner,” he said. “He’s got two Super Bowl rings and knows what it takes to be successful in this league. Those rings are hard to come by, so he’s coming in with a lot of respect. Now we’ve got to earn his respect.

“I’ve had a few teammates play for him and they say he’s kind of a disciplinarian,” Carter said. “If you’re not doing the right thing, he’s going to call you out. But sometimes that’s what you need.”

Were you surprised when the first day of free agency hit and the Redskins, who are known to be aggressive, were nowhere to be found?

“Yeah, that was a first,” he said. “It’s a sign of a change in identity. For the last 10 years or whatever, they’ve gone out and tried to get the biggest names. Sometimes it worked. Sometimes it didn’t. Now it looks like they’re out to change the perception of the organization, which could be a good thing. It’ll be interesting to see what happens in the draft as well.”

Speaking of the draft, what would you do with the fourth pick in the draft?

“We need offensive linemen,” Carter said. “With the loss of Chris Samuels and Randy Thomas, we need some more young and hungry guys to step in for us. I always enjoy watching the draft. I try to tune in for the first two or three rounds, so it’ll be interesting to see what they decide.”

So far every single player that has been asked about the draft has said O-Line, and that even includes at least one O-Lineman.

 

[dgreen]

Couple things:Signing Ryan is the end of the line for Yoder, not Cooley. People that are saying Davis isn't a drop from Cooley: did you watch the agmes or just look at the stats? I didn't miss a snap, and Davis is a big drop off from Cooley if you ask me.

What drop off do you see? My gut instinct is to say there is a drop off, but I'm not sure there is much of one.

I've been hoping the 3-4 talk was premature since there are no direct quotes from the staff about it, but after reading the article below I consider it a done deal. That is too bad. We don't have the personell for it. When Tomlin went from Minnesota to Pittsburgh he was a very successful 4-3 coach, but he stayed with the Pitt 3-4 because that is what they were designed to do best. I really don't like this move. As has been pointed out, we don't have the LBs or DLinemen for it.

Tomlinson was going into a completely different situation. He was taking over a winning franchise that didn't need to be dismantled. If you are rebuilding a team, you might as well install your system since you're going through changes anyway.

 

[buster c]

Mike Florio

March 11, 2010, 12:01

With the signing of Sean Ryan by the Redskins, you can see the handwriting on the wall for Chris Cooley. Coming off an ankle injury, and with the emergence of Fred Davis, the team has a surplus of talent at the position. We're hearing that the Redskins have an agreement in place to trade Cooley to an AFC team, for a 2011 draft pick that could be as high as a 2nd rounder, based on performance.

So Sean Ryan makes Chris Cooley tradeable? Sean Ryan? It's not that I think Cooley's untradeable - we've talked about this for some time - but Florio tying it into Ryan is idiotic.

Exactly. Ryan is a decent blocking TE from what I've read, but what does he have 20 something career receptions? Cooley is apt to get 20 catches over a 3 game stretch.

I, in no way, agree with Florio's analysis here. But, here's what I think he's saying...Signing Ryan gives the team 4 TEs worthy of making the team. Only three will make the team. Since Fred Davis emerged last year, he can be the team's receiving TE and Ryan and Yoder will be the blocking TEs. Two receiving TEs is a "surplus of talent" and Cooley will be the one traded because he's coming off an injury.

So, I don't think he's saying Ryan replaces Cooley. He's saying Davis replaces Cooley and Ryan is added as a 3rd TE.

The main thing I don't buy here is that Cooley would be traded for a conditional 2nd rounder in 2011. That's not enough value for him, IMO.

btw - this snippet came from the comments section from the WaPo web page, probably after a Reid post. So I have no PFT link. much as we all love Cooley, in a team-building mode, it makes sense to trade him now, before he begins to decline. We can get a high pick, draft for a position of need, and get 10 years out of the guy. I don't see 10 more from ol' #47.

 

[fatness]

The main thing I don't buy here is that Cooley would be traded for a conditional 2nd rounder in 2011. That's not enough value for him, IMO.

I'm not sure they can get a 2nd round pick for Cooley this year. So the question becomes, do they take a 3rd this year or a 2nd next year? They're not exactly in 'win now' mode, so perhaps the 2nd round pick next year is pretty good. Imagine one 1st round pick and two 2nd round picks next year, for a rebuilding team with (still) a lot of needs. This is going to take years to rebuild.

 

[Marvelous]

btw - this snippet came from the comments section from the WaPo web page, probably after a Reid post. So I have no PFT link. much as we all love Cooley, in a team-building mode, it makes sense to trade him now, before he begins to decline. We can get a high pick, draft for a position of need, and get 10 years out of the guy. I don't see 10 more from ol' #47.

So it is from some guy posting as Mike Florio at the Washington Post. It's not the PFT Mike Florio.

 

[Sebowski]

The main thing I don't buy here is that Cooley would be traded for a conditional 2nd rounder in 2011. That's not enough value for him, IMO.

I'm not sure they can get a 2nd round pick for Cooley this year. So the question becomes, do they take a 3rd this year or a 2nd next year? They're not exactly in 'win now' mode, so perhaps the 2nd round pick next year is pretty good. Imagine one 1st round pick and two 2nd round picks next year, for a rebuilding team with (still) a lot of needs.

This is going to take years to rebuild.

It doesn't have to. I watched the Chargers go from 4-12 in '03 to 12-4 the next year with very little change. From '02-'06 the Cardinals averaged 5 wins a year. Two years later they were in the Super Bowl.

The NFL is a crazy league. Anything can happen on any given Sunday/Season.

 

[Sebowski]

btw - this snippet came from the comments section from the WaPo web page, probably after a Reid post. So I have no PFT link. much as we all love Cooley, in a team-building mode, it makes sense to trade him now, before he begins to decline. We can get a high pick, draft for a position of need, and get 10 years out of the guy. I don't see 10 more from ol' #47.

So it is from some guy posting as Mike Florio at the Washington Post. It's not the PFT Mike Florio.

Sounds like the guy did such a perfect parody of Mike it lead some to believe it was really him

 

[Marvelous]

Mike Florio

March 11, 2010, 12:01

With the signing of Sean Ryan by the Redskins, you can see the handwriting on the wall for Chris Cooley. Coming off an ankle injury, and with the emergence of Fred Davis, the team has a surplus of talent at the position. We're hearing that the Redskins have an agreement in place to trade Cooley to an AFC team, for a 2011 draft pick that could be as high as a 2nd rounder, based on performance.

So Sean Ryan makes Chris Cooley tradeable? Sean Ryan? It's not that I think Cooley's untradeable - we've talked about this for some time - but Florio tying it into Ryan is idiotic.

Exactly. Ryan is a decent blocking TE from what I've read, but what does he have 20 something career receptions? Cooley is apt to get 20 catches over a 3 game stretch.

I, in no way, agree with Florio's analysis here. But, here's what I think he's saying...Signing Ryan gives the team 4 TEs worthy of making the team. Only three will make the team. Since Fred Davis emerged last year, he can be the team's receiving TE and Ryan and Yoder will be the blocking TEs. Two receiving TEs is a "surplus of talent" and Cooley will be the one traded because he's coming off an injury.

So, I don't think he's saying Ryan replaces Cooley. He's saying Davis replaces Cooley and Ryan is added as a 3rd TE.

The main thing I don't buy here is that Cooley would be traded for a conditional 2nd rounder in 2011. That's not enough value for him, IMO.

Going into training camp, the Redskins will have 4 or 5 TEs on the 80 man roster. I thought I read that this will be Ryan's 6th team in 6 years. That makes him a journeyman/borderline NFL player. You don't make major roster moves based on signing a guy like this.

 

[dgreen]

The main thing I don't buy here is that Cooley would be traded for a conditional 2nd rounder in 2011. That's not enough value for him, IMO.

I'm not sure they can get a 2nd round pick for Cooley this year. So the question becomes, do they take a 3rd this year or a 2nd next year? They're not exactly in 'win now' mode, so perhaps the 2nd round pick next year is pretty good. Imagine one 1st round pick and two 2nd round picks next year, for a rebuilding team with (still) a lot of needs.

This is going to take years to rebuild.

It doesn't have to. I watched the Chargers go from 4-12 in '03 to 12-4 the next year with very little change. From '02-'06 the Cardinals averaged 5 wins a year. Two years later they were in the Super Bowl.

The NFL is a crazy league. Anything can happen on any given Sunday/Season.

I agree it doesn't have to, but I don't think we're going to see a one year turnaround. In 2010, I'm looking for something similar to what we saw in 2004 when Gibbs returned. I want to see a change in the organization as a whole. I want to see better played games where they actually give a better opponent a run for their money. I think we're going to see just how bad the coaching was on this team the last couple years. (I don't put all the blame on them, of course. The results we saw in 2009 was a combination of an overmatched coaching staff that was provided players by an incompetent front office.)I fully expect a playoff caliber team in 2011. I'm not saying a SB caliber team, just playoffs. I think they can turn it around that fast since they hopefully have a legit coaching staff and front office.

 

[Marvelous]

btw - this snippet came from the comments section from the WaPo web page, probably after a Reid post. So I have no PFT link. much as we all love Cooley, in a team-building mode, it makes sense to trade him now, before he begins to decline. We can get a high pick, draft for a position of need, and get 10 years out of the guy. I don't see 10 more from ol' #47.

So it is from some guy posting as Mike Florio at the Washington Post. It's not the PFT Mike Florio.

Sounds like the guy did such a perfect parody of Mike it lead some to believe it was really him

People are so anxious to skewer Mike Florio. I actually like this stuff, although he does a lot more news reporting than analysis and rumor mongering now. In the past, he speculation on the Redskins have been terrible and it is clear he had no inside sources with the Redskins. But his has not been doing that that the past couple of years.

 

[Sebowski]

Couple things:Signing Ryan is the end of the line for Yoder, not Cooley. People that are saying Davis isn't a drop from Cooley: did you watch the agmes or just look at the stats? I didn't miss a snap, and Davis is a big drop off from Cooley if you ask me.

What drop off do you see? My gut instinct is to say there is a drop off, but I'm not sure there is much of one.

The ball bounces off his hands too much for my taste. I don't think he is as good after the catch either. Cooley is one of the best in the league at reading a zone and getting to the open spot. I haven't watched enough film on Davis to say he is definitely inferior in that department, but I would bet on it.

I've been hoping the 3-4 talk was premature since there are no direct quotes from the staff about it, but after reading the article below I consider it a done deal. That is too bad. We don't have the personell for it. When Tomlin went from Minnesota to Pittsburgh he was a very successful 4-3 coach, but he stayed with the Pitt 3-4 because that is what they were designed to do best. I really don't like this move. As has been pointed out, we don't have the LBs or DLinemen for it.

Tomlinson was going into a completely different situation. He was taking over a winning franchise that didn't need to be dismantled. If you are rebuilding a team, you might as well install your system since you're going through changes anyway.

I get that, and I will hope for the best, but I still don't like it. If we aren't going to use our guys to there best capabilities we should get anything we can for them and start to develop younger guys. I am already having nightmares about Orakpo and Carter as our outside LBs trying to drop into coverage. Just hit me, if the plan is to have Rak on the right and Carter on the left, that leaves Rocky in the middle with Fletcher. I thought everything I read about Rocky is that he would be best as an outside LB in a 3-4. Can any X's and O's guys tell me why Carter would be better at OLB instead of DE in a 3-4?

 

[buster c]

btw - this snippet came from the comments section from the WaPo web page, probably after a Reid post. So I have no PFT link. much as we all love Cooley, in a team-building mode, it makes sense to trade him now, before he begins to decline. We can get a high pick, draft for a position of need, and get 10 years out of the guy. I don't see 10 more from ol' #47.

So it is from some guy posting as Mike Florio at the Washington Post. It's not the PFT Mike Florio.

Sounds like the guy did such a perfect parody of Mike it lead some to believe it was really him

People are so anxious to skewer Mike Florio. I actually like this stuff, although he does a lot more news reporting than analysis and rumor mongering now. In the past, he speculation on the Redskins have been terrible and it is clear he had no inside sources with the Redskins. But his has not been doing that that the past couple of years.

Or maybe the PFT post from Florio was deleted? I like PFT. I think most hatred directed towards sports media is borne of jealousy, probably from a bunch of never-was desk-jockeys thinking they could do better. To be fair, most probably could. But most media bashing seems like a waste of time.

 

[dgreen]

Couple things:Signing Ryan is the end of the line for Yoder, not Cooley. People that are saying Davis isn't a drop from Cooley: did you watch the agmes or just look at the stats? I didn't miss a snap, and Davis is a big drop off from Cooley if you ask me.

What drop off do you see? My gut instinct is to say there is a drop off, but I'm not sure there is much of one.

The ball bounces off his hands too much for my taste. I don't think he is as good after the catch either. Cooley is one of the best in the league at reading a zone and getting to the open spot. I haven't watched enough film on Davis to say he is definitely inferior in that department, but I would bet on it.

Cooley has had some pretty big drops, too. I think we remember Davis' more because he had a couple that popped right up in the air and were intercepted. I think Davis is going to be a really good receiving TE.

Just hit me, if the plan is to have Rak on the right and Carter on the left, that leaves Rocky in the middle with Fletcher. I thought everything I read about Rocky is that he would be best as an outside LB in a 3-4. Can any X's and O's guys tell me why Carter would be better at OLB instead of DE in a 3-4?

You're trying to fit the current personnel (on March 12) into the 3-4. I don't think that's what Haslett will do.Carter would be a better OLB than DE in a 3-4 because 3-4 DEs need to be close to 300 lbs. The 3-4 DEs don't line up outside the tackles shoulder and use speed. They are more inside and have to be able to take on blockers.

 

[Sebowski]

Couple things:Signing Ryan is the end of the line for Yoder, not Cooley. People that are saying Davis isn't a drop from Cooley: did you watch the agmes or just look at the stats? I didn't miss a snap, and Davis is a big drop off from Cooley if you ask me.

What drop off do you see? My gut instinct is to say there is a drop off, but I'm not sure there is much of one.

The ball bounces off his hands too much for my taste. I don't think he is as good after the catch either. Cooley is one of the best in the league at reading a zone and getting to the open spot. I haven't watched enough film on Davis to say he is definitely inferior in that department, but I would bet on it.

Cooley has had some pretty big drops, too. I think we remember Davis' more because he had a couple that popped right up in the air and were intercepted. I think Davis is going to be a really good receiving TE.

Just hit me, if the plan is to have Rak on the right and Carter on the left, that leaves Rocky in the middle with Fletcher. I thought everything I read about Rocky is that he would be best as an outside LB in a 3-4. Can any X's and O's guys tell me why Carter would be better at OLB instead of DE in a 3-4?

You're trying to fit the current personnel (on March 12) into the 3-4. I don't think that's what Haslett will do.Carter would be a better OLB than DE in a 3-4 because 3-4 DEs need to be close to 300 lbs. The 3-4 DEs don't line up outside the tackles shoulder and use speed. They are more inside and have to be able to take on blockers.

Yeah, but my point is 3-4 LBs have to cover, and Carter can't do that either. He is over 250 lbs. Can't he add 10 lbs of muscle and try DE? Will he really just get run over as a 3-4 DE when he is a very good 4-3 DE? 4-3 DEs sometime stunt in and take on the middle of the line. I guess I am just having some trouble thinking a transition to a LB would be a better fit than a different technique DE when he is a natural DE. I do understand that is "just understood" that is the case.So you are assuming either Carter or Rocky are gone by training camp.

 

[Sebowski]

I'll go on record supporting the LJ signing. I like him better than Willie Parker. If Shanny sees something left in a RB, I'm on board.

 

[fatness]

[This is going to take years to rebuild.

It doesn't have to. I watched the Chargers go from 4-12 in '03 to 12-4 the next year with very little change. From '02-'06 the Cardinals averaged 5 wins a year. Two years later they were in the Super Bowl.The NFL is a crazy league. Anything can happen on any given Sunday/Season.

There's rebuilding the roster and there's having a better record, and they're not exactly the same. I think the Redskins last year were probably in the bottom 5-8 teams in the league as far as just real NFL talent on their roster. There were very few of our starters who would start for other teams, and very few backups who would be backups for other teams. Vinnie had just let them bleed talent for years.

 

[Swing 51]

I'll go on record supporting the LJ signing. I like him better than Willie Parker. If Shanny sees something left in a RB, I'm on board.

Anyone see the contract details?

 

[fatness]

So you are assuming either Carter or Rocky are gone by training camp.

I'm assuming Carter will be gone. I don't agree with doing that, but that's what I see happening.

 

[fatness]

I'll go on record supporting the LJ signing. I like him better than Willie Parker. If Shanny sees something left in a RB, I'm on board.

Anyone see the contract details?

The source said Johnson agreed to a three-year deal that will pay him up to $12 million. News of Johnson's signing was first reported this afternoon by ESPN.com

That's per Rick Maese, but I don't know how much of it is guaranteed.