SD RB's.... (1 Viewer)

[Rick Blaine]

I know the conventional wisdom is that the Chargers will be selecting a back early in the draft...but does anybody think that Tolbert or Hester hold any value as sleepers to win the job? Could the organization secretly covet one of the backs already on their roster? Any homer insight?

And if so...which one holds more potential value? Sigmund, Waldman, Cecil, any thoughts?

All opinions appreciated.

 

[duece2626]

zero chance either of those 2 are the starters.

 

[identikit]

I believe they're going to draft their starting RB....

I think they're definitely a pass 1st (2nd + 3rd) team (if they aren't already).

 

[Sigmund Bloom]

Trade, Draft, Free Agency all in play. I dont think Tolbert or Hester will come in as starter by a long shot, but if their acquisitions dont work out/get hurt, I think Tolbert is a very talented guy with the ball in his hands, he was a tailback in college, he could be a surprise contributor at RB.

 

[Bandite]

I know this is reaching far.........but what about Michael Bennet? He's still there right?

 

[Garts]

I'd love them to acquire Tashard Choice from Dallas...but doubt that happens.

He is a starter trapped as a back-up.

Choice can do it all quite effectively.

 

[Boltz Boy]

I'd be shocked if Hester or Tolbert get much more work than last year. Of the two, Tolbert has looked better, but I'd expect him to mainly stay in the FB role he played last year.

Michael Bennett was only on the team at the end of the last two years as emergency insurance, I would be surprised if he was even on the roster to start the year.

I think the team is looking trade right now, and if they can get one worked out, I think that drops the round when they'll select a RB in the draft. (Meaning, if they get a trade done, I think they go RB in the 2nd or 3rd. No trade, and I think they use the 1st rounder at RB, although I'm not sure what'll be there.)

For FF purposes, whoever the SD back is, he'll probably be overvalued. This really is a pass first team, and while it's a very good offense that a new back will probably put up decent numbers in, I don't think he'll perform up to where expectations will be.

 

[zamboni]

I think the team is looking trade right now

Michael Bush may be a guy they're looking at again, although the intra-division rivalry may keep Al Davis from doing such a trade.

 

[Polar Dude]

I know the conventional wisdom is that the Chargers will be selecting a back early in the draft...but does anybody think that Tolbert or Hester hold any value as sleepers to win the job?

I'll be the dissenting voice. I don't think AJ will make RB a big priority. The offense performed really well without much burst from that position last year. My guess would be that they feel someone on their roster could perform well if there were upgrades on the line. However, if there is a guy in the draft or free agency that AJ thinks is a real steal, he will definitely pull the trigger on a RB. I have my doubts that it will be a big name guy though.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

Willie Parker and then draft another RB so they have a tandem to work with. Parker 15 carries a game, some weeks a little more or less, rookie will be groomed to be the 1 Back for season 2 and beyond.

Just my opinion

 

[mlball77]

Willie Parker and then draft another RB so they have a tandem to work with. Parker 15 carries a game, some weeks a little more or less, rookie will be groomed to be the 1 Back for season 2 and beyond.Just my opinion

I like this call. Along these lines, what is Larry Johnson's status right now?There are several decent vets that could sign a 2-year contract to help groom a rookie to take over the job at some point in 2010 or 2011.

 

[Tau837]

Willie Parker and then draft another RB so they have a tandem to work with. Parker 15 carries a game, some weeks a little more or less, rookie will be groomed to be the 1 Back for season 2 and beyond.Just my opinion

Willie Parker is a poor fit for the Chargers offense IMO. The Chargers throw to their RBs a lot, and Parker is not a good receiving back. He also turns 30 in November and last made an impact in the rushing game in 2007.I don't see it.

 

[Blackjacks]

I'll disagree with alot of you due to the fact I think SD is going to trade for a big name rb. They are a team readey for a superbowl run, why would you not address a major part of your offense

I see DeAngelo ending up there for Cromartie and perhaps a late pick.

I could also see Choice getting traded there and perhaps Portis if he got cut......maybe.

Chester Taylor would also be a strong possibility if he leaves Minnesota via free agency

 

[Warhogs]

I have a hunch that they work out a deal and bring in Marshawn Lynch cheap.

 

[BoltBacker]

I'll disagree with alot of you due to the fact I think SD is going to trade for a big name rb. They are a team readey for a superbowl run, why would you not address a major part of your offenseI see DeAngelo ending up there for Cromartie and perhaps a late pick.I could also see Choice getting traded there and perhaps Portis if he got cut......maybe. Chester Taylor would also be a strong possibility if he leaves Minnesota via free agency

I like what you have to say about the trade possibility though it will take a lot of draft choices to go along with Cromartie to end up with DeAngelo. I'd much rather they trade for Lynch who seems to have worn out his welcome in BUF. I just think he's going to be labeled a "bust" there because of expectations when he was drafted and it looks likely he'll never completely own that job by himself. He'd be MUCH cheaper than DeAngelo and I'm hoping SD keeps Cromartie to return kicks/punts now that Sproles will most likely be gone.I highly doubt Chester would be possible because of the final 8 rules that restrict SD. Neither Tomlinson or Sproles get Taylor $ in FA. But those very FA restrictions make a trade all the more likely imo. That doesn't mean they'll trade for a clear cut starter though, perhaps just part of a RBBC they can't find in the draft at the right price. It seems doubtful their top 2 leading rushers in 2010 are on the roster currently, but I don't think they need to panic to get a RB. The only RB they should pursue in the first round is Spiller via trade imo. There are going to be RBBC guys available in the third/fourth round of the draft.

 

[BoltBacker]

I have a hunch that they work out a deal and bring in Marshawn Lynch cheap.

That's the best case scenario. I'd feel better about it if there hadn't been a coaching change though. I'm pretty sure the old coaching staff would have let Lynch go pretty cheap but it's completely up in the air what the new staffs plans may be.

 

[BigTex]

I'd love them to acquire Tashard Choice from Dallas...but doubt that happens.He is a starter trapped as a back-up.Choice can do it all quite effectively.

I believe this has come up and the Cowboys said they were not interested.

 

[BuckeyeArt]

I highly doubt Chester would be possible because of the final 8 rules that restrict SD. Neither Tomlinson or Sproles get Taylor $ in FA. But those very FA restrictions make a trade all the more likely imo. That doesn't mean they'll trade for a clear cut starter though, perhaps just part of a RBBC they can't find in the draft at the right price.

I don't think they would be restricted.Final Eight Teams

AFC Divisional Playoff San Diego Chargers — 1 unrestricted free agent for $5.5 million* or more in Year One of contract + the same number of Chargers unrestricted free agents who sign with other clubs + any unrestricted free agent for less than $3.7 million* in Year One of contract with limitations on per season increases.

 

[Blackjacks]

I'll disagree with alot of you due to the fact I think SD is going to trade for a big name rb. They are a team readey for a superbowl run, why would you not address a major part of your offense

I see DeAngelo ending up there for Cromartie and perhaps a late pick.

I could also see Choice getting traded there and perhaps Portis if he got cut......maybe.

Chester Taylor would also be a strong possibility if he leaves Minnesota via free agency

I like what you have to say about the trade possibility though it will take a lot of draft choices to go along with Cromartie to end up with DeAngelo. I'd much rather they trade for Lynch who seems to have worn out his welcome in BUF. I just think he's going to be labeled a "bust" there because of expectations when he was drafted and it looks likely he'll never completely own that job by himself. He'd be MUCH cheaper than DeAngelo and I'm hoping SD keeps Cromartie to return kicks/punts now that Sproles will most likely be gone.I highly doubt Chester would be possible because of the final 8 rules that restrict SD. Neither Tomlinson or Sproles get Taylor $ in FA. But those very FA restrictions make a trade all the more likely imo. That doesn't mean they'll trade for a clear cut starter though, perhaps just part of a RBBC they can't find in the draft at the right price.

It seems doubtful their top 2 leading rushers in 2010 are on the roster currently, but I don't think they need to panic to get a RB. The only RB they should pursue in the first round is Spiller via trade imo. There are going to be RBBC guys available in the third/fourth round of the draft.

DeAngelo is in his last year of his contract. I don't think it would take more than Cromartie and a 4th to get him

 

[BoltBacker]

I highly doubt Chester would be possible because of the final 8 rules that restrict SD. Neither Tomlinson or Sproles get Taylor $ in FA. But those very FA restrictions make a trade all the more likely imo. That doesn't mean they'll trade for a clear cut starter though, perhaps just part of a RBBC they can't find in the draft at the right price.

I don't think they would be restricted.Final Eight Teams

AFC Divisional Playoff San Diego Chargers — 1 unrestricted free agent for $5.5 million* or more in Year One of contract + the same number of Chargers unrestricted free agents who sign with other clubs + any unrestricted free agent for less than $3.7 million* in Year One of contract with limitations on per season increases.

That's technically true but I'd hate to see them use the one $5.5m on RB when it's a pass first team and I'm not sure any single RB(outside of a D.Williams) is going to decide the fate of SD come playoff time. I'd much rather spend that on either an OL or DL and go with RBBC or trade future draft picks to move up to acquire Spiller.

 

[BoltBacker]

DeAngelo is in his last year of his contract. I don't think it would take more than Cromartie and a 4th to get him

That's open to a great deal of debate.I'm with you in that it seems like finding starting caliber CB's are much more difficult than finding RB's but there are rumors they were turned down for Choice, the 3rd RB on their depth chart. We're talking about a 25yo corner that's already started 2 1/2 years and has 15 career interceptions. I've also seen scenarios where Cromartie is mentioned as having value of a 3rd round pick. Sounds crazy to me.There also may be things going on behind the scenes that we don't know about and that's the reason he's been shopped. Maybe he's threatening to hold out without a new contract? I haven't heard that... just speculating.

 

[Riffraff]

I highly doubt Chester would be possible because of the final 8 rules that restrict SD. Neither Tomlinson or Sproles get Taylor $ in FA. But those very FA restrictions make a trade all the more likely imo. That doesn't mean they'll trade for a clear cut starter though, perhaps just part of a RBBC they can't find in the draft at the right price.

I don't think they would be restricted.Final Eight Teams

AFC Divisional Playoff San Diego Chargers — 1 unrestricted free agent for $5.5 million* or more in Year One of contract + the same number of Chargers unrestricted free agents who sign with other clubs + any unrestricted free agent for less than $3.7 million* in Year One of contract with limitations on per season increases.

That's technically true but I'd hate to see them use the one $5.5m on RB when it's a pass first team and I'm not sure any single RB(outside of a D.Williams) is going to decide the fate of SD come playoff time. I'd much rather spend that on either an OL or DL and go with RBBC or trade future draft picks to move up to acquire Spiller.

Hopefully LT and Sproles sign quick. Edit: Guess Sproles signing would not matter as a restricted free agent that isn't tendered does not count as an unrestricted free agent.Okay, GM Smith... bring in Julius Peppers for twice the $5.5mil contract, then grab a free agent RB for less than $3.7mil. Not going to happen, but if you re going to spend the coin, may as well get a Pro-Bowler with it.

 

[Spike]

I posted this in the Sproles thread, but maybe it's more appropriate here?

What selections do the Chargers have in this year's draft? I wonder if they're likely, with the depth at RB, to pick a couple of RBs but not until the 2nd/3rd/4th rounds.

SD-homers, does this make any sense?

 

[nightmare]

Chargers spent $14 million on Sproles and LT last year.

They could draft a RB in the 2nd and sign/trade for one or two (FA) RB's

 

[ebcpastor2004]

No Link- this was on ESPN.com Rumor Central...( I know, but since this is just speculation anyway, I kind of like this one)

Bradshaw on Chargers' radar? 3:02PM ET

Ahmad Bradshaw | How might the Giants benefit by trading No. 44 to San Diego?

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If anyone is a suscriber, could you shed some light on a scenario like this. Wild speculation works too.

 

[Polar Dude]

I'll disagree with alot of you due to the fact I think SD is going to trade for a big name rb.

Name the last big name player at any position that AJ has traded for, or even chased in FA.

 

[Boltz Boy]

I'll disagree with alot of you due to the fact I think SD is going to trade for a big name rb.

Name the last big name player at any position that AJ has traded for, or even chased in FA.

Chris Chambers at the trade deadline in 2007. (I know he's not a HUGE name, but he was seen at the time as the best WR that a team was willing to give up.) Not to mention the number of draft day or pre-draft trades AJ has made. He doesn't go the FA route very often, so if they don't make a trade, there's a good chance they don't do anything til draft day. Personally, if they can get DeAngelo for anything close to Cromartie & a 4th, I'd love to see that in a heartbeat. Just seems like Carolina would want more than that.

 

[Polar Dude]

Not to mention the number of draft day or pre-draft trades AJ has made.

To acquire big name players? I must be blanking because I can't remember this occurring.

 

[Boltz Boy]

Not to mention the number of draft day or pre-draft trades AJ has made.

To acquire big name players? I must be blanking because I can't remember this occurring.

I think I need to clarify my statement. I was citing Chris Chambers as AJ making a trade for one of the biggest names available at WR at the time. The second statement should have just said draft day trades (ie: Eli for Philip, and the picks that became Merriman and Kaeding, along with his penchant for trading future picks to move up and get guys like Weddle or *ick* Buster Davis.) Overall, though, I think AJ has shown that he's much more willing to make a trade, rather than go after a big ticket FA.Not to thread hijack, but as many issues as the Chargers running game has, the more immediate need might be NT. Losing Williams in week 1 was a big blow, and I frankly don't know how the team managed to keep plugging retreads in and still be somewhat effective. I think the Jets exploited that deficiency in the playoffs, and Williams is already ancient by NT standards even before the injury. So, I do see a good chance that AJ might focus on the lines early, and wait until the mid rounds to pluck a RB.

 

[Polar Dude]

Not to thread hijack, but as many issues as the Chargers running game has, the more immediate need might be NT. Losing Williams in week 1 was a big blow, and I frankly don't know how the team managed to keep plugging retreads in and still be somewhat effective. I think the Jets exploited that deficiency in the playoffs, and Williams is already ancient by NT standards even before the injury. So, I do see a good chance that AJ might focus on the lines early, and wait until the mid rounds to pluck a RB.

I see many needs more pressing than tailback on this team. Secondary, ILB, DE, OL, and NT all need to be addressed.

 

[bluesclues]

No Link- this was on ESPN.com Rumor Central...( I know, but since this is just speculation anyway, I kind of like this one)

Bradshaw on Chargers' radar? 3:02PM ET

Ahmad Bradshaw | How might the Giants benefit by trading No. 44 to San Diego?

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If anyone is a suscriber, could you shed some light on a scenario like this. Wild speculation works too.

With Jacobs tailing off last year, the Giants can ill afford to lose Bradshaw.I dont see this happening.

 

[TS Garp]

No Link- this was on ESPN.com Rumor Central...( I know, but since this is just speculation anyway, I kind of like this one)

Bradshaw on Chargers' radar? 3:02PM ET

Ahmad Bradshaw | How might the Giants benefit by trading No. 44 to San Diego?

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If anyone is a suscriber, could you shed some light on a scenario like this. Wild speculation works too.

With Jacobs tailing off last year, the Giants can ill afford to lose Bradshaw.I dont see this happening.

Unless they think Danny Ware can fill Bradshaw's shows, with Andre Brown stepping into Ware's role (assuming he's back). Agree that it's still unlikely, but I guess you never know.

 

[elcohiba]

Thomas Jones?

 

[BuckeyeArt]

I highly doubt Chester would be possible because of the final 8 rules that restrict SD. Neither Tomlinson or Sproles get Taylor $ in FA. But those very FA restrictions make a trade all the more likely imo. That doesn't mean they'll trade for a clear cut starter though, perhaps just part of a RBBC they can't find in the draft at the right price.

I don't think they would be restricted.Final Eight Teams

AFC Divisional Playoff San Diego Chargers — 1 unrestricted free agent for $5.5 million* or more in Year One of contract + the same number of Chargers unrestricted free agents who sign with other clubs + any unrestricted free agent for less than $3.7 million* in Year One of contract with limitations on per season increases.

That's technically true but I'd hate to see them use the one $5.5m on RB when it's a pass first team and I'm not sure any single RB(outside of a D.Williams) is going to decide the fate of SD come playoff time. I'd much rather spend that on either an OL or DL and go with RBBC or trade future draft picks to move up to acquire Spiller.

I don't think Chester gets more than 3.7 million.

 

[BoltBacker]

Edit: Guess Sproles signing would not matter as a restricted free agent that isn't tendered does not count as an unrestricted free agent.

I didn't realize that was the case.It'll certainly be interesting to see how much these RB's get offered.

 

[BoltBacker]

I don't think Chester gets more than 3.7 million.

I disagree. As the top FA RB in an uncapped year I think someone will sign him for over that. If Thomas Jones gets released then he'd be the top FA RB and maybe Chester doesn't find a gig for more than $3.7mil but I think it's very possible both could make more.If either can be had for $3.7mil or less than it would be ridiculous for SD to reach for a RB in the first round.We'll see.

 

[finito]

No Link- this was on ESPN.com Rumor Central...( I know, but since this is just speculation anyway, I kind of like this one)

Bradshaw on Chargers' radar? 3:02PM ET

Ahmad Bradshaw | How might the Giants benefit by trading No. 44 to San Diego?

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If anyone is a suscriber, could you shed some light on a scenario like this. Wild speculation works too.

With Jacobs tailing off last year, the Giants can ill afford to lose Bradshaw.I dont see this happening.

Unless they think Danny Ware can fill Bradshaw's shows, with Andre Brown stepping into Ware's role (assuming he's back). Agree that it's still unlikely, but I guess you never know.

Giants are pretty deep at RB, though I think Bradshaw is probably the best RB on the team right now.

 

[belljr]

No Link- this was on ESPN.com Rumor Central...( I know, but since this is just speculation anyway, I kind of like this one)

Bradshaw on Chargers' radar? 3:02PM ET

Ahmad Bradshaw | How might the Giants benefit by trading No. 44 to San Diego?

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If anyone is a suscriber, could you shed some light on a scenario like this. Wild speculation works too.

AFC West blogger Bill Williamson provided a long list of possibilities for the San Diego Chargers as replacements for LaDainian Tomlinson, and one in particular caught our eye: a trade with the New York Giants for Ahmad Bradshaw, likely sending Antonio Cromartie to Big Blue as compensation.Although Williamson calls Bradshaw just "a rotational option," perhaps that's all the Chargers need in their high-octane offense. Bradshaw is admittedly limited in the third-down back responsibilities -- receiving and blocking -- but the Bolts might have Darren Sproles for that task anyways. We'll consider this one a possibility until we hear otherwise.

 

[SpineDoc]

Thomas Jones?

That's what I was thinking.

 

[loose circuits]

Willie Parker and then draft another RB so they have a tandem to work with. Parker 15 carries a game, some weeks a little more or less, rookie will be groomed to be the 1 Back for season 2 and beyond.Just my opinion

Willie Parker is a poor fit for the Chargers offense IMO. The Chargers throw to their RBs a lot, and Parker is not a good receiving back. He also turns 30 in November and last made an impact in the rushing game in 2007.I don't see it.

also, does he really offer anything more than Michael Bennett at this point in their careers?

 

[DA RAIDERS]

I think the team is looking trade right now

Michael Bush may be a guy they're looking at again, although the intra-division rivalry may keep Al Davis from doing such a trade.

 

[cstu]

Thomas Jones?

He would be the best bet out of the FA RB's. Certainly not a glamorous pick, but he still can play and most importantly, block - something a rookie RB is likely to struggle with. He makes too much sense to me over spending a high pick on RB.

 

[zamboni]

I think the team is looking trade right now

Michael Bush may be a guy they're looking at again, although the intra-division rivalry may keep Al Davis from doing such a trade.

(Rotoworld) Michael Bush is "generating interest" in trade talks, according to Mike Lombardi of the National Football Post. Analysis: Bush would be a great fit as a power back in San Diego's system, but Al Davis would probably never move him to an in-division foe.

 

[Tanner9919]

I have a hunch that they work out a deal and bring in Marshawn Lynch Fred Jackson cheap.

fixed. Very good hands, good RB. seemingly a perfect fit fot the SD offense.

 

[BoltBacker]

I don't think Chester gets more than 3.7 million.

I disagree. As the top FA RB in an uncapped year I think someone will sign him for over that. If Thomas Jones gets released then he'd be the top FA RB and maybe Chester doesn't find a gig for more than $3.7mil but I think it's very possible both could make more.If either can be had for $3.7mil or less than it would be ridiculous for SD to reach for a RB in the first round.We'll see.

Chester ended up getting $7mil. Now it looks like SD is willing to pay Sproles $7mil unless they get an offer.

 

[Riffraff]

Small note:

Chargers claimed RB Marcus Mason off waivers from the Redskins.

 

[H.K.]

Bolts sign a back, but still take caution approach

By Kevin Acee, UNION-TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER

Tuesday, March 9, 2010 at 12:02 a.m.

The Chargers are working from the rear to fill their light backfield.

Still mulling exactly how to replace LaDainian Tomlinson and waiting to see what happens with No. 2 back Darren Sproles, the Chargers yesterday claimed Marcus Mason off waivers and will see if he can win the third spot on the depth chart.

Meanwhile, Chargers General Manager A.J. Smith is taking his usual wait-and-see approach to free agency and likely won’t make a move soon.

The Chargers, according to sources, are not interested in any of the current free-agent running backs. That could change, however, after the market bears out what each is worth. But the draft remains the team’s most likely route to finding a starting running back.

Any free-agent back signed could also be as a potential replacement for Sproles, who is a restricted free agent.

Mason, 25, has spent time on the practice squads of the Washington Redskins and Baltimore Ravens and on the rosters of the Redskins and Jets.

He was in nine games for the Redskins last season, gaining 127 yards on 32 carries.

Mason (5-feet-9, 215 pounds) initially joined the Redskins as an undrafted free agent in 2007.

“We’ve followed his progress through his young career,” Smith said.

The Chargers’ familiarity with Mason goes back longer than three years. He played two years for Chargers head coach Norv Turner’s brother, Ron, at Illinois and then played at Youngstown State at the same time as Smith’s son, Kyle.

Link

 

[Black]

Small note:Chargers claimed RB Marcus Mason off waivers from the Redskins.

Doesn't Cecil Lammey love Mason? What's the word on him?

 

[Polar Dude]

Small note:Chargers claimed RB Marcus Mason off waivers from the Redskins.

Very small

 

[Sweet Love]

Small note:Chargers claimed RB Marcus Mason off waivers from the Redskins.

Very small

Honestly, I would cut my left arm off just to be a fly on the wall for a week in the raiders "war room". Seriously, to see a 112 year old man go nuts when Marcus Mason hits the WW would be priceless.