potential offseason cuts and trade bait. . .

[dogfish]

we've had plenty of threads discussing the guys who are slated to become free agents, so i thought i'd start a thread about players who i see potentially getting cut or being put on the trading block during the offseason. . . i know i sometimes tell people it's pointless to speculate about acquiring players who are under contract with other teams (i know a lot of us get tired of the "we should get this guy" threads), but i think it's worth taking a moment to look at guys we have some specific reason to think might become available (BEYOND "he's a good player, i want him on the broncos" :laugh: ). . . . please note, i'm not necessarily saying that i would want us to go after any of these players-- really just tossing some ideas around for the hell of it. . . we know that some "name" players get cut or shopped around for one reason or another every year, and it's interesting to me because i think the broncos are likely to be rather active in free agency if we can free up some cap space, which i believe we will-- not enough to go after the true prize free agents like dwight freeney, but i think we'll free up enough money through cuts, renogotiations and potential retirements to be able to afford a few mid-level players at the least. . .

these aren't in any particular order, i'm really just moving through the divisions. . . we'll start with kelly holcomb-- losman is slowly improving, and if they decide that he's not the answer they're likely to look for a younger player to compete for the job, and they reportedly like craig nall as a backup. . . as i don't think jake plummer will be back, we may be in the market for a veteran backup with starting experience. . . holcomb is comparable to the other potential options like anthony wright-- not starter material, but he's shown he's capable of coming in and winning some games to keep your season on track in case of an injury to your starter, the way charlie batch has done in pitt the past few years. . .

ricky williams-- i'm no longer interested, end of story. . . i see kendall simmons as a potential cap casualty in pitt-- he's another guy i can't see us having any inrterest in. . . i wouldn't call it likely, but i think it's at least possible that cincy decides to cut their loses with chris perry, a talented player who can't seem to stay out off the injury report-- kenny watson has proven very capable of filling perry's role as the third down, change-of-pace back behind the durable rudi johnson. . . a guy i think cincy will cut loose is odell thurman-- not much point discussing him as we won't be in the market for a starting caliber linebacker. . .

a name that has to be mentioned is albert haynesworth, who has a pretty good shot of being cut loose by tennessee. . . i personally would rather not see us go after him-- he had character questions before the stomping incident, and has struggled with his weight and motivation over the years-- but there's no doubt he's a top physical talent who can be disruptive when he's on his game. . . he has to be mentioned because he plays a position where we need help, and is likely to be available-- shanny has shown in the past that he's not afraid to roll the dice on turds, but i think he may have finally learned something from the clarett fiasco. . .

one interesting guy who i have a sneaking suspicion may become available is fred taylor. . . maurice jones-drew may never be capable of handling 350 carries per year, but he's proven to be a tougher runner than people expected, and has been extremely productive. . . furthermore, the jags are very high on greg jones, who was a tailback in college and played very well in limited action carrying the ball last year. . . taylor has had repeated squabbles with management over his contracts, and doesn't see eye to eye with coach jack del rio-- taylor wants to be paid in line with his superstar talent, and the jags have been naturally reluctant to give that kind of money to a guy who seems to get hurt everysingle year at some point or other. . . taylor isn't getting younger, and i think the jags may decide that they're satisfied with a combination of jones and jones-drew. . . taylor could be released to free up cap space, or offered in trade for randy moss. . . if he's available, i don't think he's worth the kind of money he's inevitably going to want, but there's no denying his combination of size and speed would be sick in our backfield. . . another jag who's likely to be available is byron leftwich, but he obviously wouldn't fit here at all, and is young and talented enough to go somewhere and compete for a starting job. . .

another name who has a good chance of hitting the open market is colts DT corey simon. . . simon may not even be healthy enough to play football, but if the doctors clear him he could be worth a flyer if he'd sign a short, incentive-laden contract to get back in the game. . . if he's healthy enough to play he has the size and athleticism to make an impact on the D-line. . . maybe a bit of a longshot, but i can potentially see the colts releasing brandon stokley-- he's very valuable to them, but they have 3 other excellent receiving options, and he doesn't help much on the trainers table. . . besides, they'll need money if they want to keep freeney. . .

i think the chefs are likely to cut sammy knight to free up some cap space, as they like their young safeties pollard and whoever the other kid is-- obviously not of interest to us, as we already have aging, one-dimensional safeties. . . i'd say that either randy moss or jerry porter will be available, possibly both of them-- i wouldn't want either of the underachieving malcontents, and there are other threads going if you want to talk about moss. . . :sick:

[dogfish]

i think the other bum may be available as well-- i hate to even mention his name after the way the board was inundated with it last year, but i honestly think there's a good chance BO will be available again, having broken down another coach and worn out his welcome in another town (jerry jones still loves him, but their fans aren't stupid-- they were booing him the other night). . . too much money, too much drama, and declining skills make an entirely unappealing package. . . . drew bledslow just may find himslef looking for a job as well, but he CLEARLY would be a disaster here. . . :laugh: the other really big name in the AFC east is clinton portis-- he needs to be mentioned, but there's another thread going about him. . . . i think the redfaces would LOVE to cut adam archuleta, but it may be too expensive at this point. . . jon jansen could be a surprise cut in washington-- i also have a suspicion that jon runyan could be a surprise cut in philly. . .

another eagle big name that just might end up on the market, via trade or release, is jevon kearse-- they're paying him a lot, and he still can't escape the injury bug. . . philly brought in darren howard this past offseason, trent cole has really emerged, and they could possibly move second year player chris gocong back to his natural end position. . . injuries have robbed kearse of some of his trademark explosiveness, and with his injury history he won't command the big dollars he used to, but he could still be worth a flyer at the right price. . . i would vastly prefer that we go after some young talent, but he definitely worth mentioning in the context of players who i think could become available. . .

i mentioned a few tackles in the NFC north who could be surprise cuts, but i won't be surprised at ALL if the G-men decide to part ways with injury-prone luke petigout and look for a more reliable left tackle. . .

the speculation is going to continue until the bears actually do trade thomas jones or cedric benson-- i see jones as the more likely option, but that situation has probably been discussed enough in other threads. . . :) with the team needing money to address several free agents on the defensive line, i wouldn't be shocked if the bears cut one of the aging veterans on their line, either rueben brown or fred miller. . . i'm already hearing rumors that fred smoot may get cut in minnesota-- hasn't played up to his contract, and he has character issues. . . i know darrent williams haters will be all over it if he is released, but i personally wouldn't have much interest in the jerk-- overrated, IMO! the vikes may also cut brad johnson loose and bring in a slightly younger journeyman/vet to pair with tarvaris jackson-- of course, he may (and should!) just retire if they let him go. . . i also wonder how much more time the vikes will waste on kenechi udeze. . . i'd say mike williams will be really lucky if he's allowed to steal detroit's money for another year-- if/when he's cut, PLEASE don't start a bunch of threads asking for the bum to be brought here! :laugh: no way to say who might be on the hot seat on the lions' D, but i'm sure some heads will roll. . .

one i'm calling now-- look for deshaun foster to get shopped around by carolina. . . i know they just re-signed him last year, but deangelo williams can do everything foster can (and has value on specal teams), is younger, cheaper, and has fewer injuries and less wear on the tires. . also, i've heard that carolina will look to get a true power back in the offseason, and that doesn't leave room in the backfield for foster. . . not an intersting option in my book-- he's no better or more durable than tatum bell, not worth trading for by any means. . . . another panther who i've heard could get cut is DE mike rucker-- he's had injury problems and declining productivity, and they've got a lot of money wrapped up in that line. . . they need more depth at LB, and may look to free up some space by cutting rucker loose and looking for a mid-round end to pair with the beastly mr. peppers. . . . obviously, the general consensus is that simeon rice is probably done in tampa-- my previous statement that i'd prefer to some younger, healthier D-linemen holds true in the case of rice and rucker if either is available. . .

i wouldn't be shocked if the seahawks release center robbie tobeck. . . with darrell tapp showing some promise this year, bryce fisher could also be a possibility-- they've signed a lot of big contracts recently, and always want to be players in free agency. . . i look for scott linehan to keep turning over his roster in st. louis, but the only name of note i see being released is possibly marshall faulk, if he doesn't just retire (sorry marshall, it's time). . . god only knows who'll get the axe in arizona. . . :laugh:

alright, sorry for the rambling, but i thought with the regular season almost done and 20 teams getting ready for offseason mode (hopefully not us just yet! :rockon: ), it would be fun to try to take a semi-realisitic look, at least IMHO, at who may become available unexpectedly. . . just wild speculation for the fun of it, so don't take it too seriously. . . and mods, please feel free to merge any or all of the random "what if we could get (insert name of player under contract elsewhere)" threads with this one. . .

[Freestyle]

Out of that list there really wasen't very much I liked.... :heh:

I'd all be for bringing Brad Johnson in to help tutor Jay. He'd be great insurance if he came at the right price.

Thomas Jones would be nice as long as we don't have to give up the house for him.

This team is in absolute need aof a Marcus Stroud/ John Henderson clone. We need young DE prospects too, but a monster at DT will help this line immensely.

Honestly with the way our cap situation is, I'm gonna be nervous towards anyone we end up throwing a lot of money at.

[JoRo]

Good posts, honestly from that it don't look like there is much for us to look at. I know some of the F.A's looks appealing but I don't know how much Shanny wants to spend for a top flgith dl.... hopefully either in draft or FA we get at LEAST one hopefully more though.

Remember how two years ago Shanny overloaded on corners? I hope he does that to a lesser extent on DL this year, maybe not the top three picks but hopefully a good few.

[HidEmu]

Good posts, honestly from that it don't look like there is much for us to look at. I know some of the F.A's looks appealing but I don't know how much Shanny wants to spend for a top flgith dl.... hopefully either in draft or FA we get at LEAST one hopefully more though.

Remember how two years ago Shanny overloaded on corners? I hope he does that to a lesser extent on DL this year, maybe not the top three picks but hopefully a good few.

i think we need to draft a real good DL so we can have some stability at the position AND we need to pick up a big FA for next season.

[dogfish]

i agree with you guys that i'd definitely prefer to see us focus on the draft rather than going after free agents or making trades. . . i really just wanted to make a predictions thread as much as anything, and it had to be broncos-related in some way to avoid getting moved to Other Teams, aka "the forum where threads go to die". . . .

however, i'm sure shanny will make some sort of forray into free agency-- he always seems to. . . of course, the only big name players we've added recently have come through trades rather than FA. . . i can't imagine we'll have a ton of money to spend this year either, but there are a few positions that would benefit from some judicious spending. . . for one thing, we'll be wise to add an older backup QB who has had some starting experience at one point or another-- i certainly don't feel comfortable with preston parsons as our only backup (and yes, i am assuming that plummer will be somewhere else next year-- i don't see him taking a big pay cut to stay here). . . also, jay would benefit from having an experienced mentor on the roster. . .

a few other positions where i see a potential need. . . primarily, left tackle. . . as lancane has pointed out several times, shanny and bowlen are going to want their investment in cutler protected, and eric pears just doesn't seem to have the feet of a left tackle. . . if lepsis doesn't return, i'm sure we'll be looking for a replacement in the draft, but i'm NOT so sure that they'll want an unproven rookie protecting the next face of the franchise from day one-- if matt can't play, i suspect we may be in the market for at least a temporary solution at the position, so the discussion of veterans who may be available has some relevance there. . .

also, i think we would be smart to look for a receiver with some experience-- even if rod returns, we can all see that he's not getting any younger. . . i'm confident that brandon marshall will be ready for the #2 spot next year, but it's a little unsettling to see NO veteran depth behind him, unless we keep quincy morgan around (and he hasn't even been able to get on the field as a receiver this year). . . i would prefer to see us go after a younger guy with some upside (dj hackett, shaun macdonald or kevin curtis are the guys i've got an eye on), but if we don't land a player like that it would probably be wise to bring in a proven player for depth, and guys who get cut for injury or underperformance are sometimes the most reasonable options. . . it's possible that we could bring in someone like brandon stokley or bobby engram for a few years without breaking the bank. . .

[WABronco]

ricky williams-- i'm no longer interested, end of story. . . i see kendall simmons as a potential cap casualty in pitt-- he's another guy i can't see us having any inrterest in. . . i wouldn't call it likely, but i think it's at least possible that cincy decides to cut their loses with chris perry, a talented player who can't seem to stay out off the injury report-- kenny watson has proven very capable of filling perry's role as the third down, change-of-pace back behind the durable rudi johnson. . . a guy i think cincy will cut loose is odell thurman-- not much point discussing him as we won't be in the market for a starting caliber linebacker. . .

I guess it's possible, although I bet they'd try and trade Perry given the fact he's still young, relatively un-used, and he's proven he can be effective on a part-time basis.

I think I read some obscure article a while back that said Denver liked Perry as the best back in the draft...over Stephen Jackson (part of the reason why the passed on him).

Anyways, I wouldn't count on them axeing Thurman just yet. The guy they have starting now at MLB is pure filler, Brian Simmons is old, and Ahmad Brooks could probably play either MLB or LOLB. I dunno though...

the speculation is going to continue until the bears actually do trade thomas jones or cedric benson-- i see jones as the more likely option, but that situation has probably been discussed enough in other threads. . . with the team needing money to address several free agents on the defensive line, i wouldn't be shocked if the bears cut one of the aging veterans on their line, either rueben brown or fred miller. . . i'm already hearing rumors that fred smoot may get cut in minnesota-- hasn't played up to his contract, and he has character issues. . . i know darrent williams haters will be all over it if he is released, but i personally wouldn't have much interest in the jerk-- overrated, IMO! the vikes may also cut brad johnson loose and bring in a slightly younger journeyman/vet to pair with tarvaris jackson-- of course, he may (and should!) just retire if they let him go. . . i also wonder how much more time the vikes will waste on kenechi udeze. . . i'd say mike williams will be really lucky if he's allowed to steal detroit's money for another year-- if/when he's cut, PLEASE don't start a bunch of threads asking for the bum to be brought here! no way to say who might be on the hot seat on the lions' D, but i'm sure some heads will roll. . .

Meh, I'm not too crazy about Jones and I don't think Benson is a realistic option.

Fred Smoot is HORRIBLE.

Mike Williams is still somewhat appealing to me as a take-a-flyer type signing. He's huge and he's got adequate speed. He's probably having a rough time with his new coach too...


one i'm calling now-- look for deshaun foster to get shopped around by carolina. . . i know they just re-signed him last year, but deangelo williams can do everything foster can (and has value on specal teams), is younger, cheaper, and has fewer injuries and less wear on the tires. . also, i've heard that carolina will look to get a true power back in the offseason, and that doesn't leave room in the backfield for foster. . . not an intersting option in my book-- he's no better or more durable than tatum bell, not worth trading for by any means. . . . another panther who i've heard could get cut is DE mike rucker-- he's had injury problems and declining productivity, and they've got a lot of money wrapped up in that line. . . they need more depth at LB, and may look to free up some space by cutting rucker loose and looking for a mid-round end to pair with the beastly mr. peppers. . . . obviously, the general consensus is that simeon rice is probably done in tampa-- my previous statement that i'd prefer to some younger, healthier D-linemen holds true in the case of rice and rucker if either is available. . .

Foster is a specimen, but he's just bad. He's EXTREMELY inconsistent AND inefficient...plus he gets injured all the damn time.

Rucker is old and busted, and Rice is old, busted, plus he's a jerk.

i wouldn't be shocked if the seahawks release center robbie tobeck. . . with darrell tapp showing some promise this year, bryce fisher could also be a possibility-- they've signed a lot of big contracts recently, and always want to be players in free agency. . . i look for scott linehan to keep turning over his roster in st. louis, but the only name of note i see being released is possibly marshall faulk, if he doesn't just retire (sorry marshall, it's time). . . god only knows who'll get the axe in arizona.

Tobeck's a FA and he'll probably just leave on his own. I really doubt that SEA will cut any of their ends because they currently only have three guys who they can count on as regular contributors (Joe Tafoya doesn't count). Unless they sign a starter at a cheaper price I don't see it happening.

also, i think we would be smart to look for a receiver with some experience-- even if rod returns, we can all see that he's not getting any younger. . . i'm confident that brandon marshall will be ready for the #2 spot next year, but it's a little unsettling to see NO veteran depth behind him, unless we keep quincy morgan around (and he hasn't even been able to get on the field as a receiver this year). . . i would prefer to see us go after a younger guy with some upside (dj hackett, shaun macdonald or kevin curtis are the guys i've got an eye on), but if we don't land a player like that it would probably be wise to bring in a proven player for depth, and guys who get cut for injury or underperformance are sometimes the most reasonable options. . . it's possible that we could bring in someone like brandon stokley or bobby engram for a few years without breaking the bank. . .

Pass on Kevin Curtis for me. He'll be overvalued IMO by pass-happy teams and I'd rather go cost-efficient and stick with Bmarsh at no. 2. Curtis wouldn't come here to be a no. 3 guy either.

...but I bet Engram would. If Rod leaves he'd be a great short-term pick-up. Hackett is interesting because he's currently out-performing his companions but he's making a fraction of what Jackson, Branch, and Burleson make. DJ could probably get a fair chunk of change as a RFA and Seattle may be hesitant to match it if all he's going to be is their no. 4 guy (and that's if Engram leaves). Unless they clear some space by trading DJack I don't think you can say with any conviction that Hackett is a lock to return as a RFA.

I honestly can't think of a guy I'd rather have as a no. 3 receiver than DJ Hackett. What's cool is that he may see himself as a no. 3/slot receiver as well because he's exponentially better as an inside receiver (IMO) and he said he'd like to be one of the "best third receivers in the league" on a local radio show. So, maybe he'd like to leave SEA and get more of a "fulltime gig" now instead of taking the tender and waiting for a year...

[Ravage!!!]

Great post as always dog. I bet we look for a veteran RT tackle this offseason. We haven't really shown to have any depth there (unless Pears can do it once lepsis is back)....and I don't think we will rely on the draft to fill that role, especially if we go after DL help there.

I think Holcomb would be a GREAT back up QB for us. We definitely need a veteran guy that will never be expected (or wanted) to be the starter. I wanted Jeff Garcia this last offseason (before we drafted Cutler) and you can see just how valuable a player like he can be to a team.

I see us using the draft to fill up the DL and Safety needs. We'll draft a WR, a corner, an OLman, and RB as well.

[dogfish]

Pass on Kevin Curtis for me. He'll be overvalued IMO by pass-happy teams and I'd rather go cost-efficient and stick with Bmarsh at no. 2. Curtis wouldn't come here to be a no. 3 guy either.

we've talked about this before, and i agree that curtis is likely to get a pretty big offer somewhere (most likely right where he's at, i would say)-- you're probably right that someone will want him as a #2, and that we won't want to give him that kind of cash. . . gotta at least throw his name out there, though. . . macdonald has a comparable skill set from what i've seen (maybe not quite as fast), and will be a more reasonable option in terms of price. . . but. . . .

...but I bet Engram would. If Rod leaves he'd be a great short-term pick-up. Hackett is interesting because he's currently out-performing his companions but he's making a fraction of what Jackson, Branch, and Burleson make. DJ could probably get a fair chunk of change as a RFA and Seattle may be hesitant to match it if all he's going to be is their no. 4 guy (and that's if Engram leaves). Unless they clear some space by trading DJack I don't think you can say with any conviction that Hackett is a lock to return as a RFA.

I honestly can't think of a guy I'd rather have as a no. 3 receiver than DJ Hackett. What's cool is that he may see himself as a no. 3/slot receiver as well because he's exponentially better as an inside receiver (IMO) and he said he'd like to be one of the "best third receivers in the league" on a local radio show. So, maybe he'd like to leave SEA and get more of a "fulltime gig" now instead of taking the tender and waiting for a year...


in terms of receivers i think may be available, hackett is actually my first choice, for several reasons. . . i think it's almost a foregone conclusion that somebody from that group of hawks receivers won't be back next year-- they've got a lot of money and resources invested in djax and branch to be their top two options, and they just gave burleson a big contract. . . which i bet they're sick about (i read in PFW that holmgren was pissed about the GM spending that much for him)-- hackett has clearly outperformed burleson this year, but there's no way they can afford to cut burleson, and i think you're right in saying that they'll be hard-pressed to match a solid offer to hackett, no matter how much they'd like to. . . they've given big contracts to jones, hasselbeck, alexander, branch and peterson recently-- the money can only go so far!

i love the idea of picking up hackett because he's an emerging young player who's been buried behind more established vets-- he's probably even better than what we've seen in limited playing time, i think he's ready to break out. . . he's young and still has upside, and fits the profile of what we're looking for perfectly. . . good size/speed ratio, he would offer another target who could stretch the field opposite javon and keep defenses honest-- i think marshall will fill the possesion role nicely with a little more experience, we could use another deep threat. . . he's physical and plays hard, is already versed in the west coast offense, and it would be an easy transition to colorado as he played his college ball here. . . he's absolutely my first choice of the receivers i see being available. . .

however, he may get some nice offers elsewhere, and if we can't land an up-and-coming youngster like him, i think we'd be wise to look at some of the vets who may come a little cheaper at this point in their careers-- engram would be a nice possesion receiver to help make the transition from rod to brandon. . .

[broncsyanks]

i think a lot in the offseason will depend on what our cap situation looks like, riight now it looks great. we cut plummer there is half of his salary against the cap, no longer have the useless courtney brown, cut george foster, restructure rods contract and steven alexanders contracts and we are in a hell of a spot to sign some good free agents. most notably dwight freeney. jared allen is ideal but have to give up to much for him because he is a restricted free agent. then we try and get a huge DT that reqiures double teaming allowing us to have a pass rush. then we get asanti sammuel to play darrents corner and then use darrent in the nickel and dime packages. ouch that sounds awesome.
then the rest of our worries should be getting a RB and a tackle and another safety in the draft.

[Freestyle]

These guys haven't been mentioned yet.

http://www.footballsfuture.com/2007/nfl/freeagentsDL.html

Defensive linemen

Terdell Sands UFA Oakland Raiders
The defensive tackle entered his fifth NFL season without much fanfare. He was stuck behind other players, and hadn’t been thought of as an impact player by most. However, the former Chattanooga player has shined when given the opportunity. One reason that Sands has been effective is his size. Standing 6’7” and weighing 335 pounds, Sands is enormous, and difficult to take out of a play. His height allows him to bat down passes if he cannot get penetration, and he has developed a decent awareness of where the ball is. In non-starter minutes, he’s still just two tackles away from his career season high, and he is earning more and more time each week. The Raider will be well-served to sign him to an extension, but Sands might look elsewhere if Oakland won’t guarantee him more playing time.

Justin Smith, UFA, Bengals
The Bengals 2001 first round pick, Smith has shown improvement over time and become a significant threat to the opposition’s quarterback. Smith has tallied 40.5 career sacks up to this point, and already has 6.5 in the current season, a pace that would make for a career best. Smith has also been a consistent tackler with more than 54 total tackles each season of his career. Smith is a big and quick pass-rusher, and he will command a good deal of attention on the market, and he should make a good deal of money.

also I woulden't mind a look at Coy Wire, Safety Bills.

[dogfish]

These guys haven't been mentioned yet.

http://www.footballsfuture.com/2007/nfl/freeagentsDL.html

Defensive linemen

Terdell Sands UFA Oakland Raiders
The defensive tackle entered his fifth NFL season without much fanfare. He was stuck behind other players, and hadn’t been thought of as an impact player by most. However, the former Chattanooga player has shined when given the opportunity. One reason that Sands has been effective is his size. Standing 6’7” and weighing 335 pounds, Sands is enormous, and difficult to take out of a play. His height allows him to bat down passes if he cannot get penetration, and he has developed a decent awareness of where the ball is. In non-starter minutes, he’s still just two tackles away from his career season high, and he is earning more and more time each week. The Raider will be well-served to sign him to an extension, but Sands might look elsewhere if Oakland won’t guarantee him more playing time.

Justin Smith, UFA, Bengals
The Bengals 2001 first round pick, Smith has shown improvement over time and become a significant threat to the opposition’s quarterback. Smith has tallied 40.5 career sacks up to this point, and already has 6.5 in the current season, a pace that would make for a career best. Smith has also been a consistent tackler with more than 54 total tackles each season of his career. Smith is a big and quick pass-rusher, and he will command a good deal of attention on the market, and he should make a good deal of money.

also I woulden't mind a look at Coy Wire, Safety Bills.


didn't mention 'em in this particular thread because they're free agents, not potential cuts or trade bait. . . . ;)


but sands is right around the top of my free agent wish list-- we need another BIG DT to keep our little LBs clean, and help contain the powerful running games in our division. . . sands fits the bill perfectly, and shouldn't break the bank to sign. . . i've heard that cincy may franchise smith, and even if they don't he's likely to command a pretty big salary-- not that i'd mind having him at all, he'd be a nice addition. . . but right now i have a slight preference for charles grant. . .

[Freestyle]

didn't mention 'em in this particular thread because they're free agents, not potential cuts or trade bait. . . . ;)


but sands is right around the top of my free agent wish list-- we need another BIG DT to keep our little LBs clean, and help contain the powerful running games in our division. . . sands fits the bill perfectly, and shouldn't break the bank to sign. . . i've heard that cincy may franchise smith, and even if they don't he's likely to command a pretty big salary-- not that i'd mind having him at all, he'd be a nice addition. . . but right now i have a slight preference for charles grant. . .
Argh... :doh:. Yeah I'm fighting a cold right now so I just spaced on that :laugh:

I was looking through all the free agent lists on the web, and this is really a rather unimpressive free agent class. Not like it's a complete and total bad thing, we need to excercise some fiscal discipline and get our cap into better shape. Still, I woulden't mind one big FA signing on the line instead of a roll of the dice cheap Brownie FA.

[dogfish]

Argh... :doh:. Yeah I'm fighting a cold right now so I just spaced on that :laugh:

I was looking through all the free agent lists on the web, and this is really a rather unimpressive free agent class. Not like it's a complete and total bad thing, we need to excercise some fiscal discipline and get our cap into better shape. Still, I woulden't mind one big FA signing on the line instead of a roll of the dice cheap Brownie FA.


sorry you're not feelin' good bro. . .


i'd agree that it's not exactly an amazing free agent class this year-- that's one of the reasons i'm interested to see who gets cut. . . one thing that just might end up working in our favor, though. . . unless the colts franchise freeney (which is likely but not a given with the money they've got tied up elsewhere and his performance this year), the top bidders looking for a pass rusher will all be going after him. . . with smith, adalius thomas and grant also available, a few additions like rice, rucker and possibly kearse could actually add up to a pretty strong group of pass rushers being available this year, which is unusual. . .

if that does end up happening, it may create a bit of a buyers market, as this years' draft class also looks to be fairly solid at DE (that's what i've read, anyways). . . pass rushers are always in high demand, but if more of them end up being available than there usually are, maybe somebody slips through the cracks and winds up being willing to accept some type of incemtive laden contract for the chance to play on a good team. . .

[dogfish]

Anyways, I wouldn't count on them axeing Thurman just yet. The guy they have starting now at MLB is pure filler, Brian Simmons is old, and Ahmad Brooks could probably play either MLB or LOLB. I dunno though...





Bengals | Thurman not expected to return to team
Tue, 2 Jan 2007 17:40:04 -0800

The Associated Press reports Cincinnati Bengals LB Odell Thurman is not expected to return to the team in 2007. Thurman was suspended for the 2006 season after violating the league's substance abuse policy. Head coach Marvin Lewis said, "Odell is not a member of this football team. He's on suspension by the NFL. He's got a long road to go. I'm not even going to spend any time talking about Odell. We're talking about our '07 season. He's not part of this football team. We don't need to talk about it."


i don't know if the league will even reinstate him this year (i'm not positive how that works), but from what marv is saying i really think he's done in cincy. . . . and you know somebody will give him another chance-- he's proven he can be an impact player. . . .

[WABronco]

Bengals | Thurman not expected to return to team
Tue, 2 Jan 2007 17:40:04 -0800

The Associated Press reports Cincinnati Bengals LB Odell Thurman is not expected to return to the team in 2007. Thurman was suspended for the 2006 season after violating the league's substance abuse policy. Head coach Marvin Lewis said, "Odell is not a member of this football team. He's on suspension by the NFL. He's got a long road to go. I'm not even going to spend any time talking about Odell. We're talking about our '07 season. He's not part of this football team. We don't need to talk about it."


i don't know if the league will even reinstate him this year (i'm not positive how that works), but from what marv is saying i really think he's done in cincy. . . . and you know somebody will give him another chance-- he's proven he can be an impact player. . . .
sllllllapppppppp

[muse]

We could probably use Foster as trade bait I'd say. He's not been good here but then again he really doesn't fit our OL and would probably do pretty well in a more conventional system. I'd really love to pick up a young, complete DE in free agency rather than the draft (or maybe as well as) because drafting DEs is rather hit or miss.

[iverssson]

Trading seems to not happen very often. Obviously the Broncos have been very involved in the past couple of seasons getting draft picks (from skins) and Javon Walker.

I like the idea of a Kelly Holcomb...we definatly need more than Matt Mauck at QB (Pending Plummers probable departure). Someone brought up Fred Taylor, and he would be an interesting fit. He obviously has gotten over the big injury bug that surrounded him early in his career, however Denvers running problems didn't really happen between the 20's, it was goal line situations. We need a guy that has a nose for the endzone, someone like Marion Barber.

This post had people mentioning WR depth, that seems to always be our achillies heel, we need a guy that can produce. Obviously veteran leadership is preferred, but what about Charles Rogers? Is anyone else surprised that he hasn't caught on with ANYONE? Perhaps he's this generations "Marcus Nash".

Maybe Eric Moulds has something left in the tank?

I also think Denver should think about getting competition for Punter Earnster and getting younger at PK looking to groom a replacement for Jason Elam.

We have seen how critical kickers can be, and we shouldn't ignore this non-glamor position.

[muse]

Hmm. Jason wants to kick until he's 40. As long as he can knock them over and can hit the 50+ ones I'm all for it, the guy's a great kicker.

Ernster will be better next season, mark my words. Almost all punters get better in their second year starting for some reason, I don't know why but that's the general trend amongst them. Hell, Sauerbrun had a <40yd average in his first season I believe (<34yd net too!) and look where he is now. Ernster's also statistically a better kickofferer (add that to the dictionary) than Sauerbrun.

[iverssson]

So Jason is 37 - if he wants to kick until he's forty, then we wont have to address the PK spot this off season. It will be seen if he can. If we run anymore field goal fakes like we did late in the season, or have Elam try to tackle on KR, than no, I don't see him lasting another 3 years.

Competition never hurts, bringing in another punter might just get Earnster to perform better. We played the field position battle very poorly this year, we need a guy to help counter that (in addition with better coverage).

Another guy that was mentioned in a different post is -- Michael Turner the back up to super back LT.

I think he would be in instant competition as the undisputed number 1 back here in Denver.

[muse]

Elam won't be kicking off so no worries there. I'd like a franchise kicker after him though, I don't want us to do what we did with punters after Rouen (who was average in any case).

[dwills#1fan27]

We could probably use Foster as trade bait I'd say. He's not been good here but then again he really doesn't fit our OL and would probably do pretty well in a more conventional system. I'd really love to pick up a young, complete DE in free agency rather than the draft (or maybe as well as) because drafting DEs is rather hit or miss.


i think Foster is a problem and would be good trade bait

but they need another Tackle cuz if they bring Meadows back i am gonna be pissed

[JoRo]

Here are some of my many hopes for FA and RFA.


Hopefully: We get either Sands or Redding, I don't know what the price tag would be for those two, one or the other cant go for that much can they? They play for the two worst teams in football,and one isn't a starter and the other is a moved end....

After reading bout Hackett he sounds like the kinda wideout I wouldn't mind taking in. Granted we keep our offensive staff as is we will most likely be running more an more spread out offenses in coming years to take advantage of Jay's arm and free up our running game (it is a lot easier to clear the box with a 3 or 4 wideout set) DJ would be a perfect fit for that. Who else is going for wideouts that will be ahead of him on the radar? Just curious


Dan Graham, though it isn't as big a need as I thought before Sheff came outta hiding, Alexander is still pathetic. It isn't as big a need if we go, as expected to more 3 and 4 wideout sets though.


Just my thoughts on the subject!

[dogfish]

Word out of Jacksonville is this could be a contentious offseason between RB Fred Taylor and the Jaguars. We’re told Taylor, who is signed through the 2007 season, will ask to be traded if the Jaguars don’t meet his demands for a contract extension worth $5 million per year.

_______________________________________


no way in hell the jags give taylor that much-- and he probably knows it! demanding a trade doesn't guarantee that they'll shop him, but i strongly suspect that they will. . . if they do, it'll be interesting to see what kind of offers they get-- he's extremely talented but has been slowed by nagging injuries, and he's not getting any younger. . . i believe the pats gave a 2nd rounder for corey dillon-- taylor would probably be worth a 3rd to a team in need of a running back given that this doesn't look to be a strong draft class at that position. . .

[dogfish]

Panthers | Rucker is a potential cap casualty
Sun, 7 Jan 2007 09:48:20 -0800

Pat Yasinskas, of the Charlotte Observer, reports Carolina Panthers DE Mike Rucker is a potential salary-cap casualty this offseason. The team could also decide to restructure his contract to lower his salary cap number for the 2007 season.


_____________________________


that's from KFFL, and they reported some other BIG names as potential cap casualties in carolina, including mike minter (unsurprising, he's getting old), dan morgan (very unsurprising, he's a good player but extremely fragile), ken lucas. . . and kris jenkins! :eek: okay, so injuries have slowed jenkins considerably, and he's no longer near the dominant player he was a few years ago. . . but that one still caught me by surprise! of course they won't release ALL of those guys, but it sounds like the panthers are looking at a major overhaul/housecleaning on the defensive side of the ball. . .

[Orange&Bluex2]

Wow! I came on this board to talk about seeing Thomas Jones in a Broncos uniform (huge Bears fan but Broncos are my number two team) but I think Fred Taylor would be even better. Like someone said, the running game is fine between the 20's and as much as I love the guy, TJ can't get the tough yards.

If that's the case, hopefully Fred Taylor is on the way out of Jacksonville. Then again, how likely is it to happen? Who has more to lose if Fred Taylor doesn't play? Obviously not the Jags, so we'll see.

By the way, this is a great message board. Very well put together and there doesn't seem to be the constant whining and bashing that goes on at my home board. Great job!

[jlhawkins9]

What about Deuce Mcallister!!! I would take him over all of the above :rockon:

[WABronco]

Panthers | Rucker is a potential cap casualty
Sun, 7 Jan 2007 09:48:20 -0800

Pat Yasinskas, of the Charlotte Observer, reports Carolina Panthers DE Mike Rucker is a potential salary-cap casualty this offseason. The team could also decide to restructure his contract to lower his salary cap number for the 2007 season.


_____________________________


that's from KFFL, and they reported some other BIG names as potential cap casualties in carolina, including mike minter (unsurprising, he's getting old), dan morgan (very unsurprising, he's a good player but extremely fragile), ken lucas. . . and kris jenkins! :eek: okay, so injuries have slowed jenkins considerably, and he's no longer near the dominant player he was a few years ago. . . but that one still caught me by surprise! of course they won't release ALL of those guys, but it sounds like the panthers are looking at a major overhaul/housecleaning on the defensive side of the ball. . .

Damn I'd go after Lucas in a nanosecond. Although, I'm beginning to think he may be a cancer...Seattle let him go during their little lockerroom clean-out offseason in '05 and if Carolina's already considering letting him go...hmmmm...

[dogfish]

Wow! I came on this board to talk about seeing Thomas Jones in a Broncos uniform (huge Bears fan but Broncos are my number two team) but I think Fred Taylor would be even better. Like someone said, the running game is fine between the 20's and as much as I love the guy, TJ can't get the tough yards.

If that's the case, hopefully Fred Taylor is on the way out of Jacksonville. Then again, how likely is it to happen? Who has more to lose if Fred Taylor doesn't play? Obviously not the Jags, so we'll see.

By the way, this is a great message board. Very well put together and there doesn't seem to be the constant whining and bashing that goes on at my home board. Great job!



welcome to the board!

:beer:

we think it's a quality board-- it has a nice, established membership and some sweet features. . . i don't want to sour you, but in the interest of fair disclosure i have to admit that whining and bashing do happen here on a frequent basis also, although we do our best to put the smackdown on it. . .

as for the subject at hand. . . i'm not so sure the bears will actually want to move jones-- JMO, but it kinda seems to me that jerry angelo is open to wheeling and dealing, but lovie doesn't really seem all that keen on the idea. . . jones isn't a superstar, but he's definitely a solid RB. . . what i really like is that he's one of the more complete backs in the league-- he blocks very well and is an excellent receiver, and has the burst and vision to fit well here. . . in any case, keep us updated if you hear any rumors about the team shopping him around-- my impression has been that they won't move him unless benson convinces them that he's ready to take the starting job, but with a very competent backup in peterson you never know how things will change in the offseason. . . it's been rumored that denver might be interested in trading tackle george foster, and i think that a guy with his size would fit well in chicago's power running scheme. . . reuben brown and fred miller aren't getting any younger. . .

as for taylor-- i would also prefer him to jones under the right circumstances (namely cost). . . i think he's a bit of a long shot to end up in denver, but i really do believe that he's likely to be on a roster other than jacksonville's before next season starts, so he's definitely worth keeping an eye on. . .

[pipes]

Damn I'd go after Lucas in a nanosecond. Although, I'm beginning to think he may be a cancer...Seattle let him go during their little lockerroom clean-out offseason in '05 and if Carolina's already considering letting him go...hmmmm...


Oh my...if Rucker gets cut loose, these boards are gonna light up!!!

[dogfish]

Damn I'd go after Lucas in a nanosecond. Although, I'm beginning to think he may be a cancer...Seattle let him go during their little lockerroom clean-out offseason in '05 and if Carolina's already considering letting him go...hmmmm...


he struggled some this year, but a lot of that can be attributed to dealing with a variety of injuries all season long. . . he's a damn good corner who's still in his prime, and the fact that they'd consider cutting him makes me wonder about him as well. . . i know they added talent with richard marshall in this past draft, but it's tough for me to understand why they'd cut a talented guy like lucas after one injury-marred season. . . maybe they're just sick of having the walking wounded defense, but if they cut lucas on that basis it's a major mistake IMO-- he's not exactly in the same league as jenkins and morgan just yet. . . in any case, it sounds more and more like somebody is definitely getting cut from that D, and the more the merrier as far as i'm concerned. . . the more talented vets are on the market, the greater our chances of hauling somebody in for a bargain price. . .

[Orange&Bluex2]

welcome to the board!

:beer:

we think it's a quality board-- it has a nice, established membership and some sweet features. . . i don't want to sour you, but in the interest of fair disclosure i have to admit that whining and bashing do happen here on a frequent basis also, although we do our best to put the smackdown on it. . .

as for the subject at hand. . . i'm not so sure the bears will actually want to move jones-- JMO, but it kinda seems to me that jerry angelo is open to wheeling and dealing, but lovie doesn't really seem all that keen on the idea. . . jones isn't a superstar, but he's definitely a solid RB. . . what i really like is that he's one of the more complete backs in the league-- he blocks very well and is an excellent receiver, and has the burst and vision to fit well here. . . in any case, keep us updated if you hear any rumors about the team shopping him around-- my impression has been that they won't move him unless benson convinces them that he's ready to take the starting job, but with a very competent backup in peterson you never know how things will change in the offseason. . . it's been rumored that denver might be interested in trading tackle george foster, and i think that a guy with his size would fit well in chicago's power running scheme. . . reuben brown and fred miller aren't getting any younger. . .

as for taylor-- i would also prefer him to jones under the right circumstances (namely cost). . . i think he's a bit of a long shot to end up in denver, but i really do believe that he's likely to be on a roster other than jacksonville's before next season starts, so he's definitely worth keeping an eye on. . .

I doubt TJ leaves next year, either. I was reading an interview with him and he said that he's really sore on Monday mornings and takes a loooooong time to get out of bed. Even though he hasn't taken much of a pounding his entire career, he's still 28 years old. This is his first season that he hasn't been injured so that could be it. Still, I wonder if that will help keep him in Chicago; he won't start for another team and he still gets a lot of carries with the Bears. Then again, Rosenhaus is his agent so who knows?

[HORSEPOWER 56]

I'd imagine at least one of the Seattle WRs is on his way out. Hackett showed up bigtime this year and Branch just got there so he's safe. Just when everyone thought D-Jack was on his way out he made a strong point to stay with some good play this year. Engram seems to be Hasselbeck's safety valve but he could be the guy to go.

My money is on Nate Burleson, however. He really hasn't done anything to merit the money they gave him and he's been demoted all the way down to PR/KR (which he isn't very good at either). I see him being cut this offseason.

One of these guys has got to go, the Hawks just don't have the cash to keep all of them nor do they run enough 4-5 WR sets to utilize them all.

[WABronco]

I'd imagine at least one of the Seattle WRs is on his way out. Hackett showed up bigtime this year and Branch just got there so he's safe. Just when everyone thought D-Jack was on his way out he made a strong point to stay with some good play this year. Engram seems to be Hasselbeck's safety valve but he could be the guy to go.

My money is on Nate Burleson, however. He really hasn't done anything to merit the money they gave him and he's been demoted all the way down to PR/KR (which he isn't very good at either). I see him being cut this offseason.

One of these guys has got to go, the Hawks just don't have the cash to keep all of them nor do they run enough 4-5 WR sets to utilize them all.

If they need to free money, DJack's gone.

But, if they need to just create some room, they'll probably just let Engram go. Holmgren's WCO is quite complex, and neither Branch or Burleson have caught on just yet. Burleson's been a great returner...I don't know what you've seen.

[dogfish]

another name who has a good chance of hitting the open market is colts DT corey simon. . . simon may not even be healthy enough to play football, but if the doctors clear him he could be worth a flyer if he'd sign a short, incentive-laden contract to get back in the game. . . if he's healthy enough to play he has the size and athleticism to make an impact on the D-line. . .


update-- i just read this in PFW's "whispers" section a few minutes ago:


If the Colts know what they’re going to do with DT Corey Simon, who many believe has worn out his welcome after a mysterious non-football injury turned him into a nonfactor this season, they’re doing a great job of keeping it under wraps. Team sources tell us the subject of Simon remains very much taboo at Colts headquarters.


again, i'm not advocating that the broncos go out and invest a bunch of money into older players who have had injury problems (although simon's injury wasn't football-related)-- i just think he's a player who's worth mentioning. . . almost every team brings in at least a few veteran FAs pretty much every year, and i'm sure denver will sign a few this year just like always. . . of course you hope to get younger players who still have some upside, but they also tend to cost the most. . . sometimes a player like simon, who missed all of this year, can be available for a reasonable price-- if that's the case he is certainly worth a look. . .

he was an impact player all but his last year in philly, an active lineman who penetrated and disrupted against the running game, and collapsed the pocket on a consistent basis in pass rush situations. . . he played at a heavier weight in indy, and made an immediate impact on their run defense. . . given the amount of help we need on the D-line, he's the kind of balanced veteran DL i wouldn't mind seeing us take a chance on-- and indy's acquisition of booger macfarland and the resurgence of their run defense in the playoffs make his release all the more likely. . .

[Hawgdriver]

...but I bet Engram would. If Rod leaves he'd be a great short-term pick-up. Hackett is interesting because he's currently out-performing his companions but he's making a fraction of what Jackson, Branch, and Burleson make. DJ could probably get a fair chunk of change as a RFA and Seattle may be hesitant to match it if all he's going to be is their no. 4 guy (and that's if Engram leaves). Unless they clear some space by trading DJack I don't think you can say with any conviction that Hackett is a lock to return as a RFA.

I honestly can't think of a guy I'd rather have as a no. 3 receiver than DJ Hackett. What's cool is that he may see himself as a no. 3/slot receiver as well because he's exponentially better as an inside receiver (IMO) and he said he'd like to be one of the "best third receivers in the league" on a local radio show. So, maybe he'd like to leave SEA and get more of a "fulltime gig" now instead of taking the tender and waiting for a year...

That would be a shame if the Seahawks released DJ. For such a promising cadre of receivers, it's just such a mess. I think that saying about too many chefs spoils the soup is appropriate. The Hawks need to quit playing musical chairs with their wideouts and build some chemistry.

But if they did release DJ, I would love to see him in blue and orange!

[HORSEPOWER 56]

If they need to free money, DJack's gone.

But, if they need to just create some room, they'll probably just let Engram go. Holmgren's WCO is quite complex, and neither Branch or Burleson have caught on just yet. Burleson's been a great returner...I don't know what you've seen.


I don't get many 'Hawks games out here but in most of the games I saw, he was a non-factor and he even muffed a punt or two. I'm definitely no expert on the Seahawks, though.

[dogfish]

I don't get many 'Hawks games out here but in most of the games I saw, he was a non-factor and he even muffed a punt or two. I'm definitely no expert on the Seahawks, though.


i certainly don't watch the hawks as regularly as WA, but i've seen him have some very nice returns. . . . he averaged 24.7 on kick returns and 9.5 on punt returns with one TD-- decent numbers. . .

in any case, i just don't see how they can afford to cut him-- if production was the only determining factor i think he'd be the obvious choice, but you have to consider the financial aspect as well. . . they just signed him to a foolishly large $49 million contract (yea, you really "showed" minnesota :rolleyes: )-- of course part of that is backloaded money he was never going to see anyways, but the cap hit for releasing him after only one year would have to be pretty significant. . . DJax has a good-sized contract and they just signed branch for a good chunk-- if they cut burleson they take that hit, and if they sign hackett to a long-term deal (i believe he's a restricted free agent hawg), that is an AWFUL lot of money tied up in their receiving corps. . . if they cut anyone i would think engram would be the most likely, and i doubt they'll give hackett more than a tender offer (if so, we'll have to se which one before we really know whether he's a feasible option or not)-- but i think they're stuck with burleson for at least another year or two. . .

[WABronco]

i certainly don't watch the hawks as regularly as WA, but i've seen him have some very nice returns. . . . he averaged 24.7 on kick returns and 9.5 on punt returns with one TD-- decent numbers. . .

in any case, i just don't see how they can afford to cut him-- if production was the only determining factor i think he'd be the obvious choice, but you have to consider the financial aspect as well. . . they just signed him to a foolishly large $49 million contract (yea, you really "showed" minnesota :rolleyes: )-- of course part of that is backloaded money he was never going to see anyways, but the cap hit for releasing him after only one year would have to be pretty significant. . . DJax has a good-sized contract and they just signed branch for a good chunk-- if they cut burleson they take that hit, and if they sign hackett to a long-term deal (i believe he's a restricted free agent hawg), that is an AWFUL lot of money tied up in their receiving corps. . . if they cut anyone i would think engram would be the most likely, and i doubt they'll give hackett more than a tender offer (if so, we'll have to se which one before we really know whether he's a feasible option or not)-- but i think they're stuck with burleson for at least another year or two. . .

Yea it's really a 4 year, ~14 mil deal. The only reports I've seen involving Burleson say that he's part of their future plans.

He really is a great fit for that offense...he just needs to get a better grasp.

...and now that they have a returner that's actually worth a damn (for the first time in many, many years), it's that much easier to stomach his first year struggles.

[pipes]

Yea it's really a 4 year, ~14 mil deal. The only reports I've seen involving Burleson say that he's part of their future plans.

He really is a great fit for that offense...he just needs to get a better grasp.

...and now that they have a returner that's actually worth a damn (for the first time in many, many years), it's that much easier to stomach his first year struggles.




Why? Does he drop a lot of passes? :D

[dogfish]

Vikings | Smoot wants a starting job, even if it means leaving team
Sat, 20 Jan 2007 11:11:02 -0800

Sean Jensen, of the Pioneer Press, reports Minnesota Vikings CB Fred Smoot said he is open to returning to the Minnesota Vikings in 2007, but that a starting job is mandatory. Smoot said he is a "third corner to nobody," and said he would want to move on if the Vikings plan on starting CBs Antoine Winfield and Cedric Griffin. Smoot added, "There ain't no room for Fred Smoot to be on the bench. I'm prepared to be a third corner at the end of my career, and we're not even close to that. That ain't what I'm paid to do. I'm one of the highest-paid corners in the NFL. Who wants to pay someone that much (to be a third cornerback)?" Smoot's base salary for 2007 is $2.7 million and he is due a $2 million roster bonus in March. The team would save $400,000 in salary cap space if he is released before the bonus is due.

__________________________________________________ ______________


more evidence that smoot may be on his way out of minnesota. . . not that he personally has much control over the situation, but he severely underperformed this year for the money they're paying him, and he isn't anything resembling the character guys that childress and wylf claim to want. . . plus, cedric griffin is a bigger, more physical corner who fits better with the cover-2 base defense they want to run. . . if smoot makes enough noise, i have a feeling they'll be more than willing to oblige him with a trade or his outright release. . .


disclaimer-- i have NO desire to see the broncos even look at this guy! he's an overrated ******bag who'll inevitably get way overpaid because he's a fairly big name. . . i'm only updating this thread because he's someone i'd mentioned, and this forum is for all of free agency and offseason moves, not just those relating specifically to the broncos. . . .

[WABronco]

Why? Does he drop a lot of passes? :D
Ahahahaaaaaaaaaaa...SHUT UP

[pipes]

Ahahahaaaaaaaaaaa...SHUT UP


You know you thought it was funny!

[str8jacket]

Guys, personally I'm all for bringing in D.J. Hackett (Unless hes been re-signed already) He would be a nice addition to our WR Corps

Bring in Justin Smith/Kearney on our D-Line (possibly both? :eek: ) and that basically saves us a first round pick on a D-Lineman and basically gives us the thumbs up to snag Marshawn Lynch.

Thoughts? Who wouldnt mind having Hackett here at 3rd WR? (I somewhat know WA's stance on all of this)

[Broncosinindy]

From everything i am hearing DT is not a strong spot in this draft..so i would go with a guy like sands.. i would hope he can preformabove average.. and be a plug in player until either we can trade or aquire a TOPDT talent.. everything i am hearing from the senoir bowl is that the DL is getting worked by the o lineman .. so either there is more depth there then initially thought or some or alot of these guys could flop..

i wouldnt mind haveing rice/kearse and sands at DT...

Thomas Jones is a guy i would like to have over fred taylor he misses alot of time even over thomas who has had a few injuries..i dont see any wideouts there that i dont think any of the guys we have right now couldnt match production..;. especially 3rd wideout and if rod comes back i think he would fit that role great...or drafta guy late in the draft with good hands and runs great routes. i dont think speed is a burning need


what it comes down to me is LINE O/D they play a bigggggg role.. and its importatn to have a superior line...

i am fairly comforted that if we can get more heat on the qb that foxworth will shine..

i wouldnt mind a guy at safety that can play great pass defense...


i like Kyle Johnson as a pass reciever but we need a Full back that dominates agasint the run\\

basically i just want to see our team get some credible guys or decent backups that can step up if we lose a starter

[Broncosinindy]

Guys, personally I'm all for bringing in D.J. Hackett (Unless hes been re-signed already) He would be a nice addition to our WR Corps

Bring in Justin Smith/Kearney on our D-Line (possibly both? :eek: ) and that basically saves us a first round pick on a D-Lineman and basically gives us the thumbs up to snag Marshawn Lynch.

Thoughts? Who wouldnt mind having Hackett here at 3rd WR? (I somewhat know WA's stance on all of this)
i would love to have him BUT .. he would most likely want to get paid a good chunk of change.. and well were short on dough with other gaping needs ... it would take money away from !?possibly?! a top tier FA and a serviceable plug in

[hardcorebronco]

I like Hackett alot, and i would like to see him as a Bronco.... But i almost have the feeling that bringing him in would clutter our recieving corps like Seatle! Think about it.....
Walker - obviously #1
Smith | Marshall - 2nd and 3rd depending on camp and Preseason.
________________________
Hixon - Injured all year - 2nd year player 3rd round pick.
Kircus - Good at some times but a bit unpredictable.


If we went and got Hackett, where would he go? above Hixon and Kircus, obviously, which in that case slows the development of those guys seeing action. Remember that Hixon was highly looked at by the broncos, they feel this kid can be good. But Hackett, for the cost we would pay would be competeing for a role position, too expensive for punt/kick returns, and probly wouldnt outdo Marshall. So his chances of playing would be to beat ole Rod out of a position. I dont think Rod will retire this year, and he will be a steady reliable third reciever i think next year. It isnt like the third reciever even sees a lot of throws in this system... Having 4 quality recievers would be a lot of money at this point in time to tie up what we have and include hackett. I hate to say it as much as i like him.

Also look at the more pressing needs around. Young, physical safety. DT. DE. RB. OT. Finding good quality at those spots will be no easy task in the FA and Draft. I cant see us buying in Hackett as a luxery item, also take into consideration, that Seatle will pay a good size to keep him and if someone is to outbid them it most likely will be a team with more cap room than us!

Well thats the way i see it, feel free to chime in.

[dogfish]

Redskins | Team will likely ask Jansen to restructure his contract
Tue, 30 Jan 2007 22:06:49 -0800

Jason La Canfora, of the Washington Post, reports the Washington Redskins will likely ask OT Jon Jansen to restructure his contract, according to sources.


__________________________________________________ _______


probably shoulda kept your mouth shut, jon. . . . we'll see, but i won't be surprised at all if they ask for a major restructure and he refuses, opening the door for him to be let go. . .

[Alps2315]

the thing that we need to do is the beef up our defensive line. if we can do that then they can stop the run or at least take up the blockers so that we can let the LBs roam and use their abilities. also, look for us to start leaving champ on his own more often and giving saftey help over the top to foxworth. this will help also b/c the QB won't want to throw at champ and the other WR will be double covered. gives the DL more time to get to the QB. I would really like us to sign jared allen from kc. they just spent a lot of money to re-sign tony g and might not have enough cap room to sign him. freeney will definitely not hit the market and even if he does, don't have the money to sign him. i would also like to see us move dj back to the weak side b/c he is a natural weak side LB and is out of position all the time on the strong side. idk if ian could step over and take that over but we shall see.

[Alps2315]

if we are seriously considering trading for a RB, the RB that we should trade for is Clinton Portis. he was a stud when he was in denver and would do it again. everyone who knows anything about football knows that daniel snyder is an idiot and doesn't care about draft picks, he wants players. it would be hilarious if we got portis plus, say a second round pick, for tatum and plummer and one of our third rounders (the later one). i heard a rumor that snyder doesn't have a high price tag on portis b/c he is "injury prone". the kind of shoulder surgery that he had, i had myself and i was back in about 4 months, better than i was before the surgery. we should jump on that big time.

[socalorado1]

QUOTE
if we are seriously considering trading for a RB, the RB that we should trade for is Clinton Portis. he was a stud when he was in denver and would do it again. everyone who knows anything about football knows that daniel snyder is an idiot and doesn't care about draft picks, he wants players. it would be hilarious if we got portis plus, say a second round pick, for tatum and plummer and one of our third rounders (the later one). i heard a rumor that snyder doesn't have a high price tag on portis b/c he is "injury prone". the kind of shoulder surgery that he had, i had myself and i was back in about 4 months, better than i was before the surgery. we should jump on that big time.


SIGH....................... right................trade for Tortis..... good call......................... another beat up, injury plauge who will sit at the end of the bench while the offense trys to stay on the field without a legit RB. He had his chance, and wanted the Bling, well he got it!

[dogfish]

Colts | Simon unlikely to return
Tue, 6 Feb 2007 06:52:20 -0800

Mike Chappell, of the Indianapolis Star, reports Indianapolis Colts DT Corey Simon is unlikely to return with the team next season. Simon missed the entire season with a knee injury and an undisclosed illness.



Colts | Stokley could be released in offseason
Tue, 6 Feb 2007 06:49:35 -0800

Mike Chappell, of the Indianapolis Star, reports the Indianapolis Colts could release WR Brandon Stokley in the offseason. Stokley is scheduled to receive a $500,000 roster bonus in March and a $2.1 million base salary.

[dogfish]

Bills | Holcomb will likely get cut
Sun, 11 Feb 2007 11:12:29 -0800

John Clayton, of ESPN.com, reports Buffalo Bills QB Kelly Holcomb will likely get cut this offseason.

__________________________________________________ ____________


as i said in the first post of this thread, i think holcombe would be a nice option for a veteran backup QB. . . .

[dogfish]

i mentioned a few tackles in the NFC north who could be surprise cuts, but i won't be surprised at ALL if the G-men decide to part ways with injury-prone luke petigout and look for a more reliable left tackle. . .


PFT is reporting that the giants have cut petigout (and another name that'll surprise some people :O, but i'll leave that for another thread). . . . i'll keep an eye out for confirmation, but they're usually pretty accurate. . . . assuming it's true, this doesn't surprise me one bit. . . it also has some potential to affect the broncos, as the giants draft one spot ahead of us in the 1st round-- they may now take a long look at levi brown if he's still on the board (the pick i penciled in for them in my mock draft). . . .

[pipes]

PFT is reporting that the giants have cut petigout (and another name that'll surprise some people :O, but i'll leave that for another thread). . . . i'll keep an eye out for confirmation, but they're usually pretty accurate. . . . assuming it's true, this doesn't surprise me one bit. . . it also has some potential to affect the broncos, as the giants draft one spot ahead of us in the 1st round-- they may now take a long look at levi brown if he's still on the board (the pick i penciled in for them in my mock draft). . . .

Oh no...it isn't Jesse Palmer, is it? :doh: :sad:

Oh wait, never mind...happened awhile back.

[dogfish]

Oh no...it isn't Jesse Palmer, is it? :doh: :sad:

Oh wait, never mind...happened awhile back.


haven't you heard? it's sheli manning. . . . :P



nah, it's actually lavarr arrington-- i'm surprised no one's posted it yet. . . .


oh, and KFFL has confirmed these cuts. . . .


Giants | Petitgout released
Mon, 12 Feb 2007 14:22:03 -0800

Michael Eisen, of Giants.com, reports the New York Giants have released OT Luke Petitgout.

[str8jacket]

haven't you heard? it's sheli manning. . . . :P



nah, it's actually lavarr arrington-- i'm surprised no one's posted it yet. . . .


oh, and KFFL has confirmed these cuts. . . .


Giants | Petitgout released
Mon, 12 Feb 2007 14:22:03 -0800

Michael Eisen, of Giants.com, reports the New York Giants have released OT Luke Petitgout.
http://forums.denverbroncos.com/showthread.php?t=85721


:D

[dogfish]

one i'm calling now-- look for deshaun foster to get shopped around by carolina. . . i know they just re-signed him last year, but deangelo williams can do everything foster can (and has value on specal teams), is younger, cheaper, and has fewer injuries and less wear on the tires. . also, i've heard that carolina will look to get a true power back in the offseason, and that doesn't leave room in the backfield for foster. . . not an intersting option in my book-- he's no better or more durable than tatum bell, not worth trading for by any means. . . . another panther who i've heard could get cut is DE mike rucker-- he's had injury problems and declining productivity, and they've got a lot of money wrapped up in that line. . . they need more depth at LB, and may look to free up some space by cutting rucker loose and looking for a mid-round end to pair with the beastly mr. peppers. . . .


posted today on KFFL:


Panthers | Team clears $3.3 million by cutting Foster
Wed, 14 Feb 2007 20:49:24 -0800

Pat Yasinskas, of the Charlotte Observer, reports the Carolina Panthers can clear $3.3 million from their salary cap if they cut RB DeShaun Foster.


Panthers | Team clears $4.4 million by cutting Rucker
Wed, 14 Feb 2007 20:43:39 -0800

Pat Yasinskas, of the Charlotte Observer, reports the Carolina Panthers can clear $4.4 million from their salary cap if they cut DE Mike Rucker.



obviously, the titles are a bit misleading-- they haven't cut these players yet, yasinskas is merely reporting how much cap space the franchise would save if it DID cut these particular players. . . however, i tend to believe that it's a "where there's smoke, there's fire" kind of situation. . . yasinskas seems to have a pipeline to panthers headquarters. . . i still think they may shop foster around for trades before cutting him, but either way i fully expecct both players to be on rosters other than carolina's when next season starts. . . .

[WABronco]

Foster is freaking horrible. He looked like he might be something at UCLA, but he's fallen completely on his face...

He'll always have that athletic appeal though...

[dogfish]

Foster is freaking horrible. He looked like he might be something at UCLA, but he's fallen completely on his face...

He'll always have that athletic appeal though...



yea, he's got quickness and solid hands-- i honestly think he would be a halfway decent back if he could stay healthy for more than five minutes, but it doesn't look like that'll ever happen. . . still, you know someone will take a chance on him if he hits the open market-- he could be a decent fit for a team like the giants if they decide to take a complementary back and fill some of their other needs in the 1st instead of targeting lynch. . . that's the main reason i'm following what happens with some of these guys in FA so closely-- i may not want them for denver, but where they go can potentially have a big impact on our draft. . . . the more DLs on the market, the better the chance somebody decent fits into our price range. . . and the more RB options teams like the giants and packers pick up, the happier i'll be. . .

[dogfish]

here's a guy who can apparently be removed from speculation. . . .


Jaguars | Leftwich named starter
Thu, 22 Feb 2007 15:56:44 -0800

Len Pasquarelli, of ESPN.com, reports Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio has named QB Byron Leftwich the team's starting quarterback for the 2007 season. "There isn't going to be any kind of open competition in training camp. Byron will go to camp No. 1 and we expect him to be the starter. As an organization, we've evaluated it from every angle and we feel that it's the best thing for us," Del Rio said.


of course, tis raises the question of whether the jags will consider offers for garrard or not. . . it's certainly not inconceivable that they'll retain both, but i'm a bit surprised-- i thought that with del rio sitting on one of the league's hottest seats, they'd look to bring in some competition at QB at the very least. . . .

[Lorcust]

here's a guy who can apparently be removed from speculation. . . .


Jaguars | Leftwich named starter
Thu, 22 Feb 2007 15:56:44 -0800

Len Pasquarelli, of ESPN.com, reports Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio has named QB Byron Leftwich the team's starting quarterback for the 2007 season. "There isn't going to be any kind of open competition in training camp. Byron will go to camp No. 1 and we expect him to be the starter. As an organization, we've evaluated it from every angle and we feel that it's the best thing for us," Del Rio said.


of course, tis raises the question of whether the jags will consider offers for garrard or not. . . it's certainly not inconceivable that they'll retain both, but i'm a bit surprised-- i thought that with del rio sitting on one of the league's hottest seats, they'd look to bring in some competition at QB at the very least. . . .

Jacksonville, and much of the rest of the NFL has considered Garrard a good back-up when called to come off the bench, but not much more.

His value and cost is much more lenient to Jacksonville than anywhere else in the league, so I'm guessing he'll stay there.

[dogfish]

Jacksonville, and much of the rest of the NFL has considered Garrard a good back-up when called to come off the bench, but not much more.

His value and cost is much more lenient to Jacksonville than anywhere else in the league, so I'm guessing he'll stay there.


i agree that garrard is a good backup-- hell, i still think fat albert can be a pretty good starter in this league. . . he's really never had any solid receivers to work with besides jimmy smith. . . reggie williams is mostly a bust, wilford is a solid possession receiver but not much more, and matt jones has shown much potential but no consistency. . . i think they're a team that needs badly to bring in a veteran receiver who can help right away rather than be developed for the future. . .

if del rio's situation weren't so precarious i'd be less surprised if they chose to go with leftwich and garrard again-- i just felt that in what's likely to be his last year in JAX if they don't take some strides, he'd want to bring in another viable option to sompete at QB. . . .

[Lorcust]

i agree that garrard is a good backup-- hell, i still think fat albert can be a pretty good starter in this league. . . he's really never had any solid receivers to work with besides jimmy smith. . . reggie williams is mostly a bust, wilford is a solid possession receiver but not much more, and matt jones has shown much potential but no consistency. . . i think they're a team that needs badly to bring in a veteran receiver who can help right away rather than be developed for the future. . .

if del rio's situation weren't so precarious i'd be less surprised if they chose to go with leftwich and garrard again-- i just felt that in what's likely to be his last year in JAX if they don't take some strides, he'd want to bring in another viable option to sompete at QB. . . .

He also may want the team behind one focused leader.

Bringing in another possible QB candidate would show a lack of confidence in his QB, and that lack of confidence might be transmitted to the team itself, which looked very inconsistant and lost out on the field (if it wasn't home) anyway.

Jack Del Rio wants this team, and its players behind him, IMO.

He'll want to build the offense to suit Leftwich, IMO, now that he has made his clear choice on the QB (barring injury).

Expect a veteran receiver like Drew Bennett (maybe Darrell Jackson if he gets released/traded from Seattle).

Seattle could use some help at guard, and the Jaguars, as I understand, are deep at O-line.

A trade could be in the works.

Wilford is the only reliable option, but is limited as you say. He is a restricted free agent... correct? I think so. And reportedly he and Del Rio do not get along so well, so he might get some suitors and slip away.

There are options they do have, there is always Randy Moss as well.

Either way, I expect the Jags to tailor the offense to the Byron's Strengths, and address WR, CB, and safety in the draft.

[BroncoSexyDaddy]

i agree that garrard is a good backup-- hell, i still think fat albert can be a pretty good starter in this league. . . he's really never had any solid receivers to work with besides jimmy smith. . . reggie williams is mostly a bust, wilford is a solid possession receiver but not much more, and matt jones has shown much potential but no consistency. . . i think they're a team that needs badly to bring in a veteran receiver who can help right away rather than be developed for the future. . .

if del rio's situation weren't so precarious i'd be less surprised if they chose to go with leftwich and garrard again-- i just felt that in what's likely to be his last year in JAX if they don't take some strides, he'd want to bring in another viable option to sompete at QB. . . .The Raiders could sign him and use their #1 pick on other needs like OL help.I think he would be a good get in Oakland

[Lorcust]

The Raiders could sign him and use their #1 pick on other needs like OL help.I think he would be a good get in Oakland

That is beyond what can be expected of typical Raider FO stupidity.

They could easily use a first overall on Calvin Johnson, and then use their first pick in the second round on a franchise QB such as Drew Stanton or Kevin Kolb (if he has a verrry good combine), or trade back to get better value for him, and more picks to help the offense of course.

[BroncoSexyDaddy]

That is beyond what can be expected of typical Raider FO stupidity.

They could easily use a first overall on Calvin Johnson, and then use their first pick in the second round on a franchise QB such as Drew Stanton or Kevin Kolb (if he has a verrry good combine), or trade back to get better value for him, and more picks to help the offense of course.Thats a very true fact Locust :thumb: ,I just think it will be a mistake to take the QB from LSU as your first pick,Trent Green might be available too.Raider stupidity is a good one :laugh:

[dogfish]

maybe a bit of a longshot, but i can potentially see the colts releasing brandon stokley-- he's very valuable to them, but they have 3 other excellent receiving options, and he doesn't help much on the trainers table. . . besides, they'll need money if they want to keep freeney. . .





lo and behold, looky here:


Colts | Stokley will be released
Wed, 28 Feb 2007 17:01:34 -0800

The NFL Network reports the Indianapolis Colts will release WR Brandon Stokley.



he'll most likely be too rich for our blood, but it does help to have another quality slot receiver on the market if we decide to go after one. . . .

[WhoDeyBengals]

The Bengals released veteran linebacker Brian Simmons today.

The move frees up approximately $2.7 million in cap space for Cincinnati.

Simmons has played 10 NFL seasons, all in Cincinnati. He was scheduled to make $3.3 million in the 2007 season.

The move makes Landon Johnson the most experienced linebacker on the Bengals, with 3 years of playing experience. If the Bengals played a game today, the starters would probably be Johnson, Ahmad Brooks, and Caleb Miller.

Simmons struggled with injuries in the 2006 season.

Good luck, Brian. I'll miss you. :salute:

[dogfish]

Vikings | Smoot cut
Thu, 1 Mar 2007 14:40:20 -0800

ESPNews reports the Minnesota Vikings have cut CB Fred Smoot.



Cowboys | Bledsoe Released
Thu, 1 Mar 2007 14:10:26 -0800

ESPNews reports the Dallas Cowboys have released QB Drew Bledsoe.