Saturday Morning Raisin Bran: Raisin' Arizona

[Mitch]

Here are moves (and the rationale behind them) that could get the Cardinals back to the top of the NFC West:

1. Sign QB Donovan McNabb (after he is released by the Redskins). McNabb has recently been training with Fitz and the Cardinal crew. Fitz will make a pitch for him to Whiz and the front office. McNabb still has one of the great arms in the game---and while Cardinal reporters have repeatedly declared that the "Cardinals have no interest in Donovan McNabb"---the reporters had little to no idea the coaches and front office were going to let Matt Leinart go last pre-season. In other words, the Cardinals do not share their personnel discussions with the media.

So then, why didn't the Cardinals express interest in McNabb last year? In my opinion, the front office was insisting that Matt Leinart be given the opportunity to seize the job---a decision Whiz was dubious on, but was willing to acquiesce to. And, at the time, trading for McNabb meant giving up at least a #2 draft pick.

This occasion is much different---because when McNabb is released, it won't cost the Cardinals a draft pick---and after McNabb's uneven season in Washington, the Cardinals will be able to sign him to a reasonable, incentive laden deal---which will be a win-win for both sides.

I firmly believe that McNabb would be rejuvented in Arizona---and that his signing would excite and motivate the entire squad---and best of all, will raise the bar of expectations back to where it was two years ago.

2. Trade #1: CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie to Carolina and WR Early Doucet for 34OLB Everette Brown (6-1, 256, 23, 3rd year, Florida St.) and QB Jimmy Clausen (6-2, 222, 23, 2nd, Notre Dame).

Why the trade works for the Cardinals: After drafting Patrick Peterson and with the full intention of signing UFA CB Ike Taylor, the Cardinals are in a position to upgrade other areas of the team. The Cardinals have depth at WR, so the oft-injured Doucet is available and is headed into a contract year after this year anyway.

Everette Brown gives the Cardinals a speed option on the edge and Jimmy Clausen joins John Skelton to give the Cardinals a promising young duo of 2nd year QBs behind Donovan McNabb. Clausen thrives at throwing the three most importnat passes in the Cardinals' offense: the out, the skinny post and the corner fade. There are questions about Clausen's temperament, but the same was said early on in their careers about Kurt Warner and Aaron Rodgers. At $1.4M a season for the next three years, Clausen is well worth the risk.

Why the trade works for the Panthers: they need a speed CB who can cover the Saints', Falcons' and Bucs' WRs if they are going to compete for their division---and they have no speed CBs on their roster. They have every intention of re-signing DE/OLB Charles Johnson and they like 2nd year OLB/DEs Greg Hardy & Eric Norwood enough to let Everette Brown go. As for Jimmy Clausen---the young QB who wil get the playing time is their #1 pick, Cam Newton. Ron Rivera will sign a veteran like Billy Volek as insurance, thus relegating Clausen to #3. If adding Clausen allows them to acquire DRC, in their minds it's a no-brainer. Adding a slot WR in Doucet is also attractive to them as most of their young WR talent is on the perimeter. And don't be surprised if they trade WR Steve Smith if they can get the kind of value they want in return.

3. Trade RB Beanie Wells to Cincinnati for LB Rey Maualuga (6-2, 255, 24, 3rd, USC). The Bengals love Wells and are confident that they will put him in a position to thrive the way they did with Cedric Benson. The Bengals like their depth at LB, and while they remain high on Maualuga, they feel that adding a feature RB to replace Benson is a priority.

In Maualuga, the Cardinals acquire their starting 34 SILB...the position that is a better fit for his skills than 43 SOLB (where he plays for the Bengals).

4. Re-sign: WR Steve Breaston; C Lyle Sendlein; G Deuce Lutui; DT Alan Branch; NT Gabe Watson.

5. Sign CB Ike Tayor (6-2, 195, 31, 9th, Louisina-Lafeyette); T Jared Gaither (6-9, 340, 26, 5th, Maryland) and TE Kevin Boss (6-6, 253, 27, 5th, Western Oregon).

DEPTH CHART (STARTERS IN BOLD)

QB: McNABB (Skelton, Clausen)
RB: HIGHTOWER/WILLIAMS (Stephens-Howling)
FB: SHERMAN
TE: BOSS (Housler, Dray)
LT: GAITHER (Bridges)
LG: BROWN L./HADNOT (Bridges)
C: SENDLEIN (Claxton)
RG: LUTUI (Hadnot, Bridges)
RT: KEITH (Bridges)
WR: FITZGERALD (Williams, S., Sampson)
WR: BREASTON (Roberts, Komar)

DE: DOCKETT (Iwebema)
NT: WILLIAMS (Watson)
DE: CAMPBELL (Branch, Carter)
SOLB: SCHOFIELD (Davis, Acho)
SILB: MAUALUGA (Walker, Sturdivant)
WILB: WASHINGTON (Lenon, Sturdivant)
WOLB: BROWN, E. (Porter---w/pay cut, Sharpe)
LCB: TAYLOR (Toler)
SS: WILSON (Lefeged)
FS: RHODES (Johnson)
RCB: PETERSON (Toler, Jefferson)
NCB: PETERSON (Adams)
NFS: JOHNSON

SPECIAL TEAMERS:


KOR: STEPHENS-HOWLING (R. Williams, Jefferson)

PR: PETERSON (Roberts)

P: GRAHAM

LS: LEACH

K: FEELY

Through the Uprights, baby! Cardinals WIN!

 

[Zeno]

RCB: PETERSON (Toler, Jefferson)
NCB: PETERSON (Adams)

Peterson is supposed to be awesome but I think he may have a hard time playing 2 positions at once.

1) McNabb would be terrible in a Whisenhunt offense and I don't see him adapting his offense to the QB

2) Trading DRC would be a mistake

 

[Mitch]

Peterson is supposed to be awesome but I think he may have a hard time playing 2 positions at once.

1) McNabb would be terrible in a Whisenhunt offense and I don't see him adapting his offense to the QB

2) Trading DRC would be a mistake

NCB (Nickel CB) means that PP would move up into the nickel role in passing situations with Toler and Taylor on the corners.

I don't see why McNabb would be terrible in Whiz's offense. For one, he would be the first QB here in a while who is good at throwing to his TEs----and now with Housler on board---Housler could be our version of Brent Celek (whom McNabb threw to in 2009 for 76/971/12.8/8 TDs). That's just one of many reasons---another is that the deep ball would also be in play with McNabb at QB.

The question with DRC is just how good of a fit he is in Horton's defense---and if the Cardinals can improve their pass rush by trading him (and QB position), it could be a boon for both teams.

 

[Dr. Jones]

With our pass rush we will need all of the DB's we can get. Especially those with All-Pro talent.

I would trade Wells for Palmer, but not Maualuga (sp?).

Mitch.... Fun read. I enjoy your opinions.

 

[Krangodnzr]

Signing McNabb: There are worse ideas out there (Marc Bulger IMO), but McNabb has a few flaws that may preclude him from being successful in Whisenhunt's offense:

1) He's not very accurate. His career average of 59% is borderline for the offense the Cardinals are looking to run.

2) He's extremely streaky. McNabb's performance against us in the NFC Championship game is indicative of his entire career. He's long been known to have 3 bad quarters and then turn it on in the 4th. As his athleticism continues to erode, he'll likely struggle more IMO.

McNabb is a bottom of the barrel veteran for this offense. I would take Orton, Kolb, Palmer over McNabb. He's only going to be a stopgap answer for a year or two, which IMO further limits his appeal.

Trading DRC for a bucket of greasy chicken and flat soda: IMO that's essentially what you're trading him for in this scenario. Trading away a former Pro Bowl corner with 4.29 speed for Carolina's recent 2nd round busts. It's quite telling that Brown started THREE total games in 2 seasons after Carolina traded away a first rounder to get him. And Clausen went down as one of the single worst rookie QBs in recent memory.

As much as you don't think DRC is a fit in Horton's offense, he still has more value than this. Let's give DRC another year before we give up on him, since reports state that DRC is working on his issue and has finally started putting on some muscle.

Trading for Rey Maualuga: I just don't see why the Bengals are trading away their soon to be starting MLB (they don't plan on resigning Dhani Jones from what I've heard) for a possible starting RB. They also like their depth at RB too, and there a veteran RB options that would preclude the Bengals trading away a starter to get.

I would love to add Maualuga. Though he'll never be a star and will never approach the expectations he created at USC, he's still a very solid run down player.

Signing Ike Taylor: Free Agency isn't a vacuum; there are other teams out there that are desperate for CBs. And Ike Taylor, as old and crummy as he is, will be a sought after player. His cost will be likely way too prohibitive to sign since so many teams need veteran corners.

Signing Gaither/Boss: IMO would be fantastic and would instantly improve the Cardinals offense, since Gaither is a true do-it-all LT and Boss brings value as a receiver, runblocker AND Passblocker.

IMO I would do this instead:

Trade for Kolb or Orton: Depending on the day, I lean another way. IMO Kolb has more upside AND downside and is likely to be more expensive. Orton is more dependable but has less upside, but will be cheaper. Either of them offer long term stability at the QB position and could excel in Whisenhunt's offense.

Resign: Sendlein, Breaston, Lutui, and Branch. These are our veteran middle tier players that are the core of our team. Losing any one of them could hurt, and IMO all are underrated players that still have some upside.

Sign:

Gary Guyton, ILB
Jared Gaither, LT
Kevin Boss, TE

Guyton is no world beater, but he does a little bit of everything and is a definite upgrade that shouldn't be too expensive. He's likely only a marginal upgrade over Lenon, but he would improve the overall depth of the LB corps.

 

[Crazy Canuck]

Signing McNabb: There are worse ideas out there (Marc Bulger IMO), but McNabb has a few flaws that may preclude him from being successful in Whisenhunt's offense:

1) He's not very accurate. His career average of 59% is borderline for the offense the Cardinals are looking to run.

2) He's extremely streaky. McNabb's performance against us in the NFC Championship game is indicative of his entire career. He's long been known to have 3 bad quarters and then turn it on in the 4th. As his athleticism continues to erode, he'll likely struggle more IMO.

McNabb is a bottom of the barrel veteran for this offense. I would take Orton, Kolb, Palmer over McNabb. He's only going to be a stopgap answer for a year or two, which IMO further limits his appeal.

Trading DRC for a bucket of greasy chicken and flat soda: IMO that's essentially what you're trading him for in this scenario. Trading away a former Pro Bowl corner with 4.29 speed for Carolina's recent 2nd round busts. It's quite telling that Brown started THREE total games in 2 seasons after Carolina traded away a first rounder to get him. And Clausen went down as one of the single worst rookie QBs in recent memory.

As much as you don't think DRC is a fit in Horton's offense, he still has more value than this. Let's give DRC another year before we give up on him, since reports state that DRC is working on his issue and has finally started putting on some muscle.

Trading for Rey Maualuga: I just don't see why the Bengals are trading away their soon to be starting MLB (they don't plan on resigning Dhani Jones from what I've heard) for a possible starting RB. They also like their depth at RB too, and there a veteran RB options that would preclude the Bengals trading away a starter to get.

I would love to add Maualuga. Though he'll never be a star and will never approach the expectations he created at USC, he's still a very solid run down player.

Signing Ike Taylor: Free Agency isn't a vacuum; there are other teams out there that are desperate for CBs. And Ike Taylor, as old and crummy as he is, will be a sought after player. His cost will be likely way too prohibitive to sign since so many teams need veteran corners.

Signing Gaither/Boss: IMO would be fantastic and would instantly improve the Cardinals offense, since Gaither is a true do-it-all LT and Boss brings value as a receiver, runblocker AND Passblocker.

IMO I would do this instead:

Trade for Kolb or Orton: Depending on the day, I lean another way. IMO Kolb has more upside AND downside and is likely to be more expensive. Orton is more dependable but has less upside, but will be cheaper. Either of them offer long term stability at the QB position and could excel in Whisenhunt's offense.

Resign: Sendlein, Breaston, Lutui, and Branch. These are our veteran middle tier players that are the core of our team. Losing any one of them could hurt, and IMO all are underrated players that still have some upside.

Sign:

Gary Guyton, ILB
Jared Gaither, LT
Kevin Boss, TE

Guyton is no world beater, but he does a little bit of everything and is a definite upgrade that shouldn't be too expensive. He's likely only a marginal upgrade over Lenon, but he would improve the overall depth of the LB corps.

Like your take on all of this Krang.

What about Kayron (sp?) Fox from Pitt as an added inside LB? He's a FA with experience in the system that no doubt will be implemented. Must say, after watching the last 2, 3 games of last season, that Schofield may impress as a rush LB. He finds holes, penetrates and has a good motor.

 

[Duckjake]

I like it all except the trade with Carolina. Schofield is probably better than Brown and Haggans/Acho/Davis with Schofield/Porter/Sharpe would be a better OLB group.

 

[Mitch]

Signing McNabb: There are worse ideas out there (Marc Bulger IMO), but McNabb has a few flaws that may preclude him from being successful in Whisenhunt's offense:

1) He's not very accurate. His career average of 59% is borderline for the offense the Cardinals are looking to run.

2) He's extremely streaky. McNabb's performance against us in the NFC Championship game is indicative of his entire career. He's long been known to have 3 bad quarters and then turn it on in the 4th. As his athleticism continues to erode, he'll likely struggle more IMO.

McNabb is a bottom of the barrel veteran for this offense. I would take Orton, Kolb, Palmer over McNabb. He's only going to be a stopgap answer for a year or two, which IMO further limits his appeal.

Trading DRC for a bucket of greasy chicken and flat soda: IMO that's essentially what you're trading him for in this scenario. Trading away a former Pro Bowl corner with 4.29 speed for Carolina's recent 2nd round busts. It's quite telling that Brown started THREE total games in 2 seasons after Carolina traded away a first rounder to get him. And Clausen went down as one of the single worst rookie QBs in recent memory.

As much as you don't think DRC is a fit in Horton's offense, he still has more value than this. Let's give DRC another year before we give up on him, since reports state that DRC is working on his issue and has finally started putting on some muscle.

Trading for Rey Maualuga: I just don't see why the Bengals are trading away their soon to be starting MLB (they don't plan on resigning Dhani Jones from what I've heard) for a possible starting RB. They also like their depth at RB too, and there a veteran RB options that would preclude the Bengals trading away a starter to get.

I would love to add Maualuga. Though he'll never be a star and will never approach the expectations he created at USC, he's still a very solid run down player.

Signing Ike Taylor: Free Agency isn't a vacuum; there are other teams out there that are desperate for CBs. And Ike Taylor, as old and crummy as he is, will be a sought after player. His cost will be likely way too prohibitive to sign since so many teams need veteran corners.

Signing Gaither/Boss: IMO would be fantastic and would instantly improve the Cardinals offense, since Gaither is a true do-it-all LT and Boss brings value as a receiver, runblocker AND Passblocker.

IMO I would do this instead:

Trade for Kolb or Orton: Depending on the day, I lean another way. IMO Kolb has more upside AND downside and is likely to be more expensive. Orton is more dependable but has less upside, but will be cheaper. Either of them offer long term stability at the QB position and could excel in Whisenhunt's offense.

Resign: Sendlein, Breaston, Lutui, and Branch. These are our veteran middle tier players that are the core of our team. Losing any one of them could hurt, and IMO all are underrated players that still have some upside.

Sign:

Gary Guyton, ILB
Jared Gaither, LT
Kevin Boss, TE

Guyton is no world beater, but he does a little bit of everything and is a definite upgrade that shouldn't be too expensive. He's likely only a marginal upgrade over Lenon, but he would improve the overall depth of the LB corps.

Great post, Krang.

1. I think you are under-estimating McNabb. And sure I may be over-estimating him. I do know this: if the Cardinals sign McNabb they will be perceived as the front-runner of the NFC West---and those type of perceptions can motivate an entire football team, especailly one in need of a boost in confidence and morale.

My first choice would be Carson Palmer---but Mike Brown is almost always good on his word and if he says he won't trade Palmer---he won't.

Kolb intrigues me---no doubt...but the price tag (#1 pick minimum and a huge contract) is just too dang risky for my tastes.

Orton, I like---I think he's solid. But I don't think he'd bring the swagger back to the offense the way McNabb would. But---if we are going for a longer term answer, I am fine with Orton.

What I like about having McNabb is having two more years to develop John Skelton and in my scenario here, Jimmy Clausen. I know I don't have much company in believing this, but I still believe that Clausen is the most Kurt Warner-like of any of the young QBs in the NFL. Judging him on his performance last year is tricky---he played on the worst team in the league under a lame duck head coach and alongside of one of the more cantankerous veteran WRs in the league.

I am fascinated with Vince Young---am certainly well aware of the risks with him---but if we are going to continue to play Levi Brown at LT---it sure would be nice to have a running/scrambling threat at QB to soften the pass rushes and coverages with. I also like that Young will have to accept a deal based on incentives, which could make the reward far greater than the risk.

2. I am very tempted to agree with you on DRC---but---tell me how we can improve the pass rush AND keep DRC. A speed rusher could do wonders for our offense.

The reason why Everette Brown didn't start in Carolina is that they play the 43 and Brown is too small to be a starting 43 DE. Thus, they used him primarily as a situational rusher in passing situations.

However, in Arizona Brown would have two main things going for him: (1) he can play a position (34 OLB) that he is naturally suited for; (2) he can profit from being motivated by fellow Seminole Darnell Dockett---you just know Dockett would make Brown his pet project.

Hey, we narrowly missed out on acquiring Kamerion Wimbley last year---Brown may develop the way Wimbley did in his 3rd and 4th years.

3. The Bengals are planning to start 2nd year player Roddrick Muckelroy at MLB.

4. Ike Taylor is a "crummy" player? Hyperbole on your part or do you really think Taylor is crummy?

5. Guyton would be a great pick---but he's a RFA (going into his 4th year).

6. We agree on Gaither and Boss!

 

[Krangodnzr]

Like your take on all of this Krang.

What about Kayron (sp?) Fox from Pitt as an added inside LB? He's a FA with experience in the system that no doubt will be implemented. Must say, after watching the last 2, 3 games of last season, that Schofield may impress as a rush LB. He finds holes, penetrates and has a good motor.

Keyaron Fox is an eight year veteran, who has never started more than 4 games in a season. He's mainly a special teamer, and shouldn't be looked at as a starter in our systems.

I like Guyton quite a bit more because he's shown he'll actually make some plays. He's also young (25), and could likely be had for a midlevel veteran contract. He's probably not a guy that you want as your starter, but he's a significant upgrade over Reggie Walker and might be an upgrade over Lenon as well.

 

[Arizona's Finest]

I actually like the idea of signing McNabb but with the way Urban has categorically denied it will ever happen over the past two season- and he is always loathe to be too extreme to one side or the other so its telling - you know someone in the organization told him flat out it will never happen.

I also agree with Krang. Cmon Mitch we get you don't like DRC for Hortons scehems but for Everette Brown and Jimmy Claussen?? Carolina would trade us those two for a couple conditional 5th round picks. DRC was a reigning Pro Bowl player this time last year and he didn't have THAT bad a year in 2010.

 

[joeshmo]

I actually like the idea of signing McNabb but with the way Urban has categorically denied it will ever happen over the past two season- and he is always loathe to be too extreme to one side or the other so its telling - you know someone in the organization told him flat out it will never happen.

Add to the fact that it isn't just Urban. It is every single person in the know concerning Cards in AZ - Urban, Somers, Jurecki, Wolf. All Categorically deny we ever had interest or ever will have interest.

 

[Krangodnzr]

Great post, Krang.

1. I think you are under-estimating McNabb. And sure I may be over-estimating him. I do know this: if the Cardinals sign McNabb they will be perceived as the front-runner of the NFC West---and those type of perceptions can motivate an entire football team, especailly one in need of a boost in confidence and morale.

I just don't think he brings enough as a pure passer to improve this team enough. McNabb has never been a great pure passer IMO, he's been one of those guys who makes crunch time plays, but down-for-down he can be quite average at times.

What I do like about him is resume as a winner and the leadership he would bring to the field. McNabb has never been considered a great workout guy, and that may change once he's around Larry Fitzgerald full time and gets to live in his Chandler, AZ residence full time.

My first choice would be Carson Palmer---but Mike Brown is almost always good on his word and if he says he won't trade Palmer---he won't.

I like Carson Palmer --- four years ago. He's a gamble at greatness IMO, a huge one. He also (like McNabb) wouldn't be much of a longer term fix. But every possible available QB, he does have the highest potential upside for this team.

I do agree, Mike Brown is NOT going to cut him lose, which is a shame since the Bengals will be stuck getting no compensation for a player they invested a #1 overall pick one. So, realistically Palmer isn't really in the conversation for possible options.

Kolb intrigues me---no doubt...but the price tag (#1 pick minimum and a huge contract) is just too dang risky for my tastes.

Once the smoke settles and when the Eagles are able to actually start looking at the trade market, they will quickly realize that they WON'T get a 1st rounder for Kolb. IMO the market for Kolb begins, and ends, with the Arizona Cardinals.

Nearly every supposedly QB needy team likely wouldn't even surrender a second rounder on a largely unproven commodity. Dolphins? They're going with Henne and wouldn't do it. Vikings? Christian Ponder. Seahawks? They just traded the house to get Whitehurst and they aren't looking to give up picks in next years draft. Tennessee just drafted Locker and the Bengals drafted Dalton (and have Palmer). The Browns believe they are more than a year away from seriously competing (smartly) and are willing to give McCoy a go (and are possibly an Andrew Luck landing spot).

The Eagles will be LUCKY to get two second rounders for Kolb, and it may be less. I think a realistic package could be a 2012 2nd and 3rd.

As for the contract issue? The Cardinals have boatloads of cash to spend, we're not exactly against the cap. And as I've learned over time, it's better to spend to possibly improve the team than to spend nothing at all (like last year).

Orton, I like---I think he's solid. But I don't think he'd bring the swagger back to the offense the way McNabb would. But---if we are going for a longer term answer, I am fine with Orton.

This is a legitimate point about Orton and is one of the reasons he hasn't endeared himself with two franchises. But I see swagger in our offense coming from our new tailback, Ryan Williams. IMO Williams has the chance to be a star if he returns to his 2009 form.

What I like about having McNabb is having two more years to develop John Skelton and in my scenario here, Jimmy Clausen. I know I don't have much company in believing this, but I still believe that Clausen is the most Kurt Warner-like of any of the young QBs in the NFL. Judging him on his performance last year is tricky---he played on the worst team in the league under a lame duck head coach and alongside of one of the more cantankerous veteran WRs in the league.

From what my brother has told me (he live is in Charlotte), the local talk is that John Fox and his staff literally did nothing to develop last years draft class since they 1) had no say in the draft class 2) knew they were gone at year's end. Kind of bush league on Fox's part, but I can't blame him on some levels.

What this means, is that Clausen was in likely the worst situation in the league for any young QB to come into. What I judge him on though, is that outside of two games, he showed very little long term potential. Talk from Carolina is that he was LITERALLY SCARED out there. That doesn't bode well for his long term potential and he may need a few years of "recovery" after dealing with what he went through in Carolina. I think he can be had in a few years for no compensation.

I am fascinated with Vince Young---am certainly well aware of the risks with him---but if we are going to continue to play Levi Brown at LT---it sure would be nice to have a running/scrambling threat at QB to soften the pass rushes and coverages with. I also like that Young will have to accept a deal based on incentives, which could make the reward far greater than the risk.

Vince Young's problems are not football related; outside of Jamarcus Russell, no QB in recent memory has had more off the field issues. His IQ has come into question, not only from having an incredibly low Wonderlic score coming into the league, but also from his comments to the media and his off the field actions.

His love of the game have come in to question as had his emotional makeup. Not exactly the kind of guy I want leading my football team.

2. I am very tempted to agree with you on DRC---but---tell me how we can improve the pass rush AND keep DRC. A speed rusher could do wonders for our offense.

The reason why Everette Brown didn't start in Carolina is that they play the 43 and Brown is too small to be a starting 43 DE. Thus, they used him primarily as a situational rusher in passing situations.

However, in Arizona Brown would have two main things going for him: (1) he can play a position (34 OLB) that he is naturally suited for; (2) he can profit from being motivated by fellow Seminole Darnell Dockett---you just know Dockett would make Brown his pet project.

Hey, we narrowly missed out on acquiring Kamerion Wimbley last year---Brown may develop the way Wimbley did in his 3rd and 4th years.

But this makes him a projection; the Cardinals would basically be trading a former (and maybe future) Pro Bowler for a guy who might be able to play 3-4 OLB. DRC, when he has played to his potential, has top 3 ability. In 2009, other than the first few games, DRC was the third best CB in the NFL after Revis and Woodson. IMO this is a terrible trade idea that has the potential to blow up in our face.

Brown does have potential, I'll agree with that, but not so much that we should even think about trading a potential All Pro CB for him. As much as I dislike the idea of this, I beginning to believe we're going to stick with Porter, Haggans, Schofield, Davis, and Acho this year. There is potential in this group still; Schofield and Acho IMO can be capable to good starters at WOLB and SOLB respectively.

3. The Bengals are planning to start 2nd year player Roddrick Muckelroy at MLB.

I've heard otherwise; I've heard the plan on moving Rey to MLB, which is why they used a high pick (and IMO it's a poor fit) on Dontay Moch to play OLB. So they would have a starting LB corps of SLB: Rivers MLB: Maualuga WLB: Moch, with Muckelroy backing up the inside and all world LB Brandon Johnson being the primary back up for the OLB spots.

4. Ike Taylor is a "crummy" player? Hyperbole on your part or do you really think Taylor is crummy?

Heh, it is a bit of hyperbole, but I think you vastly overrate him. He's "alright" but he would be a huge step back from DRC as a cover guy. I think if you ask every scouting staff in the NFL, they would tell you that a CB group of DRC/Peterson/Toler is a lot more disruptive than a CB group of Peterson/Taylor/Toler. Additionally, I don't think Taylor is going to be had for cheap and if we want to make moves to shore up other parts of the roster it reduces our flexibility.

5. Guyton would be a great pick---but he's a RFA (going into his 4th year).

Oh, good catch. Plug in a number of veterans ILBs from his level of free agents. I would love Tulloch, but we may have to settle for the Morrison/Ruud class. I wonder why the Buccaneers have soured so much on Ruud?

6. We agree on Gaither and Boss!

Yes we do. And if we can't get Gaither, go after Jammal Brown who has played at a Pro Bowl level before and would still represent a HUGE upgrade over Levi Brown. Maybe Fitzgerald's comment during the draft on Levi Brown that Whisenhunt supposedly made about Brown could be foretelling that the Cardinals plan on upgrading the position? Whisenhunt has shown in the past that he can reverse course on public statements of support for players. Just ask Matt Leinart.

 

[Krangodnzr]

DRC was a reigning Pro Bowl player this time last year and he didn't have THAT bad a year in 2010.

Five years ago this board would be RAVING about DRC if he had a season like he had last year. The expectations of Cardinals Nation has expanded dramatically; look at how fans talk about DRC, Calais Campbell, Daryl Washington, and Andre Roberts. IMO all are good young players (along with Brandon Keith as well) that this team should keep around for the next 5-10 years.

 

[Mitch]

I actually like the idea of signing McNabb but with the way Urban has categorically denied it will ever happen over the past two season- and he is always loathe to be too extreme to one side or the other so its telling - you know someone in the organization told him flat out it will never happen.

I also agree with Krang. Cmon Mitch we get you don't like DRC for Hortons scehems but for Everette Brown and Jimmy Claussen?? Carolina would trade us those two for a couple conditional 5th round picks. DRC was a reigning Pro Bowl player this time last year and he didn't have THAT bad a year in 2010.

AF: It's not necesaarily that I don't like DRC for Horton's scheme---it's that Horton may not like DRC for his scheme, other than in the nickel role....that is, unless, DRC shows a willingness AND an ability to make tackles this year.

I think Krang and you are right that Carolina should have to give up more to get DRC.

I was wondering about the Lions, who are also CB hungry...but I couldn't see them parting with Cliff Avril, their best edge rusher.

The lack of productive pass rushers on our edges still has me very concerned. Other than Schofield (who still hasn't shown edge speed, strength and quickness yet---because he was playing at 75%---), and as we saw a slowed-down version of Joey Porter there is no one...I mean no one...not a bona fide pass rusher in the batch.

That remains the biggest concern on defense.

We acquire a good QB and a good edge rusher and I will feel a great deal better about our draft and our chances to reclaim the NFC West.

 

[Krangodnzr]

AF: It's not necesaarily that I don't like DRC for Horton's scheme---it's that Horton may not like DRC for his scheme, other than in the nickel role....that is, unless, DRC shows a willingness AND an ability to make tackles this year.

I think Krang and you are right that Carolina should have to give up more to get DRC.

I was wondering about the Lions, who are also CB hungry...but I couldn't see them parting with Cliff Avril, their best edge rusher.

The lack of productive pass rushers on our edges still has me very concerned. Other than Schofield (who still hasn't shown edge speed, strength and quickness yet---because he was playing at 75%---), and as we saw a slowed-down version of Joey Porter there is no one...I mean no one...not a bona fide pass rusher in the batch.

That remains the biggest concern on defense.

We acquire a good QB and a good edge rusher and I will feel a great deal better about our draft and our chances to reclaim the NFC West.

For the most part, 3-4 edge rushers are developed, not drafted or signed. What I mean by this is that signing one through free agency is not realistic nor is using a high pick. There are notable exceptions, but historically the most intelligent use of draft capital and cap space is to draft a guy in round 4 and later and let them develop over a few years.

IMO there are only a few vets out there that could step right in and help our pass rush. Matt Roth and Manny Lawson could, but that would be at the expense of younger players. I'd go for Manny Lawson the more I think about it, since he's known for being good but not exceptional at everything.

 

[Mitch]

For the most part, 3-4 edge rushers are developed, not drafted or signed. What I mean by this is that signing one through free agency is not realistic nor is using a high pick. There are notable exceptions, but historically the most intelligent use of draft capital and cap space is to draft a guy in round 4 and later and let them develop over a few years.

IMO there are only a few vets out there that could step right in and help our pass rush. Matt Roth and Manny Lawson could, but that would be at the expense of younger players. I'd go for Manny Lawson the more I think about it, since he's known for being good but not exceptional at everything.

I think Roth and/or Lawson would help a lot. I also have my eye on Mathias Kiwanuka.

 

[jw7]

AF: It's not necesaarily that I don't like DRC for Horton's scheme---it's that Horton may not like DRC

I understand what you are saying, Mitch. But it is really hard to find a 6'2 corner in a passing league with blazing speed. He was a big reason we made the Super Bowl. And he is young.

11 picks and 4 defensive TD's. There may be a gray matter problem, but you can't teach those physical attributes in a passing league.

 

[Krangodnzr]

I think Roth and/or Lawson would help a lot. I also have my eye on Mathias Kiwanuka.

Kiwanuka would be a nice fit too, probably better than Roth.

Matt Roth is one of those guys that doesn't wow you with high sack numbers, but plays the run very well and creates consistent pressure. Kind of the anti-Bert Berry, who got lots of sacks, but didn't create much pressure.

 

[Mitch]

I understand what you are saying, Mitch. But it is really hard to find a 6'2 corner in a passing league with blazing speed. He was a big reason we made the Super Bowl. And he is young.

11 picks and 4 defensive TD's. There may be a gray matter problem, but you can't teach those physical attributes in a passing league.

Great point, jw7. Believe me---I don't really want to trade DRC---had we drafted one of the top pass rushers, I wouldn't be thinking about trading DRC.

 

[Longcolts]

I think you should be careful giving to much power to Horton right off the bat as he still has to go thru the Head Coach and GM and to some extent M. Bidwill to get rid of a player. They aren't going to get cut or traded just because Horton wants him gone, I don't believe. It may be a moot point anyway as there is going to be a period of adjustment and assessment that for some players may go to right up against the regular season. If this is true then I don't see DRC getting traded or released at all.

 

[joeshmo]

I think you should be careful giving to much power to Horton right off the bat as he still has to go thru the Head Coach and GM and to some extent M. Bidwill to get rid of a player. They aren't going to get cut or traded just because Horton wants him gone, I don't believe. It may be a moot point anyway as there is going to be a period of adjustment and assessment that for some players may go to right up against the regular season. If this is true then I don't see DRC getting traded or released at all.

Great Points.

On top of that recent story about Wiz having a great discussion with DRC at the end of the season seems to have already stuck with the young kid. Having showed up to the one day they were allowed to workout at the team facility 8 pounds heavier and noticeably much stronger in the upper body.

 

[JeffGollin]

McNabb
I did some digging to get more specifics about why the Cards were reportedly "not interested in" McNabb.

Was it a matter of age? Attitude? Lack of Conditioning? Fall-off in Production? Bad Relations with Coaching Staff?

The answer I kept getting back was pretty much "All of the above."

Although Fitz's input (if reports are true) could change the equation considerably, I don't think we're going to sign him.

Other Suggested Deals
I'm not crazy about any of them because in almost every instance, we give away more talent than we'd get back.

I agree that we need help at QB, OT, TE and (a pass rushing) OLB. But I also believe that solving the QB problem will put us back in playoff contention; with the other improvements icing on the cake. We'd be better advised to tweak those other positions than make a handful of risky "big" deals that could as easily hurt us as help us.

 

[kerouac9]

Manny Lawson is off my FA acquisitions list. He's the best 3-4 OLB available in free agency, and that means he's going to get overpaid. He'll get a contract in excess of what Calvin Pace got three years ago.

 

[Longcolts]

Great Points.

On top of that recent story about Wiz having a great discussion with DRC at the end of the season seems to have already stuck with the young kid. Having showed up to the one day they were allowed to workout at the team facility 8 pounds heavier and noticeably much stronger in the upper body.

Not to mention that DRC publicly stated that tackling was a part of his game that he really wanted to work on and get better at.

 

[Krangodnzr]

Manny Lawson is off my FA acquisitions list. He's the best 3-4 OLB available in free agency, and that means he's going to get overpaid. He'll get a contract in excess of what Calvin Pace got three years ago.

That's a very good point, and likely a reason that we will not sign Manny Lawson.

The more I look at it, the more I think we are not going to add any OLBs once free agency starts. First off, most will be very expensive and I don't think we're going to spend much. Secondly, I think the coaching staff thinks they can get more out Porter/Haggans.

Last year's precipitous fall off in production from Porter could have been a scheme issue/overuse issue. The past two seasons, Porter had 26 sacks, so there is a good chance that Porter could bounce back to at least the production he had in his last season with Miami. Schofield is the wildcard; he'll be further removed from his ACL tear and should start to get some of his burst back by now.

Haggans isn't much of a pass rusher, but he does a lot of the little things well. IMO he's still a solid football player, and if Acho is an improvement over Will Davis then I think we'll be ok over on the strongside.