Originally posted by Cardiac
So let's put aside the entire money issue and minimize the impact on the team's morale if the FA period was a huge DB issue.
Why do you think the Falcons and Redskins decided to give up first rd draft picks instead of going after DB. I would think if they held him in such high regard they would have busted a nut to get a crack (pun intended) at him. The Ravens had such a desire for DB that they settled for Sanders, they also didn't show a high degree of interest. Now consider the "interest" these teams would have had in DB if he was tagged. So not only are the Cards idiots but so are the Falcons, Redskins and Ravens.
I guess I should make the point that it isn't impossible the Cards could have gotten something for DB, I highly doubt a 1st rd pick, but now I will fall back on the team chemistry issue. The Cards weren't worried about a "sticky" situation but what could have blown up in their faces pertaining to team morale and chemistry.
This is the best offseason turn out to date. This tells me that the Cards are finally getting team oriented players and not just me types. Since this is virgin territory for the Cards you and I don't know how this will pay off this season. I'm betting it does reap dividends this year.
The falcons were very interested in Boston...I am not sure where you are getting that they werent? The problem is that Boston took a trip to San Diego and never left. The Falcons gave up once they heard word and went and signed Price. Baltimore was very interested as well but again-same scenario-Boston gave no one a chance.. Its pretty obvious he wanted to stay on the West Coast and play in San Diego. Thats of course speculation but the facts seem to point to it.
Additonally, the Redskins and Jets both expressed some interest in Boston as well. I just dont buy the arguement that he didnt garner much interest. I think teams didnt get a chance. San Diego layed it on thick and he stayed right there.
As far as chemistry, yes there is something to that. I do not disgaree, but in the big scheme of things talent is what wins you games. Sure, no player wants to be on a team where a guy gets favoritism, but it happens every day on every team-if you have the talent you can get away with it...simple as that.
Regardless, I highly doubt that Graves thought to himself "Well since he may effect team chemistry we will let him walk for nothing-the fans will understand!" THATS BS!
What is more likely that happened, was that the team was under the impression that Boston would be suspended for some games this seaosn and that no one would really be that interested in signing him to the type of money he was asking for only a partial season, and thus Boston would come crawling back!
A bad bad move on Graves part and one that will haunt him for some time to come. Letting a talent like that walk away with nothing in return is the very essance of why this team has always been and will continue to be cellar dwellars!