2006 Free Agent Tracker - Defense

Started by PhillyPhreak54, February 14, 2006, 10:24:52 AM

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PoopyfaceMcGee


SD_Eagle5

Jets also release DE Lance Legree and the immortal Barry Gardner.

Get Gardner!

PoopyfaceMcGee

Bills put the franchise tag on Nate Clements.

phattymatty

taterskins give Mark Brunell his last rites.

PoopyfaceMcGee

Quote from: phattymatty on February 22, 2006, 12:34:02 PM
taterskins give Mark Brunell his last rites.

This is an excellent thread for that post.  Was Brunell going to switch to DT next year?

SunMo

I'm the Anti-Christ. You got me in a vendetta kind of mood.

phattymatty


PoopyfaceMcGee


SunMo

I'm the Anti-Christ. You got me in a vendetta kind of mood.

Tomahawk


PhillyPhanInDC

#40
Top defensive players and a bit of a breakdown for each.

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2006 NFL Free Agents:
Linebackers
By: Thomas J Gersey

1. Julian Peterson, OLB, San Francisco [83 tkls, 3 sacks]

Peterson is clearly the cream of this year's linebacking crop, despite continuing worries about his durability. Over the years, he has played OLB, ILB, DE, SS and CB, demonstrating the superior athleticism that separates superstars from the rest of the league. Were it not for nagging injuries, Peterson would have been locked up as the team's cornerstone defensive player long ago. However, with the Niners having numerous problems elsewhere, they are sure to be hesitant to tie up so much money in a risky player.

Peterson has that rare first step that gets him off the line immediately, and makes him a top notch pass rusher. What puts him into the elite group of linebackers is that he isnt pigeon-holed as either a "cover guy" or a "pass rusher". With his speed, Peterson can chase down any ball carrier, and can even stretch out into coverage on passing downs. If he can stay healthy, he will be well worth the money he will command, and could take a contender to the next level.

GOOD FITS: Miami, NY Giants, Houston, Oakland, Detroit, Arizona, Baltimore, Chicago, San Francisco

EARLY PICK: Peterson is more than an filler. He is likely to be pursued by teams that need an OLB, but also by teams looking to add another superstar to an already effective defense. Teams like Baltimore or Chicago, who don't need a superstar linebacker, may pursue Peterson with the idea of making a strong unit unstoppable. Teams like Houston, Arizona, Oakland and Detroit will all be anxious to put a difference maker on the defensive side of the football. Arizona is an up and coming team, where Peterson would become the best player on a good defense as well as a team leader. Arizona has a good group of youngsters in Lance Mitchell and Daryl Blackstock at the LB position, and they may prefer to stick with developing who they have. In the end, Miami, New York and the Niners appear to be the top destinations for a player of his calibur. No team is more linebacker hungry than the Giants, and Peterson would be the type of player who could take a good Giants team to the elite level. Meanwhile, Miami is coming off of a surprisingly good 9-7 campaign. Reuniting Peterson with his college coach, Nick Saban, makes alot of sense. He would immediately team with Zack Thomas and Channing Crowder to form one of the league's most imposing units. In the end, I believe the Niners will hold on to Peterson, with either the franchise tag or a long term deal. For all of the Reggie Bush talk this season, their real holes are at offensive line, wide receiver and pass rusher. Losing a player who could fill one of those roles would be a an egregious error.

2. Andra Davis, ILB, Cleveland [149 tackles] (Editors Note: Davis was resigned by Cleveland)

Although he lacks the talent of a Ray Lewis or Brian Urlacher, he plays a similar sideline-to-sideline style that would be welcome on any team. A gifted athlete in college, Davis slipped to the 5th round, and has made up for lost time by quickly becoming the top playmaker for the Browns. He is a smart player who has good instincts when pursuing ball carriers. With a 6'1, 250 lbs frame, Davis sheds blockers very well, and is able to maintain pursuit. His major weakness is in the passing game, where he struggles to keep up with quick tight ends or backs coming out of the backfield.

Davis is an unrestricted free agent whom the Browns will make every effort to sign. With a good deal of room under the cap, he doesn't have the kind of name recognition that will lead to the kind of bidding war that would keep the Browns from retaining him.

GOOD FITS: NY Giants, Indianapolis, Tennessee, Cleveland

EARLY PICK: As stated above, Cleveland has to be considered the leader in the race for Davis. I wouldn't be surprised if the Browns lock him up before the free agent period begins. If he does go to the open market, Tennessee is sure to go after him with all it has. Brad Kossell played the best he could for the Titans, but Davis would be a tremendous upgrade over the later rounder from North Texas.


3. Cato June, ILB, Indianapolis [102 tackles, 5 int, 2 TD]

Coming out of no where, Cato June went from unknown to potential Defensive Player of the Year. In his third year out of Michigan, June showed the complete skills any defensive coordinator would be happy to rely on on a weekly basis. Obviously, June solved his problems with coverage, as evidenced by his 5 interceptions and 2 touchdowns. A very good athlete, June's major knock ahd always been an inability to get proper depth in zone coverage. Not only did he improve in that area, but he also demonstrated the ability to be an effective man defender as well. While he did manage 102 tackles, he continues to have problems shedding larger blockers in pursuit. June excels in the proper scheme, and would likely have difficulty being the focal point of a younger, less talented defense.

Everyone wants to know where the Colts are going to spend their money. With Edgerring James, Reggie Wayne, and three linebackers about to hit the free agent market, someone has to go. After the season he had, you can be sure the Colts will make every effort to maintain the services of June.

GOOD FITS: Indianapolis, NY Giants, Detroit, Oakland, Tennessee

EARLY PICK: The Colts are sure to franchise James and sign Reggie Wayne, if they can. With three excellent linebackers all free agents, they will have to choose who stays and who is expendable. My guess is that June will be a priority this offseason, and will remain in Indy. If not, New York would be eager to bring him in with an equally talented OLB, while teams like Detroit and Oakland may see him as the cornerstone of a young defense going forward.

"The very existence of flamethrowers proves that some time, somewhere, someone said to themselves, "You know, I want to set those people over there on fire, but I'm just not close enough to get the job done.""  R.I.P George.

PhillyPhanInDC

LBs cont.

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4. Akin Ayodele, OLB, Jacksonville [72 tackles, 4 FF]

Very good athlete with tremendous size at the OLB spot. Ayodele has slowly been coming on the past few years, and is finally showing the talent that was promised. 6'2, 251 lbs, Ayodele is the type of player who, when he hits you, you stay hit. Shows great explosion and burst out of his stance, he blows up tight ends off the line, and wraps up well on ball carriers. His biggest problem has been a lack of wind, and coupled with mediocre pass coverage, he is limited to being a two-down player. Slightly limited in his hip movement, he can be beat by quick runners around the outside. However, given the opportunity to line up a ball carrier, he is lights out consistent.

GOOD FITS: Jacksonville, Miami, New Orleans, Oakland, Houston, Dallas

EARLY PICK: A Dallas native, there is no reason to think he wouldnt be interested in returning to the big D. With Dat Nguyen likely to retire, and Scott Fujita and Eric Ogbagu free agents, Ayodele would fit perfectly in the Tuna's scheme opposite the explosive DeMarcus Ware. Houston may also come calling if they dont believe Jason Babin can step up and take his place in the starting lineup. If not, a replacement for Shantee Orr may be on their list of priorities. Oakland and New Orleans will likely seek to bring in a player of his caliber, young and less expensive than the premier free agents. Jacksonville, however, does not lose much this year, and can likely afford to bring Ayodele back, even franchising him if need be.

5. Will Witherspoon, OLB, Carolina [80 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 2 int]

The key to Witherspoon is that he is playing at an exceptional level, while being young enough to continue to improve. Very active from the outside, Witherspoon can move through blockers to get to the ball carrier, arriving often at full speed. He is a ball hawk, looking for the turnover when he meets the football. He has very good sideline-to-sideline speed, and consistently makes the play in the open field. On a team like Carolina, he is lucky to see alot of runners get through the front line, and is left to fight Dan Morgan and Mike Minter for tackles, meaning that his total of 80 on the season is no small feat. Witherspoon would fit very well on a young defense that focuses versitile, speedy linebackers who look to force turnovers.

GOOD FITS: Miami, Chicago, Houston, Arizona, New Orleans, Dallas, Oakland

EARLY PICK: Can Carolina afford to let Witherspoon walk? There is little to indicate that they feel he is irreplacable, though he has become an integral part of their top three defense, and losing him would definitely create a hole. With greater needs, especiall at running back, it is likely that the Panthers will choose to spend their money elsewhere. It is unlikely they would franchise Witherspoon, and pay top dollar for a second tier linebacker. It is more likely that a struggling team will look to overspend for a player like Witherspoon, who still has alot of room to grow. Chicago would be a very intersting choice, as Witherspoon plays similar to Lance Briggs, and would likely excel in the Bears' defensive scheme. A Texas native, he would also look good in Houston, where he would fit well with a young team, or Dallas, where they would be able to continue to get younger on defense. Teams like New Orleans, Oakland and Arizona continue to be in the mix for every young, explosive linebacker.

OTHER FREE AGENTS OF NOTE:

Antwan Peek, OLB, Houston (RFA): The ex-Cincinnati Bearcat has a ton of potential, and finally got a look in Houston this season. It is likely that any term sheet he signs will be affordable, and quickly matched. Has the look of becoming everything Jason Babin was supposed to.

Ben Taylor, OLB, Cleveland: Very smart player who recognizes opposing schemes nad positions himself well to make the play. Put together 110 tackles while playing alongside all everything linebacker Andra Davis. Would fit well with a team looking to supplement an existing solid corps of linebackers.

Gary Brackett, OLB, Indianapolis: Another potential casuality as the Colts are stuck with numerous quality players about to become free agents. If Reggie Wayne walks, the Colts are sure to keep June and Brackett on board as the core of an elite defensive unit. If they decide to hold on to Wayne, June and James, there is likely to be little remaining for the solid Brackett (127 tackles, 3int). A good tackler in space, Brackett isnt spectacular, but he is consitent, and would fit good with a team like the Giants, Dolphins or Lions.

Nate Webster, OLB, Cincinnati: After losing his job to rookie Odell Thurman, Webster now looks to be expendable for the Bengals. Still young and athletic enough to start, Webster is likely to catch on somewhere where he will have an opportunity to start. Would be a great fit in New Orleans, Detroit, Arizona or Oakland.

Ronald McKinnon, ILB, New Orleans: The consumate pro. A great pass defender, McKinnon has also been a tackling machine over the years. Stuck in a bad situation in New Orleans, McKinnon was called upon to be the focal point of the defense. McKinnon would be better served along side other veterans, on a playoff calibur team, where he would likely put up numbers to rival Cato June's. That being said, a team like Indianapolis would be a perfect fit, as they need a solid veteran replacement should they lose any linebackers, and McKinnon's skill set would be ideal for the Colts' scheme. If not, the Giants are likely to come calling, or perhaps Philadelphia or Detroit.

"The very existence of flamethrowers proves that some time, somewhere, someone said to themselves, "You know, I want to set those people over there on fire, but I'm just not close enough to get the job done.""  R.I.P George.

PhillyPhanInDC

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2006 NFL Free Agents:
Defensive Line
By: Thomas J Gersey

1. John Abraham, DE, New York Jets [58 tkls, 11.0 sacks, 6 FF]

One of the elite pass rushers in the league, Abraham has accumulated 53.5 sacks in his six year career. Despite gaudy sack numbers, Abraham has also shown excellent skill as a run stopper, with the speed to shut off the outside route for speedy runners. At 258 lbs, Abraham lacks the ideal size for an end, but any more size would limit his speed, which is his real strength. His first step is quick enough to beat almost any lineman, but Abraham can get repetitious in his moves, and needs to do a better job of mixing up his looks. Only 27, any team acquiring Abraham would be able to plug in an elite pass rusher for the next 5 years.

GOOD FITS: New York Jets, Minnesota, Washington, San Francisco

EARLY PICK: Abraham has been franchised repeatedly, and this year will likely be no different. With new head coach Eric Mangini, defense will again be a priority in New York, and Abraham is one of the team's cornerstones. If the Jets allow him to walk, it will take a free spender looking to upgrade significantly to lure him away. Minnesota would be a great fit where they are desparate to revamp their identity, and money will not be an object. Meanwhile, Washington has a fantastic defense, which only lacks a premier pass rusher. Expect a player like Abraham to provoke Dan Snyder into opening the pocket book.

2. Darren Howard, DE, New Orleans [33 tkls, 4.0 sacks, 2 FF]

Howard has been a bit of an enigma during his 6 years in the league. One year, he looks like the next premier pass rusher in the game. The next year he struggles to play a full season. Howard has had injury problems hte pas three years, so any team pursuing him will have to factor that in. Howard has been franchised, as well as shopped, in the past. After a year of turmoil and the hiring of an offensive minded HC, look for hte Saints to finally cut ties with Howard. He is a great athlete for his size, and has shown the ability to rush the passer consistently in the past. He is also a load, and could move to DT if needed with his 275 lbs frame. However, he is susceptible to double teams, and has trouble adjusting once he turns the corner. Still 29, if he can stay healthy he would be worth the risk. Could be had for good value with an incentive-laden deal.

GOOD FITS: OAK, ARIZ, DET, CLEV, CINCY

EARLY PICK: Oakland seems like the perfect fit. He is still young, with explosive athletic ability. He would come cheaper than in years past, though you can expect a team like the Raiders to still overpay. After hitting it big with Derrick Burgess last season, Howard could be the perfect bookend for the woeful Raiders. If not Oakland, a young team like Cincy or Arizona may snatch up Howard for a reasonable price.

3. Larry Tripplett, DT, Indianapolis [30 tkls, 4.0 sacks]

Tripplett may seem like an odd pick this high, but considering the value he may be had for, he could be the perfect fit on a contender looking to upgrade the DT position. Tripplett has good size, and the ability to shed double teams on a consistent basis. What he lacks in intensity, he makes up for with intelligence. He reads block schemes well, and anticipates plays rather than reacting to them. If he were to add strength in the weight room, he could move into the upper tier of tackles.

GOOD FITS: SEA, BUFF, IND, GB

EARLY PICK: Another Colt free agent, the first question becomes: who do they keep? If Tripplett is amongst the lucky, then expect him to resign with Indy. However, it is likely Indy will deem him replaceable, and he will get a quality offer elsewhere. Seattle has serviceable lineman, but bringing home the former UW star would seem like the perfect fit. Holes in Green Bay and Buffalo may lead Tripplett to head to one of those two rebuilding teams where money will be spent a bit more recklessly.

"The very existence of flamethrowers proves that some time, somewhere, someone said to themselves, "You know, I want to set those people over there on fire, but I'm just not close enough to get the job done.""  R.I.P George.

PhillyPhanInDC

D-Line cont.

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4. Kyle Vanden Bosch, DE, Tennessee [66 tkls, 13.0 sacks, 4 FF]

After three years as a complimentary player in Arizona, Vanden Bosch found a home starting for the rebuilding Titans. Only 27, it appears that he has learned how to harness his gambling tendencies, and maintain control at the line of scrimmage. At 278 lbs, he possess excellent size for an end, but also has great overall athleticism. One on one, he has the ability to defeat similar sized lineman. When engulfed by larger players, or double teamed, he has a tendency to play high and get pushed around. When his technique is sound, he brings great pressure, and has plenty of time to develop even further.

GOOD FITS: TENN, MINN, DET, CLEV

EARLY PICK: vanden Bosch may get attention elsewhere, but he has found a home in Tennessee and will likely sign before the free agent period begins.

5. Orpheus Roye, DT, Cleveland [88 tkls, 3.0 sacks, 4 PD]

Roye quietly had one of the better seasons by a lineman this past season. Traditionally, tackles are hard to come by from the interior, but Roye managed an amazing 88, while also defending 4 passes in zone blitz coverage. At 6-4, 305, Roye is built for the interior, but is agile enough to move along the line. Much like a Tommie Harris, Roye doesn't get alot of sacks, but does create alot of pressure. At age 32, he would be a perfect addition to a contender looking to solidify its interior defense with a veteran presence.

GOOD FITS: NYG, BALT

EARLY PICK: Roye is likely to get alot of attention, but a veteran team, with super bowl potential, makes the most sense for him. The Giants spent this past season weak on the defensive line, and may lose one of those players. Roye would be the ideal player to take pressure off of superior pass rushers Omenyioura and Strahan. Meanwhile, Baltimore could use an upgrade on the line, especially if Anthony Weaver were to leave.

OTHER FREE AGENTS OF NOTE:

Chris Hovan, DT, Tampa Bay: Despite 6 years in the league, Hovan is still only 27 years old. He has had alot of personal problems, but played solidly in Tampa Bay this year without any problems. He may be on the verge of resdiscovering himself as an elite tackle, if he can get into a good situation. Hovan may resign in Tampa, but a place like Philadelphia or the Giants would be a good situation. However, signing with St Louis or Oakland seems more likely, and less ideal for his well being.

Damione Lewis & Ryan Pickett, DT, St Louis: With Jimmy Kennedy waiting in the wings, its likely one of these two will be let go. Both are very young and talented, but have yet to break through and display the production that was expected of them. Young teams like Green Bay, New Orleans, Arizona, Detroit and Oakland may take a look at these guys, who could provide high reward for their risk.

Anthony Weaver, DE, Baltimore: At 6'3, 280, Weaver can play inside or on the end. As an end, Weaver gets solid penetration by overpowering smaller lineman. Inside, he can maintain a blocker long enough to peel off and make plays. Baltiore will likely keep the 25 year old on board at an affordable price, where he should develop into an above average lineman.

Ryan Denney, DE, Buffalo: The perfect example of a player who gets more out of his talent than others. Denney is an average athlete, but extremely tough and aggressive. Doesnt get to the quarterback very often, but is very effective against the run. Will likely remain in Buffalo, but might fit well opposite an elite pass rusher elsewhere.

Kimo Von Oelhoffen, DT, Pittsburgh: The perfect cog in a top notch defense, von Oelhoffen is the type of player who acts as the glue between players. He may not get the stats, but without him, no one else would. At age 34, he is likely to resign with Pitt and finish out his career tutoring a midround pick. One place he won't be next season is Cincinnati.

"The very existence of flamethrowers proves that some time, somewhere, someone said to themselves, "You know, I want to set those people over there on fire, but I'm just not close enough to get the job done.""  R.I.P George.

PhillyPhanInDC

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2006 NFL Free Agents:
Cornerbacks and Safeties
By: Thomas J Gersey

1. Charles Woodson, Oakland [31 tackles, 1 INT]

It is no secret that Woodson has worn out his welcome in Oakland, and will be hitting the free agent market as early as he can. The primary reason stated by Oakland management will be that Woodson's skills have eroded to the point that he is no longer worth the money it will cost to keep him. While his on the field performance has certainly slipped over the years (culminating this season with a trip to the IR for a broken right leg) the real drain on Woodson's performance is better attributed to a lack of desire, and less to a lack of talent. Don't be fooled by the claims coming out of the East Bay, Woodson still has the ability to be a number one corner. What is missing is something to ignite the fire within him, something to push him to return to that elite level. An opportunity to play for a winner again, or to return to his midwest roots, may be the impetus Woodson needs to renew his career.

Already 29, teams should be wary of giving him a long term deal, however, they should not be afraid to insert him into their starting lineup. At 6'1, 200 lbs, Woodson is big and physical, with the ability to chuck receivers off the line before they can get into their routes. Although he lacks the closing speed of the game's premier corners, he is still quick enough to make up ground on most receivers. A step below elite players like Champ Bailey and Chris McAlister, Woodson still has the talent to compete with almost any corner in the game.

GOOD FITS: Detroit, Cleveland, Pittsburgh, New England, Kansas City, Arizona, New York Jets, Dallas

EARLY PICK: The Lions would make sense for the former Wolverine, as he could team with another free agent signing, Dre Bly, to form the division's second best corner duo. However, shaky management and lack of a defensive mindset may steer Woodson elsewhere. Teams like Pittsburgh and Kansas City would be ideal as they are already winners, a player or two away from being serious Super Bowl contenders. With Herm Edwards finally going to KC, both teams have defensive minded coaches who play a physical style. However, Cleveland and New England seem the best fits for Woodson. A native of Ohio, a return to his home state would give him the opportunity to work with Romeo Crennel, and to be the main fixture on a young, up and coming team. In addition, a team like the Browns is likely to be willing to over pay for Woodson, despite his injuries. If Woodson can sacrifice an immediate payday, then New England makes the most sense. Bill Belichik has a history of taking chances on players who wore out their welcome elsewhere (see: Corey Dillon, David Terrell, Rodney Harrison). Not all have worked out, but a player's personal history has never been a deterrant. After a hard fought season that saw the loss of numerous defensive players to injury, a physical corner like Woodson would fit in nicely in New England, and help return the Patriots to the top of the AFC.

2. Nate Clements, BUFF [102 tackles, 2 INT]

Clements has always been a good fit in Buffalo, and this season he did a solid job replacing Antoine Winfield as the team's primary corner. The 2 interceptions are not indicative of Clements' cover ability, as his 102 tackles reflect the amount of time he spent bringing down ball carriers who slipped through the pourous Buffalo run defense. Bigger than one might think, Clements was a very physical presence, forcing three fumbles, while remaining a ball hawk in the secondary, defending 13 passes.

Yet, for all of his statistical accomplishments, Clements failed to show the flare and athletic superiority of the game's elite corners. That, however, hasn't stopped him and his agent from seeking to make Clements the NFL's highest paid corner. Although it is highly unlikely he will be paid more than the current leader in salary, Champ Bailey, it is guaranteed that his asking price will take him out of Buffalo. An above average defender, and only 26 years old, Clements would be a tremendous loss to the Bills. However, numbers like 50-60 million dollars will be too much for a team that is more than a player away from solving their problems. Look for Clements to bolt to the highest bidder, with little regard for intangibles such as a winning team or a defensive system that plays to his strengths (see: Duane Starks, Arizona).

GOOD FITS: Cleveland, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Arizona, New York Jets, St Louis

EARLY PICK: A lot of familiar names pop up, and that is to be expected. However, Clements, while younger and healthier than Woodson, will also be pricier. Teams like Cincy and Cleveland will most likely be the first to contact the Ohio native and former Buckeye, with Cincy bowing out for lack of need and cap room. The Jets will be reluctant to overpay when they have so many other holes to fill, while Arizona is stil reeling from the last free agent they signed to play cornerback. In the end, it will come down to whether or not Buffalo franchises Clements. If they do, they are likely to have a locker room cancer for the entire year. Assuming they are scared off by that prospect, expect teams like St Louis, Houston and Pittsburgh to get into a bidding war for his services.

3. Adam Archuleta, St Louis [70 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 1 INT]

For years Archuleta has been known as a workout freak, but for all of his physical gifts, he has failed to become the dominant player many envisioned when he was a first round pick in 2001. At 223 lbs, with excellent speed, Archuleta was at his best in Lovie Smith's scheme, focusing more on attacking the ball, and less on maintaining his positioning. Under new Def Coordinator Joe Vitt, more focus was put on the zone, and Archuleta was left in open space while less talented players attempted to make plays across the field. Archuleta needs the ability to freelance, and a change of scenery would do him so good. The only real worry is that his aggressive style will get him into injury trouble, a problem that struck at the end of 2005 when he sat out the final game with a concussion. However, that fear should be assuaged by the knowledge that Archuleta is a true warrior, and plays to the maximum of his ability at all times. There is little risk he will coast through a long term contract like so many players before him.

GOOD FITS: Chicago, Minnesota, Cleveland, Oakland, Arizona, NY Giants

EARLY PICK: Cleveland and Arizona are going to be in on every blue chip free agent, as they are so far under the cap. However, Archuleta is likely to look for two things: (a) a good system, and (b) a winner. While Minnesota would be a good fit with their questions as to whether or not Corey Chavous and Brian Williams will be back, I like Chicago as a sleeper to get Archuleta at a slight discount. When Mike Brown and Chris Harris went down late in the year, backups Mike Green and Todd Johnson were exposed for their limitations. While Harris was a revelation as a rookie, the chance to upgrade with Archuleta would be too much to pass up. A former Lovie Smith disciple, Archuleta is a smaller version of Urlacher who would team with the Defensive Player of the Year to send more than one ball carrier to the IR next season.

"The very existence of flamethrowers proves that some time, somewhere, someone said to themselves, "You know, I want to set those people over there on fire, but I'm just not close enough to get the job done.""  R.I.P George.