ESPN's Matt Williamson lists Bodden as the top hidden gem of free agency

[Rob0729]

From his column:

1. Leigh Bodden, CB, New England
Bodden is a well-built corner who has had success at this level. Despite not getting much publicity for his play in 2009, he had a very strong season for the pass-rushing-starved Patriots. That isn't to imply that he is a No. 1 cornerback, but any team in the league should be happy with him as a starter opposite its best guy. He is physical, plays the run well and is effective playing several coverage variations.

NFL: Scouts Inc. identifies the hidden gems of the 2010 free-agent class - ESPN

 

[JSn]

Top hidden gem if you're looking for a number two is what he seems to be implying. So... is that realistic? Is he best suited as a deadly awesome #2?

Might help set his market value. I still hope we keep him.

 

[bradyforlife]

Top hidden gem if you're looking for a number two is what he seems to be implying. So... is that realistic? Is he best suited as a deadly awesome #2?

Might help set his market value. I still hope we keep him.

I agree. Me too.

 

[Rob0729]

Top hidden gem if you're looking for a number two is what he seems to be implying. So... is that realistic? Is he best suited as a deadly awesome #2?

Might help set his market value. I still hope we keep him.

I don't think the Pats will have a problem paying him top #2 CB money. If he is looking for good to top #1 CB money, there might be a problem.

 

[VOODOOZF]

I don't think the Pats will have a problem paying him top #2 CB money. If he is looking for good to top #1 CB money, there might be a problem.

I have a bad feeling the Patriots will not pay him the money and he will walk. I thought he did a solid job last year.

 

[MoLewisrocks]

I have a bad feeling the Patriots will not pay him the money and he will walk. I thought he did a solid job last year.

Everyone assumed that after he left here without a contract last year and didn't resurface for a month... I think teams know what he is even if fans here don't. May someone overpay for an above average #2 ceiling, perhaps, but the money isn't going to be flying around this year like it was for the last couple of seasons so maybe not. Heading into a lockout season it's all going to be about guarantees and the likihood you play for that team following a lockout thereby having a shot at the bulk of your contract - as opposed to finding yourself a cap cut again in a potentially crowded field. Here his chances of playing for 3-4 seasons are just a little better. Starting over yet again for potentially one season and a potentially extended period without football before returning to the field is more of a crap shoot for the player and his alternate suitors.

 

[JMarr]

"That isn't to imply that he is a No. 1 cornerback, but any team in the league should be happy with him as a starter opposite its best guy."



The is no such thing as a #1 or #2 CB in this league. Trust me, these terms are completely meaningless, except when they come from the mouths of agents and mediots that need to fill copy.

Sure, any team would be happy to have Bodden at one Corner position. The only relevant question is, at what price?

Absolutely worthless article. Don't bother giving ESPN the hit.

 

[signbabybrady]

By letting Bodden walk we would be letting our best CB leave for the third straight year.
Samuel
Hobbs
Bodden

I hope we keep him. I don't think he is amazing but he was our best and I don't see opening up another hole as a good thing. And who knows maybe he could look amazing with a better pass rush.

lastly there is a lot of youth at the position (Whilhite, Wheatley, and Butler) so I am not sure drafting another is the answer which means if we let him walk we likely be in the market for a FA corner and show me someone better or close to as good that you will be getting cheap and than I will say let him walk. Until then this is as important a FA as we have now that Vince is tagged.

 

[Rob0729]

I have a bad feeling the Patriots will not pay him the money and he will walk. I thought he did a solid job last year.

Personally, I think he resigns here. The Pats probably don't have the cap room to give him a new deal until Friday.