So, ahem, what is the outlook for Safeties in this draft class?

[FredFromDartmouth]

Safety was not something I was looking at, but it may be time shift things around.

I suspect that the Patriots are scrambling right now because I doubt they targeted safety very seriously...

 

[ctpatsfan77]

I suspect that the Patriots are scrambling right now because I doubt they targeted safety very seriously...

Not so much, really.

 

[patchick]

I suspect that the Patriots are scrambling right now because I doubt they targeted safety very seriously...

You really think they haven't scouted the safety class? Especially with Meriweather & Sanders both in the last year of their contracts? I'm not concerned about that possibility at all. The real problem is that this safety class is dreadful. If any safety at all is drafted in the top 40 picks, it will be a reach based on need. Unless...

...you draft a great big corner instead. The athletes who would have been the elite safeties this year are all entering the draft as corners. I'll take Ras-I Dowling over most of the guys who call themselves safeties.

 

[Sciz]

It's a garbage class. Nobody worth a top-50 pick.

 

[Box_O_Rocks]

You really think they haven't scouted the safety class? Especially with Meriweather & Sanders both in the last year of their contracts? I'm not concerned about that possibility at all. The real problem is that this safety class is dreadful. If any safety at all is drafted in the top 40 picks, it will be a reach based on need. Unless...

...you draft a great big corner instead. The athletes who would have been the elite safeties this year are all entering the draft as corners. I'll take Ras-I Dowling over most of the guys who call themselves safeties.

Add Jalil Brown, but I do like Tyler Stash.

 

[ctpatsfan77]

Add Jalil Brown, but I do like Tyler Stash.

Freudian slip there, Box?

 

[Sciz]

Well, he was DJK's teammate :lol2:

 

[sbpatfan]

Don't worry, Ray Lewis got better after he was around a shooting. This is a good thing.

 

[patman52]

They "tagged" Page and i think he is going to be the future at the position.

 

[Tasco]

I'd love to pick up Weddle from the Chargers...what would he cost in terms of picks and money?

 

[Defsoul]

I'd love to pick up Weddle from the Chargers...what would he cost in terms of picks and money?

Weddle received a first round tender from the Chargers, but he will become a unrestricted free agent once a new CBA is finalized, since he's a four year veteran. In terms of money... From the San Diego Tribune:

It is likely, according to numerous people familiar with the market for a starting safety, that it will take a five- or six-year contract with an average value that exceeds $7 million a year with $15 million guaranteed to sign Weddle.

Weddle wants to stay, willing to leave - Kevin Acee | San Diego Tribune

 

[FredFromDartmouth]

How about larger CBs that could be converted to S?

 

[Defsoul]

How about larger CBs that could be converted to S?

Aaron Williams from Texas could be a candidate. Mike Mayock is struggling right now to decide if Williams is his 3rd ranked cornerback or his 1st ranked safety. From his Combine profile on NFL.com:

Aaron Williams
Height: 6'0"
Weight: 204 lbs.
Arm Length: 31 1/2 in.
Hand Size: 9 1/4 in.
College: Texas

Strengths:
Williams is a long corner with great closing speed. Well-prepared player that is always in sound position and quickly recognizes routes. Possesses excellent ball skills and has the hands to pluck the ball away from bigger receivers. Has quick feet to mirror slot receivers in man coverage. Willing tackler that consistently wraps.

Weaknesses:
Over aggressive at times making him vulnerable to play action and double moves. A bit stiff in the hips and will lose speed in transition in man coverage. Does not show a strong press at the line. Can take poor angles in run support and struggles breaking down ball carriers in the open field.

 

[FredFromDartmouth]

You really think they haven't scouted the safety class? .

Possibly but I suspect that they were more interested in pass rushers and OL'ers.

Remember that the Patriots only scout certain positions. As far as Safety they were probably targeting lower-round prospects.

 

[FredFromDartmouth]

Aaron Williams from Texas could be a candidate. Mike Mayock is struggling right now to decide if Williams is his 3rd ranked cornerback or his 1st ranked safety. From his Combine profile on NFL.com:

Hmmm...tackling is the number one skill needed to be a good safety....hmmm

 

[WaterfallJumper]

Possibly but I suspect that they were more interested in pass rushers and OL'ers.

Remember that the Patriots only scout certain positions. As far as Safety they were probably targeting lower-round prospects.

I think you're off your rocker.

Ras-I Dowling
Jalil Brown
Cortez Allen

All larger defensive backs who could make good centerfielders. If you're looking for a more traditional safety, I'd recommend Deunta Williams as an injury special, or Chris Prosinski as a late round gem.

 

[Defsoul]

Hmmm...tackling is the number one skill needed to be a good safety....hmmm

Well, he is a willing tackler who can take poor angles in run support. He's like Meriweather.

 

[NePatriots]

Well, he was DJK's teammate :lol2:

I know you are an Iowan, so I'm sure you know the truth about the Sash-quatch. Fantastic kid and athlete, great leader.

 

[Box_O_Rocks]

Freudian slip there, Box?

Their tea is pretty good. :snob:

 

[patchick]

Remember that the Patriots only scout certain positions.

Do you have a source for this statement? I've never heard anything of the kind.