Thoughts on Tedy Bruschi
 

I think we can all agree Tedy is aging slowly as seen a bit in his play, I still think he can be a factor in helping to slow the running game because he has always been a good tackler but don't think he will be able to keep up in terms of speed with some of the leagues premier TEs or quick short out passes anymore like he used to.

As a Patriots fan BUT a realistic point of view, how do you feel Tedy will be as a factor in this defense already short on LB depth?

Will he be:

A) A big factor

B) Kind of a decent LB still but nothing near as he was in his early years

C) A non factor and not matter much into our Defensive performance other than to make some good plays every so often?

Personally I think he will be a bit slower than in years past as can be expected but think he means as much as he ever did, especially when we need good LB play and he will do well.

Re: Thoughts on Tedy Bruschi
 

Adding Adalius Thomas is not only an upgrade because of his talent, but because he take some pressure of Bruschi and Vrable. These guys were forced into the position of doing different things the last couple seasons to make up for weakness in the defense. With Thomas there they can focus more on doing the things they do best.

Granted, Tedy isn't getting any younger, but the presence of Thomas can have a rejuvinating effect on his game. I expect him to be taking on blockers less and running to the ball more, and we will see more of the Tedy of '03-'04 than the Tedy of last year.

Re: Thoughts on Tedy Bruschi
 

I think the wrist injury had an impact as well. When he had Seau next to him, he looked okay. With Seau and Thomas, maybe Bruschi gets to rotate out a bit and won't get quite as worn down.

Re: Thoughts on Tedy Bruschi
 

Breer said on weei this week that Bruschi will go back to his normal weakside LB role and Thomas will play the bulk of strongside LB, like Johnson used to.

This allows Bruschi AND Vrabel to play at their more comfortable positions. Thomas can also bring a pass rush element from the middle, while also lining up outside and on the line.

With the flexibility in the front 7, and the flexibility that Merriweather brings to the secondary, this D should be exciting, and even better than last year.

Re: Thoughts on Tedy Bruschi
 

I think that his wisdom, gamesense and overall knowledge of the game will help compensate for his slowing down and diminishing of skills.. not to worry if he can't keep up he will know it.

Re: Thoughts on Tedy Bruschi
 

One of the greatest Patriots ever....

Re: Thoughts on Tedy Bruschi
 

I think the wrist injury was huge. He was looking like his old self in Training Camp last year (IMO) and appeared to be back to form.

After the wrist injury, he looked smaller and weaker (I'm sure it limited and weight training) and he wasn't as physical.

I would not be shocked if he stays healthy and plays up to his previous standards.

Re: Thoughts on Tedy Bruschi
 

I have to agree here. First of all I do not think he is slowing down as much as people like to think. I think many will be happily surprised at his performance this year. Secondly, in the past, a lot of Bruschi's big plays were partly being in the right place at the right time. He knows how to read offenses and where to put himself. Above all, he is a smart player with skills.

Re: Thoughts on Tedy Bruschi
 

DITTO ON THAT! You took the words right out of my mouth.

Re: Thoughts on Tedy Bruschi
 

Tedy is like "UNS UWE" (in Germany). i don`t like the calls b`c of the age.

Tedy was and is the heart and soul. i watched the Viks game this night. and the monday night "lady`s" called Tedy the man who give up the play maybe 30 sec. after the whistel, b`cause he is still talking to the enemy line / RB / FB.

TEDY and JUNIOR (when they r healthy) r the best run - stop maschine in the nfl. nuff said

greets from here