Some comments on the comments on the last page:.
1. Regardless of where you come down on whether McCourty is better than Thomas, worse than Thomas or close to Thomas, what I can't understand is the absolute certainty people place in their reasoning. Sorry but it just so difficult to compare players, especially when they play in such radically different systems and styles.
So while trying to put together a ranking of individual players, who play in such a team oriented game; is pretty much an exercise in futility. It has some entertainment value, and God knows we are going to need some entertainment in the next few weeks.
. Its just I find it kind of ludicrous that people would fight so hard for a position that has about as much value as a pre-season power ranking.
2. I also don't understand why people want to label McCourty exclusively as a FS. I have been preaching this for a while now, but I don't seem to have many converts. But when the Pats are in a 2 deep coverage, McCourty is just as likely to wide up on the strong side of the formation as the weak. It depends on how the offense aligns. BTW- I have no idea if Thomas switches position based on formation.
3. Another thing that makes it so difficult to compare the two is the fact that we see EVERY single snap that McCourty plays, while most of us only get to see highlights of Thomas' play, or a single game, now and again. No questioning Thoimas' ability, but no player is going to come off well when you dissecting every play, vs somebody's highlights
4. By EVERY account, from the media, his peers, and football professionals, Devin McCourty is a very good NFL Safety who is a big asset to his team. Whether he's the first, second, or third, etc best is kind of irrelevant when you think about it. I just know I'm glad he's on our team.