I understand the Green-Ellis is unlikey to go. But that isn't because he is such a stud. We need to realize that running backs don't develop over time, they just wear down (and perhaps try to get rid of acquired habits).
I have no obsession with Green-Ellis. He was the #5 RB last year on a team that didn't use him even when there are two injuries. Most of the analysts (and I think most posters)had us keeping four, excluding Green-Ellis. No, it you that was with the minority in your support of Green-Ellis.
For this season, Green-Ellis is part of a stable of running backs in their contract years. I look forward to almost a complete new set of running backs in 2011. Few are satisfied with Belichick's strategy, but it what it is. Running backs are brought in when they are needed, much like guards.
As someone who played the running back position for more than 10 years, running backs do develop. You get faster at reading holes, learn when to cut, technique in blocking, technique in running, learning more from film, getting stronger, faster, etc. Changing tendencies and getting rid of acquired habits is DEVELOPMENT. Yeah, we do wear down by the end of the season and gradually over time, but running backs do develop.
My stance on Green-Ellis is this: he's an verage NFL backup who runs hard and will often get that crucial extra yard. I'd call him an above average backup, but we see running backs get plugged into systems all the time and have success. If we had to rely on Green-Ellis to start a few games for us, we could expect about 15-20 carries and 65-75 yards from him with the occassional good or bad game, with an average of around 3.6-3.7 ypc. Serviceable, but not great.
I do feel we need help at the running back position. Taylor is already banged up, and Morris hasn't stayed healthy in years. Green-Ellis won't be winning us many games. Woodhead is not a viable option as an every-down back.
Like you, I'd also like to see us bring in another defensive player or two. Crable is seemingly healthy because I don't think BB would bring him back otherwise. He also won practice player of the week, which is no big deal, but an encouraging sign nonetheless.
I wouldn't mind us bringing in another cornerback either. I'm know I'm going to get smashed on this board for saying this, but why not Ty Law or Shawn Springs. We need a corner that is bigger and physical and can jam receivers at the goal line so that we don't get another Butler/Edwards fiasco. Maybe Meriweather can play some big-corner in goal line sets? Man, I wish we still had Leigh healthy.
