PatsFan37
2nd Team Getting Their First Start
- Joined
- Sep 13, 2004
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Let's say Welker is out for a few games, as many as 6 or 8. How does the team adjust?
My take on a slot receiver's characteristics: accurate route runner, reads defenses in sync with QB, quick and fluid in his breaks, reliable hands, can get YAC. Does not need top-end speed or size.
First, how does Welker's injury change the active roster? Moss and Gaffney start. In a 3 WR set, Gaffney moves to the slot and Jackson plays outside. So who backs up Gaffney inside? Jackson with Washington outside? Maybe, but route running is questionable. Washington? Lacks quickness. Slater? He qualifies physically and is likely to make the roster, but lacks experience.
Second, how does Welker's injury change the 53? The two bubble players who could play slot are CJ Jones and Ventrone. My sense is that Jones has the hands and route running to play the slot, but I admit I don't know where he's been lining up. He also returns punts (even when he shouldn't!).
Ventrone has shown some nice spark and has great versatility, but would you trust him starting against the Colts? I would sooner trust Jones.
My feeling is, if you see the Pats keeping C.J.Jones, it's an indication that Welker could be out for a while.
My take on a slot receiver's characteristics: accurate route runner, reads defenses in sync with QB, quick and fluid in his breaks, reliable hands, can get YAC. Does not need top-end speed or size.
First, how does Welker's injury change the active roster? Moss and Gaffney start. In a 3 WR set, Gaffney moves to the slot and Jackson plays outside. So who backs up Gaffney inside? Jackson with Washington outside? Maybe, but route running is questionable. Washington? Lacks quickness. Slater? He qualifies physically and is likely to make the roster, but lacks experience.
Second, how does Welker's injury change the 53? The two bubble players who could play slot are CJ Jones and Ventrone. My sense is that Jones has the hands and route running to play the slot, but I admit I don't know where he's been lining up. He also returns punts (even when he shouldn't!).
Ventrone has shown some nice spark and has great versatility, but would you trust him starting against the Colts? I would sooner trust Jones.
My feeling is, if you see the Pats keeping C.J.Jones, it's an indication that Welker could be out for a while.