Re: NFL.com: Raiders agree to send WR Moss to Patriots
You missed Jabar Gaffney.
I don't see the ridiculous number of WR's as a problem. Take a look at it from this angle:
1. MOSS - will start
2. STALLWORTH - will start
3. WELKER - starting as your slot receiver
Here's where it gets interesting:
4. CALDWELL
5. JAFFNEY - more likely to be traded (see below)
Based on their salary numbers, they will each have trade value come pre-season / camp when other teams have injuries and need to fill in a 2nd - 4th receiver role. This is also when we trade one of these chips for a serviceable veteran LB or DB (who has seen NFL speed - unlike a rookie), to fill in and contribute.
Also, If teams are considering throwing a player to the waiver wire, they will consider calling New England before sending
such player to waivers. That just puts us at the top of the waiver wire IMO. Who has more flexibility right now than the Pats? IMO - nobody!
6. BROWN - somehow he makes the team or retires to become a coach. He can play teams, 3rd down, or in DB packages.
7. WASHINGTON - not really tradeable IMO, let's see if he can avoid injury in camp. Who knows, he might just get dropped for cap flexibility.
8, 9 and 10.) CHILDRESS/KIGHT/JACKSON(later in year)/ETC. - I think we will see a cut here, with Jackson starting on the PUP list.
To sum it up:
a.) they keep 6 on the active roster
b.) 1 or 2 get traded
c.) 1 or 2 get cut - and we gain cap room.
d.) the remainders come up with freak injuries and land on the PUP.
One more potential benefit from all of this...I see this as being a great for Chad Jackson. He will get to learn from some very good receivers who have a similar style to his. If things don't work out with Moss, I think he'll get the picture that you not only have to be talented, but that you have to work hard and be a team player if you want to stick around.
dave