1.) Warren was a top 3 overall pick, who's played far more snaps than Green, and has been in a 1-gap system most of his career, so I don't understand why you would think that an apt comparison.
2.) I didn't call him old.
3.) His best year was his rookie season, and he's been lousy enough for most of his career that 3 different teams that were absolutely desperate for D-line help have given up on him.
4.) He's now coming to a system that highlights his biggest weaknesses.
Could he turn it around and finally 'get it' in New England? Anything's possible. I wouldn't count on it, though.
I'll agree that a comparison to Green isn't the greatest example, if you have another player in mind off hand, that is fine too. My comparison to Green is because that's the player we lost, and who some are expecting to replace numbers wise. They both have played approx. the same number of years also, and are the same age within 4-5 months, so while it's not the greatest comparison, it's not the worst either.
No, you didn't say he was old, but you did respond directly to my statement of "I'm not sure why some are seeing the signing as just another older vet."
His rookie season wasn't necessarily his best, as 2003 he had more sacks, and 2 returned fumbles, but 01 was surely one of 2 good seasons--so that's arguable. 7 out of 9 seasons he has played in 15+ games, which symbolizes a player who doesn't miss much time, so that's a plus for a BB selected vet who can add reps.
Your #3 argument of having 3 different teams giving up on him isn't too hot, considering Randy Moss will likely have his 4th team come next yr, that doesn't really prove he can't offer anything.
I don't know that this system highlights any larger weakness, especially in a 4 man front in a limited role. If this particular system highlights his weakness, then I would think Belichick is responsible for assessing that theory. There are always different variables that come into play, such as the poor talent level surrounding him at times, the hotter starts to seasons that taper off--which shouldn't happen in a limited role. Personally, I think that any warm body that can provide a breather or depth in an injury situation should be looked at with limited expectations. My main point was about his age, that's why I referred to it in my original post. If he can fend off an O lineman for an extra second or two, all the better. He does have size, versatility and experience.
The bottom line is that I really don't care all that much, whether it be Damione Lewis or Gerard Warren--I likely would've stuck up for both, and tried to look at it in a positive way. If BB thinks either can contribute, then he must have some kind of reason. I don't think we're all that far off on our assessment of Warren, although I may be giving him the benefit of the doubt, since many comments were about his age. If he can contribute fine, if not, there's not much lost. I think if he was a 3rd/4th rd pick, many may see the signing as just another guy for depth. Since it was a #3 overall, many figure that he sucks, that isn't fair IMO.
It'll remain a difference of opinion. While I think he may have something to offer, you don't seem to think so. I have been wrong numerous times before, and could very well be wrong with this too. Or I could refer to Belichick's assessment that he may have something to offer, which I am hopeful for.
