Why the draft is so important...

[PATRIOTS-80]

We build our team on the draft. The whole team is either drafted or JAGS at vet minimum. We did trade for Dillon, and sign Colvin and Harrison. But with those three exceptions, we didn't sign Redskin-type FA.

If we can get good solid players, especially out of our 4 first day picks, plus a surprise or 2 in the second day ... we are looking good.

But the key I think this off-season, won't really be expensive FA, but instead will be key extensions, re-signing what players we can, and going to the draft. With the exception of Adalius Thomas, there are no big-buck FA that I see BB going after. I see BB going for a few low-key FAs, and then building our team with the draft.

 

[p8ryts]

If he was willing to pay what Thomas will want we would be better off paying Samuels.

He might be the other cornerstone to go with Brady and Seymour, maybe, not convinced but if Beioli pays him we can be assured of his value.

 

[DarrylS]

We build our team on the draft. The whole team is either drafted or JAGS at vet minimum. We did trade for Dillon, and sign Colvin and Harrison. But with those three exceptions, we didn't sign Redskin-type FA.

If we can get good solid players, especially out of our 4 first day picks, plus a surprise or 2 in the second day ... we are looking good.

But the key I think this off-season, won't really be expensive FA, but instead will be key extensions, re-signing what players we can, and going to the draft. With the exception of Adalius Thomas, there are no big-buck FA that I see BB going after. I see BB going for a few low-key FAs, and then building our team with the draft.

Isn't this the Patriot way?? I also suspect that they may take care of Warren and possibly Wilfork, this seems to be the trend to lock up the guys in the trenches long term.

 

[fgssand]

If he was willing to pay what Thomas will want we would be better off paying Samuels.

He might be the other cornerstone to go with Brady and Seymour, maybe, not convinced but if Beioli pays him we can be assured of his value.

Excellent point - the value of Samuel to the Patiots will be known by whether or not BB/SP decide to show him the money.

Or, are they better off throwing those dollars at Thomas or Clement??

 

[Jimke]

In addition to replenishing talent, the draft is important for cost control.

The relatively high salaries of veteran players are offset by the low

salaries of players on their first (rookie) contracts. A team is in

a lot of trouble if they have a couple of bad drafts.