Thanks for the clarification, and if I did not understand the main point then apologies to patchick for not fully getting her thoughts.
My only stance in the whole discussion is that IF Talib is not resigned, they may be able to try and continue some of the same kind of aggressive man coverage scheme with another free agent who they may see as better value. There are still other parts in place (Dennard, Arrington at the star, McCourty and Gregory better safety play) where the team may feel that another "comparable" talent may be able to help them run the same kind of scheme.
The question is whether you believe that it's been the kind of player or the specific player that has allowed the other parts to play their effective positions. Last year most felt that it was the "kind" of player (halfway decent man coverage CB). This year most now feel that it is the "specific player" in Aqib Talib, and that no one else could possibly fill that role.
What the truth is I really don't know. I just stated a very basic point that has been brought up many times. I'm not wanting to let Talib walk, I'm just pointing out sometimes Belichick does not see things the same way as the fans do. Hopefully they are able to reach an agreement, but I also think that both sides are going to want to see what the market brings in free agency first before moving further.