Requesting your input on Dan Connolly

[Miguel]

I am going to use this

http://espn.go.com/blog/cincinnati-...5/bengals-jason-campbell-free-agent-breakdown as a template to look at the 15 free agents that the Patriots.

Would like the best reasons
for why the Pats will re-sign Dan Connolly
for why the Pats will not resign him

Of course, I will credit you unless you state that you wish to remain anonymous.

 

[chasa]

Why they wont:
Age
Concussion history
retirement

Why they will:
Versatility
Low cost
Connolly is a Team guy
Doubtful other teams will offer him more then league minimum

 

[Miguel]

A description of the player's 2014 role would also be really helpful. Sorry for not mentioning that sooner.

 

[Fencer]

Role: Elite kick returner

Why re-sign:

Has played well (even got an All-Pro vote).
Captain/leader of an OL line that has been shaky.
Interior OL depth has been very problematic this season.
Likely won't be all that expensive, due to the reasons for not re-signing.

Why not re-sign:

Age and injury history
OL wasn't that good when he was at center

 

[mgteich]

Role: Elite kick returner

Why re-sign:

Has played well (even got an All-Pro vote).
Captain/leader of an OL line that has been shaky.
Interior OL depth has been very problematic this season.
Likely won't be all that expensive, due to the reasons for not re-signing.

Why not re-sign:

Age and injury history
OL wasn't that good when he was at center

I agree with all comments except I don't think that it is relevant that the OL didn't do as well when Connolly was center. We have Stork and Wendell as centers. Connolly would be the 3rd center, and is probably one of the best in the league in that role.

IMHO, there is NO reason not to re-sign Connolly. Even if we were to go out and sign a top LG (no happening), Connolly would be valuable as a backup.