Its the last week before trade deadline. Pats usually make a move or two in both directions so it is reasonable to believe that they will at least be active on the market again. BB said himself yesterday that teams know Pats are always open for business.
Maybe instead of opening a new thread for every name someone wakes up with . we can have one thread that monitors and lists more realistic options. Instead of pure salivation and grass is greener “approach“ we should at least check the realm of availability and purchase (like taking a look at contracts, cap space etc.) and add at least some meat on the bone..
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Let me start with the name that is circling around lately . has some rationale . and addresses a position still seen as a need (at least in depth) by most fans - pass rusher..
NFL.com:
He missed all last season with a torn ACL, but he's bounced back this autumn with a pair of QB takedowns already. A surprise inactive this past Sunday, Kikaha has the feel of a player being shopped. NESN's Doug Kyed picked out New England as a potential trade partner, which makes plenty of sense for a team in need of pass-rushing help. It wouldn't cost much to acquire Kikaha, and Bill Belichick is one of the NFL's most active wheelers and dealers.
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PRO:
- Proved pass-rushing talent w impressive rookie season (stopped by continuous streak of injuries (ACL, knee)).
Draft take:
“Relentless. Bends the edge hard. Plays with his hand on the ground and stands up. Scheme versatile. Intelligent player. Kikaha led the nation in sacks. He gets to the quarterback in a variety of ways. His effort is outstanding. You're drafting him to get to the quarterback.
NFL COMPARISON: Rob Ninkovich“
- Had a good game vs NE in week 2
- Good relationship between NE and NO should make the trade easier if interest
CON:
- Pats already traded for an undersized pass rusher that has some issues containing the edge in Cassius Marsh - unlike him Kikaha is not used much on ST
- With McClellin coming back, extension to KVN (plus his improvement by the game) and going back to the use of High as OLB/MLB part-time pass rusher . in the end this might not be a position of need after all (w full-sized DE certainly more of a depth need)
- His injury history might be #1 reason for his possible availability and expected low price tag . still trading for depth should include more dependability given how banged up the team is already..
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More on his current status:
New Orleans Saints: Hau'oli Kikaha
Sorry BD: but I stopped reading right there... why would any NFL Team even with Blind GM Trade for Goose Eggs Galore Dwayne Allen??
