A few comments on the comments of the last few pages.
1. I think it was Nunchucks who made a very insight comment (BTW an insightful comment is often equal to one I agree with. ) He stated that the Pats didn't NEED a move TE, they LACKED one. I think this is an important distinction and one that should temper the expectations of fans about Tim Wright.
2. I see Wright as being a player who now creates more formation flexibility for Josh, and several more options for him down on the GL. But that's all. I have few expectations for him over the next month or so. For me, I'd be happy with 30 catches THIS year as long as 5 of those are for TD's
3. My biggest fear is having to deal with the mediots who will all be on "I told you so mode" the first time Brady is sacked, and every time he's sacked. They will instantly forget that Brady was sacked 40 times last season, and Mankins was supposedly responsible for about a quarter of them.
4. The opportunity to get a developmental move TE who has the kind of potential and proven production on the cheap for the next 3 season, combined with the elimination of big cap number from a player wasn't play up to it. (BTW- in fairness its almost impossible for a player to play up to the cap numbers some of these back end loaded contracts create) And I would hope the development of Devey, Kline, and the 3 draft picks were also part of that equation.
5. So here are my predictions (hopes) for this season. Mankins will have another solid year for the Bucs, and they will be very happy with him. Wright will catch at least 30 passes and have 5 TD. And most importantly, Brady will be sacked less than 30 times this season.
6. Like all the trades of this kind, it carries a certain level of risk and reward along with a ton of emotional baggage and regret. It should be clear to one and all that THIS day was coming for Logan Mankins because of a combination of his cap number, his unwillingness to restructure, and the fact he was no longer playing at an elite level. What is surprising is that it happened this soon and this suddenly at the end of TC.
I look forward to revisiting this this thread in the dog days of the next off season to see how it all turns out.