mesoslo
Third String But Playing on Special Teams
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CLICK HERE to Register for a free account and login for a smoother ad-free experience. It's easy, and only takes a few moments.I'm sure BB/SP would be interested when he hits the market - with Free Agency coming before the draft they have a variety of options to consider before drafting - I originally thought they were looking at Sammy Morris as a Faulk replacement, but he's carved a different niche for himself. I liked Sproles as a draft prospect way back when, so I'd like him now too - but I'm also sure drafting a later round player would be less expensive and allow the Practice Squad option too.Instead of drafting a pass catching/3rd down running back, I wonder if Patriot would attempt to sign Darren Sproles. On "Patriots All Access" BB described Sproles similar to Leon Washington but faster. Sproles has proven that he can compete in the NFL and may not command a huge contract.
I wanted Felix Jones last year for the Faulk replacement....but now I'm thinking Maroney might end up being the Faulk replacement, and somebody else will be the every-down back that can run around and through people without suffering season-ending shoulder injuries.
Faulk is still a key player on the patriots, and Maroney not living up to the hype, would the patriots holding 2 2nd round picks, look to draft a small pass catching RB?
Javon Ringer, Michigan State, 5-9, will probally be a late 2nd round pick.
I expect Faulk back and productive in 2009, but your argument overlooks a key element - blitz pick-up.No need to be looking for a Faulk replacement at this time. And as I've said before, we don't have to have someone being developed (in the waiting), ready to step right in when that time arrives. Why not? Rookie RBs need very little developmental time compared to other positions, and can usually make an impact that same season. If by chance we draft a RB this draft, it won't be because Kevin is nearly done and we want his replacement now. It will be because that player has upside and represents value at that slot. Faulk isn't ready to retire, and as one of the team MVPs, he won't be cut either.
When that time arrives, focus on the quick-footed change-of-pace type RBs w/ excellent receiving skills. Maroney and Morris do not qualify.
Rookie RBs need very little developmental time compared to other positions, and can usually make an impact that same season.
Ian Johnson was doing plenty of blocking against TCU in their bowl game. He needs some work with his technique and reads, and he'll need to get stronger, but the potential I suspected looked more realistic after watching that game.
That's why I project him as a Third Down/Change of Pace Back and was watching to see if he showed any aptitude (using Kevin Faulk as the standard for comparison). I don't see him as the next Brian Westbrook, but I think his hands are soft enough as a receiver out of the backfield, his heart isn't in doubt, and he's shown this year that he's got the team first mentality to play wherever and howsoever the coaches want to use him - Returner, Change of Pace Back, Waterboy, I think this kid will be there Rd 5 or later and is worth a flyer (I'm projecting him to clear waivers and camp on the Practice Squad until Faulk retires).I love the underdog types, but I suspect Johnson is going to find himself too limited athletically to be an NFL RB. He could be a dynamite Special Teams player, though.
count me in the maroney-replaces-faulk group...
i think w/ a little work, maroney will be ready for the role in 2-3 years
Maroney will take care of himself. Faulk is still playing well, and doesn't have the mileage of a feature back, so he should be good for the rest of his contract and maybe longer, God willing. I just like the idea of obtaining late round/UDFA backs who have similar tools and letting them work on their blitz pick-up and receiving skills. Of course Johnson could also make a fine Gunner/Outside Contain man, I also think he might be a good understudy to Welker as a PR, and he's already worked as a KR.Would that be after his contract ends at the end of the 2010 season?
Maroney has two years left on his contract. The team will find a role for him. For example, I would like to see him returning kicks, and perhaps even punts.
Would that be after his contract ends at the end of the 2010 season?
Maroney has two years left on his contract. The team will find a role for him. For example, I would like to see him returning kicks, and perhaps even punts.