50 replies to this topic

[Connecticut Eagle]

I always like a good discussion about adding and keeping talent.  Priorities, tactics, player evaluation, etc.

Here is BigEd's thread showing how long our current players are signed. http://boards.philad...d-updated-9712/

Here is who is slated to leave after this season:

Unrestricted: Rodgers-Cromartie, Dunlap, Jordan, Tapp, Dorenbos, Landri
Restricted: Anderson, Hughes

From a position perspective, it looks like QB (especially after the Browns game), LT, LB and S are ripe for discussion.  Although, because the front office was very aggressive in addressing LB and not S this past offseason, we may not be as desparate at safety as this MB would like to believe.

Regarding the names above, DRC, Dorenbos and Landri seem like immediate concerns - with DRC at a level all his own.

[evilwaldo]

I think they keep DRC but the real question is who will be the coach?

[achdumeingute]

I have to think we will do what is necessary to keep DRC.

Jordan should return.  He is versatile LB who can fill in (I realize he is the "starter") and is an OUTSTANDING special teamer.

Jury is out on Allen.  Coleman isn't dogbleep out there, its been much worse.

OT is paramount. We need real youth and talent at that position.

[EaglesCB37]

I see the Eagles keeping DRC, Dunlap, Dorenbos, Landri, Anderson, and Hughes. Tapp will likely leave as he can get much more snaps on other teams and they will likely offer him more money. Jordan's time here is up IMO because I believe the Eagles will either go for a new WILL or try out Rolle and Chaney again. Keeping DRC is kind of obvious (unless he ends up sucking the remaining 15 games), Dunlap has proven he is worth keeping, Dorenbos is kind of obvious, Landri's stay here is dependent on whether Patterson makes a comeback or not. If he leaves I see Landri becoming the starter, but if Patterson comes back Landri's job here could be in question (only because other teams may be offering more money for him to start). Anderson is an important STer and unless his injury really kills his althleticism, I see him staying, and Hughes is a good CB in case of emergency.

I haven't seen a list of 2013 FAs so I'm not readily sure who may be available, but the two positions that really need to be watched this offseason are OT and LB. If Peters comes back and appears at least most of his old self, good, we're fine there, if not the Eagles could look to Dunlap, FA, or the draft. At LB, Ryans seems to be a strong force, Kendricks is doing great, so no matter where he is put in 2013 (I think he could fit either WILL or SAM depending on who the Eagles bring in) it looks like the Eagles will either have to go with one of their own (Rolle, Chaney...) or find someone in FA or the draft.

[Rodney_Zero]

evilwaldo, on 10 September 2012 - 08:55 PM, said:

but the real question is who will be the coach?

Todd Haley

[evilwaldo]

I am hoping for Cowher.  

Snag an OT in the draft as well.

[Connecticut Eagle]

EaglesCB37, on 11 September 2012 - 12:14 PM, said:

I see the Eagles keeping DRC, Dunlap, Dorenbos, Landri, Anderson, and Hughes. Tapp will likely leave as he can get much more snaps on other teams and they will likely offer him more money. Jordan's time here is up IMO because I believe the Eagles will either go for a new WILL or try out Rolle and Chaney again. Keeping DRC is kind of obvious (unless he ends up sucking the remaining 15 games), Dunlap has proven he is worth keeping, Dorenbos is kind of obvious, Landri's stay here is dependent on whether Patterson makes a comeback or not. If he leaves I see Landri becoming the starter, but if Patterson comes back Landri's job here could be in question (only because other teams may be offering more money for him to start). Anderson is an important STer and unless his injury really kills his althleticism, I see him staying, and Hughes is a good CB in case of emergency.

I haven't seen a list of 2013 FAs so I'm not readily sure who may be available, but the two positions that really need to be watched this offseason are OT and LB. If Peters comes back and appears at least most of his old self, good, we're fine there, if not the Eagles could look to Dunlap, FA, or the draft. At LB, Ryans seems to be a strong force, Kendricks is doing great, so no matter where he is put in 2013 (I think he could fit either WILL or SAM depending on who the Eagles bring in) it looks like the Eagles will either have to go with one of their own (Rolle, Chaney...) or find someone in FA or the draft.

DRC, Dorenbos, and Landri are no-brainers.  Anderson is an inexpensive luxury as long as the other backup safety is competent.

OT depends alot on Peters' outlook.  Hopefully they will have a good sense of where he is before the draft next April.  Even if he is coming back, there isn't a backup I trust other than Kelley - and that's a stretch.  OL in general needs some attention.

I agree that we should go after another linebacker in the draft.  No need to settle on Jordan - who is servicable.

Optimistically, as long as Vick doesn't make QB a glaring need,  I'd like to go after a top WR and challenge Avant.

[evilwaldo]

The Oline has gotten worse since Runyan and Thomas left the team.  Peters is good but I worry about injuries regarding the feet to Olineman even if it is Achillies.  Nothing wrong with drafting an OT early to develop in the event of an injury unless there is a stud TE in the first round.

I would bring back Dorenbos, Landri, and DRC.  Meh to the rest.

[Couch Potato]

I like how we finally addressed LB with a meaningful pick last April. It's early days, but Kendricks looks like being just what the doctor ordered.

We should target another LB in R2 next year, the position would then be completely overhauled and become one of strength rather than weakness. I like Jordan, but he's of most value to us as a versatile back-up/core special teamer.

[Connecticut Eagle]

Couch Potato, on 16 September 2012 - 05:55 AM, said:

I like how we finally addressed LB with a meaningful pick last April. It's early days, but Kendricks looks like being just what the doctor ordered.

We should target another LB in R2 next year, the position would then be completely overhauled and become one of strength rather than weakness. I like Jordan, but he's of most value to us as a versatile back-up/core special teamer.

I have two minds on LB next year.  It's pretty obvious that our WILL takes fewer snaps than our Nickel CB.  So investing a high pick on a non-priority position doens't make much sense.  However, adding a high quality LB to be WILL **AND** our primary backup for SAM and MIKE would make alot of sense.

That being said, right now, O-Line is the biggest concern going forward.  We have no idea what Peters and Kelce will be capable of next season.

[Couch Potato]

Connecticut Eagle, on 18 September 2012 - 10:21 AM, said:

I have two minds on LB next year.  It's pretty obvious that our WILL takes fewer snaps than our Nickel CB.  So investing a high pick on a non-priority position doens't make much sense.  However, adding a high quality LB to be WILL **AND** our primary backup for SAM and MIKE would make alot of sense.......

Yes, that's exactly what I had in mind (though you expressed it much better than I did!).

If anything happens to Ryans or Kendricks we are halfway back to square one. To hit upon Kendricks 2.0 in next year's draft is probably asking too much, but I'd sure like us to try. We have enough bargain basement LB's already.

[evilwaldo]

Connecticut Eagle, on 18 September 2012 - 10:21 AM, said:

I have two minds on LB next year.  It's pretty obvious that our WILL takes fewer snaps than our Nickel CB.  So investing a high pick on a non-priority position doens't make much sense.  However, adding a high quality LB to be WILL **AND** our primary backup for SAM and MIKE would make alot of sense.

That being said, right now, O-Line is the biggest concern going forward.  We have no idea what Peters and Kelce will be capable of next season.

That has been my take for years now on the LB position and the reason why the Eagles invest more in the Nickel CB position than LB.  It does not make sense to invest starting $$'s in a position that may see the field one down a series.

[nicks]

A  BIG receiver-enough of these midgets who are constantly hurt.

[NWMontana]

Release our LCB......  Draft  Jonathan Banks CB  6'2" 187   Resign DRC
Alex Hurst OT  6'6" 332   draft
Kenny Tate  OLB  6'4" 224  draft

I feel thats a good start.....  

[joruz]

2013 draft needs

LT, C, G, QB(2nd or 3rd), S, WLB, LB(versatile), RCB(competition for Nnamdi in particular)

[joruz]

evilwaldo, on 10 September 2012 - 08:55 PM, said:

I think they keep DRC but the real question is who will be the coach?

Gary Patterson, TCU
Chris Peterseon, Boise State
David Shaw, Stanford
maybe Mark Richt, Georgia
maybe Mike Gundy, Oklahoma State University

[evilwaldo]

joruz, on 29 September 2012 - 11:34 AM, said:

Gary Patterson, TCU
Chris Peterseon, Boise State
David Shaw, Stanford
maybe Mark Richt, Georgia
maybe Mike Gundy, Oklahoma State University

Nope on all counts.

[Connecticut Eagle]

Looks like we're going to have to go safety again early in the draft.

The status of Peters' and Kelce's recoveries will have a big impact on the draft as well.

Right now, I am thinking OL (maybe), S, and WR.

[BigEFly]

Next year is another deep year for CBs.  I expect a CB pick is likely and possibly high if DRC does not resign.

I expect them to go OL heavy.  Eugene will probably take over for Mudd next year so he may need some additional building blocks.  I expect both OT and G, with a possible swing to G/C.

I anticipate given the depth of the S class that they will select at least one, maybe two.  Probably 2nd, early third day picks.

If Big Mike is finished, I could see them grabbing a DT early, although I think they like Thornton.

Maybe a WIL but that depends on how Chaney performs.

Could grab a LS but that may be a UFA.  Dorenbos will probably see a challenge.  Hopefully someone that can swing at another position in an emergency.

BPA might land a WR or even a TE.

Depending on how Edwards progresses and the draft lands, I could see them grabbing a QB.  For example, if Wilson is there in the second because he slipped due to Arkansas' early play and his injury, might AR grab him?  Yes.

Wild card is how the current 2013 FAs for the Eagles are approached, any late season injuries and how the Eagles play in free agency next year.

[Rob331]

Some of the prior posts have been overcome by event. It's now after week 4 and we've beaten both the Ravens and the Giants. Yeah- I  know - the Cardinals loss was an ugly one.

The Eagles have more cap money available than any other team in the NFL. Watch for them to re-sign DRC and Maclin during the season. the rest of free agency and the draft really depends on the status of Patterson, Peters, and Cromartie.

Let's take offensive tackle. If Peters fully recovers then we're in pretty good shape and don't need a FA or a #1 draft pick. We will need a solid backup. King is a more than adequate backup.He's a free agent, but he was last year too and wasn't signed by anyone. If he plays well for the rest of this year that will change. Bell is a one year guy - look at his contract and you just know that. Free agency is rich at tackle - Long (Mia), Clady (Den), Brown (Hou), bushrod (NO) and Vollmer (NE) are FA's so if Peters doens't recover look for the Eagles to sign one of them. My guess - Peters is the 2013 starter, Dunlap and Bell go elsewhere, and we use a 2nd day pick on a tackle.

At DT we'll have one too many if Patterson makes a full recovery. Since that's a realistic outlook look for Landri to be allowed to move on. Jenkins, Cox, Patterson, and Hargrove is a fine set of tackles. I don't think Landri would cost too much so I don't think a high draft pick is in the cards at DT.

After week 4 DRC has played very well. We don't miss Assante at all and i expect him to be re-signed. If he isn't and we go the free agent route there isn't much there - Grimes (ATL) Smith (Mia) and McCourty (Ten). Bottom line - if we dont' re-sign DRC it's a #1 or a #2 draft pick.

We still need another starting linebacker. Jordan and Chaney aren't super bowl caliber linebackers. First or second day pick.
I agree - Tapp won't be back - he can get starter money and we have Vinnie Curry waiting in the wings. A mid-round draft pick will replace Tapp on the roster.
It will be interesting to see if anyone tries to sign Hughes.  If he goes ok - he's replacable.

So here's my prediction - Patterson and Peters come back healthy. DRC, Dorenbos, Hughes, and Anderson all get re-signed. Tapp and jordan move on.

Our draft - trade our #1 for a 2 and a 3
Round 2 - LB, Chase Thomas - Stanford - replaces Jordan
Round 2 - CB, Desmond Trufant - Washington - replaces Hughes
Round 3 - S, Kenny Vaccaro - Texas - Replaces Sims
Round 3 - OT, Brennan Williams - North Carolina - replaces Dunlap
Round 4 - C, Graham Pocic - Oklahoma - replaces steve Vallos
Round 5 - ILB Patrick Larrimore - UCLA - replaces Chaney or Mathews

[NWMontana]

With Nnamdi due 15M.....  Even if he takes a huge paycut we will need a star acrocc from DRC ( who will be re-signed )

David Amerson CB  6'3" 194   Excells at man coverage and can also play S......   NC State

Now,  Iam in the belief that Jason Peters will return.  So Iam not forcing an OT too early.  Maclin may stay, however I want a tall long armed threat.

Marquess Wilson  6'4" 186 Gives us that guy....

Now Iam looking for a WILL

Jelani Jenkins  OLB  6'0"  238    A machine.

Now I look for  OL/S/LB/P

[evilwaldo]

Depth on the Oline has to be a concern.  Even if Peters returns I want a solid backup behind him, not another Dunlap or Bell.  Todd is not getting any younger as well.

The Oline lost a lot when Tra and Runyan left.

Oline absolutely has to be a first round pick.  

If one of the new generation of TE's pops up I would like to grab one early.  Harbor and Celek are nice but not top tier TE's.

Other than that I am pretty happy with the roster as constructed.  The biggest question is the coach.

[NWMontana]

Wish I had a better handle on FA.....OLmen

[The Eagles win!]

Keep DRC, Landri, and the Magician.

I'd like to keep Tapp in a perfect world, but with Curry in the wings it makes sense to save the money and let the kid get some reps.

I'd be mildly interested in Dunlap, depending on the price.  If nothing else, he's a serviceable backup.

Primary Draft Needs:

OT - Peters and Herremans are both old.  We MUST get a legit prospect in the pipelines.  First or second round pick.

OG - Mathis is old.  Again, need a legit prospect in the pipeline. Top 100 pick.

Secondary Draft Needs:

DT - Jenkins is old.  Patterson is old and his future is in question.  If there is a good prospect available, I'd pounce.

SS - I like Coleman.  I really do.  But he would be so much better as a key role player than as a starter.

LB - Two spots down, one to go.  A good WLB would really solidify this defense.

Draft Wants:

WR - I really would like to see the Eagles get a big, raw, high upside uber-athlete in the Stephen Hill.

TE - Kind of interchangeable with WR.  I'd love to get some 6'5" 250 pound guy who can run and jump.

Some names I want to keep an eye on:

OT - Brian Winters - 6'5" 310 Kent State
OT - Reid Fragel - 6'8" 310 Ohio State
OT -Terran Armstead - 6'5" 310 Arkansas-Pine Buff

OG - Jonathan Cooper - 6'3" 295 North Carolina
OG - Earl Watford - 6'4" 295 James Madison

DT - Jesse Williams - 6'4" 320 Alabama
DT - Sheldon Richardson - 6'4" 295 Missouri
DT - Rob Lohr - 6'4" 290 Vanderbilt

[Connecticut Eagle]

evilwaldo, on 03 October 2012 - 11:34 AM, said:

Depth on the Oline has to be a concern.  Even if Peters returns I want a solid backup behind him, not another Dunlap or Bell.  Todd is not getting any younger as well.

The Oline lost a lot when Tra and Runyan left.

Oline absolutely has to be a first round pick.  

The Eagles win!, on 03 October 2012 - 03:52 PM, said:

Primary Draft Needs:

OT - Peters and Herremans are both old.  We MUST get a legit prospect in the pipelines.  First or second round pick.

OG - Mathis is old.  Again, need a legit prospect in the pipeline. Top 100 pick.

So, assuming Peters returns, you both are still willing to invest a very late first round pick on an OT that may not play at all?  I agree with the importance of OT and would hate not to have an adequate backup, but is this the right approach?

Many teams draft their OT of the future and park him at OG for a while.  Would you replace Mathis with this first round OT?

What about Kelly?  If Mudd vouches for his readiness to be a competant back up next year, would you feel comfortable?

Just asking...

[evilwaldo]

Connecticut Eagle, on 04 October 2012 - 12:36 AM, said:

So, assuming Peters returns, you both are still willing to invest a very late first round pick on an OT that may not play at all?  I agree with the importance of OT and would hate not to have an adequate backup, but is this the right approach?

Many teams draft their OT of the future and park him at OG for a while.  Would you replace Mathis with this first round OT?

What about Kelly?  If Mudd vouches for his readiness to be a competant back up next year, would you feel comfortable?

Just asking...

I want someone ready to step in if Peters goes down again or if something happens to Todd.  If the guy is ready to play we could move Todd back inside.

We cannot afford to have a revolving door at OT anymore.

[NWMontana]

At this point in the season I would like to see added via draft....

Taylor Lewan  OT  6'7' 314 Michigan Can play both sides....  

Joseph Fauria TE  6'7" 258 UCLA   Yea , a stud TE....    The value will be there over WR

Jonathan Brown  OLB  6'1" 238 IL Instinctive sideline to sideline machine who can cover also.

[MERK]

evilwaldo, on 04 October 2012 - 12:58 AM, said:

I want someone ready to step in if Peters goes down again or if something happens to Todd.  If the guy is ready to play we could move Todd back inside.

We cannot afford to have a revolving door at OT anymore.

Every team wants depth but if Peters comes back healthy, OT is not a huge priority right now. There are much more pressing needs. Let them re-sign Dunlap to a one year deal and then worry about it.  Besides you say move Herremans back to OG, for who? They just signed Mathis to a multi year deal and just spend a 1st on Watkins.

[The Eagles win!]

Connecticut Eagle, on 04 October 2012 - 12:36 AM, said:

So, assuming Peters returns, you both are still willing to invest a very late first round pick on an OT that may not play at all?  I agree with the importance of OT and would hate not to have an adequate backup, but is this the right approach?

Many teams draft their OT of the future and park him at OG for a while.  Would you replace Mathis with this first round OT?

What about Kelly?  If Mudd vouches for his readiness to be a competant back up next year, would you feel comfortable?

Just asking...

Here is my thinking... both Peters and Herremans are old.  On top of that, Mathis is old.  So that's 3/5 spots that could become an urgent need very quickly.

OT just isn't a position you F around with.  We're finding that out the hard way now.  I'll even take it a step farther - I'd be perfectly happy to trade up into the top 15 if the right guy is available.  I think it's THAT important.  Other than QB, nothing comes close.

[evilwaldo]

The Eagles win!, on 08 October 2012 - 10:44 PM, said:

Here is my thinking... both Peters and Herremans are old.  On top of that, Mathis is old.  So that's 3/5 spots that could become an urgent need very quickly.

OT just isn't a position you F around with.  We're finding that out the hard way now.  I'll even take it a step farther - I'd be perfectly happy to trade up into the top 15 if the right guy is available.  I think it's THAT important.  Other than QB, nothing comes close.

Agree 100%.  We really need to shore up the line with some solid depth.  Dunlap is nice but he has been in the league long enough now where we know what we will get.  I would rather see a young player with upside than Dunlap back next season.