Cimini's New Blog 4/13

[SoFlaJets]

Let's get the pre-draft hype rolling

April 13, 2009

Remember me?

After a week off, I'm back in the blogging/newspaper business, looking forward to the most exciting time of the year: Draft time. We'll have our annual positional previews, leading right up to the draft - 12 days and counting. This year, there's a curve ball in the pre-draft hype - a non-mandatory minicamp, scheduled for Thursday to Saturday in Florham Park, N.J. Obviously, it'll be our first live glimpse of the much-anticipated QB competition.

First, some random thoughts and observations:

The Jets' pursuit of Cowboys WR Miles Austin, a restricted free agent, tells me two things: The organization isn't convinced that Brad Smith, Chansi Stuckey or David Clowney can be a front-line receiver. It also tells me the organization doesn't like the wide-receiver value with the 17th overall pick. Assuming Michael Crabtree and Jeremy Maclin are gone, the Jets probably will be looking at Darrius Heyward-Bey (a size-speed guy), Percy Harvin (durability and off-the-field issues) and Hakeem Nicks (suspect speed) - all projected as late-first or early-second round picks. Personally, I think surrendering a second-round pick for Austin would be a huge gamble, bordering on a gross miscalculation, but the Jets want a receiver and they evidently don't like what they see in the draft.

***

In case you're wondering, that second-round pick, packaged with the 17th pick, could get the Jets as high as 10th in the first round, according to the draft-pick value chart. At the risk of sounding like a radio call-in geek, I'm going to propose a trade: The Jets send their second-round pick (No. 52) and WR Brad Smith to the Browns for WR Braylon Edwards. Think about it: The Browns took a No. 2 and a No. 5 from the Bucs for TE Kellen Winslow. Smith is a former No. 4, so there's comparable value. Plus, Eric Mangini loves the guy.

Granted, Edwards has more value than Winslow, so the Browns might hold out for a No. 1, but I think there's enough there between the two teams to make a deal.

Thoughts?

***

Another QB bit the dust over the weekend, as Byron Leftwich signed with the Bucs. Right now, the top two free-agent QBs are J.P. Losman and Rex Grossman. Out of that duo, I'd say the Jets prefer Losman, but it's looking more and more like the Jets are going to stick with the current cast - unless they draft a QB. The Bucs could cut Brian Griese now that Leftwich is on board, but I wouldn't touch Griese with a 10-foot pole.

***

One thing some people are forgetting with these Leon Washington negotiations: The Jets don't have to do anything. Washington is under contract for 2009 and, unless there's a new CBA, he will be a restricted free agent (not unrestricted) in 2010. The rules of the game will change, absent a new labor agreement, and fourth-year guys like Washington and QB Kellen Clemens will pay the price.

At this point, the Jets should hold off on Washington until June, waiting to see how things play out with the draft and Thomas Jones' contract-related, off-season boycott. I'd be surprised if Jones shows up for this week's minicamp, but he can't be fined because it's non-mandatory.

***

My latest projection for the Jets' first-round pick. The top three candidates:

1. QB Josh Freeman, Kansas State - Frankly, I don't think the Jets are dying to pick a quarterback, but I have to put somebody in the No. 1 spot and a quarterback probably would have the most value.

2. DE Tyson Jackson, LSU - The Jets don't have any young studs on the D-line.

3. TE Brandon Pettigrew, Oklahoma State - They don't seem too high on the receivers, so I'll go to the next need - an in-line tight end. Pettigrew is the most complete tight end in the draft, although there's some off-the-field issues. But they need a replacement for Chris Baker, and Dustin Keller isn't the blocking type, no matter what he says.

[bitonti]

My latest projection for the Jets' first-round pick. The top three candidates:

1. QB Josh Freeman, Kansas State - Frankly, I don't think the Jets are dying to pick a quarterback, but I have to put somebody in the No. 1 spot and a quarterback probably would have the most value.

2. DE Tyson Jackson, LSU - The Jets don't have any young studs on the D-line.

3. TE Brandon Pettigrew, Oklahoma State - They don't seem too high on the receivers, so I'll go to the next need - an in-line tight end. Pettigrew is the most complete tight end in the draft, although there's some off-the-field issues. But they need a replacement for Chris Baker, and Dustin Keller isn't the blocking type, no matter what he says.

Considering Tyson Jackson might not be there... Petti looking more and more like a real possibility at 17.

Rex Ryan says he want's to build an "all weather offense" i think Petti makes that happen.

[SoFlaJets]

Considering Tyson Jackson might not be there... Petti looking more and more like a real possibility at 17.

Rex Ryan says he want's to build an "all weather offense" i think Petti makes that happen.

who do you want Matt, keeping in mind who'll probably still be there @17?

[JiF]

Let's get the pre-draft hype rolling

April 13, 2009

Remember me?

After a week off, I'm back in the blogging/newspaper business, looking forward to the most exciting time of the year: Draft time. We'll have our annual positional previews, leading right up to the draft - 12 days and counting. This year, there's a curve ball in the pre-draft hype - a non-mandatory minicamp, scheduled for Thursday to Saturday in Florham Park, N.J. Obviously, it'll be our first live glimpse of the much-anticipated QB competition.

First, some random thoughts and observations:

The Jets' pursuit of Cowboys WR Miles Austin, a restricted free agent, tells me two things: The organization isn't convinced that Brad Smith, Chansi Stuckey or David Clowney can be a front-line receiver. It also tells me the organization doesn't like the wide-receiver value with the 17th overall pick. Assuming Michael Crabtree and Jeremy Maclin are gone, the Jets probably will be looking at Darrius Heyward-Bey (a size-speed guy), Percy Harvin (durability and off-the-field issues) and Hakeem Nicks (suspect speed) - all projected as late-first or early-second round picks. Personally, I think surrendering a second-round pick for Austin would be a huge gamble, bordering on a gross miscalculation, but the Jets want a receiver and they evidently don't like what they see in the draft.

***

In case you're wondering, that second-round pick, packaged with the 17th pick, could get the Jets as high as 10th in the first round, according to the draft-pick value chart. At the risk of sounding like a radio call-in geek, I'm going to propose a trade: The Jets send their second-round pick (No. 52) and WR Brad Smith to the Browns for WR Braylon Edwards. Think about it: The Browns took a No. 2 and a No. 5 from the Bucs for TE Kellen Winslow. Smith is a former No. 4, so there's comparable value. Plus, Eric Mangini loves the guy.

Granted, Edwards has more value than Winslow, so the Browns might hold out for a No. 1, but I think there's enough there between the two teams to make a deal.

Thoughts?

***

Another QB bit the dust over the weekend, as Byron Leftwich signed with the Bucs. Right now, the top two free-agent QBs are J.P. Losman and Rex Grossman. Out of that duo, I'd say the Jets prefer Losman, but it's looking more and more like the Jets are going to stick with the current cast - unless they draft a QB. The Bucs could cut Brian Griese now that Leftwich is on board, but I wouldn't touch Griese with a 10-foot pole.

***

One thing some people are forgetting with these Leon Washington negotiations: The Jets don't have to do anything. Washington is under contract for 2009 and, unless there's a new CBA, he will be a restricted free agent (not unrestricted) in 2010. The rules of the game will change, absent a new labor agreement, and fourth-year guys like Washington and QB Kellen Clemens will pay the price.

At this point, the Jets should hold off on Washington until June, waiting to see how things play out with the draft and Thomas Jones' contract-related, off-season boycott. I'd be surprised if Jones shows up for this week's minicamp, but he can't be fined because it's non-mandatory.

***

My latest projection for the Jets' first-round pick. The top three candidates:

1. QB Josh Freeman, Kansas State - Frankly, I don't think the Jets are dying to pick a quarterback, but I have to put somebody in the No. 1 spot and a quarterback probably would have the most value.

2. DE Tyson Jackson, LSU - The Jets don't have any young studs on the D-line.

3. TE Brandon Pettigrew, Oklahoma State - They don't seem too high on the receivers, so I'll go to the next need - an in-line tight end. Pettigrew is the most complete tight end in the draft, although there's some off-the-field issues. But they need a replacement for Chris Baker, and Dustin Keller isn't the blocking type, no matter what he says.

Some one metioned this earlier, but I swear its true, these guys get their material from Message boards.

I have been talking about packaging Brad Smith or Eric Smith and a pick to Clev. for Braylon for months. (Im not the only one).

[Irish Jet]

Considering Tyson Jackson might not be there... Petti looking more and more like a real possibility at 17.

Rex Ryan says he want's to build an "all weather offense" i think Petti makes that happen.

Yeah and we'll sign Mike Vick while we're at it.

Look I like Pettigrew as a prospect, but we just used a 1st on a TE and that is not the way I want us to go this season. We can get a cheap option for backup/blocking TE in free agency, it's not as if we need a bonafide stud in that position. We need depth because Keller looks like he's the real deal, at least in terms of recieving.

We have too many other areas of concern and IMO at 17 there'll be too much talent still on the board to take Pettigrew.

If we do take I'll not be jumping bridges, but that's not the way I'd like us to go.

[Irish Jet]

Some one metioned this earlier, but I swear its true, these guys get their material from Message boards.

I have been talking about packaging Brad Smith or Eric Smith and a pick to Clev. for Braylon for months. (Im not the only one).

LOL, I was thinking the exact same thing when I read that. Cimini is a tool anyways. Searching for info on messageboards can only make him look smarter.

In regards to that deal, Cleveland would be crazy to accept it and if they did, Browns fans would be calling for Mangini's head. (If they're not doing that already)

[Irish Jet]

1. QB Josh Freeman, Kansas State - Frankly, I don't think the Jets are dying to pick a quarterback, but I have to put somebody in the No. 1 spot and a quarterback probably would have the most value.

I don't know what to think of Freeman, he's a real possibility at 17 but he has a lot of question marks. Part of me really likes him, I think that in college he showed flashes of greatness, he has a GREAT arm and can make every throw and if he could become more consistent with his accuracy and desicion making (Something that probably will improve over time) then I think he could develop into a true stud. My problem is that I don't think his ability to extend plays will translate into the NFL like it did with Big Ben. Which could be a problem.

He at least merits a lot of consideration. I wouldn't be surprised to see us take him at all.

[JiF]

Yeah and we'll sign Mike Vick while we're at it.

Look I like Pettigrew as a prospect, but we just used a 1st on a TE and that is not the way I want us to go this season. We can get a cheap option for backup/blocking TE in free agency, it's not as if we need a bonafide stud in that position. We need depth because Keller looks like he's the real deal, at least in terms of recieving.

We have too many other areas of concern and IMO at 17 there'll be too much talent still on the board to take Pettigrew.

If we do take I'll not be jumping bridges, but that's not the way I'd like us to go.

FWIW, Tony G was a terrible blocker when he entered the league and he busted his ass to be a 3 down TE and he improved his blocking dramatically.

Who's to say Keller couldnt do the same?

I have said this a bunch of times, just go tap into the Ravens resource pool and sign Daniel Wilcox. If you dont want to resign Bubba, then draft a TE in the later rounds. Problem solved.

[slats]

Look I like Pettigrew as a prospect, but we just used a 1st on a TE and that is not the way I want us to go this season. We can get a cheap option for backup/blocking TE in free agency, it's not as if we need a bonafide stud in that position. We need depth because Keller looks like he's the real deal, at least in terms of recieving.

I think you're downplaying the importance of a true TE to this Jets offense. But of course, the way the Jets let Chris Baker go, maybe they are, too.

A solid blocker/genuine receiving threat at the TE position would be a huge asset to the Jets - especially with a young, inexperienced signal caller. It gives the Jets another big target to throw to, or another big body to pass protect. Opposing defenses wouldn't be able to overplay the run if that TE can also catch, as they would with a Sean Ryan type player filling that role. The Jets could run a lot of two-TE sets, swing one of them into the backfield on occassion, spread out Keller... lots of options. A guy like Pettigrew in short yardage situations gives you a strong blocker who can sneak out for a pass - and catch it.

I wouldn't jump for joy if this was the pick, but I'd probably nod quietly in agreement.

[Maxman]

Considering Tyson Jackson might not be there... Petti looking more and more like a real possibility at 17.

Rex Ryan says he want's to build an "all weather offense" i think Petti makes that happen.

I am pretty sure Ryan is going to build an all weather offense alright. They won't be able to score in wind, sun or rain.

[SoFlaJets]

I am pretty sure Ryan is going to build an all weather offense alright. They won't be able to score in wind, sun or rain.

[bitonti]

If you dont want to resign Bubba, then draft a TE in the later rounds. Problem solved.

yeah because that's what late rounds are for... to solve immediate problems

SoFlaJet to be honest I'd be pleased with alot of names the question is who will be there? if all of the good ones are gone (Sanchez, Crabtree, T Jackson, Wells, Maclin, Moreno) are gone then I'd be fine with Petti.

[Irish Jet]

I think you're downplaying the importance of a true TE to this Jets offense. But of course, the way the Jets let Chris Baker go, maybe they are, too.

A solid blocker/genuine receiving threat at the TE position would be a huge asset to the Jets - especially with a young, inexperienced signal caller. It gives the Jets another big target to throw to, or another big body to pass protect. Opposing defenses wouldn't be able to overplay the run if that TE can also catch, as they would with a Sean Ryan type player filling that role. The Jets could run a lot of two-TE sets, swing one of them into the backfield on occassion, spread out Keller... lots of options. A guy like Pettigrew in short yardage situations gives you a strong blocker who can sneak out for a pass - and catch it.

I wouldn't jump for joy if this was the pick, but I'd probably nod quietly in agreement.

I don't think I'm downplaying it at all. The fact of the matter is, Keller is the starter and although yo can spread him out from time to time he is the starting TE for this team.

Now I'm aware that you can run two TE sets and Pettigrew would bring versatility to the offense but you could be as versatile with a Chris Baker in there too so why let him go and burn a first rounder to replace him. Makes no sense.

JiF IMO has it right. First of all you can't rule Keller out when it comes to blocking, pretty sure I read that he's working hard to improve that aspect of his game anyways. He's young and will probably get better.

You can draft a blocking TE in the later rounds or sign a decent on in free agency. You don't need to use a first round pick on one.

[JiF]

yeah because that's what late rounds are for... to solve immediate problems

SoFlaJet to be honest I'd be pleased with alot of names the question is who will be there? if all of the good ones are gone (Sanchez, Crabtree, T Jackson, Wells, Maclin, Moreno) are gone then I'd be fine with Petti.

When you are asking him to be your 3rd TE and just be a blocker...why not?

Didnt we have Wayne Turner checking into the game as a TE a bunch last year?

[Irish Jet]

yeah because that's what late rounds are for... to solve immediate problems

SoFlaJet to be honest I'd be pleased with alot of names the question is who will be there? if all of the good ones are gone (Sanchez, Crabtree, T Jackson, Wells, Maclin, Moreno) are gone then I'd be fine with Petti.

Depth at the TE is a problem, no one's denying that but is it really a problem that merits a first round pick? No, not IMO.

Again I won't go crazy if the Jets pick Pettigrew, it would be understandable to an extent but I wouldn't like it. Keller is going to be a great recieving threat from the TE position IMO, unless you're going to use him like a Dallas Clark (Which in this offense I doubt) it makes little sense to draft a guy so high who will be a #2 TE.

[slats]

I don't think I'm downplaying it at all. The fact of the matter is, Keller is the starter and although yo can spread him out from time to time he is the starting TE for this team.

Now I'm aware that you can run two TE sets and Pettigrew would bring versatility to the offense but you could be as versatile with a Chris Baker in there too so why let him go and burn a first rounder to replace him. Makes no sense.

JiF IMO has it right. First of all you can't rule Keller out when it comes to blocking, pretty sure I read that he's working hard to improve that aspect of his game anyways. He's young and will probably get better.

You can draft a blocking TE in the later rounds or sign a decent on in free agency. You don't need to use a first round pick on one.

That's the strongest indication that they wouldn't make the move for Pettigrew, I agree.

Josh Freeman or one of the WR's would have a higher ceiling, but would also be boom or bust type picks. After Vernon Gholston, does Tannenbaum have the stomach for that much risk? Pettigrew should simply become a solid NFL player, and I personally really don't think RB should even be on the radar for the Jets in the first couple rounds.

There's a logic to it, that's all I'm saying. I'm just happy that the Jets have us guessing at this stage. A far cry from Bradwards essentially announcing that they'd be taking Santana Moss with their first pick.

[Irish Jet]

That's the strongest indication that they wouldn't make the move for Pettigrew, I agree.

Josh Freeman or one of the WR's would have a higher ceiling, but would also be boom or bust type picks. After Vernon Gholston, does Tannenbaum have the stomach for that much risk? Pettigrew should simply become a solid NFL player, and I personally really don't think RB should even be on the radar for the Jets in the first couple rounds.

There's a logic to it, that's all I'm saying. I'm just happy that the Jets have us guessing at this stage. A far cry from Bradwards essentially announcing that they'd be taking Santana Moss with their first pick.

I agree that there is a logic to it and you make a fair point about Gholston.

I've never been too much of a fan of these "safe" picks though.

[bitonti]

TE in the NFL are expected to do 3 things, catch the ball, pass block and run block. Keller can only do 1 of those things. He does it really well... but still with Coles leaving Keller is going to be expected to step up even more as a receiver. He can't replace Coles and Baker, he can only maybe help with 1 of those loss. I'd say send him out on routes, let Petti or whoever duke it out in the trenches all day.

[SoFlaJets]

I have a feeling that we're going to use 5 of our 6 picks on offensive players

[JiF]

TE in the NFL are expected to do 3 things, catch the ball, pass block and run block. Keller can only do 1 of those things. He does it really well... but still with Coles leaving Keller is going to be expected to step up even more as a receiver. He can't replace Coles and Baker, he can only maybe help with 1 of those loss. I'd say send him out on routes, let Petti or whoever duke it out in the trenches all day.

This is sort of a contradiction. On one hand you are saying that TE's are expected to 3 three things. On the other, you are saying that we can have Petti just do 2 of them while Keller does the other 1. Which once again goes back to taking a blocking TE in the first round, which most of us are against.

[BroadwayJ667]

FWIW, Tony G was a terrible blocker when he entered the league and he busted his ass to be a 3 down TE and he improved his blocking dramatically.

Who's to say Keller couldnt do the same?

I have said this a bunch of times, just go tap into the Ravens resource pool and sign Daniel Wilcox. If you dont want to resign Bubba, then draft a TE in the later rounds. Problem solved.

they probably will they are just waiting until after the draft

[bitonti]

This is sort of a contradiction. On one hand you are saying that TE's are expected to 3 three things. On the other, you are saying that we can have Petti just do 2 of them while Keller does the other 1. Which once again goes back to taking a blocking TE in the first round, which most of us are against.

Petti can do it all. He's a TE. Keller is an H Back.

Just to be clear you or I could be "against" this pick but it doesn't change the need.

[SoFlaJets]

Petti can do it all. He's a TE. Keller is an H Back.

Just to be clear you or I could be "against" this pick but it doesn't change the need.

what about this Richard Quinn guy they had in Bit, the TE from NC?

[bitonti]

what about this Richard Quinn guy they had in Bit, the TE from NC?

I think he's an interesting mid round sleeper, round 4 or so... round 3 is reaching. He can block but I don't know that he can catch. only 12 career receptions.

the problem with mid round picks is it usually takes them years before they can contribute on real offense. Chris Baker took about 3 seasons before he could be trusted... I think quinn is on a similar track. Most of the TE drafted after round 2 this year will be special teamers in 2009.

[PS17]

Let's get the pre-draft hype rolling

April 13, 2009

Remember me?

After a week off, I'm back in the blogging/newspaper business, looking forward to the most exciting time of the year: Draft time. We'll have our annual positional previews, leading right up to the draft - 12 days and counting. This year, there's a curve ball in the pre-draft hype - a non-mandatory minicamp, scheduled for Thursday to Saturday in Florham Park, N.J. Obviously, it'll be our first live glimpse of the much-anticipated QB competition.

First, some random thoughts and observations:

The Jets' pursuit of Cowboys WR Miles Austin, a restricted free agent, tells me two things: The organization isn't convinced that Brad Smith, Chansi Stuckey or David Clowney can be a front-line receiver. It also tells me the organization doesn't like the wide-receiver value with the 17th overall pick. Assuming Michael Crabtree and Jeremy Maclin are gone, the Jets probably will be looking at Darrius Heyward-Bey (a size-speed guy), Percy Harvin (durability and off-the-field issues) and Hakeem Nicks (suspect speed) - all projected as late-first or early-second round picks. Personally, I think surrendering a second-round pick for Austin would be a huge gamble, bordering on a gross miscalculation, but the Jets want a receiver and they evidently don't like what they see in the draft.

***

In case you're wondering, that second-round pick, packaged with the 17th pick, could get the Jets as high as 10th in the first round, according to the draft-pick value chart. At the risk of sounding like a radio call-in geek, I'm going to propose a trade: The Jets send their second-round pick (No. 52) and WR Brad Smith to the Browns for WR Braylon Edwards. Think about it: The Browns took a No. 2 and a No. 5 from the Bucs for TE Kellen Winslow. Smith is a former No. 4, so there's comparable value. Plus, Eric Mangini loves the guy.

Granted, Edwards has more value than Winslow, so the Browns might hold out for a No. 1, but I think there's enough there between the two teams to make a deal.

Thoughts?

***

Another QB bit the dust over the weekend, as Byron Leftwich signed with the Bucs. Right now, the top two free-agent QBs are J.P. Losman and Rex Grossman. Out of that duo, I'd say the Jets prefer Losman, but it's looking more and more like the Jets are going to stick with the current cast - unless they draft a QB. The Bucs could cut Brian Griese now that Leftwich is on board, but I wouldn't touch Griese with a 10-foot pole.

***

One thing some people are forgetting with these Leon Washington negotiations: The Jets don't have to do anything. Washington is under contract for 2009 and, unless there's a new CBA, he will be a restricted free agent (not unrestricted) in 2010. The rules of the game will change, absent a new labor agreement, and fourth-year guys like Washington and QB Kellen Clemens will pay the price.

At this point, the Jets should hold off on Washington until June, waiting to see how things play out with the draft and Thomas Jones' contract-related, off-season boycott. I'd be surprised if Jones shows up for this week's minicamp, but he can't be fined because it's non-mandatory.

***

My latest projection for the Jets' first-round pick. The top three candidates:

1. QB Josh Freeman, Kansas State - Frankly, I don't think the Jets are dying to pick a quarterback, but I have to put somebody in the No. 1 spot and a quarterback probably would have the most value.

2. DE Tyson Jackson, LSU - The Jets don't have any young studs on the D-line.

3. TE Brandon Pettigrew, Oklahoma State - They don't seem too high on the receivers, so I'll go to the next need - an in-line tight end. Pettigrew is the most complete tight end in the draft, although there's some off-the-field issues. But they need a replacement for Chris Baker, and Dustin Keller isn't the blocking type, no matter what he says.

Shouldn't the playoffs in January be the most exciting time? Oh wait, this is the Jets.

[Stonehands]

Look at the past years of Jason Witten and Jeremy Shockey for why you bring in a Pettigrew. When either of those guys has not been paired with a solid second TE, they have been forced to take on responsibilities (i.e. blocking) that have taken them away from their strength (i.e. receiving). Keller needs to be paired with an inline blocker to be assured that he will be able to operate in the slot. Pettigrew would be an A plus, I think Quinn, Phillips or Pascoe could be B minus options.

[JMJ]

At the risk of sounding like a radio call-in geek, I'm going to propose a trade: The Jets send their second-round pick (No. 52) and WR Brad Smith to the Browns for WR Braylon Edwards.

Thoughts?

You sound like a (stupid) radio call-in geek.

[jumpinjoe]

Pettigrew is a beast at the line of scrimmage and fits into our plans for the offense. Ryan has said the Jets are going to pound the ball and challenge the opponent to stop us. That's why Pettigrew or an o-lineman wouldn't surprise me with our first round pick.

[T0mShane]

I think you're downplaying the importance of a true TE to this Jets offense. But of course, the way the Jets let Chris Baker go, maybe they are, too.

A solid blocker/genuine receiving threat at the TE position would be a huge asset to the Jets - especially with a young, inexperienced signal caller. It gives the Jets another big target to throw to, or another big body to pass protect. Opposing defenses wouldn't be able to overplay the run if that TE can also catch, as they would with a Sean Ryan type player filling that role. The Jets could run a lot of two-TE sets, swing one of them into the backfield on occassion, spread out Keller... lots of options. A guy like Pettigrew in short yardage situations gives you a strong blocker who can sneak out for a pass - and catch it.

I wouldn't jump for joy if this was the pick, but I'd probably nod quietly in agreement.

Q. What do the following teams have in common?

Chargers

Steelers

Eagles

Giants

Cardinals

Panthers

Ravens

Titans

A. They all played in the Divisional round last year and none of them have an "all-around" TE on their roster. A great downfield passing game is far more effective in boosting a running game than any TE on the LOS would be, bro.

[Sperm Edwards]

Q. What do the following teams have in common?

Chargers

Steelers

Eagles

Giants

Cardinals

Panthers

Ravens

Titans

A. They all played in the Divisional round last year and none of them have an "all-around" TE on their roster. A great downfield passing game is far more effective in boosting a running game than any TE on the LOS would be, bro.

Miller and Heap are very much all-around TE's. So is Gates, who is actually a pretty good blocker; he's not Kyle Brady, but he's no LJ Smith either.

Crumpler is much more of a blocker-only than he used to be. Jeff King as well.

LJ Smith blocks about as aggressively (and as well) as a teenage girl who just finished doing her nails & doesn't want to get them all cruddy. Their RB's barely averaged a combined 90 rushing yards per game, which blows considering the talent they have at the position. They also used 2-TE sets quite a bit with Celek & Smith.

Kevin Boss, blocking-wise, is worlds different (for the better) than he was a year earlier.

The Cardinals aren't that great of an example as their running game sucked despite playing 6 games in that candy-ass division.

But it's a lot easier for Dustin Keller to improve his blocking than it is for an Eric Heiden type to become a 500-600-yard receiving TE while being in the starting lineup for only 6 games.

[Irish Jet]

Q. What do the following teams have in common?

Chargers

Steelers

Eagles

Giants

Cardinals

Panthers

Ravens

Titans

A. They all played in the Divisional round last year and none of them have an "all-around" TE on their roster. A great downfield passing game is far more effective in boosting a running game than any TE on the LOS would be, bro.

Terrible list.

Gates, Heap and especially Miller may be the best all-around TE's in the game.

Now I agree that they aren't critically important, especially if you have the kind of offensive line we have and a solid backup who CAN block.

[124]

Terrible list.

Gates, Heap and especially Miller may be the best all-around TE's in the game.

Now I agree that they aren't critically important, especially if you have the kind of offensive line we have and a solid backup who CAN block.

Heath Miller isn't anything special.

Todd Heap hasn't been Todd Heap in 2 or 3 years.

You don't need an all around TE to win in the NFL. The Jets will be fine with Keller nabbing 60, 70 balls and the other TE, whoever he is, staying on the line and blocking like a champion.

[T0mShane]

Miller and Heap are very much all-around TE's. So is Gates, who is actually a pretty good blocker; he's not Kyle Brady, but he's no LJ Smith either.

Crumpler is much more of a blocker-only than he used to be. Jeff King as well.

LJ Smith blocks about as aggressively (and as well) as a teenage girl who just finished doing her nails & doesn't want to get them all cruddy. Their RB's barely averaged a combined 90 rushing yards per game, which blows considering the talent they have at the position. They also used 2-TE sets quite a bit with Celek & Smith.

Kevin Boss, blocking-wise, is worlds different (for the better) than he was a year earlier.

The Cardinals aren't that great of an example as their running game sucked despite playing 6 games in that candy-ass division.

But it's a lot easier for Dustin Keller to improve his blocking than it is for an Eric Heiden type to become a 500-600-yard receiving TE while being in the starting lineup for only 6 games.

Hi Sperm. I probably should have been more specific when I used the term "all around TE." I meant a guy who blocks like a lineman and catches like a WR--guys like Jason Witten.

Gates or Heap are more seal/influence-type blockers and certainly not the mauler that Witten is. Heath Miller is probably the closet thing to Witten, but he's not in his class as either a receiver or blocker, imo, and Keller should end up being the better overall player (vs. Miller). I wish I had included your last sentence in my original post, because I agree wholeheartledly, and I believe that Keller could develop into at least the blocker that Gates and Heap are (though not as good a blocker as Heath Miller probably is--I love me some Heath Miller).

My overall point was that you can be successful without the mauler on the end of the line. If Pettigrew is Jason Witten II, then I think we can argue that he'd be a good pick (even though it relegates Keller to a slot-receiver role). But, if he's not Witten, and he's just a really good TE, then I think the pick is wasted because Keller is already on the team.

[Midget Love 20]

Are we the next Detriot Lions devoting ANOTHER 1st round pick to the same position? Keller is the BEST TE in the AFC East and I will go on a limb to say he'll have have 60-70 receptions 700-800 yards 3-6 tds. Me thinky Jets are doing three things:

1) Trading up for a guy on their board they love that falls outta the top-10.

2) Defense to show off Ryan's defensive know-how

3) Trade down/swap picks to get an extra 2nd to land a WR (or compensate for chasing after Austin)

[Sperm Edwards]

Hi Sperm. I probably should have been more specific when I used the term "all around TE." I meant a guy who blocks like a lineman and catches like a WR--guys like Jason Witten.

Gates or Heap are more seal/influence-type blockers and certainly not the mauler that Witten is. Heath Miller is probably the closet thing to Witten, but he's not in his class as either a receiver or blocker, imo, and Keller should end up being the better overall player (vs. Miller). I wish I had included your last sentence in my original post, because I agree wholeheartledly, and I believe that Keller could develop into at least the blocker that Gates and Heap are (though not as good a blocker as Heath Miller probably is--I love me some Heath Miller).

My overall point was that you can be successful without the mauler on the end of the line. If Pettigrew is Jason Witten II, then I think we can argue that he'd be a good pick (even though it relegates Keller to a slot-receiver role). But, if he's not Witten, and he's just a really good TE, then I think the pick is wasted because Keller is already on the team.

Don't you friggin' Hi Sperm me. Heath Miller is nothing compared to the great trio of Jolley/Nugent/Houston we got instead.

And Pettigrew will be a bust based on his faggoty name.