02-18-2022, 05:56 PM
(02-18-2022, 10:35 AM)sloSTI Wrote: Nobody thinks these vets would come here for slightly less money, after just playing in a SB? I think they have a solid foundation to build off of, and people should want to go to a contender and might sign here for a little less since they are close, than signing somewhere for more money and not have a realistic chance.
This theory will be tested before free agency hits. If Bates, CJ and a few of the other key free agents won't sign for a bit less to play here with a chance of winning and a great culture, then hard to believe others will be more willing.
I am not suggesting management low ball the players but would be nice to see Bates, CJ, Larry O take the lower end of their projected salary range.
One of the reasons NE was great all those years, was Brady took a bit less -which led to a few others taking a bit less --some did not but many did allowing sustained success.
If Jessie take $13.5 mil? Or CJ take $6.5 mil then they are messaging out to other players that they want to be here. If they hold out for max money that will also send a message
