Why Not?

[casear2727]

(03-10-2022, 12:40 PM)Wyche Wrote: Right, it's just each of our opinions, lol. I understand your point, and it has merit as well. I guess where I'm stuck, is that we're paying Bates 2 million more a year for hit or miss production. Minus the gaffes in the SB, Boyd has steady, and sometimes very good, production. So, say we let Bates walk, we have money for that guard, and a replacement for 30. 

In reality, Bates and Boyd are both fan favs. I certainly am not trying to diminish Jesse, he's been a good player. What I am saying is that there is more than one way to skin this cat. Our secondary was actually pretty good last year, and those guys don't miss tackles. Bates has in the past. Honestly, I think the sure tackling of our CBs is grossly overlooked. In years past, they have been terrible in run support. That wasn't the case last year, and I believe that was as big a part of our run defense being much improved as having Reader healthy and solid rotation up front. Hell, Apple saved the game in KC coming up and putting a hat on Hill and stopping him dead in his tracks. The last few years, I'm not sure anyone makes that play from our secondary. Vonn Bell has played very well also. 

I agree with much of this. 

Im not equating Bates & Boyds production.  I agree Bates played poorly this season, but we with our current roster missing a CB and not knowing the replacement and zero depth Im much more concerned about the FS replacement than who will play the 3rd wide receiver.  If we had a replacement or plan in place this part would be negligible.

I dont want the WR3 or FS to be the highest guy on either side of the ball whatsoever.

My preference to spend high dollars on O: QB, WR1, OLINE, WR2.  On D: DE, CB, DT

Solid oline the WR's and Mixon should get the bulk of the load. I dont see Mixon here in 2024 with his cap hit. Upgrade the line again and any RB can hit an open hole, any WR3 and TE can be check downs if we still have Higgins

Defense: Stop the run, rush the passer, defend dangerous receivers.  Great CBs dont need a great FS, I would prefer this method.

NFL salaries make no secret the valued positions.