03-18-2020, 02:28 PM
(03-18-2020, 07:50 AM)TJHoushmandzadeh Wrote: I think the trouble is the same fans will, if we don't draft a day 2 O-lineman, be bemoaning the lack of upgrades on the offensive line and saying things like "the game is won in the trenches". Well if the game is won in the trenches we've gone a long way to winning games as we've gone and signed arguably the best available lineman in free agency on either side of the ball to a long term deal. Someone who is not only one of the very best players in his position in the NFL but is only 25 years old so is in his prime and seems to be of good character as well. I love this signing.
As for not a position of need, I like Billings but he was out of contract so there was a hole and this is a clear upgrade. The Bengals were defensively 32nd in rushing yards. DJ Reader was something like 4th against the rush (whilst also being top 10 against the pass). Moreover his play should elevate those around him. It'll help Geno, it'll help Dunlap, Lawson and Hubbard, it'll help the LBers. I think this move moves the needle far more than swapping Waynes for Dre.
As for best use of money, I much prefer spending to get one of the best at their position rather than overpaying for a good not great player plus D-line is more of a premium position than linebacker. To attack linebacker I'd look to collect mid-round draft picks (NE have got 8 draft picks rounds 3-6, lets take some of them off their hands for Dalton) to double dip in the middle rounds and sign some 4th wave free agents. Throw enough against the wall and some will stick.
Great post.
