Gronk

[casear2727]

(02-10-2022, 11:39 AM)ochocincos Wrote: I do too, even if it means letting Bates leave. Bates is going to be head and shoulders the highest FA to keep.
Imagine using that money to get a really good OL (or two).
I think there are comparative guys in Rd 1 or Rd 2 of the draft that can come in and perform at least somewhat close to Bates (Daxton Hill my guy).
With that said, there are a few guys in late Rd 1 that I do think could start and succeed at OL too.
Zion Johnson is my guy if Bengals go OL in Rd 1.
Would love that dude at RG.

We think alike.  If we let Bates walk this scenario could take place:


Sign a top OT:  Armstead or Brown Jr. ($16 - 19M). We could save money with Trent Brown, 28 (12M) or Germain Ifedi, 27 (7M)

Draft Zion to play RG, Spain (resign at $3-4M) & Carmen compete for LG

___________________________
Draft a Safety for the future.

Sign Safety Marcus Maye (Jets) ($6-8M) on a one year "prove I'm back flier" to groom the Rookie (Maye is an excellent Safety who was franchised tagged last year and tore his achilles).  Maye will want big money the following year, let him go.

___________________________
Sign a solid vet at Center:  Bradley Bozeman (Ravens) ($10M) only 27 years old could provide leadership as captain of the line and develop a great relationship with Joe.


$75M Cap Space (Current 58 + Waynes 11 + Hopkins 6)

17M Top OT (Armstead or Brown Jr)
9M  Bozeman (Center)
8M  BJ Hill
8M  CJ
7M  Maye (Safety)
6M  Apple
4M  Spain
3M  Huber/Harris
8M Rookie Pool

5M Balance

Draft Zion (Guard), CB, S, DT, OL

I think this is roster can make a solid run out of the gate.  Drop Maye after 1 year, frontend other deals so we are in great shape for Joe, Chase, Jonah, Tee, Lbers, etc in the next couple years.  2023 draft defense: high pick LB in case we cant afford to resign both Willson/Pratt, CB if we dont get a gem in this draft, DT for future. 

I truly believe this offseason is key for an excellent run the next 5-7 years, we were very lucky with some 50/50 guys this past FA, cant take too many chances this spring.