02-24-2025, 10:41 AM
(02-24-2025, 07:07 AM)puddycat Wrote: This is what I was worried about. It puts us in a position where resigning Hill and his 700 snaps is a Reader-like "must do". Not drafting a DT in a draft class this strong is just stupid. I would have liked to sign a bridge player like Jarran Reed (who may get pushed out of Seattle by Bryan Muphy II.) or sign a 2nd contract NT like Naquan Jones or Bobby Brown. Any of whom wouldn't pull a paycheck that requires them to start over ascending players. Then draft a DT3 or NT, depending on what's available and what you think about McKinnley Jackson.
I don't see how bringing back BJ Hill would preclude us taking a DT in the draft at some point.
We play 4 regularly and usually carry 5. We only have 2 guys signed. And frankly, while there were flashes of good play, neither guy screamed "pencil me in as a starting DT for the next decade" to me. At best, they were both rotational level guys.
We should be looking for 2 starter level players at DT + 1 reserve. In addition to: 2 starting Guards, a WR2, and DE2. And then you have Hilton & Gesicki.
At DT, we need a pass rush guy, and probably another NT type. Ideally, guys who could do both would be fantastic. And Hill, despite not being spectacular as a pass rusher or run stopper, is above average at both. Which is rare for a DT. He can work next to a run suffer type (Jackson, Grant, Walker), or a pass rusher type (Rankins, Nolen).
Most lists I see have Hill as a top 3-4 FA DT. Gesicki as a top 2 TE (though he is really WR3/WR4 for us). And Hilton around #7 in the CB class. These are good players who are still contributing at a good level.
I'd much rather try to bring them back and part with the likes of Cappa, Hubbard, Volson, Moss, Pratt, Stone, D. Sample, and/or McPherson if I need more cap space.
