The John Ross Dichotomy

[Essex Johnson]

(10-22-2020, 05:46 PM)Wes Mantooth Wrote: I'm not a big John Ross fan.  Shocker, I know.  That said, I do wonder if he can, or could have, been better used.

I think we can agree that he's proven that he can't play the role of a traditional 1st or 2nd option.  He drops too many passes, he's not dependable, and he's really too small to go up and outwork guys for balls.

But I really have to wonder, could we not do more to play to his strengths?  Why not run more things for like: hitch routes, quick outs, reverses?  Why not try him as a punt or kick returner?

I just think the creativity has been sorely lacking.  And as much as I'm ready to move on, and I've long been willing to label him a complete bust, I still think he's talented enough to be worthy of seeing some use week to week.

If I'm being honest, I would take an active John Ross over an active Mike Thomas 10/10 out of times.  Obviously a lot of people on here disagree, and so does the coaching staff, so maybe I'm just wrong.  But I still believe this staff, along with the previous one, did a terrible job getting him involved.  

They both try to use him like a tradional receiver, and he's just not.  And having streak down the sideline isn't nearly creative enough to take full advantage of his speed and quickness.  I would not at all be surpised to see him go elsewhere and carve out a unique role for himself.

in 4 years with two totally different coaching staffs.. we ended up getting the same result.. that sums it up for me..