SB Nation - Brady Poppinga

Rookie Spotlight: Dezman Moses

Devin Shanley — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 17:55:51 -0000

Rookie Spotlight moves from the its look at one of the stars of the draft (Casey Haywar and towards the big star of OTA's and minicamps: Dezman Moses.

How Acquired: Undrafted Free Agent

Chance of making the team: Probable (yup I said it)

Reasonable Expectations for 2012: Making the team and seeing light duty on an as needed basis. Every year there are one or two UDFA's that make the team. These guys come out of no where, make a name for themselves, and turn it into their chance for the big time. Past guys who followed this M.O. include: Tramon Williams, Spencer Havner, Frank Zombo, Sam Shields, Tom Crabtree, and Vic So'oto. From all the talk so far (and yes each one of those words is a different link) that guy appears to be Moses. Because of all this chatter it's hard to find a "reasonable" expectation for him. Zombo and Shields started and produced their rookie year after making their name. Williams and Havner spent a couple years on the PS. Since Moses has produced some in college and we really need an answer opposite from Matthews I think he makes the team and rotates in. If he can produce on special teams then it's a lock...if not then he may just end up on the PS. We'll find out once the pads go on.

How he can exceed expectations: Making Erik Walden or Zombo expendable. I would wager that just about every contributor here, from Kevin to any member of the site, has referred to the OLB position opposite Matthews as something in the flavor of the following: disappointing, below average, barely acceptable, or a big pile of "meh". I have a feeling that the Packer brass would agree with this assessment to some degree, and so we are treated to the flavor of the month that appears opposite him fresh from the discount pile of the NFL. Let's face it, Brady Poppinga, Walden, So'oto, and Zombo weren't exactly expensive prospects (although Poppinga was overpaid for a year). In fact all of those except Poppinga were basically found on the street. Moses is the next in line, but if he can show anything close to the excitement he's shown so far in camp then there is still that hope that we can get some production from our outside pass rush. Something sorely needed. If he can show enough for us to get past this pile of meh (especially in connection with Nick Perry) then he may even develop a bigger fan base than So'oto. Maybe.

Why Packer fans should keep an eye on him: Because we've kept an eye on every other flash at that position. I make fun of our other OLB's, but for the most part we all have believed in those guys at one moment or another. Watching this particular position is something we have been doing ever since the switch to the 3-4 defense and watching another contender step up to the challenge of taking pressure off Clay Matthews is something we are going to do anyways. Oh I should also note the fact that he put up great numbers on a terrible Tulane team. Yes it is important, but you and I both know that's NOT the reason you are going to be watching this guy in camp in a few weeks.

Veteran Free Agent Linebackers

Bruce Raffel — Sun, 06 May 2012 20:00:17 -0000

Although the Baltimore Ravens seemed inclined to go with what they either had or now have in the wake of the Terrell Suggs Achilles Tendon injury, the team can still choose to add a veteran linebacker between now and the regular season. The word is that the jobs are probably going to be 4th year pro Paul Kruger and rookie Courtney Upshaw's to lose at the outside linebacker position, but Albert McClellan and Sergio Kindle might have something to say about that.

If the Ravens choose to look at the veteran free agent market, they probably have already seen that the pickings are slim. There is still the chance that other options may be released as we get closer to Training Camp, as that is how they found both LT Bryant McKinnie and strong safety Bernard Pollard last year.

Both came in late but were such proven veterans that they quickly picked up the Ravens schemes and became unquestioned starters despite having guys with more experience here ahead of them.

(Click on the'Jump' to see a listing of veteran free agent names of players who might interest the Ravens)

If the Ravens want to act now and sign a veteran free agent linebacker to get them into the mini-camps that start next week, here are a few of the guys (and their former teams) they might be looking for to add experienced help. A few of these guys are inside linebackers but perhaps they could make the transition to outside and the Ravens 3-4 primary defensive scheme.

Gary Bracket (Indianapolis Colts), Keith Brooking (Dallas Cowboys), E.J. Henderson (Minnesota Vikings), Rocky McIntosh (Washington Redskins), Brady Poppinga (St. Louis Rams), Joey Porter (Arizona Cardinals), Ernie Simms (Colts), Omar Gaither (Carolina Panthers), Quentin Groves (Oakland Raiders).

What's Left in the Bank and on the Market?

Bro Namath — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 15:44:48 -0000

With the better part of a month still remaining before the 2012 NFL draft begins and my sanity is granted a reprieve from mock drafts for another year, many GGN users are wondering if the team will make any more significant moves in the fleeting days of free agency before moving fully into draft mode. So here is a breakdown of what The Jets have and can still get. From NFL.com, here are the Jets fiscals (current as of yesterday):

New York Jets
Current contracts: 50
Previous year carryover: $8,275,000.00
Adjustments: $1,196,600.00
Adjusted cap: $130,071,600.00
Team cap: $122,379,317.00
Cap room: $7,692,283.00
Team cash: $118,025,500.00

This, like the teams cap space to start free agency, is about dead middle rank in the league. Some teams have virtually no capital, while annual like-clockwork disaster franchises like the Jaguars and Buccaneers have closer to or above 20 million dollars left to spend, if they so choose.

Players Gained: Tim Tebow (QB) for 4th and 6th round picks. LaRon Landry (SS). Chaz Schilens (WR). Scotty McKnight (WR).

Players Lost: Drew Stanton (QB) and a 7th rd pick for a 2012 6th rd pick. Mark Brunell (QB). Plaxico Burress (WR). Brodney Pool (DB). Robert Turner (OL - coming off IR). Matthew Mulligan (TE). Jamaal Westerman (LB). Marquice Cole (DB). LaDainian Tomlinson (RB). Kevin O'Connell (QB). Donald Strickland ??? Jim Leonhard (coming off IR) ???

Re-signed: Bryan Thomas (coming off IR), Sione Pouha, Mark Sanchez, Nick Folk, Patrick Turner. Aaron Maybin tendered.

Remaining Needs: OT, OLB/pass rush, FS, WR, RB, P.

Still Available @ Running Back: Cedric Benson, Ryan Grant, Tim Hightower, Justin Forsett, Mewelde Moore, Ronnie Brown, Thomas Jones, Derrick Ward, Joseph Addai, Sammy Morris, Cadillac Williams.

@ Wide Receiver: Braylon Edwards, Jerome Simpson, Jerricho Cotchery, Lee Evans, Patrick Crayton, Roy Williams, Greg Camarillo, Michael Clayton, Bryant Johnson, Chansi Stuckey, Courtney Roby, Arnaz Battle, Terrell Owens.

@ Offensive Tackle: Marcus McNeill, Demetrius Bell, Kareem McKenzie, Max Starks, Tony Pashos, Barry Richardson, Trai Essex, Pat McQuistan, Stephon Heyer, James Lee, Brandon Keith.

@ Outside Linebacker: Rocky McIntosh, Leroy Hill, Gary Guyton, Joey Porter, Ernie Sims, Bobby Carpenter, Mario Haggan, Thomas Williams, Mike Peterson, Brady Poppinga, Clark Haggans, David Vobora, Omar Gaither, Jo-Lonn Dunbar.

@ Safety: O.J. Atogwe, Melvin Bullit, Deon Grant, Sean Jones, Chris Harris, Yeremiah Bell, Abram Elam, Chris Hope, Reggie Smith, Brian Dawkins, Courtney Greene, Dominique Barber, Gibril Wilson, Husain Abdullah, Jon McGraw, James Sanders, James Ihedigbo, Matt Giordano, Corey Lynch, Sabby Piscitelli, Bobby Sanders, Hamza Abdullah.

@ Punter: Mat McBriar, Jason Baker, Dave Zastudil.

2012 Draft Picks: #16, #47, #77, 5th round exact order TBD, 6th round (Stanton) TBD, 7th round (Tebow) TBD. Jets have traded away one 4th, 6th, and 7th round pick each.

So, what would you do if given total control over the Jets FO and purse strings today? What direction would you take this team in? Is there anything you could reasonably do heading into the draft to address the teams needs?

St. Louis Rams: Re-signing Free Agents is Going to Be a Tough Job - Who Do They Keep?

Douglas M — Sat, 31 Mar 2012 14:00:19 -0000

The St. Louis Rams have dipped their toes in free agency this NFL off season. Signing Wells, Finnegan and Langford addressed not only position needs, but added team leadership too. While the fanbase looks toward the coming NFL Draft to answer a variety of questions still present on the Rams roster; the front office has another serious job to do that doesn't get much press coverage - Re-signing their own free agents or finding their replacements.

Currently, the Rams have 17 player that are unrestricted free agents. They can sign with any team, or re-sign with the Rams if head coach Jeff Fisher finds a need for them on his squad. There are lots of decisions to make, some may be easier than others. Have a look at the list after the jump...

2012 Rams UFAs

UFA	Pos.	Age	Status
Al Harris	CB	37.3	Retiring
A.J. Feeley	QB	34.8	UFA
Tony Wragge	OL	32.6	UFA
Brady Poppinga	LB	32.5	UFA
Donnie Jones	P	31.7	Texans
Adam Goldberg	OL	31.6	UFA
Jacob Bell	OL	31.0	UFA
Brandon Lloyd	WR	30.7	Patriots
Rod Hood	CB	30.4	UFA
Cadillac Williams	RB	29.9	UFA
Gary Gibson	DT	29.9	UFA
Mark Clayton	WR	29.7	UFA
Stephen Spach	TE	29.6	UFA
Mark LeVoir	T	29.6	UFA
James Butler	SS	29.5	UFA
Billy Bajema	TE	29.4	UFA
Kellen Clemens	QB	28.8	UFA
Jerious Norwood	RB	28.6	UFA
Bryan Kehl	LB	27.7	UFA
C. Chamberlain	LB	26.4	Saints
Justin King	CB	24.8	UFA

Chart courtesy of Mike Sando and ESPN

The name that jumps out at me - one that I hope will be missing from the roster before the 2012 NFL season begins - is Justin King. He never lived up to what former head coach Steve Spagnuolo envisioned. In 2011, King was burn by receivers so many times that there should be scorch marks on his jersey.

Billy Bajema had a terrible 2011 campaign. Known for his blocking in times past, his off season training as a Matador crept into his football life. Ole!

Jacob Bell spent last season under-achieving, but his ties with Jeff Fisher from Tennessee may be enough to earn him another look.

James Butler is a curious player. He never lived up to his last contract, yet he sits on the sidelines gobbling up money that could be used elsewhere.

Adam Goldberg gets a bad rap in my opinion. It's more than true that he doesn't have "starter" chops, but he isn't supposed to. He's a back-up, pure and simple, with the patchwork skill set to fill in anywhere along the line. If he stays, it will be on the cheap. He'll cost far less than an experienced FA brought in to fill that 10 to 15 plays a game void he's meant to fill.

There are a few guys I hope the Rams will re-sign. I liked what I saw from Rod Hood. Gary Gibson won't make highlight reels, but in 2011 he actually played well and has stats to prove it.

Re-signing Cadillac Williams or Jerious Norwood to back up Steven Jackson for another season really depends on who the Rams take in the NFL Draft. If they take Trent Richardson, at least one of them is guaranteed to hit the bricks.

So have a look at the least and tell me who you'd keep. Don't say none of them, because the Rams have to field a 53 man roster, and the idea that they'd clear their FA board is unrealistic.

Brady Poppinga Raises Serious Questions About Gregg Williams' Bounty Program

Ryan Van Bibber — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 16:00:47 -0000

On Friday, St. Louis Rams free agent linebacker Brady Poppinga publicly criticized Gregg Williams' bounty program, the subject of a recent NFL investigation that will likely land Williams and the Saints in some very hot water. Poppinga's remarks were the subject of this piece from Alex Marvez at Fox.

Poppinga is hardly the first player to speak out one way or another on the bounty program. What makes Poppinga's situation unique is that Gregg Williams is his defensive coordinator, for a little while anyway.

More the obvious connection about his re-signing with the Rams, Poppinga's statement raises questions about Williams' status with the Rams and the changes coming to Rams Park. Especially notable was that Poppinga brought James Laurinaitis into the conversation. Awkward!

"When this came out, it started to confirm the idea that football guys are idiots," Poppinga said. "That's not who we are. Ninety-five percent of the guys are very intelligent. It's just guys who love to go out and play a physical game."

He also called it "animalistic" and "barbaric."

For all the back and forth and "everyone does it" talk, Poppinga offered perhaps the most salient perspective on the larger implications of Williams' bounty program.

"It's a huge problem in society not knowing how to compete with the right perspective," Poppinga said. "I hope I can motivate people to think about taking a step back and trying to use competition for a greater purpose of self improvement. When you handle competition in the right way - win, lose or draw - it really brings out your best."

That really hits home outside the world of football, in a country still reeling from a recession caused by a winner-take-all attitude that overlooked very real consequences for families and society. I thought about that very point this week as I watched my neighbors move out of their foreclosed home, leaving a void and raising questions about the future of a pleasant stretch of street lined with middle class families who all work, raise children and let their dogs shit in each other's yards with little more than an eye roll.

As far as Poppinga's future with the Rams, this is probably a pretty good sign that he will not be coming back in 2012. That was probably already true, given his status as free agent from the previous regime and role as an outside linebacker in the league's worst run defense.

Thinking about the changes at Rams Park in light of the Williams' scandal got really interesting when Poppinga threw out Laurinaitis' name.

Poppinga said fellow linebacker James Laurinaitis is the only teammate he has spoken with about Williams. ("[Laurinaitis] knows the (bounty system) is pretty dumb," Poppinga said.) As a pending free agent, Poppinga knows speaking out against Williams - who was new Rams head coach Jeff Fisher's hand-picked coordinator - likely lessens his chances of re-signing.

It's not exactly damning, and the Rams would be foolish to alienate one of the team's best players and heart and soul of the defense.

To me, the real implications are this might impact Williams' standing in the eyes of the players, his players. New coaching staffs turn over the roster and bring in their own guys as a rule. However, you have to wonder if Williams is starting off his tenure in St. Louis with players already questioning him, with his authority undermined by the bounty scandal and impending punishment.

The fallout from "BountyGate" is only starting.

Lookin' for Love: Linebackers

Alec Shane — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 17:15:01 -0000

You know what always used to drive me nuts?

I'd be out on a weekend with my friends, freshly showered, shaven, looking quite dapper, and right in the middle of what was about to become my fourth consecutive rejection of the night, this time by a cute brunette who I can tell is rapidly scanning her mental excuse bank for the perfect reason why she can't go out with me. And as I'm standing there, just waiting for the ax to fall, usually to the tune of "I really don't have time for dating right now," in walks an absolutely gorgeous woman - the kind that makes the record scratch and the whole bar to turn their heads. And on her arm, without a care in the world, is some pale, shapeless mass of man that looked like he was fresh out of an open casting call for The Walking Dead.

At first, I think to myself, "that guy must be loaded," but his mustard-stained clothes and New England Associated Barber's College haircut quickly suggested otherwise. The next line of reasoning was, "well, maybe it's a pity date." But it only takes a minute or so of jealous staring to realize that this woman - this beautiful, beautiful woman - is genuinely into him.

Which, of course, always begged the final question, one that has plagued lonely men for centuries:

What on earth does she see in that guy?

We've all asked that question at some point or another, and unfortunately there is no simple answer. The funny thing is, I'm fairly certain that I am now the subject of that question whenever my girlfriend and I go out on the town. I can't imagine what men everywhere must think when they see a petite, blue-eyed, blonde goddess out with...well, me. I guess, at the end of the day, what it simply comes down to is that we all have certain qualities that we are just plain suckers for. Some of us will always fall for a winning smile. For others, a beautiful set of baby blue eyes will send our hearts aflutter. They say that if you can make a woman laugh, she's yours. Some women die for dimples. If this wasn't a family blog, I could go on to mention certain other...um...assets... that men and women look for. Perhaps there are some female Pulpiteers out there who would love nothing more to be swept off their feet by a man with long hair, a chiseled jawline, and a large broadsword draped over a muscular back.

Or something like that. I've never actually opened any of those romance novels I see in the checkout lines at grocery stores, so I could be wrong there. The point is that everyone has their thing that they are into, the quality that they look for in a mate that just sends them over the edge.

When is comes to coach Belichick, few things light his fire like hard-hitting, intelligent, multi-purpose linebackers. For years now, New England's defense has been built around a core linebacking unit that has been able to give opposing quarterbacks different looks and transition seamlessly in and out of multiple defensive schemes. Unfortunately, gone are the days of Tedy Bruschi, Willie McGinnest, and Ted Johnson; it's been a while since the Patriots were able to boast the kind of linebackers that helped bring this team three Lombardi trophies.

The good news is that the linebackers on the roster in 2011 definitely showed flashes of becoming an elite unit. Injuries definitely took their toll throughout the season, but overall, I think the Patriots are in fairly good shape at the linebacker position. Anchored by Jerod Mayo, there is a fair amount of depth and varying skillsets to meet the rigorous demands of the position. However, that doesn't mean that the Patriots couldn't do with some more talent back there, and there are actually some very quality linebackers available via free agency this year. Here are the best of the group, as well as those I think would make the most sense in a Patriots uniform.

OUT OF MY LEAGUE

D'qwell Jackson was on this list too, until he was re-signed by Cleveland. Expect the same to happen to these linebackers fairly soon.

Curtis Lofton. Lofton finished fifth in the league in tackles and led the Falcons for the third consecutive year. He isn't great in pass coverage, but is one of the better linebackers in the league against the run. I'm guessing that one of Atlanta's priorities this offseason will be to lock Lofton up with a multi-year deal, especially since he's the kind of player you can get without breaking the bank. He is a great linebacker the central cog in Atlanta's front seven, and I really can't envision him going anywhere else. Atlanta is currently in talks to bring him back, and reports have the talks going well.

Jameel McClain. McClain is just 26 years old and has excelled in both a 3-4 and 4-3 defense. He is strong against the run and is able to generate QB pressure as well. I'm not sure whether or not Baltimore will be able to keep both McClain and Jarret Johnson, both of whom are free agents this year, although McClain's restricted status leads me to believe that he isn't a player the Patriots will pursue. If he were unrestricted, I think his talent and versatility would make him a great Patriot, but I don't think he's worth whatever tag Baltimore is going to put on him.

SO YOU'RE TELLING ME THERE'S A CHANCE...

There are actually quite a few linebackers out there who would make sense as Patriots, and perhaps under different circumstances, one or more of these players would find their way onto the team. However, given the other needs this team has, these particular linebackers don't really fit.

David Hawthorne

Why he will play for the Patriots in 2012: Hawthorne is a solid linebacker who will likely be allowed to walk and will be available for relatively cheap. He's an adaptable, hard-working player that can be inserted pretty much anywhere along the line. I think that Hawthorne would jump at the chance to play in New England and would actually do better under Belichick than he has done the past few years in Seattle.

Why he won't play for the Patriots in 2012: At the end of the day, Hawthorne really isn't a step up from the players already on the roster. He is good, but not great, and thus I don't really think it makes all that much sense to sign him. I think the Patriots are better off working with the talent they already have and/or grooming a young linebacker that they take in the draft than spending precious cap dollars on what is basically another serviceable linebacker.

Overall: If he's like me right after I got out of college, available and willing to work hard for cheap, I say why not. But I think he'll get a respectable offer from Seattle after finding that there isn't an incredible amount of interest out there and end up staying. But even if he doesn't, this pick doesn't really excite me at all.

London Fletcher

Why he will play for the Patriots in 2012: Fletcher was as productive as any linebacker in the league last year. You can line him up anywhere, he will run through walls for his teammates, and he is a solid veteran presence. We all know that Belichick loves to sign older defensive players, and they don't come much older than Fletcher.

Why he won't play for the Patriots in 2012: Fletcher will be 37 by the start of next season. That's old for pretty much any position in the league, but for a linebacker, that's ancient. Plus, both Fletcher and the Redskins have expressed strong interest in each other, which means he's likely to stay in Washington.

Overall: It's hard not to like a player like London Fletcher - but he probably won't be available. Plus, he's just too old at this point to be a true impact player, and he definitely isn't a long-term solution at a position where the Patriots already have a decent amount of depth. This one doesn't make a whole lot of sense to me, but it's also one of those scenarios where I won't be surprised if he ends up a Patriot next year.

Stephen Tulloch

Why he will play for the Patriots in 2012: Tulloch is a speedy, compact linebacker that excels at shedding blockers and wrapping up ballcarriers. He plays much bigger than his 240 lb frame dictates and can crash through the middle of a line or sprint around the edge to get to the passer. The Lions don't have a lot of cap room, and they have several other players to pay, so Tulloch may ultimately walk. He and Brandon Spikes would make for one of the most formidable run-stopping linebacker combos in the league.

Why he won't play for the Patriots in 2012: If Tulloch does hit the market, the Patriots won't be the only ones to come knocking. I also think that the Lions would very much like to lock Tulloch up long term, and he has said that he likes playing for Jim Schwartz. It's hard to gauge, at this stage in the game, how much money the premier free agent linebackers are going to go for, but I imagine that Tulloch will be among those who get one of the better paydays. If that's the case, I expect New England to bow out.

Overall: I'd like to see Stephen Tulloch as a Patriot, but I don't really see it happening. If linebacker was one of their most glaring needs and Tulloch was a free agent, then I could see it. But I don't think that Tulloch is all that different from what Mayo brings to the table and I won't be upset if the Pats don't even bother kicking his tires.

MOM, DAD...THERE'S SOMEONE I WANT YOU TO MEET.

The Patriots may be one of the hardest teams in the NFL to play for as a linebacker; Bill Belichick is very demanding of the position. These are the players that most live up to those demands.

Anthony Spencer

Why he will play for the Patriots in 2012: Although I've heard rumors stating that Dallas is planning to franchise Spencer, I don't think he's worth the $8 million price tag and won't be surprised if he becomes an unrestricted free agent. He's also coming off a down year and may benefit from a change of scenery. Spencer is solid against the run and knows how to pressure the quarterback. He brings a fair amount of speed off the edge and would be tremendously effective in sub packages running in behind some of New England's bigger defensive linemen.

Why he won't play for the Patriots in 2012: Spencer isn't an overly versatile linebacker, thriving primarily in the left outside backer role. He also benefitted tremendously from playing opposite DeMarcus Ware, who is the league's best outside linebacker, and I'm not sure whether or not he should be viewed as a system player. Bill Belichick values versatility, and Spencer hasn't really shown that. Looking at his recent drop in production, it might make more sense to look for talent elsewhere.

Overall: For the right price, I'll definitely take Spencer. He doesn't represent a massive upgrade in the talent the team already has, but it can never hurt to have a linebacker with Spencer's skillset on the squad to bolster the pass rush on 3rd down. If he's available, I see the Patriots at least expressing interest.

Dan Connor

Why he will play for the Patriots in 2012: Connor is one of the more versatile linebackers in the 2012 free agent class. He can play in either a 4-3 or 3-4 scheme and is equally strong against the run and the pass. Connor would be a starter for pretty much any other team, but Carolina's linebacking corps is absolutely absurd, and Connor was the odd man out. I've always had the strong belief that every great defense has a crazy white guy in the lineup, and Connor fits that description to a T. He would make a great middle linebacker in a 4-3 and would look great next to Jerod Mayo in a 3-4. He's also only 26, which would make him a long-term solution if he works out.

Why he won't play for the Patriots in 2012: There are teams out there who need help at linebacker more than New England does, and Connor may end up getting one of the more surprising paydays of the free agency period. He has also expressed a desire to stay a Panther, and while I don't expect him to be back with Carolina, when a player has a strong enough affinity for a team, contracts can always be worked out. Linebacker also isn't as glaring a need for New England as cornerback, safety, or defensive lineman, so chances are Connor won't be overly high on Belichick's wish list.

Overall: I'm much higher on Dan Connor than I am on Anthony Spencer. I would love to see the Patriots sign him, and I definitely think it's a possibility if he doesn't command a huge deal. I can see a team like the Rams come in and offer him money that the Patriots are in no way willing to pay, but if not, Connor would make a fantastic Patriot.

IF WE BOTH AREN'T MARRIED BY THE TIME WE'RE 40...

Lesser FAs that will be available on the cheap. Of all the names on this list, I can see Brooking coming to New England for at least the start of camp. He'll be 36, but at the very least he'll push the younger guys harder. Jarret Johnson is a guy to watch for, too.

Clark Haggans
Mike Peterson
Brendon Ayanbadejo
Jameel McClain
Jarret Johnson
Reggie Torbor
Antwan Applewhite
Omar Gaither
Keith Brooking
Joe Mays
Bobby Carpenter
Isaiah Ekejiuba
Erik Walden
Tim Dobbins
Ernie Sims
Philip Wheeler
Marvin Mitchell
Chase Blackburn
Jonathan Goff
Bryan Thomas
Darryl Blackstock
Ricky Brown
Quentin Groves
Na'il Diggs
Chris Chamberlain
Bryan Kehl
Brady Poppinga
Geno Hayes
Barrett Ruud
Keyaron Fox

2012 Free Agents: Rams Defensive UFA's

Eric Nagel — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 21:00:25 -0000

When the supreme overlord Ryan Van Bibber blessed me with this article, I was unsure of how I'd grade the Rams 2012 defensive free agents. Are any of them worth keeping? Will they even fit Greggggg Williams defense? I mean, this is a team that has UFA's ranging from Bryan Kehl to Justin King! Wait a minute...this might be a bit easier than expected.

Hit the jump to see the list of defensive free agents and whether or not the Rams should keep them around.

DT Gary Gibson

I'm torn on Gibson. He isn't flashy. He isn't incredibly productive. He's just there. But the Rams are so devoid of any play making ability at defensive tackle that it makes it tough to get rid of someone who is, by all purposes, an average player. In the end, I see Gibson getting a one-year offer from the Rams, mostly to see how he fares in training camp; he's definitely on the outside looking in.

Outlook: Training Camp Fodder

LB Chris Chamberlain

Chamberlain is easily my favorite out of all the defensive UFA's. He played well as a starter towards the end of the year, and is, as always, a solid special teams contributor. Like the depth at defensive tackle, the Rams are woefully short, so I expect they make an offer to him. I would not be surprised however, if someone like the Saints (Hey Steve!) come a'knockin.

Outlook: Re-signed

LB Bryan Kehl

Kehl is a textbook Spagnuolo guy. He has never really been in the spotlight, so the new regime won't have much to go on. I highly doubt he'll be on the team, likely replaced by one of Fisher's own projects.

Outlook: Gone

LB Brady Poppinga

Poppinga was the only one of the linebackers three to come in as free agents last year and actually do something. Ben Leber and Zac Diles were complete busts, but Poppinga was delightfully average. I think the Rams will add some fresh faces this offseason, but I think Poppinga will at least be given a chance for a roster spot. He'll come cheap, and with cap space at a premium...well, you get my drift.

Outlook: Training Camp Fodder

CB Al Harris

Al Harris is looking at recovering from a bad injury and playing for one of the worst teams in the league last year. If that isn't cause to retire, I don't know what is. I don't think he will be playing in 2012.

Outlook: Gone

CB Rod Hood

Hood came in when the injuries started to pile up. If the Rams are to pursue Cortland Finnegan, Hood might be one of those fringe guys the team brings in to compete for one of those final CB spots. He's a veteran, so he might help develop younger players and has dealt with injuries, so he might know ways for Bradley Fletcher and Jerome Murphy to recover quicker (okay, I'm really reaching there). Last but not least, the Titans picked him up in 2009, so Fisher has some experience with him.

Outlook: Training Camp Fodder

CB Justin King

Sigh. I promised TST brass that I'd do a post on all the defensive free agents. Justin King is one of them. Yeah, yeah, yeah. He got a little better as time went on. A little. That's like saying Alex Barron didn't hold all the time. It's false logic, and I'll have none of it here.

Outlook: You've got to be kidding me.

2012 NFL Free Agency: Previewing the St. Louis Rams

WesHanson — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 18:00:34 -0000

So earlier this week, we kicked off the Free Agency Preview posts with fireworks and celebrations, because after the Cardinals’ last season, they sure didn’t have a party (lol non-playoff teams!). This week, we will be taking a look at the St. Louis Rams.

The Rams are in a pretty interesting position, actually. They have the most important position pretty much set for the near future in Sam Bradford. Now, it’s all about building the supporting cast. As such, while they do have problems on defense, I expect that most of this offseason will be about building the offense.

The obvious big need for the Rams is pretty well covered by, well, everybody. Bradford does not have a soul to throw to. At least, not many receivers. Lance Kendricks, their TE, is pretty much all-around stud. That’s how he introduces himself at parties: "Hi, I’m all-around stud and lone bright star on a poor offense."

But, yes, the receivers. Brandon Lloyd is a good catcher of footballs. I remember his time with the 49ers quite fondly – and by that, I remember the highlight reels and not the separation problems he had against physical corners. Regardless, I think the Rams make it a priority to resign Lloyd.

Moreover, the Front Office will probably want to look to picking up some combination of WRs from FA or the Draft (we will cover their Draft positioning more closely after FA ends, so patience!).

Another big need for the Rams is the Offensive Line. Let’s put it this way: do you remember Tony Wragge? Yeah, he started 8 games for the team and, if resigned, would be in a competition for a starting spot, from what I understand.
Bradford was horribly plagued by injuries last year, and a broken down line was to blame. Big time.

On defense, the Rams have their Patrick Willis in Chris Long, their stud DE. That, however, does not speak to how crappy the Defensive Tackle position is. If they want to compete in the rush heavy NFC West, then the Rams are going to have to pick up a DT.

Similarly, I think the Rams could look to FA for a shiny, new Outside Linebacker.

Unrestricted Free Agents: QB Kellen Clemens, QB A.J. Feeley, RB Jerious Norwood, RB Cadillac Williams, WR Mark Clayton, WR Brandon Lloyd, TE Billy Bajema, TE Stephen Spach, OL Jacob Bell, OL Adam Goldberg, OL Mark LeVoir, OL Tony Wragge, DT Gary Gibson, LB Chris Chamberlain, LB Bryan Kehl, LB Brady Poppinga, CB Al Harris, CB Rod Hood, CB Justin King, S James Butler, P Donnie Jones.

Restricted Free Agents: DE C.J. Ah You, WR Danny Amendola.

Exclusive Rights Free Agents: QB Tom Brandstater, WR Dominique Curry, DT Jermelle Cudjo, OL Bryan Mattison, FB Brit Miller, S Darian Stewart.

Da Chronic's Got Talent: Divine Nine

Dave Cariello — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:00:17 -0000

No, we are not finished with our search for fresh new front page talent here on Canal Street Chronicles, to make the best Saints blog on the net even better. Here is yet another audition candidate.

In case you missed the introduction to our little talent search here, be sure to read it first before continuing. Remember, any and all criticism must be 100% constructive and positive in nature. Keep Da Chronic classy!

Please welcome the next contestant of Da Chronic's Got Talent! S/he is willing to contribute once, maybe twice a month.

Losing Heat: What Saints Defenders Might Follow Williams to the Rams?

When Payton and Loomis brought in Dr. Heat, New Orleans scored more than just a blitz-happy coordinator, prone to gems such as, "I have guys that couldn't catch a cold butt naked in a rain storm." Our dearly departed Gregg Williams also brought a slew of former players sold on his brand of damned if you do, damned if you do defense. Okay, to be fair, that defense, helped seal the deal on New Orleans' first-ever Super Bowl. For that, Dr. Heat should always have a special place in Whodat hearts.

But players have followed Williams when he's left other teams. This raises two questions: Which Saints might follow Williams to St. Louis? And are there any Ram defenders who might follow Spagnuolo to New Orleans?

After the Super Bowl win (and just before the "No Catching M*&^@-*F%*%R" clip), I think the best thing Greg-with-two-Gs, brought us is Jabari Greer (Nobody Understands Him!). He's been the most reliable and probably the best corner we've had-Porter's 2009 playoff performance not withstanding- since he's arrived.

Jabari is the best player who followed Dr. Heat, but not the only one. To my count, we also signed Clint Ingram, Pierson Prioleau, and Paul Spicer. (Bobby McCray and Leigh Torrence signed before Gregg, I think, but please tell me if I'm missing anyone.) Of the three Not-Jabari's, Prioleau is the only one who really got playing time, but he was a solid special teams and locker room guy, and if Ingram had been healthy, who knows.

We've got Jabari wrapped up through 2012, so we don't have to worry about him headed up-River in Williams' wake for a bit. However, homegrown UFA talents Jo-Lonn Dunbar and Tracy Porter have thrived to some extent in Williams' system. Would Williams' draw be enough for them to leave a contender like the Saints for the uncertainty of Fisher's Rams?

If Spagnuolo has the same pied-piper effect, could we end up with a Jabari 2.0 if a few of Spags' former players decide to come along for the ride?

It wouldn't be the first time. Three former Giants' defenders followed Spags to St. Louis: Fred Robbins, James Butler, and Craig Dahl. Granted, the Rams' defense wasn't exactly on fire this year. In fact, the Rams' 22-ranked defense was pretty bad, short of one given Sunday against the Saints. But, it's the off-season, and it's all hopes and dreams from now until pre-season (just as soon as we can wipe the bitter taste of Air Alex out of our mouths).

According to ESPN Insiders, here are the top four 2012 Rams free agent defenders:

Seventh-year UFA OLB, Brady Poppinga is the highest rated of the bunch, scoring a 62*.

According to ESPN Insiders:

Poppinga doesn't have outstanding raw talent but wins with toughness, intensity, intelligence and technique. He is a high-motor player who is a bit of an overachiever. He uses his hands well and understands how to leverage blockers at the point of attack. Poppinga is a solid tackler and runs well in pursuit, but lacks great lateral agility to redirect in space. He can be a liability in pure man coverage but is effective in combination zone schemes. He has never really developed as a pass rusher, and with Clay Matthews ahead of him on the depth chart Popinga will likely make his biggest contributions on special teams.

*62 isn't great, but they score Jo-Lonn Dunbar a 62, and I think we all agree that he did a fine job filling in for Vilma this year.

Next up is fifth-year UFA DT Gary Gibson, who scores a 61.

According to ESPN Insiders:

In 2009 he signed with St. Louis and has worked his way up to being their starting right DT. In 2010 he played in and started all 16 games and finished with 18 tackles on the year. He has adequate size for the position with good initial quickness and shows good awareness of blocking schemes as well as an understanding of how to keep his pad level down to leverage and squeeze blocks down. He lacks the strength to plug things up when double teamed but can penetrate gaps and knows how to use his hands to defeat and shed blocks. He is a good fighter in the trenches and shows excellent effort from snap to whistle.

Ninth-year UFA CB Roderick Hood and fourth-year UFA OLB Bryan Kehl round things out, both scoring a 59.

Again, according to ESPN Insiders:

Hood has athleticism and good downfield speed. He can extend the cushion with a fluid, easy backpedal and can flip his hips to turn and run with receivers deep. He shows good transition quickness and can close on the ball in front of him with a burst. He shows above-average route awareness and the ability to read the quarterback's eyes from off coverage.

And...

Kehl has developed into a nice sub-package substitute and role player. He brings a nice combination of size, speed and athletic ability and understands the defensive schemes used by the Rams. He lacks great upper-body strength and could do a better job of using his hands to defeat and shed blockers. He shows good agility and foot speed when dropping into space and can lock on most tight ends and running backs on downfield routes.

None of these players sound like the kind of get-after-the-quarterback difference-maker the Saints go after each year but never seem to land. Then again, with the big three of Brees, Nicks, and Colston looming in free agency this year, likely the best we can hope for in free agency is to pick up a couple of solid defenders who might be special team standouts and just maybe, just maybe, might even find a second life down in New Orleans. It's happened before.

Poll

Would you like Candidate #9 to become a regular front page contributor?

Yes

57 votes

No

9 votes

Neutral

9 votes

Undecided. Need to see more.

13 votes

88 votes | Poll has closed

Packers 2012 Free Agents: Jarrett Bush

Brandon — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:00:39 -0000

The Green Bay Packers usually make the right move with their personnel and coaching decisions, but there have been a few that defy explanation. First, Ted Thompson's love of signing middling linebackers to multi-year contracts (A.J. Hawk, Brady Poppinga, Brandon Chillar). Second, the retention of special teams coach Shawn Slocum in the face of disastrous seasons in 2009 and 2010 (to his credit, the special teams were pretty good in 2011). Third, that CB Jarrett Bush has received substantial playing time over the past six seasons.

		Sacks		Interceptions			Tackles
	G	Sacks	YdsL	Int	Yds	IntTD	Solo	Ast	Total
2011 - Jarrett Bush	12	1.5	13	2	39	0	19	3	22

Just as Dr. Strangelove learned to love the bomb, I've come to accept that he'll always have a place on the Packers roster. Does he deserve it? Isn't there anyone better? These are irrelevant questions. The Packers want him out there.

The only question is whether they'll be able to. Despite their infatuation with him, they haven't been eager to start him. They've been content to let him play a poor man's Charles Woodson (when Woodson was held out of a game or when he was injured during the Super Bowl), and become a leader on special teams.

The last time he was a free agent, the Titans actually offered him a multi-year contract, but the Packers matched it. Now with a Super Bowl ring to his name, it's possible some team might view him as a legitimate nickel cornerback. If he received a contract equal to that of a low-end starter, I don't think the Packers would offer him the same. Of course, that depends on whether another team is so thin at cornerback that they'd offer him more than a couple million per season.

Poll

What will the Packers do with Jarrett Bush next season?

Re-sign him

436 votes

Let him go

774 votes

1210 votes | Poll has closed