Welcome to the new year.
After winning their Super Bowl in week 17, the Bears are raising ticket prices by an average of 10% for the upcoming season.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on February 19, 2025, 01:09:03 PMWelcome to the new year.
After winning their Super Bowl in week 17, the Bears are raising ticket prices by an average of 10% for the upcoming season.
If the state won't make taxpayers fund Kevin Warren's lakefront palace, somebody's got to.
I refuse to acknowledge 2025. I will post in NFL 2024.
Season doesn't start for me until the league does right by Anders.
New season, same curse.
Predictions for Justin Tucker in the 2025 season?
Quote from: jesmu84 on February 19, 2025, 06:40:40 PMPredictions for Justin Tucker in the 2025 season?
2 - 4 years and civil judgment in the millions?
A white guy who assaults women?
He'll probably get a contract extension.
Quote from: Jockey on February 19, 2025, 09:16:00 PMA white guy who assaults women?
He'll probably get a contract extension.
Oh yeah, good one Jockey. Deshaun Watson sound familiar? Let me help you, $230M guaranteed after more than 20 women came forward.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on February 19, 2025, 06:43:59 PM2 - 4 years and civil judgment in the millions?
4-5 years to judge
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on February 19, 2025, 10:51:32 PMOh yeah, good one Jockey. Deshaun Watson sound familiar? Let me help you, $230M guaranteed after more than 20 women came forward.
Thk u for supporting equal opportunity misogyny Hutch
Quote from: Shaka Shart on February 20, 2025, 12:07:51 PMThk u for supporting equal opportunity misogyny Hutch
No, that isn't even close. Just pointing out how incredibly stupid the racial comment was.
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on February 20, 2025, 01:05:13 PMNo, that isn't even close. Just pointing out how incredibly stupid the racial comment was.
(https://media1.tenor.com/m/v6yJ1O2OhrgAAAAd/the-simpsons-men.gif)
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on February 20, 2025, 01:05:13 PMNo, that isn't even close. Just pointing out how incredibly stupid the racial comment was.
Welcome to
MUScoop the internet.
Bad offseason for Dallas just got worse.
Zack Martin is retiring.
Quote from: Pakuni on February 20, 2025, 04:23:55 PMBad offseason for Dallas just got worse.
Zack Martin is retiring.
Hard reset.
Quote from: Pakuni on February 20, 2025, 04:23:55 PMBad offseason for Dallas just got worse.
Zack Martin is retiring.
Martin perfectly highlights the fascinating duality of Offensive Linemen. He's the best OL since Joe Thomas and quite possibly a top 5 OL of all time. But he's not a household name, not even among average NFL fans. But unlike some positions that aren't as widely known to casuals, OL are highly paid commiserate to their value.
I consider myself a big fan of the NFL, and had no clue he was a 7 time first team all pro. and two time second team all pro. In an 11 year career. The only years he missed were likely because of injury. That is nutty.
Quote from: Hards Alumni on February 21, 2025, 09:53:50 AMI consider myself a big fan of the NFL, and had no clue he was a 7 time first team all pro. and two time second team all pro. In an 11 year career. The only years he missed were likely because of injury. That is nutty.
He had more All Pro selections than holding penalties called against him in his career.
Stafford has been given permission to seek a trade out of LA. Where would he be the missing piece for a couple of seasons?
Quote from: tower912 on February 22, 2025, 04:14:39 PMStafford has been given permission to seek a trade out of LA. Where would he be the missing piece for a couple of seasons?
His brother-in-law just got hired as the Giants' assistant QB coach.
Daboll and Schoen arguably can't wait for a rookie QB to develop.
Makes you go hmmmm.
Quote from: tower912 on February 22, 2025, 04:14:39 PMStafford has been given permission to seek a trade out of LA. Where would he be the missing piece for a couple of seasons?
Who are the Rams going to plug in? He's still a top 15 QB on a good team. I could understand the Rams taking a QB in the first round but I don't get letting Stafford walk from a playoff quality team.
Quote from: tower912 on February 22, 2025, 04:14:39 PMStafford has been given permission to seek a trade out of LA. Where would he be the missing piece for a couple of seasons?
You know the answer to this
Quote from: tower912 on February 22, 2025, 04:14:39 PMStafford has been given permission to seek a trade out of LA. Where would he be the missing piece for a couple of seasons?
Lions
Quote from: Pakuni on February 22, 2025, 04:17:49 PMHis brother-in-law just got hired as the Giants' assistant QB coach.
Daboll and Schoen arguably can't wait for a rookie QB to develop.
Makes you go hmmmm.
Supposedly Matthew's wife was quoted recently about interest in living in greater New York (or something like that).
Quote from: GB Warrior on February 22, 2025, 06:21:27 PMLions
I think Stafford is a better QB than Goff. However, like Shaka, I think the power structure at Detroit wants it to be about culture. Bringing Stafford back and dumping Goff would be too expensive, too disruptive, and hypocritical. (From their perspective)
Quote from: tower912 on February 23, 2025, 07:52:39 AMI think Stafford is a better QB than Goff. However, like Shaka, I think the power structure at Detroit wants it to be about culture. Bringing Stafford back and dumping Goff would be too expensive, too disruptive, and hypocritical. (From their perspective)
Depending on what they think of Goff's ability to lead them to a Super Bowl, it could be a nice bit of business for the Lions.
Stafford's cap hit the next two seasons is $49.7 million and $53.7 million. The actual cash payout is $27 million and $31 million.
For Goff, the numbers are $32.6 million next year, but then $69.6 million in 2026. Cash figures are $18 million and $55 million.
So, there's a little cap savings with Goff for 2025, but then he costs quite a bit more in 2026 and is more expensive in terms of actual dollars over the two seasons.
But then, Stafford is an free agent in 2027 (if he's even still playing), whereas the Lions are on the hook for another year of Goff, with a $54.6 million cap hit and $40 million cash. Those probably aren't huge numbers in 2027, but they're a drag if Goff proves unable to get the team to a Super Bowl the next two seasons.
I don't see why the Rams would want Goff in return. If they're really going to move on from Stafford, it's to move on from his contract. And given the dead cap they'd need to absorb by trading him (nearly $50 million), I can't imagine they'd want another big contract in return.
Guys I was kidding.
I think this is the Rams way to do two things at once - find fair market value is for Stafford at this stage in his career, and find trade value if FMV outpaces their willingness to pay.
I'd put the chances of him being traded at about 25%
Quote from: GB Warrior on February 23, 2025, 09:32:39 AMGuys I was kidding.
I think this is the Rams way to do two things at once - find fair market value is for Stafford at this stage in his career, and find trade value if FMV outpaces their willingness to pay.
I'd put the chances of him being traded at about 25%
Use teal
Quote from: Pakuni on February 23, 2025, 08:44:59 AMBut then, Stafford is an free agent in 2027 (if he's even still playing), whereas the Lions are on the hook for another year of Goff, with a $54.6 million cap hit and $40 million cash. Those probably aren't huge numbers in 2027, but they're a drag if Goff proves unable to get the team to a Super Bowl the next two seasons.
By your reasoning, the Ravens should dump Lamar cuz he can't get them to a Super Bowl (and probably never will). It seems awful cavalier to suggest dumping Goff who is still one of the better QBs in the League when you look at the QB wilderness that so many teams are stuck in. His money is not unreasonable for a guy in his prime who gets the playoffs almost every year and has won a SB.
As a Packers fan, I would love to see the Lions dump Goff, but it ain't happenin'.
Quote from: Jockey on February 23, 2025, 11:12:32 AMBy your reasoning, the Ravens should dump Lamar cuz he can't get them to a Super Bowl (and probably never will). It seems awful cavalier to suggest dumping Goff who is still one of the better QBs in the League when you look at the QB wilderness that so many teams are stuck in. His money is not unreasonable for a guy in his prime who gets the playoffs almost every year and has won a SB.
As a Packers fan, I would love to see the Lions dump Goff, but it ain't happenin'.
Which Super Bowl did Goff win?
You're just making stuff up here.
Notwithstanding your insane analogizing of Lamar to Jared Goff - one drives his team's success, the other is more of a passenger - I didn't write that the Lions should "dump Goff." I wrote that
if the Lions believe Goff can't get them a Super Bowl, it makes sense to look elsewhere. Because they otherwise have a Super Bowl roster which eventually will get wasted
if they don't believe Goff can be that guy.
These are the tough decisions teams need to make to win championships.
Jockey just wants to remind everyone of his absurd Lamar takes every so often.
Quote from: Pakuni on February 23, 2025, 11:36:02 AMWhich Super Bowl did Goff win?
You're just making stuff up here.
Notwithstanding your insane analogizing of Lamar to Jared Goff - one drives his team's success, the other is more of a passenger - I didn't write that the Lions should "dump Goff." I wrote that if the Lions believe Goff can't get them a Super Bowl, it makes sense to look elsewhere. Because they otherwise have a Super Bowl roster which eventually will get wasted if they don't believe Goff can be that guy.
These are the tough decisions teams need to make to win championships.
I wrote it wrong - meant to say he has been to a SB.
Lamar may have the best roster round him and can't get to one. He is another iteration of ARod - an MVP-caliber QB who for 10 Years & numerous MVPs wasn't able to get to a SB. Once Lamar gets to an actual SB, I'll change my opinion on his degree of greatness.
I just think Goff needs a bit more roster construction to get over the hump than other good QBs. Needs one more WR. Can you imagine him and Lamar on the same team?
Quote from: GB Warrior on February 23, 2025, 01:37:37 PMI just think Goff needs a bit more roster construction to get over the hump than other good QBs. Needs one more WR. Can you imagine him and Lamar on the same team?
That's reasonable, but he got to a SB with worse RB and TE and comparable WRs than what he has in Detroit.
Quote from: Jockey on February 23, 2025, 01:32:54 PMI wrote it wrong - meant to say he has been to a SB.
Lamar may have the best roster round him and can't get to one. He is another iteration of ARod - an MVP-caliber QB who for 10 Years & numerous MVPs wasn't able to get to a SB. Once Lamar gets to an actual SB, I'll change my opinion on his degree of greatness.
No, Lamar does not have the best roster around him, especially at the skill positions.
He's never had a Pro Bowl receiver and he's had just one receiver who's gone over 1,000 yards (and that was 1,059 in 17 games this year).
He's been his team's leading rusher every year except 2024.
Especially on offense, no one is taking the Ravens roster ahead of Detroit's.
The whole "never been to a Super Bowl" argument is silly.
Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson and Justin Herbert have never been to a Super Bowl.
Jimmy Garappolo, Brock Purdy and Jared Goff have.
Which group are you taking?
Quote from: Shaka Shart on February 23, 2025, 10:47:23 AMUse teal
Teal is discriminatory against color blind MU fans.
Me suggesting use teal should have been in teal
If you can't beat it, ban it?
https://x.com/DMRussini/status/1894109546714456120
Quote from: Pakuni on February 24, 2025, 06:39:15 PMIf you can't beat it, ban it?
https://x.com/DMRussini/status/1894109546714456120
The Chicago Bears submitted a plan to the NFL to ban annual ass kickings by the Packers.
I think a team should hire a very small player, and catapult them downfield each play. Might be able to get 3 yards per play and be unstoppable.
In all seriousness, the Tush-Push should be made illegal again (would have been illegal pre-2006).
Quote from: forgetful on February 25, 2025, 10:34:11 PMI think a team should hire a very small player, and catapult them downfield each play. Might be able to get 3 yards per play and be unstoppable.
In all seriousness, the Tush-Push should be made illegal again (would have been illegal pre-2006).
And Muggsy would finally get the respect he deserves
Quote from: BM1090 on February 25, 2025, 11:30:28 PMAnd Muggsy would finally get the respect he deserves
Peyton manning like calling out "Omaha" but it's "Manatee"
Quote from: Pakuni on February 24, 2025, 06:39:15 PMIf you can't beat it, ban it?
https://x.com/DMRussini/status/1894109546714456120
One thing I heard is that a number of teams want to ban this but that Mark Murphy and the Packers agreed to submit it because it's his last meeting.
Most likely he did it to suck up to the chiefs to Taylor swift plays at lambeau on her next tour.
The NFLPA's annual report card is out.
You'll never guess who the worst owners are.
Kidding, you all know already.
https://nflpa.com/report-cards/2025
Quote from: Pakuni on February 26, 2025, 02:15:20 PMThe NFLPA's annual report card is out.
You'll never guess who the worst owners are.
Kidding, you all know already.
https://nflpa.com/report-cards/2025
New England and Pitt are "D"s? I did not expect that. The media tells us they are the best.
Miami very good?
https://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/1894831950478877046
I thought Bears ownership was the worst in sports history? Or the worst ownership in any industry ever. That's what some Scoopers have said, at least.
Brady wining and dining Stafford. LV?
We've got a good old-fashioned NFL insiders donnybrook.
https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/jordan-schultz-verbally-accosted-ian-rapoport-at-a-starbucks-in-indianapolis
Looks like Stafford is going to stay in LA on a restructured deal and Packers are going after DK Metcalf.
Quote from: CreightonWarrior on February 28, 2025, 01:16:46 PMLooks like Stafford is going to stay in LA on a restructured deal and Packers are going after DK Metcalf.
Raiders beat writer is reporting that the Rams asked for the #6 overall pick before restructuring Stafford and Vegas said no.
Quote from: CreightonWarrior on February 28, 2025, 01:16:46 PMLooks like Stafford is going to stay in LA on a restructured deal and Packers are going after DK Metcalf.
Maybe we should offer all our unwanted pieces like Jaire and Doubs. Works in Madden.
Quote from: Pakuni on February 28, 2025, 02:19:17 PMRaiders beat writer is reporting that the Rams asked for the #6 overall pick before restructuring Stafford and Vegas said no.
Good for both the Raiders and the Rams. Stafford isn't worth the 6th pick and the Rams should keep Stafford, who is still very good on a good team.
Deebo Samuel to Washington for a 5th-round pick. Shazam.
Quote from: MU82 on March 02, 2025, 02:28:38 AMDeebo Samuel to Washington for a 5th-round pick. Shazam.
One of the most remarkable immediate turnarounds I've seen in the NFL in a long time. Yes, Daniels was great. But Peters, the new GM who came in with new ownership, signed 25+ FAs and absolutely CRUSHED it. Signed 4 guys who became All-Pros this year, on both sides of the ball, and now follows it up adding another huge weapon (provided he stays healthy) for Daniels. Just astounding
Definitely a shot across the bow of the rest of the NFC.
Quote from: JWags85 on March 02, 2025, 09:04:18 AMOne of the most remarkable immediate turnarounds I've seen in the NFL in a long time. Yes, Daniels was great. But Peters, the new GM who came in with new ownership, signed 25+ FAs and absolutely CRUSHED it. Signed 4 guys who became All-Pros this year, on both sides of the ball, and now follows it up adding another huge weapon (provided he stays healthy) for Daniels. Just astounding
At the price of a 5th round pick it's worth a risk on a guy who maybe will be rejuvenated by a change of scenery combined with heading into a possible free-agent year.
Realistically, they aren't getting 2021 Deebo - he hasn't been that guy in a while - but a low-risk, potentially good reward move.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 02, 2025, 11:14:26 AMAt the price of a 5th round pick it's worth a risk on a guy who maybe will be rejuvenated by a change of scenery combined with heading into a possible free-agent year.
Realistically, they aren't getting 2021 Deebo - he hasn't been that guy in a while - but a low-risk, potentially good reward move.
Agree 100%. Basically a risk-free acquisition of a talented, experienced player.
Jimmy Johnson retiring from the Fox studio show.
Now Terry Bradshaw needs to follow him.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 03, 2025, 01:03:37 PMJimmy Johnson retiring from the Fox studio show.
Now Terry Bradshaw needs to follow him.
He should have preceded him
Bears getting Jonah Jackson from the Rams for a 6th round pick.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 04, 2025, 11:45:54 AMBears getting Jonah Jackson from the Rams for a 6th round pick.
Whale of a trade.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 03, 2025, 01:03:37 PMJimmy Johnson retiring from the Fox studio show.
Now Terry Bradshaw needs to follow him.
I wonder how much Jimmy got paid to make one obvious observation a week. Same with most others on these 5- and 6-person NFL panels.
Bradshaw is so bad that it's almost endearing. Plus, it's employing a guy who took a lot of hits to the head on behalf of the NFL.
Jets cutting Devante Adams. Would've been silly to trade for him.
Quote from: CreightonWarrior on March 04, 2025, 12:35:18 PMJets cutting Devante Adams. Would've been silly to trade for him.
Hard to believe nobody wants to take on a $38.2 million cap hit for a mercurial 32-year-old receiver.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 04, 2025, 11:51:11 AMWhale of a trade.
Decent potential for a 6th round pick. I have to assume a contract restructure is in the works.
Quote from: MU82 on March 04, 2025, 11:57:05 AMI wonder how much Jimmy got paid to make one obvious observation a week. Same with most others on these 5- and 6-person NFL panels.
Bradshaw is so bad that it's almost endearing. Plus, it's employing a guy who took a lot of hits to the head on behalf of the NFL.
Keeping Bradshaw elevates the perceived insights of Gronk
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 04, 2025, 01:26:53 PMDecent potential for a 6th round pick. I have to assume a contract restructure is in the works.
Bears have zero leverage for a restructure unless they want to give a healthy guarantee for 2026 (they don't want to).
This is at best a mediocre trade based on a $17M payday for 2025.
Quote from: CreightonWarrior on March 04, 2025, 12:35:18 PMJets cutting Devante Adams. Would've been silly to trade for him.
Will the Packers re-sign him?
Quote from: Dish on March 04, 2025, 07:33:35 PMBears have zero leverage for a restructure unless they want to give a healthy guarantee for 2026 (they don't want to).
This is at best a mediocre trade based on a $17M payday for 2025.
Jackson is a good player, but yeah, $17 million is a hefty price for a guard who's missed 18 games the past two seasons.
Quote from: forgetful on March 04, 2025, 07:44:02 PMWill the Packers re-sign him?
Well... In the end I doubt it, but I think they will at least look at it.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 04, 2025, 08:11:21 PMWell... In the end I doubt it, but I think they will at least look at it.
I think it's Adams decision first and foremost.
Quote from: Dish on March 04, 2025, 07:33:35 PMBears have zero leverage for a restructure unless they want to give a healthy guarantee for 2026 (they don't want to).
This is at best a mediocre trade based on a $17M payday for 2025.
They could cut him. I'd hope they would have negotiated a deal prior to trading.
Bears trading for another guard.
This time it's Joe Thuney from the Chefs for a 4th round pick.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 05, 2025, 09:30:27 AMBears trading for another guard.
This time it's Joe Thuney from the Chefs for a 4th round pick.
That's a good trade for the Bears. He is older, but that line needs a veteran presense. And he is only under contract for one more season. The Chiefs had his replacement set, which is one of the reasons he was moved to LT - where he was a disaster against the Eagles.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 05, 2025, 09:35:24 AMThat's a good trade for the Bears. He is older, but that line needs a veteran presense. And he is only under contract for one more season. The Chiefs had his replacement set, which is one of the reasons he was moved to LT - where he was a disaster against the Eagles.
I suppose it is decent in light of the fact that decent OL players don't hit FA so trades are the only option. Hate giving up draft capital when the Bears need more than just a better O-Line. I think the two trades opens up the option with going with a D-Lineman in the 1st round.
EDIT - I see it is a 2026 4th round pick that makes it a little better, plus the Bears will be picking 32nd each round in next years draft. (LOL)
(I give the Bears credit for at least trying to win as opposed to the Bulls and White Sox.)
Johnson watched Detroit get better by building up the lines and balancing the offense.
Jackson + Thuney for 4th/6th are good moves for this team without giving up too much.
Especially considering the amount of cap space and 3 top 40 picks.
I don't personally expect Super Bowl next season, so good opportunities to make the team better in the short and long term with these moves.
I would now expect them to go BPA/d-line with the 3 picks
Quote from: jesmu84 on March 05, 2025, 10:56:53 AMJackson + Thuney for 4th/6th are good moves for this team without giving up too much.
Especially considering the amount of cap space and 3 top 40 picks.
I don't personally expect Super Bowl next season, so good opportunities to make the team better in the short and long term with these moves.
I would now expect them to go BPA/d-line with the 3 picks
As much as I like to rag on the Bears (it's so easy) - these were both good moves. Thuney is still close to the top of his game. Jackson's a little more iffy, but a good guy to take a chance on for that cost. They have the money for the next few years, so use it where it helps the most.
Will the Bears bring their offseason championship trophy with them to Green Bay for the draft?
For the record I like both of these moves for them (especially Thuney)
Bears got fleeced
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 05, 2025, 12:54:19 PMBears got fleeced
Don't worry. The NFL will step in and void the trades.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 05, 2025, 01:34:19 PMDon't worry. The NFL will step in and void the trades.
The NFL hates the Bears. Its a well known fact. They're still not over the "Rozelle" headband.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 05, 2025, 01:40:44 PMThe NFL hates the Bears. Its a well known fact. They're still not over the "Rozelle" headband.
;D
The NFL's Hiroshima
Pretty happy with the two trades for the Bears, especially Thuney.
Cost them minimal draft capital and they have more than enough cap space. Once Trey Smith was franchised the options in free agency were mediocre. If either guy doesn't work out there is no longer term cap issues if they move.
Also adds a ton of flexibility in their approach to free agency and the draft.
Maxx Crosby is now the league's highest-paid non-QB.
At least until Micah Parsons signs his next contract.
Aidan Hutchinson is pleased.
Quote from: GB Warrior on March 05, 2025, 12:07:46 PMWill the Bears bring their offseason championship trophy with them to Green Bay for the draft?
For the record I like both of these moves for them (especially Thuney)
It is an unimpressive trophy compared to the "it took a blocked field goal to beat a laughingstock team 1 of 2 times"
DK Metcalf asks for a trade. Seahawks taking offers.
Quote from: MU82 on March 05, 2025, 05:26:16 PMDK Metcalf asks for a trade. Seahawks taking offers.
The Packers should be interested, right?
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 05, 2025, 07:41:55 PMThe Packers should be interested, right?
Imagine his old coach might be interested in bringing him to Vegas.
They have no one to throw the ball, but Metcalf-Meyers-Bowers would be a pretty fun trio.
The player the Packers should trade assets for is Trey Hendrickson, not Metcalfe.
They need an alpha at WR but give me a dude who sacks the QB
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 06, 2025, 05:07:28 PMThe player the Packers should trade assets for is Trey Hendrickson, not Metcalfe.
They need an alpha at WR but give me a dude who sacks the QB
I hope the Bears are very much in on Hendrickson. I love that dude, that Week 18 game against Pittsburgh, he was a one man wrecking crew.
He's a young 30 (won't turn 31 until December), been remarkably healthy, and I think a 4 year deal (guaranteed money for 3 years) will end up being a good deal for a team with future cap space flexibility.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 06, 2025, 05:07:28 PMThe player the Packers should trade assets for is Trey Hendrickson, not Metcalfe.
They need an alpha at WR but give me a dude who sacks the QB
He's great. But I will be floored if Metcalf fetches even close to the same amount of capital...If either is even really available.
Trading Hendrickson would be something given how barren that defense is already.
Quote from: GB Warrior on March 06, 2025, 08:41:41 PMHe's great. But I will be floored if Metcalf fetches even close to the same amount of capital...If either is even really available.
Trading Hendrickson would be something given how barren that defense is already.
It's the Bengals
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 07, 2025, 07:09:31 AMIt's the Bengals
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/00/77/9e/00779e5a7ed256a2318809b73a3cbcfc.gif)
Lions re-sign Barnes. If they stay healthy, Barnes, Campbell, and Anzalone are a solid LB trio.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 07, 2025, 07:09:31 AMIt's the Bengals
What will it take?
I don't think the Bengals will feet a 1st in the deal. Would you give a 2nd this year, a 3rd next year and LVN?
Quote from: Jockey on March 07, 2025, 11:32:01 AMWhat will it take?
I don't think the Bengals will feet a 1st in the deal. Would you give a 2nd this year, a 3rd next year and LVN?
He'll be a popular target because it's doubtful Cincinnati cuts him, so you'll have to pony up. If all it costs is a 3rd and LVN, it's a fireable offense not to make the deal
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 07, 2025, 12:00:34 PMHe'll be a popular target because it's doubtful Cincinnati cuts him, so you'll have to pony up. If all it costs is a 3rd and LVN, it's a fireable offense not to make the deal
If things worked like the NBA, the Packers might have to give up a 3rd just to get someone to take LVN.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 07, 2025, 12:00:34 PMHe'll be a popular target because it's doubtful Cincinnati cuts him, so you'll have to pony up. If all it costs is a 3rd and LVN, it's a fireable offense not to make the deal
The pony-ing up will be giving him a 3-year, $80m+ extension.
Geno Smith to the Raiders for a 3rd.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 07, 2025, 06:16:10 PMGeno Smith to the Raiders for a 3rd.
What on earth are the Seahawks doing
Quote from: GB Warrior on March 07, 2025, 06:41:27 PMWhat on earth are the Seahawks doing
My guess is that they are targeting Darnold. Quite a few years younger. And a 3rd for Geno is a pretty good deal.
Quote from: Jockey on March 07, 2025, 07:02:37 PMMy guess is that they are targeting Darnold. Quite a few years younger. And a 3rd for Geno is a pretty good deal.
Darnold behind that line will not just be seeing ghosts but will be turning into one
Gotta admit this one surprised me. Geno has weaknesses but he's been a legit NFL QB for years. Darnold sure as shyte can't say that ... and now he's about to get handed a sh!t-ton of money to go along with responsibility he hasn't shown he can handle.
Then again, it's scary if the Seahawks don't get him, too. There ain't nothing else out there.
I might be a Seahawks fan from afar
Close the book on Darnold for me!!1
Quote from: GB Warrior on March 07, 2025, 06:41:27 PMWhat on earth are the Seahawks doing
Isn't Pete Carroll the one who turned him into a legit starting QB?
https://x.com/WillKunkelFOX/status/1898383018735067200
The chiefs way
Rig games for them while they assault people on the side
Quote from: PGsHeroes32 on March 08, 2025, 10:37:15 AMThe chiefs way
Rig games for them while they assault people on the side
Chiefs heading into 2025 with their top two WRs facing jail time (and potentially long suspensions).
I will laugh if AR ends up a Viking.
Quote from: tower912 on March 07, 2025, 08:55:47 AMLions re-sign Barnes. If they stay healthy, Barnes, Campbell, and Anzalone are a solid LB trio.
Bringing Davenport back on a heavily incentived 1 year deal. So injury prone.
Myles Garrett gets a new deal.
Maxx Crosby's reign as the highest paid non-QB lasted a glorious four days.
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/44178418/sources-myles-garrett-browns-agree-record-contract-extension
Quote from: Pakuni on March 09, 2025, 11:03:54 AMMyles Garrett gets a new deal.
Maxx Crosby's reign as the highest paid non-QB lasted a glorious four days.
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/44178418/sources-myles-garrett-browns-agree-record-contract-extension
Well, Myles did say he wanted to win.
The Cowboys not locking up Parsons early, like the Bengals and Chase, is looking pretty foolish.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 09, 2025, 11:57:07 AMThe Cowboys not locking up Parsons early, like the Bengals and Chase, is looking pretty foolish.
Well, I wouldn't say they've been great in recent years in handling resigning their stars.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 09, 2025, 11:57:07 AMThe Cowboys not locking up Parsons early, like the Bengals and Chase, is looking pretty foolish.
This is what poorly run teams do. Price only goes up.
Now, that being said, the Browns have been successful at pissing off 31 other teams through market-resetting deals. They summarily ignored the Watson deal as the new standard (fully guaranteed) but will have a harder time ignoring this one. Will cost a lot of extra money for Parsons.
New contract for Trey Hendrickson goes up.
Cincy's return for him goes down. May not get a 1st back for him.
Aaron Jones staying in Minnesota.
Za'darius Smith is available.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 09, 2025, 03:54:18 PMAaron Jones staying in Minnesota.
Good for him. Rare move that worked out for everyone. I don't think Jones is as good for the Packers behind a bad run-blocking line
Devante Adams headed to the rams
Quote from: CreightonWarrior on March 09, 2025, 06:13:35 PMDevante Adams headed to the rams
That was nonsense the talk of him returning to GB. We don't need a guy entering his 33 year old season as our #1 WR, even #2. Plus the Packers do not bring back aging veterans. Never been their MO.
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on March 09, 2025, 06:23:24 PMThat was nonsense the talk of him returning to GB. We don't need a guy entering his 33 year old season as our #1 WR, even #2. Plus the Packers do not bring back aging veterans. Never been their MO.
It wasn't, but he's still a very good option and a man coverage beater they desperately need. He'll be a great fit for what the Rams need as well.
Quote from: GB Warrior on March 09, 2025, 06:33:54 PMIt wasn't, but he's still a very good option and a man coverage beater they desperately need. He'll be a great fit for what the Rams need as well.
Just wait until the youngsters blossom
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 09, 2025, 06:35:06 PMJust wait until the youngsters blossom
5 years to judge
DK Metcalf going to be traded to the Steelers.
Who throws him the ball?
Sell the team packers shareholders
Quote from: The Sultan on March 09, 2025, 06:50:35 PMDK Metcalf going to be traded to the Steelers.
Last player left in Seattle, please turn out the lights!
Quote from: GB Warrior on March 09, 2025, 06:53:41 PMSell the team packers shareholders
Is Jeff Janis still available?
Quote from: tower912 on March 09, 2025, 06:51:04 PMWho throws him the ball?
They're giving DK $30 million/year, which makes me think they expect to go cheap on QB. Running it back with Fields or Russ seems mostly likely. Would they give up more draft capital to move up for Sanders?
QB no matta
Quote from: MU82 on March 09, 2025, 08:26:40 PMQB no matta
"QBs? We don't need no stinkin QBs!"
I thought they were settling for a darn old retread.
I hope Drew Dalman signs anywhere but Chicago. Bears fans/Bears twitter will have you believe he's the second coming of Mike Webster.
Overpaying a lot to a mediocre player like Dalman is how you stay bad as an organization.
According to the reporting, Packers never made an offer to Adams or for DK. Not good.
Quote from: GB Warrior on March 09, 2025, 10:35:24 PMAccording to the reporting, Packers never made an offer to Adams or for DK. Not good.
Packers were never paying a receiver DK's contract.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 10, 2025, 03:45:00 AMPackers were never paying a receiver DK's contract.
Packers wideouts sure better take a big leap next year
A Lambeau leap?
Quote from: The Sultan on March 10, 2025, 03:45:00 AMPackers were never paying a receiver DK's contract.
Not surprised either with that price tag, but the margins to improve at that spot are now very slim
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 10, 2025, 06:45:09 AMPackers wideouts sure better take a big leap next year
Yes.
However my larger concern is an edge rusher. If the plan was to go all in for a guy like Hendrickson, I'm cool with that.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 10, 2025, 08:04:02 AMYes.
However my larger concern is an edge rusher. If the plan was to go all in for a guy like Hendrickson, I'm cool with that.
Likewise. I don't think they will, though. This draft isn't good enough to fill needs and get impact players. This is one to be willing to give up picks.
If they don't do something significant to improve the defense this year via free agency or trades, and simply stand pat and draft away, I hope the change in the President role will mean a harder look at what the GM is doing. They have dug themselves out of a bad cap situation, locked up their offense for awhile, but are woefully inadequate on the defensive line right now. To take a leap they need to take some chances.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 10, 2025, 08:05:36 AMLikewise. I don't think they will, though. This draft isn't good enough to fill needs and get impact players. This is one to be willing to give up picks.
The consensus on this draft is that there are just a handful of potentially elite players and after that, there's not a ton of space between guy #10 and guy #50.
Bad year to be picking in the teens and early 20s.
Panthers making Jaycee Horn the highest-paid CB in the league.
Not bad for a guy who's missed nearly as many games (31) as he's played (37) in his career.
Quote from: Dish on March 09, 2025, 09:09:26 PMI hope Drew Dalman signs anywhere but Chicago. Bears fans/Bears twitter will have you believe he's the second coming of Mike Webster.
Overpaying a lot to a mediocre player like Dalman is how you stay bad as an organization.
Welp.
Caleb's rookie contract gives margin for error for less than optimal contracts. Even the line graduating to 'meh' is a whole standard deviation from last year.
Quote from: GB Warrior on March 10, 2025, 11:40:08 AMCaleb's rookie contract gives margin for error for less than optimal contracts. Even the line graduating to 'meh' is a whole standard deviation from last year.
An improved offensive line isn't going to fix this.
https://www.reddit.com/r/nfl/comments/1ho9kxw/nfl_teams_by_sacks_attributed_to_the_qb_vs_the_ol/#lightbox
Quote from: Pakuni on March 10, 2025, 11:42:36 AMAn improved offensive line isn't going to fix this.
https://www.reddit.com/r/nfl/comments/1ho9kxw/nfl_teams_by_sacks_attributed_to_the_qb_vs_the_ol/#lightbox
No, but a better coach can.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 10, 2025, 11:42:36 AMAn improved offensive line isn't going to fix this.
https://www.reddit.com/r/nfl/comments/1ho9kxw/nfl_teams_by_sacks_attributed_to_the_qb_vs_the_ol/#lightbox
No it won't. Johnson is going to have to re-wire Caleb in that respect. But you do that by providing outlets for him where he can trust the system a bit. I thought that improved when Thomas Brown took over, and would expect a huge jump under Johnson.
Free agency is not a perfect allocation of resources but I'd be pleased if I'm a bears fan.
Sigh.
Quote from: GB Warrior on March 10, 2025, 11:40:08 AMCaleb's rookie contract gives margin for error for less than optimal contracts. Even the line graduating to 'meh' is a whole standard deviation from last year.
I agree with this. I complained / observed last season that the Bears would be a pretty good team is they could just get pedestrian O-line play.
Dalman is an overpay like Sweat, but I am in favor of this directionally. And, to make the most obvious statement in the world, they need to draft well to set themselves up when/if they have to pay Williams.
Dan Moore, $50M guaranteed!!!
Insane.
Quote from: Dish on March 10, 2025, 12:03:07 PMDan Moore, $50M guaranteed!!!
Insane.
This, on the other hand, is nuts. As is the bag that Kinlaw got from the Commanders
Quote from: Dish on March 10, 2025, 12:03:07 PMDan Moore, $50M guaranteed!!!
Insane.
I was just about to post this as our early leader for worst FA signing of the cycle.
The fact a OL-deficient team like the Steelers were happy to let Moore walk should tell you everything.
Watching these CB deals roll in, if I'm GB I'm sitting on Jaire for awhile. No rush...
Quote from: Pakuni on March 10, 2025, 11:42:36 AMAn improved offensive line isn't going to fix this.
https://www.reddit.com/r/nfl/comments/1ho9kxw/nfl_teams_by_sacks_attributed_to_the_qb_vs_the_ol/#lightbox
If this chart is accurate, Williams percentage of total sacks he is responsible for isn't great but better than Stroud, Stafford, Darnold, Herbert, Geno Smith?
Getting sacked a whole bunch increases the nominal total sure but the % isn't that much an outlier.
Lions add DJ Reed, lose Carlton Davis.
Darnold is a Seahawk.
Hope he got the bag, because I can't imagine any other reason he would go there.
Update: 3 years, $110 million ($55 million guaranteed).
Have to admit, with some of the crazy contracts being thrown around today, that's less than I expected for Darnold. That said, I'm not convinced he isn't a one-year wonder that fell into an ideal situation last year.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 10, 2025, 01:25:08 PMDarnold is a Seahawk.
Hope he got the bag, because I can't imagine any other reason he would go there.
Update: 3 years, $110 million ($55 million guaranteed).
Have to admit, with some of the crazy contracts being thrown around today, that's less than I expected for Darnold. That said, I'm not convinced he isn't a one-year wonder that fell into an ideal situation last year.
Since the NY teams were not an option, the market seems like the Seahawks and Steelers. Not all that robust.
Twitter was down today? Hahahahahahaha
Quote from: Pakuni on March 10, 2025, 01:25:08 PMDarnold is a Seahawk.
Hope he got the bag, because I can't imagine any other reason he would go there.
Update: 3 years, $110 million ($55 million guaranteed).
Have to admit, with some of the crazy contracts being thrown around today, that's less than I expected for Darnold. That said, I'm not convinced he isn't a one-year wonder that fell into an ideal situation last year.
I'm seeing 3 years, $100.5 million in multiple places (NFL.com, Yahoo, ESPN). The ESPN blurb when googling says $110M, but the headline and article say $100.5. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/44194464/sam-darnold-seahawks-3-year-1005m-deal-sources-say
I'm actually relieved that the contract wasn't worse, because I was reading reports over the weekend of possibly $40M+ per year, with up to $75M guaranteed ... so this was practically a bargain. I'm quite sure the Seahawks would have had to pay Geno more than they'll be paying Darnold.
I still wouldn't be surprised to see the Panthers take a flier on a QB on Day 2 of the draft with one of their extra picks so he could develop while Darnold plays. I've seen Milroe mentioned in The Athletic.
I was among the bazillions critical of Darnold's play at the end of last season - I mean, how could anybody not be? I'm an optimistic kind of guy, but this is a big "we'll see" for me. The Seahawks don't have the best OL in the world, and their WR corps has gone from one of the NFL's best to definitely not that. Darnold ain't gonna be able to just heave it up to JJ anymore.
2/40 with 30 guaranteed for Fields to the Jets
Josh Sweat to the Cardinals, Milton Williams to the Pats.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 10, 2025, 09:37:42 AMPanthers making Jaycee Horn the highest-paid CB in the league.
Not bad for a guy who's missed nearly as many games (31) as he's played (37) in his career.
Horn obviously shouldn't be the best-paid CB, but he is a real good player.
More importantly for him, he picked a good season to stay mostly healthy (15 starts) - right as the Panthers had to decide whether to pay him the big bucks or move on from him.
Bears sign Grady Jarrett.
Very good pickup if he has something left in the tank.
Aaron Banks to the Packers per reports
4 years $77M
TJ Slaton to the Bengals, 2 years $15.1M
Going to have to see the guaranteed money for Banks, because that 4/77 is a lot for a decent guard.
Laremy Tunsil being dealt to the Commanders for picks.
Packers sign a nickel CB. Raiders Nate Hobbs 4/$48. I got nothing here - any AFC West people have opinions?
Quote from: GB Warrior on March 10, 2025, 04:03:09 PMPackers sign a nickel CB. Raiders Nate Hobbs 4/$48. I got nothing here - any AFC West people have opinions?
Raiders fan here.
Love, love, love Nate Hobbs. Borderline elite-level slot corner when healthy. Problem is, he plays a style that often gets him hurt, causing him to miss 14 games the past three years and be pretty hobbled for many more.
When he's healthy and on the field, you're going to like him a lot. But a bit of a gamble given his injury history.
Quote from: jesmu84 on March 10, 2025, 01:55:39 PM2/40 with 30 guaranteed for Fields to the Jets
It's good, nay - very good, to be an NFL QB.
Quote from: Pakuni on March 10, 2025, 04:06:21 PMRaiders fan here.
Love, love, love Nate Hobbs. Borderline elite-level slot corner when healthy. Problem is, he plays a style that often gets him hurt, causing him to miss 14 games the past three years and be pretty hobbled for many more.
When he's healthy and on the field, you're going to like him a lot. But a bit of a gamble given his injury history.
Can he and Ja sync their injuries to create one complete corner?
Packers did fine today. Off-season still hinges on finding another edge player
Lions exchange Carlton Davis for DJ Reed at CB1. About even. The market and mark up for edges is nuts.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 10, 2025, 04:42:30 PMPackers did fine today. Off-season still hinges on finding another edge player
This. I hope they go after Chase Young but have a feeling his market is going to go bonkers (like 15M per)
How can the saints keep funding a team with that cap situation
A lot of Bears fans confusing activity as accomplishment today.
The Jeanty at #10 talk is ridiculous. If he's there when they pick, it'll be Tyler Warren.
Quote from: GB Warrior on March 10, 2025, 08:20:27 PMHow can the saints keep funding a team with that cap situation
It's not like they've been successful
Quote from: The Sultan on March 10, 2025, 08:36:28 PMIt's not like they've been successful
Successful in retaining players I'd like to be available :)
Quote from: Dish on March 10, 2025, 08:35:54 PMA lot of Bears fans confusing activity as accomplishment today.
The Jeanty at #10 talk is ridiculous. If he's there when they pick, it'll be Tyler Warren.
You hated all the moves?
Quote from: JWags85 on March 10, 2025, 09:38:37 PMYou hated all the moves?
I think they did alright. Poles will get credit/blame, but make no mistake, these are guys that Ben Johnson wanted.
So now, they can go one of 3 ways at the top of the draft - RB, TE, or Edge. We know Ben likes a good running game, but this is one of the better RB classes in a while so I'll be a bit surprised if he goes for Jeanty in the 1st round.
Quote from: JWags85 on March 10, 2025, 09:38:37 PMYou hated all the moves?
They're marginally better today, but a lot of Bears fans are head over heels with these moves. Applauding Poles for "fixing" previous neglect is silly.
Dalman is fine. People freaking out that the Bears signed "the best center available" is misguided. They're paying him as the second highest paid center in the league. Good for Dalman hitting FA at the right time, but they're paying top dollar for a good run blocker, mediocre pass blocker.
I don't understand giving Jarrett two guaranteed years at that amount for a 32 year old tackle. Analytically, he is as middle of the road as it gets currently, and 2024 was the worst year of his career. Is he going to get revitalized playing most of his games outdoors on grass now?
Odeyingbo is a scratch off lottery ticket. Wait to see.
They still have the worst roster in the division, and lack blue chip talent. I realize there wasn't blue chip level free agents available today, but these moves are...fine.
The Athletic, which graded all the FA deals around the NFL, likes Dalman more than you do, Dish.
C Drew Dalman to sign with Bears
Top 150 ranking: No. 15
Reported deal: Three years, $42 million
Grade: A
The signing of Dalman, formerly of the Falcons, gives the Bears a versatile, well-rounded center capable of fitting into any blocking scheme necessary. Dalman missed eight games with an ankle injury, but in the nine he did play in, he allowed a total of only 10 pressures and no sacks. Chicago has made upgrading Caleb Williams' line a high priority this offseason and Dalman is the latest piece to the puzzle.
The Bear fans are well on their way to winning another off-season Super Bowl. How many consecutive is that now?
Quote from: Dish on March 10, 2025, 11:26:13 PMThey're marginally better today, but a lot of Bears fans are head over heels with these moves. Applauding Poles for "fixing" previous neglect is silly.
Dalman is fine. People freaking out that the Bears signed "the best center available" is misguided. They're paying him as the second highest paid center in the league. Good for Dalman hitting FA at the right time, but they're paying top dollar for a good run blocker, mediocre pass blocker.
I don't understand giving Jarrett two guaranteed years at that amount for a 32 year old tackle. Analytically, he is as middle of the road as it gets currently, and 2024 was the worst year of his career. Is he going to get revitalized playing most of his games outdoors on grass now?
Odeyingbo is a scratch off lottery ticket. Wait to see.
They still have the worst roster in the division, and lack blue chip talent. I realize there wasn't blue chip level free agents available today, but these moves are...fine.
I generally agree with all of this. I think your point about the quality of FAs available is true. I'd say given the potential of being able to improve a team via FA, the Bears did well and didn't lock themselves into long term big dollars. It terms of improving compared to the division or NFL, they did "fine" is accurate.
Hopefully they made a major upgrade at HC and the staff, marginal improvements via FA and trades and can add quality in the draft that adds up to a material improvement on the field.
Quote from: Dish on March 10, 2025, 11:26:13 PMThey're marginally better today, but a lot of Bears fans are head over heels with these moves. Applauding Poles for "fixing" previous neglect is silly.
Dalman is fine. People freaking out that the Bears signed "the best center available" is misguided. They're paying him as the second highest paid center in the league. Good for Dalman hitting FA at the right time, but they're paying top dollar for a good run blocker, mediocre pass blocker.
I don't understand giving Jarrett two guaranteed years at that amount for a 32 year old tackle. Analytically, he is as middle of the road as it gets currently, and 2024 was the worst year of his career. Is he going to get revitalized playing most of his games outdoors on grass now?
Odeyingbo is a scratch off lottery ticket. Wait to see.
They still have the worst roster in the division, and lack blue chip talent. I realize there wasn't blue chip level free agents available today, but these moves are...fine.
I'd argue people are excited because they are doing what they have been supposed to do for a while, but have not.
That combined with new staff means people can be optimistic of the returns even if it is correcting past negligence.
Quote from: MU82 on March 11, 2025, 07:11:17 AMThe Athletic, which graded all the FA deals around the NFL, likes Dalman more than you do, Dish.
C Drew Dalman to sign with Bears
Top 150 ranking: No. 15
Reported deal: Three years, $42 million
Grade: A
The signing of Dalman, formerly of the Falcons, gives the Bears a versatile, well-rounded center capable of fitting into any blocking scheme necessary. Dalman missed eight games with an ankle injury, but in the nine he did play in, he allowed a total of only 10 pressures and no sacks. Chicago has made upgrading Caleb Williams' line a high priority this offseason and Dalman is the latest piece to the puzzle.
The Athletic writer Mike Jones gave out almost all A's and B's, there was zero substance in that article.
All the analytic guys (PFF, Barnwell, Solak, Walder) are almost unanimously questioning why the Bears signed who they signed (or traded for) at the prices that they did (Thuney being the exception).
Quote from: Dish on March 12, 2025, 07:13:20 PMThe Athletic writer Mike Jones gave out almost all A's and B's, there was zero substance in that article.
All the analytic guys (PFF, Barnwell, Solak, Walder) are almost unanimously questioning why the Bears signed who they signed (or traded for) at the prices that they did (Thuney being the exception).
Yeah, I question some of their grades, too.
They rated Darnold the #4 player available and by far the best QB available. Seattle beat several other suitors to sign him to a team-friendly contract ... and The Athletic gave it a C grade.
I mean, I'm not sure this will be good for the Seahawks, but The Athletic might want to pay attention to The Athletic.
Quote from: MU82 on March 13, 2025, 01:16:35 AMYeah, I question some of their grades, too.
They rated Darnold the #4 player available and by far the best QB available. Seattle beat several other suitors to sign him to a team-friendly contract ... and The Athletic gave it a C grade.
I mean, I'm not sure this will be good for the Seahawks, but The Athletic might want to pay attention to The Athletic.
Might be using the Scoop Non-conference grading scale.
Detroit signing Lopez from Ari is a nice DL depth move. Re-signing Onwuzurike at $5 mil for one year is a steal. McNeill's recovery from knee surgery is a wild card. Detroit is basically saying that they believe the defense they started last season with is good enough to win it all. If they can avoid the endless injuries.
Also, I think they believe Mahogany is able to replace Zeitler at guard.
Rolling with continuity and culture is a bold move.
Quote from: tower912 on March 14, 2025, 07:47:44 AMAlso, I think they believe Mahogany is able to replace Zeitler at guard.
You wood.
FWIW ... I liked Detroit's moves, too. They're an excellent team. Running it back (mostly) was the logical course.
Quote from: MU82 on March 14, 2025, 11:36:36 AMYou wood.
FWIW ... I liked Detroit's moves, too. They're an excellent team. Running it back (mostly) was the logical course.
Well played.
This Vikings offseason is niiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiice
Gotta just pray JJ is ready
Quote from: PGsHeroes32 on March 15, 2025, 08:21:22 PMThis Vikings offseason is niiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiice
Gotta just pray JJ is ready
You're THAT happy to get rid of Darnold?
Quote from: PGsHeroes32 on March 15, 2025, 08:21:22 PMThis Vikings offseason is niiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiice
Gotta just pray JJ is ready
LOL, they don't have a quarterback.
Quote from: MU82 on March 15, 2025, 08:28:52 PMYou're THAT happy to get rid of Darnold?
That.
Plus every FA signing and I love the Mason trade too.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 15, 2025, 08:31:56 PMLOL, they don't have a quarterback.
Didn't last year either.
The NFC North is going to be even more of a slog this year
Quote from: GB Warrior on March 15, 2025, 09:53:02 PMThe NFC North is going to be even more of a slog this year
Just to go 0-3 in the Playoffs again.
Quote from: PGsHeroes32 on March 15, 2025, 09:45:02 PMDidn't last year either.
All they have at the games most important position is a guy who has yet to play in the NFL at one of the hardest positions in sports where just about everyone struggles early on. No one except a Vikings fan would feel good about next year with that situation.
Quote from: HutchwasClutch on March 15, 2025, 11:43:15 PMAll they have at the games most important position is a guy who has yet to play in the NFL at one of the hardest positions in sports where just about everyone struggles early on. No one except a Vikings fan would feel good about next year with that situation.
On the other hand, many had the Bears making the playoffs last year, so much so that the odds were -120 in July.
And Williams had an objectively worse roster around him heading into 2024, and far worse coaching staff, than McCarthy has heading into 2025.
Quote from: PGsHeroes32 on March 15, 2025, 09:45:02 PMDidn't last year either.
If you mean that, going into last season, it didn't appear that the Vikings had a viable QB, I'm with you.
If you mean that, when the games mattered most, Darnold was a major negative, I'm with you.
But if you're trying to rewrite history and say that, for the vast majority of the season, Darnold wasn't a very good QB, that's just silly.
Quote from: MU82 on March 16, 2025, 11:08:53 AMIf you mean that, going into last season, it didn't appear that the Vikings had a viable QB, I'm with you.
If you mean that, when the games mattered most, Darnold was a major negative, I'm with you.
But if you're trying to rewrite history and say that, for the vast majority of the season, Darnold wasn't a very good QB, that's just silly.
I think he means the first. But the problem with running a pass-oriented offense with a quarterback like Darnold is that eventually the mistakes will emerge when it matters most. So you just can't throw anyone into that role and hope it works.
JJ could be way better than we think and be a star. Or Aaron Rodgers could agree to cause no ruffles and run the offense they have and it may work. So I'm not saying it's hopeless, but this is a powerful offense that seemingly doesn't have the quarterback to run it.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 16, 2025, 11:21:18 AMI think he means the first. But the problem with running a pass-oriented offense with a quarterback like Darnold is that eventually the mistakes will emerge when it matters most. So you just can't throw anyone into that role and hope it works.
JJ could be way better than we think and be a star. Or Aaron Rodgers could agree to cause no ruffles and run the offense they have and it may work. So I'm not saying it's hopeless, but this is a powerful offense that seemingly doesn't have the quarterback to run it.
The day Rodgers runs an offense in a way be doesn't want to run it will be the first. The closest we've seen is his first MVP season under MLF
Quote from: GB Warrior on March 16, 2025, 01:51:42 PMThe day Rodgers runs an offense in a way be doesn't want to run it will be the first. The closest we've seen is his first MVP season under MLF
I don't disagree.
Quote from: MU82 on March 16, 2025, 11:08:53 AMIf you mean that, going into last season, it didn't appear that the Vikings had a viable QB, I'm with you.
If you mean that, when the games mattered most, Darnold was a major negative, I'm with you.
But if you're trying to rewrite history and say that, for the vast majority of the season, Darnold wasn't a very good QB, that's just silly.
As sultan said it's from an objective standpoint the 1st option.
But it's also a mix of all 3. I'm a firm believer that while KOC had some odd game plan/coaching the final few games. That overall he's an excellent offensive strategist and mostly anyone can work with this unit.
So i feel good about McCarthy.
Also, probably wasn't clear but the main reason I absolutely love the Vikes off-season is everything around the QB. JJ could flop and the season be a disaster. But imo we've added everyone we needed to and got much better. Which is another huge reason I didn't want Darnold back. The cost.
There wasn't a true no brainer QB upgrade out there/possible. So that part I can't judge for FA as is.
Last note, I should say. As sick as it is to type, I'm one of the few Vikes fans that would be very open to giving Rodgers a go.
Quote from: PGsHeroes32 on March 16, 2025, 03:27:24 PMAs sultan said it's from an objective standpoint the 1st option.
But it's also a mix of all 3. I'm a firm believer that while KOC had some odd game plan/coaching the final few games. That overall he's an excellent offensive strategist and mostly anyone can work with this unit.
So i feel good about McCarthy.
Also, probably wasn't clear but the main reason I absolutely love the Vikes off-season is everything around the QB. JJ could flop and the season be a disaster. But imo we've added everyone we needed to and got much better. Which is another huge reason I didn't want Darnold back. The cost.
There wasn't a true no brainer QB upgrade out there/possible. So that part I can't judge for FA as is.
Last note, I should say. As sick as it is to type, I'm one of the few Vikes fans that would be very open to giving Rodgers a go.
Thanks for the explanation.
https://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/1901466892184740072
Quote from: Pakuni on March 16, 2025, 10:02:03 PMhttps://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/1901466892184740072
Trade me Trey plz
Quote from: Pakuni on March 16, 2025, 10:02:03 PMhttps://x.com/Schultz_Report/status/1901466892184740072
Did Mike Brown secretly die and someone else took over the franchise?
Also, he's good, but doesn't that seem like a pretty big overpay for Higgins?
Quote from: JWags85 on March 17, 2025, 12:04:32 PMDid Mike Brown secretly die and someone else took over the franchise?
Also, he's good, but doesn't that seem like a pretty big overpay for Higgins?
It feels like a lot of money tied up in receivers in general.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 17, 2025, 12:06:41 PMIt feels like a lot of money tied up in receivers in general.
The Bengals really got themselves in a tough spot. Their success is so dependent on their QB and receivers, and at this point, you're not finding defensive difference makers on the market if you were to forego paying Higgins.
Their best bet is basically striking gold drafting defense.
What I really don't get is all the money for Gesicki. He was fine, I guess. But $12M this year for a middle of the road receiving TE seems like a want when there are glaring needs all over that roster.
The Lions clearly believe their defense last season was good enough to win it all, as they keep re-signing players from last season.
Quote from: tower912 on March 18, 2025, 04:58:58 PMThe Lions clearly believe their defense last season was good enough to win it all, as they keep re-signing players from last season.
For how many starts they lost to injury at the end of the year, I wouldn't bet against them. Nominally better health and progression from their young secondary...it's a dangerous team
It is. As Holmes.said in his end of the year presser, nobody game plans for their 8th string defensive end. I think they need some depth at safety.
Packers signing Mecole Hardman
(https://i.imgflip.com/3gwdow.png?a483936)
Appears the Vikings are not pursuing Aaron Rodgers. Sad!
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 19, 2025, 08:22:36 AMAppears the Vikings are not pursuing Aaron Rodgers. Sad!
Loser franchises keep making loser decisions.
Quote from: JWags85 on March 17, 2025, 12:04:32 PMDid Mike Brown secretly die and someone else took over the franchise?
Also, he's good, but doesn't that seem like a pretty big overpay for Higgins?
That Higgins deal is awful for Cincinnati.
Quote from: The Sultan on March 19, 2025, 08:23:55 AMLoser franchises keep making loser decisions.
I think the loser decision would have been to sign Rodgers.
From The Athletic:
Three years of Brock Purdy cost the 49ers less ($2.6 million) than Deshaun Watson costs the Browns per game spent on the bench ($2.7 million).
Quote from: MU82 on March 19, 2025, 12:08:32 PMFrom The Athletic:
Three years of Brock Purdy cost the 49ers less ($2.6 million) than Deshaun Watson costs the Browns per game spent on the bench ($2.7 million).
Browns being Browns.
With the Lions signing Rock Ya-Sin and re-signing Khalil Dorsey, I think it is safe to assume that they will not be drafting a corner early. Safety depth, edge rusher, big wide receiver.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 19, 2025, 01:34:14 PMBrowns being Browns.
Obviously the Browns went above and beyond on the Watson contract to the point where Haslam pissed off the other owners, so that was dumb. But a lot of this is also just the economics of rookie vs second contracts for QBs + injury. You could probably say a similar thing about Dak's extension rn. IMHO Purdy is also the most overrated QB in football, so a bit of a personal axe to grind there too.
The Bears' off-season championship has resulted in ESPN moving the Bears power ranking from 22 all the way to ........... 22.
Probably correct. I have a hard time seeing them move out of the NFC North cellar.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 25, 2025, 11:00:55 AMThe Bears' off-season championship has resulted in ESPN moving the Bears power ranking from 22 all the way to ........... 22.
Probably correct. I have a hard time seeing them move out of the NFC North cellar.
Honestly, even if you love the moves, I'd rather this than grand expectations and exclamations of a complete turnaround. Underpromise, overdeliver
Quote from: WhiteTrash on March 25, 2025, 11:00:55 AMThe Bears' off-season championship has resulted in ESPN moving the Bears power ranking from 22 all the way to ........... 22.
Probably correct. I have a hard time seeing them move out of the NFC North cellar.
Take heart, last season's ESPN preseason rankings included:
20. LA Chargers
21. Tampa Bay
23. Minnesota
28. Washington
31. Denver
Quote from: Pakuni on March 25, 2025, 11:30:32 AMTake heart, last season's ESPN preseason rankings included:
20. LA Chargers
21. Tampa Bay
23. Minnesota
28. Washington
31. Denver
Thanks for the perspective. And I think we can all agree, sports power rankings are the very definition of 'click bait'.
Russell Wilson to the Giants.
Russell, Jameis and Tommy.
Amazing
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 25, 2025, 06:21:30 PMRussell Wilson to the Giants.
Russell, Jameis and Tommy.
Amazing
Per NYC sports radio reports, Giants aren't thrilled with Cam Ward or Shedore Sanders. Would probably choose Ward if available but sounds like Tennessee is definitely picking him.
Quote from: MU Fan in Connecticut on March 25, 2025, 06:29:34 PMPer NYC sports radio reports, Giants aren't thrilled with Cam Ward or Shedore Sanders. Would probably choose Ward if available but sounds like Tennessee is definitely picking him.
Shedeur's landing spots dwindling.
Maybe Jets at 7 or Saints at 9. After that, he could easily slide into the 20s.
Quote from: MU Fan in Connecticut on March 25, 2025, 06:29:34 PMPer NYC sports radio reports, Giants aren't thrilled with Cam Ward or Shedore Sanders. Would probably choose Ward if available but sounds like Tennessee is definitely picking him.
I get it, but, woof city
Quote from: Uncle Rico on March 25, 2025, 07:14:29 PMI get it, but, woof city
Totally. As dumb as that QB room is though (and it is extremely dumb), its still better than picking Shedeur and then canning Schoen and Daboll after this season and beginning the hellcycle of alternating through QBs and leadership.
Quote from: MUBurrow on March 26, 2025, 08:49:26 AMTotally. As dumb as that QB room is though (and it is extremely dumb), its still better than picking Shedeur and then canning Schoen and Daboll after this season and beginning the hellcycle of alternating through QBs and leadership.
Giants are all in for Manning next year?
NFL rules:
1. Tush push stays (for now)
2. Both teams to get the ball in OT
3. Touchbacks moved to the 35-yard line
4. Replay officials can now overturn horse collar, hit on defenseless player, facemask, running into/roughing the kicker and tripping penalties, but can't call them if no flag was thrown.
Quote from: Pakuni on April 01, 2025, 11:50:57 AMNFL rules:
1. Tush push stays (for now)
2. Both teams to get the ball in OT
3. Touchbacks moved to the 35-yard line
4. Replay officials can now overturn horse collar, hit on defenseless player, facemask, running into/roughing the kicker and tripping penalties, but can't call them if no flag was thrown.
Given that there were several facemask penalties that were missed in some big games last season, the last one seems to fall a bit short. There's really no reason I can think of that a blatantly missed facemask or horse collar shouldn't be able to be called by a quick-review process.
Quote from: Pakuni on April 01, 2025, 11:50:57 AMNFL rules:
1. Tush push stays (for now)
2. Both teams to get the ball in OT
3. Touchbacks moved to the 35-yard line
4. Replay officials can now overturn horse collar, hit on defenseless player, facemask, running into/roughing the kicker and tripping penalties, but can't call them if no flag was thrown.
Will be interested if the OT rule result in more ties. 10 minutes is not a lot for more than 2 drives if both end in TDs
I'm generally in favor of all those rulings.
Quote from: GB Warrior on April 01, 2025, 12:31:01 PMWill be interested if the OT rule result in more ties. 10 minutes is not a lot for more than 2 drives if both end in TDs
I think NFL ties are fine actually?
Curious wby they would move touchbacks to the 35. Wouldn't that encourage teams to kick short and have more returns, thus more injuries?
Quote from: cheebs09 on April 03, 2025, 11:04:14 AMCurious wby they would move touchbacks to the 35. Wouldn't that encourage teams to kick short and have more returns, thus more injuries?
I think they believe that with the new setup, kickoff returns will result in fewer injuries. The days of players sprinting downfield 40 yards and colliding are over.
And they're tired of kickers blasting it through the end zone (64% of kickoffs resulted in touchbacks last year), depriving games of the potential for exciting plays.
Quote from: cheebs09 on April 03, 2025, 11:04:14 AMCurious wby they would move touchbacks to the 35. Wouldn't that encourage teams to kick short and have more returns, thus more injuries?
They want more returns. That was the point of changing the kick off to begin with. Theoretically there are less full speed hits between the tacklers and blockers, which is where most of the injuries occurred.
St. Louis Bengals?
Quote from: Dish on April 03, 2025, 11:46:00 AMSt. Louis Bengals?
Now that (stuff) would be funny.
Quote from: The Sultan on April 03, 2025, 11:01:28 AMI think NFL ties are fine actually?
I don't know I have a problem with them. My thoughts might change if you have a team with 2 or 3 in a year (I still think it's exceedingly unlikely). The strategy around who receives the kickoff will be interesting because of that time constraint
Quote from: Dish on April 03, 2025, 11:46:00 AMSt. Louis Bengals?
I could be wrong, but I have my doubts Hamilton County will hold the bag again like they did last time
Quote from: Dish on April 03, 2025, 11:46:00 AMSt. Louis Bengals?
This will really test the limits of how much leverage an NFL team can have over a city. Because if a sad-sack franchise like the Bengals can pull it off...
Quote from: The Sultan on April 03, 2025, 07:09:18 PMThis will really test the limits of how much leverage an NFL team can have over a city. Because if a sad-sack franchise like the Bengals can pull it off...
The county paid for basically all of it in the late 90's.
https://www.vice.com/en/article/the-stupid-sports-stadium-clause-thats-screwing-you-over/
Quote from: Uncle Rico on April 03, 2025, 07:20:27 PMThe county paid for basically all of it in the late 90's.
https://www.vice.com/en/article/the-stupid-sports-stadium-clause-thats-screwing-you-over/
Right. I just get the impression that things may have changed in the meantime...perhaps not.
All things considered the Bengals might be the saddest franchise in the NFL
The Athletic's Dianna Russini thinks the NFL will ban the tush push.
Roger Goodell does not like the play. He thinks it's ugly. He doesn't think it's a football play. ... The fact that this was tabled (at the league meeting) tells me that they're going to ban the tush push. ... They're gonna find a way to get it out of football. ... Some (owners) want to be in line with Roger Goodell. I think some believe it's an ugly play. And I think, whether or not they'll admit it, if you can't beat it, ban it.
Quote from: MU82 on April 04, 2025, 11:57:02 AMThe Athletic's Dianna Russini thinks the NFL will ban the tush push.
Roger Goodell does not like the play. He thinks it's ugly. He doesn't think it's a football play. ... The fact that this was tabled (at the league meeting) tells me that they're going to ban the tush push. ... They're gonna find a way to get it out of football. ... Some (owners) want to be in line with Roger Goodell. I think some believe it's an ugly play. And I think, whether or not they'll admit it, if you can't beat it, ban it.
I don't think she's a very good reporter
Quote from: Uncle Rico on April 04, 2025, 12:00:42 PMI don't think she's a very good reporter
Chicks shouldn't be reporting on football anyhow.
Quote from: Pakuni on April 04, 2025, 12:43:58 PMChicks shouldn't be reporting on football anyhow.
Hallelujah, brother
Quote from: MU82 on April 04, 2025, 11:57:02 AMThe Athletic's Dianna Russini thinks the NFL will ban the tush push.
Roger Goodell does not like the play. He thinks it's ugly. He doesn't think it's a football play. ... The fact that this was tabled (at the league meeting) tells me that they're going to ban the tush push. ... They're gonna find a way to get it out of football. ... Some (owners) want to be in line with Roger Goodell. I think some believe it's an ugly play. And I think, whether or not they'll admit it, if you can't beat it, ban it.
The number of times he had to watch his Jets QB run into the ass of his lineman would make me want to ban the play too
George McCaskey is the home plate umpire for my son's freshman baseball game this morning.
Quote from: Dish on April 19, 2025, 11:58:58 AMGeorge McCaskey is the home plate umpire for my son's freshman baseball game this my.
Rally the troops for a "Sell The Team!" chant.
Quote from: Dish on April 19, 2025, 11:58:58 AMGeorge McCaskey is the home plate umpire for my son's freshman baseball game this my.
Scouting for a QB?
Quote from: Uncle Rico on April 04, 2025, 12:51:40 PMHallelujah, brother
Absolutely. They should be rooting on their men. Short skirts - lotsa cartwheels.
Hooray! Head bashing will be back in vogue this year. The Pope just cut funding for the study of CTE.
If we ignore it, it will go away.
Tucker is 35, was one of the NFL's worst kickers last season, and makes too much money. And the Ravens used a draft pick on a kicker.
Cutting Tucker would make sense even if he didn't have a bunch of sexual misconduct allegations against him.
But those allegations do exist, so moving on had to have been a fairly easy decision ... despite the GM being kind in public and saying how difficult it was.
Quote from: Dish on April 19, 2025, 11:58:58 AMGeorge McCaskey is the home plate umpire for my son's freshman baseball game this morning.
You live in Libertyille?
Derek Carr retiring due to shoulder injury. Do the Saints go after Roger's?
Quote from: MU1in77 on May 10, 2025, 11:49:40 AMDerek Carr retiring due to shoulder injury. Do the Saints go after Roger's?
will anyone care either way?
Quote from: MU1in77 on May 10, 2025, 11:49:40 AMDerek Carr retiring due to shoulder injury. Do the Saints go after Roger's?
Drew Brees is available.
Quote from: MU1in77 on May 10, 2025, 11:49:40 AMDerek Carr retiring due to shoulder injury. Do the Saints go after Roger's?
Go after Roger's what? Roger's shoulder?
In the 70's, it cost six million dollars to transplant something like that.
Imagine it would cost much more now.
Quote from: barfolomew on May 12, 2025, 01:55:26 PMGo after Roger's what? Roger's shoulder?
In the 70's, it cost six million dollars to transplant something like that.
Imagine it would cost much more now.
Forget about the cost, the real problem is that the OSI has already been eliminated.
Boy that bears schedule sure doesn't feel like a last place schedule
Quote from: Shaka Shart on May 14, 2025, 06:51:34 PMBoy that bears schedule sure doesn't feel like a last place schedule
2nd hardest in the NFL.
Playing GB, Minnesota, and Detroit 6 times hurts.
The eight hardest schedules are all in the NFC North and East.
The NFC North proved their mettle in the post-season
Might just be my opinion, but the Sunday Night Football schedule is pretty poor.
Quote from: Dish on May 14, 2025, 08:49:47 PMMight just be my opinion, but the Sunday Night Football schedule is pretty poor.
I didn't think it was great last year either. Is this because they are tying to keep ESPN happy by pushing better games to Monday?
Carl Williams makes Lavar Ball seem almost reasonable.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 15, 2025, 03:11:43 PMCarl Williams makes Lavar Ball seem almost reasonable.
There is nothing unreasonable about not wanting your quarterback kid getting drafted by the Bears.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 15, 2025, 03:54:43 PMThere is nothing unreasonable about not wanting your quarterback kid getting drafted by the Bears.
If it were only just that, you'd have a point.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 15, 2025, 03:11:43 PMCarl Williams makes Lavar Ball seem almost reasonable.
I don't blame Carl one bit, I respect he was looking to maximize his son's earning potential. He and Caleb were right to think that way, based on everything the Bears did (or didn't do). The most damning part of the article was Caleb admitting to his dad that no one in the building watched (or taught to watch) film with him.
They had no structure or culture in place for a QB to come in and be successful. Carl Williams certainly did his homework and due diligence.
Quote from: Dish on May 15, 2025, 04:33:38 PMI don't blame Carl one bit, I respect he was looking to maximize his son's earning potential. He and Caleb were right to think that way, based on everything the Bears did (or didn't do). The most damning part of the article was Caleb admitting to his dad that no one in the building watched (or taught to watch) film with him.
They had no structure or culture in place for a QB to come in and be successful. Carl Williams certainly did his homework and due diligence.
Skepticism about the Bears seems reasonable.
Wanting his kid to play in the UFL for a year in hopes it would be a workaround the NFL draft (it wouldn't)? Claiming the rookie salary cap is unconstitutional (it isn't)? Trashing the city of Chicago - not the Bears, the city - in hopes it would convince the Bears to pass on him (it wouldn't)?
Nutty.
Quote from: Dish on May 15, 2025, 04:33:38 PMI don't blame Carl one bit, I respect he was looking to maximize his son's earning potential. He and Caleb were right to think that way, based on everything the Bears did (or didn't do). The most damning part of the article was Caleb admitting to his dad that no one in the building watched (or taught to watch) film with him.
They had no structure or culture in place for a QB to come in and be successful. Carl Williams certainly did his homework and due diligence.
Where's Poles or ownership in all this?
Seems like a gaping hole.
Then there's the rumors of Ben wanting the job last year, but they chose to keep ebeflus? Wtf
Quote from: Pakuni on May 15, 2025, 06:14:00 PMSkepticism about the Bears seems reasonable.
Wanting his kid to play in the UFL for a year in hopes it would be a workaround the NFL draft (it wouldn't)? Claiming the rookie salary cap is unconstitutional (it isn't)? Trashing the city of Chicago - not the Bears, the city - in hopes it would convince the Bears to pass on him (it wouldn't)?
Nutty.
But if he didn't, he wouldn't be trying to maximize his son's earning potential. ;)
Quote from: jesmu84 on May 15, 2025, 06:42:07 PMWhere's Poles or ownership in all this?
Seems like a gaping hole.
Then there's the rumors of Ben wanting the job last year, but they chose to keep ebeflus? Wtf
100% agree. Shocking failure of leadership. Also amazing there are no other players coming forward... yet.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 15, 2025, 06:14:00 PMSkepticism about the Bears seems reasonable.
Wanting his kid to play in the UFL for a year in hopes it would be a workaround the NFL draft (it wouldn't)? Claiming the rookie salary cap is unconstitutional (it isn't)? Trashing the city of Chicago - not the Bears, the city - in hopes it would convince the Bears to pass on him (it wouldn't)?
Nutty.
He didn't trash the city. He said that he talked about doing it like the Elways did to get him traded elsewhere. And exploring signing with UFL to circumvent the draft is just that - exploring.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 15, 2025, 07:47:21 PMHe didn't trash the city. He said that he talked about doing it like the Elways did to get him traded elsewhere. And exploring signing with UFL to circumvent the draft is just that - exploring.
He didn't stick his kid in the UFL either. Or challenge the constitutionality of a rookie salary cap. I was writing of the dumb ideas he was floating.
Exploring his kid signing in the UFL is idiotic.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 15, 2025, 08:29:32 PMHe didn't stick his kid in the UFL either. Or challenge the constitutionality of a rookie salary cap. I was writing of the dumb ideas he was floating.
Exploring his kid signing in the UFL is idiotic.
Of course you don't know how seriously he explored any of this and/or was just venting.
And none of this played out in public like it did with Ball. So your comparison is pretty bad.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 15, 2025, 08:30:48 PMOf course you don't know how seriously he explored any of this and/or was just venting.
And none of this played out in public like it did with Ball. So your comparison is pretty bad.
You're really trying hard here. I don't think the publisher would appreciate your "Nothing to see here" take.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on May 15, 2025, 08:41:15 PMYou're really trying hard here. I don't think the publisher would appreciate your "Nothing to see here" take.
I never said that either. But nice try.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 15, 2025, 08:30:48 PMOf course you don't know how seriously he explored any of this and/or was just venting.
And none of this played out in public like it did with Ball. So your comparison is pretty bad.
Is there a particular level of seriousness required for it to be a terrible idea? Is a terrible idea only terrible when it plays out in public? Like, if Mike Broeker explored the idea of replacing Shaka with Brian Wardle behind the scenes, would it be reasonable? I mean, he's just exploring it.
Anyhow, some of this did indeed play out in public.
From Sept. 2023:
The father of Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams says the Southern California quarterback could stay in school another year, especially if they don't like who has the No. 1 pick in the 2024 Draft.https://sports.yahoo.com/caleb-williamss-dad-says-son-161151238.html
From July 2023:
Per multiple sources, the representatives of USC quarterback Caleb Williams had been making it known to prospective agents that Williams wants partial ownership of the team that selects him in 2024, if he declares for the draft.https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/aaron-rodgers-caleb-williams-were-among-the-players-jostling-for-equity
Quote from: Pakuni on May 15, 2025, 09:45:13 PMIs there a particular level of seriousness required for it to be a terrible idea? Is a terrible idea only terrible when it plays out in public? Like, if Mike Broeker explored the idea of replacing Shaka with Brian Wardle behind the scenes, would it be reasonable? I mean, he's just exploring it.
Anyhow, some of this did indeed play out in public.
From Sept. 2023:
The father of Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams says the Southern California quarterback could stay in school another year, especially if they don't like who has the No. 1 pick in the 2024 Draft.
https://sports.yahoo.com/caleb-williamss-dad-says-son-161151238.html
From July 2023:
Per multiple sources, the representatives of USC quarterback Caleb Williams had been making it known to prospective agents that Williams wants partial ownership of the team that selects him in 2024, if he declares for the draft.
https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/aaron-rodgers-caleb-williams-were-among-the-players-jostling-for-equity
Depending on how things go, might've been smart to go back to USC and make NIL money. Play for the Titans after that.
Quote from: wadesworld on May 15, 2025, 10:06:14 PMDepending on how things go, might've been smart to go back to USC and make NIL money. Play for the Titans after that.
I imagine USC's NIL money wouldn't equal a year's worth of #1 overall pick money, not to mention delaying potential second and third contracts by another year. And then there's the risk of a serious injury or a subpar season hurting your stock.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 15, 2025, 10:19:30 PMI imagine USC's NIL money wouldn't equal a year's worth of #1 overall pick money, not to mention delaying potential second and third contracts by another year. And then there's the risk of a serious injury or a subpar season hurting your stock.
So you get an insurance policy. And he was probably at more risk with a worse OL relative to the competition, and bigger and faster dudes chasing after him while playing with the Bears.
It's more the exception, but athletes return to school when there's guaranteed money available sometimes. Even more so now that college athletes are well paid.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 15, 2025, 09:45:13 PMIs there a particular level of seriousness required for it to be a terrible idea? Is a terrible idea only terrible when it plays out in public? Like, if Mike Broeker explored the idea of replacing Shaka with Brian Wardle behind the scenes, would it be reasonable? I mean, he's just exploring it.
Ah. So now you're shifting the goalposts. Your first take, and the only one I debated, was that he was worse than Ball. Now with that preposterous position destroyed, you're resorting to terrible analogies.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 15, 2025, 09:45:13 PMAnyhow, some of this did indeed play out in public.
From Sept. 2023:
The father of Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams says the Southern California quarterback could stay in school another year, especially if they don't like who has the No. 1 pick in the 2024 Draft.
https://sports.yahoo.com/caleb-williamss-dad-says-son-161151238.html
From July 2023:
Per multiple sources, the representatives of USC quarterback Caleb Williams had been making it known to prospective agents that Williams wants partial ownership of the team that selects him in 2024, if he declares for the draft.
https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/aaron-rodgers-caleb-williams-were-among-the-players-jostling-for-equity
lol. Cmon. These are nothing.
Jeez just wave the white flag already.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 16, 2025, 07:00:47 AMAh. So now you're shifting the goalposts. Your first take, and the only one I debated, was that he was worse than Ball. Now with that preposterous position destroyed, you're resorting to terrible analogies.
Not shifting anything. You're the one who introduced the suggestion that his dumb ideas weren't actually dumb because they weren't all aired in public.
And yeah, he is worse than Ball. Lavar is a blowhard and he tried to profit off his kids with sh*tty shoes, but he never brought up the idea of them playing in the Turkish league if they didn't like the team that drafted them, or suggested they trash a city as a negotiating ploy.
QuoteJeez just wave the white flag already.
Ah, the ol "I've got no response so I'll declare victory as if I'm in middle school debate club."
Quote from: Pakuni on May 16, 2025, 07:14:36 AMAnd yeah, he is worse than Ball..
Nope. Doubling down on a stupid take because you can't admit I'm right. Sad.
It doesn't seem like his dad was wrong in his assessment of the Bears.
Also, I feel like every other year the NBA or NFL top draft pick has a story come out about debating going back to school to avoid the team picking first.
Quote from: cheebs09 on May 16, 2025, 08:35:15 AMIt doesn't seem like his dad was wrong in his assessment of the Bears.
Also, I feel like every other year the NBA or NFL top draft pick threatens to go back to school to avoid the team picking first.
Yep and yep. But the dad who had his kids playing in Lithuania was better. 🙄🙄🙄
I think most fans honest assessment of the Bears as a franchise would mirror Williams'. This is also much ado about nothing since - it should be noted - Williams very much plays for the Bears.
Quote from: cheebs09 on May 16, 2025, 08:35:15 AMIt doesn't seem like his dad was wrong in his assessment of the Bears.
Also, I feel like every other year the NBA or NFL top draft pick has a story come out about debating going back to school to avoid the team picking first.
Having doubts about the Bears is very reasonable.
There are thousands of parents who have kids drafted in the NFL that are smart and deeply caring of their child's well-being that don't go down the crazy paths Mr. Williams did. Any ways, he not the first or last kooky pro sports parent.
As you alluded to, he could have simply returned to USC and made fine money. In the end he saw the opportunities to be better being the Bears' QB and seems very happy with the current situation.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 16, 2025, 08:37:15 AMYep and yep. But the dad who had his kids playing in Lithuania was better. 🙄🙄🙄
You're comparing the choice of college pre-NIL vs pro ball in Lithuania to the choice of UFL vs NFL.
Pretty much the same thing. ::)
I feared the worse from LaVar Ball after the Hornets drafted LaMelo, but the fears proved to be unjustified. LaVar has totally stayed out of the Hornets' business. He is not a presence or factor at all. From what I understand, the same has been true of Lonzo and the teams he has played for.
Williams' father, from how it sounds, is a bazillion times worse ... although it's hard to argue that he was wrong about Chicago being where QBs go to die.
Quote from: MU82 on May 16, 2025, 11:00:06 AMI feared the worse from LaVar Ball after the Hornets drafted LaMelo, but the fears proved to be unjustified. LaVar has totally stayed out of the Hornets' business. He is not a presence or factor at all. From what I understand, the same has been true of Lonzo and the teams he has played for.
Williams' father, from how it sounds, is a bazillion times worse ... although it's hard to argue that he was wrong about Chicago being where QBs go to die.
At least Caleb's dad hasn't put him in shoes that may have severely limited his career.
Quote from: cheebs09 on May 16, 2025, 11:35:58 AMAt least Caleb's dad hasn't put him in shoes that may have severely limited his career.
True. That we know of, anyway.
Quote from: cheebs09 on May 16, 2025, 11:35:58 AMAt least Caleb's dad hasn't put him in shoes that may have severely limited his career.
I heard his dad personally paints Caleb's fingernails
Quote from: Pakuni on May 16, 2025, 10:35:11 AMYou're comparing the choice of college pre-NIL vs pro ball in Lithuania to the choice of UFL vs NFL.
Pretty much the same thing. ::)
Choosing to go play pro ball in Lithuania is 100x crazier than exploring, but ultimately rejecting, playing in the UFL.
Again Caleb and his family decided the best course of action was the "traditional" one. Yet apparently merely exploring options make his nuttier than Ball?
Just a nutty point that gets worse every time you try to defend it.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 17, 2025, 08:03:29 AMChoosing to go play pro ball in Lithuania is 100x crazier than exploring, but ultimately rejecting, playing in the UFL.
Again Caleb and his family decided the best course of action was the "traditional" one. Yet apparently merely exploring options make his nuttier than Ball?
Just a nutty point that gets worse every time you try to defend it.
The decision to go ahead and play for the Bears is the much nuttier choice, especially given the danger of living in Chicago
Quote from: The Sultan on May 17, 2025, 08:03:29 AMChoosing to go play pro ball in Lithuania is 100x crazier than exploring, but ultimately rejecting, playing in the UFL.
Again Caleb and his family decided the best course of action was the "traditional" one. Yet apparently merely exploring options make his nuttier than Ball?
Live Your Truth!
Quote from: The Sultan on May 17, 2025, 08:03:29 AMChoosing to go play pro ball in Lithuania is 100x crazier than exploring, but ultimately rejecting, playing in the UFL.
Again Caleb and his family decided the best course of action was the "traditional" one. Yet apparently merely exploring options make his nuttier than Ball?
Just a nutty point that gets worse every time you try to defend it.
The idea of getting paid for a year in Europe rather than play for free in college, a move which impacted his NBA future and earnings not one bit, is nutty.
The idea of passing on a guaranteed $39.5 million NFL contract to get $62K in the UFL, all while postponing your NFL career - and most importantly, your second contract - is not nutty.
Got it. Nothing more to be said.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 17, 2025, 07:17:50 PMThe idea of getting paid for a year in Europe rather than play for free in college, a move which impacted his NBA future and earnings not one bit, is nutty.
The idea of passing on a guaranteed $39.5 million NFL contract to get $62K in the UFL, all while postponing your NFL career - and most importantly, your second contract - is not nutty.
Man, you are really struggling with logic.
The difference, of course, is the former actually happened. The latter was only explored...and rejected.
Do you understand the difference now? Or do I have to explain it a FOURTH time?
Quote from: The Sultan on May 17, 2025, 07:30:06 PMMan, you are really struggling with logic.
The difference, of course, is the former actually happened. The latter was only explored...and rejected.
Do you understand the difference now? Or do I have to explain it a FOURTH time?
Man, you are really struggling with reading. Go back and see what I wrote.
And for some reason you find it "nutty" that a kid would pass on playing for nothing in college for a year overseas before the NBA draft. Never mind the players who successfully did it (Brandon Jennings, Emmanuel Mudiay, Terrance Ferguson) before LaMelo.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 17, 2025, 08:03:12 PMMan, you are really struggling with reading. Go back and see what I wrote.
And for some reason you find it "nutty" that a kid would pass on playing for nothing in college for a year overseas before the NBA draft. Never mind the players who successfully did it (Brandon Jennings, Emmanuel Mudiay, Terrance Ferguson) before LaMelo.
"You aren't reading what I wrote."
<proceeds to misstate what I wrote>
Your desire to hang onto your original point has reached comically desperate levels.
I doubt he gave much serious thought to the USFL. It most likely was a way to try and get the Bears to trade the pick.
Can we all agree with Ball and Williams, we are arguing who's the tallest in mental munchkin land?
Quote from: cheebs09 on May 17, 2025, 08:14:23 PMI doubt he gave much serious thought to the USFL. It most likely was a way to try and get the Bears to trade the pick.
Exactly.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 17, 2025, 08:12:05 PM"You aren't reading what I wrote."
<proceeds to misstate what I wrote>
Your desire to hang onto your original point has reached comically desperate levels.
"misstate what I wrote."
What you wrote:
"Choosing to go play pro ball in Lithuania is 100x crazier than exploring, but ultimately rejecting, playing in the UFL."
Quote from: Pakuni on May 17, 2025, 08:18:23 PM"misstate what I wrote."
What you wrote:
"Choosing to go play pro ball in Lithuania is 100x crazier than exploring, but ultimately rejecting, playing in the UFL."
LOL...you still don't understand how you misread it huh?
Quote from: The Sultan on May 17, 2025, 08:20:27 PMLOL...you still don't understand how you misread it huh?
I understand the point you think you're making. It's just wrong.
Merely contemplating turning down $39.5 million from the NFL for $62,000 from the UFL is insane.
Playing a year overseas before the NBA draft had been a successful path for several players pre-LaMelo and was neither novel or nutty.
Hope that helps.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 17, 2025, 08:26:33 PMI understand the point you think you're making. It's just wrong.
Merely contemplating turning down $39.5 million from the NFL for $62,000 from the UFL is insane.
Playing a year overseas before the NBA draft had been a successful path for several players pre-LaMelo and was neither novel or nutty.
Hope that helps.
Lithuania isn't Spain or Germany.
Not only that, but Big Baller sponsored a team that pulled out of the main Lithuanian league to play a bunch of games against lower level teams. Saying it was similar to a Brandon Jennings like situation is completely dishonest.
But Pak will keep digging instead of admitting defeat. It's his way.
Quote from: BM1090 on May 18, 2025, 02:12:23 AMLithuania isn't Spain or Germany.
He also played in the NBL.
The level of competition clearly damaged LaMelo's draft standing and NBA prospects. Fell all the way to #3 in the draft and won rookie of the year. Imagine what he could have accomplished had he spent a year under Steve Alford instead.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 18, 2025, 06:49:18 AMHe also played in the NBL.
The level of competition clearly damaged LaMelo's draft standing and NBA prospects. Fell all the way to #3 in the draft and won rookie of the year. Imagine what he could have accomplished had he spent a year under Steve Alford instead.
Keep shifting the goalposts.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 18, 2025, 06:50:20 AMKeep shifting the goalposts.
How am I shifting goalposts?
The idea of skipping a year of college basketball to play a year overseas isn't crazy. The idea of skipping year of the NFL to play in the UFL is very crazy.
You're free to disagree, but this isn't as nearly as hard as you're trying make it.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 18, 2025, 07:28:01 AMHow am I shifting goalposts?
Because draft position was never a question. If Williams would have spent a year in the UFL with NFL free agency a year away, he would have been signed to a nice contrct in the end.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 18, 2025, 07:28:01 AMThe idea of skipping a year of college basketball to play a year overseas isn't crazy.
The way the Balls did it was definitely crazy.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 18, 2025, 07:28:01 AMThe idea of skipping year of the NFL to play in the UFL is very crazy.
Yes. But Williams didn't do that.
Get it now?
Quote from: The Sultan on May 18, 2025, 07:37:53 AMYes. But Williams didn't do that.
Get it now?
Yeah, you're the one the shifting of goalposts here.
You seem to be under the impression that a crazy idea isn't actually crazy unless acted upon. Interesting theory, but wrong.
Perhaps ask ChatGPT to define "idea."
Quote from: Pakuni on May 18, 2025, 07:48:40 AMYeah, you're the one the shifting of goalposts here.
You seem to be under the impression that a crazy idea isn't actually crazy unless acted upon. Interesting theory, but wrong.
Perhaps ask ChatGPT to define "idea."
Your original statement: "Carl Williams makes Lavar Ball seem almost reasonable."
And yes, ACTING on a crazy idea makes one less reasonable than merely CONSIDERING one. In the end, Williams chose the most reasonable idea - and yes, as crazy as it seems, being drafted to play quarterback for the Bears was the most reasonable option.
I don't believe that playing low level basketball in Lithuania was the most reasonable option for Lamelo. He overcame his father's desire to build up his family's "brand," but more reasonable options would have included played in college or playing at higher level options in Europe.
Playing for Steve Alford really hurt older son Lonzo Ball's draft status so much.
Let's be honest here. Williams was never going to play in the UFL. They "explored" it in the sense of trying to find a loophole to become a free agent the following year, but there was no loophole so the only reason he would've played in the UFL was not a possibility. It wasn't just delaying his move to the NFL until someone that isn't the Bears had the first overall pick. If that's what he was looking to do he would've gone back to USC and made millions.
It's no different than what Elway did to the Colts.
Quote from: wadesworld on May 18, 2025, 08:46:53 AMPlaying for Steve Alford really hurt older son Lonzo Ball's draft status so much.
Let's be honest here. Williams was never going to play in the UFL. They "explored" it in the sense of trying to find a loophole to become a free agent the following year, but there was no loophole so the only reason he would've played in the UFL was not a possibility. It wasn't just delaying his move to the NFL until someone that isn't the Bears had the first overall pick. If that's what he was looking to do he would've gone back to USC and made millions.
It's no different than what Elway did to the Colts.
Or Manning did to the Chargers. Figuring out what leverage you have is a tale as old as time for top prospects.
Quote from: wadesworld on May 18, 2025, 08:46:53 AMPlaying for Steve Alford really hurt older son Lonzo Ball's draft status so much.
Let's be honest here. Williams was never going to play in the UFL. They "explored" it in the sense of trying to find a loophole to become a free agent the following year, but there was no loophole so the only reason he would've played in the UFL was not a possibility. It wasn't just delaying his move to the NFL until someone that isn't the Bears had the first overall pick. If that's what he was looking to do he would've gone back to USC and made millions.
It's no different than what Elway did to the Colts.
Good points. I don't think the real story is all of Mr. Williams 'questionable' ideas, it is he and Caleb going public. I'm curious as to what the end game is.
As for LaMelo going over seas, I don't remember that being a big deal, as he was not the first, but maybe the other craziness of Ball made that appear reasonable.
But I still feel like debating, at length, who is less crazy is like having a multi page debate about who is worse in the MEAC, Maryland Eastern Shore or Coppin State; in the end they are both bad teams not of consequence.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on May 18, 2025, 09:42:08 AMGood points. I don't think the real story is all of Mr. Williams 'questionable' ideas, it is he and Caleb going public. I'm curious as to what the end game is.
They didn't "go public" now. It was a book written about what occurred prior to the 2024 draft.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 18, 2025, 09:48:14 AMThey didn't "go public" now. It was a book written about what occurred prior to the 2024 draft.
Maybe I'm wrong, but it appears by the reports that the Williams participated with Wickersham in the book.
If this is all third party / hearsay reporting, I withdraw my question of their motive.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 18, 2025, 09:30:11 AMOr Manning did to the Chargers. Figuring out what leverage you have is a tale as old as time for top prospects.
Except Archie didn't look into signing his kid up with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and calling San Diego a sh*thole.
I'm not taking issue with any football dad trying to put his kid in a better situation. Good for them. I'm taking issue with Carl flirting with ideas that would have put his kid in a worse situation.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 18, 2025, 09:58:48 AMExcept Archie didn't look into signing his kid up with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and calling San Diego a sh*thole.
I'm not taking issue with any football dad trying to put his kid in a better situation. Good for them. I'm taking issue with Carl flirting with ideas that would have put his kid in a worse situation.
Flirting with ideas that end up going nowhere is a nothingburger.
He was rightfully skeptical of the Bears for reasons that turned out to be 100% accurate, but in end everyone realized it was the best option. And it may be a better situation now anyway.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on May 18, 2025, 09:55:52 AMMaybe I'm wrong, but it appears by the reports that the Williams participated with Wickersham in the book.
If this is all third party / hearsay reporting, I withdraw my question of their motive.
I believe the quotes initially provided to him were prior to the draft.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 18, 2025, 10:07:19 AMI believe the quotes initially provided to him were prior to the draft.
So, he went public. I find that curious. He was aware and wanted this to go public at some point.
(
Note: I never addressed the timing in my post.)
Quote from: The Sultan on May 18, 2025, 10:06:40 AMFlirting with ideas that end up going nowhere is a nothingburger.
"Move along. Nothing to see here" ;)
Quote from: The Sultan on May 18, 2025, 10:06:40 AMFlirting with ideas that end up going nowhere is a nothingburger.
I completely understand you think a bad idea that goes nowhere isn't a bad idea. I disagree.
Again, not nearly as complicated as you're trying to make it.
I gotta say, I lost track of what you all are arguing about.
I'm curious the timing of the quotes (e.g was it before the Bears said they were drafting him no matter what?).
Ultimately I don't think it matters. If he's good (and vis a vis the team is good), no one cares. If he's meh, they're probably not getting to the promised land anyway and the fans will be happy to move on down the road. If he's good and the team is bad, well, he called his shot early and was right.
My guess is he holds an inordinate amount of sway within the organization for an unproven, first contract QB. And these quotes and this story serves as a good reminder to the Bears brass of that
Quote from: WhiteTrash on May 18, 2025, 10:31:14 AMSo, he went public. I find that curious. He was aware and wanted this to go public at some point.
(Note: I never addressed the timing in my post.)
Well you said "what the end game is," which makes it sound current. I don't think there is an end game now. I think the end game then was to keep Caleb from going to the Bears.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 18, 2025, 10:46:23 AMWell you said "what the end game is," which makes it sound current. I don't think there is an end game now. I think the end game then was to keep Caleb from going to the Bears.
The end game of going public in a book to be released after the draft was to keep Caleb from going to the Bears?
I don't even know what to say about that.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on May 18, 2025, 11:17:15 AMThe end game of going public in a book to be released after the draft was to keep Caleb from going to the Bears?
I don't even know what to say about that.
??? Wickersham is writing a book about last year. Williams isn't.
Quote from: GB Warrior on May 18, 2025, 10:39:59 AMI gotta say, I lost track of what you all are arguing about.
I'm curious the timing of the quotes (e.g was it before the Bears said they were drafting him no matter what?).
Ultimately I don't think it matters. If he's good (and vis a vis the team is good), no one cares. If he's meh, they're probably not getting to the promised land anyway and the fans will be happy to move on down the road. If he's good and the team is bad, well, he called his shot early and was right.
My guess is he holds an inordinate amount of sway within the organization for an unproven, first contract QB. And these quotes and this story serves as a good reminder to the Bears brass of that
Yes, like a lot of Scoop arguments, this one is very dumb and semantical.
As for whether this matters for Williams ... it depends.
If he plays like the guy the Bears drafted him to be, it'll be soon forgotten.
If he doesn't, I think the fanbase will turn on him way harder and faster than they did Trubisky or Fields. A not insignificant portion of Bears fans were still very much in Fields' corner to the bitter end (some of them here), after all.
Whether that would matter to or affect Williams, I have no idea. I don't think many athletes enjoy being booed at home, or thrive under those circumstances, but maybe Williams is different.
FWIW, amid all the Williams family drama, we've ignored the real Bears news this week ... back to Arlington Heights they go (as always was going to be the case).
https://www.dailyherald.com/20250516/news/bears-shift-stadium-focus-back-to-arlington-heights/
Quote from: Pakuni on May 18, 2025, 12:37:14 PMFWIW, amid all the Williams family drama, we've ignored the real Bears news this week ... back to Arlington Heights they go (as always was going to be the case).
https://www.dailyherald.com/20250516/news/bears-shift-stadium-focus-back-to-arlington-heights/
Word is, LaVar threatened to move the Bears to Lithuania.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 18, 2025, 11:23:02 AM??? Wickersham is writing a book about last year. Williams isn't.
Talking to a reporter for an article or book is going public.
You are truly just trying to be difficult. Shall we debate what day of the week is today?
Quote from: MU82 on May 18, 2025, 12:48:49 PMWord is, LaVar threatened to move the Bears to Lithuania.
Or the CFL. Le Ours of Quebec City.
Quote from: MU82 on May 18, 2025, 12:48:49 PMWord is, LaVar threatened to move the Bears to Lithuania.
Threats are a nohing burger. :)
Quote from: WhiteTrash on May 18, 2025, 12:50:47 PMTalking to a reporter for an article or book is going public.
You are truly just trying to be difficult. Shall we debate what day of the week is today?
No, like Pak, you aren't using any logic at all here.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 18, 2025, 12:56:46 PMNo, like Pak, you aren't using any logic at all here.
Talking to a reporter on the record isn't "going public."
(https://media.tenor.com/Q1CNnkTVw9IAAAAM/confused-confused-look.gif)
Quote from: Pakuni on May 18, 2025, 01:04:03 PMTalking to a reporter on the record isn't "going public."
(https://media.tenor.com/Q1CNnkTVw9IAAAAM/confused-confused-look.gif)
<sigh>
Man, you are really struggling following along this weekend. You OK?
Quote from: Pakuni on May 18, 2025, 01:04:03 PMTalking to a reporter on the record isn't "going public."
(https://media.tenor.com/Q1CNnkTVw9IAAAAM/confused-confused-look.gif)
I'm waiting for the world is flat argument.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 18, 2025, 01:04:03 PMTalking to a reporter on the record isn't "going public."
(https://media.tenor.com/Q1CNnkTVw9IAAAAM/confused-confused-look.gif)
Is there any proof that it was Caleb Williams or his dad talked to the author? It's possible someone else was the source.
Quote from: cheebs09 on May 18, 2025, 02:28:57 PMIs there any proof that it was Caleb Williams or his dad talked to the author? It's possible someone else was the source.
Wickersham discussed his conversations with Carl and Caleb on Chicago sports radio.
https://www.audacy.com/670thescore/sports/chicago-bears/author-shares-insight-caleb-williams-desire-to-avoid-bears
Of all the dumb arguments on scoop... this was one of them
I'm a Bears fan. Caleb and his dad's concerns were obviously logical and proven to be well-founded considering last season's sh*tshow.
I imagine his father knew all of their potential solutions to avoiding being drafted by the Bears were Hail Mary's but I can't blame him for at least looking into it.
Ultimately, Caleb made the logical decision and now has a bunch of weapons, an improved line, and a great offensive mind behind him.
He's in a great spot to succeed and I'm excited to see how it turns out.
Quote from: TAMU, Knower of Ball on May 18, 2025, 02:56:37 PMOf all the dumb arguments on scoop... this was one of them
Arguing who rates a 7 and who rates an 8 on the crazy scale between Ball and Williams is dumb? Agreed.
I honestly don't know how the 'Caleb's dad went public' is an argument. Never in a million years did I consider that an objectionable or questionable part of of a pretty innocent question.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on May 18, 2025, 03:49:11 PMArguing who rates a 7 and who rates an 8 on the crazy scale between Ball and Williams is dumb? Agreed.
I honestly don't know how the 'Caleb's dad went public' is an argument. Never in a million years did I consider that an objectionable or questionable part of of a pretty innocent question.
Christ almighty. I never claimed he didn't go public. Please read.
Quote from: GB Warrior on May 18, 2025, 10:39:59 AMI gotta say, I lost track of what you all are arguing about.
I'm curious the timing of the quotes (e.g was it before the Bears said they were drafting him no matter what?).
Ultimately I don't think it matters. If he's good (and vis a vis the team is good), no one cares. If he's meh, they're probably not getting to the promised land anyway and the fans will be happy to move on down the road. If he's good and the team is bad, well, he called his shot early and was right.
My guess is he holds an inordinate amount of sway within the organization for an unproven, first contract QB. And these quotes and this story serves as a good reminder to the Bears brass of that
Who is more woke, Caleb or lamelo?
Quote from: Shaka Shart on May 18, 2025, 04:12:56 PMWho is more woke, Caleb or lamelo?
Don't know, but Caleb getting drafted ahead of Drake Maye was a DEI hire.
The bigger worry for NFL teams in when Arch Manning is drafted (probably next year). The Manning's have a history in this area.
Quote from: Jockey on May 18, 2025, 05:08:25 PMThe bigger worry for NFL teams in when Arch Manning is drafted (probably next year). The Manning's have a history in this area.
Good point. Get your popcorn ready.
Quote from: Jockey on May 18, 2025, 05:08:25 PMThe bigger worry for NFL teams in when Arch Manning is drafted (probably next year). The Manning's have a history in this area.
Far from a sure thing he's coming out anyhow. Both his uncles stayed four years when they could have come out early, the family doesn't need money and he's well compensated at Texas.
That said, the Saints are the early leader for #1 overall pick and I imagine that's a team high on the family's list.
Quote from: Pakuni on May 18, 2025, 04:51:27 PMDon't know, but Caleb getting drafted ahead of Drake Maye was a DEI hire.
Thank goodness it's illegal now
$181M guaranteed (and $265M overall) for Brock Purdy.
I mean, I guess SF had no choice ... but yikes!
Quote from: MU82 on May 19, 2025, 10:05:58 AM$181M guaranteed (and $265M overall) for Brock Purdy.
I mean, I guess SF had no choice ... but yikes!
The cap will keep going up. We always overreact to these deals of mid-level QBs. Given the dearth of Purdy-level QBs, this deal is fine
"Fall of Favre" was OK. Didn't really cover that much new ground, but of course I already knew most of it. The Jenn Sterger harrassment was way worse than I remembered.
Mike Vick's participation certainly lended an interesting twist to it however.
Tush Push lives on.
Packers will have to stop it on the field much to the chagrin of their organization
Quote from: Uncle Rico on May 21, 2025, 10:46:38 AMTush Push lives on.
Packers will have to stop it on the field much to the chagrin of their organization
That's too bad, I would have liked to see it killed.
Quote from: MUBurrow on May 21, 2025, 10:49:05 AMThat's too bad, I would have liked to see it killed.
I'm with Dan Campbell on it: "I am of the school that they found something and it's up to everybody else to stop it. So I'm a hard yes,"
Quote from: MUBurrow on May 21, 2025, 10:49:05 AMThat's too bad, I would have liked to see it killed.
I hope another team does what Washington did and keep jumping offsides. I can only imagine the lawsuits from gamblers if Philly was awarded a TD without crossing the goal line.
Besides, it is an excellent strategy as eventually there is a very good chance that Philly would jump before the snap and they'd get the 5-yarder.
Quote from: Jockey on May 21, 2025, 12:36:59 PMI hope another team does what Washington did and keep jumping offsides. I can only imagine the lawsuits from gamblers if Philly was awarded a TD without crossing the goal line.
Besides, it is an excellent strategy as eventually there is a very good chance that Philly would jump before the snap and they'd get the 5-yarder.
Why would gamblers file a lawsuit? Against whom?
Yeah, they would threaten the jumpers kids, not file a lawsuit.
I'd like to see a team simply stop it.
Physics makes that difficult.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on May 21, 2025, 12:46:53 PMI'd like to see a team simply stop it.
If they enforce the line of scrimmage rules correctly I have no problem with it. Packers stopped it multiple times last year. Wasn't their issue with the Eagles
Quote from: GB Warrior on May 21, 2025, 12:53:33 PMIf they enforce the line of scrimmage rules correctly I have no problem with it. Packers stopped it multiple times last year. Wasn't their issue with the Eagles
They should have proposed a ban on wide receiver reverses on short yardage plays to stop LaFleur from calling them
The Lions voted against banning the tush push and I understand their reasoning. In addition to the tush push, one of the Lions pet moves would have been made illegal. And that is when one of their runners is stood up a few yards downfield hasn't gone down yet. Detroit O-linemen will crash into that scrum, pushing the whole pile 3-5-7 yards further downfield.
Detroit wanted to continue to do that, so viva la tush push.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on May 21, 2025, 12:46:53 PMI'd like to see a team simply stop it.
I would usually agree, but I'm not sure that's possible without a lot more injuries.
Quote from: MUBurrow on May 21, 2025, 01:41:04 PMI would usually agree, but I'm not sure that's possible without a lot more injuries.
Are you the woke mob
Quote from: Uncle Rico on May 21, 2025, 01:55:33 PMAre you the woke mob
hell no shut up and chomp block
Quote from: MUBurrow on May 21, 2025, 01:59:51 PMhell no shut up and chomp block
What a dentist thing to say.
Quote from: The Sultan on May 21, 2025, 12:41:06 PMWhy would gamblers file a lawsuit? Against whom?
Against the NFL for arbitrarily awarding points that change the outcome bets.
Nota great chance of winning, but to question whether or not people file silly lawsuits is giving people way more credit than they deserve.
Irsay dead at 65.
Quote from: tower912 on May 21, 2025, 07:38:54 PMIrsay dead at 65.
Did his dentist slip him painkillers?
Quote from: tower912 on May 21, 2025, 07:38:54 PMIrsay dead at 65.
One of those unique situations where you can be like "man, he was still young" and also "man, I'm surprised he lasted this long"
I hope he finds thousands of pairs of Sarah Palin's feet in heaven
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on May 21, 2025, 11:44:56 AMI'm with Dan Campbell on it: "I am of the school that they found something and it's up to everybody else to stop it. So I'm a hard yes,"
Yeah I don't really have a problem with it. The only reason I wanted it banned is because I think it's boring as hell.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on May 21, 2025, 11:44:56 AMI'm with Dan Campbell on it: "I am of the school that they found something and it's up to everybody else to stop it. So I'm a hard yes,"
reeko is a semi-hard yes on the tush push
Quote from: Jay Bee on May 22, 2025, 07:34:00 AMreeko is a semi-hard yes on the tush push
Again, I'm flattered but am not interested.
Quote from: JWags85 on May 21, 2025, 10:08:41 PMOne of those unique situations where you can be like "man, he was still young" and also "man, I'm surprised he lasted this long"
Yeah, I honestly thought he was at least mid-70s.
Kevin Warren's impact on the Bears stadium efforts has proved worthless (https://chicago.suntimes.com/bears-stadium/2025/06/01/bears-stadium-bill-springfield).
https://x.com/RapSheet/status/1929569634388160910
That Lions title contender window is going to close incredibly fast, yikes.
Quote from: Pakuni on June 02, 2025, 11:07:14 AMhttps://x.com/RapSheet/status/1929569634388160910
I wonder if they had an inkling of this ahead of the draft. They took a couple guards, including one in the 2nd if I remember correctly.
Quote from: Jockey on June 02, 2025, 12:26:52 PMI wonder if they had an inkling of this ahead of the draft. They took a couple guards, including one in the 2nd if I remember correctly.
All indications seem to be the Lions were well aware of this possibility.
A back to back All Pro the last 2 years retiring at 29 is brutal. Kudos to him for prioritizing his future but the Barry Sanders flashbacks can't be fun in Detroit.
Quote from: JWags85 on June 02, 2025, 12:47:00 PMA back to back All Pro the last 2 years retiring at 29 is brutal. Kudos to him for prioritizing his future but the Barry Sanders flashbacks can't be fun in Detroit.
IDK, this feels more like a Travis Frederick situation than a Sanders one.
Is Rodgers going to pull a Favre and make the Steelers come to Cali to woo him? Or is he just staying silent to avoid as much of the offseason as possible?
Quote from: Jockey on June 02, 2025, 12:26:52 PMI wonder if they had an inkling of this ahead of the draft. They took a couple guards, including one in the 2nd if I remember correctly.
Glasgow has been working out at center and is more than ready to step in:
https://x.com/colton_pouncy/status/1929586506319942056
Quote from: cheebs09 on June 02, 2025, 01:23:24 PMIs Rodgers going to pull a Favre and make the Steelers come to Cali to woo him? Or is he just staying silent to avoid as much of the offseason as possible?
I think he's waiting for the Deputy Secretary of HHS appointment to come through first.
Quote from: cheebs09 on June 02, 2025, 01:23:24 PMIs Rodgers going to pull a Favre and make the Steelers come to Cali to woo him? Or is he just staying silent to avoid as much of the offseason as possible?
He's missed half the OTAs and mandatory mini-camp starts next week. You'd think he would need to make his decision soon.
IDK...unless he has some verbal agreement already, I would just move on. This already has tons of red flags if you're the Steelers.
Quote from: The Sultan on June 02, 2025, 01:29:43 PMHe's missed half the OTAs and mandatory mini-camp starts next week. You'd think he would need to make his decision soon.
IDK...unless he has some verbal agreement already, I would just move on. This already has tons of red flags if you're the Steelers.
Plus, he sucks
Quote from: The Sultan on June 02, 2025, 12:51:21 PMIDK, this feels more like a Travis Frederick situation than a Sanders one.
I just meant as another elite Lions star to retire very early.
Wasn't Frederick having Guillain-Barre Syndrome, if I recall right, a significant factor? I wasn't aware of Ragnow having an underlying condition?
Quote from: JWags85 on June 02, 2025, 02:19:36 PMI just meant as another elite Lions star to retire very early.
Wasn't Frederick having Guillain-Barre Syndrome, if I recall right, a significant factor? I wasn't aware of Ragnow having an underlying condition?
Just injuries. Frederick was also a pretty smart dude (computer science and engineering double major) and I think was involved in a start up that got sold off last year.
Ah, well. I guess the toe was too painful. I have to assume they had an inkling since they went trenches early. It didn't make a ton of sense to me at the time, except as a long term play to build up depth and have replacements ready when Ragnow and Decker retired. I guess they knew something the rest of us didn't.
Glasgow to center. Two of the three of Mahogany, Ratledge, Frazier at guard. A season from now, I think Ratledge slides to center.
Obviously, Ragnow was a class of one. Detroit has a bunch if big young maulers to choose from.
Quote from: tower912 on June 02, 2025, 03:18:06 PMAh, well. I guess the toe was too painful. I have to assume they had an inkling since they went trenches early. It didn't make a ton of sense to me at the time, accept as a long term play to build up depth and have replacements ready when Ragnow and Decker retired. I guess they knew something the rest of us didn't.
Glasgow to center. Two of the three of Mahogany, Ratledge, Frazier at guard. A season from now, I think Ratledge slides to center.
Obviously, Ragnow was a class of one. Detroit has a bunch if big young maulers to choose from.
The Lions window is shut. Dark days have returned. The Packers run the division now
The Lions windows never opened. The curse supercedes everything.
Quote from: tower912 on June 02, 2025, 03:48:30 PMThe Lions windows never opened. The curse supercedes everything.
If the Packers bring Anders home, lookout
Quote from: Uncle Rico on June 02, 2025, 03:47:31 PMThe Lions window is shut. Dark days have returned. The Packers run the division now
Lions' window shut on a 4th-and-3 in Santa Clara.
Quote from: Pakuni on June 02, 2025, 05:04:50 PMLions' window shut on a 4th-and-3 in Santa Clara.
They're one of the few teams in the NFL that had a one-year window, unlike the Packers who have a window that is always open or the Bears who don't have a window
Quote from: tower912 on June 02, 2025, 03:18:06 PMAh, well. I guess the toe was too painful. I have to assume they had an inkling since they went trenches early. It didn't make a ton of sense to me at the time, accept as a long term play to build up depth and have replacements ready when Ragnow and Decker retired. I guess they knew something the rest of us didn't.
Glasgow to center. Two of the three of Mahogany, Ratledge, Frazier at guard. A season from now, I think Ratledge slides to center.
Obviously, Ragnow was a class of one. Detroit has a bunch if big young maulers to choose from.
Disregarding the facts. Lions terrible franchise drives another star to hate football and retire early. At least this one wasn't top 5 all time
A season ago Philadelphia replaced a legendary center and their O and D coordinators. Just sayin'.
Quote from: The Sultan on June 02, 2025, 02:33:11 PMJust injuries. Frederick was also a pretty smart dude (computer science and engineering double major)
Went to a sh1t school where A's on a bell curve were easy
Quote from: tower912 on June 03, 2025, 06:42:12 AMA season ago Philadelphia replaced a legendary center and their O and D coordinators. Just sayin'.
The difference between a good and a great center is nowhere near the difference between a good LT and a great LT. The Lions line will be fine. They have 2 very OL friendly RBs in place.
Quote from: Jockey on June 03, 2025, 10:28:49 AMThe difference between a good and a great center is nowhere near the difference between a good LT and a great LT. The Lions line will be fine. They have 2 very OL friendly RBs in place.
I don't think this was a big surprise to the Lions:
https://atozsports.com/nfl/detroit-lions-news/the-lions-may-have-been-secretly-telling-us-about-frank-ragnows-retirement-all-offseason-why-nobody-seemed-to-notice/
As I said earlier, the Lions draft makes more sense (two huge mauler SEC linemen) if they knew.
Still, tough to replace a good Minnesota kid. #Chan
Quote from: The Sultan on June 02, 2025, 08:40:47 AMKevin Warren's impact on the Bears stadium efforts has proved worthless (https://chicago.suntimes.com/bears-stadium/2025/06/01/bears-stadium-bill-springfield).
And yet the Bears' prospects for a stadium look 100x better than the Sox.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on June 05, 2025, 02:03:21 PMAnd yet the Bears' prospects for a stadium look 100x better than the Sox.
Which has nothing to do with Kevin Warren. In fact, if not for Kevin Warren, a stadium likely is under construction right now. His dalliance with the lakefront cost the Bears 18 months.
The team can thank Bill Carstanjen and Churchill Downs, Inc., for their stadium prospects.
Not only waste 18 months, but everyone knew the whole lakefront thing was a bluff trying to force concessions from local school districts on a tax issue. It was politically dumb as hell. And now they aren't getting state support for anything...at least not yet.
I'm sure it will eventually work out. The numbers are too good for everyone involved. And I'm sure Kevin Warren will be especially impressed with his performance. But all of this has been penny-wise and pound-foolish.
Rodgers signing with the Steelers. Feels like this probably won't end well.
Quote from: cheebs09 on June 05, 2025, 02:15:51 PMRodgers signing with the Steelers. Feels like this probably won't end well.
It's really a shame he didn't end up in Minnesota to fulfill his destiny as Dongslinger 2.0
The second trilogy could have been more interesting than the first.
Quote from: Pakuni on June 05, 2025, 02:07:07 PMWhich has nothing to do with Kevin Warren. In fact, if not for Kevin Warren, a stadium likely is under construction right now. His dalliance with the lakefront cost the Bears 18 months.
The team can thank Bill Carstanjen and Churchill Downs, Inc., for their stadium prospects.
My comment was in no way a compliment to Warren and the Bears.
Quote from: cheebs09 on June 05, 2025, 02:15:51 PMRodgers signing with the Steelers. Feels like this probably won't end well.
Destroying NFL franchises, one team at a time.
Can't wait to see Tomlin's reaction when he starts ignoring play calls.
Any chance of Anders getting a crack at Boswell's job?
Quote from: Shaka Shart on June 05, 2025, 07:46:06 PMAny chance of Anders getting a crack at Boswell's job?
And threaten Rodgers's alpha spot in the locker room? Hell no!
Packers release Jaire
Quote from: jesmu84 on June 09, 2025, 07:34:28 AMPackers release Jaire
Frees up cap space to bury the hatchet with Anders
See ya'.
Mark Murphy on Jaire Alexander: Great player, but we're used to being without him
Quote from: cheebs09 on June 05, 2025, 02:15:51 PMRodgers signing with the Steelers. Feels like this probably won't end well.
Myles Garrett is excited:
https://x.com/AlbertBreer/status/1932488206118977775
Why do the Bengals hate their defensive ends
Aaron Roger's married
Seems like Gute understood Ja's market just fine.
Quote from: GB Warrior on June 18, 2025, 01:53:59 PMSeems like Gute understood Ja's market just fine.
Feels like stealing money to bet on him being All-Pro this year
Quote from: Uncle Rico on June 18, 2025, 02:11:12 PMFeels like stealing money to bet on him being All-Pro this year
I would but I already placed the no brainer bet on Anders
Quote from: GB Warrior on June 18, 2025, 02:52:22 PMI would but I already placed the no brainer bet on Anders
Packers catch a huge break - Anders released by Jets.
"Now I'm with somebody who's private, who doesn't want to be in the public eye, didn't sign up to be a celebrity, doesn't want to be part of it," Rodgers said June 24. "And because I do things in private because I want my personal life to be private and now I'm somehow weird and now the paparazzi is stalking me on the beach trying to get a picture of her, stalking me in the workout. What is the entitlement to information that where we're living in society these days?"
Yes. He is being held against his will doing the Pat McAfee show every week. He hates publicity and does not want to be a part of it. He even says he'll play 1 more year of football and nobody will ever hear from him again.
Anyway, is this a Manti Teo marriage? Or, speaking of hostages, does he keep her locked up in their house, not allowed to see daylight anywhere? Cameras are everywhere. If they've gone out in public anywhere there would be pictures of them together somewhere.
Quote from: wadesworld on June 25, 2025, 10:20:08 AM"Now I'm with somebody who's private, who doesn't want to be in the public eye, didn't sign up to be a celebrity, doesn't want to be part of it," Rodgers said June 24. "And because I do things in private because I want my personal life to be private and now I'm somehow weird and now the paparazzi is stalking me on the beach trying to get a picture of her, stalking me in the workout. What is the entitlement to information that where we're living in society these days?"
Yes. He is being held against his will doing the Pat McAfee show every week. He hates publicity and does not want to be a part of it. He even says he'll play 1 more year of football and nobody will ever hear from him again.
Anyway, is this a Manti Teo marriage? Or, speaking of hostages, does he keep her locked up in their house, not allowed to see daylight anywhere? Cameras are everywhere. If they've gone out in public anywhere there would be pictures of them together somewhere.
She goes to another high school
I did see someone captured a photo of the happy couple.
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BNzM2NzgxNWMtOTRmYy00NzQ3LTg1OTAtYzU0MmE5YWU2ODAzXkEyXkFqcGc@._V1_.jpg)
Quote from: Uncle Rico on June 25, 2025, 10:25:04 AMShe goes to another high school
They met at Niagara Falls. You wouldn't know her.
Quote from: wadesworld on June 25, 2025, 10:20:08 AM"Now I'm with somebody who's private, who doesn't want to be in the public eye, didn't sign up to be a celebrity, doesn't want to be part of it," Rodgers said June 24. "And because I do things in private because I want my personal life to be private and now I'm somehow weird and now the paparazzi is stalking me on the beach trying to get a picture of her, stalking me in the workout. What is the entitlement to information that where we're living in society these days?"
Yes. He is being held against his will doing the Pat McAfee show every week. He hates publicity and does not want to be a part of it. He even says he'll play 1 more year of football and nobody will ever hear from him again.
Also particularly rich coming from someone who spent the last 10 years before he got to the Jets dating multiple celebrity women and having their relationship in the public eye.
The vast majority of star NFL QBs, not named Tom Brady or Josh Allen, date and marry normal non famous women. He's created an entirely fake narrative to support his faux need for privacy. Totally on par for twilight of his career Aaron.
Quote from: JWags85 on June 25, 2025, 12:42:36 PMAlso particularly rich coming from someone who spent the last 10 years before he got to the Jets dating multiple celebrity women and having their relationship in the public eye.
The vast majority of star NFL QBs, not named Tom Brady or Josh Allen, date and marry normal non famous women. He's created an entirely fake narrative to support his faux need for privacy. Totally on par for twilight of his career Aaron.
He's never gotten over being rejected by Packer fans and not getting the Jeopardy gig. He thought when his team leaked a trade request before the '21 draft he'd get the Dongslinger treatment from fans that he saw in 2008. When the majority of Packer fans shrugged their shoulders and said, "well, bye", it sent him into this tailspin. Couple that with his lying about being vaccinated instead of being honest about it and getting called out, it was over for him and his ego.
All his actions are overcompensation at this point. He's trying to control the narrative by pretending he doesn't care about publicity and being loved. He went from a surefire TV personality in retirement (I'd argue he'd have had an opportunity to have a career like Strahan and Burleson) to being a pariah. He won't take any responsibility and instead will portray himself as a victim of cancel culture.
Really, it's an amazing character study of an individual. Could have been Manning or Brady, but instead is a nobody.
Quote from: wadesworld on June 25, 2025, 10:20:08 AM"Now I'm with somebody who's private, who doesn't want to be in the public eye, didn't sign up to be a celebrity, doesn't want to be part of it," Rodgers said June 24. "And because I do things in private because I want my personal life to be private and now I'm somehow weird and now the paparazzi is stalking me on the beach trying to get a picture of her, stalking me in the workout. What is the entitlement to information that where we're living in society these days?"
Yes. He is being held against his will doing the Pat McAfee show every week. He hates publicity and does not want to be a part of it. He even says he'll play 1 more year of football and nobody will ever hear from him again.
Anyway, is this a Manti Teo marriage? Or, speaking of hostages, does he keep her locked up in their house, not allowed to see daylight anywhere? Cameras are everywhere. If they've gone out in public anywhere there would be pictures of them together somewhere.
And if Mrs. Te'o is such a private person who isn't even on social media, why would she marry a guy who needs public adoration every day?
Quote from: Uncle Rico on June 25, 2025, 12:56:42 PMHe's never gotten over being rejected by Packer fans and not getting the Jeopardy gig. He thought when his team leaked a trade request before the '21 draft he'd get the Dongslinger treatment from fans that he saw in 2008. When the majority of Packer fans shrugged their shoulders and said, "well, bye", it sent him into this tailspin. Couple that with his lying about being vaccinated instead of being honest about it and getting called out, it was over for him and his ego.
All his actions are overcompensation at this point. He's trying to control the narrative by pretending he doesn't care about publicity and being loved. He went from a surefire TV personality in retirement (I'd argue he'd have had an opportunity to have a career like Strahan and Burleson) to being a pariah. He won't take any responsibility and instead will portray himself as a victim of cancel culture.
Really, it's an amazing character study of an individual. Could have been Manning or Brady, but instead is a nobody.
I don't know. Some very smart dentists told me that he was going to win big since they finally will let him pick his teammates. I'm sure that will happen someday.
Quote from: The Sultan on June 25, 2025, 04:13:20 PMI don't know. Some very smart dentists told me that he was going to win big since they finally will let him pick his teammates. I'm sure that will happen someday.
Of all the qqqqqq takes, his Rodgers doesn't like the attention take was one of his greatest hits
Aaron's new teammates looked a lot like his old teammates. Where are the odds his wife looks suspiciously like Danica Patrick
The Steelers seem determined to have the most mercurial team in the league.
https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/breaking-news/article/steelers-acquire-jalen-ramsey-jonnu-smith-while-sending-minkah-fitzpatrick-to-dolphins-in-reported-trade-143949412.html
I don't know what the Packers intend to do with Elgton's contract but they should do it soon
The Pablo Torre reporting on the NFLPA is absolutely insane. The NFL is shameless
Injury parade continues for Detroit. Onwuzurike with ACL surgery.
Trump is threatening to hold up a new stadium deal for Washington's NFL team if it does not restore its old name of the Redskins according to ESPN.
Quote from: Jockey on July 20, 2025, 06:49:59 PMTrump is threatening to hold up a new stadium deal for Washington's NFL team if it does not restore its old name of the Redskins according to ESPN.
More of that classic limited government conservatism I hear so much about
The Athletic wisely disabled the comments section to its article about the situation.
It would have been "lively."
Quote from: Jockey on July 20, 2025, 06:49:59 PMTrump is threatening to hold up a new stadium deal for Washington's NFL team if it does not restore its old name of the Redskins according to ESPN.
Jingling keys to distract the infants.
Quote from: Jockey on July 20, 2025, 06:49:59 PMTrump is threatening to hold up a new stadium deal for Washington's NFL team if it does not restore its old name of the Redskins according to ESPN.
At least he's consistent and using correct grammar.
https://x.com/Thiss_Youu/status/1947231015774122136
If the Commanders come out with Washington Whatevers merch I will be all over this
Quote from: GB Warrior on July 21, 2025, 11:41:28 AMIf the Commanders come out with Washington Whatevers merch I will be all over this
Let's meet in the middle and go with Orangeskins
Quote from: Uncle Rico on July 21, 2025, 11:45:10 AMLet's meet in the middle and go with Orangeskins
Washington Foreskins and 7 years ago
Washington Confederates, soon to play in Robert E. Lee Stadium.
Not being able to buy Chief Wahoo apparel anymore is an attack on my white personhood
Quote from: Uncle Rico on July 21, 2025, 11:45:10 AMLet's meet in the middle and go with Orangeskins
I prefer the Washington Lynch Mob.
My white heritage is on the outs and needs to be restored.
Quote from: Jockey on July 21, 2025, 01:06:39 PMI prefer the Washington Lynch Mob.
My white heritage is on the outs and needs to be restored.
Just call them the Rockets
I'm still guilty of calling them the Redskins sometimes because it is not that important to me.
It should be far, far less important to the President. Let a private business call themselves whatever they want. He needs to grow up. (understatement of the year?)
Washington Babbits
Quote from: GB Warrior on July 21, 2025, 02:00:08 PMWashington Babbits
Hopefully things end up better for Brian Robinson Jr. than his team's namesake when he takes a shot hitting the hole his teammates opened up for him.
Florio is floating the idea of Mark Murphy as the new NFLPA executive director. Which is a wild, but actually a decent idea. He was an NFLPA represenative for the the Redskins back in the day and IMO is way more comfortable in a room of NFL players than NFL owners.
Quote from: The Sultan on July 23, 2025, 04:23:44 PMFlorio is floating the idea of Mark Murphy as the new NFLPA executive director. Which is a wild, but actually a decent idea. He was an NFLPA represenative for the the Redskins back in the day and IMO is way more comfortable in a room of NFL players than NFL owners.
Scab and back again
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45859193/ranking-nfl-2025-season-coaching-staffs-best-worst-coaches-coordinators
Lol. I think KOC is a great coach, but come on. Let's maybe win a single Playoff game before we rank him and the staff above a staff led by Andy Reid. I personally wouldn't have the Vikings top 5, but at least put them 2 at best.
Regarding the Micah Parsons' situation...
‪Anthony K Photos‬
‪@anthonykphotos.bsky.social‬
The Dallas Cowboys are truly Americas team as they also are being ruined by an angry old man who sucks at negotiating.
Quote from: The Sultan on August 01, 2025, 10:36:52 AMRegarding the Micah Parsons' situation...
‪Anthony K Photos‬
‪@anthonykphotos.bsky.social‬
The Dallas Cowboys are truly Americas team as they also are being ruined by an angry old man who sucks at negotiating.
Who is Anthony K Photos?
I'd love to know who does this detailed, analytics based, professional analysis.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on August 01, 2025, 10:51:10 AMWho is Anthony K Photos?
I'd love to know who does this detailed, analytics based, professional analysis.
I'm definitely taking Jerry Jones side here. His football acumen and handling of players is second to none
Quote from: Uncle Rico on August 01, 2025, 11:31:31 AMI'm definitely taking Jerry Jones side here. His football acumen and handling of players is second to none
Speaking as a non-Cowboy fan; I am very happy with Jerry as GM of the Cowboys.
Does anyone love discriminating against successful black athletes before grossly overpaying for their services than JJ?
Quote from: WhiteTrash on August 01, 2025, 10:51:10 AMWho is Anthony K Photos?
I'd love to know who does this detailed, analytics based, professional analysis.
Which angry old guy are you defending here?
Quote from: Pakuni on August 01, 2025, 12:52:52 PMWhich angry old guy are you defending here?
FWIW, I'd value Sultan's personal take on the situation more than Mr. Photos.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on August 01, 2025, 02:29:28 PMFWIW, I'd value Sultan's personal take on the situation more than Mr. Photos.
What did Mr. Photos get wrong?
Quote from: WhiteTrash on August 01, 2025, 10:51:10 AMWho is Anthony K Photos?
I'd love to know who does this detailed, analytics based, professional analysis.
Just some random dude who made an accurate statement.
Quote from: The Sultan on August 01, 2025, 02:44:49 PMJust some random dude who made an accurate statement.
OK, I guess.
In other news, Joe P Smith said "Lamar Jackson is good at football"
;D
So, Bear fans, how is the new coach? Preseason going smoothly?
Vikings fans, is JJ an upgrade over that Darn old quarterback?
Packers fans, does the Love affair continue? Runs toppers on defense? Are the new receivers an upgrade?
I predict Parsons stays in Dallas. Nobody else wants to blow up their salary cap or part with what Dallas reportedly wants.
Quote from: tower912 on August 02, 2025, 08:04:02 PMSo, Bear fans, how is the new coach? Preseason going smoothly?
Vikings fans, is JJ an upgrade over that Darn old quarterback?
Packers fans, does the Love affair continue? Runs toppers on defense? Are the new receivers an upgrade?
I am hoping we can see a healthy year out of Love. I think a lot of his issues were with the injuries. Hoping that led to some of the bad decisions.
Quote from: tower912 on August 02, 2025, 08:04:02 PMSo, Bear fans, how is the new coach? Preseason going smoothly?
Vikings fans, is JJ an upgrade over that Darn old quarterback?
Packers fans, does the Love affair continue? Runs toppers on defense? Are the new receivers an upgrade?
Dentists told me Love doesn't have an NFL arm, so the Packers need to upgrade there
https://www.reddit.com/r/nfl/comments/1mg4kbb/highlight_caleb_williams_is_visibly_frustrated/?share_id=euosFEtvkZOPGpN9j6ggJ&utm_content=1&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=ioscss&utm_source=share&utm_term=4
I think the average Scooper might perform better than this. That's like a 10 yard throw.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on August 03, 2025, 07:12:40 AMDentists told me Love doesn't have an NFL arm, so the Packers need to upgrade there
Is there any reason to not bring Anders in for a chance at QB? That talent can't all be contained in his leg.
Quote from: wadesworld on August 03, 2025, 12:48:42 PMhttps://www.reddit.com/r/nfl/comments/1mg4kbb/highlight_caleb_williams_is_visibly_frustrated/?share_id=euosFEtvkZOPGpN9j6ggJ&utm_content=1&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=ioscss&utm_source=share&utm_term=4
I think the average Scooper might perform better than this. That's like a 10 yard throw.
(https://i.imgflip.com/5c3g9j.gif)
Quote from: wadesworld on August 03, 2025, 12:48:42 PMhttps://www.reddit.com/r/nfl/comments/1mg4kbb/highlight_caleb_williams_is_visibly_frustrated/?share_id=euosFEtvkZOPGpN9j6ggJ&utm_content=1&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=ioscss&utm_source=share&utm_term=4
I think the average Scooper Stevie Wonder 8-) might perform better than this. That's like a 10 yard throw.
If Detroit can avoid injuries, this could be the year the suffering ends.
Having said that, I assume the endless parade of injuries to key players will begin shortly.
Quote from: tower912 on August 03, 2025, 04:46:26 PMIf Detroit can avoid injuries, this could be the year the suffering ends.
Having said that, I assume the endless parade of injuries to key players will begin shortly.
Every team deals with injuries. It's the NFL.
From The Athletic:
6.9 million households tuned in for last Thursday's NFL Hall of Fame Game exhibition, the biggest audience since 2021. Harbinger of massive NFL TV ratings to come this season.
Quote from: MU82 on August 06, 2025, 11:54:17 AMFrom The Athletic:
6.9 million households tuned in for last Thursday's NFL Hall of Fame Game exhibition, the biggest audience since 2021. Harbinger of massive NFL TV ratings to come this season.
They're degenerates, all of us
In a move that will likely hasten their doom (finally):
https://www.upi.com/amp/Top_News/US/2025/08/06/sports-espn-buys-nfl-network/2201754499340/
Quote from: Uncle Rico on August 06, 2025, 01:09:26 PMIn a move that will likely hasten their doom (finally):
https://www.upi.com/amp/Top_News/US/2025/08/06/sports-espn-buys-nfl-network/2201754499340/
I know Smuggles (Heisey) said ESPN was doomed. Didn't he also say the NFL was doomed? I admit I might be misremembering the latter.
They were doomed once they agreed to show Big East games
Quote from: MU82 on August 06, 2025, 01:21:02 PMI know Smuggles (Heisey) said ESPN was doomed. Didn't he also say the NFL was doomed? I admit I might be misremembering the latter.
I bet he went to Bill Ackman's tennis match
Shams reporting Mahomes keeping his options open about his future
Quote from: GB Warrior on August 06, 2025, 06:14:40 PMShams reporting Mahomes keeping his options open about his future
Mahomes and Anders*
Quote from: GB Warrior on August 06, 2025, 06:14:40 PMShams reporting Mahomes keeping his options open about his future
Is this strictly football related?
Quote from: GB Warrior on August 06, 2025, 06:14:40 PMShams reporting Mahomes keeping his options open about his future
Bad news for his wife?
Hey bros, Madden early access begins at 11a. Heading to play pickleball now but if you guys want to play this afternoon lmk
#skol
Haven't played Madden in a number of years. I'm basically down to The Show and NCAA Football only now. And haven't played the new version of either of those yet.
The Athletic, on Shedeur Sanders, who will start Cleveland's exhibition opener ...
Can he beat expectations? His character is already impressing, with The Athletic's Jason Lloyd writing this:
"[Sanders] doesn't come off as entitled. He's never publicly complained once about his slide on draft day. He puts his head down and goes to work. He is cognizant of his teammates and careful that his enormous presence doesn't block them out."
And when his famous father, Deion, wanted to visit training camp? Shedeur told him to stay home. There, Deion can watch his son's debut tomorrow night.
Good for him, if this is true and not just a PR feed.
If he works out, wonder what sort of asset you could get for Watson. Maybe a couple used jock straps?
Quote from: Shaka Shart on August 07, 2025, 12:53:27 PMGood for him, if this is true and not just a PR feed.
Some like The Athletic and some don't. But I don't think they routinely are charged with merely being "PR feeds."
I do think Flacco is still in line to be the starter. I'm not even sure Sanders is second string yet.
Good that he's kept his head down and worked in camp though.
Quote from: cheebs09 on August 07, 2025, 01:34:50 PMI do think Flacco is still in line to be the starter. I'm not even sure Sanders is second string yet.
Good that he's kept his head down and worked in camp though.
Flacco looks more like a QB I can trust
Quote from: Uncle Rico on August 07, 2025, 01:51:23 PMFlacco looks more like a QB I can trust
QB you'd have a beer with
Quote from: GB Warrior on August 07, 2025, 02:02:39 PMQB you'd have a beer with
Definitely a coach's kid, unlike the actual coach's kid.
Quote from: MU82 on August 07, 2025, 12:49:30 PMThe Athletic, on Shedeur Sanders, who will start Cleveland's exhibition opener ...
Can he beat expectations? His character is already impressing, with The Athletic's Jason Lloyd writing this:
"[Sanders] doesn't come off as entitled. He's never publicly complained once about his slide on draft day. He puts his head down and goes to work. He is cognizant of his teammates and careful that his enormous presence doesn't block them out."
And when his famous father, Deion, wanted to visit training camp? Shedeur told him to stay home. There, Deion can watch his son's debut tomorrow night.
Sanders looked really solid and poised in his preseason debut. 14-23, 138 yds, 2 TDs, 106.8, had a 115 rating through the first half.
Obviously its preseason, but he did just about everything you'd want a rookie QB to do. Credit to him for keeping a low profile and grinding through training camp and really having no distractions after the circus of the draft.
I applaud the actions of the Lions and Falcons tonight.
Holders setting up at the opposition's 40 yard line for a field goal is insane.
Quote from: JWags85 on August 08, 2025, 08:36:29 PMSanders looked really solid and poised in his preseason debut. 14-23, 138 yds, 2 TDs, 106.8, had a 115 rating through the first half.
Obviously its preseason, but he did just about everything you'd want a rookie QB to do. Credit to him for keeping a low profile and grinding through training camp and really having no distractions after the circus of the draft.
Agree.
Bryce Young also looked poised, comfortable and totally in command.
The Packers opener looked a lot like the Packers '24 season, caveats applied, of course.
Drops galore. Bad tackling. Missed assignments.
At some point, those things land on the doorstep of the head coach.
Same with the Lions. Another ugly injury.
Quote from: Uncle Rico on August 10, 2025, 08:11:51 AMThe Packers opener looked a lot like the Packers '24 season, caveats applied, of course.
Drops galore. Bad tackling. Missed assignments.
At some point, those things land on the doorstep of the head coach.
Unlike many, I think MLF is on the hot seat this year. 1-5 in the division isn't gonna cut it again. Nor would another 3rd place. Nor would a lack of improvement from Love.
I think Minnesota and Chicago are going to struggle early. Essentially two rookie QBs. If Detroit can avoid further injuries, they are the best in the north. I think the defense is going to be more aggressive. Offensively, perhaps fewer trick plays (Campbell likes them) but more deep shots. (Morton likes them). If the new starters in the O-line work out, I don't see a drop off. And, I think the defense can win games this season.
I think the Packers are the second best team in the division and a playoff team.
Quote from: Jockey on August 10, 2025, 11:28:14 AMUnlike many, I think MLF is on the hot seat this year. 1-5 in the division isn't gonna cut it again. Nor would another 3rd place. Nor would a lack of improvement from Love.
The excuse for them/him last year was they were ahead of schedule in '23 and '24 was what should have been expected (whatever the hell that means). That means they should be playing for a division title at a minimum this year. Barring massive injuries, anything less ought to have him and the front office on the hot seat.
Yes, but.... I know this is going to shock some people based on my history, but I think Detroit can be better than last season. Honestly, the 3 challenges are
1. How their new guys do on the O-line. Ragnow retiring is the one monkey wrench. Ratledge and Mahogany are the keys.
2. Not having 20+ players on the IR for a lot of the season. To borrow from the GM, nobody gameplans for their 8th defensive end.
3. Managing a brutal schedule.
I do not view the departures of Glenn and Johnson as huge problems.
Quote from: Jockey on August 10, 2025, 11:28:14 AMUnlike many, I think MLF is on the hot seat this year. 1-5 in the division isn't gonna cut it again. Nor would another 3rd place. Nor would a lack of improvement from Love.
Not going to freak out about one preseason game where the regulars just didn't do much. But the lack of discipline across the reserves should be concerning.
Quote from: tower912 on August 10, 2025, 12:54:29 PMYes, but.... I know this is going to shock some people based on my history, but I think Detroit can be better than last season. Honestly, the 3 challenges are
1. How their new guys do on the O-line. Ragnow retiring is the one monkey wrench. Ratledge and Mahogany are the keys.
2. Not having 20+ players on the IR for a lot of the season. To borrow from the GM, nobody gameplans for their 8th defensive end.
3. Managing a brutal schedule.
I do not view the departures of Glenn and Johnson as huge problems.
Agree with all of this about the Lions.
As an aside, we recently saw a house with mahogany floors. Very nice.
Quote from: GB Warrior on August 10, 2025, 01:25:54 PMNot going to freak out about one preseason game where the regulars just didn't do much. But the lack of discipline across the reserves should be concerning.
Welcome to Gen Z players
Matthew Golden is getting a lot of love from NFL observers (including from Jordan Love).
I've been saying since before the draft that I thought he was the best WR available. I was hoping the Panthers (who took McMillan #8) would trade down, add assets, and then select Golden.
Quote from: MU82 on August 11, 2025, 11:21:47 AMMatthew Golden is getting a lot of love from NFL observers (including from Jordan Love).
I've been saying since before the draft that I thought he was the best WR available. I was hoping the Panthers (who took McMillan #8) would trade down, add assets, and then select Golden.
Compared to the other WR's on the Packers roster, it's hard not to look good
Quote from: Uncle Rico on August 11, 2025, 11:25:54 AMCompared to the other WR's on the Packers roster, it's hard not to look good
Packers have perfected a brand new offensive position called route runners
Big thumbs down to today's story about the GB QB.
Quote from: tower912 on August 12, 2025, 01:40:45 PMBig thumbs down to today's story about the GB QB.
LOL!
Better in August than December
Quote from: tower912 on August 12, 2025, 01:40:45 PMBig thumbs down to today's story about the GB QB.
*Matt Flynn voice* Luckily Malik Willis is the second best qb in the NFC North.
Excellent news. Football doesn't cause injuries despite what the NYT says according to RFK, Jr. Suck on that, Rondale Moore
Damar Hamlin was god trying to remind us that Jesus is our lord and savior
Quote from: Shaka Shart on August 13, 2025, 09:44:52 PMDamar Hamlin was god trying to remind us that Jesus is our lord and savior
RFK, Jr. and Muggsy setting us straight
Quote from: Uncle Rico on August 13, 2025, 09:46:16 PMRFK, Jr. and Muggsy setting us straight
Introducing someone to darkness is giving them a concussion
It's good to own an NFL franchise.
https://www.sportico.com/feature/nfl-team-values-ranking-list-1234684165/
Quote from: Sir Lawrence on August 14, 2025, 10:26:22 AMIt's good to own an NFL franchise.
https://www.sportico.com/feature/nfl-team-values-ranking-list-1234684165/
Those rates of return barely beat inflation
Quote from: Sir Lawrence on August 14, 2025, 10:26:22 AMIt's good to own an NFL franchise.
https://www.sportico.com/feature/nfl-team-values-ranking-list-1234684165/
After the Blazers got a $4B+ valuation, as a middling team in smaller market, nothing surprises me.
wow, the Vikings have triggered the snowflake masses for something other than their on-field performance.
https://www.newsweek.com/minnesota-vikings-male-cheerleaders-backlash-maga-conservatives-2113363
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on August 14, 2025, 11:39:01 AMwow, the Vikings have triggered the snowflake masses for something other than their on-field performance.
https://www.newsweek.com/minnesota-vikings-male-cheerleaders-backlash-maga-conservatives-2113363
Yup. Can't get snowier or flakier than losers who would stop being a fan over that.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on August 14, 2025, 11:39:01 AMwow, the Vikings have triggered the snowflake masses for something other than their on-field performance.
https://www.newsweek.com/minnesota-vikings-male-cheerleaders-backlash-maga-conservatives-2113363
How am I supposed to jack off to the NFC North now?!
Quote from: Shaka Shart on August 14, 2025, 12:38:48 PMHow am I supposed to jack off to the NFC North now?!
there are 11 other teams that have male cheerleaders, but none in the North, so you'll just have to find another team.
https://sports.yahoo.com/article/12-nfl-teams-adding-male-212045510.html
Quote from: MU82 on August 14, 2025, 12:32:05 PMYup. Can't get snowier or flakier than losers who would stop being a fan over that.
Right?
In college they add a lot with how they toss the girls up in the air. Those guys are fit and smartly spend large amounts of time around cute girls. I've never found male cheerleaders weird.
Wait until they find out Ronald Reagan was a cheerleader in college 🤯
Quote from: Uncle Rico on August 14, 2025, 02:11:23 PMWait until they find out Ronald Reagan was a cheerleader in college 🤯
His wife was good for a tumble in her earlier years too
Quote from: WhiteTrash on August 14, 2025, 02:10:23 PMRight?
In college they add a lot with how they toss the girls up in the air. Those guys are fit and smartly spend large amounts of time around cute girls. I've never found male cheerleaders weird.
my neighbor in McCormick became a cheerleader sophomore year and the guy elected MUSG president for 1995-96 (who worked the desk at McCormick and looked the other way on Friday afternoons, if you know what I mean) was a cheerleader, and both were jacked. Each of them could rip one of these whining candyasses in half...if they actually had the guts to say to their faces what they say online.
These two for the Vikings seem to be dance team members instead of traditional cheerleaders, to which I say "nice job." That is hard work and takes a high level of fitness and skill. Maybe these whiners are jealous...or are afraid they won't be able to avert their gazes.
Quote from: Shaka Shart on August 14, 2025, 02:16:10 PMHis wife was good for a tumble in her earlier years too
At least she wasn't doing nude modeling
Now I can't really argue when ppl call us the Viqueens
Quote from: Jay Bee on August 14, 2025, 04:12:22 PMNow I can't really argue when ppl call us the Viqueens
Why?
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on August 14, 2025, 11:39:01 AMwow, the Vikings have triggered the snowflake masses for something other than their on-field performance.
https://www.newsweek.com/minnesota-vikings-male-cheerleaders-backlash-maga-conservatives-2113363
Real football fans don't want to see that.
They want to see fit young men in tight pants dashing about and touching each other roughly.
Don't start on the relationship between and QB and his center.
Quote from: tower912 on August 14, 2025, 08:47:50 PMDon't start on the relationship between and QB and his center.
What happens between a QB and the center is between the two of them. Unless it's Rex Grossman, then the defense gets involved.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on August 14, 2025, 02:30:28 PMmy neighbor in McCormick became a cheerleader sophomore year and the guy elected MUSG president for 1995-96 (who worked the desk at McCormick and looked the other way on Friday afternoons, if you know what I mean) was a cheerleader, and both were jacked. Each of them could rip one of these whining candyasses in half...if they actually had the guts to say to their faces what they say online.
These two for the Vikings seem to be dance team members instead of traditional cheerleaders, to which I say "nice job." That is hard work and takes a high level of fitness and skill. Maybe these whiners are jealous...or are afraid they won't be able to avert their gazes.
Yea, male cheerleaders are usually former HS football players who weren't good enough to play in college but still are jacked and interested in keeping fit and athletic. I actually knew a male cheerleader in college who was an all-conference LB his sophomore year, broke his leg badly and ended his career, but then ended up joining the cheerleading team on recovery.
As for the male dance team members, it certainly doesn't bother me, but I am vaguely curious who its marketed towards/targeted at. Make whatever modern arguments you want about misogyny and the male gaze, but attractive women have been associated with cheering on male athletes for centuries. Its kind of part and parcel with sports, and it helped spawn the athletic and financial opportunities that cheerleading as a sport has become. Maybe its just simply "whoever wants to be on the dance team can be" which is sort of a change from the previous norm, just curious about the social media/marketing angle cause there always is one. Either way, who really cares, its not hurting anyone.
St Johns had an, ahem, larger male on their dance team circa 19-20 and he was hilarious. Like truly good for him, but seeing a bunch of petite 5'2-5'8 dancers and then a 6'2 dude with a bigger build who was VERY dramatic and into every move was just contrast at its finest and very amusing.
Quote from: JWags85 on August 14, 2025, 09:02:11 PMYea, male cheerleaders are usually former HS football players who weren't good enough to play in college but still are jacked and interested in keeping fit and athletic. I actually knew a male cheerleader in college who was an all-conference LB his sophomore year, broke his leg badly and ended his career, but then ended up joining the cheerleading team on recovery.
As for the male dance team members, it certainly doesn't bother me, but I am vaguely curious who its marketed towards/targeted at. Make whatever modern arguments you want about misogyny and the male gaze, but attractive women have been associated with cheering on male athletes for centuries. Its kind of part and parcel with sports, and it helped spawn the athletic and financial opportunities that cheerleading as a sport has become. Maybe its just simply "whoever wants to be on the dance team can be" which is sort of a change from the previous norm, just curious about the social media/marketing angle cause there always is one. Either way, who really cares, its not hurting anyone.
St Johns had an, ahem, larger male on their dance team circa 19-20 and he was hilarious. Like truly good for him, but seeing a bunch of petite 5'2-5'8 dancers and then a 6'2 dude with a bigger build who was VERY dramatic and into every move was just contrast at its finest and very amusing.
If he wanted to stay jacked and fit, he should have taken up something more manly, like pickleball.
Quote from: JWags85 on August 14, 2025, 09:02:11 PMAs for the male dance team members, it certainly doesn't bother me, but I am vaguely curious who its marketed towards/targeted at. Make whatever modern arguments you want about misogyny and the male gaze, but attractive women have been associated with cheering on male athletes for centuries. Its kind of part and parcel with sports, and it helped spawn the athletic and financial opportunities that cheerleading as a sport has become. Maybe its just simply "whoever wants to be on the dance team can be" which is sort of a change from the previous norm, just curious about the social media/marketing angle cause there always is one. Either way, who really cares, its not hurting anyone.
St Johns had an, ahem, larger male on their dance team circa 19-20 and he was hilarious. Like truly good for him, but seeing a bunch of petite 5'2-5'8 dancers and then a 6'2 dude with a bigger build who was VERY dramatic and into every move was just contrast at its finest and very amusing.
I don't think having a male dancer is "marketed" towards anyone.
This must be the guy you were thinking of. There were other men before him on the dance team too. Society has seemed to survive it.
https://www.torchonline.com/features/2017/10/25/meet-matthew-kirschenheiter/
Reverend Shaw "JB" Moore
I'd be interested in what women think of the male dace team members.
Quote from: WhiteTrash on August 15, 2025, 12:15:45 PMI'd be interested in what women think of the male dace team members.
Statistically less likely to be assaulted by them than by their dentist
Quote from: WhiteTrash on August 15, 2025, 12:15:45 PMI'd be interested in what women think of the male dace team members.
here's a quote from the article I linked above:
One of Kirschenheiter's fellow dancers, Natalie Affenita, said she enjoys dancing alongside Kirschenheiter. As a senior on the team, Affenita says she's had the opportunity to dance with a co-ed team twice during her time at St. John's.
"Matt is always encouraging me through the dances and I absolutely love it," Affenita said. "Overall, Matt is an amazing addition to the team and I can't wait to see what the future holds for him."
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on August 15, 2025, 01:36:17 PMhere's a quote from the article I linked above:
One of Kirschenheiter's fellow dancers, Natalie Affenita, said she enjoys dancing alongside Kirschenheiter. As a senior on the team, Affenita says she's had the opportunity to dance with a co-ed team twice during her time at St. John's.
"Matt is always encouraging me through the dances and I absolutely love it," Affenita said. "Overall, Matt is an amazing addition to the team and I can't wait to see what the future holds for him."
I'm shocked she didn't publicly let loose. smh
This Elgersma guy just has something I like about him that Love and Willis don't. Can't put my finger on it
Quote from: WhiteTrash on August 15, 2025, 12:15:45 PMI'd be interested in what women think of the male dace team members.
You and I are both old enough to remember the 1997 movie
The Full Monty. My guess is that the 50 something women who loved that movie will be fantasizing. Those 40 or younger...not so much.
That was a very competent 93 yard drive by Williams.
The Bears are back!! I don't care if it's preseason. Tremendous drive. :)
Quote from: Shaka Shart on August 17, 2025, 07:21:13 PMThat was a very competent 93 yard drive by Williams.
Nah, the Seahawks whooped the Chiefs in pre-season, they are now the favorites for the Super Bowl.
Quote from: PointWarrior on August 17, 2025, 10:00:54 PMNah, the Seahawks whooped the Chiefs in pre-season, they are now the favorites for the Super Bowl.
Their QB lead his team to a 14-3 record, you never know!
Its preseason, so who really cares. But Williams looked great on his drive and I really liked what I saw from Johnson's offense. Couple of small things like some of the crossing route trees, motion before a few running plays, just a few wrinkles that looked VERY different than the past few years. Nice to have some sort of optimism going into the season with tempered expectations.
Quote from: JWags85 on August 18, 2025, 07:50:22 AMIts preseason, so who really cares. But Williams looked great on his drive and I really liked what I saw from Johnson's offense. Couple of small things like some of the crossing route trees, motion before a few running plays, just a few wrinkles that looked VERY different than the past few years. Nice to have some sort of optimism going into the season with tempered expectations.
Ya. But Caleb missed the net during throwing practice
Alexander Mattison -- do we know what surgery he had? I can't find any real news ... "neck surgery" isn't helpful... I'm guessing he may have had a single-level ACDF.. curious if so, and where.
There are examples of athletes coming back after ACDF and doing well.. Peyton Manning at QB.. Mike Alstott at FB.. and me at PB... but... a little unnerving to first take on contact after the surgery.. hope he's all good next season, but really wondering what procedure(s) he had done.
Quote from: jesmu84 on August 18, 2025, 08:03:21 AMYa. But Caleb missed the net during throwing practice
Nets provide stiffer resistance than whatever the Bills threw out there
Quote from: PointWarrior on August 17, 2025, 10:00:54 PMNah, the Seahawks whooped the Chiefs in pre-season, they are now the favorites for the Super Bowl.
Darnold and Seattle's first-string offense looked every bit as sharp during their stint this weekend as Williams and the Bears' offense did. And the Chiefs actually had most of their defensive starters on the field.
But I know this is your schtick, so run with it!
I won't bet you that the Seahawks will make the Super Bowl, but you and I will probably making some kind of wager on them in the weeks ahead. Hopefully it goes as well as the Marquette-Xavier bet that I won! How about who will win more games, Seattle or Green Bay?
Quote from: MU82 on August 18, 2025, 01:45:53 PMDarnold and Seattle's first-string offense looked every bit as sharp during their stint this weekend as Williams and the Bears' offense did. And the Chiefs actually had most of their defensive starters on the field.
But I know this is your schtick, so run with it!
I won't bet you that the Seahawks will make the Super Bowl, but you and I will probably making some kind of wager on them in the weeks ahead. Hopefully it goes as well as the Marquette-Xavier bet that I won! How about who will win more games, Seattle or Green Bay?
"There also was no Chris Jones (K.C.'s three-time All-Pro defensive tackle) as well as two of K.C.'s starting linebackers and neither starting cornerback."
They did whip up on 6/11 of the KC starting defense.
I will take that bet GB more wins than Seahawks. Another beer?
Quote from: PointWarrior on August 18, 2025, 03:13:39 PM"There also was no Chris Jones (K.C.'s three-time All-Pro defensive tackle) as well as two of K.C.'s starting linebackers and neither starting cornerback."
They did whip up on 6/11 of the KC starting defense.
I will take that bet GB more wins than Seahawks. Another beer?
6/11 starters is pretty typical for the second preseason game. The Seahawks only started 7 of their 11, and those starters only played 2 series.
Sure, I like that bet. Though I already owe you a beer (because you bought me one last time just out of the goodness of your heart - thanks!), so it's more of a double-or-nothing wager!
Wait, teams play their starters in the preseason?
Detroit is being very protective. Which they should, considering all of the depth that has gotten injured, as well as leftover injuries from last season.
The Browns are reportedly keeping four QBs on the roster. So basically they have no QBs
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on August 18, 2025, 03:57:13 PMThe Browns are reportedly keeping four QBs on the roster. So basically they have no QBs
If Goff gets hurt, neither does Detroit.
Quote from: tower912 on August 18, 2025, 04:06:18 PMIf Goff gets hurt, neither does Detroit.
If (insert starting QB's name here) gets hurt, neither does (insert name of injured QB's team here).
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on August 18, 2025, 03:57:13 PMThe Browns are reportedly keeping four QBs on the roster. So basically they have no QBs
I truly have no idea whats going on in Cleveland with their QBs. Sanders has done everything right, looked good in practice, and played well in his start. Gabriel has been banged up, had some TERRIBLE practices, and looked meh in his start. But he's still competing for the backup job with Pickett and Sanders is behind.
Two of my friends who follow the Browns closely can't remember seeing any blogger/beat reporter praising any single Gabriel practice and said everytime they see him mentioned he's been struggling or hurt. Neither of them understood the pick at the time and thought it was horrible, and both think it feels like CYA to make it seem like Stefanski/the GM didn't completely mess that pick up.
Also wild that they had a successful experienced back up in Huntley that seemingly won't be in the 4 QBs. Makes way more sense to have him in the QB room and have one of the rookies on the PS.
Anthony Richardson must be pretty bad to lose his job to the guy that lost his job to Tommy Cutlets.
Quote from: Pakuni on August 19, 2025, 10:38:50 AMAnthony Richardson must be pretty bad to lose his job to the guy that lost his job to Tommy Cutlets.
Richardson will go down as one of the great draft blunders of all time. The Colts drafted him based on athleticism, not results, accuracy or QB skills. He also has a poor work ethic. He's better off as a receiver.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on August 19, 2025, 10:54:41 AMRichardson will go down as one of the great draft blunders of all time. The Colts drafted him based on athleticism, not results, accuracy or QB skills. He also has a poor work ethic. He's better off as a receiver.
He's no Tim Tebow
Quote from: GB Warrior on August 19, 2025, 10:56:58 AMHe's no Tim Tebow
For all of Teblow's faults as a pro QB, at least he led his team to the playoffs.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on August 19, 2025, 11:11:14 AMFor all of Teblow's faults as a pro QB, at least he led his team to the playoffs.
"Led"
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on August 19, 2025, 11:11:14 AMFor all of Teblow's faults as a pro QB, at least he led his team to the playoffs.
Tebow should have been a FB
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on August 19, 2025, 10:54:41 AMRichardson will go down as one of the great draft blunders of all time. The Colts drafted him based on athleticism, not results, accuracy or QB skills. He also has a poor work ethic. He's better off as a receiver.
Not really. Pass on Richardson for Will Levis? Or Hendon Hooker? Or Aiden O'Connell? The '23 draft was a horrible QB draft after Stroud.
The Colts had been kicking the can down the road since the Luck the retirement. They desperately needed a young QB, especially after the Matt Ryan disaster. They were in position with the #4 pick and gambled on Richardson due his measurables. Obviously hasn't worked, but I do get the thinking. And, again, it's not like they drafted Richardson and passed on a Mahomes, Josh Allen or Lamar.
Quote from: RJax55 on August 19, 2025, 12:26:28 PMNot really. Pass on Richardson for Will Levis? Or Hendon Hooker? Or Aiden O'Connell? The '23 draft was a horrible QB draft after Stroud.
The Colts had been kicking the can down the road since the Luck the retirement. They desperately needed a young QB, especially after the Matt Ryan disaster. They were in position with the #4 pick and gambled on Richardson due his measurables. Obviously hasn't worked, but I do get the thinking. And, again, it's not like they drafted Richardson and passed on a Mahomes, Josh Allen or Lamar.
you're comparing the #4 pick to second round and later picks? You have to nail the #4 pick and by blowing this one on a guy who during his only season as a starter completed 53% of his passes and was known to have a questionable work ethic, the Colts set themselves back years.
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on August 19, 2025, 11:11:14 AMFor all of Teblow's faults as a pro QB, at least he led his team to the playoffs.
Trent Dilfer led the Ravens to a Super Bowl
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on August 19, 2025, 01:32:29 PMyou're comparing the #4 pick to second round and later picks? You have to nail the #4 pick and by blowing this one on a guy who during his only season as a starter completed 53% of his passes and was known to have a questionable work ethic, the Colts set themselves back years.
There was no other quarterback available really. And the best player available was likely Jalen Carter, and then??? I know we are only two years in, but that doesn't look like a great draft class.
They took a flyer and it didn't work. At least they are cutting bait and moving on.
Quote from: The Sultan on August 19, 2025, 01:42:32 PMThere was no other quarterback available really. And the best player available was likely Jalen Carter, and then??? I know we are only two years in, but that doesn't look like a great draft class.
They took a flyer and it didn't work. At least they are cutting bait and moving on.
Hope they learned their lesson on drafting someone from Dayton.
Quote from: Pakuni on August 19, 2025, 10:38:50 AMAnthony Richardson must be pretty bad to lose his job to the guy that lost his job to Tommy Cutlets.
That was honestly a pretty savvy signing by Ballard. I don't think Jones is ever gonna be a top 10 QB, but he was coming off a major knee injury on a team that just let their best player go and had their offense skill position relying on rookies and nobodies and with a coach who lost the locker room. He was terrible but so was everything there.
He needed a change of scenery and Indy could be it. I wouldn't be shocked to see him have a decent year.
Quote from: The Sultan on August 19, 2025, 01:42:32 PMThere was no other quarterback available really. And the best player available was likely Jalen Carter, and then??? I know we are only two years in, but that doesn't look like a great draft class.
They took a flyer and it didn't work. At least they are cutting bait and moving on.
Maybe draft a great player who isn't a QB and who can be a stalwart for you for a decade?
Quote from: MU82 on August 19, 2025, 03:47:01 PMMaybe draft a great player who isn't a QB and who can be a stalwart for you for a decade?
As I said, Jalen Carter looks to be the best player that was available at the time. But the rest don't really seem "stalwart-worthy." In retrospect it looks like a pretty weak draft.
Quote from: MU82 on August 19, 2025, 03:47:01 PMMaybe draft a great player who isn't a QB and who can be a stalwart for you for a decade?
What should have the Colts done at QB then? Go with a vet again? They had been trying that with meddling to poor results.
Quote from: The Sultan on August 19, 2025, 03:49:00 PMAs I said, Jalen Carter looks to be the best player that was available at the time. But the rest don't really seem "stalwart-worthy." In retrospect it looks like a pretty weak draft.
Operating in hindsight here, but Witherspoon, Robinson, Carter, Gibbs and Smith-Njigba all look like they'll be pretty nice players for years. IIRC, there was good interest in Richardson because of his athletic ability, so it might have been a great trade-down opportunity for the Colts.
Again, I acknowledge the 20/20 hindsight nature of this kind of discussion.
I will say that I wasn't very happy the Panthers traded so much to move up to draft Young. I'd have rather they had stayed put or traded down and done the best-player-available thing.
Quote from: RJax55 on August 19, 2025, 04:01:25 PMWhat should have the Colts done at QB then? Go with a vet again? They had been trying that with meddling to poor results.
That's what I'd have done, but I just missed the cut on the last round of NFL GM hires! 😎
If I'm drafting a QB that high, I need something less speculative. Plus, 2024 was looking like it would be a good QB draft.
Quote from: MU82 on August 19, 2025, 04:16:22 PMOperating in hindsight here, but Witherspoon, Robinson, Carter, Gibbs and Smith-Njigba all look like they'll be pretty nice players for years. IIRC, there was good interest in Richardson because of his athletic ability, so it might have been a great trade-down opportunity for the Colts.
Again, I acknowledge the 20/20 hindsight nature of this kind of discussion.
I will say that I wasn't very happy the Panthers traded so much to move up to draft Young. I'd have rather they had stayed put or traded down and done the best-player-available thing.
That's what I'd have done, but I just missed the cut on the last round of NFL GM hires! 😎
If I'm drafting a QB that high, I need something less speculative. Plus, 2024 was looking like it would be a good QB draft.
Josh Allen was drafted on measurables. Pat Mahomes was drafted on arm talent. Both were highly speculative picks with college careers that hardily predicted NFL greatness.
The Bills and Chiefs took a leap and it paid off. I can't fault the Colts for doing the same when they absolutely needed a young QB and were in a position to do so.
Quote from: RJax55 on August 19, 2025, 04:01:25 PMWhat should have the Colts done at QB then? Go with a vet again? They had been trying that with meddling to poor results.
They should only spend high draft picks on QBs that won't come to hate football after they're repeatedly beaten into the ground
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on August 19, 2025, 10:54:41 AMRichardson will go down as one of the great draft blunders of all time. The Colts drafted him based on athleticism, not results, accuracy or QB skills. He also has a poor work ethic. He's better off as a receiver.
Jamarcus Russell. Trey Lance. Mitch Trubiskey.
Lots of draft blunders at QB
Andre Ware. Ryan Leaf.
Quote from: jesmu84 on August 19, 2025, 06:21:05 PMJamarcus Russell. Trey Lance. Mitch Trubiskey.
Lots of draft blunders at QB
Money Mitch does not belong with the other two. He was overdrafted and subpar, sure, but light years ahead of those other two.
Quote from: The Sultan on August 19, 2025, 01:42:32 PMThere was no other quarterback available really. And the best player available was likely Jalen Carter, and then??? I know we are only two years in, but that doesn't look like a great draft class.
Quote from: The Sultan on August 19, 2025, 01:42:32 PMThere was no other quarterback available really. And the best player available was likely Jalen Carter, and then??? I know we are only two years in, but that doesn't look like a great draft class.
They took a flyer and it didn't work. At least they are cutting bait and moving on.
Four of the eight guys drafted after Richardson are already Pro Bowlers.
OOooooo.... a Pro-Bowler!!!!
Quote from: Pakuni on August 19, 2025, 07:04:40 PMMoney Mitch does not belong with the other two. He was overdrafted and subpar, sure, but light years ahead of those other two.
At one time, he was the best QB in the North.
Quote from: RJax55 on August 19, 2025, 04:29:40 PMJosh Allen was drafted on measurables. Pat Mahomes was drafted on arm talent. Both were highly speculative picks with college careers that hardily predicted NFL greatness.
The Bills and Chiefs took a leap and it paid off. I can't fault the Colts for doing the same when they absolutely needed a young QB and were in a position to do so.
Reasonable take.
KC had a fairly reliable veteran who was good enough that Mahomes didn't have to be rushed. Mahomes also was not a top-5 pick. Allen feels like a better comp.
So I get what you're saying, but I didn't love the Richardson pick then and I like it less with hindsight. Maybe he'll be a late bloomer and I'll have to eat crow.
35 quarterbacks have been drafted in the first round the last ten seasons. Only four of these guys have made All-Pro teams: Wentz (lol), Mahomes, Jackson, Allen
A number of others are established starters with their current team. A lot of misses. A lot of TBD.
2015: Winston, Marriota
2016: Goff, Wentz, Lynch
2017: Trubisky, Mahomes, Watson
2018: Mayfield, Darnold, Allen, Rosen, Jackson
2019: Murray, Jones, Haskins
2020: Burrow, Tua, Herbert, Love
2021: Lawrence, Wilson, Lance, Fields, Jones
2022: Pickett
2023: Young, Stroud, Richardson
2024: Williams, Daniels, Maye, Penix, McCarthy, Nix
Quote from: JWags85 on August 18, 2025, 07:50:22 AMIts preseason, so who really cares. But Williams looked great on his drive and I really liked what I saw from Johnson's offense. Couple of small things like some of the crossing route trees, motion before a few running plays, just a few wrinkles that looked VERY different than the past few years. Nice to have some sort of optimism going into the season with tempered expectations.
Kinda weird to show packages and play designs in the preseason, but ymmv