Danno

Here's what I'd like to see a new regime do, assuming we get a decent "football guy" GM, a real HC, OC and DC.

Re-negotiate with Horn and Howard 1st and foremost. If they don't want to re-negotiate, give 'em skates.

Free-agent moves, minimum
1. Upgrade the NT spot. Bring in a vet or two, much like we did with Hand, to plug the 1-Technique. It would allow Young to do his thing. Since the Sully mistake was from the previous regime it would understandable to finally cut bait.

2. Upgrade all 3 LB spots. Our best LB going into 2005 will be Courtney Watson, and he can probably play all 3 spots if necessary. Bring in solid free-agent LB's for ALL 3 positions. If they have produced and still have a few years left, sign them immediately. Overpay if necessary.

3. Bring in a replacement for Brooks. While I don't think our problems are Brook's fault, I do think the team needs a new identity. Entertain offers and see whats available. We went to our 1st playoff game with a virtual unknown 3rd stringer and less talent top to bottom so its not the end-all to replace him.

4. Upgrade the O-line IF there is a solid O-lineman or two available. Target Riley's tackle spot and a good OG. If a good center is available move Bentley back to RG.

5. If a good possession type WR who can go across the middle is available, sign him. He doesn't need to be fast. We have speed out the yang already. Gimme an Ed McCaffrey, Keenan McCardell type please.


Draft
Look at needs over BPA. Unless another Deuce or Will Smith slips we need to target weaknesses. If the guy you're picking can't come in and contribute right away, you better be talking about a 5th, 6th or 7th rounder.

LB-No explanation necessary. I think we ALL agree this is priority one. Laughing stock of the league.

O-line- Any good LT/RT in the 1st few rounds, and maybe a good OG in the later rounds.

DB- I don't mean just CB. A solid safety as well. With McKenzie, Thomas, Craft, Brown, and Ambrose we can afford to go later rounds for a CB that needs a few years to develop, but we could upgrade Bellamy and Jones. Mitchell is still a question mark.

TE- If one slips, nab him. Boo and Ernie are just as responsible for the inconsistent offense as Brooks is.

Also,
1. I'd consider making Cie Grant drop to about 225 to reduce wear on that knee, and move him to WLB or even safety if he can get down to about 215. He may never play again but I think the odds are better if he's at 225 or less. He was a play-maker in college at 225, lets see what he can do at WLB or SS. Who knows? He may be the next Derrick Brooks at WLB or John Lynch at SS. If he fails miserably what have we lost?

2. I'd cut Hodge and Allen before anyone even mentions 2005 training camp. There would be dancing in the streets.

3. I'd give Sully Rickey Williams phone number and hope they strike up a close and personal relationship. Maybe Sully will try and travel the world smoking dope and we could re-coup some of that bonus money. hey, a guy can dream huh?