Sunday, March 04, 2007

NFL Free Agency

The Texans started the Free Agency period off with a well, a dud. They haven't signed anyone as of today. Their big target, Jake Plummer, was dealt to Tampa Bay because the Texans didn't want to part with a draft pick. I think this logic was a big sign in the Texans new maturity. The old Texans would have done whatever to get the guy and overpaid. But the new Texans realize that Plummer isn't worth more than a late round pick. He's not much better than what they already have. Apparently though, he's said he doesn't want to compete for a job and at Tampa Bay he'll do just that. I have a funny feeling he'll either retire or they will trade him. Definitely watch this one.

I think the only big addition they could have made to the team was Nate Clements. But the shut down corner went to the 49'ers for record money for a DB. While it's debatable if he's worth it, he undoubtedly would have added so much to the team. He would have given us 2 turnover producers on D and covered up some of our deficiencies at Safety.

But look for the Texans to sign mid level free agents. I believe this is the most prudent thing to do. We're so far away from competing at this point and the only way we'll be able to is by allowing our young players to perform. No free agent is going to do this. By signing some mid level guys like Ahman Green or Ashley Lelie, Houston is hoping to catch lightning in a bottle. If they don't, it's no big deal, we didn't back up the Brinks truck.

The main thing is to add depth. We have very little depth at virtually every position. We desperately need to add a veteran to the OL. A veteran RB like Green would be perfect to put in the mix at RB. Another DB would help out youngsters out, especially if we draft one next month.

Most importantly, the Texans need to be smart. Add players that may be overlooked or underpriced. We have less cap room than most teams and a worst reputation. We aren't going to get anyone of note unless we overspend. I'd urge the Texans to go the Moneyball route and try and find value. LB's are frequently looked at as disposable. So are interior offensive lineman. And with our talent level a good Punter is a must. As are good special teams.

As long as the Texans play it smart, they can build the right way, through the draft. The loss of Antwan Peek won't hurt us much since he doesn't fit our system well but I see him making some big plays for the Ravens. Remeber how Steve Foley left Houston and had 10 sacks the next year? Well Peek could do very similar in Baltimore's pressure D.

0 Comments:

Post a Comment

<< Home