The Roster Equation: Depth or Special Teams Demons

MonkFan I broke your post into paragraphs, makes it easier to read.

I think you keep Ade. I think we've seen, throughout the NFL, that many games are won or lost on good special teams play. I'd rather have an Ade who I know can pin the opponent's offense back on a good special teams play.

I agree with Schneed's comment that if Wright and AA can play, there isn't an issue.

Special teams has been the one real bright spot for us, winning at least 2 games for us (blocked FG, blocked punt).

THe issue is scouting and FO analysis. But lets go with the assumption that each coordinator gets to pretty much pick his players. Then Gibbs/Saunders are doing ok, Williams is looking very weak, and Danny Smith looks very good. The issue seems to be defensive scouting, not too much emphasis on specials, IMO.

Good thread.

MonkFan I broke your post into paragraphs, makes it easier to read.

I think you keep Ade. I think we've seen, throughout the NFL, that many games are won or lost on good special teams play. I'd rather have an Ade who I know can pin the opponent's offense back on a good special teams play.


Thanks I knew I forgot something !

Well for a few years guys like Marshall and Pierce were only ST'ers. I think the ST realm is a spot where young guys have a chance to contribute while polishing their position skills to try to develop into talent, but unless they're returners or kickers, you shouldn't keep a guy around that is just for special teams.

Look at thrash... a STer that can seriously contribute if needed to. He may not have the gifts of other recievers, but you can line him up and count on him... unlike Ade...

We've always kept a plethora of LBs around that were just a bit "undersized" or whatever to pay ST's, and they usually wind up doing all right...

The one thing we don't need to mess with is our coverage unit.
Agreed. Danny Smith is the only coach I'd give a grade better than C this season. The coverage units were the best I remember in years here, plus they blocked 2 punts plus the FG that led to the Dallas win. You have to assume guys like your #4 receivers and DBs can play special teams also.