AFC South: Tom Brady
» AFC Scenarios: East | West | North | South
Yes, the start of training camps is two months away, but it’s never too early to consider the coming season. A look at the best-case and worst-case scenarios for the Colts in 2012.
Dream scenario (8-8): I consider this a pretty optimistic dream, but since we’re dreaming …
This one would require exemplary rookie seasons from quarterback Andrew Luck, tight ends Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen and at least a few others from the new regime’s first class.
But beyond that, they’ll need several guys from the old regime to play far better in a new system than they did in the old one for which they were better suited.
Donald Brown or Delone Carter will have to run effectively, for example. From a pool of returning cornerbacks, including Chris Rucker, Kevin Thomas, Terrence Johnson and Brandon King, they need to find at least a nickel, and that presumes the guy they just traded for, Cassius Vaughn, will be the second starter. (If I am playing against the Colts, with that collection of defensive backs, I’m trying to get them in dime.)
Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis prove to be pass-rushing demons as outside linebackers in a 3-4 base set in which they are coming from less predictable spots and forcing quarterbacks into all kind of mistakes. Their play offsets the questions at other spots for the defense and helps set up Luck and the offense with good field position.
Nightmare scenario (2-14): Yes, it’s possible the first year of the Ryan Grigson-Chuck Pagano regime matches the last year of the Bill Polian-Jim Caldwell one.
The Colts will face Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, Matthew Stafford and Jay Cutler in 2012. But if things go badly, plenty of second- and third-tier quarterbacks will also shred a patchwork secondary that added only safety Tom Zbikowski in free agency and Vaughn in a trade and got no help in the draft.
The defense can prove to have too few quality pieces to run a 3-4 or a 4-3 effectively, and if it’s giving up a lot of points, Luck will be dropping back a lot to try to lead comebacks. If a line of leftovers and castoffs can’t consistently fend off rushers, there will be trouble.
Should Luck get hurt and miss any time, the team will look to Drew Stanton or seventh-round pick Chandler Harnish. Either one is likely to leave fans pining for the halcyon days of Dan Orlovsky.
Also damaging would be the Texans' ability to stay good and improvements from Tennessee and Jacksonville. The Colts got their two wins last season against the Titans and Texans late in the year.
Yes, the start of training camps is two months away, but it’s never too early to consider the coming season. A look at the best-case and worst-case scenarios for the Colts in 2012.
Dream scenario (8-8): I consider this a pretty optimistic dream, but since we’re dreaming …
This one would require exemplary rookie seasons from quarterback Andrew Luck, tight ends Coby Fleener and Dwayne Allen and at least a few others from the new regime’s first class.
But beyond that, they’ll need several guys from the old regime to play far better in a new system than they did in the old one for which they were better suited.
Donald Brown or Delone Carter will have to run effectively, for example. From a pool of returning cornerbacks, including Chris Rucker, Kevin Thomas, Terrence Johnson and Brandon King, they need to find at least a nickel, and that presumes the guy they just traded for, Cassius Vaughn, will be the second starter. (If I am playing against the Colts, with that collection of defensive backs, I’m trying to get them in dime.)
Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis prove to be pass-rushing demons as outside linebackers in a 3-4 base set in which they are coming from less predictable spots and forcing quarterbacks into all kind of mistakes. Their play offsets the questions at other spots for the defense and helps set up Luck and the offense with good field position.
Nightmare scenario (2-14): Yes, it’s possible the first year of the Ryan Grigson-Chuck Pagano regime matches the last year of the Bill Polian-Jim Caldwell one.
The Colts will face Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, Matthew Stafford and Jay Cutler in 2012. But if things go badly, plenty of second- and third-tier quarterbacks will also shred a patchwork secondary that added only safety Tom Zbikowski in free agency and Vaughn in a trade and got no help in the draft.
The defense can prove to have too few quality pieces to run a 3-4 or a 4-3 effectively, and if it’s giving up a lot of points, Luck will be dropping back a lot to try to lead comebacks. If a line of leftovers and castoffs can’t consistently fend off rushers, there will be trouble.
Should Luck get hurt and miss any time, the team will look to Drew Stanton or seventh-round pick Chandler Harnish. Either one is likely to leave fans pining for the halcyon days of Dan Orlovsky.
Also damaging would be the Texans' ability to stay good and improvements from Tennessee and Jacksonville. The Colts got their two wins last season against the Titans and Texans late in the year.
Marvelous matchups if Manning with Titans
March, 14, 2012
Mar 14
3:43
PM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
If Peyton Manning signs with the Titans, Tennessee will be all over national TV and feature one of the most attractive schedules in the NFL.
People soak up games matching up high-quality quarterbacks.
How might these play?
HOME
If he signs, the battle for the roughly 2,500 game-by-game tickets that typically go on sale in July will be incredible.
And business will perk up in a major way for those scalpers who’ve not fared particularly well in recent years.
Presuming Manning is healthy, we could see some of the best quarterback battles LP Field has ever seen.
People soak up games matching up high-quality quarterbacks.
How might these play?
HOME
- Manning vs. Tom Brady
- Manning vs. Ben Roethlisberger
- Manning vs. Jay Cutler
- Manning vs. Matthew Stafford
- Manning vs. Andrew Luck
- Manning vs. Philip Rivers
- Manning vs. Aaron Rodgers
- Manning vs. Luck
If he signs, the battle for the roughly 2,500 game-by-game tickets that typically go on sale in July will be incredible.
And business will perk up in a major way for those scalpers who’ve not fared particularly well in recent years.
Presuming Manning is healthy, we could see some of the best quarterback battles LP Field has ever seen.
Carl from Iowa writes: I still don't understand why Miami still seems to be a favorite to land Peyton. Why would he choose to play against Tom Brady twice, Rex twice, and at least one hellishly cold game in Buffalo every season? The AFC East already has two legitimate teams, and I think if he chooses Miami he's headed straight for irrelevance (as much as Peyton could be irrelevant).
Paul Kuharsky: I don’t know that Miami will be the favorite for Peyton Manning if he’s free.
I guess New England is a sure thing to be good, but you really think Manning is fearing Rex Ryan? Or anyone?
If I am him, I’m not putting a lot of weight into what division I’m playing in. It’s not about the other guys, it’s about you and your guys.
And things change so dramatically year to year, what’s to say he goes to a “softer” division, say to Arizona in the NFC West, only to see the Seahawks emerge as a big breakout team to go along with the 49ers next season? There are surprises every year -- good teams getting bad and vice versa.
Marty from Jacksonville writes: You say you like Gene Smith but then you go on to say "it would take quite an effort to be worse" for the Jaguars in 2012. Are you saying you like Gene Smith personally but you think he's incompetent?
Paul Kuharsky: That’s quite a leap you made there. That’s not what I am saying at all.
I like him and he’s found some very good players. The defensive additions last season were excellent.
His quarterback of choice played too soon and was horrible. It doesn’t mean Blaine Gabbert is going to be horrible for life.
Good people who are good at their jobs are part of bad seasons all the time. It doesn’t make them incompetent.
Matt from Miami Fla., writes: "Independent of that, I’ve fished around to see if I should allow the idea of Tennessee pursuing Manning to breathe or do my part to snuff it out. And all indications have been that wise reporting would be to do the latter." Why don't you just report on what's happening regardless of what you consider wise? If it's happening and affecting people on your beat, report it. You won't go wrong that way.
Paul Kuharsky: I wasn't saying what move would be wise, I was saying what would be wise to report. My desire there was to be transparent. I’d gotten indications they weren't interested in Manning that I was not ready to report. Then general manager Ruston Webster said what he said, and that changed the environment and made what I had appropriate to share as a supplement to his public comments.
Jason Peters from Los Angeles writes: If we, the Titans, need a new potential free agent to lust over, it should be Mario Williams. In his prime and within the division? That's a rare opportunity. Plus we have plenty of cash to spend.”
Paul Kuharsky: Don’t get carried away with the “plenty of cash” concept. Between $30-35 million available, but a good share of that money has to fund Cortland Finnegan or a replacement, two starting safeties (Michael Griffin, Chris Hope, and Jordan Babineaux are gone or need to be re-signed), a starting guard (Jake Scott’s gone) and a defensive linemen (either Jason Jones or his replacement). If that lineman is Williams, that’s a big chunk of that money.
Yes, they can afford him. But Williams will be overpaid. And the Titans don’t generally say, “We’re willing to overpay in order to get Player X.” They generally go find Player Y instead.
Aaron M from Houston writes: Paul, first off love your blog man always have an interesting way of looking at things. My comment is has to deal with the recent celebration of Justin Tuck at the Super Bowl, where he does the Namaste bow after a sack. And as anyone that has a TV knows Arian Foster has done this almost every week since he has been in the league. Normally I wouldn’t have a problem with something like this but the fact that he went on the Fallon show and coined it as "Tucking" had me at a loss for words. Just wanted to see what your thoughts were and if someone should call him out for his sticky fingers. Have at it.
Paul Kuharsky: I think it would be pretty hard to claim a copyright on the move, which happens all over the place all the time. Tuck, not Foster, is the one who got to do it on the big stage, so he gets to claim it/ name it/ whatever. But who’s going to jump on board and call bowing like that "Tucking" when it’s been called bowing forever?
Brutus from Houston: I know everyone is clamoring for the Texans to take a receiver with their first pick, but is it conceivable that they could take another cornerback or outside linebacker with that pick due to the depth at the receiver position?
Paul Kuharsky: We have to see who goes (and comes) in free agency before we know their top needs. Sure they could take another corner, though I’d hope Brandon Harris will be ready to be more of a contributor. If Mario Williams is gone, they certainly need a better third option to take some snaps off the plate of Connor Barwin and Brooks Reed and provide depth at outside linebacker.
I also don’t think the Texans think themselves as receiver-needy as many outsiders do. But they should add at least one weapon.
Paul Kuharsky: I don’t know that Miami will be the favorite for Peyton Manning if he’s free.
I guess New England is a sure thing to be good, but you really think Manning is fearing Rex Ryan? Or anyone?
If I am him, I’m not putting a lot of weight into what division I’m playing in. It’s not about the other guys, it’s about you and your guys.
And things change so dramatically year to year, what’s to say he goes to a “softer” division, say to Arizona in the NFC West, only to see the Seahawks emerge as a big breakout team to go along with the 49ers next season? There are surprises every year -- good teams getting bad and vice versa.
Marty from Jacksonville writes: You say you like Gene Smith but then you go on to say "it would take quite an effort to be worse" for the Jaguars in 2012. Are you saying you like Gene Smith personally but you think he's incompetent?
Paul Kuharsky: That’s quite a leap you made there. That’s not what I am saying at all.
I like him and he’s found some very good players. The defensive additions last season were excellent.
His quarterback of choice played too soon and was horrible. It doesn’t mean Blaine Gabbert is going to be horrible for life.
Good people who are good at their jobs are part of bad seasons all the time. It doesn’t make them incompetent.
Matt from Miami Fla., writes: "Independent of that, I’ve fished around to see if I should allow the idea of Tennessee pursuing Manning to breathe or do my part to snuff it out. And all indications have been that wise reporting would be to do the latter." Why don't you just report on what's happening regardless of what you consider wise? If it's happening and affecting people on your beat, report it. You won't go wrong that way.
Paul Kuharsky: I wasn't saying what move would be wise, I was saying what would be wise to report. My desire there was to be transparent. I’d gotten indications they weren't interested in Manning that I was not ready to report. Then general manager Ruston Webster said what he said, and that changed the environment and made what I had appropriate to share as a supplement to his public comments.
Jason Peters from Los Angeles writes: If we, the Titans, need a new potential free agent to lust over, it should be Mario Williams. In his prime and within the division? That's a rare opportunity. Plus we have plenty of cash to spend.”
Paul Kuharsky: Don’t get carried away with the “plenty of cash” concept. Between $30-35 million available, but a good share of that money has to fund Cortland Finnegan or a replacement, two starting safeties (Michael Griffin, Chris Hope, and Jordan Babineaux are gone or need to be re-signed), a starting guard (Jake Scott’s gone) and a defensive linemen (either Jason Jones or his replacement). If that lineman is Williams, that’s a big chunk of that money.
Yes, they can afford him. But Williams will be overpaid. And the Titans don’t generally say, “We’re willing to overpay in order to get Player X.” They generally go find Player Y instead.
Aaron M from Houston writes: Paul, first off love your blog man always have an interesting way of looking at things. My comment is has to deal with the recent celebration of Justin Tuck at the Super Bowl, where he does the Namaste bow after a sack. And as anyone that has a TV knows Arian Foster has done this almost every week since he has been in the league. Normally I wouldn’t have a problem with something like this but the fact that he went on the Fallon show and coined it as "Tucking" had me at a loss for words. Just wanted to see what your thoughts were and if someone should call him out for his sticky fingers. Have at it.
Paul Kuharsky: I think it would be pretty hard to claim a copyright on the move, which happens all over the place all the time. Tuck, not Foster, is the one who got to do it on the big stage, so he gets to claim it/ name it/ whatever. But who’s going to jump on board and call bowing like that "Tucking" when it’s been called bowing forever?
Brutus from Houston: I know everyone is clamoring for the Texans to take a receiver with their first pick, but is it conceivable that they could take another cornerback or outside linebacker with that pick due to the depth at the receiver position?
Paul Kuharsky: We have to see who goes (and comes) in free agency before we know their top needs. Sure they could take another corner, though I’d hope Brandon Harris will be ready to be more of a contributor. If Mario Williams is gone, they certainly need a better third option to take some snaps off the plate of Connor Barwin and Brooks Reed and provide depth at outside linebacker.
I also don’t think the Texans think themselves as receiver-needy as many outsiders do. But they should add at least one weapon.
Reading the coverage ...
Houston Texans
The Texans-coached AFC squad won the Pro Bowl, writes Nick Scurfield of the team’s website.
While the votes were really spread out, more players at the Senior Bowl said they’d like to play for the Texans than any other NFL team, says Tommy Hicks of the Press-Register. (Hat tip to Alan Burge.)
Indianapolis Colts
Peyton Manning is overshadowing Eli Manning and Tom Brady, says Michael Silver of Yahoo!
Steelers linebackers coach Keith Butler is scheduled to interview for the Colts' defensive coordinator job Tuesday, says Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star.
The Ravens are set to hire Jim Caldwell as their quarterbacks coach, reports Adam Schefter.
Jim Irsay denies plans for Manning are set.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Jack Del Rio is the new defensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos, says Tania Ganguli of the Florida Times-Union.
Mike Mularkey’s son, Patrick Mularkey, has moved from the scouting department to the strength and conditioning staff, says Ganguli.
Shahid Khan’s yacht is docked in Jacksonville and it’s for sale, says Matt Soergel of the Times-Union.
Tennessee Titans
Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck breaks down the Patriots-Giants Super Bowl with Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean.
Wyatt broke down the Titans with a look at 2011 salaries.
Houston Texans
The Texans-coached AFC squad won the Pro Bowl, writes Nick Scurfield of the team’s website.
While the votes were really spread out, more players at the Senior Bowl said they’d like to play for the Texans than any other NFL team, says Tommy Hicks of the Press-Register. (Hat tip to Alan Burge.)
Indianapolis Colts
Peyton Manning is overshadowing Eli Manning and Tom Brady, says Michael Silver of Yahoo!
Steelers linebackers coach Keith Butler is scheduled to interview for the Colts' defensive coordinator job Tuesday, says Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star.
The Ravens are set to hire Jim Caldwell as their quarterbacks coach, reports Adam Schefter.
Jim Irsay denies plans for Manning are set.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Jack Del Rio is the new defensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos, says Tania Ganguli of the Florida Times-Union.
Mike Mularkey’s son, Patrick Mularkey, has moved from the scouting department to the strength and conditioning staff, says Ganguli.
Shahid Khan’s yacht is docked in Jacksonville and it’s for sale, says Matt Soergel of the Times-Union.
Tennessee Titans
Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck breaks down the Patriots-Giants Super Bowl with Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean.
Wyatt broke down the Titans with a look at 2011 salaries.
Mike Sando’s final MVP Watch is out and you can peruse it here.
If I had an MVP vote, I’d use it on Aaron Rodgers. If it was a three-deep ballot, mine would be Rodgers, Drew Brees and Tom Brady.
Maurice Jones-Drew had a phenomenal season for the Jaguars. But Sando knocked him off his final list as he parted ways with players from losing teams.
I don’t have an issue with that.
I think MJD is incredibly valuable. No non-QB in the league accounted for nearly as large a percentage of his team's yards.
But the Jaguars could have easily lost 11 games without him. And part of that huge reliance on him is a result not of him forcing them to give him the ball, but of them having nary another consistently viable option to throw or hand the ball to.
Without Jones-Drew, the Jaguars probably wouldn’t have won the five games they did. But five games aren’t enough, and he suffers for being on a bad team.
As Sando goes 10-deep on his weekly post during the season, he creates a secondary question: Who’s the most valuable non-quarterback in the league?
In order on his ballot: Detroit receiver Calvin Johnson, Baltimore running back Ray Rice, New England tight end Rob Gronkowski, Arizona receiver Larry Fitzgerald and New Orleans running back Darren Sproles.
All but Fitzgerald are in the playoffs, and the Cardinals managed an 8-8 finish.
It’s hard for me to make the case for Jones-Drew as having more value than any of those guys.
I’m guessing many of you will feel differently about a guy who impressively ran through stacked boxes all season long.
If I had an MVP vote, I’d use it on Aaron Rodgers. If it was a three-deep ballot, mine would be Rodgers, Drew Brees and Tom Brady.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Bob LeveroneMaurice Jones-Drew had an MVP-caliber season despite Jacksonville's 5-11 record.
AP Photo/Bob LeveroneMaurice Jones-Drew had an MVP-caliber season despite Jacksonville's 5-11 record.I don’t have an issue with that.
I think MJD is incredibly valuable. No non-QB in the league accounted for nearly as large a percentage of his team's yards.
But the Jaguars could have easily lost 11 games without him. And part of that huge reliance on him is a result not of him forcing them to give him the ball, but of them having nary another consistently viable option to throw or hand the ball to.
Without Jones-Drew, the Jaguars probably wouldn’t have won the five games they did. But five games aren’t enough, and he suffers for being on a bad team.
As Sando goes 10-deep on his weekly post during the season, he creates a secondary question: Who’s the most valuable non-quarterback in the league?
In order on his ballot: Detroit receiver Calvin Johnson, Baltimore running back Ray Rice, New England tight end Rob Gronkowski, Arizona receiver Larry Fitzgerald and New Orleans running back Darren Sproles.
All but Fitzgerald are in the playoffs, and the Cardinals managed an 8-8 finish.
It’s hard for me to make the case for Jones-Drew as having more value than any of those guys.
I’m guessing many of you will feel differently about a guy who impressively ran through stacked boxes all season long.
RTC: Jags have to find pass pressure
December, 8, 2011
12/08/11
7:29
AM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Reading the coverage …
Houston Texans
Jeff Garcia said he hadn’t totally checked out, but he wasn’t throwing every other day either when the Texans called, writes Jeffrey Martin of the Houston Chronicle. I have no idea what he has left. But if something happens to T.J. Yates and the Texans have to play a fourth quarterback, he or Jake Delhomme is probably as good an alternative as can be found.
Indianapolis Colts
Baltimore’s old guard will never forget the way the Colts sneaked out of town, and certainly is enjoying Indianapolis’ struggle this season, says Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star. I can understand why that scar is still there for people who were dedicated to a team that bolted.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Philip Rivers was too comfortable in the pocket in San Diego’s win over the Jaguars Monday night, writes Vito Stellino of the Times-Union. To give their inexperienced cornerbacks a chance, the Jaguars simply have to find a way to pressure the quarterback better.
Tennessee Titans
Quarterbacks Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady are all in position to threaten Dan Marino’s record for single-season passing yards, says Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean. As the Titans prepare for Brees and the Saints, Wyatt looks at what’s created so many passing yards.
Houston Texans
Jeff Garcia said he hadn’t totally checked out, but he wasn’t throwing every other day either when the Texans called, writes Jeffrey Martin of the Houston Chronicle. I have no idea what he has left. But if something happens to T.J. Yates and the Texans have to play a fourth quarterback, he or Jake Delhomme is probably as good an alternative as can be found.
Indianapolis Colts
Baltimore’s old guard will never forget the way the Colts sneaked out of town, and certainly is enjoying Indianapolis’ struggle this season, says Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star. I can understand why that scar is still there for people who were dedicated to a team that bolted.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Philip Rivers was too comfortable in the pocket in San Diego’s win over the Jaguars Monday night, writes Vito Stellino of the Times-Union. To give their inexperienced cornerbacks a chance, the Jaguars simply have to find a way to pressure the quarterback better.
Tennessee Titans
Quarterbacks Drew Brees, Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady are all in position to threaten Dan Marino’s record for single-season passing yards, says Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean. As the Titans prepare for Brees and the Saints, Wyatt looks at what’s created so many passing yards.On Peyton Manning as an MVP candidate
October, 26, 2011
10/26/11
12:05
PM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
He could get a vote, maybe more than one.
Peyton Manning as an MVP candidate in absentia was a semi-clever joke very early on in the Colts’ miserable season. It does little for me now, however.
Sure Manning’s value has been evident. In the coaching booth and now on the sideline, he’s chimed in to help Curtis Painter as much as possible. We know he covered up a ton of issues on both side of the ball and even on special teams.
Some players, like tight end Dallas Clark and receiver Austin Collie, are absolutely pedestrian without Manning doing the throwing for the Colts. Defensive misplays that used to be covered up when the offense could score much more and more quickly are completely exposed.
My case against Manning getting any real MVP consideration is two-fold:
Same for Tom Brady or Drew Brees.
Colts center Jeff Saturday aligns with me.
"I hadn't heard that," he said, laughing when asked about Manning as an MVP candidate this season. "I didn't know that that was even a consideration. ... I think that's kind of silly when you've got guys who are having great years. To have that kind of conversation, I don't think is worth discussing."
Manning is a great player, and we’ve learned more about him while he’s been away.
It’s ridiculous to suggest he’s proving himself more valuable not playing than Rodgers, Brady or Brees are proving themselves valuable while playing.
Peyton Manning as an MVP candidate in absentia was a semi-clever joke very early on in the Colts’ miserable season. It does little for me now, however.
Some players, like tight end Dallas Clark and receiver Austin Collie, are absolutely pedestrian without Manning doing the throwing for the Colts. Defensive misplays that used to be covered up when the offense could score much more and more quickly are completely exposed.
My case against Manning getting any real MVP consideration is two-fold:
- While this would be a far better team with him, I’m not certain this team would have been one of the AFC’s best. Ten wins? Maybe. Nine? Also very possible.
- More significantly, the award is about someone’s performance, not the failure of a team to perform without someone valuable. If Aaron Rodgers finishes the season with numbers anything close to what he’s on pace for, if the Packers roll to the top seed in the NFC, how could anyone in good conscious cast a vote for Manning over Rodgers?
Same for Tom Brady or Drew Brees.
Colts center Jeff Saturday aligns with me.
"I hadn't heard that," he said, laughing when asked about Manning as an MVP candidate this season. "I didn't know that that was even a consideration. ... I think that's kind of silly when you've got guys who are having great years. To have that kind of conversation, I don't think is worth discussing."
Manning is a great player, and we’ve learned more about him while he’s been away.
It’s ridiculous to suggest he’s proving himself more valuable not playing than Rodgers, Brady or Brees are proving themselves valuable while playing.
Peyton Manning conveyed a strong message to Colts owner Jim Irsay on Thursday and shared it with Mike Chappell on Friday: Spend elsewhere.
Colts fans will really like the “go get other players” part of that.
Manning also instructed his agent, Tom Condon, and the Colts on his desired timetable: “Today, tomorrow, definitely by Sunday.” He said rumors swirling that suggested he’d asked for as much as $25 million annually did not start with him.
The Colts report to Anderson, Ind., on Sunday and begin practicing Monday, although Manning will not be on the field at the start, as he is still recovering from neck surgery.
“I told [Irsay and Bill Polian] my cap numbers can be as low as they want them to be in being creative with the salary cap,’’ Manning said.
Tom Brady’s contract averages $18 million a year. The franchise tag number currently connected to Manning is $23 million. Even a very big long-term deal will drive that down.
The new salary cap is $120.3 million, with an additional $3 million of wiggle room.
Chappell reports veteran right tackle Ryan Diem has been asked to trim his $5.4 million salary or be released. He also wrote that the team is in discussions with Addai and Johnson.
A Manning deal that doesn’t push the limits should be able to be completed in short order. And if the Colts want to be able to pursue one or two outside free agents, there will be fewer and fewer available as they sign in the coming days.
Manning is doing the Colts a huge favor here -- he's not obligated to help them manage their cap. By doing so, he has the potential to come across as heroic while also increasing his chances of winning a second Super Bowl.
A true win-win.
“While I appreciate Jim Irsay offering to make me the highest-paid player, I told him I’d rather he save that money and keep whoever it is . . . Joe Addai, Charlie Johnson, whoever that may be.
“I’m willing to take less than they’ve offered if they are going to take that money to keep players we need to keep and go get other players. All I want is for them to have the cap and the cash to keep the players they want to keep and to sign other players.’’
Colts fans will really like the “go get other players” part of that.
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Brian Spurlock/US PresswirePeyton Manning said he's "willing to take less" if the Colts are going to retain key free agents.
Brian Spurlock/US PresswirePeyton Manning said he's "willing to take less" if the Colts are going to retain key free agents.The Colts report to Anderson, Ind., on Sunday and begin practicing Monday, although Manning will not be on the field at the start, as he is still recovering from neck surgery.
“I told [Irsay and Bill Polian] my cap numbers can be as low as they want them to be in being creative with the salary cap,’’ Manning said.
Tom Brady’s contract averages $18 million a year. The franchise tag number currently connected to Manning is $23 million. Even a very big long-term deal will drive that down.
The new salary cap is $120.3 million, with an additional $3 million of wiggle room.
Chappell reports veteran right tackle Ryan Diem has been asked to trim his $5.4 million salary or be released. He also wrote that the team is in discussions with Addai and Johnson.
A Manning deal that doesn’t push the limits should be able to be completed in short order. And if the Colts want to be able to pursue one or two outside free agents, there will be fewer and fewer available as they sign in the coming days.
Manning is doing the Colts a huge favor here -- he's not obligated to help them manage their cap. By doing so, he has the potential to come across as heroic while also increasing his chances of winning a second Super Bowl.
A true win-win.
Manning deal will be difficult, but doable
July, 25, 2011
7/25/11
9:02
PM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Some will view Jim Irsay’s comments on the limitations for a new Peyton Manning contract as posturing.
ManningWhile they might serve that purpose, there is something else to note about them: They are true.
If the Colts pay Manning somewhere between $20 million and $25 million annually, they’ll hurt their ability to build a roster around him and to contend in his remaining years.
Now, that doesn’t mean I come down on the other side, either, with the extremists who believe Manning should play for the minimum to maximize his team’s chances to win. He’s not the Colts' accountant or salary-cap guy; he’s in prime earning years and he should get what he can.
At the same time, Irsay and Bill Polian need to make sure they make things as favorable as they can even with the promise that Manning will become the league’s top-paid player.
It’s doable.
That league cap number will rise down the road, especially when there are new TV deals. So a contract that averages $20 million or $25 million annually will be more palatable later. What both sides will need is a structure they can agree on that will allow for an average that can be based on larger cap numbers later.
But that’s a sportswriter talking, not a Colts accountant or a big-time agent representing a four-time MVP.
If the Colts pay Manning somewhere between $20 million and $25 million annually, they’ll hurt their ability to build a roster around him and to contend in his remaining years.
Now, that doesn’t mean I come down on the other side, either, with the extremists who believe Manning should play for the minimum to maximize his team’s chances to win. He’s not the Colts' accountant or salary-cap guy; he’s in prime earning years and he should get what he can.
At the same time, Irsay and Bill Polian need to make sure they make things as favorable as they can even with the promise that Manning will become the league’s top-paid player.
It’s doable.
That league cap number will rise down the road, especially when there are new TV deals. So a contract that averages $20 million or $25 million annually will be more palatable later. What both sides will need is a structure they can agree on that will allow for an average that can be based on larger cap numbers later.
But that’s a sportswriter talking, not a Colts accountant or a big-time agent representing a four-time MVP.
Reading the coverage ...
Houston Texans
The lockout has claimed another victim: The Texans and Saints agreed to cancel their annual joint practices.
Arian Foster won an ESPY award Wednesday night for the Castrol EDGE NFL Strongest Performance.
In an interview with Yahoo! Sports, Foster opened up about how he's been spending his time during the lockout, how he'd advise undrafted free agents and whether there should be a rookie wage scale.
Responding to comments from James Harrison that he was "juiced out of his mind," Brian Cushing said "I'll pray for [Harrison]."
Indianapolis Colts
Peyton Manning, Tom Brady and Drew Brees filed a joint statement Wednesday. "We believe the overall proposal made by the players is fair for both sides and it is time to get this deal done. This is the time of the year we as players turn our attentions to the game on the field. We hope the owners feel the same."
Former Colts defensive lineman Erwin Baldwin didn't care for James Harrison's interview in Men's Journal, tweeting, "Man just seen James Harrison comments dude is a goon."
Jacksonville Jaguars
Black & Teal's Luke N. Sims projects what can be expected from the Jaguars' receivers and offensive linemen this season.
Tennessee Titans
Randy Moss' agent, Joel Segal, told NFL.com that his client is in "freakish shape." "He is determined, motivated and quite frankly has a huge chip on his shoulder. Whatever team ends up getting Randy, they're going to know they're getting the old Randy Moss," Segal said.
Will Mike Munchak have the toughest coaching job in the league after the lockout ends?
Houston Texans
The lockout has claimed another victim: The Texans and Saints agreed to cancel their annual joint practices.
Arian Foster won an ESPY award Wednesday night for the Castrol EDGE NFL Strongest Performance.
In an interview with Yahoo! Sports, Foster opened up about how he's been spending his time during the lockout, how he'd advise undrafted free agents and whether there should be a rookie wage scale.
Responding to comments from James Harrison that he was "juiced out of his mind," Brian Cushing said "I'll pray for [Harrison]."
Indianapolis Colts
Peyton Manning, Tom Brady and Drew Brees filed a joint statement Wednesday. "We believe the overall proposal made by the players is fair for both sides and it is time to get this deal done. This is the time of the year we as players turn our attentions to the game on the field. We hope the owners feel the same."
Former Colts defensive lineman Erwin Baldwin didn't care for James Harrison's interview in Men's Journal, tweeting, "Man just seen James Harrison comments dude is a goon."
Jacksonville Jaguars
Black & Teal's Luke N. Sims projects what can be expected from the Jaguars' receivers and offensive linemen this season.
Tennessee Titans
Randy Moss' agent, Joel Segal, told NFL.com that his client is in "freakish shape." "He is determined, motivated and quite frankly has a huge chip on his shoulder. Whatever team ends up getting Randy, they're going to know they're getting the old Randy Moss," Segal said.
Will Mike Munchak have the toughest coaching job in the league after the lockout ends?
A lot of you have wanted to see “Power Rankings” and “finale” in the same sentence for some time. Congratulations, today’s your day.
We wrap our offseason, conversation-starting series with the crown jewel: The top 10 best players in the NFL.
I represent the AFC South aggressively in Dan Graziano’s piece on the voting results and in the attached video.
Peyton Manning finished second to Tom Brady. You’ll hear my familiar refrain about Manning: He’s simply asked to do more than anyone in the league, and he does it very well.
Feel free to look back at this post from last summer, where I respond to the basic complaints of Manning’s critics.
None of this is meant as a slight to Brady, who’s obviously also a superb player.
I do think we blew it in the overall results. I completely understand being quarterback heavy. I probably could have and should have been more so. But chasing those quarterbacks down is a monstrous element of the game, and to not have at least one pass-rusher make this list is a mistake.
At any rate, here is my ballot. I remind you it’s just one eighth of the results that you’ll find in Graziano’s fine piece.
We wrap our offseason, conversation-starting series with the crown jewel: The top 10 best players in the NFL.
I represent the AFC South aggressively in Dan Graziano’s piece on the voting results and in the attached video.
Peyton Manning finished second to Tom Brady. You’ll hear my familiar refrain about Manning: He’s simply asked to do more than anyone in the league, and he does it very well.
Feel free to look back at this post from last summer, where I respond to the basic complaints of Manning’s critics.
None of this is meant as a slight to Brady, who’s obviously also a superb player.
I do think we blew it in the overall results. I completely understand being quarterback heavy. I probably could have and should have been more so. But chasing those quarterbacks down is a monstrous element of the game, and to not have at least one pass-rusher make this list is a mistake.
At any rate, here is my ballot. I remind you it’s just one eighth of the results that you’ll find in Graziano’s fine piece.
- Peyton Manning
- Tom Brady
- Drew Brees
- Aaron Rodgers
- Adrian Peterson
- Chris Johnson
- Andre Johnson
- Troy Polamalu
- Clay Matthews
- DeMarcus Ware
QB Power Rankings: Manning got my vote
April, 26, 2011
4/26/11
1:05
PM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Give me Tom Brady or Peyton Manning and I will be perfectly happy.
Call me a divisional homer for voting Manning No. 1 in our quarterback Power Rankings, I can take it.
Here is Pat Yasinskas’ writeup of the polling.
Obviously Brady is phenomenal and he could quarterback my team any day. But Manning is asked to do more than any quarterback in the league, he does it exceptionally well and it makes him the league’s top quarterback in my eyes. His durability and anticipation rank a notch above everyone else.
And as Mike Sando points out, while Brady gets the check mark in the championships column, compare the recent playoff performances of Manning and Brady and Manning’s actually been better.
Scramble the order a bit if you like, but I think the top six are clear cut. The bottom three of the list includes a lot more room for debate, though I feel pretty strongly about Matt Ryan and Michael Vick, too.
I didn’t include Matt Schaub on my list, though I think he’s just on the outside of this group. I know the entire organization bristles as the characterization, but I need to see him be more clutch in big moments and big games to bump him up a few spots.
Here’s my ballot. This is just one-eighth of the final results, which you can find through the link above.
Call me a divisional homer for voting Manning No. 1 in our quarterback Power Rankings, I can take it.
Here is Pat Yasinskas’ writeup of the polling.
And as Mike Sando points out, while Brady gets the check mark in the championships column, compare the recent playoff performances of Manning and Brady and Manning’s actually been better.
Scramble the order a bit if you like, but I think the top six are clear cut. The bottom three of the list includes a lot more room for debate, though I feel pretty strongly about Matt Ryan and Michael Vick, too.
I didn’t include Matt Schaub on my list, though I think he’s just on the outside of this group. I know the entire organization bristles as the characterization, but I need to see him be more clutch in big moments and big games to bump him up a few spots.
Here’s my ballot. This is just one-eighth of the final results, which you can find through the link above.
- Peyton Manning
- Tom Brady
- Aaron Rodgers
- Drew Brees
- Ben Roethlisberger
- Philip Rivers
- Matt Ryan
- Michael Vick
- Eli Manning
- Matt Cassel
Foster third in OPY, behind Brady, Vick
February, 1, 2011
2/01/11
8:28
PM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Houston Texans running back Arian Foster was outpointed in AP’s offensive player of the year voting by Tom Brady, who’s expected to be crowned MVP on Sunday, and Michael Vick.
Brady got 21 votes, Vick 11 and Foster seven. Three others also got votes: San Diego quarterback Philip Rivers (five), Atlanta receiver Roddy White (two) and Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers (two).
Brady’s season was spectacular, but I’ve always kind of found it odd that a certain level of MVP also collects the offensive or defensive player of the year award while another does not. When it does overlap, it seems redundant.
It would have been quite an honor for Foster, who led the league in rushing and scoring just a year after he was undrafted out of Tennessee.
If he can come close to the effort on a better team, he could be in the running again someday.
Brady got 21 votes, Vick 11 and Foster seven. Three others also got votes: San Diego quarterback Philip Rivers (five), Atlanta receiver Roddy White (two) and Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers (two).
Brady’s season was spectacular, but I’ve always kind of found it odd that a certain level of MVP also collects the offensive or defensive player of the year award while another does not. When it does overlap, it seems redundant.
It would have been quite an honor for Foster, who led the league in rushing and scoring just a year after he was undrafted out of Tennessee.
If he can come close to the effort on a better team, he could be in the running again someday.
Is Arian Foster offensive player of the year?
February, 1, 2011
2/01/11
11:04
AM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
In the Pro Football Writers of America/Pro Football Weekly ballot for year-end awards, there are instructions. If your MVP plays offense, he should be your offensive player of the year. If he plays defense, he should be your defensive player of the year.
The official awards, which come out of a vote from an Associated Press panel of 50 writers, come with no such instructions.
And so voters for the award that will be revealed tonight faced a choice: Is Tom Brady, who’s clearly going to win MVP after he was unanimously named the All-Pro quarterback, also your offensive player of the year? Or do you look elsewhere?
Last season, when Peyton Manning won his fourth MVP, voters turned to a standout season from Titans running back Chris Johnson for offensive player of the year.
Arian Foster’s numbers weren’t what Johnson’s were, but the back, who was undrafted in 2009, led the league in rushing and scoring in his second season.
I think voters are less concerned that the offensive and defensive players of the year come from winning teams, and Foster has a strong case.
Who’s his primary competition?
I’d say Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Michael Vick and Roddy White could all get votes.
We’ll find out tonight who gets the most.
The official awards, which come out of a vote from an Associated Press panel of 50 writers, come with no such instructions.
And so voters for the award that will be revealed tonight faced a choice: Is Tom Brady, who’s clearly going to win MVP after he was unanimously named the All-Pro quarterback, also your offensive player of the year? Or do you look elsewhere?
Last season, when Peyton Manning won his fourth MVP, voters turned to a standout season from Titans running back Chris Johnson for offensive player of the year.
Arian Foster’s numbers weren’t what Johnson’s were, but the back, who was undrafted in 2009, led the league in rushing and scoring in his second season.
I think voters are less concerned that the offensive and defensive players of the year come from winning teams, and Foster has a strong case.
Who’s his primary competition?
I’d say Brady, Aaron Rodgers, Michael Vick and Roddy White could all get votes.
We’ll find out tonight who gets the most.
RTC: Defense can be a quick fix for Texans
January, 19, 2011
1/19/11
9:15
AM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Reading the coverage ...
Houston Texans
The Texans' run-game turnaround proves even the defense can be fixed quickly, says John McClain.
At least the Texans aren’t getting ripped like the Falcons and the Ravens, says Richard Justice (sarcastically).
Indianapolis Colts
Gene Huey was surprised to be fired, says Phil Richards.
Peyton Manning versus Tom Brady is closer than you think, says Mike Chappell.
Checking in on the timing of contract talks for Manning with John Oehser.
Jacksonville Jaguars
At an East-West Shrine Game practice, Jack Del Rio declined to comment on the Jaguars' refusal to let the Rams talk to Dirk Koetter, says Tania Ganguli.
Tennessee Titans
Michael Griffin is a Pro Bowler if the Steelers win Sunday, says Jim Wyatt.
Chad Pennington could be another quarterback in the mix for Tennessee, says Wyatt.
Houston Texans
The Texans' run-game turnaround proves even the defense can be fixed quickly, says John McClain.
At least the Texans aren’t getting ripped like the Falcons and the Ravens, says Richard Justice (sarcastically).
Indianapolis Colts
Gene Huey was surprised to be fired, says Phil Richards.
Peyton Manning versus Tom Brady is closer than you think, says Mike Chappell.
Checking in on the timing of contract talks for Manning with John Oehser.
Jacksonville Jaguars
At an East-West Shrine Game practice, Jack Del Rio declined to comment on the Jaguars' refusal to let the Rams talk to Dirk Koetter, says Tania Ganguli.
Tennessee Titans
Michael Griffin is a Pro Bowler if the Steelers win Sunday, says Jim Wyatt.
Chad Pennington could be another quarterback in the mix for Tennessee, says Wyatt.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Paul Kuharsky
Kuharsky joined ESPN.com in 2008 after 12 years covering the Oilers/Titans and the NFL for The (Nashville) Tennessean. The New Jersey native and Columbia graduate lives in Nashville with his wife and son.
