NFC West: Reggie White
Thaisport from San Francisco wants my take on the Peyton Manning news regarding the San Francisco 49ers. He thinks this is a "win-win" situation because Manning would deliver an NFC West title to the 49ers, Manning would make every offensive player better and the team knows Alex Smith will still be there as a fallback.
Manning"A solid core of offensive players around a decent QB can make him look good," Thaisport writes. "A great QB around a solid core of players would make them look great. I think the 49ers front office is making all the right moves so far this off season. Your thoughts?"
Mike Sando: It's clear we need to break old habits when analyzing the 49ers. They were an easy team to mock when Jed York was publicly guaranteeing division titles with an 0-5 record, Mike Singletary was dropping trou as head coach, the team was changing offensive coordinators every year, Smith was floundering and the stadium situation remained a mess.
We should not underestimate this organization. York has led a successful push for a new stadium. He went against convention when hiring Trent Baalke as his general manager, with better-than-expected results (think NaVorro Bowman, Carlos Rogers, Donte Whitner, paying Ray McDonald instead of Aubrayo Franklin). The organization secured Jim Harbaugh as head coach when Harbaugh was the hottest and, it turns out, best candidate. Gideon Yu and Kunal Malik were also strategic additions.
Now, one week into the Manning circus, we find out the 49ers have made a very calculating move to position themselves for the quarterback's services. This strikes me as something the 49ers would not have seriously considered right after the season, when the bond between Smith and Harbaugh was strongest. This decision was easier to make a couple months into the offseason, when strategic thinking takes its firmest hold.
This is a bold move, and one an organization doesn't make without leadership at the ownership level. York presumably saw this as a rare opportunity to seize upon a championship window. Sticking with Smith would have been more comfortable. The 49ers might wind up going that route, anyway. They could have some damage control to do if that is the case. But nothing ventured, nothing gained. Randy Moss' addition was another move with the short term in mind.
Smith has shown he's adept at swallowing his pride. And in this case, we're talking about Peyton Manning, not some average quarterback. I'm reminded of Arizona defensive end Darnell Dockett's public support for Manning as Kevin Kolb's replacement on the Cardinals. Dockett said he would have no trouble with someone lobbying for the team to sign a new defensive end if Reggie White or Bruce Smith were the ones under consideration.
That is how I feel about teams pursuing Manning when they already have quarterbacks in place. Those teams' existing quarterbacks might not like it, but that is too bad for them. Owners, executives and coaches have a responsibility to act in the best interests of their organizations. Looking into Manning qualifies as that type of move.
Mike Sando: It's clear we need to break old habits when analyzing the 49ers. They were an easy team to mock when Jed York was publicly guaranteeing division titles with an 0-5 record, Mike Singletary was dropping trou as head coach, the team was changing offensive coordinators every year, Smith was floundering and the stadium situation remained a mess.
We should not underestimate this organization. York has led a successful push for a new stadium. He went against convention when hiring Trent Baalke as his general manager, with better-than-expected results (think NaVorro Bowman, Carlos Rogers, Donte Whitner, paying Ray McDonald instead of Aubrayo Franklin). The organization secured Jim Harbaugh as head coach when Harbaugh was the hottest and, it turns out, best candidate. Gideon Yu and Kunal Malik were also strategic additions.
Now, one week into the Manning circus, we find out the 49ers have made a very calculating move to position themselves for the quarterback's services. This strikes me as something the 49ers would not have seriously considered right after the season, when the bond between Smith and Harbaugh was strongest. This decision was easier to make a couple months into the offseason, when strategic thinking takes its firmest hold.
This is a bold move, and one an organization doesn't make without leadership at the ownership level. York presumably saw this as a rare opportunity to seize upon a championship window. Sticking with Smith would have been more comfortable. The 49ers might wind up going that route, anyway. They could have some damage control to do if that is the case. But nothing ventured, nothing gained. Randy Moss' addition was another move with the short term in mind.
Smith has shown he's adept at swallowing his pride. And in this case, we're talking about Peyton Manning, not some average quarterback. I'm reminded of Arizona defensive end Darnell Dockett's public support for Manning as Kevin Kolb's replacement on the Cardinals. Dockett said he would have no trouble with someone lobbying for the team to sign a new defensive end if Reggie White or Bruce Smith were the ones under consideration.
That is how I feel about teams pursuing Manning when they already have quarterbacks in place. Those teams' existing quarterbacks might not like it, but that is too bad for them. Owners, executives and coaches have a responsibility to act in the best interests of their organizations. Looking into Manning qualifies as that type of move.
The Arizona Cardinals' quarterbacks should not be offended, in my view, when teammate Darnell Dockett publicly encourages Peyton Manning to sign with the team. Manning is an all-time great, after all.
Still, Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic raised a valid point when asking "how Dockett would react if one of the three quarterbacks tweeted that the team needed to sign a left defensive end in free agency."
That apparently caught Dockett's attention.
"Somebody was like, 'Well, what if Kevin Kolb said we're going to improve the left defensive end?,'" Dockett said Wednesday on "SportsCenter." "Honestly, if it were Bruce Smith or Reggie White, I would say, 'Let's do it, then. Let me watch and learn.'"
Point taken.
Still, Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic raised a valid point when asking "how Dockett would react if one of the three quarterbacks tweeted that the team needed to sign a left defensive end in free agency."
That apparently caught Dockett's attention.
"Somebody was like, 'Well, what if Kevin Kolb said we're going to improve the left defensive end?,'" Dockett said Wednesday on "SportsCenter." "Honestly, if it were Bruce Smith or Reggie White, I would say, 'Let's do it, then. Let me watch and learn.'"
Point taken.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Thoughts after the San Francisco 49ers' 36-32 divisional playoff victory over the New Orleans Saints on Saturday at Candlestick Park:
What it means: The 49ers are headed to the NFC title game against the winner of the New York Giants-Green Bay Packers game Sunday. They will play at home if the Giants win. They will visit Green Bay if the Packers win. Alex Smith and Vernon Davis showed their playoff mettle in leading the 49ers back from fourth-quarter deficits not once, but twice. This will go down as one of the great games in 49ers history and in NFL postseason history.
What I liked: Smith's winning 14-yard touchdown pass to Davis showed the 49ers were playing to win, not for overtime. On the 49ers' previous drive, Smith's 37-yard strike to Davis up the left sideline and 28-yard touchdown run on a beautifully executed keeper put the 49ers ahead with 2:11 remaining. The 49ers played the game on their terms early, delivering punishing hits while hawking the ball. They forced three first-quarter turnovers and built a 17-3 lead. Dashon Goldson outfoxed Drew Brees to pick off one pass. Tarell Brown made an athletic play for another interception. Smith capitalized on the turnovers, finding Davis for a 49-yard touchdown and Michael Crabtree for a 4-yarder that showed San Francisco has indeed made progress in the red zone recently. Donte Whitner in particular roughed up the Saints, knocking out running back Pierre Thomas with a concussion and pounding tight end Jimmy Graham. The defense held firm after the 49ers suffered their first turnover in six games, right before halftime.
What I didn't like: The 49ers' defense, ranked fourth overall in yards allowed per game during the regular season, gave up go-ahead pass plays covering 44 and 66 yards in the final five minutes. The 49ers forced four first-half turnovers and still led by only three. Smith paid for the aggressive offensive plan, taking third-down sacks, including one that led to the 49ers' first turnover since a Week 12 game at Baltimore. Crabtree, after making his scoring grab, had trouble holding onto the ball on contested throws. The 49ers needed him to win those battles. Goldson went for the big hit on Marques Colston, but Brees led Colston away from trouble, producing a 31-yard gain when the 49ers led by only six points in the third quarter. Frank Gore had seven drops during the season and had a hard time throwing in this game, sending one back to Smith on a hop to sap the potential from a trick play. The 49ers' defense cracked with the game on the line, allowing Darren Sproles' go-ahead 44-yard touchdown reception.
Play calling raised eyebrows: The 49ers' aggressiveness on offense led them away from the ground game. The early passing helped the 49ers take a 14-0 lead with scoring passes to Davis and Crabtree. Pass plays continued outnumbering runs as the game progressed, however, and the 49ers did not get into a rhythm on the ground. The 49ers had 29 pass attempts and 15 rushes through three quarters. They also had taken four sacks to that point, widening the disparity. The strategy was easy to question because the 49ers' wide receivers were not playing at a high level.
Defensive player of the year: It would be tough to argue against the 49ers' Justin Smith, the team's most consistent and consistently dominant player. Smith's brute power won out when he sacked Brees on third down when the 49ers absolutely needed a stop in the third quarter. Later, with 49ers up only three, Smith drove Pro Bowl left tackle Jermon Bushrod into Brees for a sack. These were Reggie White-type plays at critical moments.
Injury notes: The 49ers got receiver Ted Ginn Jr. back from injury, but Ginn spent as much time on the exercise bike as on the field, it seemed. His knee was a problem. Ginn had trouble getting much traction in the return game and was called for pass interference late in the third quarter. Officials flagged receiver Kyle Williams for offensive interference on the next play. Both calls appeared straightforward. The Saints declined both.
What's next: The NFC title game.
Debate: Charles Haley's case for the Hall
July, 18, 2011
7/18/11
3:25
PM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
Skip Bayless and Dan Graziano took up the case for Charles Haley as a Pro Football Hall of Famer on ESPN's First Take.
Bayless thought Haley should have qualified on the first ballot as a key championship variable for the San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys. Bayless and Graziano also touched upon to what degree Haley's sometimes disagreeable and disruptive behavior affected his candidacy. Those are relevant factors, but this discussion is incomplete without acknowledging what role the process plays in enshrinement.
To say that Haley or another player should have earned enshrinement in a given year usually suggests another player wasn't as deserving. The Hall accepts no more than seven candidates per year, including a maximum of two seniors candidates, meaning even deserving candidates must be more deserving than those actually enshrined to raise a serious beef.
Haley was first eligible in 2005. Steve Young and Dan Marino were the only modern-era candidates elected that year. Michael Irvin and Harry Carson were also finalists that year, but neither received the 80 percent approval rating required for enshrinement. Both became Hall of Famers later. Was Haley obviously more deserving than those four?
Troy Aikman, Warren Moon, Reggie White and Carson comprised the 2006 modern-era class. Irvin, Bruce Matthews, Thurman Thomas and Roger Wehrli comprised the 2007 modern-era class. Fred Dean, Darrell Green, Art Monk and Gary Zimmerman made it in 2008. Randall McDaniel, Bruce Smith, Derrick Thomas, Rod Woodson and Ralph Wilson made it in 2009. The 2010 class featured Rickey Jackson, John Randle, Jerry Rice and Emmitt Smith.
The current class includes Richard Dent, Marshall Faulk, Deion Sanders, Shannon Sharpe and Ed Sabol.
We could argue that he was more deserving than a candidate here or there, but only a very few elite candidates -- Rice, White, Emmitt Smith, Bruce Smith, etc. -- have credentials strong enough to transcend any Hall class.
Tim Brown, Roger Craig, Dermontti Dawson, Andre Reed, Cris Carter, Cortez Kennedy, Bob Kuechenberg, Randy Gradishar, L.C. Greenwood and several of the above-mentioned Hall of Famers have also been finalists since Haley became eligible.
Was Haley obvious more deserving than each of them? It's a debate worth having, but also one that goes beyond whether Haley should get in at all.
Patrick Peterson principle: Ware over Revis
May, 24, 2011
5/24/11
9:04
PM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
Jake from Lafayette, Calif., strongly disagrees with my decision to rank DeMarcus Ware third and Darrelle Revis only ninth in our rankings for top defensive players. He says Ware has yet to "consistently perform at an elite level, and he can't even anchor the Dallas defense to a decent level," while Revis "consistently shuts down any superstar wide receivers" for a playoff-tested defense.
Ware
RevisMike Sando: It's misleading to say Ware has not consistently performed at an elite level, or that he has not played for good defenses.
Ware has 80 sacks in six NFL seasons, including 46.5 over the past three. The Cowboys were second in points allowed two seasons ago. They have ranked among the top 10 in yards allowed three of the past four seasons. Football Outsiders' defensive rankings also put them in the top third to top half of the league multiple times.
The Cowboys haven't had great defenses, but they've had decent defenses. Ware has been a dominant player for those defenses.
Consider that the great Bruce Smith had 76.5 sacks in his first six NFL seasons, but he never had more than 43 sacks over a three-year stretch of his 19-year career.
Kevin Greene, who ranks third on the since-1982 career sack list, once had 45 sacks in a three-year span. Reggie White, who ranks second, had 57 sacks over three seasons.
Sacks do not define players, but the great pass-rushers tend to get a lot of them. Ware certainly does.
Even if Revis played cornerback better than Ware played outside linebacker, it's still plausible to rank Ware higher based on overall impact.
Quarterbacks can decide to throw away from Revis. They have apparently done this, explaining why Revis had zero interceptions last season. Quarterbacks cannot avoid Ware as easily. Teams can set their blocking schemes to handle him, but if they do this, they're making significant sacrifices in other areas. I think those sacrifices outweigh the sacrifices associated with throwing away from Revis. Teams can send up to four other players into pass patterns.
Great cornerbacks still have value, of course. But the overall principle applies in the NFL.
That's why LSU cornerback Patrick Peterson lasted until the fifth overall choice even though he was arguably the best player in the draft, independent of positional considerations. The Arizona Cardinals were thrilled to get Peterson, but there's a reason pass-rusher Von Miller went second overall. Teams value what Miller does more than they value what Peterson does, even though Peterson also provides value in the return game.
Ware has 80 sacks in six NFL seasons, including 46.5 over the past three. The Cowboys were second in points allowed two seasons ago. They have ranked among the top 10 in yards allowed three of the past four seasons. Football Outsiders' defensive rankings also put them in the top third to top half of the league multiple times.
The Cowboys haven't had great defenses, but they've had decent defenses. Ware has been a dominant player for those defenses.
Consider that the great Bruce Smith had 76.5 sacks in his first six NFL seasons, but he never had more than 43 sacks over a three-year stretch of his 19-year career.
Kevin Greene, who ranks third on the since-1982 career sack list, once had 45 sacks in a three-year span. Reggie White, who ranks second, had 57 sacks over three seasons.
Sacks do not define players, but the great pass-rushers tend to get a lot of them. Ware certainly does.
Even if Revis played cornerback better than Ware played outside linebacker, it's still plausible to rank Ware higher based on overall impact.
Quarterbacks can decide to throw away from Revis. They have apparently done this, explaining why Revis had zero interceptions last season. Quarterbacks cannot avoid Ware as easily. Teams can set their blocking schemes to handle him, but if they do this, they're making significant sacrifices in other areas. I think those sacrifices outweigh the sacrifices associated with throwing away from Revis. Teams can send up to four other players into pass patterns.
Great cornerbacks still have value, of course. But the overall principle applies in the NFL.
That's why LSU cornerback Patrick Peterson lasted until the fifth overall choice even though he was arguably the best player in the draft, independent of positional considerations. The Arizona Cardinals were thrilled to get Peterson, but there's a reason pass-rusher Von Miller went second overall. Teams value what Miller does more than they value what Peterson does, even though Peterson also provides value in the return game.
With the offseason in full swing, let’s take a look at one major question facing each NFC West team as it begins preparations for the 2011 season:
ARIZONA CARDINALS
What happens to the offensive line?
We've been asking, answering and asking some more questions about the Cardinals' quarterback situation for months. Let's tap a few brain cells to discuss the guys up front.
Center Lyle Sendlein and right guard Deuce Lutui are without contracts for 2011. Left guard Alan Faneca might retire. Right tackle Brandon Keith is coming off hamstring and knee injuries that shortened his first season as a starter. The Cardinals do not have fresh talent in reserve. They have drafted only one offensive lineman in the first four rounds since Ken Whisenhunt became head coach in 2007. Twenty-seven teams have drafted more. As much as the team trusts assistant head coach Russ Grimm to get the most from its offensive line, Arizona could use fresh young talent for him to groom.
The Cardinals went through the 2010 season with the NFL's oldest offensive linemen, counting backups. That wouldn't matter so much if left tackle Levi Brown were meeting the Pro Bowl expectations that came with his status as a top-five overall selection in the 2007 draft. Brown was underwhelming at right tackle to begin his career and a liability at left tackle last season. His salary balloons in 2012, so this could be his last season in Arizona.
ST. LOUIS RAMS
Can the defense take the next step?
The Rams allowed 328 points last season, tied for the third-lowest total since the team moved from Los Angeles for the 1995 season. They allowed seven rushing touchdowns, their lowest total since 1999 and down from 50 combined over the previous two seasons. But with starting defensive linemen James Hall and Fred Robbins turning 34 this offseason, and with questions at linebacker, the Rams' defense will not automatically go from competitive toward dominant.
Hall will be looking to become the 14th player since 1982 (when the NFL began tracking sacks as an official stat) to collect 10 sacks in a season at age 34 or older. The others: Trace Armstrong, Chris Doleman, William Fuller, Kevin Greene, Rickey Jackson, Ed "Too Tall" Jones, Tony McGee, Steve McMichael, John Randle, Warren Sapp, Bruce Smith, Michael Strahan and Reggie White.
Robbins is coming off one of his finest seasons. He joined Keith Traylor, Jeff Zgonina and Ray Agnew among defensive tackles to set career highs for sacks at age 32 or older in the free-agency era (since 1993).
Getting similar production and continued good health from two older players is no given. The Rams also need to find help at outside linebacker after losing 32-year-old Na'il Diggs to a torn pectoral muscle 12 games into the 2010 season. The Rams are set at middle linebacker with James Laurinaitis, but they could stand to upgrade around him.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
How well can Jim Harbaugh coach up a quarterback?
When the 49ers' new coach needed a quarterback at Stanford, he recruited one. Andrew Luck set records and led the Cardinal to national prominence. Recruiting isn't a significant part of the equation in the NFL, so Harbaugh will have to settle for the best quarterback he can draft or otherwise acquire. He might even have to give Alex Smith a shot.
The 49ers will need Harbaugh to do what his recent predecessors could not: get good production from limited or flawed talent at the most important position.
Rich Gannon was well-established as an NFL quarterback when Harbaugh arrived as his position coach in Oakland for the 2002 season. The pairing reflected well on all parties. Gannon set career highs for completed passes, attempts, completion percentage, passing yards and passer rating. Gannon was already a good quarterback and the Raiders were already a good team, so it's tough to measure Harbaugh's impact.
Gannon is long since retired. Harbaugh is back in the NFL for the first time since the two were together on the Raiders in 2003. The 49ers don't have a legitimate starting quarterback under contract. Harbaugh has been meeting with Smith and keeping open his options. The stakes are high in the short term because the 49ers have enough talent elsewhere on their roster to compete for a playoff spot.
Outside expectations for Smith are so low that Harbaugh could appear heroic if he could get even a 9-7 record out of the 49ers with Smith in the lineup.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
How much more roster turnover lies ahead?
The Seahawks were fearless in overhauling their roster during their first year under general manager John Schneider and coach Pete Carroll.
The team added Marshawn Lynch, Leon Washington, Chris Clemons, Stacy Andrews, Tyler Polumbus, Kentwan Balmer, Kevin Vickerson, Robert Henderson and LenDale White, though Seattle parted with Vickerson, Henderson, White and 2009 regulars Deion Branch, Julius Jones, Owen Schmitt, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Josh Wilson, Lawrence Jackson, Rob Sims, Darryl Tapp, Deon Grant and Seneca Wallace. The Seahawks watched a couple other starters, Nate Burleson and Cory Redding, leave in free agency.
If those were the moves the Seahawks felt comfortable making right away, I figured there would be quite a few to come after the team's new leadership watched players for a full season. And there still could be, but similar wheeling and dealing could be impractical or even impossible if the current labor standoff continues deep into the offseason.
Teams cannot make trades without a new labor agreement. They cannot know for sure whether or not a salary cap will come into play as part of any new deal. It's just tough to act as decisively as Seattle acted last offseason without knowing the rules. That's a disadvantage for Seattle and other teams with much work to do this offseason.
ARIZONA CARDINALS
What happens to the offensive line?
We've been asking, answering and asking some more questions about the Cardinals' quarterback situation for months. Let's tap a few brain cells to discuss the guys up front.
Center Lyle Sendlein and right guard Deuce Lutui are without contracts for 2011. Left guard Alan Faneca might retire. Right tackle Brandon Keith is coming off hamstring and knee injuries that shortened his first season as a starter. The Cardinals do not have fresh talent in reserve. They have drafted only one offensive lineman in the first four rounds since Ken Whisenhunt became head coach in 2007. Twenty-seven teams have drafted more. As much as the team trusts assistant head coach Russ Grimm to get the most from its offensive line, Arizona could use fresh young talent for him to groom.
The Cardinals went through the 2010 season with the NFL's oldest offensive linemen, counting backups. That wouldn't matter so much if left tackle Levi Brown were meeting the Pro Bowl expectations that came with his status as a top-five overall selection in the 2007 draft. Brown was underwhelming at right tackle to begin his career and a liability at left tackle last season. His salary balloons in 2012, so this could be his last season in Arizona.
ST. LOUIS RAMS
Can the defense take the next step?
The Rams allowed 328 points last season, tied for the third-lowest total since the team moved from Los Angeles for the 1995 season. They allowed seven rushing touchdowns, their lowest total since 1999 and down from 50 combined over the previous two seasons. But with starting defensive linemen James Hall and Fred Robbins turning 34 this offseason, and with questions at linebacker, the Rams' defense will not automatically go from competitive toward dominant.
Hall will be looking to become the 14th player since 1982 (when the NFL began tracking sacks as an official stat) to collect 10 sacks in a season at age 34 or older. The others: Trace Armstrong, Chris Doleman, William Fuller, Kevin Greene, Rickey Jackson, Ed "Too Tall" Jones, Tony McGee, Steve McMichael, John Randle, Warren Sapp, Bruce Smith, Michael Strahan and Reggie White.
Robbins is coming off one of his finest seasons. He joined Keith Traylor, Jeff Zgonina and Ray Agnew among defensive tackles to set career highs for sacks at age 32 or older in the free-agency era (since 1993).
Getting similar production and continued good health from two older players is no given. The Rams also need to find help at outside linebacker after losing 32-year-old Na'il Diggs to a torn pectoral muscle 12 games into the 2010 season. The Rams are set at middle linebacker with James Laurinaitis, but they could stand to upgrade around him.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
How well can Jim Harbaugh coach up a quarterback?
When the 49ers' new coach needed a quarterback at Stanford, he recruited one. Andrew Luck set records and led the Cardinal to national prominence. Recruiting isn't a significant part of the equation in the NFL, so Harbaugh will have to settle for the best quarterback he can draft or otherwise acquire. He might even have to give Alex Smith a shot.
The 49ers will need Harbaugh to do what his recent predecessors could not: get good production from limited or flawed talent at the most important position.
Rich Gannon was well-established as an NFL quarterback when Harbaugh arrived as his position coach in Oakland for the 2002 season. The pairing reflected well on all parties. Gannon set career highs for completed passes, attempts, completion percentage, passing yards and passer rating. Gannon was already a good quarterback and the Raiders were already a good team, so it's tough to measure Harbaugh's impact.
Gannon is long since retired. Harbaugh is back in the NFL for the first time since the two were together on the Raiders in 2003. The 49ers don't have a legitimate starting quarterback under contract. Harbaugh has been meeting with Smith and keeping open his options. The stakes are high in the short term because the 49ers have enough talent elsewhere on their roster to compete for a playoff spot.
Outside expectations for Smith are so low that Harbaugh could appear heroic if he could get even a 9-7 record out of the 49ers with Smith in the lineup.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
How much more roster turnover lies ahead?
The Seahawks were fearless in overhauling their roster during their first year under general manager John Schneider and coach Pete Carroll.
The team added Marshawn Lynch, Leon Washington, Chris Clemons, Stacy Andrews, Tyler Polumbus, Kentwan Balmer, Kevin Vickerson, Robert Henderson and LenDale White, though Seattle parted with Vickerson, Henderson, White and 2009 regulars Deion Branch, Julius Jones, Owen Schmitt, T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Josh Wilson, Lawrence Jackson, Rob Sims, Darryl Tapp, Deon Grant and Seneca Wallace. The Seahawks watched a couple other starters, Nate Burleson and Cory Redding, leave in free agency.
If those were the moves the Seahawks felt comfortable making right away, I figured there would be quite a few to come after the team's new leadership watched players for a full season. And there still could be, but similar wheeling and dealing could be impractical or even impossible if the current labor standoff continues deep into the offseason.
Teams cannot make trades without a new labor agreement. They cannot know for sure whether or not a salary cap will come into play as part of any new deal. It's just tough to act as decisively as Seattle acted last offseason without knowing the rules. That's a disadvantage for Seattle and other teams with much work to do this offseason.
Thank you, Seahawks fan Shane Rego, for pointing me toward Football Outsiders' in-depth look at the 1992 NFL season.
Football Outsiders' statistical analysis has revealed the Seattle Seahawks' infamous, notorious, sulfurous 1992 offense to have been even worse than the San Francisco 49ers' historically, hysterically inept 2005 version. The analysis compares each play during a season with similar plays for every team in the league. The resulting metric, termed Defensive-adjusted Value Over Average (DVOA), generates positive or negative percentages. Negative percentages are bad for offenses and good for defenses.
"The Seahawks' minus-45.9 percent offensive DVOA sets a new FO record, surpassing the 2005 San Francisco 49ers (minus-42.0 percent) as the worst offense we've ever tracked," Football Outsiders reported. "It gets worse if you isolate the passing game from the running game."
The 2005 49ers' pass offense was the worst on record since 1993 at minus-57.9 percent. The 1992 Seahawks' pass offense came in at minus-71.0 percent. The chart breaks down passing stats for the quarterbacks on those teams' rosters. The seven players combined for 17 touchdowns, 44 interceptions and a 41.7 rating.
While justifiably ragging on Seattle's 1992 offense, Football Outsiders acknowledges the strength of its defense, which ranked third in DVOA that season thanks largely to AFC Defensive Player of the Year Cortez Kennedy. I'll have more on Kennedy as Hall of Fame voting approaches. I consider him to have been the best, most complete defensive tackle of the 1990s, when counting Reggie White as a defensive end.
[+] Enlarge
Earl Richardson/Getty ImagesQuarterback Dan McGwire was part of a much-maligned Seattle offense in 1992.
Earl Richardson/Getty ImagesQuarterback Dan McGwire was part of a much-maligned Seattle offense in 1992."The Seahawks' minus-45.9 percent offensive DVOA sets a new FO record, surpassing the 2005 San Francisco 49ers (minus-42.0 percent) as the worst offense we've ever tracked," Football Outsiders reported. "It gets worse if you isolate the passing game from the running game."
The 2005 49ers' pass offense was the worst on record since 1993 at minus-57.9 percent. The 1992 Seahawks' pass offense came in at minus-71.0 percent. The chart breaks down passing stats for the quarterbacks on those teams' rosters. The seven players combined for 17 touchdowns, 44 interceptions and a 41.7 rating.
While justifiably ragging on Seattle's 1992 offense, Football Outsiders acknowledges the strength of its defense, which ranked third in DVOA that season thanks largely to AFC Defensive Player of the Year Cortez Kennedy. I'll have more on Kennedy as Hall of Fame voting approaches. I consider him to have been the best, most complete defensive tackle of the 1990s, when counting Reggie White as a defensive end.
Rams' vets Robbins, Hall getting it done
December, 27, 2010
12/27/10
10:01
AM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
ST. LOUIS -- Fred Robbins' sixth sack of the season Sunday gave the St. Louis Rams' veteran defensive tackle a career high at age 32.
It also highlighted the significant contributions St. Louis is getting from two defensive linemen thought to be past their primes.
Defensive end James Hall, 33, collected 1.5 sacks Sunday, giving him 10.0 for the season.
Hall joins a short list of players to reach double-digit sacks at that age since sacks became an official stat for the 1982 season. The others: Trace Armstrong, Rob Burnett, Richard Dent, Chris Doleman, William Fuller, Kevin Greene, Rickey Jackson, Leslie O'Neal, John Randle, Warren Sapp, Bruce Smith, Michael Strahan, Jason Taylor and Reggie White.
Robbins, signed in free agency from the New York Giants, joins Keith Traylor, Jeff Zgonina and former Ram Ray Agnew among defensive tackles to set career highs for sacks at age 32 or older in the free-agency era (since 1993). The Rams are not particularly deep at defensive tackle. Their defense would have a hard time holding up without Robbins, in my view.
The team needs to draft fresh talent at the position. In the meantime, Robbins is providing the steady play Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo sought when he reconnected with Robbins, a player he coached with the Giants.
Robbins has also set a career high with seven passes defensed.
It also highlighted the significant contributions St. Louis is getting from two defensive linemen thought to be past their primes.
Defensive end James Hall, 33, collected 1.5 sacks Sunday, giving him 10.0 for the season.
Hall joins a short list of players to reach double-digit sacks at that age since sacks became an official stat for the 1982 season. The others: Trace Armstrong, Rob Burnett, Richard Dent, Chris Doleman, William Fuller, Kevin Greene, Rickey Jackson, Leslie O'Neal, John Randle, Warren Sapp, Bruce Smith, Michael Strahan, Jason Taylor and Reggie White.
Robbins, signed in free agency from the New York Giants, joins Keith Traylor, Jeff Zgonina and former Ram Ray Agnew among defensive tackles to set career highs for sacks at age 32 or older in the free-agency era (since 1993). The Rams are not particularly deep at defensive tackle. Their defense would have a hard time holding up without Robbins, in my view.
The team needs to draft fresh talent at the position. In the meantime, Robbins is providing the steady play Rams coach Steve Spagnuolo sought when he reconnected with Robbins, a player he coached with the Giants.
Robbins has also set a career high with seven passes defensed.
An appreciation for the great Walter Jones
April, 29, 2010
4/29/10
11:26
AM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
There is no shame in admitting what is was really like lining up against Walter Jones.
Frustrating. Demoralizing. Humbling.
"I’m embarrassed to say it, but it is the truth," former Pro Bowl pass-rusher Bertrand Berry said Wednesday.
Berry couldn't escape Jones wherever he went. They were contemporaries in college -- Jones at Florida State, Berry at Notre Dame -- before entering the NFL in 1997. Berry played for the Broncos when Seattle and Denver were in the AFC West. Berry played for the Cardinals when Seattle and Arizona were in the NFC West. Berry announced his retirement earlier this offseason. Jones' announcement is coming Thursday.
Jones made dominating appear effortless.
"He was so efficient at what he did and I remember looking up at him during a game and I don’t think he had an ounce of sweat on his body," Berry said. "I’m working my tail off and I’m exhausted and he looks like he’s just getting ready to go play a football game. It was demoralizing. To see a guy so smooth and easy about it, it was frustrating. You’re trying everything and it’s not working and it doesn’t look hard for him."
Seattle coaches counted 23 career sacks allowed. I'd bet most came in obvious passing situations and/or when Jones was playing through shoulder problems that required multiple surgeries (a kidney condition prevented him from taking anti-inflammatory medication). Jones allowed a couple of sacks to the Cowboys' DeMarcus Ware in his final game while playing with what wound up being a career-ending knee injury. When Ware was a heralded rookie in 2005, I remember someone asking Jones about their impending matchup. It was clear from Jones' answer that Ware wasn't yet someone he knew by name. There wasn't anything disrespectful about it, either. It simply didn't matter who Jones went up against from week to week.
"When you say Walter Jones, I think of the best tackle I have played against in my career," Berry said with no disrespect for Orlando Pace, Jonathan Ogden or any of the other Hall of Fame-caliber opponents he faced. "There was nothing he wasn’t good at. He had great feet, he was strong as a bull and also a very smart guy. Walt was one of the stronger guys I ever went against. If he gets those hands on you, you can forget it. He was so physically strong and gifted at the same time, just one of those rare combination guys. Nobody really played the game quite like he did."
Playing offensive tackle in the NFL's most remote market made it tougher for Jones to get the national respect he deserved. Jones always had the respect of opponents, as reflected in the nine Pro Bowl honors he earned. Others didn't always fully understand Jones' greatness. Mike Holmgren was incredulous one time when a television announcer asked during a production meeting whether the Seahawks planned to help their left tackle in protection against a certain accomplished rusher. Jones never needed help. And when he did get beat, reporters covering the team would pay close attention to the following play. Jones would often destroy his man.
Holmgren once called Reggie White the best defensive player he coached and Jones the best on offense, a statement so profound that Holmgren said he heard from some of the other greats he coached. Jones is expected to be available to reporters at the Seahawks' postdraft minicamp Friday. He'll probably be humble as ever.
"He was business-like, never said a word on the field -- very professional," Berry said. "He should be a first-ballot Hall of Famer and I feel privileged to have gone against him."
Note: The Seahawks called to clarify sacks allowed totals. It's 23, not 33. Even more amazing.
Frustrating. Demoralizing. Humbling.
[+] Enlarge
Otto Greule Jr/Getty ImagesWalter Jones was a nine-time Pro Bowl selection.
Otto Greule Jr/Getty ImagesWalter Jones was a nine-time Pro Bowl selection.Berry couldn't escape Jones wherever he went. They were contemporaries in college -- Jones at Florida State, Berry at Notre Dame -- before entering the NFL in 1997. Berry played for the Broncos when Seattle and Denver were in the AFC West. Berry played for the Cardinals when Seattle and Arizona were in the NFC West. Berry announced his retirement earlier this offseason. Jones' announcement is coming Thursday.
Jones made dominating appear effortless.
"He was so efficient at what he did and I remember looking up at him during a game and I don’t think he had an ounce of sweat on his body," Berry said. "I’m working my tail off and I’m exhausted and he looks like he’s just getting ready to go play a football game. It was demoralizing. To see a guy so smooth and easy about it, it was frustrating. You’re trying everything and it’s not working and it doesn’t look hard for him."
Seattle coaches counted 23 career sacks allowed. I'd bet most came in obvious passing situations and/or when Jones was playing through shoulder problems that required multiple surgeries (a kidney condition prevented him from taking anti-inflammatory medication). Jones allowed a couple of sacks to the Cowboys' DeMarcus Ware in his final game while playing with what wound up being a career-ending knee injury. When Ware was a heralded rookie in 2005, I remember someone asking Jones about their impending matchup. It was clear from Jones' answer that Ware wasn't yet someone he knew by name. There wasn't anything disrespectful about it, either. It simply didn't matter who Jones went up against from week to week.
"When you say Walter Jones, I think of the best tackle I have played against in my career," Berry said with no disrespect for Orlando Pace, Jonathan Ogden or any of the other Hall of Fame-caliber opponents he faced. "There was nothing he wasn’t good at. He had great feet, he was strong as a bull and also a very smart guy. Walt was one of the stronger guys I ever went against. If he gets those hands on you, you can forget it. He was so physically strong and gifted at the same time, just one of those rare combination guys. Nobody really played the game quite like he did."
Playing offensive tackle in the NFL's most remote market made it tougher for Jones to get the national respect he deserved. Jones always had the respect of opponents, as reflected in the nine Pro Bowl honors he earned. Others didn't always fully understand Jones' greatness. Mike Holmgren was incredulous one time when a television announcer asked during a production meeting whether the Seahawks planned to help their left tackle in protection against a certain accomplished rusher. Jones never needed help. And when he did get beat, reporters covering the team would pay close attention to the following play. Jones would often destroy his man.
Holmgren once called Reggie White the best defensive player he coached and Jones the best on offense, a statement so profound that Holmgren said he heard from some of the other greats he coached. Jones is expected to be available to reporters at the Seahawks' postdraft minicamp Friday. He'll probably be humble as ever.
"He was business-like, never said a word on the field -- very professional," Berry said. "He should be a first-ballot Hall of Famer and I feel privileged to have gone against him."
Note: The Seahawks called to clarify sacks allowed totals. It's 23, not 33. Even more amazing.
Cardinals linebacker Joey Porter turned 33 Monday amid questions about what he has left to offer an NFL team.
Porter addressed the issue during a recent interview with KTAR radio in Phoenix, with sportsradiointerviews.com providing a transcript.
Porter had 9.0 sacks for the Dolphins last season. Another former Steelers outside linebacker, Kevin Greene, had at least 9.0 sacks in five consecutive seasons after turning 33. Another 3-4 outside linebacker, Hall of Famer Rickey Jackson, did it four times after turning 33. They were among 27 players to accomplish the feat at that age in the sack era, according to Pro Football Reference.
Sacks aren't everything, but the Cardinals would be very happy with multiple 9.0-sack seasons from anyone, Porter included.
Porter addressed the issue during a recent interview with KTAR radio in Phoenix, with sportsradiointerviews.com providing a transcript.
Porter: I'm going to play with a chip on my shoulder for the simple fact that I love to go into a season any time someone doubts me. I’ve got to prove to myself that my game is still where I think it's at. I have no ill feelings towards Miami. ... But the chip on my shoulder now is hearing analysts saying, 'Does he still have it?' So that always gets me motivated and keeps me going."
Porter had 9.0 sacks for the Dolphins last season. Another former Steelers outside linebacker, Kevin Greene, had at least 9.0 sacks in five consecutive seasons after turning 33. Another 3-4 outside linebacker, Hall of Famer Rickey Jackson, did it four times after turning 33. They were among 27 players to accomplish the feat at that age in the sack era, according to Pro Football Reference.
Sacks aren't everything, but the Cardinals would be very happy with multiple 9.0-sack seasons from anyone, Porter included.
Merlin Olsen was a 14-time Pro Bowl choice in 15 NFL seasons, all with the Rams.
OlsenNo one in league history went to more Pro Bowls, and none went to as many in as few seasons.
His passing Wednesday from cancer at age 69 provides an opportunity to appreciate his career and contributions.
I'm making some calls and will have more as the day progresses. In the meantime, here's a chart showing where Olsen fits among players with the most Pro Bowl appearances, courtesy of Pro Football Reference.
His passing Wednesday from cancer at age 69 provides an opportunity to appreciate his career and contributions.
I'm making some calls and will have more as the day progresses. In the meantime, here's a chart showing where Olsen fits among players with the most Pro Bowl appearances, courtesy of Pro Football Reference.
Mailbag: Peppers on NFC West fans' minds
February, 1, 2010
2/01/10
5:04
PM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
DAVIE, Fla. -- The Saints' first media session of Super Bowl week has been pushed back nearly 2 hours from the originally scheduled time.
Rainy weather led the Saints to seek an indoor practice facility. Instead of working out at the University of Miami on Monday afternoon, as previously scheduled, the Saints relocated to the Dolphins' indoor facility. New Orleans will have to practice elsewhere once the Colts arrive because this is where Indianapolis scheduled its practices all week.
It's seemingly possible, then, that the Colts could be the only team able to escape rains this week. We'll learn more from Saints coach Sean Payton, who is scheduled to address reporters at 5:30 p.m. ET. Update: Payton indicated the league had made a plan that could allow both teams use of indoor facilities.
In the meantime, I've dipped into the NFC West mailbag, where a common theme has dominated recent submissions.
Jericho from Tacoma, Wash., writes: Hey Sando, the possibility of a Julius Peppers signing for the Seahawks has just entered my mind. With Paul Allen's money bags, the current abysmal pass rush, and the lack of a CBA for the 2010-2011 season, this makes too much sense to not happen. Thoughts?
Mike Sando: That is the sort of move a team makes to compensate for poor drafting. On the one hand, general manager John Schneider comes from a personnel tree featuring Ted Thompson, Mike Reinfeldt and others who believe in building through the draft and avoiding the big-money deals in free agency. Schneider and new coach Pete Carroll also want to go young. On the other hand, Schneider described himself as more aggressive than Thompson. Schneider also comes from Green Bay, where his first mentor, Ron Wolf, made a bold move for another dominant defensive end, landing Reggie White in one of the most significant moves in NFL history.
Kyle from Tempe, Ariz., writes: It seems pretty evident that 49ers general manager Scot Mcloughan wants to build through the draft. That being said, there could be some serious value in grabbing a guy like Julius Peppers in free agency. I hope they re-sign Aubrayo Franklin, but if they don't, isn't grabbing a solid DE a necessity this offseason?
Mike Sando: Franklin plays the nose and the 49ers can always use their franchise tag on him if need be. They will keep him one way or another. Adding Pepppers would help, but you're right about the 49ers viewing themselves as having grown to a point where they do not have to overpay for need, particularly on defense.
Ryan from Phoenix writes: Hey Mike, tell me what you think of this off-season headline: "Cardinals sign Julius Peppers to boost pass rush." As a life long Cardinals fan, I think it would be pretty sweet to see this happen now that it seems likely he's gonna hit the open market.
Mike Sando: The Cardinals probably are not going to pay some of their own players much. It's tough to envision them making the type of play needed to land Peppers. Calais Campbell and Darnell Dockett are much cheaper, no matter how much it pains Dockett to read this sentence.
Josh from Los Angeles writes: Hey Mike, have you heard anything out of the Rams concerning who they might draft? I know it's kind of early, but any clue as to which way they may be leaning? I personally think they should go with Ndamukong Suh because he is the best defensive tackle prospect since Warren Sapp, but that's me. What are your thoughts and which way do you think they will go?
Mike Sando: I'll be speaking with Billy Devaney and Steve Spagnuolo later in the week. They will not tip their hand this early, most likely, but I tend to think they could be inclined to select Suh as a needed cornerstone up front on defense. The team addressed its offensive line last offseason. The defensive line needs to be a priority now, even though last year's first-rounder, Chris Long, showed significant improvement in 2009. Suh would make a lot of sense for a Spagnuolo-coached team, I think.
Then I could see the Rams trying to find a somewhat reasonably priced veteran quarterback to help get them through the season. That would be based on the idea that there doesn't seem to be an obvious No. 1-type quarterback available this year.
Rainy weather led the Saints to seek an indoor practice facility. Instead of working out at the University of Miami on Monday afternoon, as previously scheduled, the Saints relocated to the Dolphins' indoor facility. New Orleans will have to practice elsewhere once the Colts arrive because this is where Indianapolis scheduled its practices all week.
It's seemingly possible, then, that the Colts could be the only team able to escape rains this week. We'll learn more from Saints coach Sean Payton, who is scheduled to address reporters at 5:30 p.m. ET. Update: Payton indicated the league had made a plan that could allow both teams use of indoor facilities.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Julie JacobsonNFC West fans wonder if Peppers will end up in the division.
AP Photo/Julie JacobsonNFC West fans wonder if Peppers will end up in the division.Jericho from Tacoma, Wash., writes: Hey Sando, the possibility of a Julius Peppers signing for the Seahawks has just entered my mind. With Paul Allen's money bags, the current abysmal pass rush, and the lack of a CBA for the 2010-2011 season, this makes too much sense to not happen. Thoughts?
Mike Sando: That is the sort of move a team makes to compensate for poor drafting. On the one hand, general manager John Schneider comes from a personnel tree featuring Ted Thompson, Mike Reinfeldt and others who believe in building through the draft and avoiding the big-money deals in free agency. Schneider and new coach Pete Carroll also want to go young. On the other hand, Schneider described himself as more aggressive than Thompson. Schneider also comes from Green Bay, where his first mentor, Ron Wolf, made a bold move for another dominant defensive end, landing Reggie White in one of the most significant moves in NFL history.
Kyle from Tempe, Ariz., writes: It seems pretty evident that 49ers general manager Scot Mcloughan wants to build through the draft. That being said, there could be some serious value in grabbing a guy like Julius Peppers in free agency. I hope they re-sign Aubrayo Franklin, but if they don't, isn't grabbing a solid DE a necessity this offseason?
Mike Sando: Franklin plays the nose and the 49ers can always use their franchise tag on him if need be. They will keep him one way or another. Adding Pepppers would help, but you're right about the 49ers viewing themselves as having grown to a point where they do not have to overpay for need, particularly on defense.
Ryan from Phoenix writes: Hey Mike, tell me what you think of this off-season headline: "Cardinals sign Julius Peppers to boost pass rush." As a life long Cardinals fan, I think it would be pretty sweet to see this happen now that it seems likely he's gonna hit the open market.
Mike Sando: The Cardinals probably are not going to pay some of their own players much. It's tough to envision them making the type of play needed to land Peppers. Calais Campbell and Darnell Dockett are much cheaper, no matter how much it pains Dockett to read this sentence.
Josh from Los Angeles writes: Hey Mike, have you heard anything out of the Rams concerning who they might draft? I know it's kind of early, but any clue as to which way they may be leaning? I personally think they should go with Ndamukong Suh because he is the best defensive tackle prospect since Warren Sapp, but that's me. What are your thoughts and which way do you think they will go?
Mike Sando: I'll be speaking with Billy Devaney and Steve Spagnuolo later in the week. They will not tip their hand this early, most likely, but I tend to think they could be inclined to select Suh as a needed cornerstone up front on defense. The team addressed its offensive line last offseason. The defensive line needs to be a priority now, even though last year's first-rounder, Chris Long, showed significant improvement in 2009. Suh would make a lot of sense for a Spagnuolo-coached team, I think.
Then I could see the Rams trying to find a somewhat reasonably priced veteran quarterback to help get them through the season. That would be based on the idea that there doesn't seem to be an obvious No. 1-type quarterback available this year.
GM profiling: Devaney and the defensive tackles
April, 25, 2009
4/25/09
12:45
PM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando
The Rams could stand to strengthen the middle of their defense. Adding free-agent safety James Butler was a start, but the team could use reinforcements in its front seven.
Veteran defensive tackle La'Roi Glover gutted out one final season in 2008 despite an injured knee and the team's dim prospects overall. The Rams need to get younger and stouter at the position, starting with this draft. The team has drafted three defensive tackles in the first three rounds since 2001 -- Claude Wroten, Jimmy Kennedy and Damione Lewis -- but none met expectations in St. Louis.
First-year general manager Billy Devaney, new to the Rams in 2008, can't do much worse. His teams generally have not drafted defensive tackles early. The chart shows every defensive tackle Devaney's teams have selected since he broke into scouting with the Chargers in 1990.
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Expect first-year Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo to influence the Rams' thinking on defensive tackles. Spagnuolo was with the Eagles when Philadelphia used three first-round choices on the position between 2000 and 2006: Corey Simon (2000), Mike Patterson (2005) and Brodrick Bunkley (2006). Spagnuolo was with the Giants in 2007 when they drafted defensive tackle Jay Alford from Penn State in the third round.
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ABOUT THIS BLOG
Mike Sando
Sando joined ESPN.com in 2007 after nine seasons covering the Seattle Seahawks for the Tacoma (Wash.) News Tribune. He lives in the Seattle-Tacoma area with his wife and two sons.
