Chat with Scouts Inc.'s Keith Kidd
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Kidd spent 14 years in NFL front offices before joining Scouts Inc., including eight years with the Arizona Cardinals, three as the director of pro personnel for the Cleveland Browns and three as the assistant director of pro scouting for the New England Patriots, where he was a part of two Super Bowl championship teams (2003 and 2004).
Kidd graduated from Eastern Kentucky University, where his father, Roy, a distinguished member of the College Football Hall of Fame (315 career wins), coached for 39 seasons. Kidd and his wife, Laura, have one son, Kody.
Send your questions now and join Keith right here on Friday at 4 p.m. ET for all the answers.
Buzzmaster (4:00 PM)
We're getting Kidder right now!
Keith Kidd (4:01 PM)
It's Football Friday! It's the Kidder filling in for the Greener, who set the all-time chat record yesterday and still has his fingers in ice.
Keith Kidd (4:02 PM)
Let's talk some ball!
Mad Mike (Houston)
Hey, everyone......it's Football Friday! Let's welcome our guest host Keith Kidd to "Green Nation"! Send in your play-off questions or what changes your team needs to make to challenge next year or anything that may interest Keith, Cause that how we ROLL! Take it away, Kidder! MM
Keith Kidd (4:02 PM)
Nice Mad Mike.
Brian (Detroit)
Love the chats. Nobody in the Detroit media seems to know anything about Joe Barry aside from the fact that he is Marinelli's son-in-law. Was this a good hire? Thanks!
Keith Kidd (4:03 PM)
Yes, very good hire. There have been teams over the past three years that have tried to get him, but the Bucs have blocked him from leaving. He is a great fit, based on his great understanding of the Bucs Cover 2 philosophies that will play to the strength of Marinelli and the Lions. He's a heckuva great coach.
Jeff (South Beach)
Keith - if you where Wayne Huzienga, who would you hire as GM (Head of Personnel) and who as Coach of the Miami Dolphins? Then with your #1 pick, does Miami have a shot at QB's Brady Quinn or Jemarcus Russel? Miami needs a QB to build around, since Marino left it's been pathetic.
Keith Kidd (4:05 PM)
He has a very good GM in place, however, no one really knows about him since he's been in Miami because of the dictator Nick Saban and the way he ruled the ship. There are a lot of quality assistant coaches out there - Ken Whisenhunt, Ron Rivera and Rex Ryan. With that thought in mind, I think you'll see ownership try to work that coordinator route based on the disappointments that have come through the college ranks over the last few years.
Pete (Akron, Ohio)
Is Sean Jones the most underrated Safety in the NFL?
Keith Kidd (4:06 PM)
Yes he is based on the way I saw him play this year. I think he's a great building block for that defense in Cleveland.
Jeff (Cleveland)
JG told us to warn you to not to get used to his 4:00 Friday timeslot.
Paul (Augusta)
Keith Your thoughts on the Falcons vacancy? None of these assistants being mentioned as candidates are getting me excited.
Keith Kidd (4:08 PM)
I would have kept the coach they had, personally. However, they didn't do that. You can bet the house that whoever gets that job is an offensive guy to get Vick turned around.
Dan - San Jose
Next Defensive Coordinator for the 49ers? Donnie Henderson? Dom Capers? Jim Mora??? Who's your favorite, and what would each bring to the table?
Keith Kidd (4:08 PM)
Jim Bates, former defensive coordinator at Green Bay would be a great hire here. Definitely a guy the Dolphins should consider bringing back.
Scott (Raleigh, NC)
Thanks Keith for filling in. How bad a state did Saban leave the Dolphins in? What kind of QB do you think Culpepper can be after his injury? Should the Dolphins consider taking a QB with the 9th pick?
Keith Kidd (4:09 PM)
It's worse than when he got it, based on the personnel, salary cap, and the organizational as a whole. He should have never pushed Rick Spielman out the door.
Brad(Louisiana)
Has JaMarcus Russell passed Brady Quinn up for next years draft?
Keith Kidd (4:10 PM)
Based on what I saw during the Sugar Bowl, absolutely! If he comes out. He reminds me of a faster, more explosive Culpepper when he came out, with a bigger arm.
Dan (Ottawa, ON)
Keith: in terms of player evaluation and drafting the right players to fit a team's systems, how much does it hurt to have a new head coach? How might this impact the Steelers this year with Cowher's departure? THANKS.
Keith Kidd (4:12 PM)
It's so critical in the hiring process that the head coach and VP of player personnel are on the same page. To win in this league, you have to be on the same page. You just have to look up to the Northeast to see the success that Bill Belichick and Scott Pioli have had with the Patriots.
Jeff (Cleveland)
How fast will Floyd Reese get snatched off the market? Ditto for Cowher?
Keith Kidd (4:13 PM)
To me, Floyd Reese shouldn't have a hard time finding a job. He's been one of the better GM's in the NFL for a number of years.
Mark (Buffalo)
Keith, can you ask Mad Mike if i can get a job where he works? I want to chat all day too!
Rich (Hoboken)
Hey Keith. Do you think the Saints will suprise everyone for a few more games?
Keith Kidd (4:15 PM)
It will depend on the match ups. The one thing the people are missing on the Saints is that they are a darn good football team on offense. If their defense holds up, this team could easily backdoor into the Super Bowl. The NFC is wide open. The Eagles are reminding me a lot of last year's Steelers - getting hot at the right time.
Burr (NJ)
When Cowher come back to coaching next year or the following year, do you see him back in the NFL or college football?
Keith Kidd (4:16 PM)
I see him back in the NFL. I'm the first to start the speculation - Cleveland Browns. Wouldn't that send chills to all the Steelers fans? This guy would demand total control and he would get it.
Matt(Marietta, PA)
Keith, what will the Patriots do with all that Cap space this off season? Is Corey Dillon done?
Keith Kidd (4:17 PM)
They'll do it like every offseason - they'll spend it wisely. They won't over spend. As long as they have Brady, they can get away with it. The No. 1 thing will be WR. They have got to improve their WR in the offseason. As for Dillon, I would be surprised to see him back in New England next year.
Memo (monterey park ca)
Is Rob Ryan the next Raiders coach?
Keith Kidd (4:18 PM)
Obviously, he'll have a great shot at it. Players love playing for him and they respect him. This organization, whoever they hire, has got to make a committment to the head coach more than one or two years.
Hende (OH)
How bad is Braylon Edwards' attitude? Bad enough that Cleveland might draft Calvin Johnson and yet again ignore their OL? Joe Thomas should be the pick, right?
Keith Kidd (4:19 PM)
I don't think it's attitude, I think it's more immaturity more than anything. This kid just has to grow up and learn to be a pro. To me, Joe Thomas makes a lot more sense than Calvin Johnson. The Browns need to get help on the OL.
Keith Kidd (4:19 PM)
This team made a critical mistake last offseason in signing LT Kevin Shaffer.
Ben (Baton Rouge, LA)
The Bears would have a better chance against Seattle as opposed to Dallas right? I'm assuming the Giants will lose to Philly.
Keith Kidd (4:20 PM)
It doesn't matter who they play, because it will all come down to how Rex Grossman plays. He has GOT, GOT to play well. He can't lose you games.
Mike (MICHIGAN)
Please don't make a joke about this...but honestly.....WHAT IS THE DEAL WITH MILLEN. When will he EVER be gone..and what needs to happen. THIS SUCKS...but I won't become a Bears fan!
Keith Kidd (4:21 PM)
You know what, that's a great question. But only Mr. Ford knows the answer. The problem is that all the great Lions fans have to suffer. But if you're looking for a new team, maybe you should look outside the NFC North.
Gina (SF)
I've heard Mike Singletary's name a lot for the coaching vacancies, but he's never been a coordinator. Do you think he'll get one of the head coaching jobs?
Keith Kidd (4:23 PM)
I do think Mike Singletary will eventually be a head coach. He's an outstanding leader and he just brings a tremendous amount of presence and leadership skills. However, not being a coordinator will make ownerships groups concerned. But eventually, he'll get one.
Jeff (Cleveland)
If, and that's a big if, the Ravens let Adalius Thomas hit the FA market, is the first guy on his cell Phil Savage?
Keith Kidd (4:24 PM)
I think the Ravens will try all they can to sign him. If he hits the market, I would look to San Francisco, along with Cleveland, to be the teams to be concerned about signing him. If you get a chance, be sure to watch the Ravens and how Rex Ryan uses him on defense.
Karen (RI)
Hi, Keith. How do you see the Patriots/Jets game? I think the Patriots are in for a tougher battle than many folks are saying. The Jets are very good. Thanks.
Keith Kidd (4:26 PM)
I agree. First of all, this is a great match up on Sunday, based on the hatred in this rivalry. However, the Patriots are just too strong at home with Tom Brady. The keys in this game are the Jets are going to have to pressure Brady and Pennington is going to have to play another great game.
Keith (Phoenix, Az)
Do you know who might succeed Denny Green for the Cardinals. Or, if you haven't heard anything, who do you think would be a good fit with the team and organization they have??
Keith Kidd (4:27 PM)
Probably Norm Chow would be the leading candidate, based on his previous relationship with Matt Leinart. This is a critical, critical hiring for both Rod Graves and the Bidwell family.
Gotti Charlotte N.C.
Come on...give us some insight on Rob Ryan, how does he compare with Rex? you think he is HC material right now?...Belichik likes him??
Keith Kidd (4:28 PM)
I've worked with both guys and both would be outstanding head coaches. They'll both get their opportunity in this league.
Keith Kidd (4:28 PM)
Someone just needs to give it to them.
Paul (Augusta)
Keith You would have kept the guy that kisses Vick on the helmet in the tunnel before a home game? The same guy that is doing smelling salt with his players on the sideline before a game? Jim Mora is a life coach, these guys need a babysitter.
Keith Kidd (4:29 PM)
I would. I think he's a good young coach. Remember, he had no head coaching experience. It's the GM's job to help him develop. I think the biggest issue was the offense and getting Vick to fit his system.
Ron Sunrise, Fl
Now Nick Saban is blaming the front office for his failures. Can you believe this guy? He takes no personal responsibility. You ought to investigate the way he left Michigan State, and LSU. There's a pattern here. His receiving a long term contract is a seminal event in college football history. He shouldn't be allowed to lie his way to the top and then be rewarded for it.
Keith Kidd (4:30 PM)
This doesn't surprise me at all. What a shock, Nick blaming someone else other than himself. Nick belongs in the college game and the best of luck to him.
mike,ny
why did cowher leave? money, buned out? it stinks he left!!
Keith Kidd (4:31 PM)
I don't think anyone realizes how difficult and how tough job it is to work in the NFL. It's an absolute grind. I think he takes a year off, refreshes himself and then he can have any job he wants in the NFL.
Memo (monterey park ca)
But Al Davis only hires offensive minded coaches
Keith Kidd (4:32 PM)
I agree, but it just leads to speculation that Mark Trestman is in there interviewing for the OC job, supposedly. That makes you believe that Rob will have a shot at this. It's a process. It won't happen today or tomorrow.
Drew , Jackson , NJ
Keith......Who do you think gets the Steelers Head coaching job?
Keith Kidd (4:32 PM)
I think they'll keep it in house between either Whisenhunt or Grimm.
Zach (Mpls, MN)
Childress is getting a bit of heat up here in MN. We understand that he isn't going to get fired any time soon, but too much this season he seemed like he was in over his head (too close minded to other opinions, didn't take alot of blame for mistakes on the field, lacked a lot of creativity, rash personnel moves, etc.). Do you think he will bring in other people or start trusting some of his own for gameplan and personnel desicions?
Keith Kidd (4:33 PM)
He brought this all on himself. He has total control and from what I understand, he is the guy with the final decision. However, he has a great personnel guy in Rick Spielman who will do a great job on the personnel department. But they have to get on the same page as an organization.
Steve (Austin, TX)
Where do you think Simeon Rice will end up? Will the Bucs be able to trade him, or will teams wait and see if he gets cut?
Keith Kidd (4:34 PM)
I think he'll be a cap casualty. They'll try to move him, but I don't think anyone will take him due to his contract. A possibility of where he could end up could be Detroit where he could reunite with his former coach Rod Marinelli.
Goose (Chicago)
At what point do Atlanta fans realize that the reason they don't win isn't the head coach, it is the lack of passing game and bad attitude of Mr. Vick?
Keith Kidd (4:36 PM)
This is what leads you to believe that it will be an offensive guy to get the job, because the OC and head coach will have the job of getting Vick to perform well in the pocket. Vick is still relatively young and he still has an upside. But this team has underachieved and that's why they have a new coach coming in.
Jim Green Bay
What are your thoughts on Brett Favre and the current state of the Packers? THANKS
Keith Kidd (4:37 PM)
I want Favre back. I think he's still playing at a very high level. I don't know if this team is prepared well enough if he retires. As for the Pack, they exceeded my expectations. I thought Mike McCartney did a nice job. However, they need to continue to get better in the offseason.
Majeed
Does Spielman know a dirty secret about you? How can you possibly call him "great" when he made the worst trades in history when he was with Miami. 2nd for Feeley, two #1's for Ricky, traded away Ogunleye, etcccc!!!
Keith Kidd (4:37 PM)
Easy, now. We all make mistakes in this business.
Keith Kidd (4:37 PM)
Maybe I was a little more excited, but he's still pretty good at what he does. Feel better?
Trigger (Notus ID)
Is Pat Hills name still comming up as a possible coach for the Raiders? Expecially now after the season Fresno had?
Keith Kidd (4:39 PM)
I haven't heard that one, but that's a good idea based on his experience and success he's had at Fresno State.
Kevin, Boston
Best QB performance this weekend?
Keith Kidd (4:39 PM)
I kind of like Matt Hasselbeck against the Dallas secondary.
Katelyn (Syracuse, NY)
Who should Buffalo look at with the 12th pick in the draft?
Keith Kidd (4:40 PM)
Buffalo needs a defensive lineman. Quinn Titcock, DT from OSU. Omobi Okoye, DT from Louisville. Or they could go with a corner like Laron Landry from LSU.
Jared (NJ)
How good can Lee Evans be? I think he's more deserving than Andre Johnson for that 4th WR spot on the Pro Bowl Roster with over 100+ yards more receiving and 3 more Td's!
Keith Kidd (4:41 PM)
I think he can be a legit No. 1. With his explosive speed that can stretch and get down field, putting a lot of pressure on the back end.
Mark (NC)
Why did Carolina perform so poorly this year and how do you fix it?
Keith Kidd (4:43 PM)
Without a doubt, the most underachieving football team in the league. A lot of it circled around the lack of consistency out of Delhomme, the injuries. I think this team needs to get a big running back, similar to what Stephen Davis was a few years back. LB is going to be a big area to address along with safety.
Bryan (Syracuse, NY)
Thanks Katelyn...apparently you have to be a female to get buffalo questions posted. (just kidding keith) At least buffalo is getting some time
Paul (NY)
If Coughlin stays is Dom Capers the next defensive coordinator for the Giants?
Keith Kidd (4:44 PM)
Great call. Very strong possibility. However, I don't see Coughlin sticking around, unless he can get this team deep, deep, deep into the playoffs.
GARY-NEW BRUNSWICK NJ
KEITH, I HAVE JUST STARTED READING YOUR COLUMNS REALLY ENJOY,MY QUESTION I AM A LIFELONG JETS FAN DO YOU THINK THAT THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT FOR THE JETS? WHAT POSITIONS DO YOU FEEL THEY NEED TO STRENGTHEN IN THE APRIL DRAFT? GO JETS!!!
Keith Kidd (4:45 PM)
Thanks Gary. Keep reading. I think the future is very bright with Eric Mangini. I've said this from the get-go, this was a great hire. I think this team needs to address the RB position along with continuing to improve the defense. There is a huge transition for teams that implement the 3-4.
Jarric (Kansas)
I've heard a lot of analysts tell Lions fans not to go to the games. Thats what you can do to get Millen out of there. How many times do you guys need to be told?
Doug (NY)
Hey Keith, Have you ever seen anyone with better raw tools than JaMarcus Russell? Yes, he may be lacking in some of the intangibles that make a great QB, but wow!
Keith Kidd (4:48 PM)
I was starstruck in watching him against Notre Dame last night. I'm not so sure, based on what I saw, that LSU shouldn't be playing Ohio State on Monday night. But then again Notre Dame had no business being there. This kid is good.
norman (dallas)
What do you think about the possibility of Jeff Fisher or Bill Cowher coaching the Cowboys? Seems that Parcells always has one foot inside the door and one out of it since he's been here and it hurts the team. I think we need someone younger with some fire and engergy.
Keith Kidd (4:49 PM)
I don't see anything happening this year, because both are still under contract. The thing about Cowher is that when he decides to come back out next year to coach, it will be interesting to see if anyone has to pay compensation to get him. I would also expect Fisher to sign an extension.
Rich (Mission Hills)
Man Law: No more answering questions by people who use all capital letters!!
Keith Kidd (4:50 PM)
Got it. Sorry. I don't want to break any rules during the Green Nation. JG didn't tell me there were any hidden rules!
John locke (pittsburgh)
Who are the best fanasty players for the playoffs?
Keith Kidd (4:50 PM)
LT and definitely Larry Johnson.
P. Stone (Columbus, OH)
Keith, I know Buckeye fans don't want to hear it, but do you think since there hasn't been much heard about Romeo Crennel's future in Cleveland is because the Browns are waiting until Jan. 9th the at least gauge Jim Tressel's interest? Remember, he is a Clevelander and that means everything to that city.
Keith Kidd (4:51 PM)
I've heard where Tressel might be interested down the line, but from Romeo replacing four coaches, I think the indication is that he'll be back next year. They just can't keep firing coaches up there. It takes time. But they do need to get the QB situation taken care of.
James (Milwaukee)
Keith, whats your prediction on if Farve will be sticking around for another season?
Keith Kidd (4:53 PM)
I hope so, but it's 50-50 at best. For some reason, I think he's coming back, though. But if not, he has to let the team know earlier than last year.
david (seattle)
any chance you are staying to break JG record....?????
Keith Kidd (4:54 PM)
Ahhhhhhhhh. No. That record could live for centuries. Thanks though. JG's fingers are still icing down.
Mad Mike (Houston)
Kidder: Will Mike Sherman still be on Kubiak's staff next season or is he an HC next year? Thanks, MM
Keith Kidd (4:55 PM)
I think Mike Sherman's had his time in the league. I would be surprised if he does get an HC job again. I think he'll be back with Kubiak next year. The only job I've heard him mentioned with is Arizona.
Jim (Madison)
Keith, who do you think will be the #1 pick for the raiders? Also what pick do you see Joe Thomas at?
Keith Kidd (4:55 PM)
Either Brady Quinn or if Russell comes out. They don't have a QB in Oakland. As for Thomas, he's easily a top 5 pick.
Dolph (mclean, virginia)
Theres a crazy rumor flying around that involves the Skins and Lions. The trade states that we give up portis, out 6th overall pick and a 6th rounder for their 2nd overall dre bly, and a 3rd rounder. Have you heard anything about this? This was heard on the radio around DC by a lot of people.
Keith Kidd (4:57 PM)
It's way too early for those kind of discussions. There are still a lot of things to be done in the new year which starts with free agency. It'll be interesting to see how other teams consider to use the point system to determine how they make trades in the offseason.
Charlie (Cedar Falls)
Which College coaches names are hot to fill the NFL Voids?
Keith Kidd (4:58 PM)
Based on the failure of some past college coaches that have entered the league and left, I don't see ownership groups being aggressive to college coaches. I've heard that Chan Gailey will interview with the Miami Dolphins. The NFL is a totally different feel compared to the college life.
Travis, Canada
Kidder, where do us fans get one of those so-called trade/draft value charts and or the wonderlik test?
Keith Kidd (5:00 PM)
Travis, first you have to get a job in the NFL. Each team has it, but it comes with a huge price. You won't find it on eBay.
Joe (AZ via Chicago)
KK, buzzer beater - If Grossman stinks it up in the postseason, do the Bears look to replace him? His deal is up after next season. (Leftwich??) Thanks for filling in on the Green Nation!
Keith Kidd (5:01 PM)
Absolutely. I don't think there's any doubt that they'll look to do something with the QB position. They'll open up the QB position. I think they have QB issues already.
Keith Kidd (5:02 PM)
It's been a fast and furious hour. I've had the honor and privilege of filling on Football Friday. Best of luck to your teams and have a great and safe weekend. - Kidder.
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