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).
Send your questions now and join Keith on Friday at noon ET for all the answers.
Buzzmaster (12:00 PM)
Kidder will be here soon!
Keith Kidd (12:03 PM)
Nation, great to be here! We are getting closer and closer to the NFL AND collebe ball and I cannot wait. Also check out our new player rankings and reports on ESPN.com....they are awesome! Let's get rolling!
Travis, Canada
Kidder, I'm not going to be here for your chat today, so good luck without me. I will be golfing with my father in law all day in a tournament for our Canadian armed services support group, my wife's brother is in the Army. Yes, admit it your jealous, enjoy your work day though, I know I will!
Keith Kidd (12:03 PM)
Travis you will do anything to get on my show. But I will give you props because I am in a GREAT mood because we are talking some NFL BALL!!!
ray GORDON reid gulfport MISSISSIPPI 39501
QUESTION TO ESPN/KEITH KIDD AT 12.O5 PM HI KEITH HOW WILL BRETT DO TONIGHT
Keith Kidd (12:04 PM)
You know what, who cares? What Brett needs to do is get back on the field and play and get ready for Week 1 of the regular season when the bullets are LIVE!!!
Pat (miami, fl)
Keith, what are your expectations for the dolphins this season? The receivers aren't looking good and the pass rush is questionable. With Pennington though I think they can get 7-8 wins.
Keith Kidd (12:07 PM)
It will be a long year and this is a rebuilding process. I see this team being more competitive and getting games into the 4th quarter, but I think they won't be able to close them. But we all know the track record of Bill Parcells and great things are on the horizon. And picking up Chad Pennington was a great move!
Nate the Kidd (Waco TX)
Keith, What do you expect from the Giants this season? With the loss of Shockey and Strahan I think there is a big dropoff. This team wasn't very good until the playoffs last year, and seemed to just get hot.
Keith Kidd (12:10 PM)
I disagree. These are the defending champs. The biggest problem is the division, but the defense is loaded and I expect Eli to continue to play at the level he played at the end of last year. I think another issue may be injuries to key players.
Alex Smith San Francisco
Am I going to be on this team this year?
Keith Kidd (12:11 PM)
I think you will be around, but losing out to O'Sullivan would put your future in San Fran in great jeopardy.
Rich (Jax, FL)
Keith - Do you think the Jags can overcome their possible early season depleted WR corps and go at least 3-1?
Keith Kidd (12:13 PM)
Yes, I think they will. This team is built around Fred Taylor and MJD and a very physical O-Line. I can easily see this team being 3-1, but beating Tennessee at home will be very difficult, because Tennessee is very good. The Porter situation will be something to keep an eye on and I am interested to see how Williamson plays in the preseason.
ryan(melrose,ma)
Is Matt Ryan starting on week one for Atlanta?
Keith Kidd (12:14 PM)
Great question. Right now my answer is yes. But Mike Smith needs to be sure he is ready and conifdent enough to do it. So Redman may be a better option in week 1 and we will have to see what Harrington can bring to the table. But I think they have enough good players around Ryan, so I put him out there in week 1.
Lane (Kukuihaele, HI)
Do you think Chris Chambers will have a big year in San Diego?
Keith Kidd (12:16 PM)
Yes I do. I think he has a very good year, but it will depend on Gates' health. If he can get back on the field, it will open up a lot of downfield opportunities for Chambers. And ogh by the way, they looked awesome against Dallas.
Jason (Buffalo, NY)
Hey Keith. Really liked what I saw last night. Can the Bills squeeze in to the playoffs? One thing detractors overlook is their schedule - very easy.
Keith Kidd (12:17 PM)
Hey Jason likewise and the interesting thing is everyone buying into the Jets but do not underestimate the very good young Bills. I can see them right in the Wild Card chase. Jauron did a great job keeping them in it last year with all the injuries.
Steve (Rochester, NY)
I think that by the end of the season that Justin Tuck will be considered the Giants best DE not Osi Umenyiora. Do you agree?
Keith Kidd (12:19 PM)
Great question. I love Justin Tuck. It is going to be interesting how they scheme and if they can keep him inside on nickle situation by bringing in Osi and Matthias on the outside. The G-men D-Line will not miss a beat in getting pressure with the front four.
Lane (Kukuihaele, HI)
Do you think Colt Brennan has what it takes to become a starting QB in the NFL?
Keith Kidd (12:20 PM)
In the right system he does. But a lot of it comes down to supporting cast and his ability to gorwen in Zorn's system. The beauty of it is he does not have to play now. My biggest worry with him is his stature in the pocket, which may be a little overrated. He was great in college...until he met those Georgia Bulldogs!
Steve (Rochester, NY)
I know everyone expects McFadden, Stewart and Mendenhall to all have good rookie years but I'm thinking that LenDale White might lose his starting job to Chris Johnson. How likely is that?
Keith Kidd (12:22 PM)
He was very impressive the other night. He along with Mendenhall and Kevin Smith and McFadden have been all very impressive. I do not think he will overtake White, but it will be very interesting to see how they use him as far as offensive grouping. We all know how Jeff Fisher loves to pound the rock.
Matt (Houston)
Any news on Alex Gibbs' early impact on the Texans oline? Any standouts on their line?
Keith Kidd (12:24 PM)
He would make an impact anywhere. I think on offense this is an explosive unit if Johnson can stay healthy, because I think Schab is a good QB.
Paul (Albany, OR)
I am very concerned about the Rams this season. Their depth is still questionable and even their talent is so-so. Are we looking at a team drafting in the top five again next year?
Keith Kidd (12:27 PM)
Very possibly, and the way the Rams have handled the Jackson thing is embarassing. We saw how bad they were against Tennessee last week. So I do not know where this team is going to find another quality back. And as soon as Jackson comes in, he hopefully is not going to look like Larry Johnson did last year...NOT EFFECTIVE.
Paul
Is Lynch a good signing for the Pats? Can he help them out this year?
Keith Kidd (12:28 PM)
As a situational oplayer only. He is a two-level player who can play the run. And based on his body of work, over his career, he will be a great role model for young players.
Broad Street Brian (philly)
What's going on KK. Let's talks some Rb's. Was last season the best it's going to get for Jamal Lewis? Do you think he starts to decline?
Keith Kidd (12:29 PM)
Based on what I have seen in training camp, not preseason, Cleevalnd has a great offensive line and a very good cast around Anderson, so if he can stay healthy I think he will have a very good year...and he will be one of the keys for the Browns in their quest to win the AFC North.
Eric (Sioux City)
Is Dan Connor agile enough to be a SLB? He, Beason, and Davis could form the best trio in a couple seasons.
Keith Kidd (12:30 PM)
No I see him as a truew Mike LB with value on special teams and possible Beason on the outside. I have not been that impressed with Connor so far, but in fairness, he is a rookie who is learning.
Brad (Gadsden,Alabama)
Will Aaron Rodgers make a good starting QB?
Keith Kidd (12:33 PM)
You know what? I think he will. But I think it will take time. I think he is a very talented guy who is a great fit. But my main concern is durability. What I do not understand is why Green Bay has not got an experienced backup playercaller. You have Brohm or Flynn backing him up, and this is a good team whose season could be in big time trouble if Rodgers cannot stay healthy.
lester(New Orleans)
Why is everyone saying Matt Ryan will be a good pro? I think should of been drafted in the third round.
Keith Kidd (12:34 PM)
I totally disagree. This guy was easily the best QB in the draft. he may have been taken a little high (arent they all?), but the Falcons needed a franchise QB and he will be the guy that either keep everyone employed or gets everyone fired.
Ron (Chicago)
How good do you see Matt Forte being?
Keith Kidd (12:35 PM)
Based on their QB situation he better be lights out this year, because I do not see a lot of playmakers on offense. He will have a lot of chances this year, so we will find out. I liked him coming out of college.
Mark (Boston)
Got to love the guy from Waco, TX trying to diminish the Giants title... that's shocking. Tell him to write back when Romo and T.O. actually win a playoff game. "That's my quarterback man
Majeed
Who gets cut/traded: McCown or Beck?
Keith Kidd (12:36 PM)
Beck. Remember McCown was signed by the people who are there now. He was brought in by Parcells and the new staff.
Will J (Portland, OR)
Keith, any word on how Peyton's doing? I'm surprised this hasn't been a bigger topic of discussion, particularly since he is the heart and soul of the Colts.
Keith Kidd (12:37 PM)
The reason he has not been a big topic, nor anyone else, is because everyone is talking about Brett Favre. That said, I think he is right on schedule to get himself ready for the Week 1 game against Chicago.
Matt, mpls
Kidder, Do you think the league will suspend McKinnie? It's tough to see this happen with all of the steps the Vikings have taken to clean up their program.
Keith Kidd (12:38 PM)
Based on the reports it looks headed that way. Which to me will be a huge loss to their offensive line in their first four games. Again it is just reports. Nothing has been determined.
Anthony (NYC)
Kidder hows it going, with Coach Fox being on the hot seat this year, if the Panthers make the playoffs will that get him off? or does he need for them to get to the NFC championship game?
Keith Kidd (12:39 PM)
I do think he is on the hot seat and I do think the Panthers have to make the playoffs. They have to show signs of heading in the right direction. Everyone is on the hot seat in the NFL if you do not win.
Chris (Broadview Heights, OH)
How short of a leash do you think Matt Leinart will have this year? If you look at the Cardinals schedule, the first 10 weeks (9 games) are about as easy as they come, but those last 7 games are about as brutal as you'll find.
Keith Kidd (12:41 PM)
Very, very short. To me Leinart has been a huge disappointment. With that cast he should be able to put up big numbers. And do not forget how well Kurt Warner played last year.
Mike (San Diego)
Kidder, does "The Chin" come back into the coaching ranks next year? And where?
Keith Kidd (12:42 PM)
Hey Mike he will be rumored for every head coaching job next season. I would anticipate him getting back in if it were about control and a lot of money. He is a great football coach.
Greg (NY)
Fantasy Question: Do you see Larry Fitzgerald's TDs increasing this year? I read he wants to looked for more in the Red Zone.
Keith Kidd (12:44 PM)
I see him having a dominating year. When you have a guy like Boldin on the other side, how can you not? Think of what a great TE would also do in this offense?! The only thing that may keep him from having a great year is the situation at QB.
Franco (Philly)
Keith how many more years do you think McNabb will be in Philly and when can the Kevin Kolb era finally begin?
Keith Kidd (12:44 PM)
Based on where McNabb is in his career, it is year to year. It will come down to performance and health.
Tim (NJ)
With an excellent Oline, Eli's progression, and talented WRs, I see Jacobs having a monster year, if healthy. What are your thoughts on Jacobs and how good he can be? He is a truck!
Keith Kidd (12:45 PM)
I would consider drafting him for my fantasy team. I think he could have a great year. I think their offensive line is very good, and no one is talking about this team, which is scary.
Matt (Grand Rapids)
The Lions are really hyping Kevin Smith. They seem to descibe him as a mix of Barry Sanders, Jim Brown, and Jesus. I'm not buying it. How good do you think Smith will be.
Keith Kidd (12:46 PM)
The reason the Lions are hyping it is because all they have is Tatum Bell. To me Kevin Smith is the feature guy. This team is going to score less without Martz, and it will be a much more run oriented team.
Chris (Wilmington)
I keep hearing about how awesome Peppers is going to be this year, but I'd be more likely to believe it if he could beat Todd Herremans.
Keith Kidd (12:47 PM)
Do not worry about him. It is a contract year and he will have a great year. He also has a lot to prove based on the way he played last season.
Nate (Houston)
Was the top of the 2005 draft class the worst ever? Here is your top 10: Alex Smith, Ronnie Brown, Braylon Edwards, Cedric Benson, Cadillac Williams, Pac Man Jones, Troy Williamson, Antrel Rolle, Carlos Rogers, Mike Williams.
Keith Kidd (12:48 PM)
Only time will tell...but in reality the only guys not in the league right now is Benson and Williams.
Steve (Rochester, NY)
The focus is on McFadden but I'm pretty excited about Michael Bush too. What do you think of him?
Keith Kidd (12:50 PM)
He has looked pretty good in preseason, but he needs to run with a lower pad level, otherwise he will take a huge pounding in this league. Bush will be a good short-yardage back. This team is loaded with running back talent, when you also consider they have Justin Fargas.
George (Sac, Ca)
Do the 49ers have one of the best linebacker corps in all of football now that they've added Takeo Spikes? Him, Willis, and a healthy Lawson coming off the edge should be intimidating to say the least.
Keith Kidd (12:53 PM)
We did not think to highly of them in our positional rankings, although we may have had them a little low in the Scouts Inc. rankings. But I am not concerned about this teams defense. Willis is a great player and I expect big things out of Lawson and Spikes should make them better pros. But I do not know where this team is going to score points.
Andy (Ann Arbor, MI)
Is Shaun Alexander done or do you think he will sign with a team this season?
Keith Kidd (12:54 PM)
I do think he will end up somewhere. He is probably at the top of many short lists. And with that said, it only takes a couple of major injuries to get him in the mix with someone. It just depends if he is willing to play at the price that teams offer him right now.
Steve (Rochester, NY)
Who will blink first in the Jason Peters/Bills showdown? They need him back asap.
Keith Kidd (12:55 PM)
The Jason Peters and Steven Jackson hold outs are both disappointng, but at this stage the organizations, it looks like, will have to blink first. And look at Derrick Harvey in Jacksonville...are you kidding me?
Steven (Hoboken)
Here's a story no one seems to be talking about. Denver moved Pittman to fullback, Torain gets hurt, and Denver leaves Pittman at fullback. Now, Selvin Young is only being backed up by Andre Hall. Selvin Young is Shanahan's clear cut #1 - fantasy gold, right?
Keith Kidd (12:56 PM)
Go ahead, make sure you take him with the first pick in the draft.
Lane (Kukuihaele, HI)
Would an NFL franchise be successful if it operated in Canada? How about Mexico?
Keith Kidd (12:57 PM)
Hey man, great question. As hot as the NFl is, I think it would be successful anywhere. It is clearly the number one sport in America. Now you better watch out for some of soccer teams overseas.
Matt (Grand Rapids)
The Lions keep saying they only want high character guys and got rid of players like Shaun Rogers, James Hall, Dre Bly. Then they use their first two draft picks on a player who was arrested in a bar fight and ordered to pay the victim over $50,000 in medical bills and a player who got a DUI a week before the draft. That doesn't make sense to me. Is that the "high character" they want? Do they have any idea what they are doing?
Keith Kidd (12:59 PM)
Het Matt, go to the Lions website, look up Matt Millen and see what his record is in Detroit since becoming the GM...that is all you ahve to do. If they want to win it is all up to Marinelli and his staff.
Eric (Sioux City)
Thats like Marv Lewis preaching about character and then drafting Shirley and trying to resign Henry.
Keith Kidd (1:02 PM)
Hey it is always fun chatting with the Nation. I cannot wait for the regular season when the show starts picking up and people are throwing some shots. Everyone have a great and safe weekend!
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