Chat with Pat Yasinskas
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Yasinskas joined ESPN.com in January 2008 after covering the Carolina Panthers for The Charlotte Observer for nine seasons. He began his journalism career with The Tampa Tribune in 1990 and began covering the Buccaneers and the NFL in 1993. A winner of Florida Sports Writers Awards for Best Feature and Best News story in 1997, he is a graduate of Saint Leo University and attended law school before coming to his senses. A native of Dalton, Pa., Yasinskas lives in the Tampa area.
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Yasinskas Archive: Blog | Columns
Donovan Barber Charlotte Nc
How do u c the julius Peppers situation playing out in Carolina? Ofcourse Franchise tag him but trade him where for who?
Pat Yasinskas (1:03 PM)
Yes, they'll franchise him and trade him. It's really the only alternative. Not sure where he'll end up, but I think the Panthers can look for a package similar to what the Chiefs got for Jared Allen last year.
Matthew (Alliance, OH)
What do you think the Buccaneers will do in free agency?
Pat Yasinskas (1:04 PM)
Re-sign Bryant. Get another WR. Maybe Houshmanzadeh. A DT and maybe a QB. Or maybe QB comes in draft.
Patrick, Atlanta
Any more word on Jamal Anderson? Are they really going to try to move him to DT, or are they going to cut bait?
Pat Yasinskas (1:05 PM)
I think the DT talk might be wishful thinking from fans. Think he'll come to camp one more time and compete with Chauncey Davis. I think they'll try to light a fire under Anderson one last time.
Jason Hancock Charlotte NC
Is there any news on Jordan Gross and Carolina?
Pat Yasinskas (1:06 PM)
Pretty quiet. But I think they'll get something done with him.
Sean H (Binghamton, NY)
What Qb's are out there would be a good fit for Tampa? please tell me Greise is on his way out
Pat Yasinskas (1:07 PM)
There's not much in free agency because Cassel is tagged and Warner probably will stay with Cards. Someone like Rex Grossman, maybe. Know that's not to exciting, but there's not much else.
Eric (Nashville, TN)
It seems like fans from nearly every NFL team are clamoring for their team to make a run at Julius Peppers, yet I haven't heard any rumors about anyone actually planning to go after him. Do you think teams are leery of paying such a steep price for a guy who all but disappeared last year, or is it just too early for such rumors to fly?
Pat Yasinskas (1:08 PM)
Hey, I'd be real hesitant to pay huge money to a guy who's been a malcontent and underachieved at times. Terrific talent, yes. But he's a gamble.
John Charlotte nc
Pat can the panthers get more for peppers then what the Chiefs got for Jared Allen last year considering that Jared Allen had off the field issue and peppers does not
Pat Yasinskas (1:09 PM)
Wouldn't got that far. As I said in last answer, I think there are concerns about Pep's attitude and motivation.
Garry(Charlotte)
So Pat you are pretty much saying that Jordan Gross will have a new long term contract with the Panthers before or the day of Feb 19.
Pat Yasinskas (1:10 PM)
That's just my guess. And I think the date is Feb. 27 for the start of free agency. If they're going to tag Gross, then it's Feb. 19. But I think the tag goes to Pep.
John (North Carolina)
Is there any indication that the Saints would restructure Deuce's contract to make cap room rather than release him?
Pat Yasinskas (1:11 PM)
Doubt it. Why keep him around? Last year showed they're not going to use him.
Greg (Cleveland)
Pat, the way I see it, there's less salary cap room for all four NFC South teams than on initial inspection. Carolina already ponied up for Gamble and still needs to hit Gross, TB would be devastated if they don't resign Bryant, and if NO loses both a pick AND Vilma, they're in trouble. Plus, my Falcons should avoid the distraction and give Roddy what he's earned and settle in for the FA period and draft. CUTS are what will determine cap room in the end, I think.
Pat Yasinskas (1:12 PM)
Good points. I think Falcons will sign Roddy to extension at some point. Their concern now is locking up their own players. Think their emphasis in FA will be on mid-level guys.
Eddie (Charleston, SC)
How do you think Ron Meeks hiring will change the way the Panthers play defense?
Pat Yasinskas (1:12 PM)
Not very much. Fox still runs the show.
Tom (SC)
What will the Saints do at receiver this off season? Will they try to keep Moore and Henderson, or do they think enough of Meachem and possibly Arrington?
Pat Yasinskas (1:13 PM)
Definitely keep Moore. Meachem started to show a little and Arrington had a nice camp before he got hurt. Factor a healthy Colston in there and that's a strong bunch of WRs.
Dave (Pittsburgh)
Why would anyone spend serious money on Peppers? He's 31, an underachiever, wants to move to a 3-4, even though that won't increase his stats, and he'll want to be signed to at least a 4 year deal, guaranteeing that his production will drop off.
Pat Yasinskas (1:15 PM)
Actually, I think Pep is only like 28. But your other points are valid.
Brian (Michigan)
Galloway, Barber, Brooks and Dunn sticking around for another year?
Pat Yasinskas (1:15 PM)
My guess is Galloway's gone. Brooks and Barber stay. Flip a coin on Dunn.
Mark (Orlando)
Pat, do you think the coordinators put in place by Raheem Morris will improve the offense, and maybe give the defense a new look that could help them?
Pat Yasinskas (1:16 PM)
Interesting question since I just put up a blog post ranking the NFC South staffs. I ranked the Bucs No. 4. But I like Bates and Jagodzinski and think that ranking could change.
thomas charlotte
pat do you think julus will go to the jets and play with his old partner kris jenkins. or do you think he is iffy seeing they have no quaterback
Pat Yasinskas (1:17 PM)
That's one to keep an eye on.
Chris Monroe NC
Pep just turned 29
Pat Yasinskas (1:17 PM)
Thanks.
Rick (Shreveport, LA)
Are the Saints really banking on Dan Morgan returning and making a contribution in 2009?
Pat Yasinskas (1:17 PM)
Not sure that they're banking on it. But if he can stay healthy, it would be a big bonus. The guy's a great player -- when he can play.
Robert (Charleston, SC)
Any chance with Boldin "looking to get out" of AZ that the Panthers could go after him now that pep is going to be traded for sure and freeing up some money.
Pat Yasinskas (1:19 PM)
Nah, they've got too much money already tied up at WR and have other needs. Could see Tampa Bay being a player for Boldin.
Mike (Conroe, Texas)
I guess I'll give a condensed version of my last question since it never made it through ha. Rumor has it the Saints are pretty high on Laurinitus from Ohio State. Do you think LB is really the pick we go for in the first round? I think we could find a decent outside linebacker in free agency and also give Dan Morgan a chance if he is in good shape. I also feel a true CB or FS could really help the defense seeing as we give up the big play... What position do you see us going for in the draft?
Pat Yasinskas (1:20 PM)
I've heard the Laurinitis stuff. It could be true. I could see it happening. They can get a safety later in the draft or in free agency.
Robert (Charleston, SC
Pats the only the WR that panthers have tied up is Mooose and he will only make 3Mill next year
Pat Yasinskas (1:21 PM)
They're paying Smith a lot of money.
Bryan (Charleston, SC)
Could the panthers recieve first round compensation for peppers this year so we can have our first round pick back?
Pat Yasinskas (1:22 PM)
They'd have to trade him to get a first-round pick this year.
Jeff (Clearwater, FL)
hey Pat you said you could see the Bucs making a play for boldin, if they resign bryant and made the play for boldin would that make them a top reciever duo??
Pat Yasinskas (1:22 PM)
Yes, absolutely.
Anf (Gboro, NC)
But Smith does not even make as much as the other AZ reciever
Pat Yasinskas (1:24 PM)
You're looking at very limited cap space once things sort out. I don't think WR is as big a need as they're going to have at DE. Can't see Fox and Hurney going nuts on a WR when they don't even throw the ball that much.
Chris Monroe NC
I think what what Pat is trying to say is that we have Steve Smith. if we were to go after Boldin and get him, he would cause the same problem he did in Arizona because he want s to be no. 1 receiver.
Pat Yasinskas (1:24 PM)
More or less. Basically, the Panthers don't need him. At least not as much as they need help at other spots.
Ryan Charlotte nc
Pat Smithy is worth all the money that that the panthers are paying him.Without smithy the panthers are just anther 2-14 team
Pat Yasinskas (1:25 PM)
No argument here.
David (Austin)
**Pat, love the stuff!! What's the prevailing thought regarding the Falcons from other teams around the league. Are they a one hit wonder or on the up and up? Do other teams view the Falcons as perennial contenders with Ryan at the helm? What do you hear?
Pat Yasinskas (1:26 PM)
They're set up well with a nice young core. Yeah, they've got to do some housecleaning -- Brooking and Milloy. But another offseason will allow Dimitroff to really get that roster set up.
Matt (Fayetteville nc
Pat please tell me that Panthers will Cut Ken Lucas .
Pat Yasinskas (1:26 PM)
I think that will be coming in the next couple weeks.
Tom (SC)
Gregg Williams and the teams that he's been on have had a very good track record with defensive draft picks, including Sean Taylor and Laron Landry. Do you think the trend will continue with the Saints?
Pat Yasinskas (1:27 PM)
Yes, I think their whole draft will be geared toward defense.
Eugene, OR
Is there any talk about Favre going to Tampa?
Pat Yasinskas (1:27 PM)
No, Gruden's gone.
Eric (Nashville, TN)
How do you see Keith Brooking's future playing out? I've come to grips with the fact that he probably won't be back with the Falcons next year, but I can't stand the thought of him playing for another team. Is there any chance that he just retires, or does he still want to play enough to go somewhere else?
Pat Yasinskas (1:28 PM)
I suspect the Falcons might try to encourage him to retire. I think that would be the best situation for all parties.
Phil (Rock Hill, SC)
Are these people crazy regarding paying and trading for Bolden? Carolina has to re-tool their defense first. Their DL needs help even with Pepp. After locking up Gross... Their focus has to be on Defense correct? Who are players for JPepp sweepstakes?
Pat Yasinskas (1:29 PM)
Thank you for some sanity on Boldin. Haven't heard a lot on Pep suitors, but I suspect there will be a bunch of them. Just guessing here, but I say look for him to go to a big-market team.
Sir Pritam the Great of England (Death Valley)
What is the likelihood Josh Johnson gets a something more than just a nod this year?
Pat Yasinskas (1:30 PM)
No, don't see it.
Brian (Michigan)
How does NO feel paying a ton of money to Grant and Smith? Any chance one of them gets dumped?
Pat Yasinskas (1:31 PM)
Think they'll give Gregg Williams a year to work with them. They do have talent.
Garry(Charlotte)
Pat are the Panthers still high on Jason Carter?
Pat Yasinskas (1:32 PM)
They like him, but I don't think they see him as a superstar. Maybe a No. 4 WR.
Nathan (Orange County, Ca)
Speaking of the Bucs quarterback situation, who do you see at the helm this upcoming season. Garcia I am assuming is gone.
Pat Yasinskas (1:33 PM)
I think Garcia will be gone. They're going to get younger. It may come in the draft or it might be a free agent. But, again, the crop of free agents isn't that great.
Stephen: (Chapel Hill, NC):
Hey Pat, Any word on Jerry Richardsons recovery? We wish him the best.
Pat Yasinskas (1:33 PM)
Just that it's so far, so good. I wish him the best, too. Great man.
Greg (Atlanta)
Pat, I posted something similar about Atlanta and sanity on Haynesworth/Asomougha. With 20.8M cap space minus 4M for draft picks, extending Roddy, and signing Wilkerson, Koenen, Davis, Dahl, Foxworth, even with releasing Brooking, Stepanovich, and Redman (and not re-signign Grady and Milloy) that still leaves only about 8-9M in FA, with holes at DE, DT, S, and TE to fill. This is NOT a team that will put its eggs in one basket (especially one like Haynesworth who has had durability issues).
Pat Yasinskas (1:34 PM)
Agree totally. They spent a bunch on Turner last year. But I don't see Dimitroff doing that again. They've got a young core in place and they'll continue to build through the draft.
Jeff - Tampa
Why not try McCown a shot he has waited in TB patiently and quietly
Pat Yasinskas (1:35 PM)
I think he's at least a consideration. I thought Gruden should have given him a chance last year.
Jason (Jacksonville, FL)
Do you see Richard Marshall becoming a good choice next year to start?
Pat Yasinskas (1:36 PM)
I think they've already penciled in Marshall as the starter.
Adam (Jersey)
I agree with Jeff on McCown. And, hey, if he fails miserably they get a shot at Bradford or McCoy next year
Pat Yasinskas (1:36 PM)
Good point.
Stephen: (Chapel Hill, NC):
Are Richardson's sons capable of following in his footsteps?
Pat Yasinskas (1:37 PM)
Yes, Mark's been running the day-to-day stuff for years. And Jon runs the stadium well and is connected in the league circles.
Rob (Rocky Hill, CT)
Pat - I know someone asked about QBs for Tampa. Cassel is tagged but listening to sports radio here in New England, people seem to think the Pats would prefer a low 1st rounder vs a higher one due to cap management. Tampa is desperately in need for a QB - Cassel a safer bet than a rookie or Grossman?
Pat Yasinskas (1:38 PM)
I think the new administration would be hesitant to give up draft picks for Cassel. I suspect they get their QB through the draft, a mid-level or FA or even give McCown a shot.
Jeff - Tampa
Gruden has been mentioned a bit, where do you think he will land
Pat Yasinskas (1:39 PM)
Back in the NFL next season. We'll have to wait to see what comes open.
Jason (Jacksonville, FL)
With the hiring of Meeks do you think we will get away from that awful zone scheme that Fitzgerald ate up then said "thats what we expected from them they ran it all year, I am just glad Gamble was on me all night."
Pat Yasinskas (1:40 PM)
I'll say it again. Fox still runs that defense.
Carlun
Do you think the Falcons will focus primarily on the defense this off season?
Pat Yasinskas (1:41 PM)
Yes, I think they work on outside LBs, DT and SS. Maybe DE, too.
Sir Pritam the Great of England (Death Valley)
"It may come in the draft or it might be a free agent. But, again, the crop of free agents isn't that great" ^They wouldn't start a rookie quarterback in a completely new system, would they? And if there's no free agent QBs, why wouldn't they look at Josh Johnson? He has a world of potential
Pat Yasinskas (1:42 PM)
Sir, I saw him in camp last year and I'd be real hesitant to put him in an NFL game any time soon.
Steve (Myrtle Beach)
If Peppers does leave will Charles Johnson and Brayton be the starters?
Pat Yasinskas (1:42 PM)
I would hope they'd bring in someone else to add to that mix.
Michael (Robins AFB, GA)
What do you think is going to happen to Jake D? He has never been a strong passer so why not look for a more accurate one?
Pat Yasinskas (1:43 PM)
Your points are taken. But I'm not seeing any clear-cut alternative out there.
Anquan Boldin (upset)
Pat, you haven't posted enough of my comments in this chat, so I'm outta here.
Pat Yasinskas (1:44 PM)
See you.
Ryan Charlotte nc
Pat bring someone else would be nice for the panthers as they should do that.But also let not forget that both Charles Johnson and Brayton had a very good season
Pat Yasinskas (1:45 PM)
I think Johnson's a player. But I wouldn't count on Brayton being a long-term answer as a starter.
Sir Pritam the Great of England (Death Valley)
Oh, okay. But he did have a year of red-shirting. But if what you say is true, would they just keep him on the bench (to continue getting him ready for the future) or cut/trade him?
Pat Yasinskas (1:45 PM)
They'll hang on to him for a year. It's going to be a new offense and it's a new coaching staff and they'll want to see what they have in him.
Nate NYC
I think that NO does well with Pierre Thomas in the backfield and they upgrade their defense. Playoff team definitely...
Pat Yasinskas (1:46 PM)
I don't think that's a stretch -- if the defense is better.
bobby baton rouge
do you see the saints making any moves to get some of the bigger name free agents out there, there seems to be plenty out there on the defensive side of the ball.
Pat Yasinskas (1:47 PM)
Loomis already has said they won't be big players in free agency. It's because of the cap. They're $4.6 million OVER it right now.
Garry(Charlotte)
Pat like you said Fox is the one that controls the defense and the D-coordinator is just an extension of himself. However having said that do you think that after the way the defense was eaten alive near the end of the season and against Arizona that Fox will be less stuborn and change some of his schemes.
Pat Yasinskas (1:48 PM)
I would hope so.
Nathaniel (Rego Park, NY)
im confused how you're choosing what to post. You're answering the same questions over and over. Are none of my questions relevant?
Pat Yasinskas (1:48 PM)
I've got over 400 questions in the box. I only see 10 at a time before they disappear. I'm going as fast as I can and answering what's in front of me at the moment.
Michael (Robins AFB, GA)
Well I believe most qbs in the NFL would beable to fill his position with the panthers. All he does is hand the ball off and thats how we won this year was from the running game or Jake getting a football in the air for Smithy. I like Jake but I think its time to go younger and maybe try to pick one up somehow with Peppers.
Pat Yasinskas (1:49 PM)
It's definitely something to consider.
Patrick, Atlanta
ATL showed a little more willingness to Turner in the passing game late in the season. Do you think we'll see more in '09 and/or, can you pose that question next time you talk to ATL?
Pat Yasinskas (1:50 PM)
Actually, I think you will see more of that. I also think you'll see more of Norwood in the passing game.
Andy (Ann Arbor)
Will Reggie Bush trade in his ballet slippers for cleats and run like a man this year or will he continue to dance around in the backfield and be good for only catching passes? Can Pierre Thomas handle being the feature runner.
Pat Yasinskas (1:51 PM)
Pierre's decent. I think the coaching staff needs to do a better job of figuring out how to use Reggie.
Garry(Charlotte)
Pats do you plan to chat every Friday for the rest of the off season
Pat Yasinskas (1:52 PM)
Won't be every Friday. But there will be periodic chats. I'll post alerts on the blog every time we're going to have one.
Desmond chow nc
pat whats up man i been asking the same question for about an hour
Pat Yasinskas (1:52 PM)
Ask it again, please. I don't get to see all the questions.
Desmond chow nc kannapolis
pat can you see julius with demarus ware? or do you see him with lamar woodley and jamies harrion now that's havac lets not forget brett kisel contract is up and so is chris canty and marcus spears from dalls.
Pat Yasinskas (1:53 PM)
I'd say Dallas is one to keep an eye on.
Mark (Hegins, PA
Now that Atlanta gets 4+ million back because Weiner retires for the salary cap, do you see the Falcons making a push for either Haynesworth or Peppers?
Pat Yasinskas (1:54 PM)
Doubt it. I just don't think Dimitroff will be a big player in FA this year. Some mid-level guys and they'll lock up some of their own guys.
Jeff - Tampa
Pat what are your views on Caddy Williams? Keep holding out for healthy or use for trading? They do have a great back in Graham
Pat Yasinskas (1:55 PM)
I don't think you can count on Caddy at all and he has no trade value. If he surprises and comes back healthy, it's a big bonus.
Brett (Apopka, FL)
Do you think the Bucs go hard after Haynesworth and pony up the money it's gonna take to get him to finally fix the run defense once and for all? And what about Asomougha if he isn't franchised?
Pat Yasinskas (1:56 PM)
I think they'll make a run at both. Not saying they'll get both, but they have lots of money to work with.
Zach (State College)
Diehard panther fan here in state college. Do you think Diggs has another solid year at outside linebacker or do you think Dan Connor gets moved to the outside.
Pat Yasinskas (1:57 PM)
I think they'll start off with Diggs as the starter, but if Connor comes back healthy he could be in the mix before long.
robert texas
hey pat think we can have peppers and we give you terrell ownes and another pick?
Pat Yasinskas (1:57 PM)
Steve Smith and T.O. together??? That would be special -- on many levels.
Richard (Philly, PA)
What are your thoughts on Antonio Bryant? Up for free agency this, showed potential at the end of the season with a couple of 200 yd games with that amazing TD catch. Think he is going to resign with the Bucs?
Pat Yasinskas (1:58 PM)
Yes, I think the Bucs are working very hard right now to make sure they keep Bryant.
Scott Green Charlotte
Pats why would the panthers consider trading Peppers to the Cowboys?? when the Cowboys don't even have a first round pcik.
Pat Yasinskas (1:59 PM)
Stay tuned. Lots of things can happen.
Mitch (Orlando, FL)
Pat, I just wanna thank you for taking an hour to talk to us NFC South fans because you answered a lot more about each of our teams than we'd get answered anywhere else. Can't wait for the next one.
Pat Yasinskas (2:00 PM)
Thanks to all of you, too. Couple more questions before I have to run.
Dan (NC)
Pat, Panthers are ready tried a Cowboys Receiver (KJ). It didn't work out.
Pat Yasinskas (2:00 PM)
Believe me, I'm not endorsing the T.O. move.
Stephen, NC
When is the last day to designate a franchise player?
Pat Yasinskas (2:00 PM)
Feb. 19.
Andy (Ann Arbor)
Steve Smith and T.O.??? Why not trade for Chad Oco Cinco while your at it.... complete the overrated WR train-wreck collectible set.
Pat Yasinskas (2:01 PM)
Might as well get Boldin and Plaxico, too.
Jeff (TAmpa)
No one has ever doubted AB's talent, but I would be leary of giving such a big deal to an emotional disorder.
Pat Yasinskas (2:02 PM)
The guy behaved himself very well last year. Raheem knows him well.
Paul (Albany, OR)
Is Matt Moore a long term solution in Carolina? He sure grew a ton in his two years in the system at Oregon State.
Pat Yasinskas (2:02 PM)
Not sure that Matt Moore is your answer. In fact, they like McCown better than him.
John Charlotte nc
So pat are you saying that the panthers could get Jessica Simpson insted of a first round pick for Peppers
Pat Yasinskas (2:04 PM)
Hmmm, I wasn't thinking along those lines, but that's an interesting point. That's a good spot to jump off. Thanks for stopping by and keep an eye on the blog -- I'll let you know when the next chat will be.
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