Dan Graziano

  (12:00 PM)

Welcome all. As is the case every week, the topic of the first question was determined by our extremely unscientific Twitter contest, and this week the winning entry was the Dallas Cowboys.

John (Ft. Lauderdale, FL)

Romo a top 10 QB? Do you think that you and the rest of the national media get caught up in the Cowboy mistique a little bit? If he were on the Bills, Dolphins or Panthers do you think he'd still be considered in the top 10? He falls more in the 15-18 range, slightly above average but not elite.

Dan Graziano

  (12:03 PM)

No, John. You're wrong. He's just a guy with a reputation that doesn't match his actual skills, perhaps because he plays for the Cowboys and people are inclined to dislike them/him. He has a 64.1 career completion percentage. He threw for over 4,400 yards in his last full season with 26 touchdowns and nine interceptions. His completion percentage was 69.5 last year before he got hurt, which is outstanding. The numbers back up Romo as a top QB. People just don't like him.

Mike (DC)

Once one of the best rivalry games you could watch....has Skins-Boys rivaly died off now that niether team can make deep playoff runs or constantly contend for the East title?

Dan Graziano

  (12:03 PM)

I think so, but when I suggested that on the blog a few weeks back you'd have thought I was drowning kittens in public.

TimVB (Arlington, VA)

Will Hightower save the Skins' backfield or will his fumbling problem make him more trouble than he's worth?

Dan Graziano

  (12:04 PM)

After careful consideration, I have decided to answer "Yes" to this question.

dwayne (md)

whats the market for c. cooley?

Dan Graziano

  (12:04 PM)

I don't know that the Redskins are trying to trade him, or why they would. He's hurt anyway, which kills the market.

Corey (D.C.)

Dan, do the Giants have anyone in mind to play the "Steve Smith" role? Could Victor Cruz do it?

Dan Graziano

  (12:05 PM)

I think Hixon is the leading candidate, but they're trying to be careful with him and make sure he's healthy. I wouldn't be surprised to see Manningham used in there a lot. Cruz has to prove he can do it, but he'll get a chance to do that.

Dylan (Philly)

Could Kafka become the next Kevin Kolb?

Dan Graziano

  (12:05 PM)

You mean, groomed as an Eagles backup to the point where somebody sees him as a viable starter and overpays to get him in a trade? Yes. I believe he can become that.

Henry (New York)

Danger! Whats good? Gmen o looked really shaky sat, your thoughts on where they go from here/how they can avoid being a terrible offense all season

Dan Graziano

  (12:07 PM)

I think it's impossible to judge a whole offense or defense off of preseason games -- let alone the first one. You don't know which teams are game-planning and which aren't. Lock in on the individual performances. You saw David Baas struggle a bit at center, William Beatty struggle a bit early at left tackle. Eli had a rough game, but I don't worry about him. I'd lock in on those offensive linemen and the tight ends and watch to see how they do. If they get it together quickly, the Giants' offense could be very potent.

Tim (columbia, md)

Predictions for the Redskins / Giants season opener?

Dan Graziano

  (12:08 PM)

It's been a long time since we've seen the Redskins play the Giants tough. They've been almost a gimme for the Giants the past couple of years. I think the Giants play with a lot of confidence there, and I believe they will win the game.

Ham Sandwich (Dan's Refrigerator)

Was Friday's performance by the skins a fluke, or did they show that they might be better than most people think? Especially those "experts" that have them #29 in the ESPN Power Rankings...

Dan Graziano

  (12:09 PM)

You can't predict based on what you see in these preseason games, Ham. You just can't. But the Redskins played well and should feel good about that. Given where they are right now as a franchise (rebuilding, retooling) there's value in that for them.

Not St8Prop (Atlanta)

Granted its the first preseason game, but even against the 1st team Steeler defense Grossman looked pretty comfortable. Interested to see what Beck does this weekend with same crew against a not so formidable defense. But at this point...even with what Shanny is saying, what are the odds of Beck actually winning starting role

Dan Graziano

  (12:10 PM)

They're very good, St8. I think Beck would have to completely collapse in order not to get the job. I think the Shanahans really want him to be the guy.

David (Halifax)

Eagles website has been talking a lot about DRC playing the slot. Is that really the best idea? What happened to Nnamdi inside?

Dan Graziano

  (12:12 PM)

Nnamdi has offered to play it and may play it some. But I think the Eagles believe their best CB alignment has Nnamdi and Samuel outside with Rodgers-Cromartie inside, assuming he learns that slot position. So that's what they're working on trying to create. Kind of a shame, since Joselio Hanson is a pretty good nickel corner and looks as though he could be the odd man out.

Todd(Allentown Pa) [via mobile]

At this point what do you see more likely to happen Boys sign Brian Waters or Devery Henderson for WR depth. Still think they make a move or two. Mayb even a veteran corner as well.

Dan Graziano

  (12:13 PM)

If you're asking which of those two signings is more likely, I'm going to say the WR. The Cowboys like the offensive line depth they drafted this year in Arkin and Nagy and believe they have enough depth to cover the positions right now.

Angel (Arizona)

At the moment, who do you think has the edge on being the 3rd back for the Giants? Ware seemed to get most of the carries against Carolina.

Dan Graziano

  (12:14 PM)

Yes, and they used him in a bit of a third-down, screen-pass kind of role a few times, right? Makes me think that's the kind of thing they have planned for him. I know they like him. I think he's the answer to your question.

Mike (Princeton)

Any idea when we will hear news on Maclin's situation today?

Dan Graziano

  (12:14 PM)

I'm waiting to hear just like you are.

Brendan (DC)

Hey Dan! Does Ware lead the division in sacks again or do Cole, Tuck, or Orakpo take the lead?

Dan Graziano

  (12:15 PM)

I love this question. You just gave me an idea for a Friday debate post, if we ever revive that thing. I think Cole is going to go bonkers this year with Jim Washburn coaching him. He's my pick.

Steve Einig (Megrant)

Dan, What did you think of Beatty at LT on Saturday? Will he be able to handle the load this season? If not do you think the new Stacey brother is up to the task?

Dan Graziano

  (12:16 PM)

Thought it looked as if Beatty got pushed around on the first two offensive series. Thought he looked better after that. Not sure whether the Panthers changed personnel at that point and if the improved performance might reflect that. Beatty has a little less than four weeks to get it together, and might need it all.

Alex Bradley (South Jersey)

@abrad45 here -- thanks for always taking the time to chat and respond. I wanted to know what NFCE offseason move you thought was most underrated (any team) and why?

Dan Graziano

  (12:17 PM)

Was the Cofield signing "underrated" enough to count? I think he was a great pickup for the Redskins.

Luigi (Brooklyn)

I hear all this talk about the "Dream Team and there magical secondary! I also have been reading that Giants secondary has been lights out in camp. Don't you think the Giants have the most balanced secondary in the divison with Rolle and Phillips at safety?

Dan Graziano

  (12:18 PM)

Yes, the Giants' safeties are better than the Eagles' safeties. (And they just re-signed Deon Grant to add to it.) And yes, because of that, you can say the Giants have the better overall secondary. But all three Eagles corners are better than Thomas and Webster, and that's no knock on Thomas or Webster. Eagles may have three of the top five corners in the league when it's all said and done.

Scooter, minny [via mobile]

Do u think john beck is the redskins starting Quarterback in 2012?

Dan Graziano

  (12:20 PM)

No, I don't. But the Shanahans insist he's good, so he'll get the chance to prove himself.

Tony (Pt Jeff, NY)

Romo follow-up-- You mention a bunch of numbers that says he IS that good. Question- teh new stat Total QBR has him ranked 11th(which is about where I would put him). He has good numbers at FIRST GLANCE, but he always finds a way to help his team lose games and doesn't have the IT factor. Curious about your take from that.. thoughts?

Dan Graziano

  (12:22 PM)

I think that's hard to quantify and easy to overstate if you're trying to make the case that a guy is overrated. However, the QBR stat does attempt to quantify things that the old passer rating stat does not, so I'm sure it at least tries to take those intangibles into account. I just think they're overstated. Romo was on a monster roll at the end of '09 and the main reasons it didn't continue in '10 were the Cowboys' awful defense and then his injury.

David (Halifax)

Asante talked about how him and Mikell worked well together which led to him being able to jump routes. Does he drop off now without Mikell or maybe do better in terms of INT's since he's likely going to get more balls coming his way?

Dan Graziano

  (12:23 PM)

Good question, David, and I'm curious to see how the loss of Mikell impacts the Eagles. As for Samuel, I'm sure he's way past the point of needing training wheels and skilled enough to succeed without Mikell there.

rob (roanoke,va)

do you think the cowboys are grooming mcgee to be their future starter?

Dan Graziano

  (12:25 PM)

Well, Romo's only 31, so he's got some years left. McGee would have to show a lot from his backup role for them to consider making a switch. I think the better way to characterize it is that they're grooming McGee to be a starting QB in the NFL, whether it's for them or not. And if he gets to that point and they still like Romo, maybe they spin McGee off like the Eagles did Kolb. But that's a big 'if.'

text305 (Dan's twitter page.)

Who do you think is the best slot WR in the division?

Dan Graziano

  (12:25 PM)

I think it's Steve Smith when he's healthy.

Kurt (NJ)

To follow up on your answer to Corey, who would be the second receiver if Manningham is in the slot? Barden?

Dan Graziano

  (12:26 PM)

No, Barden can't get on the field to practice. I think Hixon is the guy, but again, they're trying to bring him along slowly because of the injury.

Mike (New Lisbon)

Who starts next to London Fletcher in the middle for da skins, Riley, Fox or Alexander?

Dan Graziano

  (12:28 PM)

Probably McIntosh, no?

Sploozoo (DC)

How many times do you want to enter the fray in our comments but are afraid of where the conversation is going? Can you give us your insights on the mystery poster known only as "Phyllis"?

Dan Graziano

  (12:29 PM)

I don't know any details on "Phyllis," who predates me, and I try to stay out of it when the commenters start firing on each other. I do enjoy being in there and debating, and the opportunity it affords me to clarify or expand on something I wrote.

Brendon (Cleveland)

Dan, Whats up with the giants new prince?? is he going to be getting playing time this year? At Safety? Corner?

Dan Graziano

  (12:30 PM)

Amukamara, Giants first-round pick, is injured and out, I believe, at least half the season.

Luigi (Brooklyn)

Being that Eli is now entering his prime as a NFL quarterback, would you consider him elite? Is he the best QB in the division?

Dan Graziano

  (12:30 PM)

I think Eli is extremely good. I put him right on the edge of that top 10 in the league. I rank him third in the division right now, behind Vick and ever-so-slightly behind Romo. One man's opinion.

Mike (Statesboro, GA)

Are Vick, McCoy, Jackson and Maclin in the cards for the Iggles long term or are the issues with Vick's and Jackson's contracts and Maclin's mystery illness going to derail that?

Dan Graziano

  (12:32 PM)

It has yet to be determined whether they will stick with Jackson long term. Lots of work yet to be done before that contract gets worked out, if it ever does. They believe they have coverage in case he leaves (assuming Maclin is healthy). As for Vick, I think he's a total mystery. Can he do it again? Can he stay healthy? As long as they have him and he's playing the way he did last year, they have a chance to do special things. But they don't know how long that window will stay open, which is why you see them loading up for this season.

Nostradamus (a.k.a. Rex Grossman) (D.C.)

We are going to win the NFC East!! You heard it here first!! Sleeper alert!!

Dan Graziano

  (12:32 PM)

Actually, heard it last week, somewhere else...

Chris (NJ)

Why did you pick Luigi twice Dan?

Dan Graziano

  (12:33 PM)

I rarely look at the names on top of the questions, Jeff.

Mike (Philly)

If maclin is unable to start the season, do you think avant has shown enough to fill the void and produce? any fantasy value for avant?

Dan Graziano

  (12:33 PM)

Yes, and yes. If Maclin isn't in there Week 1, I'd be thrilled to have Avant in my fantasy lineup.

Corgis Unlimited (Northern VA)

The eagles have captured the spotlight and made more upgrades in one preseason than in the past 5 years combined. With all the talent they have amassed, is this a make or break year for Andy Reid? Will eagles fans chase him out of town if they fail to reach the 'ship?? Is he even in good enough physical condition to run if they try to chase him out???

Dan Graziano

  (12:34 PM)

To the serious part of your question, no. Reid's job does not depend on whether the Eagles reach the Super Bowl this year. He's been too great for too long for that to be the case.

Kevin (NYC)

I assume that offenses will gameplan to attack the Eagles' safeties and LBs. How do you envision that playing out? Also, DRC may have more potential than Thomas or Webster, but he was one of the lowest rated CBs last year according to PFF.

Dan Graziano

  (12:35 PM)

Yes, this is a worthwhile point. Rodgers-Cromartie is coming off of a bad year in which he did not play to his potential. If he plays like that again, my earlier assessment would obviously have to be amended. You are correct.

Cowboysfan98182 (Work )

Dan do you think this is a make or break chat for you?

Dan Graziano

  (12:35 PM)

Yes.

Scott (MD)

What did you think of Ryan Kerrigans performance? I thought Kerrigan looked really solid. With a few weeks to learn the position still, do you think he and Orakpo could/would classify as one of the best pairs of OLBs?

Dan Graziano

  (12:37 PM)

Yeah, Scott. Kerrigan is a natural at pressuring the quarterback, and obviously you saw that Friday night. I doubt he'll struggle much with the transition from the three-point stance to the two. He still needs to learn and get better in coverage, but that will come with time. He's had only two weeks of NFL practices, right? If that? Regardless, though, he makes an immediate impact as a pass rusher, and yes, he and Orakpo are a fearsome combination.

Rob (Baltimore)

Alright you got to franchise one, long term deal one, and release one - Orakpo, Ware, Tuck. GO!

Dan Graziano

  (12:38 PM)

I don't have to release one. I can get a first-round pick for any of those guys if I have to get rid of one.

Andrew Luck (CA)

Am I the starting QB for the Washington Redskins in 2012?

Dan Graziano

  (12:38 PM)

No. They won't be bad enough this year to draft you.

russ dallas [via mobile]

Do you think the eagles may come to regret shipping Kolb off to the desert?

Dan Graziano

  (12:38 PM)

No. Not with what they got in return. That'll be a good deal no matter what Kolb becomes.

Timmy (Stephens City, VA)

Dan, Shanny seems to be pretty pumped about Jarvis Jenkins, you think he can break into the starting role early in the season?

Dan Graziano

  (12:39 PM)

Yes, though Carriker hasn't done anything to lose it.

Dan Graziano

  (12:39 PM)

Yes, though Carriker hasn't done anything to lose it.

st8prop (Atlanta, GA)

Some people are still skeptic of the JPP pick last year...but I think his play so far has proven otherwise..dont you think?

Dan Graziano

  (12:39 PM)

Still a young player, St8, but he has incredible ability as you see. I imagine there are some growing pains to come, but as long as he's in that rotation with Tuck and Osi, they'll be able to use him intelligently as he continues to learn. It's the Giant way.

Mike (Statesboro, GA)

Do you think that if Vick were to get hurt in Week 1, Vince Young would be the automatic backup or would Reid consider playing Kafka, seeing how he has much more experience in this offense?

Dan Graziano

  (12:40 PM)

I think there's a chance it could be Kafka for that reason, but it could depend on how quickly Young picks up the offense over the next three or four weeks. Regardless, if Vick gets hurt, I believe they're toast.

Steve (Bristol)

Dan, that's the first I've read from you saying the Redskins won't be bad enough to get Luck... what made you change your mind?

Dan Graziano

  (12:41 PM)

Nothing. I've never said they'd be the worst team in the league and don't believe they will. They won six games last year and got better on defense.

Pat Hanlon (Meadowlands, NJ)

It seems like you are not going to pick the Giants to win the division, but since I like you, I will give you a choice of which derogatory statement to use when I tweet about what an idiot you are. Your choices are knucklehead, or a sarcastic Lombardi.

Dan Graziano

  (12:41 PM)

Pat, I would prefer Lombardi, but given all of the advance notice, could you please work on coming up with an original one, just for me? It'd mean a lot.

Justin (Richmond)

After our first preseason game, Im a bit worried about the Skins secondary. Josh Wilson and D Hall looked very shaky. Do you think the Skins sign another CB? Or am I jumping the gun given that Landry and Atogwe were both out??

Dan Graziano

  (12:42 PM)

I think the safeties being out created some communication issues back there that can be ironed out once those guys are back.

Chris (NY)

Who will have the best season in the Beast at WR and RB?

Dan Graziano

  (12:42 PM)

Hakeem Nicks and LeSean McCoy.

Evan (NC)

If you're Mike Shanahan and Grossman or Beck gets you to 8-8 or 9-7 this year, do you still draft a QB in 2012 or instead do you focus on offensive weapons?

Dan Graziano

  (12:44 PM)

I think if Beck plays well in that scenario, you could see them focusing on WRs and RBs. I don't think Shanahan (as he proved this year) will draft a QB just to do it. He'd have to feel like he was getting a franchise guy. I'm sure he feels Luck is, but I don't know where he comes down on guys like Jones and Barkley.

Nadolny3452 (Wolcott, CT)

What do you think about the depth of the Giants' LB corps? Herzlich, Greg Jones and Adrian Tracy looked good on Saturday vs. Carolina. Sintim and Dillard are back as well. Kiwi should adjust fine and is a playmaker with great range and Jonathan Goff was solid last year and I think he will surprise people this year at the middle. What is your take on this group? Thanks.

Dan Graziano

  (12:45 PM)

I remain not-sold on Goff as the starting MLB, but as with Shanahan and QBs in Washington, I'm more than willing to admit that Tom Coughlin and Perry Fewell know more about this than I do. Therefore, while I think the Giants' LB group is a weak spot, I must say that the move of Kiwanuka back there was an ingenious way of addressing the problem -- dealing from strength to address a weakness within their own roster.

Mike (New Lisbon)

How can u pick McCoy? The eagles don't run the ball! Remember Brian Westbrook only had 1 1000 yard season. I say Bradshaw.

Dan Graziano

  (12:45 PM)

Okay, well, you know... sometimes people disagree. I like Bradshaw a lot.

Scott (MD)

In reply to Steve in Bristols question:Don't you think the skins improved on Offense as well?Hightower, Gafney, Helu, Hankerson, the O-line

Dan Graziano

  (12:46 PM)

I think that falls into the "remains to be seen" category. Lot of "if" on your list there.

Todd(Pa) [via mobile]

What do you think of Sensabaugh? Hurting or helping Cowboys D? You think Church could beat him out or they look at a Darren Sharper?

Dan Graziano

  (12:47 PM)

I think Sensabaugh is fine, and versatile enough that they can play him at either safety spot and move other guys around him. Elam is an upgrade for them back there, and Sensabaugh could be helped by that.

SkinsHailYeah (DC)

This is the second time I've heard you omit this years draft class. Were you a sleep when the Skins made their picks?

Dan Graziano

  (12:48 PM)

It's possible. I find the draft itself somewhat dull from a programming standpoint and might have dozed off. Also, I was between jobs, so I may have been drinking. But to what specific comment of mine does your criticism refer?

Mike (Hoboken, NJ)

Are the Bills kicking themselves in the butt taking Maybin over Orakpo?

Dan Graziano

  (12:48 PM)

Yeah, you would think so.

Anthony (NYC)

What did you think of KC's column saying the Giants are actually the team to beat in the beast?

Dan Graziano

  (12:50 PM)

Yeah, that posted right as this chat was about to start, so I didn't get all the way through it. He raises some good points, but I think the issue with the Giants is that the roster is thin in spots. If the whole team stays healthy, they're good enough to win it. But teams generally don't do that.

Trent (PA)

Do you have a prediction as to how the BEast teams will finish in regards to the division ?

Dan Graziano

  (12:50 PM)

Yes. I do. And when the time comes to issue that prediction, I promise, you will be the first to know. As long as you're sitting right in front of your computer, hitting "refresh" over and over again.

Cereal Killer (JAX)

PUNTER QUESTION!: Not really, just seems to be the only way I can get your attention. My calculations indicate that with the Eagles loaded up, the Giants steady as she goes, and the Cowboys likely to bounce back from last year, the NFC BEast is once again the toughest division in the NFL. The other strong divisions (AFC East, AFC North, NFC North) have two good teams and two stinkers, except maybe for the NFC South. Agree?

Dan Graziano

  (12:51 PM)

Wait! This isn't a punter question!!! I've been duped.Anyway, yeah, plus add in that they're playing the NFC West this year and you could see the NFC East teams' records being inflated. That assumes, of course, that they themselves are good. Which your question did assume. Even if it wasn't a punter question. Grumble, grumble...

Greg (Brooklyn. )

Dan, The Giants re-signed Safety Deon Grant, how much does that help their defense?

Dan Graziano

  (12:53 PM)

I think it's big, Greg, especially with Amukamara out. Grant was very popular in the locker room, too. Kenny Phillips told me last week he's still watching film of Grant this camp to pick up pointers.

Andrew (Philadelphia)

How do you think the Eagles' specialist situation will play itself out? Isn't it a little dicey having two rookies out there? Especially with the kicker...

Dan Graziano

  (12:54 PM)

Yeah, but they're both very accomplished and highly decorated college kickers. Bears watching. If the poor kid misses one big kick everybody will say, "See??? Rookie kicker!!!" Lots of pressure on that guy.

UberSamoyed (Frisco, TX)

Why not try a holiday in Sweden this year?

Dan Graziano

  (12:55 PM)

See the lovely lakes, the wonderful telephone system, and many interesting furry animals. Including the majestic moose.

Jason (VA)

PUNTER QUESTION!: Dodge or Weatherford?

Dan Graziano

  (12:56 PM)

Weatherford, for me, all day.

F-f-football f-f-f-fan (M-montana)

If Winnipeg can have a hockey team, can LA have a football team?

Dan Graziano

  (12:56 PM)

If Woody had gone straight to the police, none of this would ever have happened.

tony (indy)

You answer the sweedish question and not this one? Does Felix Jones rush for over 1000 yards this year? And do you think he will average over 5 receptions a game?

Dan Graziano

  (12:56 PM)

A moose once bit my sister.

Grayson (South Jersey)

Answer my question jerky jerk face!!!

Dan Graziano

  (12:57 PM)

No.

tony (indy)

i hate you

Dan Graziano

  (12:58 PM)

Awesome. Well, that'll do it for this week, folks. I'm out of here. Enjoy Green Day.