So I’m watching the free agent wire as I do every year around this time, as NFL teams dump veterans to clear cap space, and wonder how player “X” would fit in with the Pats. Here’s a couple that intrigue me.
That’s Shawn Springs. Springs was released by the Redskins when they signed DeAngelo Hall. I know he turns 34 in a week or so, but this guy seems like a piece the Pats need in their defense. Here’s the scouting report from ESPN.com:
He is a good athlete with the size and strength to match up against all types of wide receivers. He is a competitive player who will rise up to the challenge. He has veteran route recognition and is not afraid to take chances to come up with big plays. His aggressiveness will get him in trouble at times, but he usually takes calculated risks rather than freelancing. He can be physical in press showing good hand use to disrupt a release. He can turn and run quickly with the ability to mirror breaks. His recovery speed is descending and he will struggle, if he is late to flip his hips. He is strong and can play physical down field. He has good foot quickness and will shuffle when playing zones with good discipline and leverage. He has good closing quickness for his age. He can read the QB and close on good angles. He is a willing run support player who shows toughness to wrap and secure. He is descending due to age and injuries throughout his career.
He’s not going to command DeAngelo money, so I say the Pats sign him.
Now as I mentioned yesterday, Peppers could be the reason the Pats cleared up so much cap room. The thing is they’d have to give the Panthers some sort of package of picks that they’d be willing to part ways. I don’t think that they’re going to accept the pick we got from the Chiefs either. Peppers is one of if not the best player at his position, to let him go for a second rounder seems kind of dumb.
So I purpose the alternative stop gap for a year…
Yup, Jason Taylor. It’s no secret that Bill wanted him in here last year before the Dolphins traded him to the Redskins. With Taylor as a backup/insurance policy for Seymour, I think it’s a smart signing. You’d sign him likely for a one year deal and when that comes off the books, Peppers is a free agent (in theory). The rumors have him going to the Bucs, but why not make the call all the same?
Just a couple thoughts, we’ll see how this all plays out, but I’ll keep refreshing over on Boston.com waiting for deals to happen.
