The problem in this draft with picking No. 6, is what player at what position is worth $20 million guaranteed, sight unseen in the NFL? Such a terrible question with no good answer. I believe the NFLPA is going to eventually kill this financially perverted rookie bonanza. It's no good for anybody.
I have to say, I'm with you on that one. From what I care to remember about last year, the D was in the backfield before TJ even had the ball in his hands most times. I think JetFanMack is being a little harsh on him, although I do concede that in some games, he did appear to give up. Hey who wouldn't?
Often what TJ found to take advantage of was adjusted away by the defense. As a result in these circumstances, he was left with no alternatives. A good case on this point was the cut back in the Philadelphia game.
I agree that we should not knock Thomas Jones based on his performance last year. He gained what, 1100 yards?, behind a very weak offensive line. Also, he did that while splitting time with Leon Washington (which I don't have any problems with), and in several games he was forgotten in the second half, especially if the Jets needed to pass. With a better line, and a few more competitive games, he could have been a 1500 yard rusher last year. This is not to say I'm totally against McFadden, because they are different types of runners and a game-breaker on offense, to go with a revamped line, sounds attractive (although I'm not sure McFadden is an every day back, and I'm concerned with the off-the-field stuff and the fumbles). I also think it is worth noting that for the same reason we should not condemn Thomas Jones for last year's running game, we should not condemn Kellen Clemens for the passing game. It was his second year, his first year playing in real games, and he had a line that gave him very little protection and a largely ineffective running game. He did show some nice flashes (remember the second half v. Ravens?) and can be expected to improve this year, if he wins the job. Remember, Clemens was a high second round pick just two years ago, and probably would have been a first round pick if he didn't get hurt his senior year. By supporting Clemens, I also would not be totally opposed to taking Matt Ryan if he fell to us at 6, although I'm not sure I'd be thrilled, either. There are many intangibles when it comes to QBs -like work ethic, performance under pressure, intelligence, leadership - that the front office and coaching staff has a much better handle on than fans. If Clemens is still held in high esteem, I would pass on Ryan and go for some more immediate help (McFadden, Gholston, Long). However, if confidence in Clemens is wavering based on off-the-field stuff and personality, I'd be OK with Ryan, I guess. Mike
