NFL Free Agent Tackles in 06

[Tomlinson21]

NFL Free Agent Tackles in 06, take your pick and discuss:

Adam Haayer UFA Cardinals
Anthony Clement UFA 49ers
Barrett Brooks UFA Steelers
Barry Stokes UFA Falcons
Bob Whitfield UFA Giants
Chad Slaughter UFA Raiders
Courtney Van Buren RFA Chargers
Ephraim Salaam UFA Jaguars
Ethan Brooks UFA Cowboys
Jeff Backus UFA Lions
John St. Clair UFA Bears
Jon Runyan UFA Eagles
Jordan Black RFA Chiefs
Kevin Barry UFA Packers
Kevin Shaffer UFA Falcons
L.J. Shelton UFA Browns
Makoa Freitas RFA Colts
Matt Hill UFA Panthers
Mike Pearson UFA Jaguars
Rex Tucker UFA Rams
Scott Gragg UFA Jets
Seth Wand RFA Texans
Stocker McDougle UFA Dolphins
Todd Fordham UFA Panthers
Todd Steussie UFA Buccaneers
Tom Ashworth UFA Patriots
Tony Pashos RFA Ravens
Torrin Tucker RFA Cowboys
Victor Riley UFA Texans
Wayne Hunter RFA Seahawks

[Chargeroo]

Ephraim Salaam UFA Jaguars - Former SDSU player. Longtime starter with Atlanta. He could be a decent backup for Oben

[Chargeroo]

Jeff Backus UFA Lions - 5 year starter at Left Tackle - still has some good years left at age 28. He's never missed a start. Could be just what we need to upgrade our line.

[Chargeroo]

Jon Runyan UFA Eagles - Pro Bowl player several time but the Eagles won't let him go. He'd be nice to have though!

[Podium]

Jon Runyan UFA Eagles - Pro Bowl player several time but the Eagles won't let him go. He'd be nice to have though!

Doesn't he own the riptide? or whatever the San Diego arena team is called.

[drangus]

NFL Free Agent Tackles in 06, take your pick and discuss:

Adam Haayer UFA Cardinals
Anthony Clement UFA 49ers
Barrett Brooks UFA Steelers
Barry Stokes UFA Falcons
Bob Whitfield UFA Giants
Chad Slaughter UFA Raiders
Courtney Van Buren RFA Chargers
Ephraim Salaam UFA Jaguars
Ethan Brooks UFA Cowboys
Jeff Backus UFA Lions
John St. Clair UFA Bears
Jon Runyan UFA Eagles
Jordan Black RFA Chiefs
Kevin Barry UFA Packers
Kevin Shaffer UFA Falcons
L.J. Shelton UFA Browns
Makoa Freitas RFA Colts
Matt Hill UFA Panthers
Mike Pearson UFA Jaguars
Rex Tucker UFA Rams
Scott Gragg UFA Jets
Seth Wand RFA Texans
Stocker McDougle UFA Dolphins
Todd Fordham UFA Panthers
Todd Steussie UFA Buccaneers
Tom Ashworth UFA Patriots
Tony Pashos RFA Ravens
Torrin Tucker RFA Cowboys
Victor Riley UFA Texans
Wayne Hunter RFA Seahawks




Their are a couple of guys here that really stick out I will list them in order of best to last

Mcdougle--I don't think Miami will let him get away-former hurricane took less money last year to stay in miami area

Hunter--I don't think AJ will give up a 3rd for him but he is a guy I have like since college-may be better than anything we could find in the 3rd round of the draft (although this year O-line is pretty deep)--he could be a really good RT for us

Salaam--reminds me of Roman Oben-we could use his experience-he could beat out olivea at RT-proven veteran

underachievers

clement and shelton are talented underachievers-with a guys like this you could end up looking great or really bad by signing them-some veterans turn it on at this point in their careers when they realize that they could be out of football

[Podium]

[/b]




Their are a couple of guys here that really stick out I will list them in order of best to last

Mcdougle--I don't think Miami will let him get away-former hurricane took less money last year to stay in miami area

Hunter--I don't think AJ will give up a 3rd for him but he is a guy I have like since college-may be better than anything we could find in the 3rd round of the draft (although this year O-line is pretty deep)--he could be a really good RT for us

Salaam--reminds me of Roman Oben-we could use his experience-he could beat out olivea at RT-proven veteran

underachievers

clement and shelton are talented underachievers-with a guys like this you could end up looking great or really bad by signing them-some veterans turn it on at this point in their careers when they realize that they could be out of football

Yeah I agree about veterans. Goff and Oben did the same thing.

[BoltsfanNYC]

hey does anyone know how to get accurate draft order for whole draft?

[drangus]

hey does anyone know how to get accurate draft order for whole draft?

we won't know the final order until the NFL awards the compensatory selections

[BigBadJamal76]

Best Player on that list, Kevin Schaffer, LT, Atlanta. He would be a great addition to our team which greatly needs a left tackle.

[SuperBowlBolts]

Best Player on that list, Kevin Schaffer, LT, Atlanta. He would be a great addition to our team which greatly needs a left tackle.
i thought he played RT, but whatever he is small though that is my one and only concern about the guy. It doesnt seem to be a big problem hes quick of the snap and uses leverage really well

[drangus]

i thought he played RT, but whatever he is small though that is my one and only concern about the guy. It doesnt seem to be a big problem hes quick of the snap and uses leverage really well

schaffer is a zone blocking scheme player--he doesn't fit in our system

it is like the difference between 3-4 DEs and 4-3 DEs, know what I mean?

[Dojo]

I heard alot of talk about Olivea possibly moving to guard if we pick up a key RT. Does anyone, besides me, think this is a very very good line.
LT- Roman Oben
LG- Shane Olivea
C- Nick Hardwick
RG-Mike Goff
RT-Courtney VanBuren
I know, I know...VanBuren is often hurt and unproven. I see him as a sleeper this year and could potentially work his way into the starting lineup. He was a 1st day draft pick, so he has potential if he's healthy. He could also be that mauler tackle that we've been missing. I also think that moving Olivea to guard would be great for runs inside, Olivea having that patent meanstreak, and outside, has the quickness to pull and block a smaller man. The only problem is I thought this year was VanBurens last chance and he got hurt, again. He may be cut before fa. And Olivea to g may be "rocking the boat" a little too much. I just think this line has the potential to be productive without the big time free agents that everyone is looking for.

[JoeMcRugby]

Yeah I agree about veterans. Goff and Oben did the same thing.

Oben started more than 100 consecutive games before he came to the Chargers and was the starting OLT for the winning team in a Super Bowl.

He "turned it on" long before he ever got to the Chargers.

[Chargeroo]

I heard alot of talk about Olivea possibly moving to guard if we pick up a key RT. Does anyone, besides me, think this is a very very good line.
LT- Roman Oben
LG- Shane Olivea
C- Nick Hardwick
RG-Mike Goff
RT-Courtney VanBuren
I know, I know...VanBuren is often hurt and unproven. I see him as a sleeper this year and could potentially work his way into the starting lineup. He was a 1st day draft pick, so he has potential if he's healthy. He could also be that mauler tackle that we've been missing. I also think that moving Olivea to guard would be great for runs inside, Olivea having that patent meanstreak, and outside, has the quickness to pull and block a smaller man. The only problem is I thought this year was VanBurens last chance and he got hurt, again. He may be cut before fa. And Olivea to g may be "rocking the boat" a little too much. I just think this line has the potential to be productive without the big time free agents that everyone is looking for. I've wondered about CVB too and he could be the answer, but ......... it would be foolish to count on him. I think they need to get a OT in this draft that is capable of playing RT now and has the ability to move to LT when Roman Oben retires. If CVB could get healthy and stay healthy then let him compete with the rookie for the starting job. The same thing would then be true for the Guard position - let Goff and Deilman fight for that other Guard spot. I do like the idea of moving Olivea to Guard because he can run block pretty well and he's a good pass blocker. I think I'd move him to RG though, so he was right next to the new guy at RT talking to him and helping him out. Let the other Guards fight for the spot next to Oben.

[Lyi]

Jon Runyan UFA Eagles - Pro Bowl player several time but the Eagles won't let him go. He'd be nice to have though!

i like jon runyan alot hes my favorite philadelphia eagle. i live in philadelphia and i like runyan alot. the eagles from what i hear can not keep runyan, i predict a sign and trade gain a 2nd first round pick.

[Lyi]

out of those tackles i'd take ephraim salaam, tom ashworth, and jon runyan.

ephraim, runyan, and ashworth could play rt and move olivea to guard.

[XsandOs]

Oben started more than 100 consecutive games before he came to the Chargers and was the starting OLT for the winning team in a Super Bowl.

He "turned it on" long before he ever got to the Chargers.
I think Oben is pretty good. It isn't his fault that he got injured. Why are so many people talking about getting a new left tackle in the draft?

[XsandOs]

I've wondered about CVB too and he could be the answer, but ......... it would be foolish to count on him. I think they need to get a OT in this draft that is capable of playing RT now and has the ability to move to LT when Roman Oben retires. If CVB could get healthy and stay healthy then let him compete with the rookie for the starting job. The same thing would then be true for the Guard position - let Goff and Deilman fight for that other Guard spot. I do like the idea of moving Olivea to Guard because he can run block pretty well and he's a good pass blocker. I think I'd move him to RG though, so he was right next to the new guy at RT talking to him and helping him out. Let the other Guards fight for the spot next to Oben.
You don't like Leander Jordan?

[Dojo]

You don't like Leander Jordan?
NO! He gave up toooo many sacks at horrible times. Lynch blitzed the left side to sack brees. the dolphin game ended on a sack given up by jordan. He's too flat footed and constantly gets beaten one on one. At least Oben won most of his one on one battles. He's due some of the blame why karl got fired a yesterday!!!

[Chargeroo]

You don't like Leander Jordan? I think Leander Jordon is a "journeyman" player. He gives up a sack or two in every game - most of them were in the fourth quarter. He started the final 8 games but gave up more sacks than anyone else. Roman Oben is a good pass blocker but he's 34 years old and it's time to bring in some young guy to learn the position while Oben is still here.

Assuming Roman is ready to play when camp opens next July, they could play the young guy at RT, move Olivea to the Guard position and thus, strengthen two positions in the line. Goff and Deilman could fight it out for the other Guard position. The loser becomes the first man in when injury hits one of the Guards. AJ keeps saying stack them up three deep and let them fight it out. I think that's what I want to see - depth is so important in the NFL. The four teams that are still in the running in the NFL all have strong o-lines and that's one reason they are still in the running. We need a line that can pass block and run block. When our starting five are healthy they can pass block pretty darn well but they can't open holes for LT. That needs to be fixed.

[TJ21]

Here Here Chargeroo! Jordan is gone. Olivea can try his luck at guard. Let Oben do left and some young gun (Marcus McNeill hopefully) do right. We should be set and ready. With a better O-Line coach we should be good to go. Get it done in 06.

[chrisx448]

when did Walter Jones (LT for the Seahawks) get signed to a long term deal, last time i heard they just kept giving him the franchise tag.

[CBO]

At the beginig of the season

[stevebia]

Why spend the cap on a FA LT, when Oben may be back healthy for next season? Yes, he's getting older, but still gets the job done. Drafting a LT a few rounds down makes more sense, let someone develop under Oben and address more immediate needs, like DB. The O Line is fine with Oben, inadequate without, so depth is the key there. We need a couple of stud DB's more than anything.

[drangus]

Why spend the cap on a FA LT, when Oben may be back healthy for next season? Yes, he's getting older, but still gets the job done. Drafting a LT a few rounds down makes more sense, let someone develop under Oben and address more immediate needs, like DB. The O Line is fine with Oben, inadequate without, so depth is the key there. We need a couple of stud DB's more than anything.


May being the operative word...that is too big of a risk to take--I read in the inside slant, that gets posted weekly on chargers.com, that Obens injury is far more serious than they originally anticipated--he tore ligaments in his foot and suffered nerve damage-he might be having surgery soon and there is no guarantee that the old guy could be healed up by TC or that he will be as effective after he returns-remember, his play has not been spectacular to begin with

the team WILL draft a T in one of the first 3 rounds and possibly bring in another in FA, Jeff Backus could be a good fit for the next 5-6 years but I suspect the lions will franchise tag him--a lot of people talk about steve hutchinson but he ain't going nowhere he will be franchised or extended--who knows what NO will do with LeCharles Bentley-but he is a guy we should pursue if he is available, he would be a monster upgrade at the center position-I keep hearing talk about the tackles and I agree but I believe one of our weak links up front is hardwick--Goff played center for 5 years in Cincy so I could see him moving inside and taking Olivea with him a rookie T could round out the group--Kevin Mawae might also be available this offseason

this could be the line-up on opening day

LT--Oben
LG--Dielman
C--Goff
RG--Olivea
RT--Jonathan Scott from Texas 6' 7" 323

on defense....

sam madison or charles woodson would be great additions in the secondary--madison might not be available until after June cuts along with Lavar Arringtion--so don't panic if AJ doesn't do anything in the secondary right away

[Chargeroo]

Why spend the cap on a FA LT, when Oben may be back healthy for next season? Yes, he's getting older, but still gets the job done. Drafting a LT a few rounds down makes more sense, let someone develop under Oben and address more immediate needs, like DB. The O Line is fine with Oben, inadequate without, so depth is the key there. We need a couple of stud DB's more than anything. That's exactly the problem we have right now - we thought we could get some good ones later in the draft. If you want to be a consistent winner in the NFL you need a very good o-line and you aren't likely to get that by drafting them late. They aren't pretty but they are needed. :)

Look at last years draft, we drafted o-line help in round 5/6/7. Two stuck with the team, one was cut. The two that stuck never started a single game. One was on the PT most of the year.

[BoltsfanNYC]

WE NEED A GOOD TACKLE>.. and put olivea back at guard WE would improve 2 for 1 in that case...Oben should be healthy by june. we will have a good attack... must get BIG playmaker safety

[ghost]

I think Oben is pretty good. It isn't his fault that he got injured. Why are so many people talking about getting a new left tackle in the draft? - XsandOs There are unconfirmed rumours that Oben's foot injury is far worse than is being reported. It is said that Oben tore the bottom of his foot entirely away from the bones, it sounds so gruesome, I just hate to think about it, but I've never heard of anything like that. I thought it was a Lisz-Franc injury, but like I said, I have heard that it is dire. After the injury, I read that he was walking like an 80-year old man. That would explain it.

[CBO]

There are unconfirmed rumours that Oben's foot injury is far worse than is being reported. It is said that Oben tore the bottom of his foot entirely away from the bones, it sounds so gruesome, I just hate to think about it, but I've never heard of anything like that. I thought it was a Lisz-Franc injury, but like I said, I have heard that it is dire. After the injury, I read that he was walking like an 80-year old man. That would explain it.

If this is the case I dont see a rookie coming in I think we would put our money on the best LT in FA or trade for someone.

[Dojo]

There are unconfirmed rumours that Oben's foot injury is far worse than is being reported. It is said that Oben tore the bottom of his foot entirely away from the bones, it sounds so gruesome, I just hate to think about it, but I've never heard of anything like that. I thought it was a Lisz-Franc injury, but like I said, I have heard that it is dire. After the injury, I read that he was walking like an 80-year old man. That would explain it.
oop. looks like we need a left takle. If that's the case it looks like Roman will retire and we'll need to groom a LT or get an LT in fa. We don't need a rookie though. We need to bring in someone with experience to get Drew some time. Leander is definatly not the answer. I don't even see him staying on the team next year. Another possibility that i havn't heard much of is moving Olivea to LT. He would need to work on his footwork and get a little bit leaner but he could definatly do it.

[Shamrock]

NFL Free Agent Tackles in 06, take your pick and discuss:


Mike Pearson UFA Jaguars



I'm trying to remember which forum I read it in, but some poster was talking up Mike Pearson (http://cbs.sportsline.com/nfl/players/playerpage/302213). The Jags drafted Khalif Barnes last year, and Barnes will be replacing Pearson at OLT.

SD might be able to land him as a possible fill in if Oben needs more time because of his foot, then switch Pearson to ORT, moving Olivea to ORG.

[mastershake]

Pearson would be sick...Man...if Oben's foot really is that bad then Left Tackle has to be the most critical need. Foot torn from the bone??? Aye Kaylata. Runyan wouldn't be bad either. I never did see Hardwick as a liablility along the front..I did see Goff slow down a lot from last year and Olivea did look like he regressed a bit...but maybe throw in a Stud FA Left Tackle, draft more O-Line and add a healthy Oben to the Mix and rotate 'em all to keep it fresh. Can't have enough Horses in front of Super Man without a cape.

[BoltsfanNYC]

pearson great Idea... bring in another guy not good enough to be starter somewhere else isnt that are entire line...

How about drafting Khalif Barnes last year he tore up senior week... Owned everyone at the point of contact.. and we could have traded our 19 this year for him in 2nd round last year... 34 no instead.... we play guards at tackle!!! and draft or undraft in 7th round to guard LT 50mil and brees 50 mil river 50 mil.. hmmmmmmmmmmm

[BoltsfanNYC]

We need a nate newton!

[JoeMcRugby]

We need a nate newton!

Nate Newton was a guard.

[mastershake]

Pearson is a good Left Tackle...The Jags usally draft good lineman or pick up good lineman...wich is why Pearson may be available. Personally...I would try and trade up to get a stud Left Tackle...all of the top guys at this spot are drafted really high for a reason...if San Diego sees something in one of those guys in the draft this year I would emplore AJ to TRADE UP!!! If you give Brees time to let the Recievers move around the field he will carve up a Defense like a succulant tenderloin steak and feed us all TD pass after TD pass while LT jumps over D-lineman who have just been mauled into the ground...

[Chargeroo]

Pearson is a good Left Tackle...The Jags usally draft good lineman or pick up good lineman...wich is why Pearson may be available. Personally...I would try and trade up to get a stud Left Tackle...all of the top guys at this spot are drafted really high for a reason...if San Diego sees something in one of those guys in the draft this year I would emplore AJ to TRADE UP!!! If you give Brees time to let the Recievers move around the field he will carve up a Defense like a succulant tenderloin steak and feed us all TD pass after TD pass while LT jumps over D-lineman who have just been mauled into the ground...I agree, the problem is that only one of these LOT's look like they could step right into the lineup at LOT - D'Brickashaw Ferguson. How could we trade up high enough to get him? The best of the rest seem like they may be able to play ROT as rookies but will need time to play LOT. Considering Obens foot problem and age, do have the time? I guess that's what AJ must be pondering now. ;)

By the way, every time I type the name D'Brickashaw Ferguson I want to thank my parents for giving me a short first name - wouldn't you hate to have to say and write D'Brickashaw for your entire life? :)

[Capfan]

There undoubtedly will be a few more "cap casualty" names added to the list due to teams being way over next years cap. I'd like to see who is in the worst shape and which tackles carry the biggest numbers. I'm thinking of Chris Samuels situation in Washington in particular. He's resisted their atttempts to restructure to this point and I seem to recall they are in trouble capwise. Same goes w/ the Raiders and Jets. Players like Barry Sims and Scott Gragg may be added to the list if their cap numbers are too high.

[mastershake]

If Oben is walking like a quote "80 year old man"...there is some serious trouble in the Chargers Fortress. In '04 he showed that with just the simple addition of adding a LOT was was just capable of playing the position could do to for our offense. But seriously...It never hurts to have to many O-linemen. Signing a guy in FA and Drafting one is probably the best course of action. Guys get hurt. Not just for long periods of time, multiple games and such...but O-lineman get stingers..gouged in the eye..winded. Rotating them helps keep vets rested and helps the young guys with thier development. I'd like to see Jon Runyan in here...he can play any position on the Offensive line...a guy like that is a motivator. I'd also like to see Pearson...We have the money this year to make a splash...and the Spanos' will spend...I just hope AJ doesn't get to "cute" with the fix IE Bwoah Jue...and that is not a knock on AJ...he saved this Franchise IMHO...but, it's the one thing I can think of that didn't work out. Last years FA crop wasn't nearly as good as what may be out there this year. Sign Runyan, Sign Pearson and do something to get Mcniel.

[BoltsfanNYC]

Mcneil Showed today... he is an athlete too! anyone else see the catch he made.. He is a football player on top of being a STUD! I WANT HIM>>> screw the combines! get me this guy... Lets sign a FA S then draft... Free agent Bently good move too!

[OH-10BoltsFan]

i agree that mcneil is an amazing athelete i just hope he's available for us when our time comes around cuz i know that Dallas basically has the same team needs as us (strangely enough just like last year) so ive read that whatever position they pick, OT or S we'll pick the best available of the opposite position

[BoltsfanNYC]

I think if it is pick 13 on the clock we call Philly and Say you owe us for a few years aago... Here is the 19 and a 2nd next year... Give us the 14... and we will throw in a 6th this year too!!! move into 14 and grab McNeil! Presto!

[Chargeroo]

Which McNeil areyou guys discussing, there are five or six of them in this draft.?

[Confuzed Azn]

I'm pretty sure they mean Marcus. Who is extremely overrated IMO.

[SuperBowlBolts]

I'm pretty sure they mean Marcus. Who is extremely overrated IMO.
yes, he takes to many plays off. Also the guy is huge but plays soft!

[Chargeroo]

If they mean Marcus McNeil, I can't see it. I said before that people are tabbing him for his numbers - huge body and good forty time, but he's not a player. He's below average at pass blocking and run blocking. A man that size should be able to pancake people but he can't make a tiny little hole for a RB. I think he and the guy from Miami, Winston, are way over-rated. I hope we find an OT during the FA period and fill in the line with experienced Tackles.

[mastershake]

Experienced tackles yes...not drafting one to learn behind the good vets would be a crime.

[Chargeroo]

Experienced tackles yes...not drafting one to learn behind the good vets would be a crime.I agree. Sign a FA that can start right away and sign a 2nd. or 3rd. rounder for the future.

I had hoped they could get a OT that was ready to start in the NFL via a first round pick but after seeing all of them in theses all-star games, I think Ferguson is the only one that can step right into the starting lineup and he'll be gone long before our pick at 19.

[SuperBowlBolts]

If they mean Marcus McNeil, I can't see it. I said before that people are tabbing him for his numbers - huge body and good forty time, but he's not a player. He's below average at pass blocking and run blocking. A man that size should be able to pancake people but he can't make a tiny little hole for a RB. I think he and the guy from Miami, Winston, are way over-rated. I hope we find an OT during the FA period and fill in the line with experienced Tackles.
Much agreed but i would like Scott if he is there. Or maybe trueblood in the later rounds.

[jupiter]

this may seem radical and not very AJ-like but i think we should trade future picks -- whatever it takes -- to the jets to get fergusen. a chance for a guy like him at LT is rare. plus, since rivers isn't going anywhere this year we will have him to trade to meet our needs in the future, so if we have to sell the future farm to get fergusen it won't hurt with the rivers ace in the hole.

[LarryAW]

Much agreed but i would like Scott if he is there. Or maybe trueblood in the later rounds.

#19? Between the Sporting News War Room, ESPN Draft Central, Scout.com, and NFL Draft Scout, one has Scott ranked the 5th overall OT, one the 6th overall OT, one the 7th overall OT, and the last the 8th overall OT (not in any particular order). Senior Bowl week analysis by one says he looks dominating one play, but is pushed around by a smaller, less talented DL the next. Of everything I've seen, he appears to have a fantastic upside, but, he isn't ready to start. Last year, the Chargers really liked V.J. They picked him in the 2nd round because they didn't think he'd be there when their 3rd round pick was up. The Chargers could be enthralled with Scott as much as a lot of you guys are. So, while I'm not sure the Chargers would take him with the 19th pick, I'm not sure they wouldn't move up earlier in the 2nd round to get him. This is listed at one of the sites: "As it stands right now, Scott is a bit of a risk-versus-reward prospect worth considering late in the second round or anywhere in the third round of the 2006 draft."

Please don't give me grief, because I'm just the messenger. After "Brick," who is an obvious standout to everyone, I have a truly hard time differentiating between the next 6 OT's. If you want a starter the 1st season,, I don't think you pick Scott. But, if you want to draft a back-up who would be dominant one day, then Scott appears to be the guy.

The draft is a long time away, and Free Agency will give us a clue as to what the Chargers will do in the draft. Neither FA nor the draft can get here soon enough for me.

[ChampCharger]

I think the strengths of our O-Line are:

LT: Oben
RG: Goff
RT: Olivea

Our pass protection was good. But
We need a center and guard who can create inside holes, and swing out in the sweep blocking schemes.

Center Kevin Mawae would almost be enough...we could then just draft a guard/tackle in the second or third round.

[JoeMcRugby]

#19? Between the Sporting News War Room, ESPN Draft Central, Scout.com, and NFL Draft Scout, one has Scott ranked the 5th overall OT, one the 6th overall OT, one the 7th overall OT, and the last the 8th overall OT (not in any particular order). Senior Bowl week analysis by one says he looks dominating one play, but is pushed around by a smaller, less talented DL the next. Of everything I've seen, he appears to have a fantastic upside, but, he isn't ready to start. Last year, the Chargers really liked V.J. They picked him in the 2nd round because they didn't think he'd be there when their 3rd round pick was up. The Chargers could be enthralled with Scott as much as a lot of you guys are. So, while I'm not sure the Chargers would take him with the 19th pick, I'm not sure they wouldn't move up earlier in the 2nd round to get him. This is listed at one of the sites: "As it stands right now, Scott is a bit of a risk-versus-reward prospect worth considering late in the second round or anywhere in the third round of the 2006 draft."

Please don't give me grief, because I'm just the messenger. After "Brick," who is an obvious standout to everyone, I have a truly hard time differentiating between the next 6 OT's. If you want a starter the 1st season,, I don't think you pick Scott. But, if you want to draft a back-up who would be dominant one day, then Scott appears to be the guy.

The draft is a long time away, and Free Agency will give us a clue as to what the Chargers will do in the draft. Neither FA nor the draft can get here soon enough for me.

Actually, the Chargers didn't have a third round pick last year. They had traded it to Tampa Bay for Keenan McCardell. But you're right: their second round pick was the last chance for them to get VJ.

I read that the Donks (and their fans) were upset when the Bolts selected VJ. They had their fingers crossed that they could pick him up with their third round pick.

[Chargeroo]

#19? Between the Sporting News War Room, ESPN Draft Central, Scout.com, and NFL Draft Scout, one has Scott ranked the 5th overall OT, one the 6th overall OT, one the 7th overall OT, and the last the 8th overall OT (not in any particular order). Senior Bowl week analysis by one says he looks dominating one play, but is pushed around by a smaller, less talented DL the next. Of everything I've seen, he appears to have a fantastic upside, but, he isn't ready to start. Last year, the Chargers really liked V.J. They picked him in the 2nd round because they didn't think he'd be there when their 3rd round pick was up. The Chargers could be enthralled with Scott as much as a lot of you guys are. So, while I'm not sure the Chargers would take him with the 19th pick, I'm not sure they wouldn't move up earlier in the 2nd round to get him. This is listed at one of the sites: "As it stands right now, Scott is a bit of a risk-versus-reward prospect worth considering late in the second round or anywhere in the third round of the 2006 draft."

Please don't give me grief, because I'm just the messenger. After "Brick," who is an obvious standout to everyone, I have a truly hard time differentiating between the next 6 OT's. If you want a starter the 1st season,, I don't think you pick Scott. But, if you want to draft a back-up who would be dominant one day, then Scott appears to be the guy.

The draft is a long time away, and Free Agency will give us a clue as to what the Chargers will do in the draft. Neither FA nor the draft can get here soon enough for me.I've looked hard at the OT's available in this draft because I see it as our biggest need and I think D'Brick is the only one that's ready to play LOT as a rookie. I think Winston and McNeil are way over-rated and I wouldn't take either of them until the fourth round - they are both a project and it's questionable if they'll ever make it in the NFL. I like Scott and Justice but I think they both need time on the bench, then another year or two at ROT before they can play LOT. I like the kid from LSU - Andrew Whitworth because I think he's good enough to start at ROT as a rookie and he has good feet so he could be moved to LOT later when needed. Another guy that looked pretty decent in the Senior Bowl was Ryan O'Callaghan of Cal., although his feet seem slow and he'll probably be a lifetime ROT, IMO. Still, he's a strong run blocker. All of that is my own opinion and I'm no scout but it is based off of what I saw with my own two eyes, not what some draft site thinks.

Overall, I hope they can sign a FA for LOT. Then they can take a rookie OT later in the draft for development and depth. Even if Oben is ready to play again we could certainly use a better backup and we could also move Oben over to ROT, thus allowing Olivea to move into the Guard spot. He'll be a very good Guard. That leaves Goff and Dielman to fight it out for the other Guard spot and the loser would be a big improvement to our depth.

[LarryAW]

Actually, the Chargers didn't have a third round pick last year. They had traded it to Tampa Bay for Keenan McCardell. But you're right: their second round pick was the last chance for them to get VJ.

I read that the Donks (and their fans) were upset when the Bolts selected VJ. They had their fingers crossed that they could pick him up with their third round pick.

Oops. I'll have to watch those "round" numbers. ;) Denver will be really upset if VJ breaks-out this year.

[laschwa]

i'm repeating myself from the superbowl gameday thread but i feel the point was lost on page 46 or something.

anyway, the most eye-opening stat i saw in the superbowl was that both superbowl teams had TWO probowl lineman.

we praise ben, we even praise hasselback, but we all know it's easier to play QB with probowl Olineman.

[Chargeroo]

i'm repeating myself from the superbowl gameday thread but i feel the point was lost on page 46 or something.

anyway, the most eye-opening stat i saw in the superbowl was that both superbowl teams had TWO probowl lineman.

we praise ben, we even praise hasselback, but we all know it's easier to play QB with probowl Olineman.It's easier to run too. Look at the Chiefs, there WR's are nothing special and yet there passing attack is one of the best - it's that o-line. When you look over the rest of our team you can't help but think we'd be the team to beat if only we had a strong o-line.

[SuperBowlBolts]

#19? Between the Sporting News War Room, ESPN Draft Central, Scout.com, and NFL Draft Scout, one has Scott ranked the 5th overall OT, one the 6th overall OT, one the 7th overall OT, and the last the 8th overall OT (not in any particular order). Senior Bowl week analysis by one says he looks dominating one play, but is pushed around by a smaller, less talented DL the next. Of everything I've seen, he appears to have a fantastic upside, but, he isn't ready to start. Last year, the Chargers really liked V.J. They picked him in the 2nd round because they didn't think he'd be there when their 3rd round pick was up. The Chargers could be enthralled with Scott as much as a lot of you guys are. So, while I'm not sure the Chargers would take him with the 19th pick, I'm not sure they wouldn't move up earlier in the 2nd round to get him. This is listed at one of the sites: "As it stands right now, Scott is a bit of a risk-versus-reward prospect worth considering late in the second round or anywhere in the third round of the 2006 draft."

Please don't give me grief, because I'm just the messenger. After "Brick," who is an obvious standout to everyone, I have a truly hard time differentiating between the next 6 OT's. If you want a starter the 1st season,, I don't think you pick Scott. But, if you want to draft a back-up who would be dominant one day, then Scott appears to be the guy.

The draft is a long time away, and Free Agency will give us a clue as to what the Chargers will do in the draft. Neither FA nor the draft can get here soon enough for me.
The only rookie i see starting at LT for any team is D'Brickashaw. I would take Scott but have him play RT his first year.

[flwelshman]

Runyan is done, and Philly will let him walk this year. Backus is someone who could help, even though he had somewhat of a down year this year. I do think the Lions will sign him though. Anyone from Miami or Tampa would be a regression backwards, as are the Atlanta FA's. Other than Backus, the only person on that list worth anything is LJ Shelton, who also is still young, a pretty good LT who had a very nice year, and Cleveland would like to keep him depending on the money. Also, if Simpson is gone when the Bolts pick, perhaps AJ should think about trading down a few spots with someone, and drafting Daryn Colledge from Boise State. Excellent and athletic LT who's a great pass blocker and plays with a mean streak. Sounds just like what the line needs, and it's highly unlikely he'll be there in the 2nd round.

[ptr77]

Jon Runyan UFA Eagles - Pro Bowl player several time but the Eagles won't let him go. He'd be nice to have though!

sorry, but you're wrong on this one, the guy is probably not going to be resigned by the eagles because he is older, slower, and i believe has been playing with some injuries. The guy is not the great rt he once was when he battled strahan twice a year and it was truly a battle unlike most rt's. the guys the chargers need to look at are:

Ephraim Salaam UFA Jaguars
Jeff Backus UFA Lions
L.J. Shelton UFA Browns
Seth Wand RFA Texans
Stocker McDougle UFA Dolphins
Todd Steussie UFA Buccaneers
Tom Ashworth UFA Patriots
Victor Riley UFA Texans

Backus will probably want too much money and is an avg lt (top 20), shelton is slightly overrated as well, wand played lt on one of the worst lines in the league but would probably be an ok rt, mcdougle is a true rt and might even be more suited to guard, Steussie has been compared to a turnstile at times but teams keep signing him and letting him start for a season so i really don't know. Ashworth is a guy that gets by on effort and determination, riley is another texan (worst line) and was a good player at one point. The chargers might need to draft a lt seeing as how these guys don't really inspire great blockers, my pick would be backus or salaam.

[ptr77]

this may seem radical and not very AJ-like but i think we should trade future picks -- whatever it takes -- to the jets to get fergusen. a chance for a guy like him at LT is rare. plus, since rivers isn't going anywhere this year we will have him to trade to meet our needs in the future, so if we have to sell the future farm to get fergusen it won't hurt with the rivers ace in the hole.


There is no such thing as a fool proof pick. robert gallery comes to mind, he was the greatest thing since sliced bread, i even heard more than 4 anylists say he would be a guaranteeed probowler for 10 seasons. That line has him, jake grove (very good center), sims, slaughter, and others that are over avg, but it sucks. Also dbrick has been said to lack the killer instinct (you know the meanness, the i want to put you in the dirt), and is barely over 300 pounds. I'm gonna go out on a limb and say that dbrick will be just like gallery, highly touted and nowhere to be seen his first 2 years.

[Chargeroo]

Even if I'm wrong about Runyon not being allowed to go by Philly, I don't think a RT would do us a lot of good. Since I wrote that last post I did read that the Eagles have two young Tackles that they think are ready to step in at RT, so you may be right, Runyon may be available. Still, I see Backus as our best hope even if he's high priced he's a good LT and he's young enough to fill that crucial role for us for several more years. When I look at the players available in this draft I think there are some good Tackles coming out but only one can be expected to start at LT as a rookie. If we could sign a guy like Backus now and perhaps draft a Tackle in in the third round for training, perhaps even good enough to start at RT and let Olivea move to Guard - that'd be sweet.

[ptr77]

Even if I'm wrong about Runyon not being allowed to go by Philly, I don't think a RT would do us a lot of good. Since I wrote that last post I did read that the Eagles have two young Tackles that they think are ready to step in at RT, so you may be right, Runyon may be available. Still, I see Backus as our best hope even if he's high priced he's a good LT and he's young enough to fill that crucial role for us for several more years. When I look at the players available in this draft I think there are some good Tackles coming out but only one can be expected to start at LT as a rookie. If we could sign a guy like Backus now and perhaps draft a Tackle in in the third round for training, perhaps even good enough to start at RT and let Olivea move to Guard - that'd be sweet.

Agree totally, infact i wish my giants could get Backus since our lt has a bad back and is a penalty machine, though when he's not getting penalties (like every important 3rd down or everytime the crowd is loud) he is top 16. Backus is a top 20 lt in this league and would be a good fit for the chargers. Drafting one like trueblood, or one in the second or third would be good too.

[RMANCIL]

It will be interesting to see if the Bolts sign a F.A. OT if they fail to land one then I think we will draft one in the top two rounds.

I like Scott and Whitworth and both maybe on the board in round one and one maybe on the board in round two.

Whitworth is all over the place based on most draft boards.

Based on what I have seen he maybe the best run/pass blocker in the draft.

Brick has the best pass blocking skills and the most upside and for that reason he will be gone in the top 5.
McNeil play left a lot to be desired , yet I think a lot of that is coaching.

Justice from USC is at this time the second ranked OT on most boards and while he played ROT in college most think he could move to LOT with out a problem. He however had some discipline issues which may knock him off the Bolts board and his run blocking isn't real special.

Darvin Joesph OG/OT is another very interesting player who is rated by most as the second best OG in this draft may be of interest as he can play every OL position and he is a very good blocker in space.

He would go very high if not for his wing span at 6'3" he lacks ideal size and as such he will fall to late first or down to second round in this draft he does meet one important trait that Smith covets "football player".

He is a gamer another words.

[JoeMcRugby]

With Chris Samuels having an $11 million cap figure for 2006, it's not inconceivable that he could be released on March 3rd.
_____________________________________

How would you like to be Eric Schaffer, the cap man for the Washington Redskins (http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/teams/page/WAS)? Your boss is the combustible Dan Snyder and your cap is a mess, so much so that two cap experts from other teams who looked at it say it's as bad as they have seen.

We pity poor Schaffer, who isn't to blame. It's not his fault Snyder throws money around as if he prints it, snubbing the reality that cap jail will eventually swallow his team whole.

"I'm glad I'm not Eric," said one of the cap experts. "That thing is a mess."

According to NFLPA figures, the Redskins have $115.4 million committed in salary for their top 51 players in 2006. The cap is expected to be $92 to $95 million. That means they have to trim $20 million or so. And that's not counting the $2 million or so the team will need to sign its rookies (thankfully, they don't have a first-round pick to pay, or that would be higher).

The Redskins have done a decent job trimming their cap down in recent years, but this time it might not be possible -- certainly not without a new collective bargaining agreement. A new agreement could help relieve some of the cap problems, but even with one, the Redskins face a daunting task.

"If they reduced everybody to a veteran minimum, and that won't happen, they'd still be $4 million over the cap," said one of the cap experts. "That's before cutting anybody."

So how did it get this bad? The Redskins have paid out big money deals under Snyder, and some of them have blown up in the team's face, leading to the chase factor. You chase bad deals with more bad deals to compensate.

Thus, they have trouble.

When room got tight in the past, they extended players' deals to create room, spreading bonus amortization out over the years. Eventually, though, it becomes time to pay the piper.

That time is now.

We would liken the Redskins' plight to a family that keeps putting off paying the credit card balance by paying minimums.

"All the deals, all the overpaying for years and moving money into future years has caught up to them," said the cap expert. "Last year they had to move $7 million in money into future years. That catches up to you at some point."

One cap expert said the Redskins might be forced to let good players walk, and could be forced to field a team with as many as 20 rookies -- or more.

If there's a new CBA, the Redskins might be able to get out from under the cap troubles a little easier, although it still will be a lot of work.

"Can you imagine the dynamics of what Schaffer is going through?" one cap expert said. "He has to go to Snyder and Joe Gibbs and tell them they have to cut players. That has to be ugly."

Cap hell. It's as ugly as it gets in the NFL, and it's a jail that's hard to get paroled out of.

Still think the Redskins will be playoff contenders?

Gibbs has his work cut out for him this season. Maybe auto racing never looked so good.
http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/story/9244108

[56lightsout56]

I like the idea of trading down and drafting Colledge. A.J. isnt oppposed to that, though the last time he did missed on Troy P. He also likes the mean streak guys. Olivea at LG with Goff and Diehlman as backup is not bad. Just need a LT. I hope the Brees Deal works out, but if it doesnt....what about John Kitna as a "caretaker" ??? been around, get some protection for him and he's a solid backup.

[BoltsfanNYC]

good Idea... if brees falls through... Kitna is a good guy and can play... But I think Rivers.... is our man. and brees will be back on ESPN this morning they said brees isnt gonna get a better offer... and he wants to be here.

[BoltsfanNYC]

okI will address the question.
Backus is the class of the tackles available. He then a few others are ok. Runyan... would allow olivea to go to guard his natural position where he could become a probowl type player, but never at tackle/ that said I would still draft a Tackle in one of the top two rounds... there are 9 guys at tackle in the top 100 Players which means... they will mostly begone by the time we pick in the 3rd round forcing us to go 1 or 2nd round T...by doing this we will be in great shape..ie sign a FA tackle... draft one and DO the same next year. we would in essence transition into good young line while having solid depth. roman probably reties after this next year. so we need to get a replacement ready.

[56lightsout56]

i forgot...sign Lecharles Bently also. cant have enough depth. if anybody is interested take a look at the article from a pittsburghlive.com site. they rip Randle El in it. but it does have some points. And no I was not interested in signing him anyway. would rather have Moulds.

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/tribune-review/sports/s_425607.html

[robsweetin]

Fabini just became one of the first cap casualties, released this morning from the New York Jets. Anyone know anything about this guy? All I know is he's a vet, and it looks like he's coming off an injury. In 8 NFL seasons, he's started 114 games. That's both a lot of mileage and a lot of experience. At 31, he might not be what we're looking for to upgrade the OL. Then again, he might be a stop gap / depth player until a draftee is ready to step up. In the spirit of 'line 'em up three deep and let 'em compete', he might be the kind of old pro that could improve the competition on the OL - if the price is right.

Thoughts?

[Chargeroo]

Fabini would be a good add. He's a better run blocker than Oben is and about the same as Roman in pass blocking. Adding him would let them move Oben to ROT and move Olivea to Guard - instant improvement at both Tackle and Guard!
Good news -
I read that the Skins may have to cut Samuels for cap reasons.
Bad news -
Also read the Lions will tag Backus.

A lot of teams are waiting to pounce if the Saints let Bentley go - if we can get him, it won't be cheap since 6/7 teams are thought to be interested in him. He's real good though, so it may be deemed worth the expense by the Bolts.

[Shamrock]

Fabini had a couple injuries this last season, and ended up on IR with a torn pectoral muscle. It would depend on his health - first and foremost.

I saw somewhere that the Jets have put Mawae on the trading block. Rumor has it that the Chargers put Sammy Davis on the trading block. Swap?

[BoltsfanNYC]

Move him to Right tackle? or Oben... or insurance at left still drafting a t in rounds 1 or 2

[BIG GUNS]

Worth a shot if we can get him for a reasonable price. He can compete at both tackle spots with Olivea and Oben, but I would not give him a huge contract.

[BoltsfanNYC]

cool, my thoughts too. I think he is better than olivea and this would allow olivea to move to Guard!

[SDBOLTZSD]

he is damage. thats why the jets let him go. why would we wanna pick up an old OL player from a team that let all their QB get cracked and hurt. not a pretty picture

[Tycebrew]

Fabini would be a good add. He's a better run blocker than Oben is and about the same as Roman in pass blocking. Adding him would let them move Oben to ROT and move Olivea to Guard - instant improvement at both Tackle and Guard!
Good news -
I read that the Skins may have to cut Samuels for cap reasons.
Bad news -
Also read the Lions will tag Backus.

A lot of teams are waiting to pounce if the Saints let Bentley go - if we can get him, it won't be cheap since 6/7 teams are thought to be interested in him. He's real good though, so it may be deemed worth the expense by the Bolts.


I heard the same thing about Samuels too Roo. Im assuming as many as 5-6 teams would want him as well. We have to be aggresive to get him or Bentley.

[ChargerCohen]

Getting Samuels would be a serious coup. Moreso than Bentley, and getting them both, while next to impossible, would seriously force me to dance around in a fit of joy. in public. naked.

[56lightsout56]

I like Samuels also. He's got a mean streak in him too which fits their player type. Been checking the Saints offical site, no news on Bentley yet. I'll take it as a good sign. Bentley's F/T will run almost 7 mill for 1 year. whats it gonna take to sign him? 3 yr 20 million??? Teams usually lump all linemen together

[riverhead]

Fabini would be a good add. He's a better run blocker than Oben is and about the same as Roman in pass blocking. Adding him would let them move Oben to ROT and move Olivea to Guard - instant improvement at both Tackle and Guard!
Good news -
I read that the Skins may have to cut Samuels for cap reasons.
Bad news -
Also read the Lions will tag Backus.

A lot of teams are waiting to pounce if the Saints let Bentley go - if we can get him, it won't be cheap since 6/7 teams are thought to be interested in him. He's real good though, so it may be deemed worth the expense by the Bolts.

Why though did the Jets release him? Was it related to his contract. $$?
If Fabini is healthy I would sure like to see us grab him.

[JoeMcRugby]

I like Samuels also. He's got a mean streak in him too which fits their player type. Been checking the Saints offical site, no news on Bentley yet. I'll take it as a good sign. Bentley's F/T will run almost 7 mill for 1 year. whats it gonna take to sign him? 3 yr 20 million??? Teams usually lump all linemen together
Actually, Bentley's cap figure will be much lower than $7 million for 2006.

For example, say he gets a signing bonus (the only guaranteed money in an NFL contract) of $12 million contained in a four year, $28 million contract.

In such a structure, his signing bonus would be spread over four seasons - thus, his bonus counts $3 million for 2006.

Since he has $12 million deposited in his bank account, his 2006 salary would be around $1 million. His subsequent three years in salary would average $5 million per season.

In this example, he has a 4 year $28 million contract equaling $7 million per year average, but his 2006 cap charge would only be $4 million.

Again, just an example and don't take the numbers that I've thrown out as being strict figures, but it shows that you don't take the value of a contract and simply divide it by the number of years the contract runs to figure out the cap numbers on a contract. :Bolt:

Edit: I misinterpreted your $7 million figure. I thought you meant the first year of the contract would count $7 million if the Chargers signed him to a contract averaging $7 million per season. But I'll leave my example up as an example.

BTW The signing bonus I put up - $12 million - might be enough to attract him. :)

[JoeMcRugby]

Why though did the Jets release him? Was it related to his contract. $$?
If Fabini is healthy I would sure like to see us grab him.

The Jets are in that netherworld called "cap hell".

They're reportedly releasing Fabini, 6-time Pro Bowler Mawae and numerous other veterans in order to shed enough $$$ to get under the cap.

A cautionary tale for those who advocate "just giving the player what he wants" in contract negotiations. ;)

[SuperBowlBolts]

he is damage. thats why the jets let him go. why would we wanna pick up an old OL player from a team that let all their QB get cracked and hurt. not a pretty picture
that would be a living nightmare

[Chargeroo]

The Jets are in that netherworld called "cap hell".

They're reportedly releasing Fabini, 6-time Pro Bowler Mawae and numerous other veterans in order to shed enough $$$ to get under the cap.

A cautionary tale for those who advocate "just giving the player what he wants" in contract negotiations. ;)In spite of numerous examples of this, we still have fans saying the Chargers are cheap. :mad:

[cstu]

he is damage. thats why the jets let him go. why would we wanna pick up an old OL player from a team that let all their QB get cracked and hurt. not a pretty picture
He's really a RT but had to play LT for the Jets and would be an improvement over Olivea. The Jets released him because of his cap number, but he's still a good RT. Don't forget that Oben was considered an old OL player before the Chargers signed him (Oben was 32 and Fabini will be 32).

Getting him, a LT in the 1st round (McNeill or Scott) and Bentley (please...) or Mawae at center would give the Chargers a championship OL.

[ghost]

Others have throw out Jon Runyan and Jeff Backus, I like Fabini. Curtis Martin has had a great career in New York behind Fabini's blocking, he'd be a great signing and Olivea could slide inside to OG and also be great depth at tackle.

[RMANCIL]

L.J. Shelton is another to watch closely he should be cheaper than Fabini and be able to offer solid LOT play.

[Boltz2175]

I like to grab either Runyan or Salaam...two trustworthy veterans!

[robsweetin]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2341906

Looks like Backus is now off the market.

http://www.sptimes.com/2006/02/23/Bucs/Rice_seems_likely_to_.shtml

Former 1st round pick T Kenyatta Walker is likely to become a free agent.

Along with Fabini and Bentley, Walker will be one of the top OL to hit free agency.

[Tycebrew]

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2341906

Looks like Backus is now off the market.

http://www.sptimes.com/2006/02/23/Bucs/Rice_seems_likely_to_.shtml

Former 1st round pick T Kenyatta Walker is likely to become a free agent.

Along with Fabini and Bentley, Walker will be one of the top OL to hit free agency.


Rats!!! I was hoping they would let him go so they could draft another WR. :p

[loweezy]

yah... i was kinda expecting backus to get the tag... it was said that the lions were more insistent on retaining him now that they've decided to go with joey harrington another year

[Shamrock]

I know he's not a tackle but .....

Seahawks | Hutchinson to receive transition tag
Thu, 23 Feb 2006 10:09:41 -0800

Mike Sando, of the Tacoma News Tribune, reports the Seattle Seahawks have informed OLG Steve Hutchinson that he will have the team's transition tag placed on him. The team is expected to make an announcement soon.

[loweezy]

that brought a smile to my face. :)

bentley, hutchinson would be gems to get (either one)

runyan would be a nice pick up as well.

[56lightsout56]

Chris Hope wasnt Tagged by the Steelers, another one to go after. what about Kenard Lang just released by the Browns. Have him bulk back up and go for more Depth at DE?

[Shamrock]

Eagles | Team will let Runyan shop around; but will he be back?
Thu, 23 Feb 2006 18:47:34 -0800

Bob Brookover, of the Philadelphia Inquirer, reports the Philadelphia Eagles apparently will allow OT Jon Runyan to shop around in the free-agent market to see what he's worth and then decide if they want to bring him back. Runyan is on record as saying he has not heard from the Eagles about a new contract since the season ended on New Year's Day. "A lot of people need a right tackle," Runyan told the Delaware County Daily Times. "And, by the looks of it, the Eagles are going to need one. I don't know what they're going to do. I haven't heard from them." It is possible that the Eagles will use their first-round pick on an offensive lineman. If the Eagles decide they can part with Runyan, it will be a huge risk and the end of an era along the offensive line. Runyan was the Eagles' first significant free agent signing of the Andy Reid era.