LeCharles Bentley

[bigbolthead21]

This year, our offensive line was very inconsistent. Injuries were a big part of our inconsistency. The Chargers should look to upgrade the left tackle position, the left gaurd position, and the center position. Nick Hardwick seemed to be overpowered many times and so we need someone bigger and more physical. We can get someone in the draft but I think it will be better to get someone through free agency who start right away and that someone is LeCharles Bentley, the center from the New Orleans Saints. He looks like a huge upgrade over Hardwick.

"Bentley has good size at 6'2, 313, but it better known for his quickness. Quick footwork gets him out of his stance, and out blocking linebackers when necessary. His is lithe and swift off the snap, and is the rare center who can get out and pull. For all of his size, he does tend to get pushed around by very physical nose tackles, as his slight lack of lower body strength keeps him from maintaining position against a fierce bull rush. However, Bentley is tenacious and fiesty, and will not give up even when he appears to be overmatched. He is smart and consistent, and makes good adjustments at the line. Only 26, Bentley is better when he can get out and move, unblocked, and would fit best with a team that can surround him with Pro Bowl caliber players."- FootballsFuture.com

I think he can solidify the interior and then we just need someone to solidify the edges. I strongly believe that AJ should go after him in FA,. and hopefully sign him. What do you guys think? Holla back!

[Podium]

I really like the idea of Bentley. There are news reports that the Chargers were talking to John (Jack) Henry about being the new OL coach. He was the OL coach for the Saints last year, so he could lure Bentley.

Bentley's versatility is what I like the most. He can play all 3 interior line positions. But, I believe that Cleveland and Cincinatti will fight hard for his services, seeing how he is from Cleveland (Ohio).

[BoltsfanNYC]

san diego has better weather and if we get his coach... 50-50 we can get him... boiling it down to us and NO!!!

[hambone]

do we really need to spend big money on him thoough? hardwick may not be the most consistent but he's one of our best and he's young and getting better, no need to fix somtehing that doesnt need fixing

[BoltsfanNYC]

our center is serviceable... this means backup he is too light... line collapsed on a lot of plays. not just him.. but BENTLY and mawae... would provide... push at the line.. ie 4-1 QB sneak! and he is the anchor and line captain... hardwick need to put on 15 pounds... and will be a good one in about 1-2 years... after mawae is ready to be his backup... I would rahter sign top Tackle then top center... dont get me wrong... but I; do want major oline overhaul!

[Podium]

Bentley doesn't just play center, if I'm not mistaken he made the ProBowl as a guard.

[BoltsfanNYC]

He could start at either for US! he and anyone of 5 FA tackles would be huge upgrades!! then we can move olivea back to guard!! and ROCK ON!

[Podium]

The thing about adding Bentley is that he adds depth. If he starts at center, then Hardwick backs up at Center, so if a guard goes down, then Bentley slides over and Hardwick steps in.

If he starts at guard, and Hardwick gets injured, then Bentley slides into the middle and Dielman steps up.

Of course, this is with the current line. There will probably be a tackle added so that Olivea can move inside.

But, the scenarios I mentioned are just to point out how Bentley improves the line in more ways than one.

[BoltsfanNYC]

good call.. bently for this reason should be a charger top 3 FA consideration.

I have been thinking about this.. a lot... if we chose one side of the ball to improve via FA I think it is O! Here is why.... Our d is improving our Oline is sad... and WR takes 2-3 years to learn... that said..

FA tackle- Bently and Randle El or Wayne- and then draft the rest...
my contention is this... with the new Line we protect our investment... either brees or rivers! open more lines for LT and give OUR QB more time for GATES-TMAC and #1WR to get open for 40+ yard strikes!! this keeps our secondary off the field! we score more... and win defence gets better each week. and we go baby...we showed we can Beat people with our D see first 52 min vs everyone in first 8 games of the season! last eight.. no fonoti-oben- and nothing to play for last 2 weeks our worst loses.

[Podium]

good call.. bently for this reason should be a charger top 3 FA consideration.

I have been thinking about this.. a lot... if we chose one side of the ball to improve via FA I think it is O! Here is why.... Our d is improving our Oline is sad... and WR takes 2-3 years to learn... that said..

FA tackle- Bently and Randle El or Wayne- and then draft the rest...
my contention is this... with the new Line we protect our investment... either brees or rivers! open more lines for LT and give OUR QB more time for GATES-TMAC and #1WR to get open for 40+ yard strikes!! this keeps our secondary off the field! we score more... and win defence gets better each week. and we go baby...we showed we can Beat people with our D see first 52 min vs everyone in first 8 games of the season! last eight.. no fonoti-oben- and nothing to play for last 2 weeks our worst loses.

Here's another thing I haven't heard mentioned. The Chargers don't run the screen play too much because the our interior lineman are not great in space. To be honest, I haven't watched enough of Bentley to know how he is in space, but I think Olivea is our best lineman in space. So say we sign/draft a tackle. Bentley plays center, and Olivea plays guard. IF Bentley can work well in space we can start throwing those screen passes a little more and that's a way to solve one problem that everybody talks about: The defense having 8 men in the box. Calling screens when the QB senses the blitz (and I thought Brees did a very good job of recognizing the blitz last year) is a very way to get the defense to back off. We all know that LT is one of the best receiving RBs in the game, so getting him the ball on screen passes again would be great. And with lineman who work well in space, we can run more power toss plays.

Power 90 is a play that KC loves to run and where LJ makes a lot of his yards. If they can get LT into space with blockers more, he won't be trying to find that crack in the line all the time, and will be trying to read where to cut the ball up field. And Ty Law will tell you that LT's cut is deadly. Oh, you can ask that Raider too, Brayton I think his name was? I was too busy watching his ankles, and not his number.

[Brother Wolf]

I think it would be good to have a Chuck on the team! :) AJ....give us Chuck!!!

[Podium]

I think it would be good to have a Chuck on the team! :) AJ....give us Chuck!!!

haha LeChuck

[BoltsfanNYC]

good stuff... Get bently... a huge upgrade and depth...

[Brother Wolf]

HA!!! That's GREAT...LeChuck!!! That would TOTALLY have to be his nick name if he were to ever come here...you guys would have to take a big sign to a game that said that & have a big monster guy w/ his hands up in the air like...grrrrr!!!! LOL

[BoltsfanNYC]

lets get a Tackle and bently and wayne or randle el!

[WakkaWakkaWakka]

Bentley would be an excellent pickup for us. He will be coveted during free agency however which is what I'm afraid of, there are quite a few other teams interested in him.

[mastershake]

We did just sign the former Offensive line coach of the Saints...maybe that makes San Diego attractive to LeChuck.

[bigbolthead21]

Bentley would be an excellent pickup for us. He will be coveted during free agency however which is what I'm afraid of, there are quite a few other teams interested in him.
I read somewhere that he is highly interested in playing for his home team... the Browns.

[CBO]

This is a guy that I would be willing to pay alot for. He is young, big, and can play 3 different positions. He could be the start to a solid foundation. He will be worth the money.

[Ikeman83]

I don't see him going to the Browns... they aren't going to do anything this year.

[Dojo]

Quick question...Didn't Mike Goff play a lil bit of RT in his career? How about swapping Goff and Olivea's position? That would give us the ability to pull our guards and would give us a mauler RT. If Goff could lose a few lbs I think he would make an excelent RT. He may just have to get use to the position. Also, if Roman can't recover in time then we may have to move Shane to LT so I think that could be an option this offseason. Also Jack liked big tackles in NO.

[Ikeman83]

I had never heard about him playing RT... that could change the whole face of our lineup... and I would be very happy about that.

[Podium]

RT Jamaal Brown 6-6 313
RG Montrae Holland (RFA) 6-2 322
C LeChuck Bentley 6-2 313
LG Kendyl Jacox 6-2 325
LT Wayne Gandy 6-4 315

RT Shane Olivea 6-4 312
RG Mike Goff 6-5 311
C Nick Hardwick 6-4 295
LG Kris Dielman 6-4 310
LT Roman Oben 6-4 305

New Orlean's lightest guy is heavier than our heaviest guy (listed). Just a nice little observation. Let's see what management does to add beef to that O-line.

[SuperBowlBolts]

RT Jamaal Brown 6-6 313
RG Montrae Holland (RFA) 6-2 322
C LeChuck Bentley 6-2 313
LG Kendyl Jacox 6-2 325
LT Wayne Gandy 6-4 315

RT Shane Olivea 6-4 312
RG Mike Goff 6-5 311
C Nick Hardwick 6-4 295
LG Kris Dielman 6-4 310
LT Roman Oben 6-4 305

New Orlean's lightest guy is heavier than our heaviest guy (listed). Just a nice little observation. Let's see what management does to add beef to that O-line.
our guys need some muscle weight along with some strength

[Dojo]

our guys need some muscle weight along with some strength More strenth and fitness. I don't mind if the tackle is 290lbs if he has long arms and could move. If he could keep defenders away from his body and keep control he'll make for a good OL. If he's 340lbs, but 6'7 and all of the above then he's a pro bowler. That's what we've been missing, is that big, athletic olineman that is just as good in space as being engaged. The best speciman to come out of college right now would be Brick. He's too good to pass up and, frankly, I think if the Jets grab him at 4 I would be surprised. He's by far a top 3 pick. In my opinion V. Young will slip to around 6 and Brick will be a top 3. He's a once-every-8-year tackle, meaning you don't see them much. I'm not saying go after Brick but we need to find the diamond in the rough that we could build our Oline after. I think a good tackle that would be a diamond in the rough that we could mold is Stacy Andrews. He has all the tools and would fit in with Jacks requirments with olineman. I liked him in college and always thought if we could manage to snag him he could be a pro bowler down the line. Just a thought.

But I'll be happy if we can get Le'Chuck

[Podium]

More strenth and fitness. I don't mind if the tackle is 290lbs if he has long arms and could move. If he could keep defenders away from his body and keep control he'll make for a good OL. If he's 340lbs, but 6'7 and all of the above then he's a pro bowler. That's what we've been missing, is that big, athletic olineman that is just as good in space as being engaged. The best speciman to come out of college right now would be Brick. He's too good to pass up and, frankly, I think if the Jets grab him at 4 I would be surprised. He's by far a top 3 pick. In my opinion V. Young will slip to around 6 and Brick will be a top 3. He's a once-every-8-year tackle, meaning you don't see them much. I'm not saying go after Brick but we need to find the diamond in the rough that we could build our Oline after. I think a good tackle that would be a diamond in the rough that we could mold is Stacy Andrews. He has all the tools and would fit in with Jacks requirments with olineman. I liked him in college and always thought if we could manage to snag him he could be a pro bowler down the line. Just a thought.

But I'll be happy if we can get Le'Chuck

Is that Shawn Andrews brother?

[Dojo]

Is that Shawn Andrews brother?
yes sir. just as talented but bigger and quicker on his feet. He has a history of being injured.

[Podium]

Yeah, I remember hearing about Andrews' brother when Shawn Andrews was drafted. I had totally forgotten about him till you brought him up though. Any further info on him? Know where he's projected to be drafted? Mid-rounder?

[SuperBowlBolts]

yes sir. just as talented but bigger and quicker on his feet. He has a history of being injured.
gah sounded good until the history of being injuried....

[BoltsaremyGod]

Yeah, I remember hearing about Andrews' brother when Shawn Andrews was drafted. I had totally forgotten about him till you brought him up though. Any further info on him? Know where he's projected to be drafted? Mid-rounder?

Stacy Andrews plays for the Bengals. He is their back up right tackle. He is not a free agent.

[Podium]

Ooooh my bad. Don't I feel like an A.. now. Thanks for clearing that up for me.

[Brother Wolf]

Hopefully our SB potential & the fact that we have "Jack" will help persuade "LeChuck?" :)

[Dojo]

Stacy Andrews plays for the Bengals. He is their back up right tackle. He is not a free agent.
i know. the bengals got him in the 4th round, i think. That was a steal considering this guys potential. He may actually become a cap casualty this year. I just threw a name out there that I liked. I'm sure people have names that they'de like to have. Andrews and Andy Katzenmoyer were two of my more favorite college players to watch. Even if they don't have pro success they were fun to watch for me. Fortunatly Andrews is still in the league.

[Chargeroo]

I truly think we need to get a LOT from the Free Agent pool because out of the draft only D'Brick will be able to start at LOT right away.

I'm hoping we can get one of these -

Jeff Backus UFA Lions OLT-5 year vet and 80 starts. I liked this guy coming out of Michigan 5 years ago. Might be $$$$.

L.J. Shelton UFA Browns OLT-7yr vet. 93 starts and 98 games played

Tom Ashworth UFA Patriots backup OLT-4 yrs.30 starts, 37 games.

Mike Pearson UFA Jaguars OLT-4 yrs. 33 starts and 40 games

[JoeMcRugby]

i know. the bengals got him in the 4th round, i think. That was a steal considering this guys potential. He may actually become a cap casualty this year. I just threw a name out there that I liked. I'm sure people have names that they'de like to have. Andrews and Andy Katzenmoyer were two of my more favorite college players to watch. Even if they don't have pro success they were fun to watch for me. Fortunatly Andrews is still in the league.

A fourth round pick from two years ago a "cap casualty"? :confused:

Fourth round picks from two years ago make little more than the league minimum. That's about $350,000 for 2006.

If Stacy Andrews gets cut by the Bengals, it's because he isn't good enough to stay on their roster.

[LTfan4life]

http://neworleanssaints.com/photos/roster/players/Bentley_LeCharles.jpg

Personal Info

College: Ohio State
NFL Exp.: 5
Height: 6-2
Weight: 313
Born: 11/7/1979
Acquired: D2-02
Pos.: C/OG



PRO

Career Stats

His combination of hard-nosed play, gritty temperament and polished blocking techniques has sparked Bentley's rise to emerge as one of the NFL's top interior linemen in just three seasons. Among the club's strongest players, he made a successful switch to center last season, his college position, handling all line calls and adjustments. Has started all 43 games he has played in since arriving in New Orleans as a second-round pick in 2002, including all 16 games in 2004. Pro Bowl pick in 2003 at guard was a near-unanimous choice for NFL All-Rookie honors in 2002. Bentley was selected as the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year by Sports Illustrated that season.

2004 - Started all 16 games for the first time...Took over as the first team center in training camp, his college position, and made quick conversion, becoming one of the unit's leaders...Voted as an alternate to the Pro Bowl.

2003 - Started the first 13 games at RG and was the foundation of the offensive line before being placed on injured reserve, Dec. 27, with left knee sprain. Injury required off-season surgery to repair the damaged ligaments...Suffered knee sprain in the third quarter vs. Indianapolis, Sept. 28, but returned to action the following week...Suffered left knee sprain vs. Tampa Bay, Dec. 7, in the third quarter and was inactive the next week vs. New York Giants...Placed on injured reserve, Dec. 27...Voted to the Pro Bowl the following week...Key part of an offensive line that helped RB Deuce McAllister post nine-straight 100-yard performances and 1,641 yards on the season.

2002 - Started 14 games at RG and thrived as part of a unit that helped RB Deuce McAllister notch eight 100-yard games and the second-highest rushing total in franchise history (1,388 yards). Offensive line also protected QB Aaron Brooks as he set a club record with 27 TD passes...Showed no rookie jitters in first NFL contest despite lining up against All-Pro DT Warren Sapp in opening-day victory at Tampa Bay, Sept. 8. Bentley helped limit Sapp to three tackles...Continued his consistent play throughout the season, bouncing back from a sprained right ankle suffered in the first quarter at Carolina, Nov. 10, that sidelined the rookie at Atlanta, Nov. 17, and vs. Cleveland, Nov. 24.



Career Transactions

Placed on Reserve/Injured (knee), 12/27/03; Signed by Saints to three-year contract, 7/27/03; Drafted by the Saints in the second round (44th overall) of the 2002 NFL Draft.



Honors

2003: Pro Bowl (did not participate because of knee injury); 2002: Sports Illustrated Offensive Rookie of the Year; Pro Football Weekly All-Rookie.



College

A three-year starter and four-year letterman at Ohio State...Moved into starting center slot for the Buckeyes as a junior in 2000, when he was named second-team All-Big Ten by league's coaches and media...As a senior, Bentley played every snap and was named the recipient of the Rimington Award, given to the nation's top center, as well as receiving consensus All-American and unanimous All-Big Ten honors. Also named Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year...Earned Player of the Game honors after posting 20 knockdowns against UCLA...Only true freshman offensive lineman who was not redshirted and he appeared in all 12 games...Human development and family science major.



Personal

Attended St. Ignatius (Cleveland) HS...Three-year starter who really turned heads as a senior...All-State selection at tackle, but also started at guard and center...Served as a guest chef at Bella Luna restaurant following a minicamp last year and also has performed cooking demonstrations at local restaurants Cobalt and Fausto's...Full name: LeCharles Vernon Bentley...Born Nov. 7, 1979 in Cleveland, Ohio.

[pete985]

Just found this article saying he's prob gonna leave the Saints

http://www.2theadvocate.com/sports/saints/2244517.html

[SuperBowlBolts]

Just found this article saying he's prob gonna leave the Saints

http://www.2theadvocate.com/sports/saints/2244517.html
i sure hope he gets to test FA with us =)

[pete985]

i sure hope he gets to test FA with us =)

Same here, he'd be an upgrade at any of the 3 interior spots. I don't think there's gonna be any shortage of interest in him tho, so my main fear is that someone is going to offer a riduculous deal that AJ (probably sensibly) won't choose to match.

[SuperBowlBolts]

Same here, he'd be an upgrade at any of the 3 interior spots. I don't think there's gonna be any shortage of interest in him tho, so my main fear is that someone is going to offer a riduculous deal that AJ (probably sensibly) won't choose to match.
yup but we do have his old o-line coach so that may play in as a factor.

[Chargeroo]

The article also said the Saints may use the franchise or transition tag on him, so they haven't decided yet if they'll let him test the market. He'd be a good add though. Our biggest need for the o-line is at LOT though. The uncertainty of Obens foot injury and his age make that position a top priority. Can we afford a FA Center and OT? I don't know the answer but it would make for an immediate upgrade.

[ChampCharger]

Bentley would be a GREAT pick up. He may fit our running style better than Mawae.

However our Left Tackle in Roman Oben is pretty darn solid if you ask me.

We need a Right Tackle and Left Guard.

[Chargeroo]

Bentley would be a GREAT pick up. He may fit our running style better than Mawae.

However our Left Tackle in Roman Oben is pretty darn solid if you ask me.

We need a Right Tackle and Left Guard.You must have missed the article that said Roman Obens return is uncertain? It said his foot injury is much worse than originally known. You're right, if he heels up and comes back, he's a very decent LOT. However, factor in the bad news regrading his injury and the fact that he's 35 years old and I think finding a LOT is our most important off season job. Even if Roman Oben is back and fully recovered, it's time to start training a replacement.

[Ikeman83]

You must have missed the article that said Roman Obens return is uncertain? It said his foot injury is much worse than originally known. You're right, if he heels up and comes back, he's a very decent LOT. However, factor in the bad news regrading his injury and the fact that he's 35 years old and I think finding a LOT is our most important off season job. Even if Roman Oben is back and fully recovered, it's time to start training a replacement.

Would you rather see this done in FA or through the draft? If through FA... who? (I know it's way early, but of the people whose contracts are coming up, did you have any ideas?)

[ChampCharger]

I think there are a lot of good tackles in this years draft...it goes pretty deep...

I like John Runyan in FA. We could go either way. But if it's the draft it shouldn't be too high of a pick because young O-Lineman aren't normally as good as vets.

[SuperBowlBolts]

I think there are a lot of good tackles in this years draft...it goes pretty deep...

I like John Runyan in FA. We could go either way. But if it's the draft it shouldn't be too high of a pick because young O-Lineman aren't normally as good as vets.
Yeah, but the quality of linemen in the first rounds is much better then the quality in the later rounds just like in any position. I would much rather get a FA who isnt old and has experience at LT because LT is the hardest position to play on the line and i dont want to throw a rookie in there unless its D'Brickashaw. I would much rather have the rookie play RT for a year before moving him to LT.

[Chargeroo]

Would you rather see this done in FA or through the draft? If through FA... who? (I know it's way early, but of the people whose contracts are coming up, did you have any ideas?)I think D'Brickshaw Ferguson is the only OT in this draft that will be able to step in at LOT as a rookie. A couple others could be moved there after a couple of years as a ROT. So, feeling that our need may be urgent due to Obens foot injury, I'd like to see them get a FA for that spot. I like Jeff Backus, UFA Lions - 5 year starter at Left Tackle - still has a lot of good years left at age 28. He's never missed a start. Could be just what we need to upgrade our line. Runyon is the best but also the most expensive by a lot. Of course, all of the good ones may be signed to a new contract by their present team long before we can even talk to them. FA period starts on March 3.

Who do you prefer?

[SuperBowlBolts]

I think D'Brickshaw Ferguson is the only OT in this draft that will be able to step in at LOT as a rookie. A couple others could be moved there after a couple of years as a ROT. So, feeling that our need may be urgent due to Obens foot injury, I'd like to see them get a FA for that spot. I like Jeff Backus, UFA Lions - 5 year starter at Left Tackle - still has a lot of good years left at age 28. He's never missed a start. Could be just what we need to upgrade our line. Runyon is the best but also the most expensive by a lot. Of course, all of the good ones may be signed to a new contract by their present team long before we can even talk to them. FA period starts on March 3.

Who do you prefer?
i also like Backus, i think if we can pick him up we should pick up a RT in the draft then move olivea to guard and let goff and dielmen fight for the other G spot unless of course we pick up Bentley.

[Podium]

This is what Bentley said about Henry in an article on the Charger front page:

“Jack was a great coach,” Bentley said. “Most importantly, he was a better person. He was the type of coach that as a player you really wanted to play well for. The better you played, the better he looked. You never wanted to make him look bad, because he was such a great person and he really wanted you to do well. You always wanted to make him proud.”
Bentley was quick to credit Henry for the success that he experienced as a player. The former Ohio State Buckeye enjoyed Henry’s style and even-keel temperament.
“Jack is kind of a throwback, yet he still is up on the times as far as how to deal with players,” Bentley said. “He treats you as a man. He knows that it’s an intense game and he expects a lot out of you, but he never, ever would dog cuss you under any circumstances. You knew what you would get everyday with Jack. Good or bad, win or lose, you would know what you were going to get.”

[Chargeroo]

This is what Bentley said about Henry in an article on the Charger front page:

“Jack was a great coach,” Bentley said. “Most importantly, he was a better person. He was the type of coach that as a player you really wanted to play well for. The better you played, the better he looked. You never wanted to make him look bad, because he was such a great person and he really wanted you to do well. You always wanted to make him proud.”
Bentley was quick to credit Henry for the success that he experienced as a player. The former Ohio State Buckeye enjoyed Henry’s style and even-keel temperament.
“Jack is kind of a throwback, yet he still is up on the times as far as how to deal with players,” Bentley said. “He treats you as a man. He knows that it’s an intense game and he expects a lot out of you, but he never, ever would dog cuss you under any circumstances. You knew what you would get everyday with Jack. Good or bad, win or lose, you would know what you were going to get.”Sounds like Marty picked a good one. That's great and it's important since the o-line is a position of critical need right now.

[CBO]

I think he would be the biggest pickup of the offseason. I do not think NO will franchise hime because of the almost 7mill cap# but they may use the transition tag on him. What is the compensation for a Transition Player?

[Chargeroo]

I think he would be the biggest pickup of the offseason. I do not think NO will franchise hime because of the almost 7mill cap# but they may use the transition tag on him. What is the compensation for a Transition Player? A Transition player must be offered a minimum of the average of the top 10 salaries of last season at the player's position or 120% of the player's previous year's salary, whichever is greater. A transition player designation gives the club a first-refusal right to match within seven days an offer sheet given to the player by another club after his contract expires. If the club matches, it retains the player. If it does not match, it receives no compensation.

[Ikeman83]

Roo, I would also like to see Backus, and I think the greatest thing working to our advantage is how crappy the Lions are. I think that if he comes out to the market, that we have to sign him. I don't know about Runyan though, since he's going to be so expensive and since he played RT instead of LT.

Is McNabb right or left handed? If he's left handed... then Runyan might be a good pickup to be moved over.

I do really like Backus though...

[Podium]

McNabb is right handed.

[Ikeman83]

I don't know if I'd want to put someone with a RT attitude on Drew's blindside. I would just think that someone used to strongside LBs would not be who we want protecting our QB from speed rushers.

[LTfan4life]

Bentley supposedly is considering going home to the Browns, where he played at Ohio State, or maybe the Bengals.

Joe, why wouldn't a team Franchise a player instead of a Transition tag the guy? I believe they're the same, except Franchised players get compensation if the team doesn't match the offer, and the Transition tag doesn't give the team any compensation.

There's got to be more details to it...it just doesn't make sense...

[Ikeman83]

I believe a team can release a transition player if they want to without a cap penalty (I could be wrong, I thought I read this somewhere).

[ChargerFanInBuf]

The Franchise tag is the average of the top 5, instead of the top 10, and you only get one of them, they may want it for someone else.

[loweezy]

transition players are mainly designated for risky players... the chargers might tag brees with the 'transition' tag... if brees isn't on the roster on 1st day of season, they don't owe him anything... i think that's how it works... i think, once you're franchised, you're guaranteed that money...

[Brother Wolf]

Soooo...when's LeChuck signing??? For that...when will all these FA's start signing w/ teams?

[Chargeroo]

Joelbolt put a FAQ regarding free agents in when we started the Free Agent area - all the answers are right here:

http://forums.chargers.com/showthread.php?t=28034

[LTMvP61nizine]

I'm pretty sure he'll sign with the Chargers if they're interested in him because of O-line coach Jack Henry

[drangus]

Yesterday I read a an article on chargers.com about new OL coach Henry--LeCharles Bentley was said to endorse his hiring--I think this means Bentley might be considering San Diego

Am I reading too much into this article?

http://www.chargers.com/news/headline_detail.cfm?news_key=2537

[Ikeman83]

Bentley endorsed him, but I don't know that that means he's coming here. Could just mean he believes Jack Henry is a good coach.

[CBO]

Yesterday I read a an article on chargers.com about new OL coach Henry--LeCharles Bentley was said to endorse his hiring--I think this means Bentley might be considering San Diego

Am I reading too much into this article?

http://www.chargers.com/news/headline_detail.cfm?news_key=2537

To early to tell but I would love to have him.

[LTfan4life]

Hopefully our off-season goes like this...

sign LeCharles Bentley
trade for/ sign Sam Madison
Draft Mike Huff, Ko Simpson, or even Jimmy Williams in round 1
Draft Jon Scott in round 2
Draft Devin Hester in round 3

That'd make my year :)

[SuperBowlBolts]

Hopefully our off-season goes like this...

sign LeCharles Bentley
trade for/ sign Sam Madison
Draft Mike Huff, Ko Simpson, or even Jimmy Williams in round 1
Draft Jon Scott in round 2
Draft Devin Hester in round 3

That'd make my year :)
is scott even projected to fall that far in the draft? I thought he as a first round pick

[Ikeman83]

is scott even projected to fall that far in the draft? I thought he as a first round pick

Basically Ferguson is going to be selected top 5, and then the next 6 OTs (that are basically the same caliber of player right now, they'll develop differently, of course and have their own strengths and weaknesses, but overall are about the same) are going to go between 9 and the end of the 2nd round.

Scott might not be there at 51, but someone with the same overall talent level will be.

[BoltsfanNYC]

Scott is most ready to play in the NFL... he rose at senior week...
Justice has more upside... 1 year younger and Better athlete... Winston if recovers from knee rehab may be 2nd best...
then a bunch of guys...2nd rounders...

Since I think justice goes 9 or 10! Mcneil or Scott are my fav's right now... but I will wait for grades and combines!!!

then... I like to get...max gean giles or davin joseph. or Deuce latui or bing in the 2nd round.... bing being last...
3rd... Blue S-Mangold or spencer C!!!
4th on TALENT BABY...like the pats do... except PK-k and RB we are good there! I would take robinson in the 5th... safety-wr 3rd string QB!!!

[Podium]

Other than Brick, I like Justice the best. He has a history of being a champion, which I think is sometimes underrated. Once a guy gets a taste of victory, he wants to taste it again, it's like a drug.

He has also dealt with adversity. He made some mistakes and instead of sitting around waiting, he trained as a boxer which improved his game.


Honestly, I'll be happy if we grab a hurricane in this draft.

WR-Moss
CB-Jennings (this guy is awesome, and not just because of the senior bowl)
WR/CB/KR/PR- Hester (depending on what round, news reports from FLA papers say that at a predraft camp, he ran 4.2 3 times.)

[BoltsfanNYC]

hester hmmm....sounds cool with me I like mangold too in 3rd would be sweet.

[boltskickass21]

The real question is would you rather spen your money on Hutchison or Hentley??? We could probably onle afford to sign one

[Ikeman83]

That's assuming Hutchinson is even available...

[boltskickass21]

Thats a big choice for the Seahawks. They cant possibly keep all of their FAs. They will likely have to choose between Alexander and Hutchison.

[WakkaWakkaWakka]

If the choice for the Seahawks came down to Alexander or Hutchinson, all signs point to showing Alexander the door.

[MarkStrauss02]

If the choice for the Seahawks came down to Alexander or Hutchinson, all signs point to showing Alexander the door.

Especially considering todays article on ESPN.com which indicated that Alexander would not be taking any kind of discount. I want to see him walk, get a lot of money and then got stuck behind a crap O-Line.

[Ikeman83]

Alexander's rushing ypc have been going up every year, not because of his skills improving, but because his line has been getting better at working together. He's gonna go to a crap team and go from setting records to scraping a 1200 yd season.

[loweezy]

alexander is good... but running backs can only do so much... i think turner could be a probowler behind seattle's line. he is a similar type of runner. strong legs... and he has the breakaway speed

[nshep42]

dude, i think my grandma might be a pro bowler behind seattle's line

[TheIceCreamMan]

i wuldnt mind chargers gettin bently

[SuperBowlBolts]

Thats a big choice for the Seahawks. They cant possibly keep all of their FAs. They will likely have to choose between Alexander and Hutchison.
But they can keep both Alexander and Hutchison they have the cap room. But if one were to be released it'd be Alexander.

[wikimama]

He is the #1 guy they should target. He has 3 pro bowls in 4 years and is better than Hardwick and Dielman so it would be a huge upgrade at either )G or C.

[ComputerFatGuy]

i really hope it happens. hes a freaking good player that can play different positions. plus ill have something to get excited about for the rest of the offseason( an improved o-line.)

[bigbolthead21]

Saints | Team won't tag Bentley
Wed, 22 Feb 2006 19:00:17 -0800
Mike Triplett, of the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/link/147">New Orleans Times-Picayune, reports the New Orleans Saints (http://www.kffl.com/team/25/nfl) are not planning to place a franchise or transition tag on free agent OC LeCharles Bentley (http://www.kffl.com/player/1205/nfl). He almost certainly will find a new home when the NFL (http://www.kffl.com/team/77/nfl)'s free agency period begins March 3. "I'm not ruling out the idea of coming back," Bentley said. "But with that being said, New Orleans has had ample opportunity to put their bid on the table. And once the other bids start coming in, I have to make the best decision I can." He was disappointed that the team did not sign him to a long-term contract extension sooner. Bentley, who is now represented by Neil Schwartz, is expected to seek a contract similar to what the Carolina Panthers (http://www.kffl.com/team/10/nfl) gave guard Mike Wahle (http://www.kffl.com/player/758/nfl) last year, reportedly a five-year deal worth up to $28 million with $11.5 million in bonuses. Saints (http://www.kffl.com/team/25/nfl) general manager Mickey Loomis also did not rule out the possibility that the Saints (http://www.kffl.com/team/25/nfl) could re-sign Bentley, but they have allowed themselves the possibility to be outbid for his services.

Great News!!!

[HeadTrip]

I certainly think a young allpro at a position of need is well worth 28 mill ver 5 years. I hope AJ thinks that as well!

[cstu]

I certainly think a young allpro at a position of need is well worth 28 mill ver 5 years. I hope AJ thinks that as well!

Only $11.5 million guaranteed for a 25 year old Pro Bowl center????? Good night, good luck and welcome to San Diego!

[cstu]

He is the #1 guy they should target. He has 3 pro bowls in 4 years and is better than Hardwick and Dielman so it would be a huge upgrade at either )G or C.

Two time (2003 and 2005), but who's counting? He's still an amazing young player and well worth the money.

[scottbbo1]

From KFFL.com

Saints | Team won't tag Bentley
Wed, 22 Feb 2006 19:00:17 -0800
Mike Triplett, of the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/link/147">New Orleans Times-Picayune, reports the New Orleans Saints (http://www.kffl.com/team/25/nfl) are not planning to place a franchise or transition tag on free agent OC LeCharles Bentley (http://www.kffl.com/player/1205/nfl). He almost certainly will find a new home when the NFL (http://www.kffl.com/team/77/nfl)'s free agency period begins March 3. "I'm not ruling out the idea of coming back," Bentley said. "But with that being said, New Orleans has had ample opportunity to put their bid on the table. And once the other bids start coming in, I have to make the best decision I can." He was disappointed that the team did not sign him to a long-term contract extension sooner. Bentley, who is now represented by Neil Schwartz, is expected to seek a contract similar to what the Carolina Panthers (http://www.kffl.com/team/10/nfl) gave guard Mike Wahle (http://www.kffl.com/player/758/nfl) last year, reportedly a five-year deal worth up to $28 million with $11.5 million in bonuses. Saints (http://www.kffl.com/team/25/nfl) general manager Mickey Loomis also did not rule out the possibility that the Saints (http://www.kffl.com/team/25/nfl) could re-sign Bentley, but they have allowed themselves the possibility to be outbid for his services.

[SDFaiderHater]

From KFFL.com

Saints | Team won't tag Bentley
Wed, 22 Feb 2006 19:00:17 -0800
Mike Triplett, of the <A href="http://www.kffl.com/link/147">New Orleans Times-Picayune, reports the New Orleans Saints (http://www.kffl.com/team/25/nfl) are not planning to place a franchise or transition tag on free agent OC LeCharles Bentley (http://www.kffl.com/player/1205/nfl). He almost certainly will find a new home when the NFL (http://www.kffl.com/team/77/nfl)'s free agency period begins March 3. "I'm not ruling out the idea of coming back," Bentley said. "But with that being said, New Orleans has had ample opportunity to put their bid on the table. And once the other bids start coming in, I have to make the best decision I can." He was disappointed that the team did not sign him to a long-term contract extension sooner. Bentley, who is now represented by Neil Schwartz, is expected to seek a contract similar to what the Carolina Panthers (http://www.kffl.com/team/10/nfl) gave guard Mike Wahle (http://www.kffl.com/player/758/nfl) last year, reportedly a five-year deal worth up to $28 million with $11.5 million in bonuses. Saints (http://www.kffl.com/team/25/nfl) general manager Mickey Loomis also did not rule out the possibility that the Saints (http://www.kffl.com/team/25/nfl) could re-sign Bentley, but they have allowed themselves the possibility to be outbid for his services.

5 years 28 mil is not that bad for someone of his talent, and age. he could be a major improvement to this team.

[JoeMcRugby]

Target!!

Target!!

Targat!!

:Bolt:

[SDFaiderHater]

Target!!

Target!!

Targat!!

:Bolt:

i sure hope so, if AJ wants any chance of guarding his boy, then he may want to sign this guy ASAP.

[Ikeman83]

If this guy's offer is not faxed to him at 1201 AM on March 3rd I will be livid.

[LV_BOLT]

i sure hope so, if AJ wants any chance of guarding his boy, then he may want to sign this guy ASAP.

You know it!



:Bolt: :Football:

[bolts4ever21]

This the one FA I want to get. I posted this a couple of days ago that they were probably not going to tag him. But now that Thursday is here, I guess it is official.

I hope that we can get his old oline coach to talk him into coming here. Also, my hope would be that our ProBowler talked to him about coming here.

He could do a lot of good for our oline. AJ get this guy.

[BIG GUNS]

Im all for signing Bentley it would be a great move but what do you do with Hardwick? Do you try to move him to guard and compete with Dielman or do you simply keep him at center in a back up role?

Thoughts?

[JoeMcRugby]

Im all for signing Bentley it would be a great move but what do you do with Hardwick? Do you try to move him to guard and compete with Dielman or do you simply keep him at center in a back up role?

Thoughts?

You tell Hardwick to work his butt off, gain some more upper body strength and weight.

Then you tell the guards and Hardwick that it's open competition for starting spots. If Hardwick puts his nose to the grindstone and shows he can stand up to big physical NTs better than he could in 2005, then Bentley plays G and the rest battle it out for the starting guard spot. The "losers" provide excellent backup protection.

If Hardwick can't do it, then you have an excellent backup center.

Competition is good and it's the key to AJ's team-building philosophy. There is no downside to bringing Bentley into the fold.

Get 'er done, AJ!! :Bolt:

[IgorUnchained]

You tell Hardwick to work his butt off, gain some more upper body strength and weight.

Then you tell the guards and Hardwick that it's open competition for starting spots. If Hardwick puts his nose to the grindstone and shows he can stand up to big physical NTs better than he could in 2005, then Bentley plays G and the rest battle it out for the starting guard spot. The "losers" provide excellent backup protection.

If Hardwick can't do it, then you have an excellent backup center.

Competition is good and it's the key to AJ's team-building philosophy. There is no downside to bringing Bentley into the fold.

Get 'er done, AJ!! :Bolt:


That is the way I see it too. Bentley is a great pickup for this team and should be at the top of the free agent wishlist. All of the offensive weapons would be helped by getting LeCharles, just like if the Bolts could draft D'brick.

I really like Hardwick when he isnt injured, but I think the Bolts should be looking to put the best possible team on the field, and if that makes Hardwick a 2nd stringer, that just makes me more confident about the depth.

[TJ21]

Bentley is Free!

#1 target for us, imo.

On a different not:
Adam Archuleta is also free. Just so all know, Archuleta is a blitzing safety, no where near a ballhawk.

[crittydog]

Obviously other teams are going to try to get Bentley, Law, Hope, Fabini, Randel El, and anyone esle that is a quality free agent. And it doesn't really matter if Law wants huge money or any of them want huge money. AJ will make his offers to the players he wants for whatever he think they are worth. In the end, if what the Chargers offer is not much different than what other teams are offering these players, then maybe we can get Law and Bentley and maybe some others. If are offers are not close to what other teams offer these guys, we won't land any of the free agents. I would like AJ to at least make offers to Law, Bentley, Hope, Fabini and hopefully we can get a couple of them.

[ChampCharger]

If this guy's offer is not faxed to him at 1201 AM on March 3rd I will be livid.

That is a hilarious post. Agreed.

[meatbucket]

has backus been tagged? i have no faith in oben's foot. i had plantar fasciitis, which isn't nearly as bad as oben's injury, and i was in agony every time i tried to run for over a year. had therapy, orthotics and it still isn't right five years later! what other good LT options are out there?

[mk87]

*Crosses fingers and toes*

I'm very excited about him. Please.... someone, inspire AJ...

It's meant to be.

[JoeMcRugby]

has backus been tagged? i have no faith in oben's foot. i had plantar fasciitis, which isn't nearly as bad as oben's injury, and i was in agony every time i tried to run for over a year. had therapy, orthotics and it still isn't right five years later! what other good LT options are out there?

It isn't just scheduled free agents to look at. Teams in salary hell will be forced to discard good OLTs that they want to keep.

The Jets have already cast off six year starting OLT Jason Fabini. The Skins might have to cut Pro Bowl OLT Chris Samuels.

Stay tuned.

BTW Oben's injury was officially plantar fascitis. He had surgery for it.

He feels just as confident as Brees that he'll be 100% for the start of training camp, but you're right regarding backup plans for him.

Sign Bentley and an OLT in free agency and pick up an OT on Day 1 of the draft and suddenly the o-line goes from a liability to a strength of the team! :Bolt:

[HeadTrip]

I thik we should go after Samuals regardless of Obens situation. Any time you can bring in a young probowler to a position of need you should find a way to do it. We have the cap space and the need to pull the trigger on Samuals and Bentely, so there is no reason not too. An offensive line of

Samuals
Olivea
Bentely
Goff
1st day draftee

is a line that can let our already superior skill position players take us to the SB.

[Boltz2175]

Good News...Great News...He's a rare talent and even though a think Hardwick has done a good job i would love to have this guy!

[JoeMcRugby]

I thik we should go after Samuals regardless of Obens situation. Any time you can bring in a young probowler to a position of need you should find a way to do it. We have the cap space and the need to pull the trigger on Samuals and Bentely, so there is no reason not too. An offensive line of

Samuals
Olivea
Bentely
Goff
1st day draftee

is a line that can let our already superior skill position players take us to the SB.

I'd start Oben over the first day draftee if Roman comes back healthy. The first day draftee can then be nurtured and coached up so that when he steps into the lineup, he'll be 100% ready for the challenge.

Other than that small detail, that's the starting line I want, HeadTrip - if the Skins part ways with Samuels.

[cstu]

I'd start Oben over the first day draftee if Roman comes back healthy. The first day draftee can then be nurtured and coached up so that when he steps into the lineup, he'll be 100% ready for the challenge.

Other than that small detail, that's the starting line I want, HeadTrip - if the Skins part ways with Samuels.

The Redskins are probably keeping Samuels since they can get under the cap by releasing some lesser players and restructuring some contracts and turning the salary into signing bonuses.

[Tycebrew]

The Redskins are probably keeping Samuels since they can get under the cap by releasing some lesser players and restructuring some contracts and turning the salary into signing bonuses.


And who on that team do you expect to restrusture?

[SuperMatt]

Good News...Great News...He's a rare talent and even though a think Hardwick has done a good job i would love to have this guy!

Agreed! I like what Hardwick brings to the table, but we got beat to many times by pressure up the middle.

I don't know too much about Bentley, but all the buzz about him makes me very excited at the prospect of plugging him into the middle of our line. I would be comfortable with the line going in as Oben, Dielman/Hardwick, Bentley, Goff, Olivea -- and if we were able to grab another stud like Samuels, I'd feel our offense would explode regardless of the QB (yes, even with Feely).

A strong offensive line makes the biggest difference. It lets us run, which sets up the pass and any QB that makes an NFL team can complete passes when they're given time and space.

I'm of the opinion Bentley will greatly improve our team -- get 'er done, AJ!

[Tycebrew]

Agreed! I like what Hardwick brings to the table, but we got beat to many times by pressure up the middle.

I don't know too much about Bentley, but all the buzz about him makes me very excited at the prospect of plugging him into the middle of our line. I would be comfortable with the line going in as Oben, Dielman/Hardwick, Bentley, Goff, Olivea -- and if we were able to grab another stud like Samuels, I'd feel our offense would explode regardless of the QB (yes, even with Feely).

A strong offensive line makes the biggest difference. It lets us run, which sets up the pass and any QB that makes an NFL team can complete passes when they're given time and space.

I'm of the opinion Bentley will greatly improve our team -- get 'er done, AJ!


I love Hardwick's fiery intensity too. But unless he adds about 20 pounds and some upper body strength, he will get pushed around too much by bigger, more physical Nose Tackles. Bentley would be a huge addition as would Chris Samuels at Tackle.

[promiseland]

Alright we all agree. We want Bentley in Bolts.

[robanalog]

Our new Oline coach better be in his ear, sending him e-cards, chocolates, flowers, whatever it takes to make him feel like this is where he can win a ring.

[JoeMcRugby]

The Redskins are probably keeping Samuels since they can get under the cap by releasing some lesser players and restructuring some contracts and turning the salary into signing bonuses.

We'll see about the "restructuring".

It was reported a couple of days ago that if every veteran on the Skins agreed to take the veteran's minimum salary for the 2006 season, they'd still be $4 million over the cap.

Samuels has already restructured once and redone his contract entirely once. Reports are he's not willing to do it again, but you never know.

Samuels also will count $12 million towards the Skins' cap in 2006. They might be forced to cut him because they may have no other choice.

There's a lesson in there for all who have wanted AJ to sign every big-name vet to big contracts over the past couple of years. I truly believe that this year is where AJ reaps what he has sewn over the past two years of cap fiscal responsibility. :Bolt:

[loweezy]

Anyone else think that picking up a Tackle would be more important than getting bentley?

Bentley wants to play center from what i hear...

at least getting a tackle... we can shuffle olivea back to guard....

although... i do really want bentley too... and also a tackle. would really upgrade our line! thoughts?

[56lightsout56]

Well, Backus has been franchised by the Lions.......Bummer. Bentley still hasnt and the deadline is 4pm Est. picking up both Bentley and Samuels would be Awesome.

[robsweetin]

Anyone else think that picking up a Tackle would be more important than getting bentley?

Bentley wants to play center from what i hear...

at least getting a tackle... we can shuffle olivea back to guard....

although... i do really want bentley too... and also a tackle. would really upgrade our line! thoughts?

I'm with you here, although Joe has made a strong case for bringing in Bentley.

In my view, paying a ton of money for a center is not a good investment. Center is widely acknowledged as the easiest OL position: snap the ball and block left or right. On most plays, the center will have help blocking from one of the guards. Centers aren't asked to pull as much as guards, either. Finally, centers aren't expected to make the same blocks at the second level that guards and tackles are.

I would feel more comfortable giving Bentley a top OL contract if he were brought in to play guard rather than center, especially given the fact that we used a 3rd round pick on Hardwick just 2 years ago. From what I understand, however, Bentley is intent on playing center. Is he an upgrade? Absolutely. Is he worth the money he's looking for (i.e. a contract similar to the one Mike Wahle signed with Carolina last year) to play center? I don't think so.

[Thunderstruck]

You tell Hardwick to work his butt off, gain some more upper body strength and weight.

Then you tell the guards and Hardwick that it's open competition for starting spots. If Hardwick puts his nose to the grindstone and shows he can stand up to big physical NTs better than he could in 2005, then Bentley plays G and the rest battle it out for the starting guard spot. The "losers" provide excellent backup protection.

If Hardwick can't do it, then you have an excellent backup center.

Competition is good and it's the key to AJ's team-building philosophy. There is no downside to bringing Bentley into the fold.

Get 'er done, AJ!! :Bolt:

The problem is; what if Bentley wants a guarantee that he'll be a center before he signs a contract...

[ChampCharger]

Anyone else think that picking up a Tackle would be more important than getting bentley?

Bentley wants to play center from what i hear...

at least getting a tackle... we can shuffle olivea back to guard....

although... i do really want bentley too... and also a tackle. would really upgrade our line! thoughts?

When I look at last year's O Line I think that the running game between the tackles was the weakest part. Our pass blocking was good until Oben was injured. I think our problem is creating holes for LT in the middle. LT needs a hole to hit so he doesn't have to dance at the line of scrimmage.

Bentley is a key target this offseason if we want to improve our interior line. I feel tackle could be addressed in the draft (first day) or we could replace Olivea (free agency) and I like the idea of him playing on the interior as well.

Oben (Rookie, Jordan)
Olivea (Dielman)
Bentley (Hardwick)
Goff (Hardwick, Dielman)
Jon Runyan (Van Buren)

[Tycebrew]

When I look at last year's O Line I think that the running game between the tackles was the weakest part. Our pass blocking was good until Oben was injured. I think our problem is creating holes for LT in the middle. LT needs a hole to hit so he doesn't have to dance at the line of scrimmage.

Bentley is a key target this offseason if we want to improve our interior line. I feel tackle could be addressed in the draft (first day) or we could replace Olivea (free agency) and I like the idea of him playing on the interior as well.

Oben (Rookie, Jordan)
Olivea (Dielman)
Bentley (Hardwick)
Goff (Hardwick, Dielman)
Jon Runyan (Van Buren)


Would appear to be a pretty good line however Van Buren won't be a Charger next year. AJ addressed in his press conference that Chargers are going a different direction and will release Courtney Van Buren.

Runyan would be good. Samuels would also be good and we will know soon if Samuels becomes a cap casualty.

[Dojo]

I'm with you here, although Joe has made a strong case for bringing in Bentley.

In my view, paying a ton of money for a center is not a good investment. Center is widely acknowledged as the easiest OL position: snap the ball and block left or right. On most plays, the center will have help blocking from one of the guards. Centers aren't asked to pull as much as guards, either. Finally, centers aren't expected to make the same blocks at the second level that guards and tackles are.

I would feel more comfortable giving Bentley a top OL contract if he were brought in to play guard rather than center, especially given the fact that we used a 3rd round pick on Hardwick just 2 years ago. From what I understand, however, Bentley is intent on playing center. Is he an upgrade? Absolutely. Is he worth the money he's looking for (i.e. a contract similar to the one Mike Wahle signed with Carolina last year) to play center? I don't think so.
yeah and all qb's do is throw a ball. Don't take any credit away from the centers of the league. They call blocking schemes (most of the time) and point out blitzing backers. They're also acknoledged as the qb on the OL.
I don't see Bentley playing C for us, I still see Hardwick starting, but I deinatly see him playing G. I don't think that Nick working on his upper body strength is his biggest concern, i think it's his ability to stay low. He's pretty mobile but he needs to learn to keep his legs spread and knees bent. He's pretty smart, also, and he's got experience in our offense so he could recognize what's best for the line. Remember, it wasn't long ago that Mark Stepnoski (?) played C and he wasn't over 250. He was also one of the best C's in the league.
We don't need to be switching around our O-Line if Bentley gets signed (like everyone is saying moving Shane to G). We could just plug LeChuck at the G position and he'd we'd have an instant all-pro filling a weak spot on our team.

Also if we sign Chris Samuels, name him your immediate starter and move Oben to RT and have Oben and Shane fight it out for the starting RT spot. This could be our line if those two are signed.

Samuels (Oben/Olivea backup)
Bentley (Olivea backup)
Hardwick
Goff (Olivea backup)
Olivea/Oben (Olivea/Oben backup)

It's a dream Oline. I see this Oline even or better than te O line on Seattle. The left side would deffinatly compete with Sea as the best left side in the game. It's hard to predict who will be signed where in FA but I think we have a good chance with LeChuck since he has ties to our Oline coach.

Also, are the Steelers gunna hang on to Chris Hope?

[RAWDOGG]

Would appear to be a pretty good line however Van Buren won't be a Charger next year. AJ addressed in his press conference that Chargers are going a different direction and will release Courtney Van Buren.

Runyan would be good. Samuels would also be good and we will know soon if Samuels becomes a cap casualty.

And maybe Mawea :Beer:

[Tycebrew]

Also, are the Steelers gunna hang on to Chris Hope?


Doubtful. The best they could hope for is to Transition Tag him. We will see.

If we get Bentley, I don't see any way of Hardwick startign at C over Bentley. Hardwick would have to work hard to fight for one of the G positions. Again... time will tell.

Let's just hope we get Bentley first. :p

[loweezy]

Oben (Rookie, Jordan)
Olivea (Dielman)
Bentley (Hardwick)
Goff (Hardwick, Dielman)
Jon Runyan (Van Buren)

I'd love that line. hah.

[Mike UFC]

Bentley's price just went up as the Hawks transition tagged Hutchinson.

[IgorUnchained]

Anyone else think that picking up a Tackle would be more important than getting bentley?

Bentley wants to play center from what i hear...

at least getting a tackle... we can shuffle olivea back to guard....

although... i do really want bentley too... and also a tackle. would really upgrade our line! thoughts?


Tackle is a bigger priority, but the end result would be the same (and it isnt like AJ wouldnt draft a Tackle!).
Bentley is a Pro Bowl caliber C/G, there isnt a Tackle prospect like that in Free Agency (not in his prime anyway). The new O line coach is familiar with LeCharles and they seem to have a respectful rapport with each other.

However the team chooses to improve, all they have to do is add ONE TD to the end score of every game last season to go like 13-3 and make the Playoffs. Bentley alone makes that possible with a healthy O line......even before the draft is factored in.

Tackle is more important than Center to the Bolts right now, but finding the guy who will add 6 or take 6 from the other team should be the main priority in free agency.
Bentley would add 6.....early and often.

[loweezy]

how does bentley's price go up? hutchinson was transition tagged..

[Dojo]

Doubtful. The best they could hope for is to Transition Tag him. We will see.

If we get Bentley, I don't see any way of Hardwick startign at C over Bentley. Hardwick would have to work hard to fight for one of the G positions. Again... time will tell.

Let's just hope we get Bentley first. :p
true true true. I see Bentley as our G because he was a two time pro bowler at G before making the move to C. I like his size and mobility but I like him at G mostly because that's our biggest need. If Hardwick can't prove that he's a legit C in this league then make the move to C but until then play Bentley at G. I see huge upside in Hardwick and he generally played well. I was really critical of him this season because he was a first day draft pick but looking back at his games he didn't struggle until Toniu left. I think he needs two outstanding, or at least legit (lets admit it, Dielman was VERY below average) G's next to him and he'll raise his game, and the sky is the limit.

[Dojo]

However the team chooses to improve, all they have to do is add ONE TD to the end score of every game last season to go like 13-3 and make the Playoffs.
Hahaha. I think we could have gone 13-3 with alot less than one TD at the end of every loss. It really came down to one play where WE screwed something up, not where the other team did something good.
Such as:
Running the ball on the goal line against Dallas
Foley holding contain on 4th down against Denver
Playing man coverage at the end of the Steeler game instead of being 7 yards off the ball when Pit got in FG range
BLOCKING ON A FIELD GOAL
etc...etc...
One play each game that goes our way and we could have been 15-1 (seriously, I just think the Chiefs spanked us up front. Like kicking a dead dog). We had, IMO, the hardest schedule in the history of the NFL, or at least I've ever seen. We were tired and choked at the end of the games and let the other teams get back into it. I don't THINK we'll do that this year but we'll see.

[Tycebrew]

true true true. I see Bentley as our G because he was a two time pro bowler at G before making the move to C. I like his size and mobility but I like him at G mostly because that's our biggest need. If Hardwick can't prove that he's a legit C in this league then make the move to C but until then play Bentley at G. I see huge upside in Hardwick and he generally played well. I was really critical of him this season because he was a first day draft pick but looking back at his games he didn't struggle until Toniu left. I think he needs two outstanding, or at least legit (lets admit it, Dielman was VERY below average) G's next to him and he'll raise his game, and the sky is the limit.


I agree with you mostly except I think T is our most glaring need over Guard. I really miss Toniu and the presence he had on the line. Hey... I hear he is a FA. :p :Beer: Now, now, I am kidding about getting Fonoti as much as I like him. The Chargers have gone a different direction already with him. He won't be back.

[Boltfan92153]

Yea, I used to like Fonoti, but now I just think he is not our style. He was awesome in 04, but where was he in 02-03. We all know injured reserve in 05.
We do not have much muscle up front now, we need a guy that can push the pile.

[Dojo]

I agree with you mostly except I think T is our most glaring need over Guard. I really miss Toniu and the presence he had on the line. Hey... I hear he is a FA. :p :Beer: Now, now, I am kidding about getting Fonoti as much as I like him. The Chargers have gone a different direction already with him. He won't be back.
I 100% agree with you that T is our most glaring need but you can't overlook a player of LeChucks ability. We could get a T after we get Bentley. let's lock down Bentley and focus our time at tackle in this offseason. T, S, and CB is our biggest need, but if we could improve somewhere else on the field that would be great. Bentley would be that cusion.

[Tycebrew]

Yea, I used to like Fonoti, but now I just think he is not our style. He was awesome in 04, but where was he in 02-03. We all know injured reserve in 05.
We do not have much muscle up front now, we need a guy that can push the pile.



Fonoti was fine in 02-03. There wasn't much of an O-Line then so Fonoti was all we had. He actually never was on injured reserve in 05. He was injured, and then eventually traded to Minnesota for a 7th rounder.

[Tycebrew]

I 100% agree with you that T is our most glaring need but you can't overlook a player of LeChucks ability. We could get a T after we get Bentley. let's lock down Bentley and focus our time at tackle in this offseason. T, S, and CB is our biggest need, but if we could improve somewhere else on the field that would be great. Bentley would be that cusion.


Agreed. Let's lock up LeChuck (great name).

[crittydog]

I know adding o-linemen will be important for us. I like Bentley and Fabini. Dominating the line of scrimmage means everything in football. And we have not done that on the offensive side. We should use a high draft pick on a tackle. Something else we need to look at is drafting someone for the D-line that can get it done, just in case Jamal Williams gets injured. He is the MVP of the team. No offense to LT, but Turner can get it done if LT goes down. We have nobody behind Jamal. I remember a couple years ago , the Bolts were 8-4 and a lineman on Denver clips Jamal and dislocates his ankle. We lost four str8 and couldn't stop the run or do anything on defense. Matter of fact I think anyone but Jamal could get injured and we have decent depth to get the job done. A high pick spent on a nose tackle would be very wise, imo.

[bolts4ever21]

I think that Bentley has been to a ProBowl as a Guard and as a Center. We are talking about a young ProBowler who could come in and solidify his spot for years to come.

Yes, we do need a tackle. Depending what falls through the cracks the next couple of weeks could determine that.

But getting Bentley in the fold could go a long way in helping the oline overall.

[56lightsout56]

it's worth at least looking into possibly making an offer to Hutchison too. Seattle has S. Alexander that they need to have leave a lot of cap room for him-plus there is no compensation for him since he is was tagged as a transition FA. I'd like to get at least one of them and C. Hope. Lets see who else will be a cap victim though-its early.

[CBO]

I realy hope we can pick up Bentley. He would instantly improve our line at Center or Gaurd. I think he should be our first signning.

[Ikeman83]

We'll see about the "restructuring".

It was reported a couple of days ago that if every veteran on the Skins agreed to take the veteran's minimum salary for the 2006 season, they'd still be $4 million over the cap.

Samuels has already restructured once and redone his contract entirely once. Reports are he's not willing to do it again, but you never know.

Samuels also will count $12 million towards the Skins' cap in 2006. They might be forced to cut him because they may have no other choice.

There's a lesson in there for all who have wanted AJ to sign every big-name vet to big contracts over the past couple of years. I truly believe that this year is where AJ reaps what he has sewn over the past two years of cap fiscal responsibility. :Bolt:

I know Samuels is scheduled to count $12 Mil towards his current contract if he stays, but what would he count against it if he goes.

[cstu]

And who on that team do you expect to restrusture?

QUOTE
By cutting safety Matt Bowen and offensive lineman Cory Raymer, who played sparingly last season; cornerback Walt Harris, who lost his starting job to rookie Carlos Rogers; and place kicker John Hall, who was injured for large parts of the past two seasons, sources said the Redskins could save $6.5 million in 2006 cap space.

Defensive tackle Brandon Noble, coming off career-threatening injuries, could retire or, if not, it is unlikely the team would keep him at his $1.7 million base salary. Trading backup quarterback Patrick Ramsey, as expected, would trim another $1.7 million.


By cutting Bowen, Raymer, Harris, Hall, Noble and Ramsey, the Redskins can cut out almost $10 million without much loss to the team at all.

That leaves another $10 million to trim by restructuring contracts and turning them into bonuses.

QUOTE
Getting quarterback Mark Brunell and tackle Jon Jansen to agree to restructure their $4 million base salaries by converting the money to bonuses that can be spread out over several years against the cap would trim another $5 million.
Brunell adjusted his salary last year and Jansen has said he would be open to exploring the idea.

Cornerback Shawn Springs, running back Clinton Portis, linebacker Marcus Washington and defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin are among the players who, like Arrington, have large bonuses due in 2006. By restructuring the bonuses, and prorating them, Washington could save about $8 million more under the cap.


That's $23 million off the cap which gives them about $3 million to sign draft picks.

[Tycebrew]

QUOTE
By cutting safety Matt Bowen and offensive lineman Cory Raymer, who played sparingly last season; cornerback Walt Harris, who lost his starting job to rookie Carlos Rogers; and place kicker John Hall, who was injured for large parts of the past two seasons, sources said the Redskins could save $6.5 million in 2006 cap space.

Defensive tackle Brandon Noble, coming off career-threatening injuries, could retire or, if not, it is unlikely the team would keep him at his $1.7 million base salary. Trading backup quarterback Patrick Ramsey, as expected, would trim another $1.7 million.


By cutting Bowen, Raymer, Harris, Hall, Noble and Ramsey, the Redskins can cut out almost $10 million without much loss to the team at all.

That leaves another $10 million to trim by restructuring contracts and turning them into bonuses.

QUOTE
Getting quarterback Mark Brunell and tackle Jon Jansen to agree to restructure their $4 million base salaries by converting the money to bonuses that can be spread out over several years against the cap would trim another $5 million.
Brunell adjusted his salary last year and Jansen has said he would be open to exploring the idea.

Cornerback Shawn Springs, running back Clinton Portis, linebacker Marcus Washington and defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin are among the players who, like Arrington, have large bonuses due in 2006. By restructuring the bonuses, and prorating them, Washington could save about $8 million more under the cap.


That's $23 million off the cap which gives them about $3 million to sign draft picks.


I don't think its quite that easy. I don't see those numbers quite adding up. I don't see Brunnell and Jansen restructuring, but we will see.

[JoeMcRugby]

QUOTE
By cutting safety Matt Bowen and offensive lineman Cory Raymer, who played sparingly last season; cornerback Walt Harris, who lost his starting job to rookie Carlos Rogers; and place kicker John Hall, who was injured for large parts of the past two seasons, sources said the Redskins could save $6.5 million in 2006 cap space.

Defensive tackle Brandon Noble, coming off career-threatening injuries, could retire or, if not, it is unlikely the team would keep him at his $1.7 million base salary. Trading backup quarterback Patrick Ramsey, as expected, would trim another $1.7 million.


By cutting Bowen, Raymer, Harris, Hall, Noble and Ramsey, the Redskins can cut out almost $10 million without much loss to the team at all.

That leaves another $10 million to trim by restructuring contracts and turning them into bonuses.

QUOTE
Getting quarterback Mark Brunell and tackle Jon Jansen to agree to restructure their $4 million base salaries by converting the money to bonuses that can be spread out over several years against the cap would trim another $5 million.
Brunell adjusted his salary last year and Jansen has said he would be open to exploring the idea.

Cornerback Shawn Springs, running back Clinton Portis, linebacker Marcus Washington and defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin are among the players who, like Arrington, have large bonuses due in 2006. By restructuring the bonuses, and prorating them, Washington could save about $8 million more under the cap.


That's $23 million off the cap which gives them about $3 million to sign draft picks.
Does all of the proposed "restructuring" meet the new rules regarding contracts - i.e. salaries can't rise more than 30% per year - devised to bring the game of constant restructuring of contracts to a grinding halt?

Who is the authority for that analysis?

Are Shawn Springs, Clinton Portis, Marcus Washington and Cornelius Griffin going to be "hunky-dory" with restructuring their contracts under the new rules? Will Brunell and Jansen do the same under the new contract rules?

Stay tuned. This is most definitely not a "done deal". What I'm really interested in is a link and/or some feedback on who conducted that cap analysis, cstu. I still follow the Skins and grew up a Washington Redskins fan. :Bolt:

[cstu]

Does all of the proposed "restructuring" meet the new rules regarding contracts - i.e. salaries can't rise more than 30% per year - devised to bring the game of constant restructuring of contracts to a grinding halt?

Who is the authority for that analysis?

Are Shawn Springs, Clinton Portis, Marcus Washington and Cornelius Griffin going to be "hunky-dory" with restructuring their contracts under the new rules? Will Brunell and Jansen do the same under the new contract rules?

Stay tuned. This is most definitely not a "done deal". What I'm really interested in is a link and/or some feedback on who conducted that cap analysis, cstu. I still follow the Skins and grew up a Washington Redskins fan. :Bolt:
Converting salaries to bonuses doesn't hurt the players since they still get the money, so there's no reason for them not to do it. They aren't increasing the salaries but setting them to zero and converting that all to a bonus they can pro-rate over 4 years for the salary cap.

I'm not sure if the rules have changed but as far as I know it's still within the rules. It is odd since you could do that every year - which I guess is what the Redskins have been doing every year that people have been claiming them to be in cap hell.

[JoeMcRugby]

Converting salaries to bonuses doesn't hurt the players since they still get the money, so there's no reason for them not to do it. They aren't increasing the salaries but setting them to zero and converting that all to a bonus they can pro-rate over 4 years for the salary cap.

I'm not sure if the rules have changed but as far as I know it's still within the rules. It is odd since you could do that every year - which I guess is what the Redskins have been doing every year that people have been claiming them to be in cap hell.
Let me try again, cstu:

Did you take the following new rule into effect in figuring out the restructuring of contracts in your example? The rules have changed. Since a new CBA has not been adopted, the Skins have to plan their cuts as per the rules for an uncapped year. If they don't and the CBA doesn't get adopted by next Thursday, look for Samuels to hit the market at the end of next week.

From John Clayton:
______________________________________

Because 2006 could be a transition year to no cap in 2007, rules change slightly and they take a lot of money out of the free agency pool. Teams will lose between $2.5 million and $5 million of cap room because of the transition. Because there is no cap in 2007, players who are released from multi-year contracts will have the cap hits on the 2006 cap. With no salary cap in 2007, there will be no June 1 adjustment date to release players with high cap numbers and delay the cap hits. With no cap in 2007, all incentives will count immediately.

Normally, incentives have to be earned during the season and are posted on the next year's cap. Teams have to leave room for the extra charges and that will take anywhere between $100 million and $150 million of cap room out of the free agent pool. With less room, fewer free agents will get big dollars, and fewer free agents will be signed. Another problem is the 30-percent rule for base salaries. Any contract that extends into an uncapped year limits the increase of a player's base salary to 30 percent a year. That kills the teams over the cap because they can't negotiate simple replacement deals in which they replace base salary with signing bonuses. The base salaries can increase only 30 percent a year so teams would have to negotiate two or three years of reductions. It will be harder for teams to free up money under the cap because of that.

Signing draft choices will be more difficult because teams can prorate signing bonuses for only four seasons. Already, agents figure the most a top draft choice can make under that scenario is $15 million, a major reduction from recent years. That leads to long holdouts by draft choices.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=clayton_john&id=2332991

[cstu]

Let me try again, cstu:

Did you take the following new rule into effect in figuring out the restructuring of contracts in your example? The rules have changed. Since a new CBA has not been adopted, the Skins have to plan their cuts as per the rules for an uncapped year. If they don't and the CBA doesn't get adopted by next Thursday, look for Samuels to hit the market at the end of next week.

From John Clayton:
______________________________________

Because 2006 could be a transition year to no cap in 2007, rules change slightly and they take a lot of money out of the free agency pool. Teams will lose between $2.5 million and $5 million of cap room because of the transition. Because there is no cap in 2007, players who are released from multi-year contracts will have the cap hits on the 2006 cap. With no salary cap in 2007, there will be no June 1 adjustment date to release players with high cap numbers and delay the cap hits. With no cap in 2007, all incentives will count immediately.

Normally, incentives have to be earned during the season and are posted on the next year's cap. Teams have to leave room for the extra charges and that will take anywhere between $100 million and $150 million of cap room out of the free agent pool. With less room, fewer free agents will get big dollars, and fewer free agents will be signed. Another problem is the 30-percent rule for base salaries. Any contract that extends into an uncapped year limits the increase of a player's base salary to 30 percent a year. That kills the teams over the cap because they can't negotiate simple replacement deals in which they replace base salary with signing bonuses. The base salaries can increase only 30 percent a year so teams would have to negotiate two or three years of reductions. It will be harder for teams to free up money under the cap because of that.

Signing draft choices will be more difficult because teams can prorate signing bonuses for only four seasons. Already, agents figure the most a top draft choice can make under that scenario is $15 million, a major reduction from recent years. That leads to long holdouts by draft choices.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=clayton_john&id=2332991
Joe, wasn't aware of all the ramifications of that and it definitely complicated the situation. It does look like the Skins will have to make some other cuts.

[meatbucket]

What I'm really interested in is a link and/or some feedback on who conducted that cap analysis, cstu. I still follow the Skins and grew up a Washington Redskins fan. :Bolt: so the skins used to be your team, but now the chargers are? how did that happen? it is interesting to me because i personally can't see myself ever not being a charger fan. i grew up with them as a kid and so they are totally a part of me. if they end up leaving san diego it would feel like i just had a body part amputated. it would seriously mess me up worse than when bush was elected! (twice!!):confused:

ps, please don't think i am criticising in any way, i'm just really curious:)

[Rivers2Gates]

if everything didnt work out with all other free agents and the only person we signed this offseason was Bress, i would still be the most happy person in this forum! :)

[JoeMcRugby]

so the skins used to be your team, but now the chargers are? how did that happen? it is interesting to me because i personally can't see myself ever not being a charger fan. i grew up with them as a kid and so they are totally a part of me. if they end up leaving san diego it would feel like i just had a body part amputated. it would seriously mess me up worse than when bush was elected! (twice!!)

ps, please don't think i am criticising in any way, i'm just really curious
My mother's family is from the DC area and my dad went to the Naval Academy.

We moved to the DC area at the same time George Allen arrived in town (way back in the day - 1971) and became a hardcore Skins fan.

After moving back to the DC area in the early 80s, a coach named Bobby Ross was at Maryland and I took a liking to him. In 1984, he led the Terps to the biggest comeback in NCAA history against the Jimmy Johnson coached defending national champion Miami Hurricanes. Trailing 31-0 at half at the Orange Bowl in Miami, the Terps (QBed by Frank Reich, the architect of the biggest NFL comeback in history) came back to win the game against the Canes. Check it out on ESPN Classic sometime. Most amazing game you'll ever see.

After the Skins won the 91 Super Bowl, the Chargers hired Ross. Since I'd always liked Bobby, I adopted the Chargers as my AFC team. After Gibbs left following the 92 season, the Chargers took over as my favorite team.

I tossed the Skins to the side after Daniel threw Marty and Brad Johnson to the side and installed all-time loser Jeff George as the team's QB. I've started following them more since Gibbs (a coach I love - in a platonic sense ;) ) has come back, but the Chargers remain my passion.

And there's the story!! :p :Bolt:

[TBOLTZCALI]

If we do sign him at 5 years, 28 mil, how does it work against this years cap. can someone explain to me how it works? do you just divide it into years?

[SDFaiderHater]

If we do sign him at 5 years, 28 mil, how does it work against this years cap. can someone explain to me how it works? do you just divide it into years?

the 28 million is broken up over the 5 year span, joe can get into specifics, but i believe a lot of the time they put alot of the salary towards the end of the contract, and the garaunteed money towards the begining, so if they decide to cut the player before the 5 years is up, then it wont cost us money, and may free up cap space.

[JoeMcRugby]

If we do sign him at 5 years, 28 mil, how does it work against this years cap. can someone explain to me how it works? do you just divide it into years?

Due to the uncapped year in 2007 (at the present time), signing bonuses cab be spread over four seasons.

In the previous example, $12 million is spread out as follows:

$3 million towards 2006
$3 million towards 2007
$3 million towards 2008
$3 million towards 2009

The remaining $16 million is normally a smorgasborg of salaries, incentives, option bonuses and roster bonuses.

I can tell you this, though: If Bentley got a $12 million signing bonus, the first year salary can be anywhere they want it to be. All the way from the NFL vet's minimum to whereever the Chargers want to structure it in order to lessen cap charges in future years.

In other words, the Chargers could sign Bentley, hand him $13 million over the course of 2006 and only be charged $4 million against the 2006 cap. :Bolt:

[SuperBowlBolts]

If we sign Brees and Bentely i could care less who else we sign to the team via FA.

[Shamrock]

I thik we should go after Samuals regardless of Obens situation. Any time you can bring in a young probowler to a position of need you should find a way to do it. We have the cap space and the need to pull the trigger on Samuals and Bentely, so there is no reason not too. An offensive line of

Samuals
Olivea
Bentely
Goff
1st day draftee

is a line that can let our already superior skill position players take us to the SB.
Just for kicks and giggles .......

If Samuels was released and we signed him and Bentley, I'd prefer this OL:

Samuels - Bentley - Hardwick - Olivea - Oben

Depth: Goff, Dielman, Mzcuz..ski, Draft pick (J. Scott, Whitworth, Trueblood)

[Shamrock]

If Bentley got a $12 million signing bonus, the first year salary can be anywhere they want it to be. All the way from the NFL vet's minimum to where ever the Chargers want to structure it in order to lessen cap charges in future years.

Yes and no. Depends on the structure of the deal. However, if any player has a minimum salary, they can only have 30% yearly increases on their base (another uncapped year deal).

See Clayton discussion (http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=clayton_john&id=2332991).

He's talking about players restructuring to free up cap room, but the same principle applies to new contracts:

Another problem is the 30-percent rule for base salaries. Any contract that extends into an uncapped year limits the increase of a player's base salary to 30 percent a year. That kills the teams over the cap because they can't negotiate simple replacement deals in which they replace base salary with signing bonuses. The base salaries can increase only 30 percent a year so teams would have to negotiate two or three years of reductions.

[BCBoltFan]

Just for kicks and giggles .......

If Samuels was released and we signed him and Bentley, I'd prefer this OL:

Samuels - Bentley - Hardwick - Olivea - Oben

Depth: Goff, Dielman, Mzcuz..ski, Draft pick (J. Scott, Whitworth, Trueblood)
I'm needing a bib here as I drool.

[SuperBowlBolts]

I'm needing a bib here as I drool.
Man that whats you call an o-line...hope it comes together.

[BoltsfanNYC]

yes that oline would let LT run wild! and either QB time to throw deep to Tmac parker gates and VJ...

[JoeMcRugby]

Yes and no. Depends on the structure of the deal. However, if any player has a minimum salary, they can only have 30% yearly increases on their base (another uncapped year deal).

Oooooops. Forgot my own post to cstu regarding the 30% rule. :p

The truth is that the Chargers are by far the team with the most talent that is in superb cap shape.

If AJ is aggressive, there's no reason Bentley won't be a Charger in 2006! :Bolt:

[meatbucket]

My mother's family is from the DC area and my dad went to the Naval Academy.

We moved to the DC area at the same time George Allen arrived in town (way back in the day - 1971) and became a hardcore Skins fan.

After moving back to the DC area in the early 80s, a coach named Bobby Ross was at Maryland and I took a liking to him. In 1984, he led the Terps to the biggest comeback in NCAA history against the Jimmy Johnson coached defending national champion Miami Hurricanes. Trailing 31-0 at half at the Orange Bowl in Miami, the Terps (QBed by Frank Reich, the architect of the biggest NFL comeback in history) came back to win the game against the Canes. Check it out on ESPN Classic sometime. Most amazing game you'll ever see.

After the Skins won the 91 Super Bowl, the Chargers hired Ross. Since I'd always liked Bobby, I adopted the Chargers as my AFC team. After Gibbs left following the 92 season, the Chargers took over as my favorite team.

I tossed the Skins to the side after Daniel threw Marty and Brad Johnson to the side and installed all-time loser Jeff George as the team's QB. I've started following them more since Gibbs (a coach I love - in a platonic sense ;) ) has come back, but the Chargers remain my passion.

And there's the story!! :p :Bolt:
thanks for sharing, very interesting. i'm glad you made it to our side! i'll look for that game on espn classic; however, as a cal alumnus, i have to say it'd be hard to beat the stanford trombone player getting his gear bent in the end zone celebrating a victory while my boys took it to the house to win with no time left on the clock! (i actually watched that game on tv live when i was about 8. that's what made me a football fan/player and made me want to go to berkeley. i lived in san diego and started watching air coryell and was hooked)

[JoeMcRugby]

thanks for sharing, very interesting. i'm glad you made it to our side! i'll look for that game on espn classic; however, as a cal alumnus, i have to say it'd be hard to beat the stanford trombone player getting his gear bent in the end zone celebrating a victory while my boys took it to the house to win with no time left on the clock! (i actually watched that game on tv live when i was about 8. that's what made me a football fan/player and made me want to go to berkeley. i lived in san diego and started watching air coryell and was hooked)

Off topic, but when did you go to Cal? My brother played TE there (a reserve) in the late 80s.

[DEboltsfan]

IMO this guy should be our #1 priority in FA. If we have that stud anchoring the center of our line or one of the sides it can only improve our offense in both regards (rushing and passing). We got the cap space, lets throw down some coin and land this dude. having his old coach on our staff now certainly can't hurt our odds.

[laschwa]

anyone know how bright bentley is?

reason being, doesn't the center have to make all the protection calls on the line?

so someone who is calm under pressure, can read defenses and anticipate blitzes, would have to be pretty smart too.

i'm assuming he is, but anyone know hear anything to confirm or deny?

[Sogvet17]

somebody please tell me why AJ is keeping L. Jordan around????

[HeadTrip]

anyone know how bright bentley is?

reason being, doesn't the center have to make all the protection calls on the line?

so someone who is calm under pressure, can read defenses and anticipate blitzes, would have to be pretty smart too.

i'm assuming he is, but anyone know hear anything to confirm or deny?

He was a probowler at the position while playing for a disfunctional NO franchise. That should tell you all you need.

[HeadTrip]

somebody please tell me why AJ is keeping L. Jordan around????

He is a young player wiht starting experience. He has a lot of value as a backup RT, but LT is over his head.

[laschwa]

He was a probowler at the position while playing for a disfunctional NO franchise. That should tell you all you need.

good point.

i kinda forgot how awful it must have been to play for NO last year. he must be mentally tough.

[cstu]

anyone know how bright bentley is?

reason being, doesn't the center have to make all the protection calls on the line?

so someone who is calm under pressure, can read defenses and anticipate blitzes, would have to be pretty smart too.

i'm assuming he is, but anyone know hear anything to confirm or deny?

He's a two-time Pro Bowler by age 26. How could he not be those things?

[laschwa]

He's a two-time Pro Bowler by age 26. How could he not be those things?

good point again. unlike bentley, apparently i'm not that bright. good thing i don't play center.

[cstu]

good point again. unlike bentley, apparently i'm not that bright. good thing i don't play center.
:D Here this'll help. :Beer:

[SuperMatt]

good point again. unlike bentley, apparently i'm not that bright. good thing i don't play center.

LMAO! Cheers to you for acknowledging your oversight and having a good laugh about it! :Beer: :D

[meatbucket]

Off topic, but when did you go to Cal? My brother played TE there (a reserve) in the late 80s.

1990-94, during the naked guy era and the hills fire. just missed him:(

[meatbucket]

IMO this guy should be our #1 priority in FA. If we have that stud anchoring the center of our line or one of the sides it can only improve our offense in both regards (rushing and passing). We got the cap space, lets throw down some coin and land this dude. having his old coach on our staff now certainly can't hurt our odds. i totally agree, plus having a pro-bowl tandem of coach/player would set an example and provide an aura of success/desire/committment that the rest of the oline -- especially the kids -- can only benefit from.

[POOpooMAGOO]

If we do sign Bentley where would we play him. I thought Hardwick did a good job and is always improving. and i know that bentley can play guard.

[SuperBowlBolts]

If we do sign Bentley where would we play him. I thought Hardwick did a good job and is always improving. and i know that bentley can play guard.
First i'd have bentely start at C in camp and everything. Tell Hardwick he has to play for the starting spot and if he shows he can handle it then you have Bentely play G. Then you get Olivea, Dielman, and Goff to play for the open G spot. Competition breeds excellence.

[Tycebrew]

If we do sign Bentley where would we play him. I thought Hardwick did a good job and is always improving. and i know that bentley can play guard.


I love Hardwick because he has a fiery intensity. We need someone like that on the line, but he got overpowered by more physical and stronger nose tackles, so we must over come that with some stronger talent.

[Thunderstruck]

I love Hardwick because he has a fiery intensity. We need someone like that on the line, but he got overpowered by more physical and stronger nose tackles, so we must over come that with some stronger talent.

Either that or we need to build a line capable of playing to Hardwick's strengths. The Broncos have an o-line where Hardwick would be one of the big guys, but they seem to get the job done--especially in the running game. Hardwick is good at pulling, but he's really the only guy on the o-line with that talent. Because of that, we rarely run plays that require the center to pull, meaning we aren't really taking advantage of Hardwick's biggest asset.

But...if we put him next to a guard who is athletic enough to pull, then we could run a lot more plays where both the center and the gaurd are required to move quickly to the point-of-attack. It could make out running game much more dangerous.

Also, quicker linemen who can move and force those big nose tackles to run around usually have an advantage late in games, because those big defensive tackles wear out if they have to spend a lot of time chasing rather than just focusing on gap-control.

[ChampCharger]

Either that or we need to build a line capable of playing to Hardwick's strengths. The Broncos have an o-line where Hardwick would be one of the big guys, but they seem to get the job done--especially in the running game. Hardwick is good at pulling, but he's really the only guy on the o-line with that talent. Because of that, we rarely run plays that require the center to pull, meaning we aren't really taking advantage of Hardwick's biggest asset.

But...if we put him next to a guard who is athletic enough to pull, then we could run a lot more plays where both the center and the gaurd are required to move quickly to the point-of-attack. It could make out running game much more dangerous.

Also, quicker linemen who can move and force those big nose tackles to run around usually have an advantage late in games, because those big defensive tackles wear out if they have to spend a lot of time chasing rather than just focusing on gap-control.

This is why Bentley is a no brainer and a must this offseason.

[BoltsfanNYC]

bentley should be our number 1 concern at this point. we ahve an ofer on the table with drew.... He can sign it or counter. But bentley needs an offer and a damn good one!

[robsweetin]

http://www.kffl.com/hotw/nfl

Eagles | Team set to sign Bentley
Thu, 2 Mar 2006 21:34:11 -0800

Bob Brookover, of the Philadelphia Inquirer, reports the Philadelphia Eagles are set to sign free agent C LeCharles Bentley (Saints). Bentley's interest in joining the Eagles is so strong that the only thing preventing the signing from happening Friday, March 3, was the delay in the start of free agency.

-----

Bentley is one of the top free agent OL.

The good news is he hasn't signed anything yet. It'll be interesting to see how this plays out. :(

[Boltman19]

Eagles | Team set to sign Bentley
Thu, 2 Mar 2006 21:34:11 -0800

Bob Brookover, of the Philadelphia Inquirer, reports the Philadelphia Eagles are set to sign free agent C LeCharles Bentley (Saints). Bentley's interest in joining the Eagles is so strong that the only thing preventing the signing from happening Friday, March 3, was the delay in the start of free agency.



I saw this on another football board I post on. Brees is probably as good as gone knowing our FO, but don't let him slip away.

[foober]

Eagles | Team set to sign Bentley
Thu, 2 Mar 2006 21:34:11 -0800

Bob Brookover, of the Philadelphia Inquirer, reports the Philadelphia Eagles are set to sign free agent C LeCharles Bentley (Saints). Bentley's interest in joining the Eagles is so strong that the only thing preventing the signing from happening Friday, March 3, was the delay in the start of free agency.



I saw this on another football board I post on. Brees is probably as good as gone knowing our FO, but don't let him slip away.

What do you want them to do. Kidnap him. Sounds like bentley really wants to live in philedelphia.

[mtxsound]

Eagles | Team set to sign Bentley
Thu, 2 Mar 2006 21:34:11 -0800

Bob Brookover, of the Philadelphia Inquirer, reports the Philadelphia Eagles are set to sign free agent C LeCharles Bentley (Saints). Bentley's interest in joining the Eagles is so strong that the only thing preventing the signing from happening Friday, March 3, was the delay in the start of free agency.



I saw this on another football board I post on. Brees is probably as good as gone knowing our FO, but don't let him slip away.

A link would help. But this is stil speculation. Its not a done deal by no means. If it were you, would you sign without talking to a few other suitors? I find this unlikely. But possible...

[TJ21]

AHHH!!!! Come on. Bentley was our #1 option. Why would he want to go to Philly anyway? They're awful!

[LAbolt]

philly aint awfull man lets b real aight. 2nd if charles wants 2 go 2 philly so b it.. theres plenty of more free agents that would wanna come here.. .

[Fouts2Chandler]

philly aint awfull man lets b real aight. 2nd if charles wants 2 go 2 philly so b it.. theres plenty of more free agents that would wanna come here.. .

I beg to differ if they think we are starting a rookie qb.

[Boltman19]

A link would help. But this is stil speculation. Its not a done deal by no means. If it were you, would you sign without talking to a few other suitors? I find this unlikely. But possible...

I'm asking for the link now, but if you want, go ahead and googl search the writers name.

But Please AJ, I know that you aren't the best when it comes to signing guys, but we were all counting on Bentley

[Onion Knight]

AHHH!!!! Come on. Bentley was our #1 option. Why would he want to go to Philly anyway? They're awful!

Lucky my girlfriend isnt around! hahahaha I do enjoy making fun of the Eagooze , but I have curbed it around her, to not get hit.
the gooze will be pretty good next year if they can get an RB and perhaps a WR.... Understandable why he wants to go there; especially if they are waving the franklins at him.

[boltskickass21]

Hold on, cant a team have no negotiation talks or even let people know they are interested in them at all before FA begins? I thought stuff like that was illegal to do. Plus that is from an Inquirer. Chill guys

[JCDavey]

AHHH!!!! Come on. Bentley was our #1 option. Why would he want to go to Philly anyway? They're awful!

let's see , they've been to a superbowl recently, people generally love andy reid , TO's gone (a definate plus haha) , they've been to the nfc championship game what 3 or 4 times in a row before last season?


it's not like he has to live in that craphole to play there :Beer:

[JCDavey]

I beg to differ if they think we are starting a rookie qb.

probably as many who want to come here with a busted up question mark qb

[FanSince1979]

Eagles | Team set to sign Bentley
Thu, 2 Mar 2006 21:34:11 -0800

Bob Brookover, of the Philadelphia Inquirer, reports the Philadelphia Eagles are set to sign free agent C LeCharles Bentley (Saints). Bentley's interest in joining the Eagles is so strong that the only thing preventing the signing from happening Friday, March 3, was the delay in the start of free agency.

I saw this on another football board I post on. Brees is probably as good as gone knowing our FO, but don't let him slip away.Dang, I was really hoping AJ would pick him up!

[Onion Knight]

let's see , they've been to a superbowl recently, people generally love andy reid , TO's gone (a definate plus haha) , they've been to the nfc championship game what 3 or 4 times in a row before last season?


it's not like he has to live in that craphole to play there :Beer:

thing going for the chargers is their owner is a cheap basterd. Got inside info :)

[boltskickass21]

I beg to differ if they think we are starting a rookie qb.
Can there be a single thread around here without that controversy popping up? Come on, people, there are plenty of other threads for that.

[Boltman19]

Well, I'm glad he's leaving NO so he doesn't have to deal with all that rebuilding, and be surrounded by a bad team

[JCDavey]

thing going for the chargers is their owner is a cheap basterd. Got inside info :)

let's hope so! :Beer:

but seriously, if bentley's dead set on playing somewhere else, us being so gaga over the guy isn't going to make a bit of difference

[Onion Knight]

let's hope so! :Beer:

but seriously, if bentley's dead set on playing somewhere else, us being so gaga over the guy isn't going to make a bit of difference

its not a matter of simply opening arms, but the pocketbook as well. Aj?

[Rivers2Gates]

Can there be a single thread around here without that controversy popping up? Come on, people, there are plenty of other threads for that.
its a very legit reason for not going to a team, bolts. Why would he want to come here for a team that might "seem to be building a franchise around a new guy"?

[JoeMcRugby]

Eagles | Team set to sign Bentley
Thu, 2 Mar 2006 21:34:11 -0800

Bob Brookover, of the Philadelphia Inquirer, reports the Philadelphia Eagles are set to sign free agent C LeCharles Bentley (Saints). Bentley's interest in joining the Eagles is so strong that the only thing preventing the signing from happening Friday, March 3, was the delay in the start of free agency.

I wonder if this is as accurate as John Clayton of ESPN and Adam Schefter of NFL Network reporting that Drew Brees is recovering from a tear in his rotator cuff? :rolleyes:

Especially considering that even before the extension a team is guilty of tampering if they were in contract talks with another teams player before March 3rd?

Press the panic button and settle down, people. :Beer:

[JoeMcRugby]

its a very legit reason for not going to a team, bolts. Why would he want to come here for a team that might "seem to be building a franchise around a new guy"?

The franchise is built.

And worst case scenario, they'll have a 3rd year QB behind center. The franchise won't be built around PR, just as it hasn't been built around Brees. :Bolt:

[boltskickass21]

I wonder if this is as accurate as John Clayton of ESPN and Adam Schefter of NFL Network reporting that Drew Brees is recovering from a tear in his rotator cuff? :rolleyes:

Especially considering that even before the extension a team is guilty of tampering if they were in contract talks with another teams player before March 3rd?

Press the panic button and settle down, people. :Beer:
Exactly what i was saying in post 10 of this thread. Thanks Joe.

[JCDavey]

its not a matter of simply opening arms, but the pocketbook as well. Aj?

i agree, but maybe god will tell lecharles to go to philly like he told reggie to go to gb :Beer:

[SuperBowlBolts]

http://www.kffl.com/hotw/nfl

Eagles | Team set to sign Bentley
Thu, 2 Mar 2006 21:34:11 -0800

Bob Brookover, of the Philadelphia Inquirer, reports the Philadelphia Eagles are set to sign free agent C LeCharles Bentley (Saints). Bentley's interest in joining the Eagles is so strong that the only thing preventing the signing from happening Friday, March 3, was the delay in the start of free agency.

-----

Bentley is one of the top free agent OL.

The good news is he hasn't signed anything yet. It'll be interesting to see how this plays out. :(
you have to be kidding me

[Podium]

Exactly what i was saying in post 10 of this thread. Thanks Joe.

I wanna say it too!

First thing I thought when I read that "report"

T-A-M-P-E-R-I-N-G!

If this is true, then Philly could face some penalties. Remember, it's Rumor Time people. Things are going to be said that have zero grounds, but they're all part of strategizing, or some lame ass reporting.

[JCDavey]

I wanna say it too!

First thing I thought when I read that "report"

T-A-M-P-E-R-I-N-G!

If this is true, then Philly could face some penalties. Remember, it's Rumor Time people. Things are going to be said that have zero grounds, but they're all part of strategizing, or some lame ass reporting.

first thing i thought when i read it is

'wow, hadn't even heard philly as a possibility for him'

[boltskickass21]

first thing i thought when i read it is

'wow, hadn't even heard philly as a possibility for him'
Nobody has really heard of us as a possibility for him or many other top of the line FAs (Hutchison, Randel El), or at least in the various rumor mills.

[JCDavey]

Nobody has really heard of us as a possibility for him or many other top of the line FAs (Hutchison, Randel El), or at least in the various rumor mills.

great point

[Brees Fan71786]

Maybe free agents are wary of playing hardball on contracts with our front office.

[JCDavey]

Maybe free agents are wary of playing hardball on contracts with our front office.

maybe they hate our HC as much as i do haha

[IgorUnchained]

Eagles | Team set to sign Bentley
Thu, 2 Mar 2006 21:34:11 -0800

Bob Brookover, of the Philadelphia Inquirer, reports the Philadelphia Eagles are set to sign free agent C LeCharles Bentley (Saints). Bentley's interest in joining the Eagles is so strong that the only thing preventing the signing from happening Friday, March 3, was the delay in the start of free agency.

The Bolts are 17.1 million over the salary cap, the Eagles are 14.2 over. If AJ wants him, the Bolts are in the 5th best position overall to land him.

[foty89]

What do you want them to do. Kidnap him. Sounds like bentley really wants to live in philedelphia.

Hey Foobs,

That is all that needed to be said, the thread should have been closed.

I'd like to see him here too, but he apparently has made his choice.

Go Bolts!
:Bolt: :Bolt: :Bolt:

[foty89]

thing going for the chargers is their owner is a cheap basterd. Got inside info :)

You know, a great many of us get tired of hearing that. The Chargers have spent money, sometimes it just does not work out. Yes, last year and this year we have been under the cap, but that was after avoiding salary cap hell through some tough measures. We are in good shape for now and the future, unlike a lot of other teams in the NFL and our division.

If you really have some information based in fact and reality, post it, otherwise don't waste your energy or our time.

Go Bolts!
:Bolt: :Bolt: :Bolt:

[IgorUnchained]

I'm asking for the link now, but if you want, go ahead and googl search the writers name.

But Please AJ, I know that you aren't the best when it comes to signing guys, but we were all counting on Bentley



That blurb came from KFFL, and the piece of news was reported at some point by Bob Brookover from the Philedelphia Inquirer.;)

At this point in time, EVERYTHING is rumor. Even if AJ came out right now and held a press conference claiming that he was intent on taking Jon Scott in the draft.....noone would believe him.
This is the time of year where anything is possible, but nothing should be believed at first glance. The Bolts have more cap room than the Eagles....they could win the bidding war...with better weather and his old coach.:Helmet:

[BoltsfanNYC]

eagles didnt say shiet as they would be tampering... :)

[IgorUnchained]

http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/sports/14003995.htm

[IgorUnchained]

http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/sports/14003995.htm

According to a source close to the center, Bentley's interest in joining the Eagles is so strong that only the delay in the free-agency period prevented the move from happening today.

[Podium]

Thanks for the link Igor, I believe it a little more now. I just don't see how the report states that "the Eagles are set to sign Bentley."

I'm not ignorant to the fact that there is a grapevine to get around tampering.

But, you can't doubt that these two have had contact with each other. How does Bentley know the Eagles want him? How do the Eagles know he wants them? The grapevine.

[IgorUnchained]

Thanks for the link Igor, I believe it a little more now. I just don't see how the report states that "the Eagles are set to sign Bentley."

I'm not ignorant to the fact that there is a grapevine to get around tampering.

But, you can't doubt that these two have had contact with each other. How does Bentley know the Eagles want him? How do the Eagles know he wants them? The grapevine.


I guess it has been common knowledge that the Eagles are looking to improve their O and D lines. I guess that there was discussion about Kevin Mawae being brought in, but Mawae is 30 and Bentley is 26. Plenty of players have mentioned teams that they would like to go to...or had agents do it.....I guess it is natural that if Bentley wanted the word to get out he could have a "friend" get a hold of someone in the media.
It is all still rumor at this point, but it is food for thought.

[ghost]

If there is any truth to that article at all, it's blantant tampering. Blatant.

[IgorUnchained]

I posted a link to this story in the Lecharles Bentley thread in the Free Agent forum....it sounds like a "source close to Bentley" is the one who said that Bentley wants to play for Philly.
I didnt hear anything about Philly talking to Bentley....and having a friend/agent mention that on the sly isnt going to get anyone in trouble for tampering....anymore than Law's agent got in trouble for mentioning that Law wanted to come to San Diego (supposedly).

[JCDavey]

You know, a great many of us get tired of hearing that. The Chargers have spent money, sometimes it just does not work out. Yes, last year and this year we have been under the cap, but that was after avoiding salary cap hell through some tough measures. We are in good shape for now and the future, unlike a lot of other teams in the NFL and our division.

If you really have some information based in fact and reality, post it, otherwise don't waste your energy or our time.

Go Bolts!
:Bolt: :Bolt: :Bolt:
he meant jeffrey luria, the eagles owner, is a cheap *******

Lucky my girlfriend isnt around! hahahaha I do enjoy making fun of the Eagooze , but I have curbed it around her, to not get hit.
the gooze will be pretty good next year if they can get an RB and perhaps a WR.... Understandable why he wants to go there; especially if they are waving the franklins at him.

that right there implies his gf is an eagles fan, so when he says their owner is a cheap *******, inside info

my assumption is he's calling their owner a cheap *******, not the chargers owner, but i guess i can see how that was misconstrued

[jhasley]

san diego seems to be in a dead lock for bentley in my views..im hearing 4 times are at the top of his list..in no order, min. , cleveland <where i believe he will land>, philly, and san diego..it could come down to a bidding war, in which cleveland has the most money and thats where bentley is from.
i see san diego going after a veteran like JOHN RUNYAN instead to play right tackle for us

[Fouts2Chandler]

he meant jeffrey luria, the eagles owner, is a cheap *******



that right there implies his gf is an eagles fan, so when he says their owner is a cheap *******, inside info

my assumption is he's calling their owner a cheap *******, not the chargers owner, but i guess i can see how that was misconstrued

That's how I took it too.

And for the record, if anyone wants to call Alex Spanos cheap, AJ Smith a moron if Brees walks, Marty Schott an idiot for playing Drew in the last game or vice versa...that's their prerogative and right to voice/type their opinion. It's a forum...i'm tired of people getting pissed off because others don't agree with them. If someone is tired of debating the Brees situation, AJ's hardball stance, etc you can click that little x up in the right hand corner of your screen and go do something else.

[SikvikSD66]

Press the panic button and settle down, people. :Beer:

I pressed it Joe but nothing happened:D :eek:

[Chargeroo]

If they already know the salary and have agreed, it's tampering!

[Podium]

I guess it has been common knowledge that the Eagles are looking to improve their O and D lines. I guess that there was discussion about Kevin Mawae being brought in, but Mawae is 30 and Bentley is 26. Plenty of players have mentioned teams that they would like to go to...or had agents do it.....I guess it is natural that if Bentley wanted the word to get out he could have a "friend" get a hold of someone in the media.
It is all still rumor at this point, but it is food for thought.

I agree with that!

But, the report doesn't make it sound like a rumor. It seriously smells of tampering. (if it's true)

[BCBoltFan]

No CBA, delay on FA signings and maybe Bentley not becoming a Charger. :mad:
Not a good start to the weekend!

[JCDavey]

I pressed it Joe but nothing happened:D :eek:
yeah joe should have a link on that graphic pointing to something hilarious like the raiders website haha

[SDFaiderHater]

No CBA, delay on FA signings and maybe Bentley not becoming a Charger. :mad:
Not a good start to the weekend!

dont forget about brees being kicked out the door so Baby boy rivers can play.

[cstu]

I guess it has been common knowledge that the Eagles are looking to improve their O and D lines. I guess that there was discussion about Kevin Mawae being brought in, but Mawae is 30 and Bentley is 26. Plenty of players have mentioned teams that they would like to go to...or had agents do it.....I guess it is natural that if Bentley wanted the word to get out he could have a "friend" get a hold of someone in the media.
It is all still rumor at this point, but it is food for thought.

Not getting Bentley is disappointing, but I'd be fine with Mawae. He's older but he'll also be a lot cheaper than Bentley.

[Chargeroo]

Not getting Bentley is disappointing, but I'd be fine with Mawae. He's older but he'll also be a lot cheaper than Bentley.
I was real high on the idea of getting Bentley so I find this news to be a real downer. When you said Mawae would be cheaper, did you read that or is that just your own thought on it?

[cstu]

I was real high on the idea of getting Bentley so I find this news to be a real downer. When you said Mawae would be cheaper, did you read that or is that just your own thought on it?

My thoughts based on how aggressively Bentley is being pursued. I think Bentley will end up with a much bigger bonus than the $11.5 million that he was rumored to want.

[Podium]

I wanted Bentley as a Guard, so Mawae doesn't matter much.

Think about it this way, Hardwick's coming into his third year now, and is still improving, he's got his 3rd O-line coach, give him some time. Henry is alot like Houck by all accounts.

Hardwick's skill set at his salary or Mawae's skill set (and injury-proneness lately) at the salary he'll probably want?

I'll stick with Hardwick, as long as the LT and depth are improved on the line. Maybe even a guard, that's a bigger need than center.

[BCBoltFan]

dont forget about brees being kicked out the door so Baby boy rivers can play.
You're not helping!

[promiseland]

I wanted Bentley as a Guard, so Mawae doesn't matter much.

Think about it this way, Hardwick's coming into his third year now, and is still improving, he's got his 3rd O-line coach, give him some time. Henry is alot like Houck by all accounts.

Hardwick's skill set at his salary or Mawae's skill set (and injury-proneness lately) at the salary he'll probably want?

I'll stick with Hardwick, as long as the LT and depth are improved on the line. Maybe even a guard, that's a bigger need than center.


Not if he keeps getting pushed around. I'm one of those people who thinks Hardwick really benifited from having Houck. After Houck left Hardwick started playing like a 3rd round pick, instead of the "steal" we all thought he was .

[Podium]

Not if he keeps getting pushed around. I'm one of those people who thinks Hardwick really benifited from having Houck. After Houck left Hardwick started playing like a 3rd round pick, instead of the "steal" we all thought he was .

Yeah exactly. Houck was more of a teacher, where Mauck was the RAH-RAH YOU'RE AN ******* type of coach. From what I've read Henry is a teacher like Houck, which should help Hardwick.

[nEoQuIcKsiLvEr]

http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/sports/14004579.htm

Doesn't look like we're going to get him anymore. The Chargers need to go out and get some FA's at the positions we need!

[Podium]

When did it ever look like we were going to get him? No one in the organization ever mentioned Bentley, no reports mentioned Bentley and the Chargers. This was all WISHFUL THINKING by us, the fans of this forum.

[IgorUnchained]

Noone from the organization ever said "we are going after Bentley", but did you expect them to? AJ hasnt told us who he is going to draft either, but I assume he will participate in the draft for the teams sake.

1) O line is the teams biggest weak link right now
2) Bentley is the best O line prospect right now
3) The Bolts have the 5th best salary cap numbers in the league right now, after taking care of Osgood, Cesaire, Pinnock, and Hart (at least)
4) The Bolts have Bentley's old O line coach and the best RB in the game.

While noone said that we were looking at Bentley, common sense would say THAT WE SHOULD.

I dont know what is worse, a poster assuming that the Bolts would look to make a big move when they are in good shape to do so, or when the "common sense" argument is that it probably isnt even an option in "AJ world".

;)

[Thunderstruck]

When did it ever look like we were going to get him? No one in the organization ever mentioned Bentley, no reports mentioned Bentley and the Chargers. This was all WISHFUL THINKING by us, the fans of this forum.

Just like all the Dolphins fans who think Brees is in their future. ;)

[bolts4ever21]

I'll wait to see what is going to happen. I really want Bentley here. If he is looking for a team right on the cusp (sp) of winning, he should come here. I really hope that he does love his old oline coach and that he would like to continue to work with him.

It's just a wait and see thing. The fact that we are fanatics about what is going to happen is what kills us. We can't just sit and wait like the ordinary fan. But that's why we are here. We love it that much.

Get Bentley....

[BCBoltFan]

When did it ever look like we were going to get him? No one in the organization ever mentioned Bentley, no reports mentioned Bentley and the Chargers. This was all WISHFUL THINKING by us, the fans of this forum.
Just like in Philly huh?!
No one in the "Organization" has mentioned any player have they? Just o-line help, amongst other areas. So what's wrong with wishful thinking and hoping for possibly signing one of the best o-line players available?

[Boltfan92153]

Yes, and there are tampering rules for talking to/about players and your team before FA starts

[Podium]

Just like in Philly huh?!
No one in the "Organization" has mentioned any player have they? Just o-line help, amongst other areas. So what's wrong with wishful thinking and hoping for possibly signing one of the best o-line players available?

There's nothing wrong with it BC. But, I just don't wanna see the scene when Bentley doesn't sign here and this board is going to be pissed because AJ let us down and isn't doing his job and not pursuing FA's hard enough.

(and if this is true, it doesn't look like the Chargers would have a shot at him anyway because Bentley's strong desire to play in Philly)

[Chargeroo]

There's nothing wrong with it BC. But, I just don't wanna see the scene when Bentley doesn't sign here and this board is going to be pissed because AJ let us down and isn't doing his job and not pursuing FA's hard enough.

(and if this is true, it doesn't look like the Chargers would have a shot at him anyway because Bentley's strong desire to play in Philly)
You sound like a moderator now. :)

I wonder why he has the strong interest in playing in Philly? Maybe he or his wife are from that area?

[Podium]

You sound like a moderator now. :)

I wonder why he has the strong interest in playing in Philly? Maybe he or his wife are from that area?

He's from Ohio Roo, that's why some of us thought Cleveland and Cincinatti (who were reported to have interest) would be likely landing points for him.

[IgorUnchained]

There's nothing wrong with it BC. But, I just don't wanna see the scene when Bentley doesn't sign here and this board is going to be pissed because AJ let us down and isn't doing his job and not pursuing FA's hard enough.

(and if this is true, it doesn't look like the Chargers would have a shot at him anyway because Bentley's strong desire to play in Philly)


I heard the same thing last year....half of the board shouting the other half down....making condescending remarks, telling us what to worry about and when to panic.

Remember how we didnt make the playoffs last season? It turns out that that opinion was flawed and left little room for error. So can the "lets sign some folks" get a little less grief from the "trust in AJ's for a while"?

I mean really....we tried those ways, they didnt pay off.....maybe we can be entitled to our opinions this offseason. :Beer:

[Podium]

I heard the same thing last year....half of the board shouting the other half down....making condescending remarks, telling us what to worry and when to panic.

Remember how we didnt make the playoffs last season? It turns out that that opinion was flawed and left little room for error. So can the "lets sign some folks" get a little less grief from the "trust in AJ's for a while"?

I mean really....we tried those ways, they didnt pay off.....maybe we can be entitled to our opinions this offseason. :Beer:

True Igor:Beer:

But me and you have both said that if you're gonna argue something, make sure you have the right arguments to back it up.

And people burning AJ and the front office for not signing Bentley probably won't consider the fact that before Bentley saw one offer from any team (including Philly) he was near-committed to them. If the guy doesn't wanna sign here, he doesn't wanna sign here.

I would have LOVED to have him though. The second I heard that we got Henry as our new Oline coach, I thought about how much of a better chance we had to sign Bentley. Sunday 9:01:00 PM PST, let the fun begin http://www.clublakers.com/forums/images/smiles/jam2.gif (javascript:emoticon(':jam2:'))http://www.clublakers.com/forums/images/smiles/jam2.gif (javascript:emoticon(':jam2:'))

[BCBoltFan]

There's nothing wrong with it BC. But, I just don't wanna see the scene when Bentley doesn't sign here and this board is going to be pissed because AJ let us down and isn't doing his job and not pursuing FA's hard enough.

(and if this is true, it doesn't look like the Chargers would have a shot at him anyway because Bentley's strong desire to play in Philly)
I hear ya'. I was just being my usual smart ass self when I mentioned Bently.

No CBA, delay on FA signings and maybe Bentley not becoming a Charger. :mad:
Not a good start to the weekend!

I agree, some members here get too worked up for certain moves and flip out when they don't happen. Not saying that FO always makes the best moves, but overall AJ and team have a better idea of the overall program than us fans.
Hopefully Bentley to philly is just a rumor and he does become a Charger! :Helmet:

[Podium]

I hear ya'. I was just being my usual smart ass self when I mentioned Bently.



I agree, some members here get too worked up for certain moves and flip out when they don't happen. Not saying that FO always makes the best moves, but overall AJ and team have a better idea of the overall program than us fans.
Hopefully Bentley to philly is just a rumor and he does become a Charger! :Helmet:

I'm hoping the same thing. Karma should dictate that the Eagles suffer for making us sit through that soap opera they called a season.

[Lyi]

i live in philly, and today in the sports section of the paper, it talks about how lecharles bentley wants to become an eagle. the article said he would of signed already but the whole salary cap thing. if you go to philly.com you can read the article.

[IgorUnchained]

[QUOTE=Podium]True Igor:Beer:

But me and you have both said that if you're gonna argue something, make sure you have the right arguments to back it up.

And people burning AJ and the front office for not signing Bentley probably won't consider the fact that before Bentley saw one offer from any team (including Philly) he was near-committed to them. If the guy doesn't wanna sign here, he doesn't wanna sign here.

I would have LOVED to have him though. The second I heard that we got Henry as our new Oline coach, I thought about how much of a better chance we had to sign Bentley. Sunday 9:01:00 PM PST, let the fun begin


If he doesnt want to sign here, or the "cosmic hands at work" dont see fit to grant us the privelege of landing Bentley....I'm not going to complain one bit. What I am trying to say is that there are 2 things in this world:
1)Things you can change
2)Things you can not change

As I have stated before, The Bolts are in better cap shape than the Eagles and we have his old O line coach and the best RB in the league.....if he is dead set on playing for the worst fans in football in the cold, I will wish him good luck and move on!
But if he doesnt get signed because the front office is sitting on it's hands, I might dignify you all with my thoughts on the matter.....and if anyone calls it whining I will probably get banned! ;) :Beer: