One would think that a two-time Super Bowl winning quarterback would have access to the finer things in life: gorgeous models, the inside track to A-list parties, private rooms at the most exclusive clubs — basically perks that the average 21-year-old frat kid dreams of.
Instead, while the Tom Bradys and Derek Jeters of the world are very privately maximizing their star power, Roethlisberger is waltzing around the small town of Milledgeville, GA trying to steal that 21-year-old frat kid’s girlfriend. And she’s only 20.
Remember the lame upperclassman/alumni who used to come back around to party after he graduated?
Throughout the months of February and March, Bump and Run will break down the needs of each NFL team as free agency and the draft approaches. Today, it’s the NFC West:
Arizona Cardinals: Hall-of-Fame quarterback: OUT. Party boy, D-list celebrity: IN. How scary is that if you’re a Cards fan? Matt Leinart will have the first crack at keeping Arizona atop of the NFC West, but the gap is quickly closing. The release of S Antrel Rolle and anticipated departure of LB Karlos Dansby puts the defense in a tough spot.
Key Unrestricted Free Agents: Karlos Dansby, LB; Antrel Rolle, S; Neil Rackers, PK.
Throughout the month of February, Bump and Run will break down the needs of each NFL team as free agency and the draft approaches. Today, we’re breaking down the NFC South:
Atlanta Falcons: After making the playoffs in Mike Smith’s first season as head coach, the Falcons took a small step back in 2009 (though they did post back-to-back winning seasons for the first time ever). Look for GM Thomas Dimitroff to pursue a playmaker on defense to complement DE John Abraham. On offense, Matty Ice should be able to generate 20-28 points per game with what he’s got. Adding another reliable pass catcher wouldn’t hurt though.
Key Unrestricted Free Agents: Chris Redman, QB;
Key Restricted Free Agents: Jason Snelling, RB; Jerious Norwood, RB.
Throughout the month of February, Bump and Run will break down the needs of each NFL team as free agency and the draft approaches. Today, we tackle the NFC North:
Chicago Bears: The Bears have some holes to fill on both sides of the ball, but getting Jay Cutler a stud WR is priority #1. New offensive coordinator Mike Martz will want to stretch the field, but he’ll need the toys to do so. On defense, plain and simple: that secondary needs a fixin’. The return of Brian Urlacher should give the linebacking corps the jolt they were lacking in 2009.
Key Unrestricted Free Agents: Adelwale Ogunleye, DE; John Tait, OT.
It’s widely expected that the Philadelphia Eagles will attempt to trade quarterback Michael Vick at some point this offseason. Where to? We’re glad you asked – here are three logical destinations for #7:
Buffalo Bills: After trying to woo both Mike Shanahan and Bill Cowher into being their head football coach, the Buffalo Bills ended up settling on retread Chan Gailey; not exactly the big name Bills fans were hoping for. Let’s face it, not even the acquisition of Terrell Owens last season was enough to put the lowly Bills on the map. The only way Gailey and GM Buddy Nix can resurrect this once proud franchise is to make drastic changes, and quickly. Why not take a flier on Michael Vick? He has more playoff appearances than the Bills have had this decade (2-0) and Trent Edwards proved last season that he wasn’t ready to take over the reins. In other words, it can’t get much worse.
St. Louis Rams: It makes so much sense it’s stupid.The Rams were 1-15 last season, lack any shread of an identity and are in the middle of being sold. Tell me how this isn’t set-up to be the ultimate redemption story for both sides? Head coach Steve Spagnolo is trying to build a respectable defense and desparetely needs a competent signal caller on offense to help score points. Hell, they ended last season with some guy named Null under center. Vick would benefit by playing eight home games on the fast track of the Edward Jones Dome, plus three away games in controlled climates (Arizona, New Orleans and Detroit).
Washington Redskins: Quick story, and take it for what it’s worth – a credible source and buddy of mine met Michael Vick at the W hotel in New York City a few weeks ago. He said Vick was very respectful and that they chatted in the lobby for a few minutes. My buddy asked Vick where he saw himself in 2010. Vick replied that his agent was telling him Washington. First, do I believe this conversation went down? One-hundred percent yes – I wouldn’t post it if I didn’t. Second, do I believe Vick could end up with the Redskins? Eh. In some ways it makes sense: Vick is from Virginia, played his college ball at Tech and would be playing in front of fans in Northern Virginia that are by and large Hokie alumni. But did you catch Mike Shanahan’s introductory press conference? He may have me fooled, but it seemed like he thinks he can win with Jason Campbell. Stay tuned…
