Keller isn't exactly a world beater. He was drafted to be a receiving TE, developed into an average at best blocker, and has been unreliable as a receiver. Main outlet for Sanchez true, but that had as much to do with the inconsistent talent that Sanchez has had to work with as it has with Keller's talent. Keller is average in all respects. Certainly not worth a Pro Bowl contract, which is what Keller considers himself to be.
I agree 100%...i think in the right system with the right surrounding talent Keller could put up some really solid numbers. But the Jets just aren't the team for that.
I think if Keller was asking for a reasonable salary he'd be resigned already, since I think he can succeed in this new offense as you're suggesting. I think the problem is purely what Keller is asking for at this point. There are way too many players associated with the Jets right now, to be back or not, that have a mercenary approach to contract negotiation. Idzik will likely put a stop to that this offseason even if it costs us any hope this upcoming season (of which there was very little to begin with).
http://www.ganggreennation.com/2013/3/8/4079970/an-introduction-to-hayden-smith Nice article on smith
i agree with you. that is exactly what idzik is doing, and it is long overdue. guys look at what is going on with revis and holmes, and wonder (harris, suckchise) who is going to be next. the paycheck has been too far above the results produced.:sad:
With the Gronk and Hernandez both showing themselves to be injury prone, I'd bet my neighbor's daughter that Belicheck would be the FIRST to jump on Keller if he walks. Especially with Welker getting older and possibly on his way out. Brady to Keller/Gronk would be very very lethal.
Dude, it's league wide. I'll spell it out one more time. When the new CBA was negotiated, there were two sides. One, the owners had acquired wealth in various ways....but had attorneys and advisors, well versed in telling them how to keep it. The NFLPA had Dee Smith, a pretty good lawyer, but not in that class. The NFLPA was seduced into adopting a rookie cap, screwing guys that were not yet in the NFL, because they thought they would benefit. Snookered. Now, GMs are placing a renewed emphasis on the draft, since a pass first league relies on speed and athleticism (remember who made these rules) And now. Veterans n their third and usually bloated contracts are FLOODING the FA market at every position. Simple supply and demand now applies. Want a 43 edge rusher...John Abrham needs work. Need a Safetey? While Laron is looking to get paid, his brother needs work. A week ago, Revis said it would be great to play in SF...then his agents got ahold of him, and he wants to remain a Jet.
For those who came away unimpressed by Cumberland last year, put aside the fact that the entire O sucked, if you think about it last year was essentially his rookie year. It was his first year getting significant playing time and first year following a major injury. He still has the potential to get better.
Always liked the kid coming out of ILL. Hopefully he continues to play better and continues to try and block
glad we signed the stop gap I was hoping for in Winslow to complement him. As of today, also curious to see what Sudfeld does.
I said this in the Geno thread, but Cumberland is a huge mismatch. I really would like to see him be more involved. He is too big for a safety and he will outrun any linebacker. He almost has WR speed at 260 pounds. Once he gets going, its hard to stay with him. It seems like Geno likes throwing to him. He obviously had 2 great passes vs the Falcons, another TD vs the Titans, and one of his best throws all year vs the Bucs where Cumberland was hit helmet to helmet and was concussed. Julius Thomas and Jordan Cameron are receiving a ton of recognition around the league as upcoming stars with great athleticism, but I dont see why Cumberland cant be put on a similar tier if given the opportunity.
It's funny how we came into this season thinking we had no playmakers on offense especially at the TE position. Cumberland, Winslow, Kearly, Powell & Tone seem to be making plays. Add to that Hill making strides and Goodson showing a little spark last night and we've got some excitement on offense.
It's been my biggest desire, a tall athletic TE in the mold of a Graham or Gronk. Loved that kid Toilolo out of Stanford as a mid to late round pick, Atlanta got a good one there. This would be such a huge bonus if Cumberland is that type of guy. _
Cumberland should be a 50+ catch guy. No reason he isn't getting at least 3 catches a game. You get a TE involved that much every game it opens up so much.
