Trusting Ballard, as I am merely a fan

[ukcolt]

I love the Colts, I like to think that I know the guys on the roster and how they have played when they suit up in the games. But that is all I or we as fans know, the make up of the players, their medical conditions, attitudes, personality, outside personal issues, are things we have zero access to, so I will trust in the Colts personnel staff when it comes to building the roster.

At the end of last year everyone could see that we needed a starting QB due to Rivers retirement, they made a pre draft trade to bring in Wentz. Castonzo retired, so a huge need was left there, in free agency they have brought in two guys Tevi and Davenport, both of whom have had significant starting experience, I suspect neither are close to the ability level of Castonzo, but they have seen significant game time. We lost Autry and Houston, and have replaced them with Rochelle, and our top two draft picks. Hooker is likely not to be resigned, and we have signed Sean Davis and drafted Shaun Davis. Trey Burton, has been replaced with a productive receiving TE, which fits exactly the sort of player to compliment our existing TE room. Anthony Walker has left, but I think most people have felt comfortable with our backups being ready to step up anyway.

The draft has also brought in a big receiver to compete as a depth player and the same with a promising experienced college QB. And finally added an interior offensive lineman to compete for the final roster spot.

I am content with how most of the issues that were prevalent at the end of last year have been addressed, barring maybe a top quality starting LT. But some resources have been thrown at the position. Maybe we could have looked at spending some draft capital at CB, as we have both Rhodes and Carrie who are closer to the ends of their careers than the beginning.

Overall though I believe management have been able to inject some quality youth into the roster, and we still have some cap space to potentially pick up a LT in free agency or during cut down. I believe going forward we will be better than we were last year, predominantly because we were already a relatively young/inexperienced roster, who have all gained another year of experience and they will get a full offseason, hopefully with a training camp to develop even further. We have lost some experience with Rivers, Castonzo, Houston, Autry and Walker, but we still have a very good group of leaders at those positions, Nelson and Kelly on the offensive line, Buckner is the leader of the defensive line, and Leonard clearly for the linebackers, these were all already the leaders of these groups anyway, so not too much of a hit in my opinion.

Onwards and upwards towards the Superbowl hopefully is where we are headed.

[HoosierinFL]

I hope these 2 pass rushers pan out, because I'm totally underwhelmed by the rest of the picks. Esp that QB, I didn't see the point of that one, if we just want a camp arm, then one could be had as a UDFA.

I can only assume that Ballard was influenced by the superbowl. Tampa showed that a dominant pass rush is a winning formula in today's NFL. I've never seen Mahomes as flustered by a pass rush until that game. If we can get anywhere near that, I would think the offense can do what it needs to win - assuming Wentz is the guy, and assuming we find an acceptable LT.

[Chromeburn]

I hope these 2 pass rushers pan out, because I'm totally underwhelmed by the rest of the picks. Esp that QB, I didn't see the point of that one, if we just want a camp arm, then one could be had as a UDFA.

I can only assume that Ballard was influenced by the superbowl. Tampa showed that a dominant pass rush is a winning formula in today's NFL. I've never seen Mahomes as flustered by a pass rush until that game. If we can get anywhere near that, I would think the offense can do what it needs to win - assuming Wentz is the guy, and assuming we find an acceptable LT.

The last two teams Tampa played were missing their starting tackles. If anything it should hammer home how important LT is. Not to discount passrush because we need it too. But if our QB gets hurt, we aren’t going anywhere. So if we head into the season with Davenport and Tevi we are in trouble.

[apballin]

After watching the post draft presser and I feel a lot better love Ballards honesty, big on character and resilience which is exactly what Paye is and I’m sure they know more about these guys than I do, but I want a team full of resilient, hardworking, professional guys and that’s exactly what we have. They’ll sure up left tackle one way or another either way I’m proud to say this is my team, from the owner to Ballard to Reich to the team on the field I like where we’re at so I was disappointed in the draft in May but I’ll probably be ecstatic come January

[IndyNorm]

Playing armchair GM is part of being a fan. It's just odd that after prioritizing the OL in previous off seasons Ballard seems to have gone away from that this year. Maybe Davenport and Tevi are much better than we're giving them credit for, quality depth and human turnstile respectively, but at this point it's more likely that they are what they've been.

Also, for all of the great picks Ballard has made Edge has been one position where he has struggled despite spending some pretty high draft picks on it (CB being the other one that comes to mind). Hope Paye and Odeyingbo buck that trend, but I'm not going to hold my breath.

[Racehorse]

Playing armchair GM is part of being a fan. It's just odd that after prioritizing the OL in previous off seasons Ballard seems to have gone away from that this year. Maybe Davenport and Tevi are much better than we're giving them credit for, quality depth and human turnstile respectively, but at this point it's more likely that they are what they've been.

Also, for all of the great picks Ballard has made Edge has been one position where he has struggled despite spending some pretty high draft picks on it (CB being the other one that comes to mind). Hope Paye and Odeyingbo buck that trend, but I'm not going to hold my breath.

I am hoping that those guys were victims of circumstances, but will flourish around our linemen.

[njcoltfan]

I hope these 2 pass rushers pan out, because I'm totally underwhelmed by the rest of the picks. Esp that QB, I didn't see the point of that one, if we just want a camp arm, then one could be had as a UDFA.

I can only assume that Ballard was influenced by the superbowl. Tampa showed that a dominant pass rush is a winning formula in today's NFL. I've never seen Mahomes as flustered by a pass rush until that game. If we can get anywhere near that, I would think the offense can do what it needs to win - assuming Wentz is the guy, and assuming we find an acceptable LT.

The reason he was “flustered “ is because the Chiefs two starting TACKLES were out of the game!! Right now Sam Tevi is the starting tackle protecting Wentz’s blindside, God help him!!

[Chromeburn]

I am hoping that those guys were victims of circumstances, but will flourish around our linemen.

I wouldn’t get your hopes up. Chargers laughed at the Tevi turnstile comments last year when they played him. This year they let him go and drafted a LT with their first pick. They would rather start a rookie than have him there.

I don’t have a problem with what Ballard does, it what he doesn’t do that I find perplexing. We seem to go into every year with a hole on the roster and I don’t understand why. It certainly isn’t a lack of money. We have a QB with confidence issues and now his blindside is gonna be protected by backups. You can’t hide LT behind other positions, it’s on an island. You going to park a blocking TE there every play? That really limits you schematically. We got outmaneuvered in the draft. I really hope they bring in a better vet for the position.

[Dam8610]

We got outmaneuvered in the draft.

This is the problem I have. They got jumped in at least 3 rounds for OTs they wanted by their own admission. The talent they got isn't all that bad (not who I would've chosen, but I'm hoping they pan out now), but they entered the draft with a gaping hole at LT and they left the draft with a gaping hole at LT in the deepest OT class in a decade. That seems like poor planning, exacerbated by the fact that the last viable option in Round 2 was taken the pick before the Colts. Bottom line is Ballard gambled and lost, and now he has his work cut out for him to fill the gaping hole he left on the roster.

[JAFF]

This is the problem I have. They got jumped in at least 3 rounds for OTs they wanted by their own admission. The talent they got isn't all that bad (not who I would've chosen, but I'm hoping they pan out now), but they entered the draft with a gaping hole at LT and they left the draft with a gaping hole at LT in the deepest OT class in a decade. That seems like poor planning, exacerbated by the fact that the last viable option in Round 2 was taken the pick before the Colts. Bottom line is Ballard gambled and lost, and now he has his work cut out for him to fill the gaping hole he left on the roster.


Yeah lots of OTs. That doesnt mean quality.

[YDFL Commish]

ll of the OT's after Darrisaw were knocked for having short arms. This must be trait that Ballard really values in a LT. He did say that many of them looked like guards to him.

[Dam8610]

Yeah lots of OTs. That doesnt mean quality.

The 9 OTs drafted in the first two rounds of this year's draft (which, to clarify, are Sewell, Slater, Leatherwood, Darrisaw, Jenkins, Eichenberg, Little, Cosmi, and Radunz) will likely be Day 1 starters. Go back over the last few years and see how many OTs were drafted in the first two rounds and how many of those were Day 1 starters. Then you'll understand the depth of this class.

[Dam8610]

ll of the OT's after Darrisaw were knocked for having short arms. This must be trait that Ballard really values in a LT. He did say that many of them looked like guards to him.

Jenkins had adequate arms. That's the one that's going to endlessly frustrate me. He was the one that was too good to pass up at 21, not Paye.

[apballin]

The 9 OTs drafted in the first two rounds of this year's draft (which, to clarify, are Sewell, Slater, Leatherwood, Darrisaw, Jenkins, Eichenberg, Little, Cosmi, and Radunz) will likely be Day 1 starters. Go back over the last few years and see how many OTs were drafted in the first two rounds and how many of those were Day 1 starters. Then you'll understand the depth of this class.

This is where the variable we have no idea comes into play (character) so they’re sitting there in round 1 looking at Paye vs Darrisaw and I guarantee it came down to character, work ethic, coach ability

Ballard puts those above all so that part I’ll have to trust

I’d rather have the hard worker

[JAFF]

The 9 OTs drafted in the first two rounds of this year's draft (which, to clarify, are Sewell, Slater, Leatherwood, Darrisaw, Jenkins, Eichenberg, Little, Cosmi, and Radunz) will likely be Day 1 starters. Go back over the last few years and see how many OTs were drafted in the first two rounds and how many of those were Day 1 starters. Then you'll understand the depth of this class.

I will judge it after they play

[Dam8610]

This is where the variable we have no idea comes into play (character) so they’re sitting there in round 1 looking at Paye vs Darrisaw and I guarantee it came down to character, work ethic, coach ability

Ballard puts those above all so that part I’ll have to trust

I’d rather have the hard worker

If the choice was Paye vs Darrisaw that would be hard, but Teven Jenkins was on the board. That's a no brainer.

[Oldcolt]

Ballard agrees 100% with you. A no brainer it certainly was.

[IndyNorm]

If the choice was Paye vs Darrisaw that would be hard, but Teven Jenkins was on the board. That's a no brainer.

No brainer to go with Darrisaw over Paye. We have enough DL on the roster already who can't get to the QB, but no LTs who can block.

[apballin]

If the choice was Paye vs Darrisaw that would be hard, but Teven Jenkins was on the board. That's a no brainer.

We don’t get to interview teammates and family members and dig into these guys past the way Ballard and his team do

All I know is Paye was mocked as high as 11

Jenkins was a late first everywhere I looked

Tough to swallow but it was the right move

We’ll all be glad Paye was selected in the end

[Puck]

DAM!!!!!!!!! Did you listen to Ballards presser? He said NONE were legit LT's!!!!


NONE. NONE...NONE!!!!!! THEY WEREN'T TARGETS

He knows more than you do!!!!

GET OVER IT!!!!

[Dam8610]

DAM!!!!!!!!! Did you listen to Ballards presser? He said NONE were legit LT's!!!!


NONE. NONE...NONE!!!!!! THEY WEREN'T TARGETS

He knows more than you do!!!!

GET OVER IT!!!!

I highly doubt that he thought Rashawn Slater wasn't a LT, and if he did, that means he does have an arm criteria and it's unreasonable. For arms, 33" is what is needed to be a successful OT. A couple of the guys didn't hit the threshold (Carman Jackson and Liam Eichenberg specifically). Teven Jenkins did, and when you combine his testing and tape, passing on him seems like stubbornly sticking to criteria instead of trusting the evaluation. Maybe you're right and there's something in the medicals or character that I don't know about, but people talked about Kwity Paye being a Top 15 talent based on tape and testing (which is absolutely insane to me watching Paye's tape), in my opinion based on testing and tape, Teven Jenkins was a Top 15 talent in this class EASILY. Lining him up next to Nelson for the next decade would've been so fun to watch.

Also, of course he's going to come out and say he didn't really like any of the OTs in the class as LTs after his gamble backfired. Do you really expect him to come out and say "I gambled that one of the OTs worth taking would last to 54 and lost"? Of course he's not going to do that. I do think he was willing to roll those dice because Eric Fisher, Alejandro Villanueva, and Russell Okung still don't have 2021 teams. I doubt he honestly believes Sam Tevi is a starting LT.

[Racehorse]

I highly doubt that he thought Rashawn Slater wasn't a LT, and if he did, that means he does have an arm criteria and it's unreasonable. For arms, 33" is what is needed to be a successful OT. A couple of the guys didn't hit the threshold (Carman Jackson and Liam Eichenberg specifically). Teven Jenkins did, and when you combine his testing and tape, passing on him seems like stubbornly sticking to criteria instead of trusting the evaluation. Maybe you're right and there's something in the medicals or character that I don't know about, but people talked about Kwity Paye being a Top 15 talent based on tape and testing (which is absolutely insane to me watching Paye's tape), in my opinion based on testing and tape, Teven Jenkins was a Top 15 talent in this class EASILY. Lining him up next to Nelson for the next decade would've been so fun to watch.

Also, of course he's going to come out and say he didn't really like any of the OTs in the class as LTs after his gamble backfired. Do you really expect him to come out and say "I gambled that one of the OTs worth taking would last to 54 and lost"? Of course he's not going to do that. I do think he was willing to roll those dice because Eric Fisher, Alejandro Villanueva, and Russell Okung still don't have 2021 teams. I doubt he honestly believes Sam Tevi is a starting LT.
You really are stubborn, aren't you?

[JAFF]

DAM!!!!!!!!! Did you listen to Ballards presser? He said NONE were legit LT's!!!!


NONE. NONE...NONE!!!!!! THEY WEREN'T TARGETS

He knows more than you do!!!!

GET OVER IT!!!!

He’s watching more film

[apballin]

I highly doubt that he thought Rashawn Slater wasn't a LT, and if he did, that means he does have an arm criteria and it's unreasonable. For arms, 33" is what is needed to be a successful OT. A couple of the guys didn't hit the threshold (Carman Jackson and Liam Eichenberg specifically). Teven Jenkins did, and when you combine his testing and tape, passing on him seems like stubbornly sticking to criteria instead of trusting the evaluation. Maybe you're right and there's something in the medicals or character that I don't know about, but people talked about Kwity Paye being a Top 15 talent based on tape and testing (which is absolutely insane to me watching Paye's tape), in my opinion based on testing and tape, Teven Jenkins was a Top 15 talent in this class EASILY. Lining him up next to Nelson for the next decade would've been so fun to watch.

Also, of course he's going to come out and say he didn't really like any of the OTs in the class as LTs after his gamble backfired. Do you really expect him to come out and say "I gambled that one of the OTs worth taking would last to 54 and lost"? Of course he's not going to do that. I do think he was willing to roll those dice because Eric Fisher, Alejandro Villanueva, and Russell Okung still don't have 2021 teams. I doubt he honestly believes Sam Tevi is a starting LT.

I honestly feel like they didn’t expect Paye to be there and he made a difficult decision but stuck to his guns

Jenkins is big strong and nasty. Believe me I was pissed about this pick but the more I research the more I agree with it

Paye next to Buckner and Stewart should be just as nasty. Josh allen ran circles around our defense he singlehandedly beat us in the playoffs

Paye is a rare freak at a position of need, he played fucking running back in high school the dude was on the 4*100 track team he put up everson griffin type numbers on his pro day and his sack numbers are low because he played in a run heavy conference

I was pissed now I can’t wait for the first time he slams Henry

[IndyNorm]

DAM!!!!!!!!! Did you listen to Ballards presser? He said NONE were legit LT's!!!!


NONE. NONE...NONE!!!!!! THEY WEREN'T TARGETS

He knows more than you do!!!!

GET OVER IT!!!!

Yet Ballard thinks that Turnstile Tevi is good. Everyone has their shortcomings, and it looks like OT evaluation could be one of Ballards.

[IndyNorm]

I honestly feel like they didn’t expect Paye to be there and he made a difficult decision but stuck to his guns

Jenkins is big strong and nasty. Believe me I was pissed about this pick but the more I research the more I agree with it

Paye next to Buckner and Stewart should be just as nasty. Josh allen ran circles around our defense he singlehandedly beat us in the playoffs

Paye is a rare freak at a position of need, he played fucking running back in high school the dude was on the 4*100 track team he put up everson griffin type numbers on his pro day and his sack numbers are low because he played in a run heavy conference

I was pissed now I can’t wait for the first time he slams Henry

If Paye is so great the why the fuck did he never actually get to the QB in college?

[Luck4Reich]

You really are stubborn, aren't you?

There are others words besides stubborn that come to mind:D

[rcubed]

You really are stubborn, aren't you?


I believe there’s some truth in there though. Just my opinion but I think that Ballard was expecting to have better LTs available at 54. When he says “not prototypical LT” I read that as not good enough for 21, but he would have taken one at 54. Unfortunately there was run on LTs and all the decent ones were gone. Ballard chanced it and it didnt roll his way.

Hopefully paye will turn out good for the D, lots in the media seem to think so. I dont watch college football so that’s all I have to go one besides whats been said on this esteemed board.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[rm1369]

For me, whether Ballard miscalculated or he wasn’t as impressed with the options everyone else was is mostly irrelevant. What is relevant is that the team has a huge hole at LT and salary cap space. Does he work to correct the issue this year? Or does the team roll into the season risking their QB because Ballard didn’t find a clear enough win this offseason? That’s where I have had an issue with Ballard’s methods in the past - the constant look to the future at the expense of today. If he signs one of the vets I think there is little to complain about. If he doesn’t then I think there is valid reason to be pissed

[Ironshaft]

For me, whether Ballard miscalculated or he wasn’t as impressed with the options everyone else was is mostly irrelevant. What is relevant is that the team has a huge hole at LT and salary cap space. Does he work to correct the issue this year? Or does the team roll into the season risking their QB because Ballard didn’t find a clear enough win this offseason? That’s where I have had an issue with Ballard’s methods in the past - the constant look to the future at the expense of today. If he signs one of the vets I think there is little to complain about. If he doesn’t then I think there is valid reason to be pissed

100% agree.

Lots of complaining on here but we have not seen the finished product yet.

Once we sign a vet OT, we are in great shape for an improved season.

[JAFF]

If Paye is so great the why the fuck did he never actually get to the QB in college?

Other big ten teams were better and Michigan hasnt been very good on either side of the ball. Takes 22 guys, not just one. If Mich. cant stop the run, hard to shine as a Pass rusher. Maybe he needed some help?

How did the Colts find Mainiac at SC state. All the bowl games they played? How did Leonard drop to the second round?

Its not scientific, there is a lot of unmeasurable factors that are used.

[njcoltfan]

If Paye is so great the why the fuck did he never actually get to the QB in college?

Bigger question, why did he last to pick 21 ?

[Oldcolt]

Maybe, just maybe Paye isn’t a finished product. Maybe he was taught run stopping technique in college and hasn’t learned the pass rush just yet. Maybe you are not that good at projecting what Paye. can do with coaching or maybe he is just crap. We will find out but I’m betting with Ballard on this.

[apballin]

If Paye is so great the why the fuck did he never actually get to the QB in college?

Big ten teams run the ball primarily

[Luck4Reich]

Big ten teams run the ball primarily

It doesn't matter what facts you point out, the bitching will continue until he gets his 10 plus sacks. Lol

[Chromeburn]

Bigger question, why did he last to pick 21 ?

5 QBs in the top 15. No absolute dominant top 5 pass rusher this year. A top 5 TE. Pennei Sewell dropped to 7 which should not happen in a normal year.

[Chromeburn]

It doesn't matter what facts you point out, the bitching will continue until he gets his 10 plus sacks. Lol

He needs 8 if he is a direct replacement for Houston or Autry. Which is a tall order for a rookie.

[Chromeburn]

Maybe, just maybe Paye isn’t a finished product. Maybe he was taught run stopping technique in college and hasn’t learned the pass rush just yet. Maybe you are not that good at projecting what Paye. can do with coaching or maybe he is just crap. We will find out but I’m betting with Ballard on this.

His responsibilities differ at Michigan than what they will be here. He was asked to set the edge at Michigan first, which he did well. Then asked to go. On passing downs he showed good speed and ability to get the tackles hands off him. But they were a run stop oriented defense first and the B1G runs a lot. He is far from polished in the pass rush area, but he shows promise and that ever valuable quick first step. He will be asked to just rush upfield a lot in Indy. No checks offs, no reads, just go.

[Chromeburn]

For me, whether Ballard miscalculated or he wasn’t as impressed with the options everyone else was is mostly irrelevant. What is relevant is that the team has a huge hole at LT and salary cap space. Does he work to correct the issue this year? Or does the team roll into the season risking their QB because Ballard didn’t find a clear enough win this offseason? That’s where I have had an issue with Ballard’s methods in the past - the constant look to the future at the expense of today. If he signs one of the vets I think there is little to complain about. If he doesn’t then I think there is valid reason to be pissed

Other teams think some of those guys are LTs. Some will work out. To me that is what he gets paid for, to identify those players. But if they didn’t like any of them, then that’s their opinion. I agree we have a huge hole there now and we knew it was coming as an issue. Have to see what he does, still plenty of time. But if we go into the season with Tevi as the LT, I’ll see it as a failure. Unless the guy has some miraculous turnaround.

[Brylok]

Other teams think some of those guys are LTs. Some will work out. To me that is what he gets paid for, to identify those players. But if they didn’t like any of them, then that’s their opinion. I agree we have a huge hole there now and we knew it was coming as an issue. Have to see what he does, still plenty of time. But if we go into the season with Tevi as the LT, I’ll see it as a failure. Unless the guy has some miraculous turnaround.

What gets me is that Castonzo hinted at retirement two years ago. The Colts should have been looking to bring in a replacement back then, draft pick or however. Now we're screwed with Tevi in that spot. The Colts HAVE to bring somebody in. Fischer, maybe that dude the Bears are letting go... someone.

[Chromeburn]

What gets me is that Castonzo hinted at retirement two years ago. The Colts should have been looking to bring in a replacement back then, draft pick or however. Now we're screwed with Tevi in that spot. The Colts HAVE to bring somebody in. Fischer, maybe that dude the Bears are letting go... someone.

We’ve had two LT drafts in a row. Last years draft had a ton of talent. But we would have to trade up. Plus we had QB which was a bit more pressing. That’s one of the issues with mainly using the draft. It’s hard to fill your long term positions. And if you miss on something, you have to use a future pick to cover your miss. No one bats 1000 on the draft.

Greg Doyle wasn’t to kind this week

https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/columnists/gregg-doyel/2021/05/03/indianapolis-colts-2021-offseason-has-been-failure/4916035001/

Fisher is a good bet, but when will he be healthy? If they didn’t like anyone in the draft, why not go for a better player in FA. Still off season isn’t over yet.

[Brylok]

We’ve had two LT drafts in a row. Last years draft had a ton of talent. But we would have to trade up. Plus we had QB which was a bit more pressing. That’s one of the issues with mainly using the draft. It’s hard to fill your long term positions. And if you miss on something, you have to use a future pick to cover your miss. No one bats 1000 on the draft.

Greg Doyle wasn’t to kind this week

https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/columnists/gregg-doyel/2021/05/03/indianapolis-colts-2021-offseason-has-been-failure/4916035001/

Fisher is a good bet, but when will he be healthy? If they didn’t like anyone in the draft, why not go for a better player in FA. Still off season isn’t over yet.

He has a torn Achilles from what I've read. I'd go after the guy the Bears are letting go. He'd be miles ahead of what we currently have.

[YDFL Commish]

Other big ten teams were better and Michigan hasnt been very good on either side of the ball. Takes 22 guys, not just one. If Mich. cant stop the run, hard to shine as a Pass rusher. Maybe he needed some help?

How did the Colts find Mainiac at SC state. All the bowl games they played? How did Leonard drop to the second round?

Its not scientific, there is a lot of unmeasurable factors that are used.

Also, Michigan line him up a lot in a 3-3 alignment.

[HoosierinFL]

Also, Michigan line him up a lot in a 3-3 alignment.

And from what I understand, he was basically the only real "guy" on the Michigan defense, so opposing teams would plan on double or triple teaming him.
That's what I've read anyway, I just don't watch enough college ball to back that up.

[YDFL Commish]

And from what I understand, he was basically the only real "guy" on the Michigan defense, so opposing teams would plan on double or triple teaming him.
That's what I've read anyway, I just don't watch enough college ball to back that up.

He was. When you watch the tape, the rest of the line may just as well been invisible.

[Luck4Reich]

He was. When you watch the tape, the rest of the line may just as well been invisible.

He was still disruptive, can't wait to see him on the line with Buckner an Co. I think he puts up some special numbers. He will be in the conversation for DROY.

[Puck]

He was still disruptive, can't wait to see him on the line with Buckner an Co. I think he puts up some special numbers. He will be in the conversation for DROY.

We'd have been better off with a punter

-signed Dam

[Dam8610]

We'd have been better off with a punter

-signed Dam

That's just absurd. Further, I'd like to see you say that Teven Jenkins is equivalent value to a punter to his face. Considering the way he mauls people on the field, that might be amusing.

[Puck]

That's just absurd. Further, I'd like to see you say that Teven Jenkins is equivalent value to a punter to his face. Considering the way he mauls people on the field, that might be amusing.


Exactly what I think when I read your posts about all this

[apballin]

Could be interesting real quick to see Paye lineup vs Radunz (Titans)then Little (jags)if either get on the field

[Dam8610]

Exactly what I think when I read your posts about all this

I took the time to form my own informed opinions, I'm not just going to give them up for the sake of groupthink or some notion that my opinion must be wrong because Ballard has a different opinion. Time will tell on all of this. But I don’t think Ballard or the Colts organization are above criticism as it seems almost everyone except Chromeburn here does. I think they made a bad decision, and I think it has the potential to be Bjoren Werner level bad or Phillip Dorsett over Landon Collins level bad, or both because they took a traited up DE over a guy who I think will be a 10 year starter at LT in the NFL. The potential negative outcomes here massively outweigh the potential positive outcomes, that's what I don't like. Also, this is nothing personal against Paye. After hearing his story, I'm 1000% on board with him becoming the next great Colts pass rusher, and I'd love to see it happen, but he has a long road to get there, and the realist in me looks at his film and it screams bust. Hopefully that desire and will to succeed that he oozes will prevail in the end, but this pick is going to look really bad if Paye busts out and Jenkins is a 10+ year fixture at LT for a Bears team that is a perennial contender with Fields at the helm.

[Brylok]

I'm going to keep my mouth shut as best I can, but I still can't believe that Tevi is the answer at LT. I expect something to be done about it other than "scheme". You can't hide a bad LT for 17 games. Hell, all I want to do is win the division. It's been years since we have.

[albany ed]

At the end of last season, the Colts appeared to have 3 big needs for the coming season, as well as many smaller wants.

1. QB - with Rivers being done, the Colts went and got Wentz. Let's hope we get the good Wentz and not the bad one

2. DE - improve the pass rush with a force at DE. I'm optimistic that Paye fits the bill

3. LT - to me, a very important need. We have what appears to be a great running game, I'd hate to see it fail due to a glaring weakness on the left side of the line.


2 out of 3 major needs have been addressed. Hold on to your hats, it's gonna be a bumpy ride, but it will be fun, and in the end, that's good enough for me.

[Ironshaft]

At the end of last season, the Colts appeared to have 3 big needs for the coming season, as well as many smaller wants.

1. QB - with Rivers being done, the Colts went and got Wentz. Let's hope we get the good Wentz and not the bad one

2. DE - improve the pass rush with a force at DE. I'm optimistic that Paye fits the bill

3. LT - to me, a very important need. We have what appears to be a great running game, I'd hate to see it fail due to a glaring weakness on the left side of the line.


2 out of 3 major needs have been addressed. Hold on to your hats, it's gonna be a bumpy ride, but it will be fun, and in the end, that's good enough for me.
And with 4 quality veteran left tackles out there on the market whom are all in the same ballpark as Castonzo in terms of quality and performance, there is little doubt in my mind that we will fill the 3rd big hole on our roster as well.

Most rookie draft classes (7 picks) are going to cost around $6m in cap space for 2021. Spots 52 and 53 on the active in-season roster are going to cost around $2m. The 10 person practice squad is going to cost $2m for the season. In season churn space will be around $2-4m.

In total, teams need to have around $10-12m in free cap space just to sign their rookies, fill their roster, pay their practice squad and operate for the season.

Currently, 16 teams (half the league) have less than $10m in free cap space.
Another 4 teams have less than $15m of free cap space.

Ergo:

A) The market of teams with sufficient free cap space that can pay for a veteran left OT in free agency is not big. It is a bit of a waiting game to sign one IF you value all the tackles roughly equally because every day that passes probably lowers that hoped for compensation by agents and players.

B) Veteran cuts are not done yet.

The proof of whether this was a successful off-season will be measured by our week 1 roster and our week 18 record, not what is happening in March, April, May, June or July.

IF Tevi or Davenport are our starting week 1 left OT, I will LEAD the mob with pitchfork raised high when storming the Colts complex searching for Ballard's head.

Be patient, Freaks.

[apballin]

At the end of last season, the Colts appeared to have 3 big needs for the coming season, as well as many smaller wants.

1. QB - with Rivers being done, the Colts went and got Wentz. Let's hope we get the good Wentz and not the bad one

2. DE - improve the pass rush with a force at DE. I'm optimistic that Paye fits the bill

3. LT - to me, a very important need. We have what appears to be a great running game, I'd hate to see it fail due to a glaring weakness on the left side of the line.


2 out of 3 major needs have been addressed. Hold on to your hats, it's gonna be a bumpy ride, but it will be fun, and in the end, that's good enough for me.

Ahh without seeing the schedule I’m saying 14-3

[Puck]

I took the time to form my own informed opinions, I'm not just going to give them up for the sake of groupthink or some notion that my opinion must be wrong because Ballard has a different opinion. Time will tell on all of this. But I don’t think Ballard or the Colts organization are above criticism as it seems almost everyone except Chromeburn here does. I think they made a bad decision, and I think it has the potential to be Bjoren Werner level bad or Phillip Dorsett over Landon Collins level bad, or both because they took a traited up DE over a guy who I think will be a 10 year starter at LT in the NFL. The potential negative outcomes here massively outweigh the potential positive outcomes, that's what I don't like. Also, this is nothing personal against Paye. After hearing his story, I'm 1000% on board with him becoming the next great Colts pass rusher, and I'd love to see it happen, but he has a long road to get there, and the realist in me looks at his film and it screams bust. Hopefully that desire and will to succeed that he oozes will prevail in the end, but this pick is going to look really bad if Paye busts out and Jenkins is a 10+ year fixture at LT for a Bears team that is a perennial contender with Fields at the helm.


Or it could be the other way around

I get it you don't like the picks. But you have to live with it. Nothing you can do about it. RELAX!!! Ballard and Co still know more than any of us and I am 100% positive he has a plan

[Chromeburn]

And with 4 quality veteran left tackles out there on the market whom are all in the same ballpark as Castonzo in terms of quality and performance, there is little doubt in my mind that we will fill the 3rd big hole on our roster as well.

Most rookie draft classes (7 picks) are going to cost around $6m in cap space for 2021. Spots 52 and 53 on the active in-season roster are going to cost around $2m. The 10 person practice squad is going to cost $2m for the season. In season churn space will be around $2-4m.

In total, teams need to have around $10-12m in free cap space just to sign their rookies, fill their roster, pay their practice squad and operate for the season.

Currently, 16 teams (half the league) have less than $10m in free cap space.
Another 4 teams have less than $15m of free cap space.

Ergo:

A) The market of teams with sufficient free cap space that can pay for a veteran left OT in free agency is not big. It is a bit of a waiting game to sign one IF you value all the tackles roughly equally because every day that passes probably lowers that hoped for compensation by agents and players.

B) Veteran cuts are not done yet.

The proof of whether this was a successful off-season will be measured by our week 1 roster and our week 18 record, not what is happening in March, April, May, June or July.

IF Tevi or Davenport are our starting week 1 left OT, I will LEAD the mob with pitchfork raised high when storming the Colts complex searching for Ballard's head.

Be patient, Freaks.

You’re forgetting injuries happen also which cause teams to quickly sign a veteran. Also teams with that new rookie tackle may realize he is not ready for the task. And Villanueva is off the board now.

[Dam8610]

And with 4 quality veteran left tackles out there on the market whom are all in the same ballpark as Castonzo in terms of quality and performance, there is little doubt in my mind that we will fill the 3rd big hole on our roster as well.

Most rookie draft classes (7 picks) are going to cost around $6m in cap space for 2021. Spots 52 and 53 on the active in-season roster are going to cost around $2m. The 10 person practice squad is going to cost $2m for the season. In season churn space will be around $2-4m.

In total, teams need to have around $10-12m in free cap space just to sign their rookies, fill their roster, pay their practice squad and operate for the season.

Currently, 16 teams (half the league) have less than $10m in free cap space.
Another 4 teams have less than $15m of free cap space.

Ergo:

A) The market of teams with sufficient free cap space that can pay for a veteran left OT in free agency is not big. It is a bit of a waiting game to sign one IF you value all the tackles roughly equally because every day that passes probably lowers that hoped for compensation by agents and players.

B) Veteran cuts are not done yet.

The proof of whether this was a successful off-season will be measured by our week 1 roster and our week 18 record, not what is happening in March, April, May, June or July.

IF Tevi or Davenport are our starting week 1 left OT, I will LEAD the mob with pitchfork raised high when storming the Colts complex searching for Ballard's head.

Be patient, Freaks.

Oh there's definitely still opportunity for Ballard to address the LT spot and make the roster very complete going into the 2021 season, but there were several here that were insistent that a rookie deal was needed at LT, so I'm a bit surprised at the lack of criticism of Ballard passing/getting outplayed entirely on the deepest OT class in recent memory. If they sign a veteran LT and Paye and Odeyingbo pan out, bravo Ballard, but he's betting a lot on the potential of Paye over the production of Jenkins.

[Chromeburn]

Rumor going around we are interested in Mitchell Schwartz and Eric Fisher

[Luck4Reich]

Oh there's definitely still opportunity for Ballard to address the LT spot and make the roster very complete going into the 2021 season, but there were several here that were insistent that a rookie deal was needed at LT, so I'm a bit surprised at the lack of criticism of Ballard passing/getting outplayed entirely on the deepest OT class in recent memory. If they sign a veteran LT and Paye and Odeyingbo pan out, bravo Ballard, but he's betting a lot on the potential of Paye over the production of Jenkins.

The problem with this is neither have played an NFL game so you can't compare production yet.

[Spike]

I was going to type something on this, but instead, I will just post this video which I mostly agree with. I'm getting lazy, I guess.

This guy curses a lot, so for who don't like cursing, don't fucking watch it.

The one thing I will add is that a lot of the linemen selected in this draft are not true left tackles. Kwitty Paye was ranked as one of the top 20 draftees in this draft. If Ballard signs a veteran left tackle, which I hope the hell he does, then this offseason will be considered a success. And if Wentz gets back to his old self, then this offseason will have been a grand slam.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOTY5G0PMQE

[rcubed]

I was pretty irritated during the draft and hearing negative comments on paye didn’t help. Looking back after a couple days and assuming we sign one of the vet LTs I trust in ballard. If those two picks end up being disruptive it will be huge for the D.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Dam8610]

The problem with this is neither have played an NFL game so you can't compare production yet.

There are things you can see on tape that when you see them, you know they'll translate to the NFL. For Teven Jenkins, his handfighting is already NFL veteran quality, and his nasty streak will carry him in some games. When you combine that with his unexpectedly great athletic testing, it's not at all surprising that the Bears released a quality starting LT to replace him with Jenkins. You see the reasons on the tape. When I watch Kwity Paye's tape, I don't see anything that suggests instant impact starter or anything more than borderline Day 2 pick. That's what I mean by production vs. potential in this case.

[Spike]

There are things you can see on tape that when you see them, you know they'll translate to the NFL. For Teven Jenkins, his handfighting is already NFL veteran quality, and his nasty streak will carry him in some games. When you combine that with his unexpectedly great athletic testing, it's not at all surprising that the Bears released a quality starting LT to replace him with Jenkins. You see the reasons on the tape. When I watch Kwity Paye's tape, I don't see anything that suggests instant impact starter or anything more than borderline Day 2 pick. That's what I mean by production vs. potential in this case.

Boarderline day 2 pick, are you fucking serious? Some experts think that Jenkins is a damn good offensive linemen, as do I, but he has some issues when it comes to left tackle. I don't give a shit how nasty you are when other nasty elite defensive ends in the NFL are coming after your ass. I like Jenkins too, but he is probably more suited for right tackle or guard in the NFL. As far as the Bears releasing a quality starting LT, do you really think the fucking Bears know what they are doing? Those same shitheads drafted Trubisky with the 2nd overall pick.

Here is a video of something I totally agree with. That is Jenkins will struggle at LT. Do you really think that if Ballard really thought that Jenkins was at least at Castonzo's level, he wouldn't have taken him? Or at least moved up in the 2nd round to take him?

https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2021/05/04/teven-jenkins-chicago-bears-left-tackle-21021-nfl-draft/

[Dam8610]

Boarderline day 2 pick, are you fucking serious? Some experts think that Jenkins is a damn good offensive linemen, as do I, but he has some issues when it comes to left tackle. I don't give a shit how nasty you are when other nasty elite defensive ends in the NFL are coming after your ass. I like Jenkins too, but he is probably more suited for right tackle or guard in the NFL. As far as the Bears releasing a quality starting LT, do you really think the fucking Bears know what they are doing? Those same shitheads drafted Trubisky with the 2nd overall pick.

Here is a video of something I totally agree with. That is Jenkins will struggle at LT. Do you really think that if Ballard really thought that Jenkins was at least at Castonzo's level, he wouldn't have taken him? Or at least moved up in the 2nd round to take him?

https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2021/05/04/teven-jenkins-chicago-bears-left-tackle-21021-nfl-draft/

The film I saw for Jenkins showed a player who had the ability to kick slide well, handle speed, handle power, not over set to beat speed (which leads to inside losses), and has the technique and handfighting ability to deal with technically proficient pass rushers. The only question for me based on the film was did he have the athleticism to stick as a LT, primarily because he played RT in 2020. Then his testing came back and he has a RAS score of something like 9.74, which emphatically answered my question about his athleticism. I feel like those who think he can't stick at LT didn't really watch a lot of his film.

Regarding Paye's film, the next play I see of him making a good pass rush move or making a heady, instinctual play will be the first. I did see him chop step 4 times and let a RB run right by him through his gap for a 10+ yard gain against Penn State, though. All Paye has going for him is that he's a ball of traits that can potentially be molded into a quality pass rusher. I hope the Colts coaching staff is up to the task.

[Spike]

The film I saw for Jenkins showed a player who had the ability to kick slide well, handle speed, handle power, not over set to beat speed (which leads to inside losses), and has the technique and handfighting ability to deal with technically proficient pass rushers. The only question for me based on the film was did he have the athleticism to stick as a LT, primarily because he played RT in 2020. Then his testing came back and he has a RAS score of something like 9.74, which emphatically answered my question about his athleticism. I feel like those who think he can't stick at LT didn't really watch a lot of his film.

Regarding Paye's film, the next play I see of him making a good pass rush move or making a heady, instinctual play will be the first. I did see him chop step 4 times and let a RB run right by him through his gap for a 10+ yard gain against Penn State, though. All Paye has going for him is that he's a ball of traits that can potentially be molded into a quality pass rusher. I hope the Colts coaching staff is up to the task.

Yeah, you're probably right dam. All of the fucking scouts who get paid for a living are wrong on him. What the hell were they thinking that he was a top level talent. Those fucking idiots.

[Spike]

The film I saw for Jenkins showed a player who had the ability to kick slide well, handle speed, handle power, not over set to beat speed (which leads to inside losses), and has the technique and handfighting ability to deal with technically proficient pass rushers. The only question for me based on the film was did he have the athleticism to stick as a LT, primarily because he played RT in 2020. Then his testing came back and he has a RAS score of something like 9.74, which emphatically answered my question about his athleticism. I feel like those who think he can't stick at LT didn't really watch a lot of his film.

Regarding Paye's film, the next play I see of him making a good pass rush move or making a heady, instinctual play will be the first. I did see him chop step 4 times and let a RB run right by him through his gap for a 10+ yard gain against Penn State, though. All Paye has going for him is that he's a ball of traits that can potentially be molded into a quality pass rusher. I hope the Colts coaching staff is up to the task.

Okay, why the fuck was he playing RT instead of LT? I'll tell you why, he is not a good fit at LT. Would you not put your best tackle on the left side? Dam, you are making this too easy.

[JAFF]

Okay, why the fuck was he playing RT instead of LT? I'll tell you why, he is not a good fit at LT. Would you not put your best tackle on the left side? Dam, you are making this too easy.

Stop with the common sense. It has no effect.

[Racehorse]

Regarding Paye's film, the next play I see of him making a good pass rush move or making a heady, instinctual play will be the first. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nC5JRuafVzE

Here ya go. I thought you watched film.

[Dam8610]

Yeah, you're probably right dam. All of the fucking scouts who get paid for a living are wrong on him. What the hell were they thinking that he was a top level talent. Those fucking idiots.

I know you're not really saying the scouts have never gotten it wrong before. There are countless examples that show that to be wrong, because there are so many factors that can go wrong with any given prospect. Even the first round of the NFL draft has a 50% bust rate.

Okay, why the fuck was he playing RT instead of LT? I'll tell you why, he is not a good fit at LT. Would you not put your best tackle on the left side? Dam, you are making this too easy.

So Tyron Smith isn't a good LT? After all, USC played him at RT in college.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nC5JRuafVzE

Here ya go. I thought you watched film.

That highlight reel illustrates my point.

1) Most of it comes against the dregs of the B1G. None of it is against Ohio State.

2) Every sack is a situation where the OL failed to execute a block or the play got extended and Paye got off the block by chasing the ball and the OL wasn't athletic enough to keep up.

3) No real rush moves to speak of in that highlight reel, and barely any hand usage to get off blocks. Every play on that reel is pure athleticism. I said he's a ball of traits with no rush moves.

4) That's a highlight reel. It doesn't show the bad plays, like the aforementioned play against Penn State.

I hope the defensive coaches can take his traits and maximize them into a feared pass rusher, but Paye is all projection at this point.

[Luck4Reich]

I know you're not really saying the scouts have never gotten it wrong before. There are countless examples that show that to be wrong, because there are so many factors that can go wrong with any given prospect. Even the first round of the NFL draft has a 50% bust rate.



So Tyron Smith isn't a good LT? After all, USC played him at RT in college.



That highlight reel illustrates my point.

1) Most of it comes against the dregs of the B1G. None of it is against Ohio State.

2) Every sack is a situation where the OL failed to execute a block or the play got extended and Paye got off the block by chasing the ball and the OL wasn't athletic enough to keep up.

3) No real rush moves to speak of in that highlight reel, and barely any hand usage to get off blocks. Every play on that reel is pure athleticism. I said he's a ball of traits with no rush moves.

4) That's a highlight reel. It doesn't show the bad plays, like the aforementioned play against Penn State.

I hope the defensive coaches can take his traits and maximize them into a feared pass rusher, but Paye is all projection at this point.


Glad you mentioned Ohio State.... You inspired me to go watch that game... Just began the game.... Very first play Paye gets to Justin Fields and bust up the play leading to a sack.. he doesn't get credit for the sack but the sack never happens not for him. Second play they have him in coverage... Fields has no option in middle of field and forces down field into double coverage...... 3rd and long... They double team Paye ( why he is only a project..lol)... Yes they put two lineman on Paye and he still gets in Fields face... Fields makes incredible throw for a TD... Had they left one blocker on Paye he gets to Fields.... I will be watching the rest of the game since this is more of a measuring stick to you.... So far I see what Colts EXPERTS see and not what your basement dwelling ass sees...lol

[Luck4Reich]

Several said the coaches didn't know how to use Paye. Interesting on the 2nd drive of the game he wasn't in on the drive until 3rd down.... Yet again he gets in Fields face and incompletion is thrown... 4th down.

[Luck4Reich]

Just watched all of the Defensive series of the Ohio State and Michigan game.... Let me start of by saying I'm no expert at breaking down a game and never will claim to be.

But what I noticed is Damn Michigan had a very undersized line or at least looked that way.

Anytime you saw disruptiveness happen, Paye was usually the reason it happened. Had he not been on such a mismatched line he would had 3 sacks in this game alone..jmo.

A play stood out in 4th quarter... Paye is being blocked with help still gets through while being held and still gets to Fields. Fields gets ball out half a second before Paye crushes him to the ground.

He was double teamed a lot.... You can tell the Ohio St coaches were not worried about anyone on that Michigan defense... Except for Paye. Ran opposite side of him a lot as well.

Again I will Never claim to be an expert (leave that for the Dams of the world lol). I can definitely see why our scouts/coaches love him and had him so high on their boards.

Looking forward to him playing in a Colts uniform.

[Spike]

Just watched all of the Defensive series of the Ohio State and Michigan game.... Let me start of by saying I'm no expert at breaking down a game and never will claim to be.

But what I noticed is Damn Michigan had a very undersized line or at least looked that way.

Anytime you saw disruptiveness happen, Paye was usually the reason it happened. Had he not been on such a mismatched line he would had 3 sacks in this game alone..jmo.

A play stood out in 4th quarter... Paye is being blocked with help still gets through while being held and still gets to Fields. Fields gets ball out half a second before Paye crushes him to the ground.

He was double teamed a lot.... You can tell the Ohio St coaches were not worried about anyone on that Michigan defense... Except for Paye. Ran opposite side of him a lot as well.

Again I will Never claim to be an expert (leave that for the Dams of the world lol). I can definitely see why our scouts/coaches love him and had him so high on their boards.

Looking forward to him playing in a Colts uniform.

What the fuck Luck4Reich. Don't question dam, he's the fucking expert here. You drunk or what? LOL!

I get it with dam though, he really likes Jenkins and so do I, just not as a LT prospect. Seriously though, dam knows his football, he's just a bit misguided.

[Luck4Reich]

What the fuck Luck4Reich. Don't question dam, he's the fucking expert here. You drunk or what? LOL!

I get it with dam though, he really likes Jenkins and so do I, just not as a LT prospect. Seriously though, dam knows his football, he's just a bit misguided.

Haha.... Yeah I like Jenkins a lot too and had Ballard taken him I would have been ok with it.... I think Paye is going to be special. Obviously so does Ballard. Damn I'm ready for next season to get here.

[Chromeburn]

Haha.... Yeah I like Jenkins a lot too and had Ballard taken him I would have been ok with it.... I think Paye is going to be special. Obviously so does Ballard. Damn I'm ready for next season to get here.

Jenkins fell some because of medical issues. So did that Norte Dame linebacker.

[apballin]

Look Dam I get it, I was pissed too I watched all these highlights of Tackles on the draft because I was for sure that’s what we were drafting in round 1 or 2 all for nothing so yea fuck you Ballard for that but after it all I really like Paye dudes fast, relentless, and strong I have faith in a Robert Mathis consultant

[Spike]

Look Dam I get it, I was pissed too I watched all these highlights of Tackles on the draft because I was for sure that’s what we were drafting in round 1 or 2 all for nothing so yea fuck you Ballard for that but after it all I really like Paye dudes fast, relentless, and strong I have faith in a Robert Mathis consultant

There were only 2 good LT's on the board. Sewell and Slater. The rest were projects at the left tackle position. Darrisaw, fuck him, he takes plays off. Don't need that kind of shit on the Colts. I for one was not disapointed we didn't draft a project. Paye can change games for us, none of the rest of these oline guys can. I always look at the big picture, unlike dam. Do we need an upgrade at LT, YES! But you can't reach for one. Ballard needs to sign a free agent there. If he doesn't then I will be the first one there with a pitchfork.

[Dam8610]

What the fuck Luck4Reich. Don't question dam, he's the fucking expert here. You drunk or what? LOL!

I get it with dam though, he really likes Jenkins and so do I, just not as a LT prospect. Seriously though, dam knows his football, he's just a bit misguided.

I've never claimed to be an expert of any kind. I watch tape. I get measureable data to compare to the tape. I form opinions. I defend those opinions. If you don't like what I have to say on a player, no one is holding a gun to your head forcing you to read it. This is a fan forum at the end of the day, and one that doesn't limit its posts to rah-rah support. I wouldn't be here if it did. That means when I see something I disagree with, I'm probably going to point it out along with my reasoning for the disagreement. Like, for example, taking Paye over Jenkins. I thought that was a bad move because I think Jenkins could've been a monster LT for the Colts, especially lining up next to Nelson for the next decade, and I don't see Paye amounting to much. I hope Paye proves me wrong and Ballard fixes the roster by getting a LT because I root for the laundry at the end of the day, but I don't like the decision, and I'll dislike it even more if they don't address LT.

[Spike]

I've never claimed to be an expert of any kind. I watch tape. I get measureable data to compare to the tape. I form opinions. I defend those opinions. If you don't like what I have to say on a player, no one is holding a gun to your head forcing you to read it. This is a fan forum at the end of the day, and one that doesn't limit its posts to rah-rah support. I wouldn't be here if it did. That means when I see something I disagree with, I'm probably going to point it out along with my reasoning for the disagreement. Like, for example, taking Paye over Jenkins. I thought that was a bad move because I think Jenkins could've been a monster LT for the Colts, especially lining up next to Nelson for the next decade, and I don't see Paye amounting to much. I hope Paye proves me wrong and Ballard fixes the roster by getting a LT because I root for the laundry at the end of the day, but I don't like the decision, and I'll dislike it even more if they don't address LT.

dam, I like your posts. You are one of the best posters on this board. People take shots at you, just like they take shots at me. If you are ever in Central California, let me know, I'll buy you a beer or two. dam, I am with you on Jenkins , I fucking like the guy. But as a guard or right tackle, not as a left tackle. Hey, that's what this board is all about. We can agree to disagree.

[Ironshaft]

dam, I like your posts. You are one of the best posters on this board. People take shots at you, just like they take shots at me. If you are ever in Central California, let me know, I'll buy you a beer or two.
I have heard that he only drinks Milwaukee's Best or Red, White & Blue.

It should be pretty cheap for you to treat! :)

[Spike]

I have heard that he only drinks Milwaukee's Best or Red, White & Blue.

It should be pretty cheap for you to treat! :)

LOL!!! Anybody on this board who comes to central California, I would love to meet in person. I have a great bar only one block away. We can stagger our way back to my house, I have the room. Oh yeah, fuck Milwaukee's Best, you will be drinking better shit than that on my watch.

[Spike]

Here's my thought. Sign Fisher right now. Don't fuck around Ballard, just sign him. He's a better LT than anyone in the draft.

[apballin]

Here's my thought. Sign Fisher right now. Don't fuck around Ballard, just sign him. He's a better LT than anyone in the draft.

If he’s healthy if not get the Bears dude

[JAFF]

LOL!!! Anybody on this board who comes to central California, I would love to meet in person. I have a great bar only one block away. We can stagger our way back to my house, I have the room. Oh yeah, fuck Milwaukee's Best, you will be drinking better shit than that on my watch.

Central California? Fresno or Bakersfield? LOL

[HoosierinFL]

LOL!!! Anybody on this board who comes to central California, I would love to meet in person. I have a great bar only one block away. We can stagger our way back to my house, I have the room. Oh yeah, fuck Milwaukee's Best, you will be drinking better shit than that on my watch.

only if you can get me some Pliny!

[Racehorse]

I've never claimed to be an expert of any kind. I watch tape. I get measureable data to compare to the tape. I form opinions. I defend those opinions. If you don't like what I have to say on a player, no one is holding a gun to your head forcing you to read it. This is a fan forum at the end of the day, and one that doesn't limit its posts to rah-rah support. I wouldn't be here if it did. That means when I see something I disagree with, I'm probably going to point it out along with my reasoning for the disagreement. Like, for example, taking Paye over Jenkins. I thought that was a bad move because I think Jenkins could've been a monster LT for the Colts, especially lining up next to Nelson for the next decade, and I don't see Paye amounting to much. I hope Paye proves me wrong and Ballard fixes the roster by getting a LT because I root for the laundry at the end of the day, but I don't like the decision, and I'll dislike it even more if they don't address LT.

I was one of the fans hoping for Jenkins, too. However, I also like the Paye pick. We were in sore need of a pass rush, and had guys signed at OT to play if we didn't get the guy we wanted. For Paye to slip to 21 made it an easy choice, at the time. I still think we will be happy with the pick, plus happy with the line play this season after we get that spot filled.

[Spike]

Central California? Fresno or Bakersfield? LOL

Carmel.

[Butter]

only if you can get me some Pliny!

That is some seriously good stuff.

[UnitasMon]

Carmel.

I live in Carmel too.
No Colt Fans in CA.....

[rcubed]

Outside Los Angels. Newbury Park.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Spike]

I live in Carmel too.
No Colt Fans in CA.....

You, me, and Clint Eastwood need to go have a few beers together.

[RCAChainGang]

I see where some of the criticism is coming from. I am immediately excited about Paye as an edge defender and then to a lesser extent a pass rusher. From my evaluation he is excellent at engaging offensive lineman and ripping away to make a tackle oftentimes for a loss. He also routinely sets the edge and redirects running backs back into the mess to be gang tackled. Still, I see the pass rush potential and think he can develop there. He flashes from time to time. But in college so many of the plays are 1 read plays, so sacks are much harder to come by. I don't care as much about sack production on the college level.

I see Paye as a three down DE that can play rush, crash, or even inside. Had I been drafting though I would have selected Darrisaw.

@Spike - No way! I was just in Carmel for vacation. Wish I knew you were out there a week earlier!

[Oldcolt]

I also would have drafted Darrisaw. After reading that many project him as a RT I’m glad I’m not drafting for us I now love the defense line emphasis

[Dam8610]

I also would have drafted Darrisaw. After reading that many project him as a RT I’m glad I’m not drafting for us I now love the defense line emphasis

People are crazy. Darrisaw as RT only? Comical. That says to me that whoever is making those projections is not watching the tape. Saying Darrisaw doesn't finish blocks and plays like he should? That's a fair criticism. Saying he lacks the athleticism to play LT is ridiculous.

[RCAChainGang]

People are crazy. Darrisaw as RT only? Comical. That says to me that whoever is making those projections is not watching the tape. Saying Darrisaw doesn't finish blocks and plays like he should? That's a fair criticism. Saying he lacks the athleticism to play LT is ridiculous.

Yeah I thought that Darrisaw could hold down LT even if he was missing a bit of a mean streak.

[RCAChainGang]

I thought this was an interesting tweet (https://twitter.com/zkeefer/status/1391046368861503493) from Keefer.

Chatting with Colts' 1st-round pick Kwity Paye this morning, who's already signed his contract and met a few times with DL coach Brian Baker.

On the field, he's learning to stop the read-and-react approach he used at Mich and go get the QB. Will play strictly RDE in Indy.

Speaks to why Paye might not have the pass rush production at the collegiate level as well.

[Oldcolt]

I did not mean he couldn’t play LT. No one ever said that. What I have read is RT is best position. He was not a prototypical LT. Maybe that just isn’t good enough long term for Ballard. I’m extremely glad he is making the decisions for us

[Hoopsdoc]

For anyone interested, the one percent better podcast did an interview with Ballard. Very informative talk. He confirmed that there were tackles they were interested in in the 4th and 5th rounds and they even had discussions about trading up into the 3rd but none of it worked out.

They are VERY VERY high on Paye, Dayo, and Gransen. He singled Gransen out especially.

[Chromeburn]

According to Keefer, Reich is the one who pushed to sign Fisher.

[apballin]

Thought I’d read thru this old thread when I seen Teven Jenkins might miss the season with back surgery

[Racehorse]

Thought I’d read thru this old thread when I seen Teven Jenkins might miss the season with back surgery

Who was the damass complaining about not picking him?

[Luck4Reich]

Who was the damass complaining about not picking him?

You beat a lot of people to this.:D

[Racehorse]

You beat a lot of people to this.:D

apballin beat me to it.

[Luck4Reich]

apballin beat me to it.

That he did, that he did.

[apballin]

I can’t say shit I was saying draft Cosmi