| 01 December 2009
With all the uproar over the Ruskell-Holmgren rumors, I thought it would be a good time to look at what it takes to be a good General Manager.
In my mind, a good GM knows a good player from a bad player, can make tough calls, can work with coaches, recognizes value in a salary capped world, and has a vision for his team. And the more I thought about it, the more I realized that the best candidate I could think of was ME.
Of course, I do have a football background. Sure, I only played football in High School (7 man flag), but we won state two years in a row. I also met Jim Zorn in person at a basketball game once, and he's a current NFL coach (sort of), so I can say I have experience with that. And with over 50% of my net income currently going to child support payments, I really do have a deep understanding of financial efficiency.
Most importantly, I have bled blue and green for the last 30 years, and I don't have all sorts of nostalgic feelings about the Buccaneers or Packers to get in the way. I think it's time the NFL becomes a more interactive experience, and puts someone in charge who really does have the team's best interest in mind. Because really, doesn't the game really belong to THE FANS more than anything else?
And so I would like to submit my recommendations to whoever might listen. Here's what I would do as GM:
1. I would keep Jim Mora as the coach.
He's has kept his composure during a difficult season. I see a team playing hard, and that's his main job. I'll keep him.
2. I would trade Lofa.
Bottom line: I believe Lofa's best days are behind him, and Hawthorne's are ahead of him. No way are we switching to the 3-4. I would lose the big salary while I can get something in return. (Like a draft pick, offensive lineman or maybe an impartial officiating crew.)
3. I'd take another stab at that alternate jersey.
There's got to be another way to incorporate that secondary color. Isn't Seattle practically overrun with coffee-swilling graphic designers and artsy hippy-folk? I say we have a contest and I'm sure someone will come up with something better that what we wore this year.
4. I'd clean some house.
Patrick Kerney and Julius Jones are gone. Locklear, Lucas and Branch too. All that money, and not much to show for it.
5. I would tell Housh to shut up and play.
He's big and he catches the ball. Oh, and I dig his name. But this pouting and whining business just makes me want to punt his arrogant butt back to Cincinnati.
6. My first priority in the draft would be a defensive end.
We have the ammo to get a top-tier rookie, and I would target the best pass rusher in the bunch. You can find talent at other positions later in the draft, but a true man-beast gets taken at the top.
7. I'd get some fresh meat for the offensive line.
Obviously, a stud left tackle would be the most crucial. But I would also look for a guard or two and backup tackle. And I'd resign taped-up-groin guy. (aka: Brandon Frye. He can back-up Willis.) Starting line would be: Stud LT, Sims, Unger, Vet RG, Willis.
8. I'd resign Burleson.
Unless he wants Housh money.
9. Get a decent running back to pair with Forsett.
Free agency or the draft, doesn't matter. I just want a bruiser who runs hard.
10. I'd give the offensive coordinator a good talking to.
Yes, Knapp gets to stay. But I'd tell him that if he calls another one of those run-straight-into-the-pile plays on fourth-and-one (unless we are playing the Rams), then I will go straight to the bingo parlor and find someone else to call plays for him.
This is obviously just a start. Molding a championship team takes time, but I am fully willing to commit to the process. Thank you for your consideration, Mr. Allen. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Comments (39)
Sure, why not!
written by Farmer Paul, December 01, 2009
written by Farmer Paul, December 01, 2009
I agree with you on everything but #6 and #10. DE is not our 1st priority. LT and Guard are our 1st priority, end of story, don't want to debate about, period, this conversations over. Also, Knapp can stay only if Mora takes over the play calling, FULL TIME! If Knapp can't handle that then we go find someone who can get our offense together.
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Nope
written by IdahoSeahawksFan, December 01, 2009
written by IdahoSeahawksFan, December 01, 2009
Sorry kelphelper. I don't think so... #1 is right, #2 is a no way, #3 once a year is ok, #4 Locklear stays and Kerney is not doing so bad this year, #5 Housh has been quiet lately so that has already happened, #6 DE is a priority but OL is more, #7 will take years for some new meat to get on the same page. A good GM does not have years to do that, #8 and #9.. doesn't take a GM to know that, and #10 Knapp needs to do better but this is his first year with the team. I would give him one more year and then see where it goes.
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written by Hawkdude, December 01, 2009
written by Hawkdude, December 01, 2009
I agree with you in general. You've got my vote. I would keep Lock for depth since Willis is playing on questionable knees. Trading Tatupu is one of those tough decisions that a GM would have to make - I'm not applying for the job, so I can say keep him and get a first rounder for Branch/Kerney combo and a Starbuck's coffee gift card. 
.
Draft goals: Stud pass rusher, Stud LT, stud guard, stud RB.
Free Agency: Stud safety, stud corner, Derek Anderson (could be a cheaper longer term solution to when Hass is done)
Dumps: Kerney, Branch, Seneca, Julius Jones, Ruskell
. Draft goals: Stud pass rusher, Stud LT, stud guard, stud RB.
Free Agency: Stud safety, stud corner, Derek Anderson (could be a cheaper longer term solution to when Hass is done)
Dumps: Kerney, Branch, Seneca, Julius Jones, Ruskell
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written by realspd, December 01, 2009
written by realspd, December 01, 2009
I think either Knapp or Mora needs to go. You need a running game but you cant win just running the ball. Mora keeps saying we need to run the ball better but AZ couldnt run at all last year and made the SB. The colts usually cant run well and are always in contention. Go and get the best QB you can and build around them.
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written by Steve S., December 01, 2009
written by Steve S., December 01, 2009
"I would keep Jim Mora as the coach."
OK.
"I would trade Lofa."
You can't. If he's truly washed up as you say then nobody's going to trade for him and his big salary. Furthermore, though I haven't checked on his upcoming cap numbers, my guess is that you can't cut him for another couple of years without taking a big hit. You're likely stuck with him.
"I'd take another stab at that alternate jersey."
Amen.
"I'd clean some house.
Patrick Kerney and Julius Jones are gone. Locklear, Lucas and Branch too."
Not sure about Locklear or his contract, but the others are probably doable capwise.
"I would tell Housh to shut up and play."
Forget that, you can't tell a zebra to change its stripes. If you don't like him then cut him and take the cap hit, but the big mouth comes with the contract.
"My first priority in the draft would be a defensive end."
There are many needs and it's true that some of them are on the defensive front.
"I'd get some fresh meat for the offensive line."
This is your least controversial statement for sure.
"I'd resign Burleson."
He's worth third WR money but no more.
"Get a decent running back to pair with Forsett."
Yes.
"I'd give the offensive coordinator a good talking to."
His job is to call plays. If you don't like his play-calling then fire him. If you keep him then let him do his job without interference.
OK.
"I would trade Lofa."
You can't. If he's truly washed up as you say then nobody's going to trade for him and his big salary. Furthermore, though I haven't checked on his upcoming cap numbers, my guess is that you can't cut him for another couple of years without taking a big hit. You're likely stuck with him.
"I'd take another stab at that alternate jersey."
Amen.
"I'd clean some house.
Patrick Kerney and Julius Jones are gone. Locklear, Lucas and Branch too."
Not sure about Locklear or his contract, but the others are probably doable capwise.
"I would tell Housh to shut up and play."
Forget that, you can't tell a zebra to change its stripes. If you don't like him then cut him and take the cap hit, but the big mouth comes with the contract.
"My first priority in the draft would be a defensive end."
There are many needs and it's true that some of them are on the defensive front.
"I'd get some fresh meat for the offensive line."
This is your least controversial statement for sure.
"I'd resign Burleson."
He's worth third WR money but no more.
"Get a decent running back to pair with Forsett."
Yes.
"I'd give the offensive coordinator a good talking to."
His job is to call plays. If you don't like his play-calling then fire him. If you keep him then let him do his job without interference.
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My first priority in the draft would be a defensive end.
written by STUDLY STUDs, December 01, 2009
written by STUDLY STUDs, December 01, 2009
BINGO! And you win the all velour Holmgren on his Harley portrait.
GM'in is easy just draft studs.
GM'in is easy just draft studs.
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Wow
written by Texashawk, December 01, 2009
written by Texashawk, December 01, 2009
Really???
#1 Definatley keep Mora
#2 Trading Lofa is crazy the man knows whaere to go and what to do. He is a leader pure and simple. High school team and college team both were asked: who is the leader of your team..response: hands down Lofa Tatupu. Even injured he is a leader he is helping Hawthorne be great. He is in the film room early and late studing with Curry and The Heater. I think dumping him would be a mistake.
#3 loved the Alt jersey
#4 I could see these moves, I would try to restucture Locklear however first.
#5 Houshmandzadeh talks alot but does not seem like a cancer to me. I am fine with him.
#6 That is the problem that ruskell has made we need a new LT with our 1st pick and I would say a DT with our second. We need a beast in the center of our line to push the pocket. Jackson/Tapp would be sufficent for another year if we could prevent the QB from stepping up into the pocket. Cole needs to be in the rotation but not the starteer we need a Cortez like plug in the middle. OL is priority 1
#7 Handled in 1st round but would pick the best guard in the second
#8 This is a tough one I hate watching him ALMOST make big plays but his POTENTIAL is hard to ignore. Eventually though you have to give up on potential. His drops hurt us plain and simple. He would make a great slot receiver though but is paid too much.
#9 not a top priority but if one fell to us I would grab him in later rounds. Doubtful.
# 10 FIRED, FIRED, FIRED
#1 Definatley keep Mora
#2 Trading Lofa is crazy the man knows whaere to go and what to do. He is a leader pure and simple. High school team and college team both were asked: who is the leader of your team..response: hands down Lofa Tatupu. Even injured he is a leader he is helping Hawthorne be great. He is in the film room early and late studing with Curry and The Heater. I think dumping him would be a mistake.
#3 loved the Alt jersey
#4 I could see these moves, I would try to restucture Locklear however first.
#5 Houshmandzadeh talks alot but does not seem like a cancer to me. I am fine with him.
#6 That is the problem that ruskell has made we need a new LT with our 1st pick and I would say a DT with our second. We need a beast in the center of our line to push the pocket. Jackson/Tapp would be sufficent for another year if we could prevent the QB from stepping up into the pocket. Cole needs to be in the rotation but not the starteer we need a Cortez like plug in the middle. OL is priority 1
#7 Handled in 1st round but would pick the best guard in the second
#8 This is a tough one I hate watching him ALMOST make big plays but his POTENTIAL is hard to ignore. Eventually though you have to give up on potential. His drops hurt us plain and simple. He would make a great slot receiver though but is paid too much.
#9 not a top priority but if one fell to us I would grab him in later rounds. Doubtful.
# 10 FIRED, FIRED, FIRED
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this is crap.
written by hawkfanmsvl, December 01, 2009
written by hawkfanmsvl, December 01, 2009
Trade Tatupu? That's right about when i thank my lucky stars you're not the GM. Make the defensive line your first priority??! How many left tackles have we had this year?! That's priority number 1. Thank god you're not making the big decisions. Our team would be F***ED!! This post was absolute garbage.
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Love it
written by GnarlyHawk, December 01, 2009
written by GnarlyHawk, December 01, 2009
Don't fret the nay sayers, it's your view 
Last year I was all about trading Matt and Walt away for picks before their value was completely shot and beginning a rebuild. Got lots of grief. You just never know how things are going to turn out. I feel the same about Lofa. He's not impressed me in over 2 years and could be part of a nice draft day package for a move on some major o-line player you want. While still keeping you #1 for the DE of the decade.
Good luck !
Last year I was all about trading Matt and Walt away for picks before their value was completely shot and beginning a rebuild. Got lots of grief. You just never know how things are going to turn out. I feel the same about Lofa. He's not impressed me in over 2 years and could be part of a nice draft day package for a move on some major o-line player you want. While still keeping you #1 for the DE of the decade.
Good luck !
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Perfect Fix
written by rynizzle206, December 01, 2009
written by rynizzle206, December 01, 2009
I agree with the players you listed to cut minus Locklear at least first try a restructure of his contract.I think most Hawks fans dream would be fire Ruskell and Knapp then hire Holmgren and Zorn.Last time Holmgren had two first round picks they translated into two possible hall of famers one for sure in hutchinson and possibly another in Alexander.Most of us would love to see Zorns offense ran with this group wich is realistically is Holmgrens offense which he taught to Zorn i have no problem with Mora staying aboard especially if meant he could focus more on our defense.
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written by Seahawkzz, December 01, 2009
written by Seahawkzz, December 01, 2009
DE our first priority????? How can you think that putting pressure on an opposing QB is more important than protecting ours???
With a better O line we can run the ball more and control the clock keeping our defense fresh, picking a DE first would be the kind of move I would expect Ruskell to do.
We have seen what happens when Matt goes down it is not pretty at all we need to protect him period.
With a better O line we can run the ball more and control the clock keeping our defense fresh, picking a DE first would be the kind of move I would expect Ruskell to do.
We have seen what happens when Matt goes down it is not pretty at all we need to protect him period.
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First smart post on this website in a long time!
written by holidayhawk, December 01, 2009
written by holidayhawk, December 01, 2009
Thank you for finally posting something worth reading on here! I agree with the majority (not all) of everything you said. I particulary agree with trading the invisible Lofa Tatupu. I'm sure there is another McDonald's in the nation he would love to travel to. Disagree with using our first pick, which will likely be a top 7 pick, on a DE. I think you go O-Line, hands down, despite the fact it isn't a great draft for that spot, you take the best thats available. Again, good post!!!
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written by MontanaMike, December 01, 2009
written by MontanaMike, December 01, 2009
Gnarlyhawk you make a good point about Lofa, is he on the decline? Is big walt done?
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written by jackrabbit, December 01, 2009
written by jackrabbit, December 01, 2009
You can tell which people are offense-minded and which people are defense-minded. The guys who are offense-minded are calling you a lunatic while the guys who are defense-minded are calling you a visionary. I'm gonna side with you though. Good post.
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written by Louis Phan, December 01, 2009
written by Louis Phan, December 01, 2009
Im basically in agreement with all the others...
I agree with basically all of what you said except I think that Locklear should be kept. He was pretty good in 2005 as our RT so i think he should be able to do the same thing at RT if he is healthy.
I think we have to focus on LT with our 1st spot. DE would be good with our 2nd pick or our 2nd round pick
I agree with basically all of what you said except I think that Locklear should be kept. He was pretty good in 2005 as our RT so i think he should be able to do the same thing at RT if he is healthy.
I think we have to focus on LT with our 1st spot. DE would be good with our 2nd pick or our 2nd round pick
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You're all living in the past.
written by HawkFanMsvl, December 01, 2009
written by HawkFanMsvl, December 01, 2009
We need a potent offense. Because of recent rule changes (brady rule, cowboy collar, 5 yd "bump rule", etc.. The offense has a definite advantage in today's NFL. Look at the more dominant teams in the NFC in the past 2 years when most of these rules came into play. You'll see extremely potent offenses winning, and the teams known to have dominant defensive teams have faltered. LoJack is improving a TON. Tapp is in a contract year, and we can afford him. We also have up and comer Nick Reed, and we can also find DEs in Free Agency and later on in the draft, as this years class runs deep.
We need to build our offensive line to protect our current, and future quarterback. That offensive line will also open holes for guys like Forsett and (hopefully) Best. Remember our offensive line when we had an "MVP" running back? Okay, now do you remember what happened when we lost a key part of that offensive line? To think that's just a coincidence is just plain ignorant.
Draft offensive anchors early, draft defensive guys later in the draft. It'll pay dividends with the way the NFL is playing as of late.
We need to build our offensive line to protect our current, and future quarterback. That offensive line will also open holes for guys like Forsett and (hopefully) Best. Remember our offensive line when we had an "MVP" running back? Okay, now do you remember what happened when we lost a key part of that offensive line? To think that's just a coincidence is just plain ignorant.
Draft offensive anchors early, draft defensive guys later in the draft. It'll pay dividends with the way the NFL is playing as of late.
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written by omar little, December 01, 2009
written by omar little, December 01, 2009
I wouldn't draft a DE in the top 10. Something happens to those guys when they get top 10 money, they get lazy in a posistion that requires the most physical effort. They lose that motor that teams need. Look at all the top DE's in the league, with the exception of Mario Williams and Julius Peppers they are not hight draft picks, most are not even first round picks.
Look at recent top 10 DE busts Courtney Brown, Gaines Adams, Jaamal Anderson and guys like Derrick Harvey and Chris Long are looking like busts, these are misses that can ruin your defense for years. There are guys in later rounds that can be great players, thats where we need to find DE talent.
Look at recent top 10 DE busts Courtney Brown, Gaines Adams, Jaamal Anderson and guys like Derrick Harvey and Chris Long are looking like busts, these are misses that can ruin your defense for years. There are guys in later rounds that can be great players, thats where we need to find DE talent.
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written by JohnnyB, December 01, 2009
written by JohnnyB, December 01, 2009
Before 1) you should have: "I would carefully take a few months to study all the game film of every game from the last four or five seasons and learn all the calls and schemes because I know enough about football to know that watching on TV or in the stands leave me with only a small percentage of the information I need to make the following decisions."
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written by kelphelper, December 01, 2009
written by kelphelper, December 01, 2009
it's fun to read all the comments. thanks for the feedback!
of course, it's just an opinion, and probably nobody is going to agree 100% with everything. starting a discussion is part of the purpose for saying it in the first place. but i feel like i should elaborate on two points. i could have included more supporting material, but i wanted to keep the article from getting too long.
1. my argument for trading lofa goes something like this: lofa is not washed-up. he has value. he is a smart linebacker who still has many years left. the thing is, i don't think he will get any BETTER. the first three year, he played beyond his physical limitations because of his brains and instincts. i don't think he can improve on this part of it. he can't study more film than he already does, or become MORE instinctive. and the physical skills will begin to deteriorate too. his ability to stay healthy will also become more of a factor.
so why not stick with hawthorne? he has outplayed lofa this season, and could conceivably improve with more experience in the defense. he's definitely cheaper. trading lofa would allow us to have more draft ammo.
2. which brings us to the draft strategy. if we have three picks in the first two rounds, (maybe even four, if we traded lofa), then we have the means to move around and grab the players we want.
BOTH lines need desperate help. i am not a big draftnik, and don't know much about who is coming out next year. but the truth remains that it's a lot harder to find a game-changing pass-rusher than a solid left tackle.
i really don't think the elite left tackle comes along very often. there is no replacing big walt. we need a whole solid line, not just one elite player. i'd rather get a pass-rushing terror and a solid tackle, than swing for the fences taking the most walter-ish tackle first thing and settling for another lawrence jackson on the defensive side.
let me put it another way: if we just had an average line, this offense could be good enough to get far into the playoffs. without a serious upgrade at defensive end, then the defense will look pretty much just like it does right now.
of course, it's just an opinion, and probably nobody is going to agree 100% with everything. starting a discussion is part of the purpose for saying it in the first place. but i feel like i should elaborate on two points. i could have included more supporting material, but i wanted to keep the article from getting too long.
1. my argument for trading lofa goes something like this: lofa is not washed-up. he has value. he is a smart linebacker who still has many years left. the thing is, i don't think he will get any BETTER. the first three year, he played beyond his physical limitations because of his brains and instincts. i don't think he can improve on this part of it. he can't study more film than he already does, or become MORE instinctive. and the physical skills will begin to deteriorate too. his ability to stay healthy will also become more of a factor.
so why not stick with hawthorne? he has outplayed lofa this season, and could conceivably improve with more experience in the defense. he's definitely cheaper. trading lofa would allow us to have more draft ammo.
2. which brings us to the draft strategy. if we have three picks in the first two rounds, (maybe even four, if we traded lofa), then we have the means to move around and grab the players we want.
BOTH lines need desperate help. i am not a big draftnik, and don't know much about who is coming out next year. but the truth remains that it's a lot harder to find a game-changing pass-rusher than a solid left tackle.
i really don't think the elite left tackle comes along very often. there is no replacing big walt. we need a whole solid line, not just one elite player. i'd rather get a pass-rushing terror and a solid tackle, than swing for the fences taking the most walter-ish tackle first thing and settling for another lawrence jackson on the defensive side.
let me put it another way: if we just had an average line, this offense could be good enough to get far into the playoffs. without a serious upgrade at defensive end, then the defense will look pretty much just like it does right now.
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flawed.
written by HawkFanMsvl, December 02, 2009
written by HawkFanMsvl, December 02, 2009
Lawrence Jackson was supposed to be that "rushing terror" and thus far hasn't lived up to his pick. Same with Marcus Tubbs= he was supposed to be our run stopper. and we all know how that panned out. Offensive linemen are the safest picks in the draft. It'd be foolish to fire ruskell and draft the same way that he drafts.
If Okung or Williams is in a Seahawks jersey next year i can all but guarantee our run and pass will improve. We also need to draft a left guard and we should be good. Picture our line in this order from left to right: Okung or Williams, Lupadi (please please please), Spencer, Unger, Locklear, Carlson
Put the 1st two on offensive lineman. Odds are we can get Williams AND Lupadi. Hell, behind that line Louis Rankin can be a 1000 yard rusher.
Furthermore, why would you say you'd draft a stud defensive lineman if you don't even know who's coming out this year? Is this the type of insight i can come to expect when Sully isn't posting anything?
If Okung or Williams is in a Seahawks jersey next year i can all but guarantee our run and pass will improve. We also need to draft a left guard and we should be good. Picture our line in this order from left to right: Okung or Williams, Lupadi (please please please), Spencer, Unger, Locklear, Carlson
Put the 1st two on offensive lineman. Odds are we can get Williams AND Lupadi. Hell, behind that line Louis Rankin can be a 1000 yard rusher.
Furthermore, why would you say you'd draft a stud defensive lineman if you don't even know who's coming out this year? Is this the type of insight i can come to expect when Sully isn't posting anything?
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one more thing:
written by HawkFanMsvl, December 02, 2009
written by HawkFanMsvl, December 02, 2009
"let me put it another way: if we just had an average line, this offense could be good enough to get far into the playoffs. without a serious upgrade at defensive end, then the defense will look pretty much just like it does right now."
This is seriously flawed. We have an average offensive line now. We're noway NEAR playoffs. An average offensive line pinned up against an above average pass rush is always going to lose. I don't feel like losing to the Cardinals twice a year EVER AGAIN. Without a serious upgrade to our OL we can expect more of the same, week in- week out.
Our defense needs work- no doubt about it. But if our offense isn't putting points on the board whats the use of trying to draft high risk high reward players such as defensive ends? That's just flat out reckless.
This is seriously flawed. We have an average offensive line now. We're noway NEAR playoffs. An average offensive line pinned up against an above average pass rush is always going to lose. I don't feel like losing to the Cardinals twice a year EVER AGAIN. Without a serious upgrade to our OL we can expect more of the same, week in- week out.
Our defense needs work- no doubt about it. But if our offense isn't putting points on the board whats the use of trying to draft high risk high reward players such as defensive ends? That's just flat out reckless.
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DE and Lofa Trade?
written by AK Seahawk , December 02, 2009
written by AK Seahawk , December 02, 2009
Okay, wait a minute.... Draft a DE in the first round AND trade Lofa.... THEN WHAT? Draft another LB in the 2nd round? No OL again?........Ruskell is that you? Be honest!
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written by 12, December 02, 2009
written by 12, December 02, 2009
I just can't see making the defense the top priority when we have such a poor offense in so many positions. I think Ruskell may have been shown the door just for wasting the #1 pick on an overvalued Curry last draft...lol. Why not draft the best offensive talent available and gamble in the later rounds for defense, we could get lucky with a diamond in the rough there too. We have just enough scoring power to beat the worst teams in the league, but the Hawks are still only the best of the worst. The Hawks need a quarterback yesterday, Matt won't even have enough left in the tank to train the new QB1 if they wait any longer. No disrespect but I don't want another Hasselbeck, we can do better. Hass was so lucky to play in a weak NFC in one of the worst divisions of all time with the best home field advantage in the NFL but we really could have been better and for longer. Shaun made the difference in 05. Let's finally get an elite quarterback in Seattle! The left tackle will compliment the QB in the first round. A running back should be on the short list because Forsett may not be the answer against quality teams. A defense will not win games for the Hawks if they are on the field the whole game, lets score some points!
The receivers are the only part of the offense that seem strong right now, I'm not sold on this running game. Burleson deserves more respect, TJ is just an overpaid #2.
I don't believe the players respect Mora, the Hawks need a real leader as HC. Ruskell simply let this team fall apart, we look better than we really are because of a continued weak schedule.
The receivers are the only part of the offense that seem strong right now, I'm not sold on this running game. Burleson deserves more respect, TJ is just an overpaid #2.
I don't believe the players respect Mora, the Hawks need a real leader as HC. Ruskell simply let this team fall apart, we look better than we really are because of a continued weak schedule.
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Lofa
written by Scotts, December 02, 2009
written by Scotts, December 02, 2009
Still trying to figure out why so many Hawk fans love Lofa so much. He had 1 great year, and has been mediocre ever since. People keep talking about how great of a leader he is and how smart he is and forget that he is almost NEVER a game changer. I understand that he is believed to be a stand up guy and is a sentimental favorite, but sentiment doesn't win games, GAME CHANGERS DO!
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no way
written by tbenson, December 02, 2009
written by tbenson, December 02, 2009
Here's where this guy loses all credibility:
Trade Lofa?
NFL trades never get you squat. Lucky to get a 4th round pick.
Bring back the nuke-puke jersey's?
Worst uniforms in all of sports history.
GM Kelphelper - you're fired.
see-ya
Trade Lofa?
NFL trades never get you squat. Lucky to get a 4th round pick.
Bring back the nuke-puke jersey's?
Worst uniforms in all of sports history.
GM Kelphelper - you're fired.
see-ya
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Curry
written by HawksFanMSVL, December 02, 2009
written by HawksFanMSVL, December 02, 2009
12, how can you say Curry is overvalued when he's not even done with his rookie year? That's a bit unfair. In 4 years you're going to be thanking your lucky stars we have a guy with Curry's motor on defense.
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written by S.TTBM, December 02, 2009
written by S.TTBM, December 02, 2009
Pretty good list, Kelphelper.
As for me, mine goes like this:
1) Dump Knapp. The man is a fool. Charlie Weiss, Gill Haskell, ANYONE for that matter who can run a rhythm-based, WCO-esque, COMPETENT NFL offense.
2) Mora: Maybe. I disagree that he has kept his composure. He looks sick to his stomach in the first quarter, he looks confused, and he constantly says the word "accountability", yet never has put any blame on himself or the other coaches. NOT the behavior of a leader. Still, if he fires Knapp, I would allow another season before kicking his ass and career back to the college ranks where I fear he belongs.
3) 1-2 Free agent G's or a C, draft a LT.
4) Trash the ZBS. If a guy cant block a man all by himself, what the hell good is he?! I want a line that can get 4th and 2 even if the play falls apart--by sheer willpower and determination--not some cockamamie scheme that disintegrates a play if one lineman stumbles on his way to a chip block.
5) Dump Burelson, find a replacement via FA or draft--unless he takes a pay cut. I mentioned in the offseason we should go after Devery Henderson of the Rams, but OH NO, Ruskell in his infinite wisdom stood pat and he's doing pretty well for NO even though they are loaded at WR. I have had enough of trying to make a silk purse out of a sow's ear: Nate cannot be depended on to a) Get open b) catch a ball in traffic on third down. He is only a good third WR, no more no less.
6) Clean house, amen. Gone are Kerney (barring a huge pay-cut), Branch, Jones, and Kelly Jennings. Resign Lucas (he is, and will remain, a cheap veteran backup). Sign a FA DE who can actually scare opposing qb's. Sign a FA corner with size AND speed. Check out safeties--mostly FS, as Babz is up and down. And yes, get a running back with some size in here. Rankin may turn out well, and he may not. Get a DT with size who isnt a washout like Cole.
7) New D-line coach and perhaps LB and secondary coaches as well. Im not liking what I see.
Seriously, all I want for Christmas is Knapp gone gone gone. A new WR who can do it all halfway decent, and a couple starting caliber O-lineman, and one DE with talent. Is that too much to ask for?
As for me, mine goes like this:
1) Dump Knapp. The man is a fool. Charlie Weiss, Gill Haskell, ANYONE for that matter who can run a rhythm-based, WCO-esque, COMPETENT NFL offense.
2) Mora: Maybe. I disagree that he has kept his composure. He looks sick to his stomach in the first quarter, he looks confused, and he constantly says the word "accountability", yet never has put any blame on himself or the other coaches. NOT the behavior of a leader. Still, if he fires Knapp, I would allow another season before kicking his ass and career back to the college ranks where I fear he belongs.
3) 1-2 Free agent G's or a C, draft a LT.
4) Trash the ZBS. If a guy cant block a man all by himself, what the hell good is he?! I want a line that can get 4th and 2 even if the play falls apart--by sheer willpower and determination--not some cockamamie scheme that disintegrates a play if one lineman stumbles on his way to a chip block.
5) Dump Burelson, find a replacement via FA or draft--unless he takes a pay cut. I mentioned in the offseason we should go after Devery Henderson of the Rams, but OH NO, Ruskell in his infinite wisdom stood pat and he's doing pretty well for NO even though they are loaded at WR. I have had enough of trying to make a silk purse out of a sow's ear: Nate cannot be depended on to a) Get open b) catch a ball in traffic on third down. He is only a good third WR, no more no less.
6) Clean house, amen. Gone are Kerney (barring a huge pay-cut), Branch, Jones, and Kelly Jennings. Resign Lucas (he is, and will remain, a cheap veteran backup). Sign a FA DE who can actually scare opposing qb's. Sign a FA corner with size AND speed. Check out safeties--mostly FS, as Babz is up and down. And yes, get a running back with some size in here. Rankin may turn out well, and he may not. Get a DT with size who isnt a washout like Cole.
7) New D-line coach and perhaps LB and secondary coaches as well. Im not liking what I see.
Seriously, all I want for Christmas is Knapp gone gone gone. A new WR who can do it all halfway decent, and a couple starting caliber O-lineman, and one DE with talent. Is that too much to ask for?
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written by S.TTBM, December 02, 2009
written by S.TTBM, December 02, 2009
Lofa will be here at least a couple more years, due to his contract. I also fear his best days are behind him. I think opposing teams have figured out exactly how to account for him--block him.
Hawthorne isnt as instinctive nor as knowledgeable, but he is by far the better athlete. Lofa is small and slow, and now those flaws are showing up in his game. Once Hawthorne "gets" the game a little better, I expect his natural athletic gifts to trump Lofa's instincts.
What I really want is Bradley to stop wasting Curry, and let the man play basic OLB. Let him make plays with his athelticism, isntead of spinning his head around with crackpot complicated schemes that dont work anyway.
Hawthorne isnt as instinctive nor as knowledgeable, but he is by far the better athlete. Lofa is small and slow, and now those flaws are showing up in his game. Once Hawthorne "gets" the game a little better, I expect his natural athletic gifts to trump Lofa's instincts.
What I really want is Bradley to stop wasting Curry, and let the man play basic OLB. Let him make plays with his athelticism, isntead of spinning his head around with crackpot complicated schemes that dont work anyway.
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written by kelphelper, December 02, 2009
written by kelphelper, December 02, 2009
everyone is entitled to their opinion. but to say we have an average offensive line NOW? can't let that one go.
our line is AWFUL. i'm amazed that hasselbeck is still playing at all. we need serious retooling on that line just to get back up to average.
and i'm sorry you guys are bent out of shape about lofa, but i bet you could get a second rounder for him. without the elite pass-rusher, our defense is quite ordinary (with or without lofa).
i am actually still on the fence about knapp. like i pointed out in my coaching article, there's good and bad with this guy. it's hard to tell where it would go given a better offensive line. if i'm keeping mora, then i figured it would make sense to give knapp some more time to prove his worth.
our line is AWFUL. i'm amazed that hasselbeck is still playing at all. we need serious retooling on that line just to get back up to average.
and i'm sorry you guys are bent out of shape about lofa, but i bet you could get a second rounder for him. without the elite pass-rusher, our defense is quite ordinary (with or without lofa).
i am actually still on the fence about knapp. like i pointed out in my coaching article, there's good and bad with this guy. it's hard to tell where it would go given a better offensive line. if i'm keeping mora, then i figured it would make sense to give knapp some more time to prove his worth.
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written by Seahawkzz, December 02, 2009
written by Seahawkzz, December 02, 2009
I will never understand why people have such distaste for Burleson; He is our leading WR if he is a number 3 at best what does that say for the rest of our WRs? He averages nearly 13 yards a reception; I know he has some drops but who doesn’t? He is also the best open field runner that this team has; IMO Nate is a solid number 2.
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written by S.TTBM, December 02, 2009
written by S.TTBM, December 02, 2009
Anyone who takes 3 WR's earning 16.5 million a year, and a Pro Bowl qb, and drops that qb's completion perecentage to 55% from over 60% career average, in one year, deserves to be fired. Knapp's offense couldnt get the ball to the WR's downfield against the RAMS!!
That is not a comeptent NFL passing offense. That is Greg Knapp, failure.
That is not a comeptent NFL passing offense. That is Greg Knapp, failure.
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written by elgranderojo, December 02, 2009
written by elgranderojo, December 02, 2009
I used to agree about the whole we should never switch to the 3-4 because we don't have the personal thing... but I think I'm changing my mind on that. Curry, Hill and Tapp could be great edge rush OLBs(and similar in size to James Harrison). Hawthrone could be a force in the middle, especially if you make him a bit more reactionary and let Lofa run the defense from the other MLB spot. We don't need Kerney in a 3-4, nor any DE that can rush the pass. Try out Redding, Jackson and Mebane (particularly on run downs) as the DE's. Then have Cole as the Nose on run downs and Mebane as the nose on pass downs. I'm not aware of the scheme differences for the secondary in a 3-4... I'm pretty sure it is somewhat independent of the front 7, although most teams in the 3-4 play aggressive across the board and so they usually play man-man. For the 3-4 to work we'd have to can Bradley though and hire someone who really knows the 3-4 since most of our defenders have probably never played it. I think in some regards it is simpler for the defense to learn though.
This way we could focus our draft on a OT and/or QB and then a complimentary back to J-Force.
This way we could focus our draft on a OT and/or QB and then a complimentary back to J-Force.
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RE: Lofa
written by TacomaHawk, December 02, 2009
written by TacomaHawk, December 02, 2009
This is gonna sound really harsh, but.... Why do people assume another NFL team will give the Hawks a 2nd round draft pick for a guy who:
1. hasn't played as well the last couple seasons
2. is considered a tad slow and undersized for his position
3. is currently on Injured friggin Reserve
4. and oh, by the way, JUST signed a 6-year 42 million contract
I mean, come on, if Lofa was, say, a Bengal, and Ruskell traded a 2nd rounder for him, even his biggest supporters would be calling for his head on a platter.
Kelphelper, I agree with some of your ideas, disagree with a couple others, and admire the huevos it takes to put 'em all out there and take the inevitable abuse
The question everybody should ask before mentioning any trades is "Would I do this for the Hawks if it was the other way around?"
As far as Lofa/Hawthorne goes, I think the Hawks have a few realistic options:
1. do nothing, let them compete for the spot next season, loser is a backup.
2. trade Hawthorne, he's younger, cheaper, and more likely to bring a decent return.
3. switch to a 3-4
4. trade Lofa, bite the bullet and take the late 2nd day draft pick you'd be lucky to get in return
1. hasn't played as well the last couple seasons
2. is considered a tad slow and undersized for his position
3. is currently on Injured friggin Reserve
4. and oh, by the way, JUST signed a 6-year 42 million contract
I mean, come on, if Lofa was, say, a Bengal, and Ruskell traded a 2nd rounder for him, even his biggest supporters would be calling for his head on a platter.
Kelphelper, I agree with some of your ideas, disagree with a couple others, and admire the huevos it takes to put 'em all out there and take the inevitable abuse
The question everybody should ask before mentioning any trades is "Would I do this for the Hawks if it was the other way around?" As far as Lofa/Hawthorne goes, I think the Hawks have a few realistic options:
1. do nothing, let them compete for the spot next season, loser is a backup.
2. trade Hawthorne, he's younger, cheaper, and more likely to bring a decent return.
3. switch to a 3-4
4. trade Lofa, bite the bullet and take the late 2nd day draft pick you'd be lucky to get in return
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4. trade Lofa, bite the bullet and take the late 2nd day draft pick you'd be lucky to get in return
written by GnarlyHawk, December 02, 2009
written by GnarlyHawk, December 02, 2009
I'd go with this, except I'd work at a second or first rounder for him, and incent w/ a future 3rd or future 4th & 5th; knowing I'll earn a compensatory pick form the move. Either way, he's not on my roster year, and I go with the younger guys who have not been on my injury list 2 years running.
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My attempt.
written by jverhei, December 02, 2009
written by jverhei, December 02, 2009
1. 1 more year for Mora to show he has what it takes to compete as a coach
2. Draft BEST PLAYER AVAILABLE. Find a player who changes games at any position in round 1.
3. Stop signing retreads to 4+ yr deals. Build through the draft.
4. Implement a hybrid defense that can go 4-3 or 3-4. We've already seen them do this this season. This would allow us to adapt to and/or control what other teams do. (Not an easy task.)
5. Change the alternate jerseys From Lime Green to a Dark Smoke Gray.
6. Build the team with Emphasis towards O-Line and D-Line, with the exception of QB.
(QB,LT,DE,RT,DT,MLB,C,RB,RG/LG,OLB,CB,S)
7.Cut(Attempt to trade) Kerney, Branch
8. Tell Walter Jones to retire or take a pay cut with incentives. No more dragging down the team waiting for you to get healthy.
9. Sign Burleson to #2.5 receiver money. Not quite a #2 but not a #3
10. Find a real #2 quarterback so that Seneca can finish out his contract being able to get more time on the field. (Ex: an antwane randle El role)
2. Draft BEST PLAYER AVAILABLE. Find a player who changes games at any position in round 1.
3. Stop signing retreads to 4+ yr deals. Build through the draft.
4. Implement a hybrid defense that can go 4-3 or 3-4. We've already seen them do this this season. This would allow us to adapt to and/or control what other teams do. (Not an easy task.)
5. Change the alternate jerseys From Lime Green to a Dark Smoke Gray.
6. Build the team with Emphasis towards O-Line and D-Line, with the exception of QB.
(QB,LT,DE,RT,DT,MLB,C,RB,RG/LG,OLB,CB,S)
7.Cut(Attempt to trade) Kerney, Branch
8. Tell Walter Jones to retire or take a pay cut with incentives. No more dragging down the team waiting for you to get healthy.
9. Sign Burleson to #2.5 receiver money. Not quite a #2 but not a #3
10. Find a real #2 quarterback so that Seneca can finish out his contract being able to get more time on the field. (Ex: an antwane randle El role)
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Honestly
written by Texashawk, December 03, 2009
written by Texashawk, December 03, 2009
Please dont take offense but I am really glad that most of you are not the GM!!
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It's the interior line - not the tackles
written by Snake, December 03, 2009
written by Snake, December 03, 2009
Does anyone know how many sacks Willis and Locklear have allowed this year? Based on my observations, the bulk of the problem with the OL is the LG/C/RG positions, NOT the tackles. Way too much penetration from the DT positions. I think they should to try Unger at C, platoon Spencer/Sims at RG (cut one) and draft a nasty LG and T in rounds 2-3.
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Cool post
written by Replica Handbags Wholesale, December 01, 2010
written by Replica Handbags Wholesale, December 01, 2010
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Thanks for taking the time to talk about this, I feel fervently about this and I take pleasure in learning about this topic. Please, as you gain information, please update this blog with more information. I have found it very useful.Replica Handbags Wholesale
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