[skinsfan69]

Originally Posted by GTripp0012

I don't agree at all with your perception of Cooley the player, but given that perception, I think your analysis of the situation is top notch.

I mean, while attepting to approach the situation objectively (as a Skins fan), it's easy to overlook some of the really really special things he does. I've said it a million times, but the way he gets up the field after the catch on every single play is irreplaceable. He's better at it than any TE in the league, maybe ever, and I think hes the bestTE in the league, with regards to the passing game.

With that said, there are better blockers out there with more than respectable receiving skills. Crumpler, Gonzalez, and Heap come to mind. All are great TEs, and their complete game is comprable, possibly better than Cooley's.

Problem is, players like this come out of college once every...2 years I'd estimate. They tend not to be the highest rated player at their position coming out because for whatever reason, NFL scouts value athleticism in TEs more than they value TE-like skills.

I don't know exactly where I'd rate Cooley, but I'd throw him right up there in the upper echilon with Gonzo, and Heap, and Crumpler.

It's tough to say who is a really good blocking TE. I mean none of us fans have tape on these guys. But's hard not to think that Gates doesn't contribute at all in the blocking game. SD is one of the best rushing teams in the NFL and w/out good blocking, LT does not get all those TD's and yardage. So I would put Gates at the top of the list. Plus you can not ignore his production in the passing game. That speaks for itself.