Quote:
Originally Posted by Skinny Tee
Ok...I'm completely fine with that premise. But we're in need of 3 to 4 quality offensive linemen and 2 to 3 serviceable backup linemen.
I don't care how talented Shanahan is at drafting or coaching, that need simply cannot be met in one year's time.
In addition to those needs he'll need to fill a roster with other offensive players who are going to fit the system he plans on using. Oh, and we're switching to a 3-4 defense from the 4-3. That alone will have it's own personnel need positions like MLB2 and DT (Haynesworth has stated he wants to rush the QB and not be a space eater)
Not being a downer, but all those holes will not be filled with 5 draft picks and a free agency with an abundance of restricted free agents due to the unsigned CBA agreement.
God bless Shanny, but the Phil Jackson comparisons will need to be put on hold until he finds his own Jordan and Pippen. Whatever we'll be with Shanahan won't show itself for a another 2+ years. Devin may not be around long enough to see it.
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Yes, O-line and a defensive transition will make certain that a SB is not forthcoming next year. However...
Part of the woes of the team last year was a "staying on a sinking ship" approach in playcalling style. Zorn and Blache both were rather fossilized in how the tried to attack the opponent and didn't adapt well at all. By the few accounts of Shanahan I've seen, he is much more thorough in gameplanning and makes adjustments after what the defenses do on the scripted plays. There were a few games last year that were winnable but we managed to choke them away with silly mistakes. Good coaching will help minimize these mistakes and the Skins may have an outside shot at being 10-6.
You also overstate the need for players in the O transition. OL is certainly a problem and QB is also something that needs to be addressed when the time is right, whether it's this year or next year, but the other skill positions are not a major priority. We have the TEs and WRs. Hell, Scheffler may even make the roster if McDaniels can't handle him. McCardell has firsthand experience in preparing as a WR. Campbell and the OL haven't given a really good environment for everyone to see what the WRs can do. I'd bet Shanahan would be drooling over having three good big receivers though who all have potential to be better than just good.
There are many options to handle RB. If drafting one is not feasible, then Shanahan may bring in some of his old guard (Hillis).