Fix the Line Thread

[Ohioskins]

I agree that 3 of the 5 need to be replaced. But while it is cozy to hope that guys like Compton or Long actually develop into real NFL linemen, the safer approach is to go after real high end talent. Our first pick this year should address one of the guard positions or right tackle. Then maybe sign a UFA. Chester absolutely must go !!!

As for defense, first get rid of Hazlett. Then let the new Defensive Coordinator set up a plan for how he wants to proceed.

[KI Skins Fan]

Originally Posted by Ohioskins

I agree that 3 of the 5 need to be replaced. But while it is cozy to hope that guys like Compton or Long actually develop into real NFL linemen, the safer approach is to go after real high end talent. Our first pick this year should address one of the guard positions or right tackle. Then maybe sign a UFA. Chester absolutely must go !!!

As for defense, first get rid of Hazlett. Then let the new Defensive Coordinator set up a plan for how he wants to proceed.

I agree with your proposed approach. Just to quibble a bit, I think that Compton and Long may be keepers.

I like that Compton can play both OT positions and I think he's fine as a swing tackle. As for Long, it takes more than a year to come back all the way from a serious knee injury. I don't think we know what we have in him yet. But he's big, tough, and aggressive. In preseason he was able able to get to the second level and do some damage. I think he'll be better next season. He should at least be a solid reserve IMO. Moses could come on, too. We'll see. I'm not saying they'll ever be starters but they could provide solid depth.

I agree completely with you that we should prioritize OL in FA and the draft. Just look what drafting three 1st Round OL has done for Tony Romo and the Dallas running game.

[Bangee7]

Originally Posted by KI Skins Fan

I agree with your proposed approach. Just to quibble a bit, I think that Compton and Long may be keepers.

I like that Compton can play both OT positions and I think he's fine as a swing tackle. As for Long, it takes more than a year to come back all the way from a serious knee injury. I don't think we know what we have in him yet. But he's big, tough, and aggressive. In preseason he was able able to get to the second level and do some damage. I think he'll be better next season. He should at least be a solid reserve IMO. Moses could come on, too. We'll see. I'm not saying they'll ever be starters but they could provide solid depth.

I agree completely with you that we should prioritize OL in FA and the draft. Just look what drafting three 1st Round OL has done for Tony Romo and the Dallas running game.

Agree 100% with this post. Compton has shown big improvement this year.
If he gets beat out, he'll be a capable backup to both OT spots.

And with Long...when I read about his injury, I was surprised that he was ready for Training Camp. He'll be even stronger next year, with better balance.

I'm in the camp that we should target o-line first, but if we're drafting inside the top 8, I can't see us taking a Guard. My bet is that we take OT, S or D-line or trade back in the first and then take Guard.

The Dallas reference gives me hope that we can turn this around pretty quickly.