I’m with you on drafting an OL at the top of our draft.
But regarding some other offensive players- I would definitely say goodbye to Connor Williams and his league leading holding skills. Cooper is already signed but IMO, he’s way too expensive for what this team gets in return. I would try to either restructure Coop’s deal or release him. I know he’s an excellent receiver, but he’s been here 3.5 years and we have one WC win to show for it. The last half of last season, he avg less than 45 yds per game. We can’t afford to keep Cooper and resign Gallup. It’s one or the other.
Regarding the running game, I would release Zeke. I know his contract would make for some cap weight but it’s time to cut our losses with him. Zeke is done. We could draft a decent RB in rounds 3-5 to pair with Pollard. I know Jerry will never allow this because he’s married to the idea that Zeke was a great investment with the 4th pick in the 2016 draft. Not true but when has JJ ever been able to admit that?
IMO- More than anything, this team needs major help in the trenches. Especially OL. If they release DLaw and or don’t resign Gregory, which is a possibility, drafting an edge rusher will be critical.
With 21 free agents coming up this off season, and the cap squeeze they are in, this team will look very different in 2022 than last year.
Oh, I agree completely, that there is a ton and a half that can be worried about...but when all is said and done, there is much that can be done realisticly as well as practical applications involving training for discipline on the team.
First, there has to be commitment on the staff and under Jerry as well, that their team will both remain focused as well as disciplined. Bad habits creep into play if a harsh level of accountability is not maintained and demanded from the start of the off season. There should be no doubt with the start of off season practice and team activity, this year all is on the line and that will include complete focus that leaves no room for lax or mental inconsistencies...at all.
Movie star status only is allowed into the room come the Super Bowl week!
A soldier was trained at all times, as if it were a real war environment and a professional sports team should be so held accountable as well. Bill Parcells started that style of play, when he was the Head Coach for the US Air Force Academy. It has it's place and is seen in teams such as Tampa Bay, Kansas City, San Francisco, the Rams, as well as New England.
This season is fully committed on Jerry, coaching staff, and roster...now they can just own up and go all in. Push the total envelope in renegotiated salaries, resigned players, and this draft.
A third round running back might be pretty attractive as well.