Buzzmaster: We're getting Kidder right now!
Keith Kidd: Glad to be here. It's great to talk with SportsNation. There are OTAs that will really start cranking up in the next few weeks as teams start implementing and tweaking their systems as they gear up for training camp. Let's get rolling with your questions.
Luis (SB, CA): TGIFKK, is there any movement on the Sean Alexander front? It's amazing to me that someone hasn't pulled the trigger on this guy. People forget he was MVP and broke the TD record in 2005.
Keith Kidd: There is some movement as far as teams having an interest. However teams are still in the process of studying younger players in the upcoming OTAs and mini camp. We all know what kind of player Alexander is. It could be a money thing. But we all expect him to be on some team by the start of training camp.
Dale (Louisville): What were the Bears thinking not drafting a QB?
Keith Kidd: Good point. It beats me. But they're obviously convinced that Grossman or Orton can be that guy this season. With what they've done this offseason. I think they're in rebuilding mode. They still have the same concerns - OL, RB, WR. This team will have to rely on the defense and special teams. Right now, they're the third best team in the NFC North.
Ryan (Madison, WI): Any word from the Dolphins on the QB situation there?
Keith Kidd: To me, if the season started today, Josh McCown is the starter. I think they want to get into camp and see what they have in John Beck. If he's not the answer and this team struggles...Chad Henne is the future of this team.
Kev (NYC): Where will Shockey play in 08 and what kind of stats do you expect coming off the leg injury?
Keith Kidd: He'll be a Giant in '08. Based on the injuries he's had over the last few years, I think it will take away from his big time explosive plays down field. But I still seeing him as a big threat in the Red Zone, along with the short and intermediate passing game. He is still a great talent, but unfortunately injuries have hindered him the last few years.
Eric (Jacksonville FL): Keith, with Groves and Harvey on the De's, and an upgrade on the offensive and defensive side of the ball. Do you see the Jags making some noise in the playoffs?
Keith Kidd: I do. Based on the success they had a year ago. I think they'll not only make some noise in the playoffs, but some noise in their division. This is an extremely talented team and I'm anxious to see if Garrard can put together back to back good seasons. But they still need some playmakers to step up at WR.
Gary (Alabama): Does Brodie Croyle have any chance to start for the Chiefs this year?
Keith Kidd: I think he will be the starter when the season opens. There's no doubt the Chiefs want him to be that guy. However, I don't see the Chiefs contending in the AFC West for a few more years. The biggest concern that you have with Croyle and Huard are durability issues. LJ has to show up and be in shape this year along with finding a good combination along the OL. Unfortunately for Chiefs fans, this team is not very good right now.
Ron (Washington DC): Keith, If Jason Campbell struggles this year do you see the Commanders looking elsewhere in the future?
Keith Kidd: No I don't. The reasons behind the hiring of Jim Zorn is to develop Campbell even more. I've seen enough of him to know that he can be the QB of the future. You have to love the Commanders draft from the standpoint of some big, physical receivers on the outside. That's what this offense needs.
Keith Kidd: But it's going to take some time with him. He's playing in a brand new system again.
Kev (NYC): Simply put. Why are corners so overpaid in this league? (i e. Hall, Samuel, Clements etc.)
Keith Kidd: Because of the multiple spread sets and 3 WR packages that offenses have. Teams now have adjusted that they need 3 quality CBs to match up. That gives them more flexibility to matchup in their defensive schemes.
alex (st louis. MO): what would TB give up for Lito if that deal goes thru? thanks KK
Keith Kidd: Right now, I don't see him being moved. Based on what Tampa has done this offseason, I don't see them being a player in this. I think teams will get into training camp and injuries will say whether or not Lito's value increases. I think he stays in Philly this year. You have to commend him the way he's handled this.
Matt, Raleigh: If Alex Smith struggles this year under Martz can we all admit he is a bust?
Keith Kidd: Without a doubt. If Alex Smith is going to take his game to the next level, it's going to have to be under Martz. Look what Martz did for Kitna in Detroit. I think he can get Alex Smith to perform at a high level. And I think we'll see how much Detroit is going to miss Martz.
Ryan (Madison, WI): Worst team in the league - Chiefs, Falcons or Dolphins?
Keith Kidd: The Falcons. I'll put them like this - Falcons, Chiefs, Lions, 49ers and Dolphins.
Pete C (Newark DE): Keith, do you see Joe Flacco and Rice making an immediate impact for the Ravens? Will they improve on last years disaster of a season?
Keith Kidd: How can they not improve from an offensive standpoint under Cam Cameron? The defense will be good. The special teams will be awesome. I think what you're seeing here is the Ravens trying to get a deal done with Flacco to get him in camp and compete for the starting job.
Robert (Palm City, FL): Kieth, does Kellen Clemens have what it takes to lead the Jets, or is he just the latest lame (Oregon) Duck?
Keith Kidd: To me, the question is still out on him. I didn't like what I saw from him a year ago in his inability to take the job away from Pennington. But I think we get caught up in being critical of young QBs, a position that's so difficult to play in the NFL. Let's revisit this after next year.
Cory (Richland): How do you think the packers will do without brett favre?
Keith Kidd: Hey Cory, thanks for the question. To me, the Vikings have gained a lot of ground on the Packers this off-season. There are so many questions in regards to Rodgers, from a lack of playing time and given the chance, can he stay healthy? After him, you have two rookies. This could be the Achilles heel for this team. But everything else, I love about this football team.
PT (Franklin, NC): How good of a combo do you think Micheal Bush and Darren Mcfadden can be for the Raiders?
Keith Kidd: The better combo to me is McFadden and Fargas. Bush, in my mind, still has to overcome a lot just to get back on the field. He's overcoming a major injury. If he can, I think he'll be a great combination in future years.
Yamil (Little Rock, AR): Keith, who's better this year - Texans or Titans?
Keith Kidd: I'm going to go with the Texans right now, because I don't think the Titans have done enough to get me excited. They had a good year last year, but they didn't go out and do the things I expected them to do in terms of putting some playmakers around Vince Young.
Keith Kidd: The AFC South is going to be the one of the most talented division in football, along with the NFC East. It's going to be a war!!!
Rich (Cranston, RI): do you ever see a 2 QB system working in the NFL? I mean it would just be something else a team would have to plan for?
Keith Kidd: I could eventually see that. If Joe Flacco doesn't become the No. 1 in Baltimore, I could see Cam Cameron installing a system that fits Kyle Boller and another system that fits Troy Smith. I don't think we'll see the spread offense that's in college football right now, because it exposes the QB to too many big hits.
brad ( rock hill, sc): Why do people knock Matt Moore?
Keith Kidd: Hey Brad, that's news to me. Explain to me who's knocking Matt Moore. I've heard nothing but good things about him. In watching him play last year, I think this guy has a very good future. I think the Panthers are in a better situation this year if Delhomme goes out that Moore gives them a chance to win. That's not what they had a year ago early in the season.
Mad Mike (Houston): Kidder: I think that right now many think the Steelers are in better shape then they really are since they got Mendenhal. The line is still very suspect on both offense and defense and maybe at LB. I think we have a good chance to win our opener in Pittsburgh. Your thoughts......MM
Keith Kidd: You have an excellent chance to win the opener. Teams don't play their starters much in the preseason. It usually takes three weeks for teams to get into the flow. The Steelers had an extremely good draft. And the last time I looked, this team still have Roethlisberger as their QB. I think they'll be right in the mix of the AFC North.
Rich (Jacksonville, FL): Keith, in your expert opinion, does Matt Jones make the Jags roster this year?
Keith Kidd: That's going to be close. It's going to be a tight call. He's going to have to really show some growth in the OTAs and show it in training camp early. With his inability to contribute on special teams it will be tough for him, if he's not in that 1, 2, 3 range of receivers.
Rich (Cranston, RI): if reggie bush again proves that he can not make it is a every down back in the NFL...why not move him to a slot reciever?
Keith Kidd: To me, Reggie Bush is not an every down back. He's a change of pace back that has tremendous value when you detach him out in the formation and use him out of the backfield in space.
Jason (Indiana): Did you miss the memo Keith? The Bears did get a QB, they got Caleb Henie and Nick Hill. Caleb Henie was good in college but surrouded by poor talent.
Keith Kidd: Yes, if you want to put everything this season on two college Rookie free agents, good luck.
Pete C (Newark DE): Keith , what about the NFC East as the most talented?
Keith Kidd: To me, the NFC East, without a doubt.
ethan (alabama ): yeah reggie bush plays a whole lot better as a slot receiver
Keith (Carlsbad, CA): Do you like the Jacob Hester pick for the Chargers? They may have reached a bit, but he adds another dimension to an already strong offense. How will, or should, they use him?
Keith Kidd: Absolutely. How could you even think to second guess what AJ Smith has done in San Diego.
Vic (Des Moines): What do you think of the 49ers first three picks: Balmeer, Rachal, and the DB from Oklahoma? Thanks
Keith Kidd: I like what they did. Nothing real splashy, but they added three quality players that have a chance to come in and contribute this year. My biggest concerns about them is how the QB will perform, they don't have a clear cut No. 1 WR right now.
Keith Kidd: But the WR isn't that big of a deal because the Mike Martz system will make someone you've never heard of into a star.
Brandon (Bellevue, WA): Once again, I feel that the Seahawks aren't getting nearly the props they deserve. They have won 4 straight Divsision Titles, have 5 straight playoff seasons, and 3 straight years w/ ployoff wins. However, nobody is picking them to win the NFC. East Coast bias?
Keith Kidd: The Seahawks are my choice to win the NFC West this year, if that makes you feel good. The interesting thing this year is how Holmgren manages the team in his last year.
Zac (MN): Hey Keith, what kind of #s do you see Jared Allen putting up this year? Do you see the Vikings make any noise in the playoffs this year?
Keith Kidd: I think he'll have a huge impact, especially on the back end. They finished in the bottom five against the pass a year ago. They had to give up a lot to get him, but he'll have a huge impact.
Mo (Atlanta): How much of an impact will the signing of Jones/replacement of Alexander have on the Seahawks' running game?
Keith Kidd: I think it will have a huge impact, because I think Alexander hasn't performed at a high level the last few years. I think it will be a good combination of Jones and Morris and Hackett. This team was a better team last year when Maurice Morris was their RB.
Art (Vandalay): How soon do you see Matt Ryan starting?
Keith Kidd: A lot will depend on signability. Is he in camp on Day 1? But I also don't think the Falcons don't need to panic, because they have Chris Redman who can at least function in that system. If Ryan's in training camp on time, he's competing for it from Day 1.
Joseph (Boise): Who are the Top 10 QB's right now?
Keith Kidd: Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Carson Palmer, Ben Roethlisberger, Drew Brees, Matt Hasselbeck,
Tony Romo are my top 7.
Troy (Orlando): Did the Jags pay too much for Garrard?
Keith Kidd: No. What's too much? Basically, they know him better than anyone else. He's been there from Day 1 and been in their system. Based on how he played a year ago, he's the future of their franchise.
Cincinnati, Ohio: Was Keith Rivers the right pick for the Bengals?
Keith Kidd: He was the best value on the board. With Ellis already gone, he made the most sense. Let's face it, this lockerroom needs a lot of good, solid character players. He is going to have to make a huge impact on the defense to stop the run.
Eric (Reno): So you love the Packers outside of quarterback, but you give the Vikings the edge? Is T. Jackson that much better (or proven) than Rodgers?
Keith Kidd: Both teams have QB issues. And if I was choosing today, I would take Rodgers over Jackson. However, Rodgers's durability is a major concern. Even though I think Minnesota may have an edge, I still think Green Bay wins the division.
Erik (NH): Hey Keith, Do you think this is Kiffin's last year with the Raiders, regardless of record?
Keith Kidd: Who knows? However, if he doesn't start getting it going this year, I could easily see a change being made this season. From all indications, he wanted to move him out last year. We all know that Mr. Davis doesn't have a lot of patience when it comes to coaches.
Keith Kidd: Put it this way, if I get a head coaching job in Oakland, I don't think I buy a house.
Lucas (St Louis): How will the rams do this yera
Keith Kidd: I think the Rams will be much improved. You have to like the addition of Al Saunders offensively. The defense got better in the offseason. The key will be, can they stay healthy? Especially on the offensive line. They don't play in a very strong division.
Erik (NH): Hey Keith, what is all the hype about Matt Ryan? I don't see it. I see another Alex Smith or Matt Leinart. He doesn't do anything great and has very average skills. Help me understand.
Keith Kidd: How do we know if he doesn't do anything great? We have yet to see him perform in an NFL game. He was clearly the best of the QB group coming out this year. With that said, QBs need time to develop. Nobody thought that Eli Manning would go out there and win a Super Bowl, except for the Giants. It takes time to develop QBs. There are so many things involved.
Ryan (Chicago,IL): Adrian Peterson early favorite for MVP? Are the Vikings one of the top 2 teams in the NFC?
Keith Kidd: Yes to the first question. But I wouldn't put the Vikings as the second best team in the NFC.
They're behind the Cowboys, Giants, Green Bay, Seattle.
Keith Kidd: The biggest concern with the Vikings is Jackson.
Charger Jeff (Portland, OR): Hey Keith, what is Philip Rivers' ceiling? Can he elevate to top 5 status?
Keith Kidd: I think he can. Possibly. Can he excel in this offense without LT? I don't know yet. I love his swagger, but he needs to be more consistent as a passer.
Nate (Washington): Keith, Can the Eagles be a sneaky team this year with everyone focused on the Boys and Giants?
Keith Kidd: Yes they can. This team is going to be very good defensively. There's no doubt in my mind, if they can keep McNabb upright, he can put up good numbers this year. But they're still lacking a No. 1 WR and they haven't had one. I think they'll be much improved. There will be some great games in the East.
Steve (NY): Can you tell me something about the Superbowl champs? whats your prediction for them this year?
Keith Kidd: What I'm looking most forward to is to see if Eli Manning can continue what he did in the postseason and continue that level of play this season. I think he can. Also, defensively. Strahan, does he come back and play this year? This is a good football team. The only thing that keeps this team from playing deep in the playoffs is the schedule - the NFC East schedule.
lardo, miami: what kind of year will Zach Thomas have in Dallas? Pro Bowl? Who fills his role on the Miami D?
Keith Kidd: There are two concerns, the health and skill level. He's up there in age. He should be a huge factor on first and second down. But it comes down to his health. He'll be a tremendous asset in the lockerroom and around his teammates.
Jay (Kalamazoo): Keith, are you worried about the Lions' D-Line now that they gave up Shaun Rogers for peanuts?
Keith Kidd: I haven't liked anything the Lions have done this offseason. This team, after going 7-9 last season, even though they finished pooryly, has done nothing for me to get excited.
Jeremy (San Diego): Hey Kidder, do you think if the Commanders D can stay relatively healthy and play to a similar level as last year (even w/o Gregg Williams) and the offense puts up more points with Zorn's WCO, they can be right there with the Cowboys and Giants in the division?
Keith Kidd: Yeah. Anything's possible. They have to improve their pass rush. It will be interesting to see if Jim Zorn, who has never been a coordinator or head coach, handles this offense. There will be some bumps in the road for him.
Ryan (Chicago, IL): Why does Jackson it get bashed so much? He played just as well as Young last year but everyone wants to always sing Youngs praises but Jackson just gets bashed.
Keith Kidd: I'm not bashing Jackson. I thought the one thing the Vikings needed to do last offseason was go out and get a veteran QB. This team is good. Hopefully with another season and offseason, Jackson will get this team in a position to get into the playoffs. He just needs to stay within the system and not try to do it all himself.
Brandon (Chicago): Keith, how do the Bears still have question marks at RB after they drafted Matt Forte? Talk to me.
Keith Kidd: Maybe because he's a rookie and there's a lot that's involved with a rookie playing that position. But, I was referring more to Cedric Benson. I don't count rookies until they start playing. Not many rookies come into the league and make a big impact their first year. There are some, but not a whole lot. And he's not Adrian Peterson, the last time I looked.
Newt (jacksonville): Do you think we label QBs as busts too quickly. Was Phil Simms a bust? Steve Young? The game has changed, but sometimes top-tier talent takes longer to hone.
Keith Kidd: Great point. Each QB is different. Some QBs can come in the league and handle a very difficult situation much earlier in their career than other guys. Much like we want to go out and grade a draft after the first season when it takes 3-4 years to grade. We give these rookies all this money and the expectations are so high. Then when they don't live up to the expectations, we want to call them a bust.
Shon (Vegas): Bears fans are overly optimistic, if they think Forte and two free agent rookie qbs will fix their offensive ineptitude.
Brandon (Chicago): By the way, people are talking about the Bears like they were in 2006. We were in the superbowl 2 years ago. We get Mike Brown and Dusty Dvorchek back, a healthier Urlacher and Tommie Harris. The Bears are being overlooked.
Keith Kidd: It's been great. It's always great talking NFL with the 'Nation. Make sure to check us out each and every Friday during the summer at noon ET. Have a great and safe weekend. Enjoyed it, thanks.
