Matt Williamson: Hey Everyone-Let's get started on this chat
Luis (SB, CA): Hey Matt, what do you make of these rumors that Dallas would trade away their first rounds picks and Barber for the chance at McFadden? Why would Miami do that with Ronnie Brown showing promise and Dallas finally finding a bulldozer, never-die RB?
Matt Williamson: Sounds like the worst deal I have ever heard from the Cowboys' perspective. Is McFadden even going to be better than Barber for sure? No way.
Dave (Alexandria, VA): Will Steve Spagnuolo really want the Commanders job since he will have no say in the offensive or defensive coordinators? Are Fassel and Mooch still in the running for the job?
Matt Williamson: Looks like a three horse race, but yes, that has to detract from the allure of the job. Building things backwards there. Bad idea.
Evan (NJ): Matt, why isn't Dermontti Dawson getting any love from the HOF? 7 straight Pro Bowls, 6 straight All-Pro selections, played in 171 consecutive games. What's the scoop? they better get Rod Woodson's spot ready for next year!!
Matt Williamson: I can't believe that someone brought this up. I was going to be a Pittsburgh homer for one minute during this chat to get up on a soap box for Dirt Dawson. He was at least as deserving as the majority of the members in this past class. Best OC since D Stephenson. Superstar.
David, Fairborn, OH: Am I the only one who thinks Chad Johnson isn't going anywhere unless theres a trade that would resemble the Portis - Bailey trade from a few years ago?
Matt Williamson: I am with ya. 85 is FAR too valuable to Cincy's O to let him walk for draft picks. The only way I see something happening would be a 85 for Roy w or Larry Fitz type of trade...but then, why bother?
SprungOnSports (Long Island) : In December, I asked you "Are the Giants the most unimpressive 9-4 team you've ever seen?" What changed from that point on allowing the Giants to win it all?
Matt Williamson: Hey, I have been proven wrong over and over with the Giants this year and Sportsnation hasn't hesitated to throw it in my face. I deserve it. I actually picked against them in EVERY one of their playoff games. A few things: Eli's improvement is obvious and of course cannot be overstated. The D is much better now than then and I think it took the players and Steve Spag some time to get into sync with one another. This team has tremendous run/pass balance on both sides of the ball. Their special teams have also stepped up. Quite a run they had. I give them all the credit in the world.
Dan Snyder: Hey, we always build backwards. That is why we trade our early picks in the draft. Who needs young cheap talent?
Matt Williamson: First rounders are not cheap...but I feel ya. VERY backwards.
Greg (Cleveland): What do you make of the Browns QB situation? Will Anderson resign? Wouldn't the Browns rather get the draft picks for him and start the QB of the future:B.Quinn.
Matt Williamson: It is a great "problem" to have. They certainly do not have to move DA. Honestly though, I am not 100% sold on DA. He has some holes and if I were in charge, I would dangle him out there. I bet Clev could really gouge Chicago and other teams in similiar situations for DA's service. Don't give him away however. Stay firm. Ask a LOT.
Xander (Philly): Any shot of the Bills landing Larry Fitz or Roy Williams?
Matt Williamson: I really doubt that Fitz goes anywhere. Maybe Roy moves though and Buff would be a great fit for him. They could really use a playmaker like Williams. However, that just doesn't seem like Buff's style to be that aggressive in trading draft picks. Longshot.
Ken (Tarzana, CA): The Cardinals are trying really hard to re-sign Calvin Pace...Did you ever think that scenario would ever come up?
Matt Williamson: LOL-that sure did seem unlikely as of a year ago or so. Good fit though in this new D. I think both parties would be smart to resign.
Jason (Moon Twp): More homer talk....Is it me, or is it extremely necessary the Steelers bring in a young RB to back up FWP? Najeh is average at best, and we need to get back to Steeler football by drowning the clock, not Ben and the Run n Shoot.
Matt Williamson: Agreed. Tomlin ran Parker into the ground and he isn't the type of RB to handle that type of pounding. I am less than impressed with Davenport as well. He is a good #3. This is a deep RB draft and I expect PGH to snag someone in the top 3 or 4 rounds. However, there are not a ton of big RBs in this class.
chris (brooklyn, ny): what kind of moves do you see the Giants making in the off-season?
Matt Williamson: They are built for the long haul. I just put together their needs and I see them as S, OLB, WR, OT, DT in that order-but in reality, none of those are extremely pressing. But, if they lose G Wilson, S is a major need for sure. Strahan could retire, but Kiwi looks like an edge rusher to me more than a LB. Nice situation to take the best player available more or less.
Jonny (LA): Asante Samuel...worth it for the Jets, or is he somewhat overrated?
Matt Williamson: They sure do need one more top CB, but I would concentrate more resources with the pass rush, DL and front 7 overall before asking Samuel (who will cost a fortune) to cover all day long without much of a rush. Would be nice to take him off a rival, but for the $$$, I would probably not condone that move.
Steve ( Providence, RI: Will the Dolphins go after Assante Samuel to help with there DB problems?
What about Flo Adams from Dallas?
Matt Williamson: Similiar sitiatuon with Samuel for Miami, but actually for them, I think it makes more sense. Puts Parcells and Co on the map. Need a vet back there in the secondary. Plus, they can pick a front seven guy very high. Still-risky for that amount of dough.
I doubt Adams leaves town and I would think younger for Miami-they are not just one vet or two away.
ROb (NYC): I was happy Zimmerman got into the HOF, but Gradishar was also very deserving .. How come the Broncos get shunned from Canton ?
Matt Williamson: How do the Broncos get shunned from Canton? They just had someone elected! I don't think I would vote for Grad. Very good player, but not elite.
Jack (Toronto): So...Super Bowl loser going to miss the playoffs again next year? I didn't think it would happen with the Bears this year, but that's one odd stat.
Matt Williamson: It sure is. I NEVER think it is going to happen, but is ALWAYS does. Gotta think an 18-1 team in a terrible division should be able to break that streak however.
Andy (Denver): Do you think the Broncos will move Javon Walker? Does he have any trade value?
Matt Williamson: I would bet that they would like to get rid of him, but not for what he will demand after anther injury. I bet he would only yield a fourth round pick. For that, I would keep him.
Finn (Seattle, WA): It's not much of a streak since the Seahawks broke it just a couple of years ago.
Matt Williamson: Lets call it a trend then.
Bill (Pomona California): Hey Matt, follow up on the Jets question: Who would they get in free agency as pass rushers for the 3-4 which they're bound to play? Not like there are a lot of choices, and the price is sure to be steep. Do they sign Assante and hope to draft someone with the 6th pick?
Matt Williamson: I really don't like where NYJ sits right now for the off season, esp the draft. They can get Golston or Harvey with that pick, but that is overpaying. They have too many needs to move up for C Long. Kind of in a bind. Not a ton of pure 3-4 DL and LBs out there this year, but signing someone like Clark Haggans wouldn't be a terrible move to put opposite Thomas. Still, should draft one. Also should trade Vilma for picks.
Scott (Dayton , Ohio): Trade Shaun Rogers for Villima (Jsts)is a good move for both teams?
Matt Williamson: That actually isn't too bad. I think Rogers is the better football player, but his effort is so up and down. Could make both teams better if the cap works out.
Mikey(Lackwanna,NY): Matt, Who do you think will end up drafting DE Chris Long?
Matt Williamson: If I were Parcells I would take Long #1. Maybe Ryan, but I REALLY like Long-zero downside. Won't get out of the top 3. STL would be crazy to pass on him as well.
Josh, NC: Is Marvin Harrison over the hill enough for the Colts to spend ANOTHER pick on a WR for Peyton Manning? Or do they look to shore up their defense with a runstopping linebacker or something in the 2ndary? Thanks...
Matt Williamson: Can't say Marvin is over the hill. They know his health much better than we will ever know though. They do need three quality WRs in that O, but they also might lose both starting OGs and could use a DT for sure. D Clark could leave. Free agency will tell the story.
Paul (Albany, OR): So Chris Long is a better pick for the Rams than Jake Long? I would be very happy with either, BUT don't you start with the offensive line? Especially with Pace nearing the end?
Matt Williamson: Besides QB, I put the most stock in DL (both DT and DE). NYG showed how you can control a game with a top notch DL. That isn't a knock on Jake Long, but STL and esp Linehan needs someone to step in and play NOW. That is C Long. Then...OG in round two makes a lot of sense or a OT that starts his career inside.
Chris (Kalamazoo, Michigan): Plain and simple, is there ever going to be ANY hope for the Lions?
Matt Williamson: Wow. It looks slim. I actually liked Det's free agent moves and DDay selections when they happened last year, but now fixtures like Roy W and Rogers want out. That is a major problem, plus Kitna is declining quick. Trouble.
Dan (Portland): Matt, love your work. With Zorn as the new OC for WAS, will the current crop of WRs suffice in the WC offense? Thanks.
Matt Williamson: I think they need a bigger more physical WR. Not their #1 need, but not far off. Would really help a young QB like Campbell-esp near the goal line.
Farhan (New York, NY): Do you think the Pats are going to trade down in the first round? Any linebackers out there they might be interested in?
Matt Williamson: They are certainly someone who does a great job of moving around the draft board to fit their needs and I expect it again this year. Dan Connor has NE written all over him, but not as early as they select. Could have major CB and LB needs by DDay. WR if Moss leaves?
andy athens ohio: what do u think of the browns going into the offseason and into next year?
Matt Williamson: They don't have a first rounder, but could potentially deal DA. They are also an aggressive team in free agency and will not hesitate to ink a big named guy. They need DL first and foremost. The rest of that D could come together very quickly with a difference maker or two up front. Haynesworth will be franchised, but I would bet that they would love to get a hold of him. Shallow market.
Brian (Brooklyn): Was this just lightning in a bottle for the Giants, or are they the favorite in the NFC going into next year?
Matt Williamson: Too early to say that.
Dallas is still quite good and they have two first round picks. GBay is still excellent and should acatually be better next year if #4 returns. They look like the Big 3, but lets at least see how the off season goes before making next year predicitons!
Jack (Toronto): Flacco to the Bears in the middle of round 2?
Matt Williamson: I love it. Great fit.
ben plattsburgh: dare I say? is eli manning a top 5 qb?
Matt Williamson: No. I would take these guys all over Eli right now: Peyton, Brady, Ben, Palmer,
Romo, Favre. Maybe McNabb. Could be missing someone (like Hass), but Eli is top 10, not top 5.
Charlie ( Charlotte): Is Jake Delhomme the starter in Carolina? Or will they give it to Matt Moore, or perhaps someone else?
Matt Williamson: Has to be Delhomme. Fox must win now and Delhomme gives them the best chance to do that. He was on fire before his injury this year remember.
Bryan, Jacksonville: Greg williams is being reported as the new DC of the Jaguars , what do you think of this hire?
Matt Williamson: Excellent hire. Proven. Great work. Jax is close.
Mike (San Diego): Do the Chargers need a CB, or are they set with Paul Oliver as a nickle back?
Matt Williamson: I assume they will lose their #3 CB-why can't I remember his name? Florence-there I go. Anyways, SD doesn't have HUGE DDay needs, so taking a CB (& Safety) makes sense early on. Oliver came into the NFL so late it is very tough for me to guess where he is in his development. If they dont address CB, assume they love Oliver. Make sense?
Ed (J'ville): Packers and Faneca a good match?
Matt Williamson: Not really. He is more of a power guy instead of a mobile zone blocker. He moves well, but his mobility is declining to some degree. GB isn't big on signing huge $$$ free agents either.
ben plattsburgh: if the rams draft dorsey do they move carriker to end?
Matt Williamson: I doubt it. I know they like Carriker and Ryan, but both are better fits at DT than DE. Rotation.
Jake (San Diego): Did your opinion of Philip Rivers change after the playoffs?
Matt Williamson: A little-still not much of a fan here though.
John.C(Bethlaham Park,NY): Lance Briggs as a Buffalo Bill! Do you think Dick Jauron can make it happen?
Matt Williamson: Been asked that a lot and I do think it makes sense. My only reservation is that I think Buff could use a MLB more than OLB as Puz would be better off on the outside. I also personally think that Briggs is a bit overrated, but it does make sense.
Majeed: T/F: Chargers will win it all next year.
Matt Williamson: I fee ya...but would never bet on their head coach. Sorry.
Bryon(ALabama): Do you think the Raiders would be interested in trading for DT Shaun Rogers now that Warren Sapp retired?
Matt Williamson: YES. Had not thought of that, but he is the PERFECT Raider. Super talented. DT is their biggest of many needs.
John (Georgetown On): Which OT do you believe would be the best fit for the Bears at #14.
Matt Williamson: Clady would be a home run, but I promise that he is gone. Chi is in a tough spot in relation to their needs. C Williams maybe, but that seems a little early. Same with Otah. Could be a good team to move up or down. How about Brohm at #14?
Ryan (San Diego): Eli threw 20 picks this season...just cuz you win a super bowl with major help from your defense doesn't make you an elite qb
Matt Williamson: Agreed. I do believe that he grew up very much over this last month or so and I used to think he was a top 12 or so before this run. His stock is clearly going up, but let's not get carried away. I hosted a local PGH radio show last night and was asked a few times if I would rather have Eli or Ben. It isn't even close right now.
Jason (Northfield): Matt, Where does Haynesworth end up next season? any hope for the Broncos?
Matt Williamson: I can't see any scenerio where he leaves Tenn. They have to Franchise him. Remeber what happened to that D when he was out?
John(Buffalo): Do you think Jared Allen will try to manuver his way out of Kansas City?
Matt Williamson: Yes, but unsuccessfully. KC is a nightmare. They will franchise him. He will play there another year.
Jason (Indiana): Where does Michael "The Burner" Turner end up at next year? Where he stay in San Diego?
Matt Williamson: He will not stay in SD. SD will draft a RB pretty high. Turner could have several suitors-Hous, Sea, maybe Chi. Clev if JLew doesn't come back. There are more options than just these teams as well. He will be popular very soon.
Tony (Brooklyn, NY): What's a good website to review a team's cap situation? Thanks!
Matt Williamson: Honestly-I dont know of one that I trust. Anyone out there have one? Would love to see that myself.
ada (Dayton): I'd also take David Garrard over Eli Manning.
Matt Williamson: Give me Eli, but yeah, that is close.
John (Georgetown On): Brohm? I'd love to solve the riddle at QB that dogs this franchise, but does he have the arm strength/overall makeup to excel in Chicago? Thank you.
Matt Williamson: That is debateable. I think I would attack the other needs first before betting the bank on Brohm myself for Chi.
Jesse James: The young Panthers TE Dante Rosario from Oregon played really well the last 3 games of the season do you think he will play more next year or will it be kings Job?
Matt Williamson: Car REALLY needs to find a pass catcher to complement SSmith. Their OC (Jeff Davidson) has a heavy TE background and honestly, I was shocked that Car didn't take Olsen in round one a year ago. I bet they bring someone else in to compete.
Jeremy (NYC): M-Dub, you would have to put Brees above Eli right now right?
Matt Williamson: FOR SURE-my error
ben plattsburgh: hey now, eli is a 4th quarter magician and has proven that he can beat elite competition in elite situations, that to me is proof.
Matt Williamson: I like the guy-always have. Not bashing him, but he is not all of a sudden better than QBs like Brees and Palmer. Talk to me in two months after the shine has worn off on his SB performance a little. Still-NYG has a good one.
Clint: (Tyler, Texas): So what do you think the cowboys will do this offseason to get better?
Matt Williamson: I heard Deion say that he thought they would make some kind of huge move to make a big splash. While I don't doubt that they will one bit, I would keep what I had and build with those draft picks. Keep Flozell and Hamlin if possible and then draft a CB in the first round. Draft a RB also pretty high ( F Jones?) and keep infusing youth. They are so close, but don't give up too much for just one guy.
Matt (CT): Well ill take Eli with a RING and you can have the other guys!
Matt Williamson: Having a ring is great. In fact, it is what it is all about. But it doesn't all of sudden make someone an elite QB. Sincerely Trent Dilfer.
Renegade: You said, . "Dan Connor has NE written all over him, but not as early as they select. Could have major CB and LB needs by DDay. WR if Moss leaves? " Didn't Connor decide to come back next year?
Matt Williamson: No-Senior
That was Laurientis from Ohio State.
Jesse (Oregon): Where would you rank Mcfadden coming into this year fantasy wise?
Matt Williamson: Of course it depends what type of situation he goes to. Everyone wants to talk about him (from a FF standpoint) like A Peterson, but remember Peterson went to a team with an excellent OL. Lets say McF goes to ATL-I wouldn't get too exctied in your FF draft for him!
andre (chesapeake): which ILB is a better fit for the steelers in this year draft ?
Matt Williamson: PGH has too many other needs to address ILB high in this draft.
ROb (NYC): thanks for taking my question
Matt Williamson: Any time Brother
Mikey(Lackawanna,NY): Do you think the Bills will sucessfully trade JP Losman this offseason?
Matt Williamson: Tough call. I like Edwards, but can't say that I am ready to bet the mortgage that he is the savior. Would surely shop Losman, but better get a 1st, 2nd or 3rd rounder for him. Otherwise, he can stay as insurance.
Todd (Whitehall, PA): So your saying that Drew Brees would not be in your top 5?
Matt Williamson: Didn't say that. I said Eli would not be. Come on dude, you are a Whilehall guy (like my Dad)...pay attention! 1. Brady 1A. Peyton 3. Ben 4. Hmmm-Palmer or Brees or Favre or Romo. Leaning towards putting Romo last in that foursome.
ben plattsburgh: ok what about corey webster? similar to eli, bad in the reg. season gold in the post season? what can we giants fans expect from him next year?
Matt Williamson: He was awfully good at LSU until his senior year. Questionable pure speed. Still, with that pass rush, he is good enough. I don't exactly expect him to keep locking down #1 WRs, but legit starter.
Ian (Gainesville, Florida): Hey Matt, Where do you think "Bubba" Caldwell will go in the draft, and how do you think he will be as a pro?
Matt Williamson: He was VERY impressive at the Senior Bowl. He looks like the type of guy who will be a better pro than college player. Better than his bro. I bet he is a mid 2nd round steal.
Paxlife (LA, CA): Trent Dilfer? Oh come on now, The 2000 Ravens had a much more dominant defense than this year's Giants. Eli has officially turned the corner. He doesn't have the stats of the other qb's but he excels when it counts, IN PRESSURE SITUATIONS!!!
Matt Williamson: I agree with all that and have continually said good thinga about Eli. They only point here is that Super Bowl winning QBs do not automatically go to the top of the list. He is better than Dilfer! Relax
Kevin (NYC): Last one! I know you've touched on it, but honestly, what is Dan doing in DC?
Matt Williamson: Playing fantasy football.
Matt Williamson: Okay everyone. I am out. It was fun. I think we are scheduled to do it again next week at the same time. Have a good Tuesday
