All this week the AFC East blog posted its "Show and Prove" series for 2013. This highlighted eight players in the division with a lot to prove this season. You can see the full lineup here.
But let’s take a look back at the “Show and Prove” Class of 2012 and see if they flopped or graduated with flying colors.
No. 1: LT Nate Solder, New England Patriots
What he must prove: “Solder has huge shoes to fill,” I wrote before the 2012 season. “He has to prove that he can replace a Patriots legend in Matt Light, who recently retired after a stellar career with New England. Light was a reliable force at left tackle protecting quarterback Tom Brady's blind side most of Brady's career. The change will put a huge spotlight on Solder.”
Analysis: Solder passed with good results. The Patriots pushed the tempo and led the NFL in total offense and points score. Brady also stayed healthy and played all 16 games. New England’s running game also was stronger than it had been in previous seasons. Solder helped pave the way for 1,200-yard rusher Stevan Ridley and proved to be New England’s long-term solution at left tackle.
Result: Thumbs up
No. 2: WR Brian Hartline, Miami Dolphins
What he must prove: “Hartline, by default, must prove he is a legitimate No. 1 receiver,” I wrote last year. “Miami traded Pro Bowl receiver Brandon Marshall to the Chicago Bears for two third-round picks this offseason. The Dolphins didn't take a receiver high in the draft or make any significant additions in free agency. That leaves Hartline trying to make the jump from a complementary receiver to a No. 1 threat.”
Analysis: Perhaps no player in the AFC East made a bigger jump from training camp to the end of the 2012 season than Hartline. He was injured and actually on the roster bubble for much of the offseason. Hartline was on the sidelines and couldn’t show his worth to a new coaching staff. Fortunately for Hartline, other receivers in Miami were struggling, as well. Therefore, first-year head coach Joe Philbin stuck with Hartline, who finally got healthy and came around in the regular season. It wasn’t long before he became rookie quarterback Ryan Tannehill’s biggest playmaker. Hartline led the Dolphins with 1,083 receiving yards and turned it into a five-year, $31 million extension with the team.
Result: Thumbs up
No. 3: QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, Buffalo Bills
What he must prove: “Fitzpatrick must prove that he is a franchise quarterback. The Bills certainly are paying him like one,” I wrote last year. “Fitzpatrick received a $59 million contract extension during the 2011 season. But he struggled down the stretch, got injured and lost eight of his last nine starts.”
Analysis: The 2012 season was a no-excuse year for Fitzpatrick, and he never lived up to his contract. Fitzpatrick was the same inconsistent, streaky player he’s always been and led Buffalo to another 6-10 record. Fitzpatrick had a knack for turning over the football at the worst possible times. Fitzpatrick simply wasn’t a franchise quarterback, and the Bills made a huge error. Fitzpatrick was released this offseason and signed to be a backup with the Tennessee Titans.
Result: Thumbs down
No. 4: Shawne Merriman, Bills
What he must prove: “First, Merriman must stay healthy,” I wrote last year. “He suffered back-to-back season-ending Achilles injuries, and Merriman must prove he's fully recovered and can play close to a full season for the first time since 2009.”
Analysis: Despite Achilles issues the previous two seasons, the Bills brought back Merriman in hopes that “Lights Out” could add something to their pass rush. It turned out Merriman still lacked the explosiveness that once made him a good player. He was a bench player for the Bills who didn’t offer much. He retired after the season.
Result: Thumbs down
No. 5: QB Tim Tebow, New York Jets
What he must prove: “Tebow, first and foremost, has to prove he can be an asset to the Jets, who acquired him in a trade with the Denver Broncos this offseason,” I wrote last year. “New York's coaching staff is behind Mark Sanchez as the starting quarterback, but the team wants to find creative ways to get the most out of Tebow's abilities. That includes the Wildcat, special teams and maybe a few surprises.”
Analysis: The hype was immense. Tebow was coming off a playoff victory with Denver and was expected to push Sanchez in New York, but that never materialized. Instead, Tebow had a strange year in New York where he was used poorly at Wildcat, H-back and special teams. When Sanchez struggled, Tebow also was passed over for third-string quarterback Greg McElroy, which was a sign that Jets’ coaching staff didn't think Tebow was capable of leading the team. He was a bust in New York and eventually released.
Result: Thumbs down
No. 6: DE Jared Odrick, Dolphins
What he must prove: “Odrick must prove that he's ready to be a full-time starter,” I wrote last year. “Odrick, a former first-round pick, has eight starts the past two seasons.”
Analysis: Odrick is a former first-round pick, who is solid at several things, but not really special at anything. Odrick played all 16 games and started 12 at defensive end for the Dolphins last year. He was solid against the run, but didn’t offer much of a pass-rushing threat. That led to Miami drafting No. 3 overall pick Dion Jordan in this year’s draft. Odrick has some versatility and is getting a look inside at defensive tackle. He’s a good piece to have on your team. But Odrick proved last year that he’s not a game-changer.
Result: Thumbs down
No. 7: DB Devin McCourty, Patriots
What he must prove: “McCourty must prove his stellar rookie year wasn’t a fluke,” I wrote last year. “New England’s 2010 first-round pick took the NFL by storm as a rookie with 82 tackles, seven interceptions and two forced fumbles. McCourty looked like a genius pick by the Patriots and made the Pro Bowl. But McCourty had a huge sophomore slump in 2011.”
Analysis: McCourty struggled at cornerback so much that Patriots head coach Bill Belichick made him a full-time safety. McCourty had a few ups and downs, but actually proved to be a decent safety. McCourty may not be a shutdown corner some thought he would be after his rookie year. But McCourty’s versatility to play all positions in the secondary makes him a valuable asset in New England’s defense.
Result: Thumbs up
No. 8: RT Wayne Hunter, Jets
What he must prove: “Hunter must prove he's a starting right tackle,” I wrote last year. “The 2011 season was his first as a full-time starter, and it was a disaster.”
Analysis: Hunter became infamous with Jets fans. In terms of balance, strength and lack of consistency, he was arguably the worst starting offensive tackle in football in 2011. Hunter’s struggles continued in camp with the Jets, who eventually cut ties and made a trade with the St. Louis Rams for another bust in Justin Smith. The trade, as expected, didn’t work out well for either team. But at least it got Hunter out of New York, where he was eaten alive by the Jets fans and media. It also allowed the Jets to discover relative unknown Austin Howard, who played decent football at right tackle last season.
Result: Thumbs down
But let’s take a look back at the “Show and Prove” Class of 2012 and see if they flopped or graduated with flying colors.
No. 1: LT Nate Solder, New England Patriots
What he must prove: “Solder has huge shoes to fill,” I wrote before the 2012 season. “He has to prove that he can replace a Patriots legend in Matt Light, who recently retired after a stellar career with New England. Light was a reliable force at left tackle protecting quarterback Tom Brady's blind side most of Brady's career. The change will put a huge spotlight on Solder.”
Analysis: Solder passed with good results. The Patriots pushed the tempo and led the NFL in total offense and points score. Brady also stayed healthy and played all 16 games. New England’s running game also was stronger than it had been in previous seasons. Solder helped pave the way for 1,200-yard rusher Stevan Ridley and proved to be New England’s long-term solution at left tackle.
Result: Thumbs up
No. 2: WR Brian Hartline, Miami Dolphins
What he must prove: “Hartline, by default, must prove he is a legitimate No. 1 receiver,” I wrote last year. “Miami traded Pro Bowl receiver Brandon Marshall to the Chicago Bears for two third-round picks this offseason. The Dolphins didn't take a receiver high in the draft or make any significant additions in free agency. That leaves Hartline trying to make the jump from a complementary receiver to a No. 1 threat.”
Analysis: Perhaps no player in the AFC East made a bigger jump from training camp to the end of the 2012 season than Hartline. He was injured and actually on the roster bubble for much of the offseason. Hartline was on the sidelines and couldn’t show his worth to a new coaching staff. Fortunately for Hartline, other receivers in Miami were struggling, as well. Therefore, first-year head coach Joe Philbin stuck with Hartline, who finally got healthy and came around in the regular season. It wasn’t long before he became rookie quarterback Ryan Tannehill’s biggest playmaker. Hartline led the Dolphins with 1,083 receiving yards and turned it into a five-year, $31 million extension with the team.
Result: Thumbs up
No. 3: QB Ryan Fitzpatrick, Buffalo Bills
What he must prove: “Fitzpatrick must prove that he is a franchise quarterback. The Bills certainly are paying him like one,” I wrote last year. “Fitzpatrick received a $59 million contract extension during the 2011 season. But he struggled down the stretch, got injured and lost eight of his last nine starts.”
Analysis: The 2012 season was a no-excuse year for Fitzpatrick, and he never lived up to his contract. Fitzpatrick was the same inconsistent, streaky player he’s always been and led Buffalo to another 6-10 record. Fitzpatrick had a knack for turning over the football at the worst possible times. Fitzpatrick simply wasn’t a franchise quarterback, and the Bills made a huge error. Fitzpatrick was released this offseason and signed to be a backup with the Tennessee Titans.
Result: Thumbs down
No. 4: Shawne Merriman, Bills
What he must prove: “First, Merriman must stay healthy,” I wrote last year. “He suffered back-to-back season-ending Achilles injuries, and Merriman must prove he's fully recovered and can play close to a full season for the first time since 2009.”
Analysis: Despite Achilles issues the previous two seasons, the Bills brought back Merriman in hopes that “Lights Out” could add something to their pass rush. It turned out Merriman still lacked the explosiveness that once made him a good player. He was a bench player for the Bills who didn’t offer much. He retired after the season.
Result: Thumbs down
No. 5: QB Tim Tebow, New York Jets
What he must prove: “Tebow, first and foremost, has to prove he can be an asset to the Jets, who acquired him in a trade with the Denver Broncos this offseason,” I wrote last year. “New York's coaching staff is behind Mark Sanchez as the starting quarterback, but the team wants to find creative ways to get the most out of Tebow's abilities. That includes the Wildcat, special teams and maybe a few surprises.”
Analysis: The hype was immense. Tebow was coming off a playoff victory with Denver and was expected to push Sanchez in New York, but that never materialized. Instead, Tebow had a strange year in New York where he was used poorly at Wildcat, H-back and special teams. When Sanchez struggled, Tebow also was passed over for third-string quarterback Greg McElroy, which was a sign that Jets’ coaching staff didn't think Tebow was capable of leading the team. He was a bust in New York and eventually released.
Result: Thumbs down
No. 6: DE Jared Odrick, Dolphins
What he must prove: “Odrick must prove that he's ready to be a full-time starter,” I wrote last year. “Odrick, a former first-round pick, has eight starts the past two seasons.”
Analysis: Odrick is a former first-round pick, who is solid at several things, but not really special at anything. Odrick played all 16 games and started 12 at defensive end for the Dolphins last year. He was solid against the run, but didn’t offer much of a pass-rushing threat. That led to Miami drafting No. 3 overall pick Dion Jordan in this year’s draft. Odrick has some versatility and is getting a look inside at defensive tackle. He’s a good piece to have on your team. But Odrick proved last year that he’s not a game-changer.
Result: Thumbs down
No. 7: DB Devin McCourty, Patriots
What he must prove: “McCourty must prove his stellar rookie year wasn’t a fluke,” I wrote last year. “New England’s 2010 first-round pick took the NFL by storm as a rookie with 82 tackles, seven interceptions and two forced fumbles. McCourty looked like a genius pick by the Patriots and made the Pro Bowl. But McCourty had a huge sophomore slump in 2011.”
Analysis: McCourty struggled at cornerback so much that Patriots head coach Bill Belichick made him a full-time safety. McCourty had a few ups and downs, but actually proved to be a decent safety. McCourty may not be a shutdown corner some thought he would be after his rookie year. But McCourty’s versatility to play all positions in the secondary makes him a valuable asset in New England’s defense.
Result: Thumbs up
No. 8: RT Wayne Hunter, Jets
What he must prove: “Hunter must prove he's a starting right tackle,” I wrote last year. “The 2011 season was his first as a full-time starter, and it was a disaster.”
Analysis: Hunter became infamous with Jets fans. In terms of balance, strength and lack of consistency, he was arguably the worst starting offensive tackle in football in 2011. Hunter’s struggles continued in camp with the Jets, who eventually cut ties and made a trade with the St. Louis Rams for another bust in Justin Smith. The trade, as expected, didn’t work out well for either team. But at least it got Hunter out of New York, where he was eaten alive by the Jets fans and media. It also allowed the Jets to discover relative unknown Austin Howard, who played decent football at right tackle last season.
Result: Thumbs down
Patriots sign fourth-round pick Josh Boyce
May, 24, 2013
May 24
4:30
PM ET
By
James Walker | ESPN.com
The New England Patriots signed rookie receiver Josh Boyce to a four-year contract, the Boston Herald reports.
The total value of the contract reportedly is worth $2.637 million. Boyce was New England’s fourth-round pick and will compete with several receivers for the No. 2 and No. 3 receiver roles with the Patriots.
New England now has five of its seven draft picks under contract. Second-round pick Aaron Dobson and seventh-round pick Michael Buchanan are the two unsigned picks remaining for the Patriots.
Show and prove: Dolphins' Jonathan Martin
May, 24, 2013
May 24
2:30
PM ET
By
James Walker | ESPN.com
The AFC East blog continues its "Show and Prove" series for players in the division in 2013.
Next up, we take a look at Miami Dolphins left tackle Jonathan Martin.
2012 stats: 16 starts
What he must prove: Martin has to prove that he can make the switch full-time from right tackle to left tackle, which is one of the toughest transitions in the NFL level. Fortunately for Martin, he played left tackle most of his career at Stanford University protecting college teammate Andrew Luck. Martin is a smart player who understands the mechanics of the position. However, he has big shoes to fill replacing four-time Pro Bowl left tackle Jake Long.
Walker’s 2013 outlook: Opinions vary on Martin’s ability to make the switch. I thought he was more consistent on the right side last season and struggled when facing top competition on the left side. The thing I’m most concerned with is Martin’s strength. But Martin did a good job of adding noticeable bulk in the offseason in his upper body. What made Long so good was his consistency. In his prime, Long would go weeks without a bad play or allowing a sack. Martin still has to prove his consistency in Year 2. His development is one of the most important storylines for Miami this season.
That is the final installment of "Show and Prove" in the AFC East this week. For a recap, here's a look at the "Show and Prove" Class of 2013.
Next up, we take a look at Miami Dolphins left tackle Jonathan Martin.
2012 stats: 16 starts
What he must prove: Martin has to prove that he can make the switch full-time from right tackle to left tackle, which is one of the toughest transitions in the NFL level. Fortunately for Martin, he played left tackle most of his career at Stanford University protecting college teammate Andrew Luck. Martin is a smart player who understands the mechanics of the position. However, he has big shoes to fill replacing four-time Pro Bowl left tackle Jake Long.
Walker’s 2013 outlook: Opinions vary on Martin’s ability to make the switch. I thought he was more consistent on the right side last season and struggled when facing top competition on the left side. The thing I’m most concerned with is Martin’s strength. But Martin did a good job of adding noticeable bulk in the offseason in his upper body. What made Long so good was his consistency. In his prime, Long would go weeks without a bad play or allowing a sack. Martin still has to prove his consistency in Year 2. His development is one of the most important storylines for Miami this season.
That is the final installment of "Show and Prove" in the AFC East this week. For a recap, here's a look at the "Show and Prove" Class of 2013.
- No. 1: Running back Lamar Miller, Dolphins
- No. 2: Linebacker DeMario Davis, Jets
- No. 3: Defensive end Mark Anderson, Bills
- No. 6: Wide receiver Stephen Hill, Jets
- No. 7: Cornerback Alfonzo Dennard, Patriots
- No. 8: Left tackle Jonathan Martin, Dolphins
Jets being hypocritical with Mike Goodson?
May, 24, 2013
May 24
12:40
PM ET
By
James Walker | ESPN.com
This month, a couple of fringe New York Jets -- Cliff Harris and Claude Davis -- were arrested for marijuana possession. The Jets swiftly cut both players without hesitation and without letting the legal system run its course.
Last week, potential starting running back Mike Goodson was arrested on drug and weapons charges. Yet Goodson will return to practice next week, as the Jets allow the legal system to run its course.
Are the Jets being hypocritical? The answer is yes.
It’s easy for the Jets to cut bait on a couple of players who have a slim chance to make the team. But when it’s a potential starting running back who recently signed a three-year, $6.9 million contract, New York suddenly expresses patience with off-the-field misconduct.
The Jets are taking a wait-and-see approach with Goodson because they need the tailback. New York’s offense is in shambles and cannot afford to lose talented players.
But what message does this send to the Jets’ locker room? Is there a “star system” developing in New York? Will potential starters not be held accountable or to the same standard as fringe players and backups?
This is an important time for Jets first-year general manager John Idzik to establish a culture and identity in New York. However, Idzik dropped the ball with these two situations.
Idzik’s regime cannot be inconsistent with off-the-field misconduct when it’s convenient. Either have patience with troubled players and let the legal system run its course, or have a low or zero-tolerance policy. The worst thing Idzik can do is play the fence on this issue, which is what he's done with Goodson, Harris and Davis. That sends a confusing message to the Jets' locker room.
» NFC Eight in the Box: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
How does each AFC East team look at running back, and what still needs to be done?
Buffalo Bills: The Bills have one of the NFL’s strongest duos in C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson. They complement each other very well. Spiller is a dynamic home run hitter, while Jackson runs hard between the tackles. Both players are also versatile enough to catch out of the backfield. Former Bills head coach Chan Gailey could never figure out how to effectively use both players. Spiller was mostly underused on Gailey’s watch until the second half of last season. New head coach Doug Marrone is expected to learn from Gailey’s mistakes. Spiller as the primary ball-carrier, with Jackson as the backup, would make a dangerous combination.
Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins have an intriguing situation at running back. After 2012 starter Reggie Bush left Miami for the Detroit Lions in free agency, the Dolphins are left with three relative unknowns at tailback. Second-year player Lamar Miller is the projected starter. He showed tremendous flashes during his rookie season and led Miami backs with 4.9-yards-per-carry average. Miller fits Miami’s West Coast offense well but needs to do a better job in pass protection as an every-down back. Backup Daniel Thomas never lived up to his high draft status but isn’t bad as a second or third option. Thomas will compete with 2013 fifth-round pick Mike Gillislee, who many think is a nice sleeper pickup for the Dolphins. This is an unknown group that could end up better than advertised.
New England Patriots: The Patriots are well-stocked at running back. It starts with starter Stevan Ridley, who led the Patriots with a career-high 1,263 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns in 2012. Ridley fit in well with New England’s up-tempo, spread offense. Backup Shane Vereen is expected to fill the third-down role vacated by Danny Woodhead, who signed with the San Diego Chargers in free agency. New England also added burly tailback LeGarrette Blount, who can add toughness and help in short-yardage situations. Leon Washington is the fourth running back on the team but is primarily a kick returner. The running game could be even more important in 2013 now that New England had a major makeover at wide receiver and has injury concerns with tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez.
New York Jets: The Jets are in a tough spot at running back. Free-agent signee Mike Goodson was arrested last week and faces drug and weapons charges. He was expected to compete for the starting job in New York, but now his future with the Jets is uncertain. First-year general manager John Idzik is trying to change the culture in New York and could make an example of Goodson for poor off-the-field behavior. That would leave New York with a not-so-impressive trio that includes projected starter Chris Ivory and backups Bilal Powell and Joe McKnight. This is not a trio who will scare an NFL defense. The Jets are in the middle of a long rebuild, and that includes not having many weapons on offense.
How does each AFC East team look at running back, and what still needs to be done?
Buffalo Bills: The Bills have one of the NFL’s strongest duos in C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson. They complement each other very well. Spiller is a dynamic home run hitter, while Jackson runs hard between the tackles. Both players are also versatile enough to catch out of the backfield. Former Bills head coach Chan Gailey could never figure out how to effectively use both players. Spiller was mostly underused on Gailey’s watch until the second half of last season. New head coach Doug Marrone is expected to learn from Gailey’s mistakes. Spiller as the primary ball-carrier, with Jackson as the backup, would make a dangerous combination.
Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins have an intriguing situation at running back. After 2012 starter Reggie Bush left Miami for the Detroit Lions in free agency, the Dolphins are left with three relative unknowns at tailback. Second-year player Lamar Miller is the projected starter. He showed tremendous flashes during his rookie season and led Miami backs with 4.9-yards-per-carry average. Miller fits Miami’s West Coast offense well but needs to do a better job in pass protection as an every-down back. Backup Daniel Thomas never lived up to his high draft status but isn’t bad as a second or third option. Thomas will compete with 2013 fifth-round pick Mike Gillislee, who many think is a nice sleeper pickup for the Dolphins. This is an unknown group that could end up better than advertised.
New England Patriots: The Patriots are well-stocked at running back. It starts with starter Stevan Ridley, who led the Patriots with a career-high 1,263 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns in 2012. Ridley fit in well with New England’s up-tempo, spread offense. Backup Shane Vereen is expected to fill the third-down role vacated by Danny Woodhead, who signed with the San Diego Chargers in free agency. New England also added burly tailback LeGarrette Blount, who can add toughness and help in short-yardage situations. Leon Washington is the fourth running back on the team but is primarily a kick returner. The running game could be even more important in 2013 now that New England had a major makeover at wide receiver and has injury concerns with tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez.
New York Jets: The Jets are in a tough spot at running back. Free-agent signee Mike Goodson was arrested last week and faces drug and weapons charges. He was expected to compete for the starting job in New York, but now his future with the Jets is uncertain. First-year general manager John Idzik is trying to change the culture in New York and could make an example of Goodson for poor off-the-field behavior. That would leave New York with a not-so-impressive trio that includes projected starter Chris Ivory and backups Bilal Powell and Joe McKnight. This is not a trio who will scare an NFL defense. The Jets are in the middle of a long rebuild, and that includes not having many weapons on offense.
We have an interesting topic in this week’s "Poll Friday" blog in the AFC East.
So often we discuss which team will win the AFC East. But which team will finish last in 2013?
Will it be the New York Jets? The Jets are beginning a long and arduous rebuild under first-year general manager John Idzik. New York traded away its best player (Darrelle Revis) and still has many questions at quarterback. Will the Jets finish in last place during a must-win season for head coach Rex Ryan?
Or will the Buffalo Bills finish at the bottom? Buffalo was a major flop last season after signing big-name free agents last year such as defensive end Mario Williams. The Bills fired former head coach Chan Gailey and hired new coach Doug Marrone, as a result. With a new offense, a new defense, a new coach and a new quarterback, are major growing pains ahead for the Bills this season?
Could it be the Miami Dolphins? The Dolphins spent more than $204 million in total contracts and was a major winner in free agency. But spending money doesn’t always equal wins. Are the Dolphins, my sleeper pick for 2013, setting themselves up for a major disappointment and a last-place finish in the AFC East?
You can also vote the New England Patriots to finish last, although I think that would be silly considering their track record and consistency under quarterback Tom Brady and coach Bill Belichick. Also feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below.
So often we discuss which team will win the AFC East. But which team will finish last in 2013?
Or will the Buffalo Bills finish at the bottom? Buffalo was a major flop last season after signing big-name free agents last year such as defensive end Mario Williams. The Bills fired former head coach Chan Gailey and hired new coach Doug Marrone, as a result. With a new offense, a new defense, a new coach and a new quarterback, are major growing pains ahead for the Bills this season?
Could it be the Miami Dolphins? The Dolphins spent more than $204 million in total contracts and was a major winner in free agency. But spending money doesn’t always equal wins. Are the Dolphins, my sleeper pick for 2013, setting themselves up for a major disappointment and a last-place finish in the AFC East?
You can also vote the New England Patriots to finish last, although I think that would be silly considering their track record and consistency under quarterback Tom Brady and coach Bill Belichick. Also feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below.
Here are the most interesting stories Friday the AFC East:
- Miami Dolphins second-year quarterback Ryan Tannehill is an under-25 player on the rise.
- Is New England Patriots Pro Bowl tight end Rob Gronkowski a sure thing for Week 1?
- Will New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan be patient with quarterback Mark Sanchez?
- Buffalo Bills starting tight end Scott Chandler (knee) expects to be ready by training camp.
Show and prove: Patriots' Alfonzo Dennard
May, 23, 2013
May 23
5:00
PM ET
By
James Walker | ESPN.com
The AFC East blog continues its "Show and prove" series for the division in 2013.
On Thursday, we take a look at New England Patriots starting cornerback Alfonzo Dennard.
2012 stats: 35 tackles, three INTs
What he must prove: Dennard has to prove that the strong finish to his rookie season wasn’t a fluke. Dennard took over the starting cornerback job about midway into the 2012 season and never let up. The rookie fit in well with the Patriots and was tied for third on the team with three interceptions. Dennard also had some legal issues that were recently resolved. The Patriots are counting on Dennard to be focused in Year 2 and not have a sophomore slump.
Walker's 2013 outlook: I liked what I saw from Dennard last season. He was aggressive, fearless and appeared to get better as his rookie season went on. Dennard was a top-100 talent in last year’s draft who fell to the seventh round due to his pending legal issues. But the Patriots got a bargain by drafting Dennard, who should be a starter this season. He made some expected rookie mistakes last year. But I expect New England’s secondary to be better with Aqib Talib returning for a full season and Dennard having a year of experience under his belt. If both corners play well, New England’s defense could dramatically improve in 2013.
On Thursday, we take a look at New England Patriots starting cornerback Alfonzo Dennard.
2012 stats: 35 tackles, three INTs
What he must prove: Dennard has to prove that the strong finish to his rookie season wasn’t a fluke. Dennard took over the starting cornerback job about midway into the 2012 season and never let up. The rookie fit in well with the Patriots and was tied for third on the team with three interceptions. Dennard also had some legal issues that were recently resolved. The Patriots are counting on Dennard to be focused in Year 2 and not have a sophomore slump.
Walker's 2013 outlook: I liked what I saw from Dennard last season. He was aggressive, fearless and appeared to get better as his rookie season went on. Dennard was a top-100 talent in last year’s draft who fell to the seventh round due to his pending legal issues. But the Patriots got a bargain by drafting Dennard, who should be a starter this season. He made some expected rookie mistakes last year. But I expect New England’s secondary to be better with Aqib Talib returning for a full season and Dennard having a year of experience under his belt. If both corners play well, New England’s defense could dramatically improve in 2013.
Cue the circus music and get out the clown suits. The zany New York Jets are at it again.
This time, the annual backbiting is occurring earlier than usual.
One anonymous Jets player told Mike Freeman of CBSSports.com that “80 to 90 percent” of the locker room does not want quarterback Mark Sanchez under center. That's a strong statement, especially considering Sanchez is in a four-way quarterback competition.
"Everyone on the team likes Mark personally,” the Jets player said. “But there's a general feeling among some of the players that maybe it's time to give someone else a chance."
Anonymous backbiting in the media has been prevalent the past two seasons in New York, despite attempts by head coach Rex Ryan to control the locker room. This cannot make Sanchez feel too good. It also probably didn’t help that Sanchez had an awful practice on Wednesday.
Sanchez threw three interceptions in team drills when players were in shorts and there was no contact. That’s not a good sign for a quarterback trying to inspire confidence in his teammates and the coaching staff. The other options are rookie quarterback Geno Smith, Greg McElroy or Matt Simms.
However, just as big as the quarterback issue is New York's locker-room issue. Jets first-year general manager John Idzik came to New York to try to clean up the mess left behind by former general manager Mike Tannenbaum. It remains a work in progress.
Ric Tapia/Icon SMILinebacker Dannell Ellerbe is excited about his chance to be a leader on Miami's defense.Coming off a Super Bowl victory, Ellerbe had a tough decision to make in free agency: He could either be heir apparent to Lewis -- the legendary Baltimore Ravens middle linebacker who retired in February -- or aim to build his own legacy at middle linebacker with the Miami Dolphins.
Ellerbe opted not to spend the rest of his NFL career trying to fill Lewis' shoes in Baltimore. Instead, he signed a five-year, $35 million contract with up-and-coming Miami, where he believes he can make a bigger impact on the field and in the locker room.
“I wanted to come to a team where I can be a leader, where they needed me, and I can be a voice on the team,” Ellerbe told ESPN.com’s AFC East blog this week. “Basically, [the Dolphins] showed me that they really wanted me. ... They want me to be a leader of this defense.”
He is already making a good first impression with the Dolphins' coaching staff during the start of organized team activities.
“I like a lot of things that I see. He’s a bright guy,” Dolphins head coach Joe Philbin said. “He’s very business-like in the building. He comes in, gets his work done and very, very attentive. You’ve got to be strong down the middle, offensively and defensively, and he’s a guy that we’re looking for to help coordinate that front seven. We like what we’ve seen thus far.”
The Dolphins had a near-complete makeover at linebacker this offseason. Miami spent a combined $61 million on Ellerbe and former Oakland Raiders linebacker Philip Wheeler, 28. They will replace aging veterans Karlos Dansby and Kevin Burnett, who were released. Miami’s 2010 second-round pick Koa Misi, 26, is the other starting linebacker. He's playing out the final year of his rookie contract.
The Dolphins had the NFL’s 27th-rated pass defense in 2012 and struggled defending tight ends and slot receivers over the middle. Linebackers Ellerbe, Wheeler and Misi are much more athletic and have the potential to grow together.
According to ESPN.com NFL analyst Matt Williamson, the Dolphins certainly got “younger and faster” in the middle by replacing Dansby with Ellerbe.
“He can play 4-3 middle linebacker or 3-4 inside linebacker with [rookie first-round pick] Dion Jordan on board,” Williamson explained. “Ellerbe is best coming downhill. He’s a good blitzer and runs well in a straight line.”
Ellerbe is part of a strong free-agent class for the Dolphins that also includes Wheeler, former Pro Bowl cornerback Brent Grimes, tight end Dustin Keller, and receivers Brandon Gibson and Mike Wallace, who was a former rival of Ellerbe.
Wallace and Ellerbe had some heated battles the past four years as members of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Ravens. Pittsburgh-Baltimore is one of the league's most intense rivalries. Wallace joked during his introductory news conference that he doesn’t like too many Ravens but must get along with Ellerbe now that they are teammates.
“I’m with him every day and we speak every day -- it’s not anything personal,” Ellerbe said with a smile. “It’s a business. The only way it would be a problem is if we were still with the Ravens and Steelers. As long as he didn’t go to Georgia Tech, I don’t have any problems with him.” (Ellerbe starred at Georgia.)
This is an important year for the Dolphins, who haven’t made the playoffs or won the AFC East since the 2008 season. On paper, this is the strongest roster Miami has had in recent memory.
It is also a good year for the Dolphins to try to make a push in the AFC East. The New England Patriots are the perennial favorites but may have taken a step back, particularly on offense with the loss of 2012 starters Wes Welker and Brandon Lloyd and injuries at tight end. The Buffalo Bills and New York Jets also have significant changes on their rosters and coaching staffs. It could take another year or two for the Bills and Jets to get their franchises back on track.
Ellerbe will be an important factor in the Dolphins' success this season. He never missed the playoffs in four years in Baltimore and does not want his streak to end in Miami.
“The sky is the limit,” Ellerbe said of Miami’s potential. “I haven’t been around here long enough to see exactly what’s going on. But from what I see in the film room and the statistics the coaches are putting up in the first week of OTAs, I feel like the sky is the limit for us. ... It’s a lot of good things we have to build on around here.”
The “Patriots Way” is a popular saying in Foxborough. It means several things, such as no distractions, establishing a strong football culture, and playing consistent and smart football.
The Patriots, more than any NFL franchise, are machine-like in their approach. New England is a team which rarely beats itself. That explains why the Patriots have an NFL-high five Super Bowl appearances since 2001.
But unfortunately for Patriots’ players, New England’s approach to doing things spills into the front office. The Patriots are emotionless with roster decisions and not afraid to swiftly cut bait. The most recent example was New England cutting starting defensive tackle Kyle Love this week soon after learning he has diabetes. Love obviously was not happy with the decision and vented after being claimed on waivers by the lowly Jacksonville Jaguars.
That leads into quarterback Tom Brady’s comments Thursday that he wasn’t surprised New England let go of leading receiver Wes Welker. The Patriots low-balled Welker this offseason, and he eventually signed with the rival Denver Broncos. New England responded by signing Danny Amendola to a five-year, $31 million contract.
"That's what happens. This is a, like I said, it's a very tough, competitive business, and nobody appreciated Wes more than I did and what he was able to accomplish for our team,” Brady told WEEI radio station in Boston. “He's moved on; he's in a good situation with another great team and a great quarterback. We always kind of kept in touch, we always will. He's one of my best friends."
Brady understands all that goes on around him in New England. However, he is the one player immune to the “Patriot Way.”
New England never thought of letting go of Brady or playing hardball in contract negotiations, like it did with other stars like Welker. The Patriots never considered trading Brady to another team before he got too old, like it did with Randy Moss and Richard Seymour. Brady is so valuable that New England’s usual way of doing business doesn't apply. The Patriots recently worked out a three-year extension that will keep Brady in New England until he’s 40, which is unheard of with the Patriots under head coach Bill Belichick.
You would think a player as productive as Welker, who had five 100-catch seasons in New England and 118 receptions in 2012, would be treated better. But the Patriots proved again that they believe every player is easily replaceable with the exception of Brady.
It’s hard to argue with New England’s results the past dozen years. But you wonder if the Patriots’ harsh way of doing business will eventually catch up to them. Will it be easy to run the team the same once Brady is no longer the quarterback?
Brady has seen many good players come and go in New England, but rest assured the Welker decision impacted him. The two are very good friends and had tremendous chemistry together on the field. However, Brady says his focus is on being the best player he can be in 2013.
"Of course I have feelings, but those feelings are very personal to me," Brady explained. "I used to get caught up in anger and disappointment, but I don't make the decisions. These things aren't up to me. At some point you've got to realize the things that are out of your control, you've just got to let go, focus on my job and what I need to do. The game moves on, the team moves on, there's only so long you can dwell on the past, and at some point you've got to move forward.”
The Patriots, more than any NFL franchise, are machine-like in their approach. New England is a team which rarely beats itself. That explains why the Patriots have an NFL-high five Super Bowl appearances since 2001.
[+] Enlarge
Jessica Rinaldi/REUTERSQB Tom Brady has a three-year extension that will keep him in New England until he's 40, unheard of under head coach Bill Belichick.
Jessica Rinaldi/REUTERSQB Tom Brady has a three-year extension that will keep him in New England until he's 40, unheard of under head coach Bill Belichick.That leads into quarterback Tom Brady’s comments Thursday that he wasn’t surprised New England let go of leading receiver Wes Welker. The Patriots low-balled Welker this offseason, and he eventually signed with the rival Denver Broncos. New England responded by signing Danny Amendola to a five-year, $31 million contract.
"That's what happens. This is a, like I said, it's a very tough, competitive business, and nobody appreciated Wes more than I did and what he was able to accomplish for our team,” Brady told WEEI radio station in Boston. “He's moved on; he's in a good situation with another great team and a great quarterback. We always kind of kept in touch, we always will. He's one of my best friends."
Brady understands all that goes on around him in New England. However, he is the one player immune to the “Patriot Way.”
New England never thought of letting go of Brady or playing hardball in contract negotiations, like it did with other stars like Welker. The Patriots never considered trading Brady to another team before he got too old, like it did with Randy Moss and Richard Seymour. Brady is so valuable that New England’s usual way of doing business doesn't apply. The Patriots recently worked out a three-year extension that will keep Brady in New England until he’s 40, which is unheard of with the Patriots under head coach Bill Belichick.
You would think a player as productive as Welker, who had five 100-catch seasons in New England and 118 receptions in 2012, would be treated better. But the Patriots proved again that they believe every player is easily replaceable with the exception of Brady.
It’s hard to argue with New England’s results the past dozen years. But you wonder if the Patriots’ harsh way of doing business will eventually catch up to them. Will it be easy to run the team the same once Brady is no longer the quarterback?
Brady has seen many good players come and go in New England, but rest assured the Welker decision impacted him. The two are very good friends and had tremendous chemistry together on the field. However, Brady says his focus is on being the best player he can be in 2013.
"Of course I have feelings, but those feelings are very personal to me," Brady explained. "I used to get caught up in anger and disappointment, but I don't make the decisions. These things aren't up to me. At some point you've got to realize the things that are out of your control, you've just got to let go, focus on my job and what I need to do. The game moves on, the team moves on, there's only so long you can dwell on the past, and at some point you've got to move forward.”
The AFC East blog continues its "Show and prove" series for the division in 2013.
On Thurday we take a look at New York Jets second-year receiver Stephen Hill.
2012 stats: 21 receptions, 252 yards, three TDs
What he has to prove: Hill has to prove that he’s polished enough to be a starting wide receiver in the NFL. The former second-round pick came to New York very raw and with little experience catching passes at Georgia Tech. But Hill has the kind of size and speed that you like at the position. New York doesn’t have many weapons on offense this year. So Hill should get ample opportunities to prove his worth with the rebuilding Jets.
Walker’s 2013 outlook: Hill still has a long way to go based on what I saw in his rookie season. Hill had issues with drops and overall concentration, which is not a surprise considering he wasn’t asked to be a pass-catcher much in college. He must also stay healthy this season. It’s going to take a lot of coaching for Hill to be a polished receiver at the NFL level, and he did not get very good coaching with the Jets last season. This will be Hill’s second offensive system in two years. Perhaps offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg can get more out of Hill's potential in a West Coast scheme than former Jets offensive coordinator Tony Sparano. Veterans Santonio Holmes and Jeremy Kerley should get most of the receptions in New York. But Hill has the potential to at least be New York’s top deep threat this season.
On Thurday we take a look at New York Jets second-year receiver Stephen Hill.
2012 stats: 21 receptions, 252 yards, three TDs
What he has to prove: Hill has to prove that he’s polished enough to be a starting wide receiver in the NFL. The former second-round pick came to New York very raw and with little experience catching passes at Georgia Tech. But Hill has the kind of size and speed that you like at the position. New York doesn’t have many weapons on offense this year. So Hill should get ample opportunities to prove his worth with the rebuilding Jets.
Walker’s 2013 outlook: Hill still has a long way to go based on what I saw in his rookie season. Hill had issues with drops and overall concentration, which is not a surprise considering he wasn’t asked to be a pass-catcher much in college. He must also stay healthy this season. It’s going to take a lot of coaching for Hill to be a polished receiver at the NFL level, and he did not get very good coaching with the Jets last season. This will be Hill’s second offensive system in two years. Perhaps offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg can get more out of Hill's potential in a West Coast scheme than former Jets offensive coordinator Tony Sparano. Veterans Santonio Holmes and Jeremy Kerley should get most of the receptions in New York. But Hill has the potential to at least be New York’s top deep threat this season.
Here are the most interesting stories Thursday the AFC East:
- New York Jets head coach Rex Ryan was not pleased with quarterback Mark Sanchez's three interceptions in practice Wednesday.
- Buffalo Bills rookies EJ Manuel and Marquise Goodwin are working together to master the offensive playbook.
- The New England Patriots claimed another former Rutgers player off waivers: offensive tackle Kevin Haslam.
- New Miami Dolphins wide receiver Brandon Gibson is getting work in the slot.
Ryan Tannehill feels 'comfortable' in Year 2
May, 22, 2013
May 22
5:20
PM ET
By
James Walker | ESPN.com
This time last year, Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill was considered a project and an afterthought.
Few inside or outside the Dolphins’ organization expected Tannehill to be ready to start in Week 1 of 2012. Tannehill only had 20 career starts in college after spending much of his time at wide receiver. Tannehill also had the challenge of beating out veteran quarterbacks Matt Moore and David Garrard in training camp while learning the speed of the NFL game.
But all of that is in the past one year later. Tannehill did win Miami’s starting job in Week 1 and adjusted to the NFL's speed. He started all 16 games and led Miami to an unexpected 7-9 record. Now, Tannehil begins the 2013 offseason workouts as the unquestioned No. 1 quarterback.
“Last year at this time my head was spinning. I was just trying to figure out how things worked,” Tannehill said Tuesday. “I didn’t really know how the day went, how the offseason went, how practices went. So being in it a year, I am completely comfortable. Now I can go out and focus on all the little things that go into the game.”
Tannehill was in total command of Miami's offense during this week’s start of organized team activities. The Tuesday portion was open to the media, and Tannehill made several long completions to receivers Brian Hartline, Mike Wallace and Armon Binns. Tannehill also made the routine throws underneath to tight end Dustin Keller and others. The second-year quarterback was quick with his reads and knew where to go with the football.
It was clear that Tannehill put in the offseason work. If Tannehill can make significant strides in Year 2, that could put the Dolphins in position to make a playoff push this year.
“I guess one way to describe him is he’s a gym rat. He loves football; he’s been here an awful lot,” Dolphins head coach Joe Philbin explained. “He's been working out with the guys on their own, nothing orchestrated by us, well before the offseason program began. Those are all good indicators that somebody wants to be good. That’s kind of step one.
“If you don’t have players that want to be great, it’s hard for them to keep climbing and keep accelerating their development. That’s point number one that we’re excited about.”
But all of that is in the past one year later. Tannehill did win Miami’s starting job in Week 1 and adjusted to the NFL's speed. He started all 16 games and led Miami to an unexpected 7-9 record. Now, Tannehil begins the 2013 offseason workouts as the unquestioned No. 1 quarterback.
“Last year at this time my head was spinning. I was just trying to figure out how things worked,” Tannehill said Tuesday. “I didn’t really know how the day went, how the offseason went, how practices went. So being in it a year, I am completely comfortable. Now I can go out and focus on all the little things that go into the game.”
Tannehill was in total command of Miami's offense during this week’s start of organized team activities. The Tuesday portion was open to the media, and Tannehill made several long completions to receivers Brian Hartline, Mike Wallace and Armon Binns. Tannehill also made the routine throws underneath to tight end Dustin Keller and others. The second-year quarterback was quick with his reads and knew where to go with the football.
It was clear that Tannehill put in the offseason work. If Tannehill can make significant strides in Year 2, that could put the Dolphins in position to make a playoff push this year.
“I guess one way to describe him is he’s a gym rat. He loves football; he’s been here an awful lot,” Dolphins head coach Joe Philbin explained. “He's been working out with the guys on their own, nothing orchestrated by us, well before the offseason program began. Those are all good indicators that somebody wants to be good. That’s kind of step one.
“If you don’t have players that want to be great, it’s hard for them to keep climbing and keep accelerating their development. That’s point number one that we’re excited about.”
The AFC East blog continues its “Show and Prove” series for 2013 in the NFL.
Next up, we take a look at potential Buffalo Bills starting quarterback Kevin Kolb.
2012 stats: 1,169 yards, eight TDs, three INTs
What he must prove: Kolb has to prove he is worthy of being a starting NFL quarterback. He’s had ups and downs in stops with the Philadelphia Eagles and Arizona Cardinals. Now, Kolb will be part of a three-way competition with Tarvaris Jackson and rookie EJ Manuel. If Kolb is worth his salt, he should beat out a career journeyman and a first-year quarterback still trying to learn the NFL game. Kolb has the most experience of the three, but he’s also been inconsistent and prone to injuries.
Walker’s 2013 outlook: Longtime readers of the AFC East blog know I’ve thought Kolb was a legitimate franchise quarterback. He’s never had the consistency or durability to lead a franchise. This is perhaps Kolb’s final chance to prove he can be a starter. If Kolb can’t win a starting job in Buffalo, he probably can’t win a starting job with most other NFL teams. Either way, Kolb is nothing more than a stopgap option in Buffalo. The job will eventually go to Manuel whenever he’s ready. That could happen in Week 1, Week 10 or the following season. The best Buffalo can hope for is for Kolb to play decent football long enough this season for Manuel to develop.
Next up, we take a look at potential Buffalo Bills starting quarterback Kevin Kolb.
2012 stats: 1,169 yards, eight TDs, three INTs
What he must prove: Kolb has to prove he is worthy of being a starting NFL quarterback. He’s had ups and downs in stops with the Philadelphia Eagles and Arizona Cardinals. Now, Kolb will be part of a three-way competition with Tarvaris Jackson and rookie EJ Manuel. If Kolb is worth his salt, he should beat out a career journeyman and a first-year quarterback still trying to learn the NFL game. Kolb has the most experience of the three, but he’s also been inconsistent and prone to injuries.
Walker’s 2013 outlook: Longtime readers of the AFC East blog know I’ve thought Kolb was a legitimate franchise quarterback. He’s never had the consistency or durability to lead a franchise. This is perhaps Kolb’s final chance to prove he can be a starter. If Kolb can’t win a starting job in Buffalo, he probably can’t win a starting job with most other NFL teams. Either way, Kolb is nothing more than a stopgap option in Buffalo. The job will eventually go to Manuel whenever he’s ready. That could happen in Week 1, Week 10 or the following season. The best Buffalo can hope for is for Kolb to play decent football long enough this season for Manuel to develop.
AFC EAST SCOREBOARD
ABOUT THIS BLOG
James Walker
Walker joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four seasons covering the NFL and NBA for the Columbus (Ohio) Dispatch. He's a Temple graduate and Hyattsville, Md. native who lives in Miami.
