Sunday, July 31, 2011

Britt or Bryant? That is the question

He's an explosive young wide receiver with freakish speed, power, and athleticism. He's a late first round draft pick with top five talent. His electrifying play making ability will leave you pumping your fist, and his lack of good judgement off the field will leave you scratching your head. People in the great state of Texas will immediately think I'm speaking about their second year wonder Dez Bryant. Others in the Music City will think I'm speaking of Tennessee's Kenny Britt. They're both right.

Dez Bryant of the Cowboys and Kenny Britt of the Titans are at a crossroads. Both had memorable moments on the field in 2010 and forgettable moments during the 4 1/2 month lockout. Britt and Bryant (ironically sounds like a law firm) combined for 15 touchdowns and at least six run ins with either metro police, mall security, or the DA's office. The 15 touchdowns are even more impressive when you consider that neither player even sniffed a full 16 game season. Their respective nagging injuries were attributed to coming into camp out of shape last year.

OK, even if we do chalk up the lack of conditioning and off field issues to young men attempting to find their way in life, what cannot be excused is their lack of focus when it comes to preparation. Bryant was often fined for being late, and was even caught on occasion "sleeping on the job". Britt often displayed an aloof attitude that told the Titans brass that he could care less about becoming the best player on the field, let alone the best player in the league. What frustrates the heck out of everyone is that Britt and Bryant have the physical tools to become the Rice / Irving of their generation. That is, if someone can get them to care. This season will be vital for both as veteran receivers on their respective teams were sent packing to make way for these two budding stars to shine. How bright or long that shine lasts is totally up to them.

Monday, July 25, 2011

Pay C.J.

The Tennessee Titans are probably the happiest team in the league to see the nfl resume business. The term "rebuilding mode" is an understatement for a team that has a new head coach, offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator, and starting quarterback. Who that quarterback is remains a mystery after first round draft pick Jake Locker was brought in to replace first round draft bust Vince Young. Incumbent backup Kerry Collins chose to retire, and third stringer Rusty Smith is just plain terrible. You would think the Titans most pressing issue would be to bring in a veteran backup right? Wrong.

The Titans have a major problem on their hands if they do not take care of their dread head highlight reel Chris Johnson. Johnson held out last year for more money and the Titans applied a band aid. This time Johnson has all the leverage, and will have every reason to hold out. CJ to this point is very fortunate to have avoided the major injury that could set a career back. He has the most rushing yards since entering the league, and has proved durable in the Titans run first system. Johnson should look no further than Green Bay's Javon Walker, who reported to work against his better judgement while negotiating an extension. Walker suffered a major knee injury and soon faded from memory all together. Johnson also knows the Titans must spend more money under the new CBA. And let's be honest, nobody has mistaken the Titans for being Nostradamus when it comes to evaluating first round talent. Pac Man Jones, Vince Young, Kenny Britt? Two of the players are no longer on the team and Britt has one cleat out of the door. The Titans are not putting away cap room for another blockbuster deal anytime soon.

Look CJ, the time is now to get your money. What are the chances of another 300 plus attempt season with no injuries. Regardless of the quarterback (an over the hill veteran or inexperienced rookie) the offense will do nothing without you in the lineup. The fans will quickly lose interest as you are now the sole bankable commodity. The time is now. The Titans must pay CJ.