The New York Jets have been quiet this off season. There have been no bold proclamations from outspoken head coach Rex Ryan. Darrelle Revis and his contract disputes are in the rear view mirror. And so is Tim Tebow. Even with a qb controversy looming between returning starter Mark Sanchez and rookie draft pick Geno Smith, the Jets have flown relatively under the radar for a change.
Until yesterday.
Did Ryan have a flashback and start mouthing off? Did Mark or Geno give a team distracting sound bite? Did Santonio Holmes have a relapse?
Nope.
It was...of all people...Braylon Edwards.
Edwards took it upon himself to publicly endorse rookie Geno Smith with this quote.
"It's going to be a battle. Mark can't make mistakes like he has in the
past. Things have to be legit with Mark for him to be the starter
because he has a legit guy knocking at the back door."
Three things immediately come to mind after reading that quote.
1. Couldn't the same thing be said for you?
2. You just signed a couple of days ago, you weren't at mini camps.
3. Who is Braylon Edwards anyway?
Edwards, a journeyman wide receiver, just signed with the Jets a few days ago. Drafted number 3 in the 2005 draft, Edwards' career can be best summed up by the fact that he has more run ins with the law (2) than 1,000 yard seasons (1).
And what new employee comes on a job and gives corporate restructuring advise in their first week?
Edwards of all people should be of the mindset to shut the hell up and cash these last few game checks. Regardless of who's throwing the ball, Edwards will need to produce if he plans on playing in the NFL beyond this season.
What is it with the New York Jets and distractions? It may be true that you are who you hang around.
But I digress. follow @plcolter
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Unfair criticism for Cowboys' Tony Romo, Jerry Jones
As the Dallas Cowboys enter the 2013-14 season, the consistent theme is new. New name for the home stadium (AT&T Stadium), new defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin...bringing in a whole new scheme. And a new contract for embattled qb Tony Romo....much to the chagrin of not only Cowboys haters, but faithful fans as well. The NFL Network obviously agreed. They omitted Romo as one of the 100 best NFL players in 2013.
Stop playing.
It's not Romo's fault the Cowboys missed the playoffs the last three years. It's not Jerry Jones' fault either. And speaking of Big Jerry...all he did was take over a fledgling franchise, turn them into a dynasty practically overnight, and put his season ticket holders in the most elaborate sporting facility in the world. Who cares what he chooses to name his stadium?
But I digress.
If you want to see why the Cowboys are underachieving, look no further than the running game and defense. The trademark of the 90's Cowboys was a strong running game and good defense. Jerry's first Super Bowl team featured the league's leading rusher in Emmit Smith, and the league's number one defense. In 2009, the Cowboys last playoff season, Dallas finished second in the league in rushing offense...as well as defensive points per game allowed.
The last three years?....well.....um...
Dallas' rushing offense dropped to 16th in 2010, 18th in 2011, and 31st last season...averaging under 80 yards a game. Emmit Smith's high top fade must be rolling over in it's grave.
And for the defense?
31st in the league in points allowed per game in 2010, 16th in 2011, and 24th last year. A far cry from their 2009 collective effort.
And what about Romo?
Since Dallas last made the playoffs in 09 (6th), Tony Romo's passing offense finished 6th in 2010, 7th in 2011, and 3rd last season. Sure, he may not slit his wrist after an interception, but Romo has been getting it done. The passing game, and Romo specifically, have done their part.
Fix the run game...fix the defense....fix the Cowboys. follow @plcolter
Stop playing.
It's not Romo's fault the Cowboys missed the playoffs the last three years. It's not Jerry Jones' fault either. And speaking of Big Jerry...all he did was take over a fledgling franchise, turn them into a dynasty practically overnight, and put his season ticket holders in the most elaborate sporting facility in the world. Who cares what he chooses to name his stadium?
But I digress.
If you want to see why the Cowboys are underachieving, look no further than the running game and defense. The trademark of the 90's Cowboys was a strong running game and good defense. Jerry's first Super Bowl team featured the league's leading rusher in Emmit Smith, and the league's number one defense. In 2009, the Cowboys last playoff season, Dallas finished second in the league in rushing offense...as well as defensive points per game allowed.
The last three years?....well.....um...
Dallas' rushing offense dropped to 16th in 2010, 18th in 2011, and 31st last season...averaging under 80 yards a game. Emmit Smith's high top fade must be rolling over in it's grave.
And for the defense?
31st in the league in points allowed per game in 2010, 16th in 2011, and 24th last year. A far cry from their 2009 collective effort.
And what about Romo?
Since Dallas last made the playoffs in 09 (6th), Tony Romo's passing offense finished 6th in 2010, 7th in 2011, and 3rd last season. Sure, he may not slit his wrist after an interception, but Romo has been getting it done. The passing game, and Romo specifically, have done their part.
Fix the run game...fix the defense....fix the Cowboys. follow @plcolter
Monday, July 22, 2013
Hernandez will place eyes on Meyer, Ohio State
Ohio State head coach Urban Meyer must be thinking...what else can go wrong this summer?"
His star running back, Carlos Hyde, has been suspended indefinitely following an altercation in a bar this past weekend. Hyde has not been arrested, so his status could change pending the outcome of the investigation. Three other Buckeye players ran afoul of the law over the off season, and faced disciplinary action by Meyer.
On it's own merit, these incidents would've been easily forgotten once the season started. After all, the Buckeyes are coming off an undefeated season...and are once again favored to win the Big Ten Conference. Meyer and his Buckeyes were denied a shot at a national title last season. They can thank Jim Tressel for that. Now...all eyes will be on Meyer and Ohio State, to see how he disciplines his players going forward.
They can thank Aaron Hernandez for that.
Meyer recently caught some heat for allegedly being an enabler, and not a disciplinarian when Aaron Hernandez was a member of his Florida Gators. There are rumors of multiple failed drugs tests, and other incidents that were swept under the rug. In the short term, fair or unfair, Meyer is now linked (in small part) to Hernandez. And that story will heat up again once we get closer to a trial. Meyer has already made his public statement...but you know how messy reporters can be.
Will Meyer cave under the public pressure and lay down the law going forward...even if he has to kill an ant with a sledgehammer? Or does Meyer go easy on the punishments? After all, as far as we know, there have been no NCAA violations committed. Ohio State is in a precarious position right now. The Tressel era ended in scandal, so there will be a heightened sensitivity to any negative press right now.
On the other hand....
Carlos Hyde had 17 total touchdowns last season, and Bradley Roby is an NFL prospect caliber corner back. It's easy to tell Meyer to send a message. But he was hired to win games, not popularity contests.
We'll see which one wins out when the games start to count. follow @plcolter
His star running back, Carlos Hyde, has been suspended indefinitely following an altercation in a bar this past weekend. Hyde has not been arrested, so his status could change pending the outcome of the investigation. Three other Buckeye players ran afoul of the law over the off season, and faced disciplinary action by Meyer.
On it's own merit, these incidents would've been easily forgotten once the season started. After all, the Buckeyes are coming off an undefeated season...and are once again favored to win the Big Ten Conference. Meyer and his Buckeyes were denied a shot at a national title last season. They can thank Jim Tressel for that. Now...all eyes will be on Meyer and Ohio State, to see how he disciplines his players going forward.
They can thank Aaron Hernandez for that.
Meyer recently caught some heat for allegedly being an enabler, and not a disciplinarian when Aaron Hernandez was a member of his Florida Gators. There are rumors of multiple failed drugs tests, and other incidents that were swept under the rug. In the short term, fair or unfair, Meyer is now linked (in small part) to Hernandez. And that story will heat up again once we get closer to a trial. Meyer has already made his public statement...but you know how messy reporters can be.
Will Meyer cave under the public pressure and lay down the law going forward...even if he has to kill an ant with a sledgehammer? Or does Meyer go easy on the punishments? After all, as far as we know, there have been no NCAA violations committed. Ohio State is in a precarious position right now. The Tressel era ended in scandal, so there will be a heightened sensitivity to any negative press right now.
On the other hand....
Carlos Hyde had 17 total touchdowns last season, and Bradley Roby is an NFL prospect caliber corner back. It's easy to tell Meyer to send a message. But he was hired to win games, not popularity contests.
We'll see which one wins out when the games start to count. follow @plcolter
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Countdown to Titans camp: Quarterbacks
The 2013-14 Tennessee Titans football season officially kicks off a week from today. We've taken a look at the receivers, running backs, and defense. Our series will conclude today with the quarterback position.
If judged purely by draft status, then Jake Locker...8th overall pick in the 2011 draft...has been a bust. There were questions about Locker's accuracy (54%) coming out of the University of Washington.
It hasn't improved by the way...but you can't knock the Titans selection for three reasons.
1. With the departure of Vince Young, Tennessee desperately needed a qb.
2. Cam Newton was already selected with the number 1 pick.
3. From what we've seen, QB's Blaine Gabbert and Christian Ponder (taken 10th and 12th) would've done no better.
Former NFL qb and current ESPN analysis Ron Jaworski ranked Locker 31st out of 32 projected starters for the upcoming season. And for good reason.
Locker was the only rookie qb that had to sit behind a veteran in 2011. First time head coach Mike Munchak took the conservative approach, electing to go with "way past his prime" veteran Matt Hasselbeck. Locker won the job entering the 2012 season, but missed five games with a shoulder injury. A blown assignment and missed block (by the same offensive lineman believe it or not) lead to the crushing blow that sidelined Locker. In fact, Jake was sacked 25 times in 10 and a half games.
You do the math.
Sure, Locker didn't have much time to throw, but when he did...more bad things happened than good...to the tune of 10 td's and 11 interceptions.
Ouch.
Locker did show flashes of potential when healthy, but never had a fighting chance with a mediocre running game, bad offensive line, and terrible defense. Credit Tennessee for going after offensive weapons for Locker this off season. The wide receiver, tight end, offensive line, and running back positions have all been upgraded (on paper), so there is no more excuses for Jake.
Locker and coach Munchak are playing for their jobs now. Big Bud (Adams) has already said playoffs or pink slips. Titans fans can only hope that desperation leads to a hungrier and more disciplined team in 2013. And that starts and ends with Jake Locker.
Seven more days until training camp. Welcome back NFL. follow @plcolter
If judged purely by draft status, then Jake Locker...8th overall pick in the 2011 draft...has been a bust. There were questions about Locker's accuracy (54%) coming out of the University of Washington.
It hasn't improved by the way...but you can't knock the Titans selection for three reasons.
1. With the departure of Vince Young, Tennessee desperately needed a qb.
2. Cam Newton was already selected with the number 1 pick.
3. From what we've seen, QB's Blaine Gabbert and Christian Ponder (taken 10th and 12th) would've done no better.
Former NFL qb and current ESPN analysis Ron Jaworski ranked Locker 31st out of 32 projected starters for the upcoming season. And for good reason.
Locker was the only rookie qb that had to sit behind a veteran in 2011. First time head coach Mike Munchak took the conservative approach, electing to go with "way past his prime" veteran Matt Hasselbeck. Locker won the job entering the 2012 season, but missed five games with a shoulder injury. A blown assignment and missed block (by the same offensive lineman believe it or not) lead to the crushing blow that sidelined Locker. In fact, Jake was sacked 25 times in 10 and a half games.
You do the math.
Sure, Locker didn't have much time to throw, but when he did...more bad things happened than good...to the tune of 10 td's and 11 interceptions.
Ouch.
Locker did show flashes of potential when healthy, but never had a fighting chance with a mediocre running game, bad offensive line, and terrible defense. Credit Tennessee for going after offensive weapons for Locker this off season. The wide receiver, tight end, offensive line, and running back positions have all been upgraded (on paper), so there is no more excuses for Jake.
Locker and coach Munchak are playing for their jobs now. Big Bud (Adams) has already said playoffs or pink slips. Titans fans can only hope that desperation leads to a hungrier and more disciplined team in 2013. And that starts and ends with Jake Locker.
Seven more days until training camp. Welcome back NFL. follow @plcolter
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Countdown to Titans camp: the defense
The Tennessee Titans entered the new millennium as the top ranked defense in the league. Last season, Tennessee gave up a franchise worst 471 points. For the loyal fan that endured every one of the opponent's 31 touchdowns last season, it seemed like more points than that. Replays were especially tortuous, as analysis after analyst uttered the words...
"Blown coverage"...or even worse...."missed tackle".
What Tennessee lacked more than anything was an identity...and anything that remotely resembled confidence. The Titans may have addressed that issue with two key off season additions.
Upon being reinstated by commissioner Goodell for his role in "Bountygate", the Titans brought back Gregg Williams to assist defensive coordinator Jerry Gray with the defense. Williams enjoyed great success in his previous stint with the Titans. Tennessee finished as the number one defense in the league under Williams' watch in 2000. He became the Buffalo Bills head coach in 2001.
Williams is a no nonsense, tough nosed, old school coach. He simply will not tolerate the type of effort put out by that defense last year. His experience (over Gray) should immediately improve the unit from a preparation and scheme standpoint. And his previous success with the team should be encouraging to Titans fans.
The second biggest addition to the Titans defense was strong safety Bernard Pollard. Like Williams, Bernard Pollard is a no nonsense, tough nosed, old school strong safety. Pollard will tell you that he's about to knock you out...then back it up with a "hit stick" shot. His presence on the defense should benefit Tennessee both on and off the field.
Pollard brings championship experience and veteran leadership to a unit that was arguably the worst on the team last year. His presence at strong safety will also allow Michael Griffin to return to his natural role of free safety. Pollard has already established a "unit bonding" night in which all the safeties meet up and hang out away from the facility. He credits former Ravens safety Ed Reed for implementing that tradition in Baltimore.
Tennessee added a couple of 300 pound linemen to help beef up the defensive line...a defensive line that often looked like they were playing on roller skates last year. The corner backs are set with Alterraun Verner and Jason McCorty, but it's time for linebacker Akeem Ayers to shed the "potential" label, and take his game to a high draft pick level. Simply not enough impact plays.
With so few changes to the defensive side of the ball, the Titans could be sending a message that last year's fiasco of a defense simply needed an attitude adjustment.
We'll see if that's true, because if it's not..... follow @plcolter
"Blown coverage"...or even worse...."missed tackle".
What Tennessee lacked more than anything was an identity...and anything that remotely resembled confidence. The Titans may have addressed that issue with two key off season additions.
Upon being reinstated by commissioner Goodell for his role in "Bountygate", the Titans brought back Gregg Williams to assist defensive coordinator Jerry Gray with the defense. Williams enjoyed great success in his previous stint with the Titans. Tennessee finished as the number one defense in the league under Williams' watch in 2000. He became the Buffalo Bills head coach in 2001.
Williams is a no nonsense, tough nosed, old school coach. He simply will not tolerate the type of effort put out by that defense last year. His experience (over Gray) should immediately improve the unit from a preparation and scheme standpoint. And his previous success with the team should be encouraging to Titans fans.
The second biggest addition to the Titans defense was strong safety Bernard Pollard. Like Williams, Bernard Pollard is a no nonsense, tough nosed, old school strong safety. Pollard will tell you that he's about to knock you out...then back it up with a "hit stick" shot. His presence on the defense should benefit Tennessee both on and off the field.
Pollard brings championship experience and veteran leadership to a unit that was arguably the worst on the team last year. His presence at strong safety will also allow Michael Griffin to return to his natural role of free safety. Pollard has already established a "unit bonding" night in which all the safeties meet up and hang out away from the facility. He credits former Ravens safety Ed Reed for implementing that tradition in Baltimore.
Tennessee added a couple of 300 pound linemen to help beef up the defensive line...a defensive line that often looked like they were playing on roller skates last year. The corner backs are set with Alterraun Verner and Jason McCorty, but it's time for linebacker Akeem Ayers to shed the "potential" label, and take his game to a high draft pick level. Simply not enough impact plays.
With so few changes to the defensive side of the ball, the Titans could be sending a message that last year's fiasco of a defense simply needed an attitude adjustment.
We'll see if that's true, because if it's not..... follow @plcolter
Monday, July 15, 2013
Countdown to Titans camp: run game
The 2013-14 Tennessee Titans football season is less than two weeks away. Last time we previewed the wide receivers. Today...the run game.
Tennessee's run game was abysmal at the start of last season, and the offensive line was atrocious. They didn't have time to hold themselves accountable...they were already flattened by the bus that Chris Johnson threw them under....game after game. CJ had no room to talk, he was often seen pulling an MC Hammer in the backfield on short yardage situations.
But I digress.
As the season went along, the run game did improve, and CJ finished the season with just under 1,500 total yards (1,243 rushing 232 receiving). But don't let those numbers fool you, the Titans were 21st in the league in rushing offense, and could not run the ball when they needed to...short yardage situations.
Hopefully that will change this year.
Running back Shonn Greene was picked up as a free agent this off season. Greene was a 1,000 yard rusher the last two seasons for a terrible Jets offense, and will be the first legitimate threat to Johnson's carries since the LenDale White days. Johnson was a rookie then.
Chemistry with the running back unit could be a problem. CJ has already publicly stated that he does not agree with Greene's signing. And we all know that CJ is all about one thing...his stats. Head coach Mike Munchak has already stated that Greene's role will not be relegated to short yardage back. Munchak went as far to suggest that he will go with the "hot hand" in game situations.
Uh oh.
In a perfect world the Titans would envision a two back system, with Johnson doing the heavy lifting and Greene...who's more of a power back...finishing off drives.
But who lives in a perfect world..right? And this is CJ we're talking about. Could he become a distraction?
The offensive line got a huge boost with the addition of Chance Warmack, who was drafted with the 10th overall pick in this year's draft. Several quality free agents, including a much needed center, were added to the mix as well. Injuries kept the starting unit from playing together during mini camps. They must gel quickly when training camp begins if the running game is to improve this season. Quarterback Jake Locker desperately needs them to come through this year.
Next up...the defense. follow @plcolter
Tennessee's run game was abysmal at the start of last season, and the offensive line was atrocious. They didn't have time to hold themselves accountable...they were already flattened by the bus that Chris Johnson threw them under....game after game. CJ had no room to talk, he was often seen pulling an MC Hammer in the backfield on short yardage situations.
But I digress.
As the season went along, the run game did improve, and CJ finished the season with just under 1,500 total yards (1,243 rushing 232 receiving). But don't let those numbers fool you, the Titans were 21st in the league in rushing offense, and could not run the ball when they needed to...short yardage situations.
Hopefully that will change this year.
Running back Shonn Greene was picked up as a free agent this off season. Greene was a 1,000 yard rusher the last two seasons for a terrible Jets offense, and will be the first legitimate threat to Johnson's carries since the LenDale White days. Johnson was a rookie then.
Chemistry with the running back unit could be a problem. CJ has already publicly stated that he does not agree with Greene's signing. And we all know that CJ is all about one thing...his stats. Head coach Mike Munchak has already stated that Greene's role will not be relegated to short yardage back. Munchak went as far to suggest that he will go with the "hot hand" in game situations.
Uh oh.
In a perfect world the Titans would envision a two back system, with Johnson doing the heavy lifting and Greene...who's more of a power back...finishing off drives.
But who lives in a perfect world..right? And this is CJ we're talking about. Could he become a distraction?
The offensive line got a huge boost with the addition of Chance Warmack, who was drafted with the 10th overall pick in this year's draft. Several quality free agents, including a much needed center, were added to the mix as well. Injuries kept the starting unit from playing together during mini camps. They must gel quickly when training camp begins if the running game is to improve this season. Quarterback Jake Locker desperately needs them to come through this year.
Next up...the defense. follow @plcolter
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Countdown to Titans camp: Receivers
Let's face it, the Tennessee Titans as we know them are at a crossroads. If the Titans stumble out of the gate and produce another season like last year's 6-10 performance, you best believe the 2014-15 franchise will bear no resemblance to this one. That includes General Manager, Coach, Quarterback, and probably you too Chris Johnson.
Titans fans are facing the possibility of enduring a third "franchise qb" rebuilding project since 2006, and owner Bud Adams is not getting any younger. He desperately wants his team to return to the Super Bowl one last time before the Big Man calls him home.
Everything is riding on this season...for everyone.
With that being said, and with the 2013-14 season less than two weeks away, let's take an early look at our "new look" Titans. Today...the receiving corp.
Tennessee hired a fiery new position coach in former NFL receiver Shawn Jefferson, and by all accounts, the receiving corp has been the most impressive unit coming out of mini camps. Jefferson could often be heard shouting expletives at his receivers, for both good and bad plays. He's already publicly called out one receiver for not fighting through an injury, and Jefferson's in your face style has definitely lit a fire under a unit that has underachieved recently.
The key players:
Kenny Britt: Britt is the wild card in all of this. The Titans passing game will only go as far as Britt's knees (and decisions) will take them. When last healthy, Britt was one of the most dominant receivers in the game. Britt ended the 2010 season on a tear and opened the first two games of 2011 with an insane 17 catches, 289 yds, and 3 tds. Britt was lost for the 2011 season with an acl injury shortly thereafter and didn't look the same last season. Britt entered this year's camp in the best shape of his career.
He can do the math:
1. He's in the final year of his contract... + 2.The Titans took a receiver in the 1st and 2nd round of the last two drafts... = Britt better perform this year. Spending an off season out of the operating and court room for a change is a welcoming sign.
Kendall Wright: Drafted in the first round last year, Wright delivered. Kendall lead the team in receptions, and tied for the lead in rookie receptions. Although right was solid, he was only just that. Wright had 18 more catches than second place Nate Washington, but old man Nate had more yards. Not a good look. Wright entered this year's camp 15 pounds lighter, and is already looking more explosive. Time will tell if that will lead to bigger plays on the field.
Justin Hunter: Keep an eye on rookie second round pick Justin Hunter this year. His progression, or lack thereof, could have an impact on Kenny Britt's future with the team. Hunter has already been called out by his position coach, for resting a sore hamstring during mini camps. If Hunter can get healthy, and get caught up to speed relatively quickly, then the receiving corp hierarchy is up for grabs. And the competition should be good for the entire untit.
Nate Washington: Also seeing the writing on the wall, the steady veteran of this unit had the best mini camp of all. If Wright and Hunter can develop, then Washington could move to a more suited role of slot / possession receiver. The Titans have to get more speed on the outside.
Next up...running backs / offensive line. follow @plcolter
Titans fans are facing the possibility of enduring a third "franchise qb" rebuilding project since 2006, and owner Bud Adams is not getting any younger. He desperately wants his team to return to the Super Bowl one last time before the Big Man calls him home.
Everything is riding on this season...for everyone.
With that being said, and with the 2013-14 season less than two weeks away, let's take an early look at our "new look" Titans. Today...the receiving corp.
Tennessee hired a fiery new position coach in former NFL receiver Shawn Jefferson, and by all accounts, the receiving corp has been the most impressive unit coming out of mini camps. Jefferson could often be heard shouting expletives at his receivers, for both good and bad plays. He's already publicly called out one receiver for not fighting through an injury, and Jefferson's in your face style has definitely lit a fire under a unit that has underachieved recently.
The key players:
Kenny Britt: Britt is the wild card in all of this. The Titans passing game will only go as far as Britt's knees (and decisions) will take them. When last healthy, Britt was one of the most dominant receivers in the game. Britt ended the 2010 season on a tear and opened the first two games of 2011 with an insane 17 catches, 289 yds, and 3 tds. Britt was lost for the 2011 season with an acl injury shortly thereafter and didn't look the same last season. Britt entered this year's camp in the best shape of his career.
He can do the math:
1. He's in the final year of his contract... + 2.The Titans took a receiver in the 1st and 2nd round of the last two drafts... = Britt better perform this year. Spending an off season out of the operating and court room for a change is a welcoming sign.
Kendall Wright: Drafted in the first round last year, Wright delivered. Kendall lead the team in receptions, and tied for the lead in rookie receptions. Although right was solid, he was only just that. Wright had 18 more catches than second place Nate Washington, but old man Nate had more yards. Not a good look. Wright entered this year's camp 15 pounds lighter, and is already looking more explosive. Time will tell if that will lead to bigger plays on the field.
Justin Hunter: Keep an eye on rookie second round pick Justin Hunter this year. His progression, or lack thereof, could have an impact on Kenny Britt's future with the team. Hunter has already been called out by his position coach, for resting a sore hamstring during mini camps. If Hunter can get healthy, and get caught up to speed relatively quickly, then the receiving corp hierarchy is up for grabs. And the competition should be good for the entire untit.
Nate Washington: Also seeing the writing on the wall, the steady veteran of this unit had the best mini camp of all. If Wright and Hunter can develop, then Washington could move to a more suited role of slot / possession receiver. The Titans have to get more speed on the outside.
Next up...running backs / offensive line. follow @plcolter
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Howard's departure sheds new light on Dwayne Wade
Today I read an article on espn.com that reports: The Lakers lost Dwight Howard to free agency because they were non committal when it came to Kobe passing the torch.
Howard's camp was reportedly upset that Kobe is looking to play beyond the 2013-14 season, the final year of his contract. Bryant has already voiced his desire to win two more championships, and the Lakers will leave the torch in his hands to do so. Howard's camp is even rumored to have asked the Lakers if they would release Kobe through the amnesty clause.
Stop playin.
With everything the Black Mamba has accomplished in the city of Los Angeles, he deserves the right to leave on his own terms...whenever that may be....even if he was rehabbing from a broken neck.
But I digress.
Who's at fault is irrelevant. What I really came out of this article with was a new found respect for Dwayne Wade.
Wade was already the man in Miami. A face of a franchise. A champion. Dwayne Wade was a beloved player (outside the city of Dallas) with a pristine reputation.
Then came LeBron's decision.
And from that moment on it became LeBron's team, for better, and in the case of the 2011 Finals...for worse. Wade went from being a beloved champion to a villian overnight. The Heat were booed without mercy in every arena outside of Miami. Everyone was now rooting against him.
If we all knew that LeBron choked in his first Finals appearance with the Heat, then you know Dwayne Wade did too. He never threw LeBron under the bus (at least not publicly), and even accompanied LeBron to the often difficult post game news conferences.
Wade took less money, and was handed the roll of Robin, all before he signed off on the Big 3 experiment. Make no mistake about it, this was Wade's call. He swallowed his pride, and did what was best for the team, even when he knew someone else would get the credit.
And the result?
Back to back NBA titles, and three overall. His place in history is now set, even if he never returns to the hardwood. Do you want to be right? Or do you want to be happy?
Wade looked pretty happy on that podium. follow @plcolter
Howard's camp was reportedly upset that Kobe is looking to play beyond the 2013-14 season, the final year of his contract. Bryant has already voiced his desire to win two more championships, and the Lakers will leave the torch in his hands to do so. Howard's camp is even rumored to have asked the Lakers if they would release Kobe through the amnesty clause.
Stop playin.
With everything the Black Mamba has accomplished in the city of Los Angeles, he deserves the right to leave on his own terms...whenever that may be....even if he was rehabbing from a broken neck.
But I digress.
Who's at fault is irrelevant. What I really came out of this article with was a new found respect for Dwayne Wade.
Wade was already the man in Miami. A face of a franchise. A champion. Dwayne Wade was a beloved player (outside the city of Dallas) with a pristine reputation.
Then came LeBron's decision.
And from that moment on it became LeBron's team, for better, and in the case of the 2011 Finals...for worse. Wade went from being a beloved champion to a villian overnight. The Heat were booed without mercy in every arena outside of Miami. Everyone was now rooting against him.
If we all knew that LeBron choked in his first Finals appearance with the Heat, then you know Dwayne Wade did too. He never threw LeBron under the bus (at least not publicly), and even accompanied LeBron to the often difficult post game news conferences.
Wade took less money, and was handed the roll of Robin, all before he signed off on the Big 3 experiment. Make no mistake about it, this was Wade's call. He swallowed his pride, and did what was best for the team, even when he knew someone else would get the credit.
And the result?
Back to back NBA titles, and three overall. His place in history is now set, even if he never returns to the hardwood. Do you want to be right? Or do you want to be happy?
Wade looked pretty happy on that podium. follow @plcolter
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