"The way it looks now back-up Geoff Schwartz ... will likely sign elsewhere."

[ct]

Originally Posted by saphojunkie

The problem with Branden Albert is that we've seen elite. After watching Willie Roaf for those glorious years, it is next to impossible for me to say Albert is elite. He isn't.

He might be one of the best in the league right now, but that doesn't make him elite. He still struggles against speed rushers and frankly doesn't dominate his position the way you expect a franchise left tackle to. You don't look at Albert lined up against a talented pass rusher, then move down the line because you have sheer confidence in him. At least, I sure as hell wouldn't if I were QB.

It's just that you have to pay top dollar for a top tackle, even if he isn't "historically" elite - that is, he isn't elite for the position compared to the benchmark set by guys no longer in the league. But compared to the rest of the guys now, yes... he is "elite" and he commands a lot of money as such.

To put it another way, Branden Albert is a B+ tackle who will be paid like an A+ tackle. And for me, I'd rather have a B or B- tackle, but paid accordingly, and use that money elsewhere to get rid of a C player.

But that's me. I'm 100% in favor of dumping guys who are overpaid for their skill level, though they might not be overpaid according to their ranking in the league.

Imo THIS is how you build a roster. Including the B range QB, who I certainly hope will note be receiving an A range contract. Frankly tho every QB seems to get an A+ contract these days, so I shouldn't be surprised...