Monday, 16 May 2011

Can Jackson lure Asomugha to the Eagles nest?



He's one of the hottest players who could be available on the market soon and its no wonder why. Nnamdi Asomugha, 29, gave up only 13 receptions throughout the whole of last season cementing his premium pass shutdown status. He most certainly has a polished reputation, he just doesn't have a team with the same characteristics yet. After 8 seasons at Oakland it looks like his time with the Raiders is about to draw to a close. Asomugha isn't getting any younger and I'm sure that he would ponce on the opportunity to get a chance of a Superbowl ring.

Like most fans of teams with defensive issues, I would without doubt welcome a fresh face in the cornerback position to accompany Asante Samuel producing a fortified and formidable pairing.

Apparently Desean Jackson shares these views as he has been reportedly trying to lure Asomugha to the Eagles ever since the Pro Bowl. Teammates in college for California, Desean is fully aware of the threat and impact Asomugha offers to the opposing offences as a first rate ball hawk.

The question is will pay disputes detour Andy Reid and the Eagles. Asomugha has always been likened to wholesome paychecks that have somewhat tarnished his otherwise pristine career so could we afford to keep him there? He will without doubt need to take a pay cut in order to come to Philly, but will greed get the better of him or will the Cowboys get to him first?

The Season Ahead: Atlanta Falcons


The Falcons came so close to what would have been only their second Superbowl appearance in their 45 year franchise history. In what was an almost flawless season from Mike Smith's team they suffered a major blip against eventual champs the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Divisional Playoffs. It was to be their most costly game so far from a team with fans that had such high expectations.

Matt Ryan has progressed ever since his rookie season back in 2008. Ryan memorable entered the NFL producing this magnificent touchdown pass in his first ever throw proving why they call him 'The Iceman' in the Georgia Dome.




For the upcoming season the offence looks to be as fearsome as ever. They now also have the added bonus of top receiver in this years NFL Draft, Julius Jones. Recent stats have shown that they are the most disciplined team giving away the least penalties. A few minor adjustments to the defensive line that averaged a fifth best 18 points conceded per game and  I believe they will go far again in the 2011-2012 season.

Projected record: 12-4
Playoffs: Yes
NFC Championship: Yes
Superbowl: Yes

Kolb, McNabb, Bulger?

Ranked the most sort after quarterbacks in the free agency at the moment, we wonder where all the big names are going to go. Reports from NFL.com suggest that the Redskins Donovan McNabb has trained with both the Vikings and Cardinals, like wise with the Eagles second string Kevin Kolb.

Kolb started as the No.1 quarterback for the Eagles in 2010 after McNabb departed to bitter rivals the Washington Redskin. His shot at stardom was short lived however when Clay Matthews knocked him out in the season opener to Green Bay. Concussed, Michael Vick stepped up to the plate and the rest is history.

There is constant speculation as to where Kolb will end up, other teams showing interest are the 49ers, Seahawks and he could also stay in Philly.

Personally I believe the best suiter for Kolb would be at the Cardinals. they have an already well structured offence built with esteemed wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald and this could pose a huge threat to an already weak NFC West.

It doesn't mean I necessarily want this scenario because the Eagles have to play the Cardinals at the Linc in week 10 and I would seriously fear another McNabb scenario similar to last season with the Redskins winning 17-12.

Ex-Rams and current Ravens reserve quarterback Marc Bulger is also currently on the market. An experience QB with over 11 years under his belt in the NFL, Bulger's most prolific season with in 2004 when he threw for 3,964 yards, 21 touchdowns and 14 interceptions - a passer rating of 93.7 for the season. Since then it does seem he has seen better days after a somewhat dismal season in 2008 where he maintained a passer rating of just 71.4.

Despite this record the Cardinals are showing interest in Bulger and introducing another veteran quarterback at the reins of their franchise.

Latest reports have suggested the Vikings have given Vince Young the opportunity to work out with their offence, questioning whether draft gamble Christian Ponder will be starter or not. The Vikings offensive line has been weak the last couple of seasons and placing a rookie quarterback in that situation could be a big mistake.  If they do intend on brining Young to their offence they could have to fight with the Raiders unless they decide to give Jason Campbell another chance.

Lets not forget about Kyle Orton as well. With Tim Tebow set to establish himself as the starter at the Denver Broncos it looks likely that they will and trade Orton and cash in with draft picks for next season. The Broncos are a side in redevelopment at the moment so despite Orton's record last season, I think this would be a wise move for them.