Tuesday, March 4, 2008

Close, But No Cigar

Eagles fall short in acquisition of Randy Moss



All along Randy Moss wanted to stay in New England, but it didn't stop the Eagles from pursuing him.

Reports from two NFL sources are that they offered more money and more guaranteed, but Randy Moss still said he'd rather stay in New England.

Perhaps, Moss and his braintrust engaged in talks with the the Eagles to light a fire under the Patriots' asses. Or, maybe they were just curious. After all, Moss and Andy Reid spoke at length yesterday.

Where does this leave the Eagles now? They clearly know they need to upgrade at the wide receiver position. And, they can now after addressing defense. They still have a hole in the return game and are said to be after an offensive lineman in the draft.

Apparently, the Eagles offered Lito Sheppard and a second rounder for Larry Fitzgerald, but they shot it down. And, reports are the Cardinals are trying mightily to ink Fitz to an extension. So, that situation all hinges on Fitzgerald's desire to stay with Arizona (or more money).

Should that fall through, Roy Williams could be had-maybe. The Lions have a piss-poor defense and Lito Sheppard could substantially improve their defensive backfield. Could Sheppard and a #1 pick next year be enough to land Roy WIlliams? Maybe. Again, it seems that Detroit is reluctant to part with their star receiver.

It seems that there is a premium on play-making wide receivers in the NFL. If you have a good one you try to hold on to it.

In recent years the only big-time wide receivers to change teams have been Randy Moss and Terrell Owens. One of whom was on the Eagles and the other who changed teams twice, but was close to signing with the Eagles yesterday despite loving New England so much.

Back to the drawing board for the Eagles. Keep an eye on the Fitzgerald situation. They said they wanted more than Lito and a #2, so the Eagles are going to have to bring the gauntlet to get him.

Stay tuned.

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The Next Phils GM will be...

With Pat Gillick expected to hang it up after his contract runs out this season, the Phillies are going to start thinking about their next successor.

I think it's pretty obvious who it will be. Ruben Amaro Jr.

Is there any doubt? Every time a signing or trade occurs, he's the one being quoted. He's been involved in signings of players and their trades. One could argue he is the GM and Gillick just holds the title.

I think it's a mistake, because this organization needs someone from outside the organization to run the show and the man for the job is Chuck LaMar, who was hired as a consultant over the winter. He was heavily involved in the growth of young talent in Tampa Bay and would be just what this organization needs. If they have one weakness it's in their minor leagues and international signings.

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