Quote:
Originally Posted by VeveJones007
The answer to your first question is "signing true difference-makers." Teams like Denver and NYG have shown that you can be effective targeting high-end free agents who make a real difference for your team.
Keep in mind that some of my desire to do that is because of the "use it or lose it" nature of the cap. They don't have to save much cap space to re-sign guys on expiring rookie deals over the next two years, so they will have a lot of money to spend...otherwise it's gone and a lost opportunity.
To maximize this mini rebuild, Ballard needs to
1) Hit on draft picks
2) Make smart mid- to low-tier UFA signings to stabilize the roster and create depth
3) Utilize his excess cap space in 2018-2019 to sign a couple real difference makers via UFA
#3 is pretty simple: either Ballard allocates that cap space via UFA, or it's money in Irsay's pockets. There are only so many guys you can sign to $3-5MM deals when your roster is bereft of expensive contracts.
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Good post!
An example of what you're saying is the early to mid 2000 Eagles. They were always a contender, with $20 to $30 million in spare cap space, but were always one or two players away from winning it all. What a waste!
For some strange reason though, they would never go out and get the difference makers they needed in free agency.
The Colts cannot duplicate this strategy. I get Ballard not getting difference makers this off-season. But from here on out he's got to hone in on the 1 to guys in free agency that can put this team over the top.