You just had to throw that L.J. thing in there didn’t ya?

In the previous post, I asked why won’t the TE talk go away and that we shouldn’t go after Tony. That was really just because I’m tired of talking about a position that I don’t think is a dire need this year. I’m of the opinion that our current TE’s are more than capable of producing the results needed from that position, especially given a full year in Smith’s system under their belt.

But, I have to admit that Tony Gonzalez presents a very intriguing posibility for us. There is no doubt that he is legit and would add another element to our already dynamic offense, as well as creating one more thing opposing defenses would have to account for. The fact that no one would give up a second rounder for him last year might force KC’s hand to deal him for a third rounder this year. If that’s the case, I don’t think I would be hurt by that at all.

Of course, this only makes me angry that we flat released Crumpler after making statements about how he wouldn’t fit into Smith’s system. Seems like going after Tony would only be backtracking on that stance.

I can say without a doubt he is a superb commodity to the Chiefs. He is our primary WR, as great a blocker you could ask for on the line or down the field. He is without a doubt the best to every play the position.

With that said, it’s a luxury, like having 2 elite receivers. He would immediately improve the recieving options for Ryan, but how many plays do the Falcons run that include the TE in a recieving role? Perhaps the playbook is expanding?

While I think a 2nd is at the high-end of the spectrum for Tony’s service, I think you’d be hard-pressed to find anything even comparable to him in the draft, or available around the league. Jason Witten is about as close as they come if you ask me, but I am not aware of how good his blocking abilities are. Tony keeps himself in great physical condition, and always comes ready to play and play his best. The guy is the “consumate professional.” He says the right things (usually), does the right things, and backs it all up with his on the field play.
In my opinion, if you’re a team that is nearly complete and needed a couple players to get over the hump, a 2nd for a guy who could play for you for well over 2 years if you’re winning and keeping him happy and close to getting or getting that ring, would be worth it.

However, I don’t see him going anywhere to be honest. I don’t think any team will give up a second for him, and I think that’s the value Pioli sees him as having to this team. If an organization does step forward who’s willing to pay that price, he’ll get moved, and I think all the fans would forget about the high price tag when the season starts…. he’s just that good.

This seems like the kind of move New England would make in the last few years – acquire a veteran who is ready to win now, while their window of opportunity was still open for another 2-4 years. This certainly doesn’t seem in keeping with TD’s professed philosophy of building through the draft.

Of course, if TD & Coach think they can get the Defense even hovering somewhere around league average, this move could/should put the offense completely over the top for the next couple years. I’d still feel a lot better about this if we could get him for a 3rd (or a 3rd & a 5th) instead of the 2nd rounder.

Just for reference – The pick the Chiefs traded for Cassel & Vrabel (#34) was 560 points on the Draft Value Chart, and our 2nd rounder (#55) is worth 350 points – a difference of 210 points (the same value as a mid-3rd-rounder: #76). It’s almost like comparing a late first rounder to an early third rounder…

Then I believe that TD is almost certain he is going to trade down from the 24th spot to gain another 2nd rounder…

I just don’t think Gonzalez is worth a second round pick at this stage in his career. Don’t get me wrong, I too agree that he is the best to ever play the position but I think we have more pressing needs that a second round pick can help address. I just don’t see him playing much longer and to give up a second round pick just seems a little much.

(1) The Birds want Tony G
(2) They are willing to part w/ their second rounder

For a hall of fame tight end that the Falcons would be thankful to get 2 years out of before he decides for retirement? ….No deal!

But any second round pick, regardless if it’s present or future, would not be cool with me, especially considering both Smitty and TD are draft oriented team builders. Do I want a great TE? Yes. Do I want Gonzalez? Not really.