Question
You've dropped hints to whom may be released or not retained; Guys like
McCree, Neal, Florence, Floyd, Parker, Polk, etc. Elaborate please. And who
might surprise us all & be a Bolt in '08? And is it now safe to say the DL
needs to improve (see Olshansky)?


Ryan / Pacific Grove, CA

Answer

I think I have actually said straight up that McCree will be gone
(released). Also, I have been adamant for some time that Florence will leave
as a FA.

I have hinted very strongly that Neal will be released. And I do also think
Floyd and Polk will probably be let go.

But letting Parker go would be a mistake, I think. And I think they keep
him. And I don't ever remember hinting anything about him.

Surprises? Neal could come back if he accepts a reduced role and salary,
which he won't.

As for Olshansky, that's interesting. A lot of people are asking about him.
I actually think they'll make a lowball extension offer to him any time now.
His contract runs out after '08. He is a fantastic run stopper, and he was
much improved rushing the QB in '07. I think people must understand a team
can't have Pro Bowlers at every position. If Castillo stays healthy, he's a
double digit sack guy. Put him with Merriman and Phillips -- and what more
do you want?

I know, I know, the Giants got after Brady. They played great, had a great
scheme, moving Tuck around. Their DBs covered well ... And remember this:
the Patriots offensive line did not play well. It happens.


Kevin Acee


Thursday, February 07, 2008
Question
Kevin,
I'm gonna be a pain about this question. I'll keep asking till you answer.
Apologies, cause I know you get dozens of questions each day, but I gotta
know.
Can Tra Battle play at the NFL level and do you think he can help out the
Chargers at DB next year?


JR / Fort Collins, CO

Answer

This will be the year we find out. They like him. I hear he is a hard hitter
for a little guy. He has added some weight. But he's going to need to
distinguish himself with some speed and showing he knows where to be this
offseason.


Kevin Acee


Thursday, February 07, 2008
Question
Is there an official day when veterans on the roster will get released?
Does it have to be X number of days after the season ends? Or are th
Chargers waiting until the staff gets back from Hawaii to discuss this with
AJ?

Just curious because you have frequently written or mentioned on this blog
"when Mcree gets released." Will the Chargers get rid of everyone at the
same time?


Marc / El Centro

Answer

The end of the league year, which is Feb. 29 this year.

I think it will be before that, but that's when they have to do it.


Kevin Acee


Thursday, February 07, 2008
Question
Hi Kevin:

Was McCree's (imminent) release a given once Weddle was drafted, or was it
more that MM's play this year caused it? If the latter, did he lose a step
this year, or fit less well with Cottrell's schemes? Also, if the Chargers
had not needed Dave Rayner for a weeks, causing the release of Oben, would
Oben also have been let go this off-season?


Stu Royal / Brampton, Ont. Canada

Answer

It was a given he or Hart was going. It had to do with a dropoff in his
play, the fact Weddle proved himself as a starter and Hart did well enough.

I think Oben was gone anyway. I think they're comfortable enough with Clary
and Olivea there, given Roman's foot problem and age. I think he'd be a
valuable asset to have in case of injury, but since all he can do is play
tackle, it's essentially a wasted roster spot on Sundays.


Kevin Acee


Thursday, February 07, 2008
Question
Hi Kevin, could you please give me some insight into the releasing of
McCree? Somebody is going grab him right away,and I'm afraid he will come
back to haunt us. Ex. Harrison,Seau... . In my opinion, he is the hardest
hitter on the team. Weddle and Hart , do not make for an imposing pair of
safeties. Is it just about money?


Bernard / Clairemont

Answer

Good to see someone defending Marlon. Hope you're not too lonely on that
island. Most people write me to rip him.

You're right about him being the hardest hitter, but give Weddle time. He
was a rookie. He played very well and will only get better/quicker/stronger.

p.s. I almost couldn't take you seriously when you essentially compared
McCree to Harrison or Seau. I don't mean to knock McCree, I like him a lot.
But c'mon.


Kevin Acee


Thursday, February 07, 2008
Question
I understand that Roethlisberger and E. manning have won superbowls.
However, Roethlisberger is not well received by his teammates and Eli is not
exactly full of fire. Rivers is both loved by his teammates and is by far
the toughest of the 3.

Curiously all media seem to forget that there were 4 QB's taken in the 2004
draft, yet J.P. Losman is never mentioned in the comparisons.....why is
that?


Chris / La Mesa

Answer

Last question first: He's not as good as the others. Some people did think
Losman was on (or near) the same echelon as the other three. But he was not
and is not.

I think any team would be happy to have any of the other three.
Roethlisberge will be in Pittsburgh a long time. As usual, problems with his
teammates are probably overblown. I'd say it's time people got off the "Eli
Manning is too mellow" train. Kid won a Super Bowl with a great drive and
was pretty good the entire postseason.

I think it's a safe bet that Rivers is on his way to a Super Bowl.


Kevin Acee


Thursday, February 07, 2008
Question
Kevin,
How come they didn't use Naane mor often this oseason ? when Gate was hurt
they should put him in there. we have so much of talent in this team but it
seems the coaching staff don't know who to put in in different situation.
your take on that please.


Tipi Manu / San Diego Ca.

Answer

You mean Naanee should have played more the past two games? I agree.

But I don't know that Gates should not have been in there too.

As far as the coaches not knowing how to use the talent, they did win 12 of
their last 15 games. I think as Norv Turner and Philip Rivers get more used
to each other, this offense will be incredible, because you're right, there
are a lot of weapons.


Kevin Acee


Thursday, February 07, 2008

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