Jeff Ireland's curious comment about Zach
A couple of things: I am on vacation this week before gearing up for next week's Super Bowl. I have caught much of the Senior Bowl week practices on the NFL Network, which apparently is the way Bill Parcells is keeping abreast of things in Mobile as well.
I know Parcells will eventually get tape of every single practice snap, but isn't the realtime, in person view always better than tape?
Anyway, that is not the point.
This is: During his short talk with the media Wednesday, general manager Jeff Ireland said he's a big fan of Zach Thomas, but admitted he has not contacted Zach to make a commitment about having the linebacker be on the team in 2008.
This despite the fact Thomas is under contract in 2008.
Then this out of today's story in The Miami Herald: Asked whether Thomas was in the Dolphins' plans for 2008, Ireland said, ``Right now, he's on our roster, so we certainly have plans for him. In terms of tomorrow, the next day or six months down the line, we're still in the process of analyzing who's going to be a part of the future.''
What the heck does that mean? Tomorrow or in six months when training camp begins the Dolphins don't know whether they want Thomas back? This from a team that, if you believe published quotes from Trent Green's agent, has reached out to Green about playing in 2008.
So let me get this right. The team would like to see Green, who will be 38 years old, back on the roster despite the fact he missed most of the last two seasons with a concussion. But the team has not made up its mind about wanting the 35-year-old Thomas, who missed all but five starts in 2007 because of a concussion?
Where's the tough decision?
I take Zach every single time and twice on Sunday.
I hope Ireland knows something we don't. Maybe the GM knows Zach is pondering retirement or has been told by his doctor that he may not be better from the post-concussion headaches that kept him sidelined. Or maybe Ireland is setting up some sort of advantage in contract negotiations with Thomas because the team might want to lower the player's cap number and increase its cap room.
Then, and only then, would the lack of commitment about Zach's future be understandable. Of course, it is impossible to know for sure since Ireland didn't clarify his statement and Parcells hasn't returned phone calls.
But if there isn't an unstated reason for Ireland's vagueness, if there are not extenuating circumstances behind the distant approach to the Zach issue, something is wrong. If these guys simply are not certain whether Zach is worthy of bringing back because they don't know if he's still a good player when healthy, then something is definitely wrong.
Not with Zach. With the Dolphins.
Your thoughts?
I know Parcells will eventually get tape of every single practice snap, but isn't the realtime, in person view always better than tape?
Anyway, that is not the point.
This is: During his short talk with the media Wednesday, general manager Jeff Ireland said he's a big fan of Zach Thomas, but admitted he has not contacted Zach to make a commitment about having the linebacker be on the team in 2008.
This despite the fact Thomas is under contract in 2008.
Then this out of today's story in The Miami Herald: Asked whether Thomas was in the Dolphins' plans for 2008, Ireland said, ``Right now, he's on our roster, so we certainly have plans for him. In terms of tomorrow, the next day or six months down the line, we're still in the process of analyzing who's going to be a part of the future.''
What the heck does that mean? Tomorrow or in six months when training camp begins the Dolphins don't know whether they want Thomas back? This from a team that, if you believe published quotes from Trent Green's agent, has reached out to Green about playing in 2008.
So let me get this right. The team would like to see Green, who will be 38 years old, back on the roster despite the fact he missed most of the last two seasons with a concussion. But the team has not made up its mind about wanting the 35-year-old Thomas, who missed all but five starts in 2007 because of a concussion?
Where's the tough decision?
I take Zach every single time and twice on Sunday.
I hope Ireland knows something we don't. Maybe the GM knows Zach is pondering retirement or has been told by his doctor that he may not be better from the post-concussion headaches that kept him sidelined. Or maybe Ireland is setting up some sort of advantage in contract negotiations with Thomas because the team might want to lower the player's cap number and increase its cap room.
Then, and only then, would the lack of commitment about Zach's future be understandable. Of course, it is impossible to know for sure since Ireland didn't clarify his statement and Parcells hasn't returned phone calls.
But if there isn't an unstated reason for Ireland's vagueness, if there are not extenuating circumstances behind the distant approach to the Zach issue, something is wrong. If these guys simply are not certain whether Zach is worthy of bringing back because they don't know if he's still a good player when healthy, then something is definitely wrong.
Not with Zach. With the Dolphins.
Your thoughts?
posted by Armando Salguero at 10:50 AM
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96 Comments:
Take it easy. There is nothing "between the lines" on Ireland's comments.
You're blowing it out.
You're on vacation! What the heck are you doing looking for conspirances everywere!!!
Go to swimming pool and let all things take their own way. You are too paranoic.
Typical Armandooo, runs off at the mouth while vacationing from his rough job.
Guys,
Don't start playing stupid and act like this is some kind of slap in the face or that Ireland/Parcells don't know exactly what they are doing.
Zach played great for us for a long time. He left it all on the field and we would be better off if all of our guys played as hard and as well as he did. BUT
The cold fact of this business is that even the best guys eventually lose a step. I love Zach as much as the next Dolphin fan, but at this point, if we are starting over, let's start over.
This is a team game and just like Marino, Zach's teams never delivered the PRIZE. His fault or not, don't act like any one player on this underachiieving roster is the key to the future.
Thanks Zach for being the hardest worker on a team that season after season folded up down the stretch (early 2000's) and didn't show up at all the last couple of years.
Sorry guys but after years and years of focusing on veterans, it's time to focus on youth. I think everyone knows it. Why do you think Zach was so intentional in showing everyone that he was taking his parking sign with him?
Why hasn't he reached out? Well maybe he is busy scouting for the draft(something we have sucked at for a long time).
I understand reaching out to JT, as he has been rumored to thinking about retirement, and there were enought rumors about him being traded. With Zack there is no pressing need to, he will be back at MLB. I might have given him a call based on past history and who he is, but whatever. They can meet after the draft.
Armando, you sometimes write the most ridiculos stuff. If you don't trust the Parcells chain to improve the Dolphins, than you talk to Wayne and tell him you're better at this stuff than Parcells. If Zach is gone, so be it. By the time this team is turned around at the earliest, Zach will be 38. He'll definitely be gone than, so what is so bad about him leaving now.
Well, what I find curious is that according to you experts, Jason Taylor may very well be traded and John Beck is probably not the QB of the future. Both of those guys have been contacted by the Dolphins and apparently, they either won't be here next year or carrying a clip board. So whether the Dolphins have reached out to Zach or not really has no bearing on his future with the club. Have they reached out to Ronnie Brown yet? Must be because he isn't in their plans. Your theory is a little far-fetched.
You guys miss the point and that clearly is that Trent Green gets the thumbs up on contact but Zach is out in limbo. That sucks.
It sounds like a return to Cam Cameron and Randy Mueller. Ridiculous.
I'm sick and tired of the Dolphins keeping players that suck (Green, Derrick Hagan, Donnie Spragun, Joey Porter, Reagan Mauia) but get rid of good players like Wes Welker, Chris Chambers, Heath Evans and possibly now Zach Thomas.
They're keeping Trent Green? Are you friggan kidding me?
Armando makes excellent points here.
FLPD understands what this post is about.
We all like Zach a great deal. He's been the heart and soul of the D for a long, long time.
The point of the article is that Green has been asked to come back and we're not sure yet on Zach.
Smells really bad if you ask me...
tom@jax said Zach will be 38 when they turn things around. So what, turdhead? He's not 38 next year. And last I looked, they're not playing the 2011 season next year.
If a Headcoach like Shula could be let go...if a player like Marino could be dropped...why worry about Zack or any other player?
We're not talking about players in the prime...they are past that for sure...lets all give the new Dolphins management alittle time before we look for reasons to promote useless stories...or rumors.
I want not happy with last year's crew because Cam Cameron had been with a team that underachieved in the playoffs and had never really won anything in the NFL and Randy Mueller had won nothing either.
So this year we hire Parcells, Ireland and Tony Soprano. Well if Parcells is basically sitting in his office watching TV, what do we have?
A general manager who hasn't won anything in the NFL and a head coach whose team underachieved in the playoffs.
Get out of the can Tuna. Get to work!!!!
The point is the Dolphins let go of good players in the past and they end up playing really well somewhere else.
I'm afraid we're going down the same path. Zach is still a good player.
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Welcome back, Mando. Good points in this post.
I wish the Dolphins would get their crap together. I hoped that would be the case with these new guys. But so far, not so good.
Maybe they're trying to avoid Dante Culpepper part II with Trent Green and let him go out on his terms. I hope Zach is doing well. If he and Jason hang around a few years it's two less holes we have to fill immediately. God knows we have a lot of them.
Mando,
Why don't we keep Zach until he is 40 because he won us so much in the future. There is a reason Bill Parcells has coached in 3 Super Bowls and you picked Miami to win 10 games last year. He is a football genius and you are not. I trust the current regime will make things better and if being without Zach is their decision, so be it. I guarantee we have more than 1 win.
Zach is still a good player if he's healthy. They should know already whether he is in their plans for 2008 or not.
That they do not know means they are hedging their bet and that can't be good for Zach. Stupid.
Why can't the Dolphins simply have a clear message to us, the fans, and state that message?
It's the same crap all the time and as I consider renewing my season ticket, I am leaning toward sending them a clear message about my displeasure.
Dear tom@jax, the Dolphins and San Diego Chargers got rid of a linebacker they thought was over the hill. And now at 38, Junior Seau is starting in next week's Super Bowl.
Ken said Parcells has won three super bowls. He has won two super bowls and none since 1990 which was like before I was born.
To big mouth Trenton who likes to use big words like turdhead. Look in the mirror ass. Zach is not taking the Dolphins on a 16 win season in 2008 or 2009. In 2010 he'll probably be retired. Get his replacement now or another player that will still be with us in 2010 if that is what's best for the Dolphins. The future is what counts now. Not the present. The present flat out sucks.
Armando you make a good point on the observation that they have not contacted Zack, maybe they are making plans to get rid of him, but lets be truthfull we really don`t know, and if you ask me the only reason they contacted Jason and then Green is to notify if they are willing to come back this year or are they thnking of retirement, or maybe an option to play for another team, I really believe now that Cameron found a job he might be on the lookout for Green to play for the Ravens, your thoughts...
I can guaruntee you that all of you people on here that are supporting the way this is being handled would be moaning like bitches if it was Cam Cameron making this decision.
Forget the past me boy, its the now that matters and its important to know what they are going to do with the leaders in our team.
If we come to trade most of them I just hope its for teh good of the team.
To tom@jackass, you keep preaching about the now but don't you understand the now will suck that much more if we give up on a good player which Zach Thomas still is.
If I remember, that was you pissed off that the 2007 season sucked even though it was a rebuilding year. So now you say the Dolphins should get rid of good players just because they might not be around three years from now? That is stupid.
You'll be the first bitch complaining if Zach goes to the Patriots next year and helps them kick the Dolphins butts.
Trenton. I don't remember complaining about rebuilding. I remember complaining about how shitty the Dolphins played. Zach has been one of my favorites, but Marino was too. I don't think the Dolphins should bring him back. In fact he should have retired after rupturing his achilles tendon. If the Dolphins are going to start rebuilding, which they are, than they have to go with youth. Hell, for all you know, the medical staff has questioned rather Zach can even play any more. Everyone complained about Green's concussion, well one more hit and Zach's brain may turn into scrambled eggs. Time to finally and totally rebuild and give up this silly notion we're one player away from the playoffs. We're more like 15 players away. Face it. The Dolphins players really sucked. It wasn't all Cameron.
Honestly without Dolphfan bias. Zack has been done for years now. Yes he may lead the team in tackles but he misses alot of tackles also. Plus add in the fact that on say 3rd and 3 Zack will make the tackle after the person has already gained 4 yards. I am not sayng cut him but Zack is no longer starting material for 16 games. If Zack wants to stay he needs to become a back-up and take a pay cut.
"This is a talent acquisition business..." The best teams in this league understand the proper time let a player go. Joey Porter is a perfect example. As players age their value begins to drop but they have signed back-end laden contracts. It leaves the team with 2 options, let the player go via trade or FA or renegotiate their contract.
We don't know if Zack has a bigger injury than we are being led to believe. He had already come back from the concussion when he got hit by that God forsaken Patriots fan, which leads me to believe there may be a cervical spine issue or something like that we are not aware of.
Secondly, as Armando pointed out, they will definitely want to renegotiate Zack's contract if he is healthy or trade him while he still has value. Remember it's a business and though we love Zack we need cap space to acquire more talent.
The way it should work is good cop - bad cop. The GM being bad cop and HC being good cop. In this case it is Sparano who should reach out to Zack.
Anonymous said,"I guaruntee you that all of the people on here that are supporting the way THIS is being HANDLED would be moaning like bitches if it were Cam Cameron making this DECISION". 1. What is the "this" that you are talking about? There are a lot of other players that haven't gotten phone calls from management either. 2nd. Handled?! Is there a situation going on that we are not aware of or is it just that everyone is so bored that they are trying to start a controversy where there is none. 3rd. What decision are you referring to? We haven't been told there is any decision to be made! 4th Stop forming all of your opinions based on what reporters write. They are bored and need some excitement so they create scenarios and questions by trying to read between the lines. Then you read their QUESTIONS and somehow it becomes fact? NYScott
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If Thomas is under contract why would anyone have to reach out to him? If I were the GM I would assume that those under contract will play on the team next season.
As far as comparing Green and Thomas' situations don't. First of all what would it hurt to have Green on the team at the veteran minimum? (anymore than that is crazy) Secondly, who stands a better chance of sustaining another concussion? A ML who hits on every play, often leading with his head, or a QB who only gets hit 10-12 times a game?
This is without a doubt one of the funniest blogs Mando has written and some of the reactions chastizing Ireland are priceless. Ireland said he hasn't contacted Thomas to make a commitment about having him on the team in 2008. Mando states this and then writes "despite the fact that he is under contract in 2008". I'm sorry but that is one of the most ridiculous comments I have ever read in here. If he is under contract to play why should they contact him to talk about it? Are they going to do that with every player under contract? Don't we want them to concentrate on the draft right now? I know they called Taylor and Green but that's their choice. They don't have to contact every player who is under contract. That doesn't mean they don't want them anymore.NYScott
Release him...
Maybe he is contemplating retirement.
Maybe he was told by doctors he may not be better.
Maybe Ireland is setting an advantage for negotiations.
OR
Maybe they think Zachs not worthy and they don't know if he's a good player.
Really? Is there anyone familiar with football that thinks Zach Thomas isn't a good player? I highly doubt it and it seems to me that he is the exact type of player that Parcells loves,SO, I'm going to GUESS that it is one of the first three choices.NYScott
it dosen't matter. the man is not effective anymore. he used to tackle behind the line of scrimage. now it's 3-5 yards downfield. it's time for him to go.
If we don't want him he will be a Patriot next year kicking ass along side Junior Seau.
maybe they want zack to take a pay cut. Maybe they want to trade him. Who knows. Maybe Zack wants to retire. I think his answer was very good. He shouldn't come out and say hey we want you on the team right now. Even Trent green needs to take a hefty pay cut to stay on.
NYscott, they don't have to contact every player that is under contract. BUT>>>
When the GM says he doesn't know if a player under contract will be on the team "tomorrow or next week or in six months," that raises more flags than they fly at the United Nations.
I see that. I think Armando saw it. Why don't you see it. It's not that complicated.
Screw Jeff Ireland. How many Super Bowl rings does he have? I love Zach Thomas!!!!
They better not get rid of Zach
You are an idiot. If you all remember when Zach started everyone said he was too small. Well reality is small guys don't last. It is a tough game/business and when you dont produce its over. He was nursing that "car accident" for 12 games, he knew they were losing and he didn't want to get hurt so that he could be well enough to get traded, why else would he take his parking sign with him. I hope they get a couple of good picks for him and send him down the road. and maybe he can take his brother-in-law with him. so far I like what Parcells/Ireland are doing...keep up the good work
guys are talking about "just starting over" and thats well and ok, but you better have a player
who can come RIGHT IN and be a
big time producer as zach was when he came to the dolphins as a rookie.
you dont "change" just for "change". you need something to "change" too!
if the dolphins find that guy in the draft such as a dan connor type and he is OBVIOUSLY the real deal in the early camps, THEN you start easing zach out.
you dont CUT zach.
you dont TRADE zach to another losing team. he has given WAY to much to this franchise and although it IS a buisness and tough moves have to be made, zach has some game left and there is still room for CLASS by the dolphins when the time comes to make a decision.
when zach was a rookie, jj had JACK DEL RIO come in at mlb. right away, it was CLEAR that zach was for real and he outplayed the wiley, tough old veteran all through camp.
and del rio took it like a pro!
zach will take it like a pro when someone comes in who IS the real deal, but untill then, we do not have ANYONE to replace zach so talking about letting him go and "CHANGING" is not warranted at this point.
Maybe Ireland should have just kept his mouth shut, instead of feeding tripe for a gossip column. Sports reporting. Facts. That is what I expect from this blog but only get about 30% of the time. I don't know why I bother reading anymore. Ireland was just being honest and maybe too open, which he may quickly learn not to do in S Fla. Zach may not be a part of the 08 team, which is what Ireland simply stated, he might retire, or the Fins might get a decent trade offer for him. It's pretty simple. I am sure there are numerous things to report on that we are not hearing, since our local sports reports prefer making simple things into controversy; ie; gossip.
and Armondo, your snide little comment about Parcells not being at the Senior Bowl is totally unwarranted. What YOU think he should be doing no one wants to know, certainly Parcells. If you think for one minute that he does not have trusted advisers, scouts he trusts, at the Senior Bowl, then you must be smoking something or just plain stupid. A VP of Operations delegates. Instead of offering your silly opinions about what Bill "should" do, report some facts. If nothing much is happening, how about a report on the best upcoming draft prospects, beyond the first round and how they might fill need areas for the Fins. You can even go to ESPN and rip of some real reporting from them.
intelligence is good,,,,,why would Zachs uncertain future raise flags? Just because they haven't contacted him doesn't mean anything they are doing is wrong does it? You left out the fact that Ireland also said that they are still analyzing who will be part of the future. That means that they are going to do what they think is best for the TEAM. I love Zach and appreciate all of the players but my allegiance is to the team. If the gm thinks he can better the team by getting picks or a trade for an old player than I'm all for it. Now why don't you see that? I see no reason to hold on to Zach simply because we like him when they may be able to better the team by letting him go or trading him. Most likely Ireland knows they want to renegotiate with him and he is trying to get some sort of early advantage. This team sucks and has for quite a long time so anything they want to do to make it better is fine by me. Besides they aren't going to turn this around for at least three years and probably 5 until we have a chance at a superbowl. By then Zach will have been forced into retirement because he has had so many concussions already. Wouldn't it be better for both parties if Zach were traded? We can get some young talent and he can have a shot at a ring because as much as it pains me to say it, he's not getting one in Miami before he retires.
PHINFAN SAID...
Yeah Mando, taking shots at the Tuna already huh? I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that Bill Parcells is smarter than Armando Salguero when it comes to football.I'm pretty sure that has to be the school of thought down there in Florida.I'm going to have to believe that he hired a GM for a reason and that he trusts this GM to be his eyes at the senior bowl while he also watches all of the game film. But just for fun why not find Parcells and tell him how you don't think it was very professional of him to stay home and let his gm actually do the job he was hired to do. He said he was there to put a structure in place and not to be the coach or the GM, WE ALL heard him say that. Then you guys (reporters) wrote that you didn't believe it. Now he is showing you that he was telling the truth and you are questioning why he is not doing,,, what he told you he wasn't going to do,, in the first place? Is that logical?
1. The interest in Green is likely for more of a backup/insurance role. A quick fix at best.
2. Zach's contract is ridiculously high - more than he's worth at this point in his career. Given that he'd probably need to restructure to stay, there's no reason to act sure that he will.
3. The team is likely moving toward the 3-4, and as good as Zach is he IS undersized for that defense.
So let's recap. Zach's undersized for the team's defense, he's 35, he's injury prone (hasn't played a full season since '02) and his cap number is huge? As much as we all love Zach, you can't say that the best thing to do is keep him under his current contract without even thinking twice.
What's the worst that can happen Zach gets released and joins the Patriots. OUCH!
Green is cheaper to keep than let go. Green will never suit up again.
I think Zach is injury prone. They might be doing what's best for him and not the team if they let him go. I wouldn't want Zach's health on my conscious.
Zack is an outstanding player, but you all need to realize that football is a very demanding sport on the human body and it takes it's toll. I think Zack should come back next season but in a limited roll not full time. He should also realize that his best days are behind him and take a pay cut to help the team bring in more players.
You guys dissing Zach are idiots and if the Dolphins agree with you, they are idiots.
In two weeks, Tedy Bruschi, who is no bigger or younger than Zach will start for the Pats in the Super Bowl. Hello? They play a 3-4 defense. Hello? The Dolphins played a 3-4 when Saban was here and Zach went to the Pro Bowl. Hello? Anyone else want to say he's too small or too old? Idiots you are.
And I, for one, appreciate the news and information I get on this blog. That is why I am here. If you guys don't like the content, how come you continue to be on here?
Good stuff.
Let's face it, Wayne made another mistake. All the while, the Dolphins had a genius in their midst, and failed to pick the right man for the job. Yes, Dolphins fans, Armando Salguero was the better choice, clearly he has the intestinal fortitude, the mental capacity, the certain special quality, that could lead these Dolphins out of mediocrity and into the hallowed ground of Super Bowl victory. We should all pray that one day the great Mando, knower of all, seer of all, be made the head coach -- nay -- the football czar of our once-proud organization. Mandy can "read between the lines" like no one else can. He is brilliant, astute, and above all, extremely attractive and fit. Please Wayne, throw some big money at "Our-Mando", dump the Tuna, and lets begin a season that will eclipse what the Patriots are about to do. South Florida fans deserve it.
Go Our-Mando!
phinfan, this is logical: Bill Parcells is working for the Dolphins to mold them as HE sees fit. If HE is not doing it, I don't support it because Ireland and Sparano are every bit as much nobodys as Mueller and Cameron.
Otherwise, why the hell is Wayne paying the guy?
The bottom line is Armando brings up a good point. Why keep Green and not Zach?
I would rather keep Zach and not green.
5 years 5 different coaching staffs!We haven't had a good team since the mid 90's. This our first legit chance a solid future and we need to stop looking to the past.We haven't won a superbowl in over 30 years.Zach will always have my greatest respect as a warrior.Everyone loses it....Shula Marino etc. Build a team for the future and don't look back.
I thought the idea is to put as many good players on the field as possible at a given time.
I don't give a rip that Zach might be too old in 2010. I care about next year first and I have a hard time seeing them putting a better player at his position next year.
I'm not going through 1-15 again. If Zach is gone and Green is on the team, I am not buying any tickets next year. Period.
Zach is not concussed nor are his eggs scrambled.
Guys, Guys, Guys!
Who is this Zach Thomas you keep referencing?
Yes who is this "Zach Thomas" guy?
Sincerely,
Zach Thomas
Whether they keep Zack or Trent for 08 does not really matter in the l9ong run. If they do return they will serve as fillers to a team that has a lot of holes and a lot of room to grow. Fillers that will probably cost more than what they will produce and may not be on the field as much as you would like. Face it, when this team is good again neither of these players will be on the roster. I will give the new leadership about 8 games next year to see how things are going before I start to freak out...
Go Giants!
Hell maybe Marino has 8 to 10 games left in him.Why not bring him back also.
I remember Armando said on radio last January he would have liked the Dolphins to hire Mike Tomlin.
I know he's only a reporter, but if the Dolphins had done that, they probably wouldn't be in the mess they're in now.
This is simple to me. No Thomas, no ticket purchases for me.
They say they'll turn it around in three years. I'll save my $$$$ until then.
Hear that Wayne?
Everybody's responding emotionally to the possibilities that may afferct Zach's future with the Dolphins, but we need to keep in mind that as many great memories he has provided for us in the past, there is a heavy price to pay. Zach's health and family should be the most important factor in his life regardless of how anyone feels.
Excuse me, are we suppose to take Trent Green agent as a credible source? You should not have even mentioned that, even with your minor caveat. Now Zach, I love his toughness, but lets be honest dolphins have never had a championship caliber defense during the JT and ZT era. Before the offense became a shell game, (fins actually had good offensive runs with the caretaker QB and a vicious running game 2 ricky seasons of happiness). Before the fins secondary was nonexistent we had 2 pro bowlers (one in the big game now). Before the collapses prior to the season starting. The fins stacked up early season stats and evaporated in the late winter, with this very same defensive core JT & ZT.
At the age they are both at now they are not getting better, just slower. I don't think they should be treated like garbage but it is time to move on and start building a younger, bigger, and faster defense.
TRENT GREEN ???? ARE THEY FUQING STUPID???
>Why do you think Zach was so intentional in showing everyone that he was taking his parking sign with him?
This speaks volumes. It was an intentional statement. I loved Zach as a Dolphin too, but apparently its not mutual. Some folks ignore Zach's blatant display, but then accuse Ireland of not showing the love?????
What's it mean? It means Zach's gone, baby. Thank you #54 for your time and effort, but it's time for your career to follow Mr. Marino into the NFL's great hereafter.
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Green is a QB. Zach is a LB.
All other facts aside, there is no question which position affects the teams chances of winning and losing every Sunday. That's why Green is the priority, and Zach is the question mark.
"The bottom line is Armando brings up a good point. Why keep Green and not Zach?
I would rather keep Zach and not green." - Not Buying Tuna
It's not a good point at all. One has nothing to do with the other. They haven't contacted a lot of the players on the team yet so why is Zach being singled out as the one being slighted?
I agree about keeping Zach over Green any day and honestly can't figure why they would even want Green back at all. But let it play out. This whole thing is just getting started and already people are jumping to conclusions.
If what I read is correct, that Zach is under contract through 2008, why then would he need to be contacted? At this point, whether he plays is a medical concern first, then a GM/Coach decision, right? So, if the word hasn't come back if he is fit to play, why should he be contacted? Even if word came back that he is fit to play, since he is under contract through 2008, I ask again, why does he need to be contacted? If a GM decides he wants to contact certain players and not other players, that is his right/decision, is it not? The GM also reported that he plans on contacting Zach, so, really, what's the big deal here?
NYJEFF
Yes, he knows something you don't. He knows that Zach will be 35 years old this season. He knows that Zach is coming off a concussion shortened season. He also knows that although Zach has been a great player for many years Zach is no longer a great or even good linebacker. Yes he makes a lot of tackles. Those tackles are also 5, 6 or even 7 yards down field. Zach has been a great player for a long time. Unfortunately he's no longer the same player. Yes, Ireland knows something you don't. He knows that friendship and admiration for years of service aren't more important than results.
Look, they make millions to make these decision's and stir up stuff, Let Zach's ass go,and get a young buck to step in. This is a trillion dollar business, Ireland or the tuna are not looking for friends, they are looking for that fat check. Also trade J.T. for some more picks.
Zach would be good for the younger guys around him so he could show them what it really takes to play at a high level in the NFL. Provided he is healthy enough to play and takes a bit of a pay cut, then he should be welcomed back with open arms. It'd be a flat out shame if he gets run off inappropriately. Don't give me that crap about this being a business, good businesses don't treat their "Zach Thomas" type employees like yesterday's garbage.
I would take Zach Thomas back in a heartbeat. Zach has been the only one to give 100% from day one. If the other players played even half as hard as Zach then '07 would have had a better outcome than 1-15. Those close losses would have been wins for the Dolphins. Now, having said that, there is the possibility that maybe Zach's concussions are worse than we are aware of. I would love to see Zach back next season, but not at the expense of the guy being mentally crippled for life. TB's Mike Alstott had a hard decision to make in announcing his retirement due to a nagging neck injury. As hard as that was for him and Bucs fans, it will be just as hard for us to lose Zach Thomas. I wish for him to be back under his own terms, but if he has to retire due to concussions, then I wish him the very best and I thank him for his tenacity and hustle. The new Dolphin coaching staff should be smart enough to realize that they need his leadership on the team and skills on the field. However, if Zach wants to finish his career with a winning team while the Dolphins rebuild, then he deserves it. He has earned that right and we owe it to him to let him go if HE wants to. Zach, just don't go to NE.
On another note, screw "CRYgel" on NFL on Fox Sports. He badmouths and disrespects the '72 Dolphins. The '72 Dolphins have never received the respect they deserved. At least the Dolphins didn't cheat and stayed undefeated with a 40 year old QB. I'll take the '72 Dolphins over the '07 Pats any day! The '72 RBs would run all over the '07 Patsies. (Two 1,000 yd rushers-Csonka and Morris, and Jim Kiick not far behind!)
i never hear harry carson,LTorphil sims and any other player over the years say the tuna disrespected them. so why do you think he would now.zach has serious health issues,makes big moneyand this team is going in anew direction.its obvious that this guy is atuna type player no one could be that foolish to think different.but theres alot that has to be decided on both sides.to think any thing else is just stupid writing because you cant get the truth, in fact they have been here amonth and you guys cant get a one on one. go armondo your the best.now go get a real story.
Armondo;
Have you ever written an article where you had an actual quote from anyone about whatever you are talking about? Your stories seem to be made up of rumors and enuendo, not facts. Please let me know where you get those special glasses that let you read between the lines so well!
"What's the worst that can happen Zach gets released and joins the Patriots. OUCH!"...
How about: Zach gets hit hard again and causes permanent brain damage?
To the anonymous guy who wonders if Mando uses quotes: This is the one I read quite clearly in this article from jeffy Ireland -- ``Right now, he's on our roster, so we certainly have plans for him. In terms of tomorrow, the next day or six months down the line, we're still in the process of analyzing who's going to be a part of the future.''
Also, speaking of needing glasses, I believe the guy's name is ARMANDO not Armondo.
Geez, the mentally challenged are buying computers now.
Zach will be cut to make more cap room. The fins will offer Zach a new contract but the Patriots will offer him more money and he'll be off to New England.
As soon as Cam sees Boller play he'll be asking the Ravens brass to come get Trent. We're open for business!
I've already asked Ravens management to trade Ed Reed to the Dolphins for Zach Thomas. I do believe Zach would make a good fullback in my genius offensive schemes, and I don't really see much talent in that Reed fellow.
Hey Armando - It's not a choice between Zach and Trent Green. Ever watch football? They play different positions with very different risk levels.
The odds of Trent Green getting another concussion as a veteran backup are nowhere near as high as Zach Thomas whose job, every play, is to go head-first into a collision. Even if Trent plays the entire season, which player would you say would be most likely suffer a concussion? Think about it.
Arando...love your column...However, have you given any thought to this? Bill has stated you can't win without a very good Q.B. We need Green more, at this point than we need Zack. My thinking is that we need so many different holes filled in the team, Green would give us a better chance of winning a few games more in 08 than than a defense line backer. Additionally, because we need so many changes, Zack might be better "trade bait" giving us maybe a 3rd round pick, or better depending on Irelands ability and another contender needing a line backer? Zack could be an impact player to another team...therefore, we might get 1 or possibly,2 or three picks for him...
I am thinking of becoming a Marlins fan to follow the Tuna as he hauls in New England. I can't take Al Davis anymore. However, when I read this column and the comments, I said to myself,"Oh, oh. Am I going from a crazy old man to children"?
Do you really think that Armando Somebody-o really knows more about building a football team that the Tuna? Oh, oh.
Fry the Big Tuna if he does not KEEP Zach!!!
AN OPEN LETTER TO JEFF DARLINGTON;Since Darlington hasn't answered any questions for 4 weeks in the "Q & A" section I will use this forum to air my grievance. Why have a q&a forum if the guy you have running it doesn't care and/or have time to answer our questions?! "Ask your questions here"? Where?! I know Jeff has a life because he told us so, with a snide comment to a question about why he isn't keeping up on the forum. As if he has a life and we don't. Thanks Jeff, thanks for making us ALL feel like losers. That was very professional of you. I do have a life and a small part of my life is following my beloved Miami Dolphins. I get to spend around a half hour per week reading about them and it is nice to be able to ask questions and find out more about the team. Jason Cole answered all of our questions and was a gentlemen in doing so. So Jeff, if your life is too busy to be bothered by us, the losers, why not tell the paper you can't run the forum. It is obvious that it is too much for you to handle. Maybe you have too much work to do, and that is understandable. So why then are you the one who is in charge? Please tell the paper you have no time so they can remove the section called Q&A. It will be better for everyone concerned. Thank you, Mark in Daytona.
I agree with this article. I really didn't like Ireland comments about Zach. Ireland said in other words that if somebody comes a long better than him (Zach), he'll trade Zach or release him to get that player or get a pay cut check. Zach is already retiring. Why not keep him here for a least back up job? He's a Dolphins no matter if he goes to another team. The same goes to Jason Taylor. Let's keep him here and build this team around them.
Thanks,
Marino
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
I say we keep JT and Zach as mentor's to the youth we draft. They would be very beneficial in helping the younger guys develop for the Dolphins future. Keeping Trent Green is a STUPID decision! Give Beck a chance or trade our #1 for Anderson (Cle.) and their 1st and 2nd round picks IMO.
Any comments?
I couldn't agree with you more Slaghead. Zach deserves a say in this. He is the heart of the Defense when he's on the field.
Huzienga seems to have no respect for the people who are the best examples of being a member of the Dolphins. Shula. Marino. McDuffie. Zach. He has no loyalty, and this Mafia approach to running the team seems very appropriate to the man. Tragic, really, for such a proud franchise, to completely lose touch with what made it great. H. is a baaaaad owner.
Signed,
Trying To Care
Unfortunately for one my favorite Dolphins of all time "THE HUMAN BEARTRAP" as Mad Dog Mandich refers to him as, he is getting to the end of the line in his career. That coupled with his size and the fact thatParcells likes BIG Physical Players, Zach does not fit into their future plans. He is a warrior and that mentality is why he has had the concussions etc. Parcells remembers how Zach was mostly handled by MAWAE in those fierce battles against the JETS and he prefers big linebackers for his scheme nothing against ZACH at all. We'll have to wait on this one my guess they will phase him out by asking him to take major paycut in final year with the Fins.
This sport is a BUSINESS after all! I love Zach, I have 2 Zack Thomas Jerseys and a JT jersey, but we are re-building. I think you are reading too much into Irelands comments. My guess/opinion: They will either restructure his and JT's contract for a lower Cap number, draft a middle linebacker he can mentor for Sprano (Roth is already being mentored by JT). Especially on how to take care of your body during NFL poundings against O-lineman and FB's in the league (i.e.-Hyperbolic chamber) and how to prepare for games in the film room. I believe both Zack and Jason will be back as veteran leaders in the locker room, but I think they will be asked to take a paycut and mentor the youth on the team and teach them how to be as successful as those two have been through all the years. But if not, you have to remember, the NFL is a BUSINESS. My guess 8-8 next year and probably 11-5 the following. We were spoiled too long with playoff appearances with Marino that we were bound to bottom out when Shula left. It was just a matter of time, but I trust the new regime. I never liked Mueller, especially when they traded away Chris Chambers. That was just Freaking STUPID!!!
We know that Trend Green is one hit far from retirement, but perhaps Zach Thomas is under the same situation, but the real question is which role would be playing each guy.
Green is a smart selection because he can work as 3rd QB and tutor for Beck and some other young QB, while ZT is required as starter or he's out of plans. Don't misunderstand me, I love ZT, his leadership and toughness are hard to compare, but under the 3-4 defense, his size and the number of hits that a LB gets week by week, create bigger doubts about him.
Can ZT serve as a backup? Never mind.
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