MasterStrategist

Yes the "rest" of the WRs, not JuJu. That's a you problem for not understanding. Again, the man just got his market value shown to him....$9m AAV. Is that Wr1 money? You keep avoiding that question, I wonder why? Carry on... brick walls give more than you

It's where they are being targeted...🤔 Not difficult to understand. You are reverting to your typical behavior now...lol, must be right or throw insults. You're a real treat 😋 Let's think really hard on this: 1. Player 1 Avg air target is less than 6 yard 2. Player 2 is greater than 12 yards Wonder whp is who? Wonder if there's any correlation to throwing a short pass, and completing it, vs throwing deep and incompeltions (overthrown, lower % of completion). Gabe avg yards per attempt = 9.0 JuJu= 9.2 Gabes TDs=7 JuJu=3 Bills offense needs a JuJu type for the slot, at 60 targets per year. But he's not a WR1, anymore than Gabe is a #1 WR...different roles in offense. Gabe is actually better in his role than JuJus, I'd contest. Proof will be in the contract Gabe either gets before season starts OR next offseason. Gabe will be paid more than $9m AAV, be fun if we could wager 😁

I don't think it's the same, Kumerow was a bottom roster/ST guy. Harty and Sherfield actually offer some offensive potential, especially Harty if hes healthy....but I know you're not a believer yet. It's OK. Nobody knows yet, but I'm hoping you're wrong

Stating the obvious, but alot of fans have problems understanding that players can "improve". Year 1 to Year 2, Year 2 to 3, etc. It's not linear growth, and past comparisons or LYs production gets stuck in their minds. Failing to see that most all NFL teams are relying/going through the same thing...at various positions. Shakir looked good, from what I saw and noted. He and Cook were 2 of the most improved players on offense. Defensively, Settle looks alot quicker. From how they are mixing up looks on DL, Groot as the 3T and Floyd at DE during obvious passing downs will cause alot of teams headaches. Especially when Von returns on the other side

Oh wow, same thing I said the other day...(that I witnessed at camp too)...that @BADOLBILZjumped all over. Its clear to at least a few that Gabe is looking improved...have some hope, its only going to help we have what appears to be a reliable middle of the field target (Kincaid) and better IOL

Dude you honestly want to compare passer rating, with a SLOT wr versus a DOWNFIELD wr. You are now cherry picking stats. Bottom line, go argue JuJu is a "WR1" until you're blue in the face...I don't care. But he's no longer a prolific WR, even being as young/experienced as he is....he was ONLY able to attract a very modest 3 yr 26M deal this offseason. Again, if there was a single GM in the NFL that views JuJu as a Wr1, there would have been a much higher contract offered / JuJu wouldn't have accepted such a low-ball #. I don't care about JuJu, I care about the point you're trying to make (unsuccessfully)...that we NEED two WR1 (or passing weapons) to be on-par with past SB teams. Those teams weren't about 1 factor, they also had: 1. Great or Very good OL and at least 1 elite def line player 2. 3 consistent WR/TE passing targets 3. Defenses that could apply pressure on opposing QBs Not simple correlation, like you're trying to point out. Either way, stay with your story. I'll stick with mine...which has been about improving IOL and finding a consistent slot option (doesn't need to be a #2 target eater in our offense). Teams tried to bring pressure/cover 1 or cover 0 looks, and/or funneled coverage to make Josh go 1-1 to middle of the field/slot targets. We had absolutely NOBODY in that role, who could be a reliable target for Josh. Knox was also forced to be kept in on protection too often, because our OL struggled or due to the blitz looks. Only time we had success was moving Diggs inside. Dont want to believe me, how about go listen to Beane's post season/offseason pressures. Top that with Beanes actions/top investments: 1. 2 slot WRs: Harty and Sherfield 2. 1st round pick: SLOT 3. IOL additions It was clear as day to anyone who understands what this offense wants to emphasize. It's mission critical to have a capable player in the slot. Beane failed LY, he thought he was getting solid guy in Crowder (but he got hurt). This year, he not only invested FA $s but also our top draft pick. If WR2 was so important to him, he would have found a way to get Dhop or someone else. Nobody thought we'd land Von last offseason, but that was 2021's biggest weakness (pressuring and ultimately sacking the QB).. so Beane focused on it.

Bernard, at least stature-wise, reminds me of TJ Edwards. Size isn't everything, *insert joke here*, but Bernard's instincts, quickness to read/react and ability to use his hands to shed blocks...was a big plus from Baylor scouts. He fits the athletic measurables, undersized guys like him usually take a year or so of NFL training, to see any potential. I don't think LY was a good indicator at all, and still think Dodson has the leg up. Worse case, we find a sub package role or he's a S/T replacement for Big Red

I know what he was saying....you must have missed my point and what other reporters have noticed about Gabe. It's the opposite of what you're saying ... Gabe actually is standing out and looks quicker/lighter/improved. Yes it's TC but at least acknowledge more than 1 report....plenty of reports out there saying what I just stated (and noticed in person at practice)

Yeah and Jujus 9.2 yards per target VS Gabe at 9.0 Juju: 101 targets and 933 yards and 3 Tds Gabe: 93 targets and 836 yards and 7 Tds Adjust Gabes stats, based on 101 targets and we get 909 yards. Obviously these guys play different roles in their offense, but JuJu was targeted on short/quick passes (ie a slot role). He's nowhere near a #1, just a target hog in that offense LY. Yet somehow JuJu finishes #74 in the league with just 3 Tds. Dude isn't a #1 receiver and no where close to it, since his days with Steelers. He also didn't get paid like it by NE... More stats: his last 8 games, including Playoffs. 42 targets, 334 yards, 1 TD. Equates to 89 targets, 709 yards, and 2 Tds across 17 games.. What's my point?: 1. He was not a #1 LY, just bc he got targets. He basically was single coverage every play, and avg 5.5 air yards per reception. Translation - he got a million short passes and had space to operate in that offense. 2. He was getting phased out during the stretch run/played a complimentary role especially in playoffs 3. AAV his new deal, after just putting up his best statistical year in recent time...a whopping $9m. That's gonna be less than Gabe wil get, and basically depicts what JuJu is...a #3/slot role guy. GMs aren't agreeing with your take, otherwise JuJu would have received more on the open market...right?

This could be a post from 2 months ago, and it would still be wild speculation/best guess. Need to wait for the pads to go on. About the only thing you can gage now is ability to put defense in the right calls, positioning/responsibilities, pass coverage drops (which we know we have more small/athletic types), and leadership/command. Ultimately I think the job will be Dodson's. He'll check more boxes, IMO, to handle early downs and 3rd downs. But I wouldn't be surprised, and actually looking forward to seeing, if Coach has more sub-packages this year (ie: Bernard or Dorian, or more dime with Rapp) on obvious passing downs.

Using JuJu is a horrible example, just my opinion. 1. Who cares about his 1400 yard season, years ago. Why just to prove he's talented? 2. Most important...he was practically non-existent part of their offense in the last 6-7 games (including playoffs, where he disappeared) Chiefs were good bc they were "diverse" with their offense, and had multiple guys who were reliable. Your original point about having 2 "top tier" weapons & correlation to SB apprarances, isnt bad. But I'd not bucket last years KC team there (regardless of JuJu season stats). They won games in the playoffs, and SB, by getting all their weapons involved and not letting Pat get sacked in the SB. Your original point, you should also consider #3 target in those offenses too (maybe you have). But they had 3 consistent/reliable guys. To me, having 3 mostly reliable passing weapons is more important. On any given play, Josh likely gets to 3-4 reads before pressure breaks down....especially in our style of offense VS defenses that have given us problems. Counting on Kincaid to play a critical role, but he doesn't need to become our #2 target guy...I think you said this in an earlier post...agree with you that Davis should see his targets come down and we become a more balanced offense (intermediate and downfield passing)

Analyzing catch rate in practice lol...thats a new one. At least the day I was at camp, Gabe had Tre turned around and beat him on back to back 1-1 reps. Although Tre still doesn't look the same to me...just a step behind his all-pro days, hopefully I'm wrong on that. All that to say, I think the biggest observations about Gabe so far: 1. he looks noticably quicker/faster coming out of breaks and 2. leaner build (likely helping with previous), appears to be carrying less weight Hopefully translates to staying healthy/avoiding the recurring ankle injuries. I definitely think he "bulked" too much last offseason. Obviously he's never been a twitchy type receiver, but similar to James Cook...both guys caught my attention for looking faster this year (I'd add Shakir to that list too).

I think looking at outside WRs at this time of camp, is more an indictment on players WR7-Wr13. I could be wrong, but we all knew Shorter was going to be a major WIP, and S/T play right now is less contact/not a great indicator until full pads and contact start. Your last statement is spot on. Improved OL play, hopefully, should allow Knox to get more involved as well. If an NFL team can find 3 consistent weapons in the pass game, they have a great chance to be elite. We're trending that way right now, at least in much better position than LY. Harty and Sherfield are getting moved all around, at least the day I was at camp. Nobody we're looking at off the streets right now, is making this WR room...barring an injury. Perhaps P/S, but I've liked how Coulter looks and Keesawn. Isabella maybe, if he proves to be a good option in the return game.

He's been an average 2, at least, already. Team has lacked a "consistent" 3rd pass catching option, LY specifically. Gabe isn't Stefon. But he's a good boundary receiver in our offense, along with being one of our best blocking receivers. Ask any WR coach and that's an important trait. We need Kincaid, or the 3-headed slot trio to give us more than LY. Not like we were that bad/far off anyhow, we're talking about fine tuning a great offense into an elite group (which need better oline play as well). Seems like we have: 1. A healthy/lighter/slightly quicker Gabe 2. Consistent 3rd option- Kincaid so far 3. Hopefully better IOL and RT play 4. More diverse offense/improved Dprsey through experience I'm optimistic, but it's not like Gabe has to be a #3 target in this offense. We actually just need a consistent slot guy.

Usually they start practice with a "half speed" team offense vs defense. Scripted plays/2 min drill. Seems they had Torrence starting for that segment. Then individual drills, then team session again at full speed (seems Bates started then). Just to help explain, otherwise it would seem Cover1 was contradicting themselves

Parking/Shuttle: I parked at Sutherland, arrived at 8:15. Line was already fairly long, and we got on the 5th or 6th bus. Got to practice by approx 9am Autographs: same boat, my son was hoping too but it's extremely difficult. Ask about "mafia tix" when you bump into ppl working there, there is a special area behind the bleachers (these tix are randomly handed out, from what I was told). Otherwise, lining up along the fences is best chance, sometimes players will stop over (far sideline OR field behind bleachers). VIP area is closest, and best chsnce for autographs, as you said. Bills store: yes, they have 2 stores setup. One right as you enter and second one is along the end zone (right side). Hat options, I didn't look specifically but selection was just OK for everything else. Obviosily much better at 1 Bills Drive store (we actually stopped there on way home) Kids area: yes, they have several games/activities set up. Face paint/tattoo Station, and the Billy Buffalo meet opportunity is cool for kids. Get in line immediately when you arrive for that, best chance for a pic Have fun!

IF Damar is back to his old self, not sure why some ppl here think he won't make the team. He'd be our 4th safety. That's a big if, given everything that's occurred in the past 7-8 months. Mentally, you just never know with anyone. That's not a prediction or slight, just being honest with the situation. He was never known for his athletic prowess at Pitt, just instinctive/aggressive/always around the ball, and a great leader. That's a valuable player, as a 3rd-4th safety in the NFL, who is still young and ability to improve with more experience into a fringe starter.

Most likely landing spots: any team that isn't paying top-$ for a QB, or will be in the next 2-3 seasons. With QB salaries getting higher and higher (not just $s but % of salary cap), just makes sense that something has to give...right now, that's running back. To me, Colts are in a perfect position to pay a top-emd RB salary. Just like SF, Tennessee. With a rookie QB, they have that window of luxury per say. Richardson is a different breed of course, he doesn't need an elite RB but that team will be difficult to defend if they keep pieces together for a few years.

100% agree. Going into the offseason, this was my offensive focus to improve (in this order) 1. OL 2. Slot - finding a consistent "3rd" target for Josh 3. Redzone offense 4. Better playcalling/integrating all our weapons To your last sentence, I'd put Kincaid's success near top of list (just in terms of potential impact it could have). I think IOL and Spencer Brown were "tied" on my list, I just have faith he can take the next step, at least be a serviceable RT. We all knew Saffold and Bates, are what they are. Bates is a great backup type/OK starter, his versatility is his best asset. Picking up Shell was a good, break-glass move for this season. He's the equivalent to Bates, IMO, in terms of starter level quality play (but at RT). Otherwise, RT becomes 1st-2nd pick next year. I like what Beane did at OL, even if it means we need to have some "faith/hope" that Brown develops his game. Likewise at skill positions, we don't need Kincaid to be a game breaker but if he's a reliable 3rd option, that is perfect...it comes down to Dorsey finding ways to get mismatches week to week.

Ha, yes....good old cover 2. Re: Cam, I always thought he'd be a better nickle corner, than boundary or even safety. He lacks speed, but has enough quicks and aggression to be a capable guy there. Either way, that pass and catch was a thing of beauty. My 1st training camp in 8+ years, difficult to make the trip from Pittsburgh (season tix is enough). But some thoughts: 1. Gabe:looks alot quicker/lighter to me this year. He had some good 1-1s vs Tre. Out breaking and in-breaking routes, which we didn't get enough of LY 2. Shakir/Cook: talk about a 2nd offseason making a difference, both these guys look poised to make some noise. Both quicker, maybe less thinking, just overall more comfortable....especially James. I like Damien, but Cook looks ready to make a big step. Shakir has some good players behind him, in Harty and Sherfield, which might make for interesting rotation. All these WRs have positional flex, so it will make life tough for defenses to key in on any tendencies. 3. Kincaid: this guy understands "leverage"/positioning extremely well for a rookie. His play looked to support the hype, only 1 day, but he's got high potential in this offense. Going to be difficult for defenses to bracket/double him, with Diggs and others. He'll get his 1-1 matchups and Josh should be looking there alot. 4. OL/DL/LB: difficult to fully evaluate w/o pads, will be eager to read up on other takes once pads come on. 1 player to mention, Tim Settle, his quickness looks to have returned. That calf injury really held him back LY, imo. 5. PR/KR: Harty definitely looks explosive as a PR, Shakir can be in the mix too. Im less concerned about KR, given new rules. But wouldnt be suprised to see some rotation there as the season goes on, depending on gameday roster decisions. 6. Tre: maybe I was there for a bad day to evaluate him. But he still doesn't look to have regained that elite short area quickness/twitch. Hope I'm wrong. He still looked good, just not all-pro Tre White. 7. Cb2: competition for the starter makes for nice problem to have. Still not sure how Benford slid. I'm a Pitt guy, so I know Danes limitations as well as any. I can't see how he wins the CB2 role, but he's s great backup/luxury....gonna be a dogfight between Elam and Benford, both these guys just "stick" to the WRs better, Benford has more instinctive play/scrappy. 8. Von: nice to see him doing rehab on the side. 1-legged bag drills while catching medicine balls. Unreal how fast he's recovering 9. Coach: dressed head to toe in all black today...he must love that heat! Funny that I saw the local reporting, here in Steeler country, saying Tomlin did same today. Glutton for punishment 10. SJF: finally, I have to say how great the staff/setup is at SJF. All around great experience. Lots more fans than last time I could make it, 😀...but my 5 yr old son had a memorable time

Agree. With Diggs, you take the occasional bad with the good. Is he a "perfect" teammate? Definitely not. But he contributes alot more good, than bad. Not only his play, but he's voted as a captain for a reason and he demands/brings the level of play up of his teammates. These are the types of leaders we can afford, when you have balanced personalities also as leaders (and some less critical/emotional guys like Josh) and McD coaching. Every team needs some "fire", just finding the right balance. And this isn't directed at you, as I agreed with your comments and good place to put this. So much speculation and alot of wasted energy by fans/media. Month ago, it was everyone paranoid about Dorsey/playcalls, some posters insisting they had "sources" that Diggs' issue was Ken. Who knows for certain, and it doesn't matter if we do. Diggs handled today's presser nearly perfectly, IMO, and did his due diligence. Now time to move on.

Alot of people to keep quiet/tax records/etc. The NFL would come down hard on any team "cheating the cap", wouldn't surprise me if it included titles/season revoked, future drafts or cap room penalized, etc. Too many risks and we'd have the next Dan Snyder on our hands.

Simplistic way of looking at what was said/cherry picking words. McD was specifically asked if he had any concerns, and said he's concerned anytime "any player" misses practice. It was coach speak 101, I guess that went over your head.

Topic was Diggs explaining, answering questions about the situation. You took this to the level of placing blame on Coach, again why is it his fault you reacted the way you did?

Lol yes. Seeking drama when nothing is there. Sorry to categorize you, but not sure why you're still talking about something that's been a non-issue since the start. Heaven forbid Coach and Diggs have a disagreement and Coach voices concern. Start worrying when said player skips training camp, misses meaningful time. Forget when that happened here?