(10-14-2023, 12:07 PM)Caldrac Wrote:

(10-14-2023, 11:53 AM)JagFan81 Wrote: It's going to be a tough decision. I think we all like Allen and think he's probably our best pass rusher. He's had some very up and down stretches over the years but some of that was probably down to the different coaching staff and him getting experience.

I agree with Caldrac above, $16.5m per year is what I'd expect it to be around. That's probably slightly overpaying for him but could easily see him getting that if he hit FA. I want to keep him as I think his best years are ahead of him and I think he'll get better. Not sure if he'll be 'best in the league' level but certainly a big weapon for us. I also want to keep him as I want us to start building some vets and having guys that can instill a culture on rookies and have that respect. 

The only concern with paying Allen is we're going to have to let someone walk at some point. I know we have some big contracts that won't be renewed but just that can't pay everyone situation. We need to be able to bring in rookies that step up and contribute but that would also be true if we pay Lawrence, Ridley etc.

Agreed. We're going to lose somebody important one way or another. Unless Walker flips a light switch and comes on strong starting tomorrow it cements my beliefs even further in keeping Allen.

(10-14-2023, 11:57 AM)JW Wrote: They really need Hamilton back to see if that helps both Allen and Walker.

It would certainly help. They exteneded him already so we're hoping he's at least a long term solution to help bridge the gap we're going to inevitably face like all teams do come free agency losses.

I just want to see Walker find himself defensively as a pass rusher out there. Gives you that sense of security we need moving forward in the event we cannot retain Allen.

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Your absolutely right. You would hope Walker would start to dominate more and have those stand out plays where he wrecks a play. It just isn't happening for him yet and I think we all hope he can become that guy but the drop off behind Allen is quite scary, that's why keeping Allen feels the right move right now.

I think we'll add to the Dline in the draft, maybe some FA depth and I hope Walker doesn't end up like Chaisson.

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