Quote:I like both drafts by Caldwell. It's still too early to know for sure about many of them - but it seems we may have as many as 9 long term starters from the past two drafts. (I'd say at least 5 if you're not feeling optimistic) 

 

I actually think he's done well in free agency also.  Beadles is obviously a disappointment, but his contract won't hurt much. Clemons is hot and cold, but seems like a good guy to mentor Branch and Davis. Bryant has helped vs. the run. Watson got hurt right away and might not work out.  Geno Hayes has served a purpose as a placeholder until he can be upgraded. 

 

 It's the unexpected surprises that make me like Caldwells free agency work, however.  

Miller, Marks, and Alan Ball have been better than average/sometimes very good -  and very economical for their production.  I think Caldwell is batting about .500 in free agency and that's not bad. FA is more of a gamble than many seem to realize. 

 

When you factor in a few good depth additions found on the waiver wire (Clay Harbor anyone?) and a few promising UDFA (Hurns, Abry Jones) I really feel confident in our GM's ability to find and acquire talent. 

 

Well said.

 

I think too many people see the cap room and say "it's because the Jaguars don't spend money on free agents". When in reality, it's really because of the lack of return on the 2007-2012 draft classes. You would assume at least a few of the players from those drafts would have signed long terms deal with the team. Nope.

---