Thanks DoURant, that's a very optimistic outlook on the CB group. And there is a better than even chance that the group will step up with Nixon and Valentine outside and Hobbs in the slot. Bullard can then be free to backup in the slot or at safety. I think Bullard was a round two selection, so a backup role isn't what Gluten had in mind. But hey, best utilize the talent available. I hope Bullard takes a big step this year.I think the CB's will be just fine. Valentine will pick up where he left off after taking over for Stokes at the end of 2024, and be our new #1 CB. Nixon played better outside than in the slot, after taking that spot when Jaire went down. Hobbs and Bullard can fight it out for the slot reps. My sleeper is I think Hadden will take a big leap, and push Nixon. KC drafted him and threw him in the slot, which makes no sense to me, since he thrived as an outside man CB in college at Tennessee.
I think the CB room will surprise us, in a good way, when all is said and done, as we look back at it after the season is over. I also feel that Gute will try to add a vet to that room before the season is done. There are a few FA guys still out there, and we definitely have some cap $$ available to do that.
Unfortunately, JA became a distraction - not because of anything he did - but because of what he didn't do, which was play. So I wish him well, but it made sense for Gluten to move on.
Off topic a bit - I will be interested to see where JA lands and what his contract looks like. Very possible the Eagles would pay him $16 or $17 mil on a one-year deal. We'll see.