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The 'All-Cut' Team
Posted: Friday February 18, 2000 07:49 AM
A few months ago it appeared that this would be a lean year for free agent talent. But because many teams have been forced to cut high-priced players, things have changed drastically. The most telling story of this free agent season is more than two dozen players have signed new contracts while at least 40 players have been terminated. Bruce Smith was unemployed for all of three days before he signed a $23 million deal with Washington. And he's not the only prime candidate out there. As one head coach said to me, "The cut list is a better looking team than mine is right now." Fact is, among the veteran players who've been released there are the six qualities every coach says he needs to win.
There is talent like perennial all pro guard Randall McDaniel. There is the character of linebacker Lee Woodall. There is the leadership of running back Thurman Thomas. There is the competitive fire of wide receiver Andre Reed. There is the playmaking skill of defensive end Neil Smith. And there is the hunger that comes from having seen what the unemployment line looks like. Take a look at this "all-cut" team and see if you don't agree that this group might be better than some teams. One thing's for certain: They'll play for a lot less money and give a lot more effort than a lot of guys who are feeling more secure.
A team that signs a marquee player this time of year must drop a high-priced veteran -- or even several players -- to fit the new guy in. So look for the "all-cut" team to get even better as we head into spring. Players like Jerry Rice, Bryce Paup and Jumbo Elliott could be on this roster before too long. Pat Kirwan, who spent 12 years in the NFL as a coach, scout and personnel administrator, is an NFL analyst for CNN/Sports Illustrated. The opinions expressed here are those of the writer.
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