The Patriot Way

The New England Patriots have been the NFL’s most successful franchise in the 21^st century. In the 13 seasons since Head Coach Bill Belichick took the reins in 2000, the Patriots have had 12 winning seasons, made 10 playoff appearances, won 10 division titles, played in 7 AFC Championship Games, won 5 AFC Championships, and won 3 Super Bowls. Absolute dominance in their trade….

What Is “The Patriot Way”?

Over the years, the term, “The Patriot Way” has been injected into the sports lexicon. Patriots personnel and media alike attribute their way of doing business as the key to the team’s long term success. The organization has presented The Patriot Way as a cold, efficient, no-nonsense dedication to achieving and winning. They position themselves as an organization of high character individuals with limited tolerance for off-the-field issues and distractions. This…is The Patriot Way.

I have a different take on The Patriot Way. The Patriot Way is a clean shaven, coat-and-tie, modern version of the Commitment to Excellence – The Oakland Raiders Way…the late Raiders owner Al Davis' way. It is the way known for four decades by the motto, “Just Win, Baby!” And the Patriots have transposed it into their blueprint in the modern game with remarkable seamlessness.

The Raider Way

For you younger readers, understand that prior to 2003, the Raiders were the model of achievement in professional sports, not the laughing stock they became in the last 10 years as Davis aged, became excessively erratic (even by his eccentric standards), and the club was plagued by drafting and coaching fiascoes. They were the villains of the NFL. Fans either loved or hated them, but everyone respected them. More years than not, opponents feared them.

The Raiders had a reputation for taking big risks. They signed other teams’ castaways and rejects that Davis thought had high-level football ability remaining in their careers. The Raiders gambled on individuals with questionable character issues. They were renegades on the field: some say “rough”; some say “dirty”. Most would agree they were intimidating. 

The blueprint of The Patriot Way! 1

The South End of a Northbound Bull

Unlike the Raiders, who were openly frowned upon by the mainstream but were completely transparent in how they won, the Patriots have presented a corporate America-like face. They have been admired by the media and the critics. Behind the scenes, it is clear to me that they harbor surly and unsavory people and practices. What you see when the camera lights are on is not necessarily a reflection of what happens behind the scenes. 

The Patriot Way, Spygate – In 2007, former New York Jets Head Coach Eric Mangini reported to the NFL that Bill Belichick instructed his film crew to videotape the defensive signals of his division opponents for years, going back to The Hoodie’s arrival in 2000. Presumably, the Patriots would study them and attempt to use the information gathered in the return match. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell was reportedly made aware of this practice the year before and instructed Belichick to stop. 

How did Mangini catch the Pats? Mangini was an assistant on Belichick’s staff before earning the top coaching spot with the Jets. And where did Belichick try to implement this tactic? In a Week 1 game against Mangini’s Jets. REALLY?!?!? Talk about trying to hide in plain sight…!

The scandal became known as Spygate and fueled a host of rumors and innuendo about other possible misbehavior. The Boston Globe alleged that the Patriots videotaped the walkthrough of the St. Louis Rams prior to Super Bowl XXXVI in New Orleans, the Patriots first Super Bowl win. The allegation was never proven and the Globe retracted its claim during the 2008 offseason. But the damage was done.

The Patriots were docked a first round draft pick and both the team and The Hoodie were fined a total of $750,000. Just the cost to do business…The Patriot Way! The Patriots have lost in both of their Super Bowl appearances since Spygate.

The Patriot Way! 2

The Patriot Way, Randy Moss – The Patriots acquired future Hall of Fame wide receiver Randy Moss from the Oakland Raiders (that’s ironic) prior to the 2007 season. Let me be crystal clear: there is no question…ZERO...about the talent Moss brought to the team. There is also no question that controversy and chaos follow Moss everywhere he goes.

Moss would go on to set a single season record for touchdown receptions, helping the Patriots to the only 16-0 regular season record in NFL history, en route to winning the AFC Championship. Three years later, in 2010, Moss would publicly throw the Patriots under the bus, demanding a contract extension. Moss was soon traded back to the team that drafted him, the Minnesota Vikings, implying that Moss’ antics weren’t in line with “The Patriot Way”. The Vikings would soon release Moss, with soon-to-be-fired Vikings Head Coach Brad Childress saying Moss was a “programmatic non-fit”. Moss reportedly undermined Childress with the last straw being embarrassing, rude behavior by Moss at a catered team event. 

Not bringing in off field distractions…”The Patriot Way”! Unless, of course, that player can help your offense break records and reach a Super Bowl…. 

Apparently "The Patriot Way" includes pulling the rug from under their franchise quarterback (Tom Brady, right). How many times have the Pats unceremoniously cut his favorite targets (Randy Moss, left) without warning? 3

The Patriot Way, Albert Haynesworth – Defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth was released by the Washington Redskins. In 2009, Haynesworth, a two time All-Pro, signed a $100 million free agent contract with the Redskins and then everything went to hell in D.C.. Haynesworth did not like the 3-4 defensive scheme that the Skins were transitioning toward (which would have rubbed out Haynesworth’s statistical contributions). He constantly butted heads with Redskins coach Mike Shanahan in 2010, failing a conditioning test in training camp and eventually being suspended for conduct detrimental to the team.

The Patriots brand of vulture capitalism surfaced, trading a fifth round pick for Haynesworth, a physical beast, just before the start of the 2011 season. The Pats had enough of Haynesworth, the last straw being a sideline argument with assistant coach Pepper Johnson during a game,  and released him late in the regular season. Haynesworth has not played a game since 2011. 

Acquiring disruptive players who are bad teammates is not “The Patriot Way”…unless you can acquire that guy for peanuts and he has the potential to blow up the middle of your opponent’s offensive line.

The Patriot Way! 4

The Patriot Way, Chad Ochocinco – Prior to the start of the 2011 season, the Patriots acquired perennial Pro Bowl wide receiver Chad Ochocinco from the Cincinnati Bengals for a pair of low round draft picks. Ochocinco was coming off of a relatively productive season with the Bengals, considering his age, the two games he missed due to injury, and the absolute ineptitude of the Bengals in the 2010 season. Ochocinco’s resume is a borderline Hall of Fame resume. His reputation is that of a “look at me” showman. Certainly not consistent with The Patriot Way!

In all fairness to Ocho, he kept quiet during the 2011 run to the Super Bowl by New England. Unfortunately, he was quiet off the field and on it, only starting three games and catching 15 passes during the regular season. Reportedly, Ochocinco had trouble catching on to the offensive system. The Pats would lose Super Bowl XLVI to the New York Giants and Ochocinco soon lost his job, being cut shortly after the season. 

Signing flash-in-the-pan showmen is not The Patriot Way! Signing such a player with the understanding he’d better tone it down is. Even when the former class clown transitions to the teacher’s pet, if he doesn’t shred defenses on the field, he is rewarded with a pink slip. The Patriot Way!

Ochocinco (left): I'm all on board with The Patriot Way! Brady (right): Don't get too comfortable on board.

5

The Patriot Way, Aaron Hernandez – The embodiment of The Patriot Way is found in former tight end Aaron Hernandez. Hernandez was an eye catching, standout talent at the University of Florida. The red flags of behavioral issues and alleged gang affiliations caught so many eyes that this early round talent fell to the fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. Getting blockbuster talent on the cheap – The Patriot Way! 

The Pats took a flyer on Hernandez and it paid off on the field in a big way.  In Hernandez’s Pro Bowl season of 2011, he and fellow tight end Rob Gronkowski, with their size, speed, and hands, were too much for opposing defenses to handle, especially with future Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady calling the signals. The Patriots reached Super Bowl XLVI, losing to the New York Giants. Hernandez was rewarded with a lucrative contract extension worth nearly $40 million with a record (for a tight end) $13 million signing bonus.

On June 26, 2013 Hernandez was arrested and charged with first degree murder in the shooting death of 27-year-old Odin Lloyd. The Patriots released Hernandez that morning. Signing gangbangers…if they can help you get to the Super Bowl…it’s “The Patriot Way”!

The Patriot Way! 6

JUST ANOTHER TEAM

Success can reveal the character of an organization. It can also help cover up or enable people to overlook some of its less desirable attributes. The Patriots have been a model of efficiency on the field. However, they are not to be heralded as superheroes hanging out in The Hall of Justice. They are just another championship caliber organization in the industry of American sports. The Patriot Way is just that – their way, nothing more.

Don't forget to vote in the fan polls!

To advertise with The Daily Hat Trick, or to submit a guest column, please contact the editor at eric@thedailyhattrick.info.

The Daily Hat Trick is sponsored by Sports N Stuff. For great deals on jerseys, shirts, cologne, and other guy stuff, visit http://www.sportsnstuff.biz/.

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Ladies of the Nightcourt

Most Daily Hat Trick Chick Pics are safe for work but visually appealing pictures of (often) scantily clad (usually) young women. Today's subject is a pretty woman, but you won't see much skin. Why is she in today's Chick Pic? Power is sexy!

Former NFL wide receiver Chad Johnson was in court this morning for a probation violation stemming from a domestic violence charge last summer. Johnson's attorney worked out a plea deal that included no jail time. Just before the judge opened the bird cage to Johnson's freedom, Johnson patted his attorney, Adam Swickle on the backside as Judge Kathleen McHugh was giving praise to Swickle for representing Johnson well. McHugh promptly rejected the former Chad Ochocinco's plea deal after the playful pat and subsequently sentenced the former Pro Bowler to 30 days in the county jail.

Blondes have more fun, right? 1

She didn't appear to be having fun this morning. 2

 

If I were Ocho, I'd have requested a private session in her chambers. 3

That's a more playful look. 4

Happy, guys? You got a little skin. I don't think it's really Judge Katie's, though. 5

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Retweet of the Day - August 15, 2012

There are tons of trouble to go around the world of sports. No single individual has had more trouble than NFL wide receiver Chad Johnson. Johnson was arrested following a domestic dispute with his wife, Basketball Wives star Evelyn Lozada, over the weekend. The following day, he was released by the Miami Dolphins. Yesterday, Lozada filed for divorce from Johnson after just six weeks of marriage. Talk about a reverse hat trick!

Of course, the Boston Red Sox had their share of drama. Yesterday, it was reported that several players met with management to complain about Manager Bobby Valentine, presumably to try to have him fired. The Red Sox are in fourth place in the American League East and 6.5 games back in the Wild Card race. It is safe to say that these aren't good times in Boston.

That leads us to today's retweet, by April (‏@April_Mc_13):

"+1 RT @TBOTim: The only way Chad Johnson could be more unpopular is if he became the Red Sox manager."

They'd love him at Fenway.

Image from www.morethan-stats.com

Retweet of the Day - August 14, 2012

In the wake of former Pro Bowl wide receiver Chad Johnson's release by the Miami Dolphins, speculation has run rampant that the New York Jets may be interested in signing Johnson. The Jets would certainly be a logical fit. They are a team with a history of taking on trouble but talented players and they are badly in need of playmaking wide receivers behind primary receiver Santonio Holmes.

Johnson was released by the Dolphins following an arrest related to a domestic dispute with his wife. Supposedly, Johnson was confronted over a receipt from a box of condoms. That leads us to today's retweet, by Jerry Thornton (@jerrythornton1), in his second Retweet of the Day on the Hat Trick. Two years ago, the Jets advanced cornerback Antonio Cromartie close to a half million dollars on his 2010 salary to help him get caught up on his child support payments. Cromartie has ten children by eight women, including two with his wife, across six states. Cue Jerry:

"Forget it. Jets don't sign guys who use condoms RT @ProFootballTalk: "Remote" chance Jets pursue Chad Johnson http://wp.me/p14QSB-4AUT"



Terricka Cromartie looks great for a woman with two children. Cromartie looks great for a guy with ten! TEN! 

Image from www.dailymail.co.uk

Uh Oh Ocho!

Wide receiver Chad Johnson (the football player formerly known as Chad Ochocinco) was released on Sunday by the Miami Dolphins following a domestic violence arrest over the weekend. Johnson's new wife and "Basketball Wives" star, the former Miss Evelyn Lozada, allegedly confronted Johnson regarding a receipt for a box of condoms, according to The Jim Rome Show.

Lozada, according to police, had a three inch laceration on her forehead. She said that Johnson head butted her; Johnson claimed that she head butted him. Was Johnson tempted to scratch the five week itch? Clearly there are troubles in paradise. 

Regardless, Johnson's wife is the topic of today's chick pic. While the situation is unfortunate, her visual is not.

"You lookin' at me?" Uhh..yeah-uh! 1

She never had butterflies in her stomach, but.... 2

Ever notice how some women just seduce the camera? 3

4

My biggest regret is that I'll never get to see the "Ev and Ocho" show, cancelled by VH1 since the incident.  5

Chad, I need to introduce you to a special, recurring Hat Trick guest. 6 

What I wouldn't give to have an interview with this guy. 7

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Witnessing Greatness – Wide Receivers

The Daily Hat Trick has run two prior pieces on the prospects of a few active NFL players of being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio after their careers end. One piece described the prospects of several quarterbacks. Another looked into active NFL running backs. Today, we look at at active NFL wide receivers and their chances of induction in Canton.

(Note: statistics are as of the conclusion of Week 6 of the 2011 NFL season unless otherwise noted)

SLAM DUNK

Terrell Owens, free agent – Owens is currently without a team as he is recovering from offseason knee surgery, though, by his own estimates, he expects to be in playing condition within a few weeks. I have little doubt that someone will sign him once he is cleared to play, as there are several teams badly in need of a receiver.

If he picks up at a level anywhere near where he left off last year, with nearly 1,000 yards and 9 touchdowns receiving (at age 37), his new team will be likely getting a great value. Excluding Jerry Rice, Owens, statistically, is the best receiver ever to play the game, owning, or nearly owning, every career receiving record. Owens is second in NFL history to Rice in receiving touchdowns and receiving yards, and is the NFL’s sixth all time leading receiver, with 1,078 catches. T.O., if he plays for at least half of the 2011 season, would likely surpass the league’s current #3 all-time receiver, Marvin Harrison (1,102 receptions, passed by Tony Gonzalez last Sunday). There are fewer easier “yes” votes for the Hall of Fame that will come up than the vote on Owens.

For all of the controversy that surrounded Owens and his mouth, he is one of a select few who as always walked the walk after talking the talk. The last two seasons, he has not done much talking either, but he is still walking. In the twilight of his career, Owens has looked like a true veteran leader. With a likely price tag of less than $2 million, Owens is in a position to deliver a high reward with minimal risk on one of his final stops on the way to Canton, Ohio.

He always made time for the fans. 1

Randy Moss, retired (2011) – While Moss, technically, announced his retirement shortly before the start of the regular season, I am not buying it. Several media outlets reported that Moss and his agent were shopping for a team with an ideal situation for Moss. For that reason, for the purposes of this article, I am going to treat Moss as an active player.

That said, this is another extremely easy “yes” vote for the Hall of Fame committee. Moss may not have always been the perfect teammate and, based on some accounts, may not have been a good guy. Fortunately, the guidelines for induction to the Hall as a player dictate that those factors are irrelevant. Induction is based solely on play.

Excluding Jerry Rice, only recent retiree Marvin Harrison and 16 year veteran Terrell Owens are in Moss’ class of wide receivers. Moss has only played in 13 NFL seasons, yet, except for Harrison, Owens and Rice, his resume dwarfs all other wide receivers. Moss is tied with Owens for #2 all-time in receiving touchdowns, is the NFL’s 9th all time leading receiver (954 receptions), and is fifth, all-time, for receiving yards. Moss’ height, freakish speed, and leaping ability made him almost unstoppable in his younger years and have kept him in the discussion as a big playmaker in the twilight of his career.

If you have a problem with Moss, It think this would be his response. Think he's a jerk? Maybe he is. You can be a jerk when you can back it up. 2

ON TRACK

Hines Ward, Pittsburgh Steelers - My gut feeling tells me that if Hines Ward stopped playing football today, there would be a bronze bust in Canton in his future. Ward is the NFL's eighth all-time leading receiver, with 980 receptions after last Sunday. He has been to four Pro Bowls, is a three time AFC champion (2005, 2008, and 2010) and is a two-time Super Bowl champion (Super Bowls XL and XLIII). Ward had a string of nine consecutive seasons with 69 or more receptions (2001-2009). He is bar none, the most feared downfield blocking wide receiver in the game, if not in NFL history.

Ward could help the cause of his future candidacy by staying healthy and padding his stats for a few more seasons. Another Super Bowl ring would not hurt his cause either. While I personally believe that Ward's induction is inevitable, he has fewer receiving yards (19th all-time) than several players, such as Henry Ellard (9th all-time), Irving Fryar (13th all-time), and Jimmy Smith (16th all-time), who I think will never become Hall of Fame finalists, let alone inductees. His shortcoming on yardage could preclude Ward from being inducted on the first ballot. Crossing the 100 career receiving touchdown threshold would boost his first ballot prospects. Ward currently has 85.

If were are a defender, would you get in his way? 3

Reggie Wayne, Indianapolis Colts - While Wayne is a player whose Hall of Fame candidacy is boosted significantly by his post season contributions, his regular season resume, by itself, would warrant Hall of Fame consideration if he retired today. Wayne is currently riding a string of five consecutive Pro Bowl appearances. He was named an Associated Press First Team All Pro last season, for the first time in his career.

Wayne has been Steady Eddie in the regular season and has been a vital part of the Colts nine year run of regular season dominance between 2002 and 2010. Wayne currently has seven consecutive 1,000 yard seasons, dating back to 2004. He also currently has a streak of eight consecutive seasons of 68 or more receptions, including three seasons with 100 or more receptions. After a 3 reception performance against New Orleans last Sunday, in all likelihood, Wayne will tie or pass Steve Largent and become one of the NFL's 20 all-time leading receivers during this Sunday's game against the Tennessee Titans, needing two more receptions to do so.

While Wayne's regular season achievements are exemplary, I think that his performances in the playoffs are what will separate him from peers with comparable regular reason resumes when he is considered for the Hall of Fame, six years after his retirement. Wayne played a vital role in leading the Colts to three AFC Championship Games (2003, 2006, 2010), two AFC Championships (2006, 2010), and a Super Bowl Championship (XLI). Wayne has played in 17 playoff games, equivalent to more than an entire regular season. When the stakes are highest, Wayne put up the numbers, with 83 receptions for 9 touchdowns and over 1,000 career post season receiving yards.

The only possible hold ups to Wayne's induction are fate and Father Time. Wayne played the first eight years of his career alongside future Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison, who caught passes that certainly would have been thrown to Wayne. Wayne also did not start all 16 games in the regular season until 2003, when he turned 25. These two factors have applied downward pressure to Wayne's regular season yardage and touchdown totals.

Imagine how many more catches Wayne (right) would have had if he had not been in the shadow of future Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison (left). 4

Andre Johnson, Houston Texans - In the opinion of many pundits, Johnson is the best receiver in the NFL today. Johnson is a tall, strong, dominating receiver who, at many times, gives the appearance that he cannot be covered by mere mortals. In his ninth season, Johnson has never had fewer than 60 receptions in any season, in spite of missing three or more games in three different seasons. A five time Pro Bowler and two time member of the AP First All-Pro Team and averaging 80 yards per game for his career, Johnson simply needs to remain relatively healthy and continue his pattern of dominance for at least three more seasons. That should pave his road to Canton when his career is over.

Double coverage doesn't help much more. 5

POSSIBLE BRIDESMAIDS

Derrick Mason, Houston Texans - Consistency and longevity have their rewards. When Mason retires, barring injury, he will be one of the NFL's 10 all-time leading receivers. He is currently #11 all-time, 11 receptions behind Andre Reed. Derrick Mason has been in the NFL for so long that he is the last active player who was drafted by the Houston Oilers, in 1997.*

However, longevity with limited exceptional play makes for a difficult case for the Hall of Fame. Mason has only been to two Pro Bowls and one AP First All-Pro team. The All-Pro honor was earned largely due to his contributions as a return man.

While Mason has an active streak of 11 consecutive seasons with 60 or more receptions and eight seasons with 1,000 or more receiving yards, Mason only has one season in which he eclipsed the 1,200 yard plateau and only five seasons with 80 or more receptions. Being very good, but not dominant, for a long time might not be enough for Mason to be honored as one of the all time greats.

The last of the Houston Oilers 6

Chad Ochocinco, New England Patriots - The notion that a six time Pro Bowler and two time AP First Team All-Pro at a skill position like wide receiver may be on the bubble for a Hall of Fame induction would have been absolutely laughable 20 years ago. In the modern game, however, with modern rules that favor quarterbacks and wide receivers, Ochocinco could find himself on the Hall of Fame borderline if, in fact, his career is in decline at age 33, as his statistics would indicate.

While among the NFL's top 30 all time leaders in receiving and receiving yards, Ochocinco, with only nine catches in six games this season, will likely finish this season only having had one 1,000 yard season and one Pro Bowl appearance in the past four years. This would indicate decline.

Ochocinco, in only in the 11th year of his career, in an era in which great wide receivers, like Terrell Owens, Randy Moss, and Hines Ward, will likely retire after 15-20 years of service. For all of his years of being among the best in the game at his position, Ochocinco's possible lack of longevity could be a roadblock on his way to Canton.

Ochocinco was solid gold earlier in his career. 7

Steve Smith, Carolina Panthers - Similarly to Ochocinco, Steve Smith had a relatively short run of high level dominance. With four Pro Bowls and two First Team All-Pro awards under his belt, one would think that Smith's career was down a road paved directly to Canton.  The problem for Smith, like Ochocinco, is that he may be slowing down. In addition, Smith has always been very good, but never dominated over a consistent, sustained period of time.

Smith only has two seasons in which he has recorded more than 1,200 receiving yards, though he does have a total of six seasons with 982 or more receiving yards, including five in a row between 2005 and 2009. Smith went from a Herculean 1,421 yards, to 982 yards, to a paltry 554 yards receiving in 2008, 2009, and 2010, respectively. This would indicate a slow down at age 32. However, the arrival of future Rookie of the Year quarterback Cam Newton in Carolina seems to have rejuvenated Smith's productivity. Smith is averaging 117 receiving yards per game for 818 yards through 7 games this year.

Smith's resurgence fits right in to the "consistently inconsistent" label. Smith is certainly among the better receivers of his time. However, without more than a few truly exemplary seasons, unless Smith plays at his current level until age 40, can he really make a case for being among the greatest of all-time?

Steve Smith plays with a furor seldom seen at the wide receiver position. 8

FUTURE HOPEFULS

Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona Cardinals - Fitzgerald is only 28 years old, yet is already among the NFL's 50 all-time leading receivers. He has completed seven seasons in his career with five Pro Bowl appearances and one AP First Team All-Pro award. Fitzgerald has caught at least 90 passes and recorded at least 1,000 receiving yards in four out of the past five seasons. If Fitzgerald remains healthy and plays into his mid-30s, he should be considered among the league's all-time great receivers when he retires.

Fizgerald is just getting warmed up. 9

Wes Welker, New England Patriots - The criticism that Wes Welker would be useless as an outside receiver, as opposed to his role in the slot, is a useless criticism. Either you catch the ball or you don't. Either you move the ball or you don't. Either you score a touchdown or you don't. If the road less traveled brings a man to his destination in time, what difference does it make how he arrives?

In his 8th season, Welker spent the first three years of his career as a kick return specialist and third/fourth option receiver. That changed with his arrival to the New England Patriots during their Super Bowl run in 2007. Welker recorded a league-high 112 receptions in 2007, the first of three consecutive years in which he would catch 111 or more balls.

Welker is 29 years old and needs to make up for the lost time as a starter in the earlier part of his career. He appears to be doing an excellent job, on pace for 136 receptions and 2,093 receiving yards, which would shatter the NFL record of 1,848 yards set by Jerry Rice in 1995. Welker needs to continue to put up monster receiving numbers for at least another three years and then remain healthy and productive for approximately three more years. Should he do that, he should be able to join the elite in the Hall of Fame.

Welker (left) and All-Pro tackle Matt Light (right) may be joining Tom Brady (center) in the Hall one day. 10

Don't forget to vote in the fan polls!

To advertise with The Daily Hat Trick, or to submit a guest column, please contact the editor at eric@thedailyhattrick.info.

The Daily Hat Trick is sponsored by Sports N Stuff. For great deals on jerseys, shirts, cologne, and other guy stuff, visit http://www.sportsnstuff.biz/.

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End of Lockout Celebration? Not So Fast My Friend!

The NFL lockout is over. Pop the champagne bottles! Break out the party favors!! We can all celebrate!!!

Well, not all of us. Now that the ink is on the paper and the deal is done, NFL teams ARE back to the business of football. Unfortunately, the business of football is not all glamour, glory and pleasantries. The new collective bargaining agreement brings us back to the realities of salary cap casualties.


The 2010 season was an uncapped year. There is a cap in 2011, meaning teams will have to go through this, always, difficult, unpleasant, but fiscally necessary annual exercise. Some players, usually veterans, usually good players, often fan favorites, and, sometimes, all-time franchise greats have to turn in their playbooks, often after an entire career of service. Their clubs simply cannot afford to keep them at their salary for the upcoming season.

Today, the Hat Trick is going to look at a few teams and players that have no choice but to part ways. As I said yesterday, the free agency movements will be fast and furious, compared to years past. These players may have signed a contract with a new team or have been retained by their current team at a restructured/reduced salary by the time you read this article. Nonetheless, here are some big names of players are will likely be cut or are in danger of being cut for cap purposes.

There is no putting lipstick on the piggy bank. 1

BALTIMORE RAVENS HOUSE CLEANING

It would be a shame for the last act, as Ravens, for tight end Todd Heap, wide receiver Derrick Mason, and running back Willis McGahee to be turning in their playbooks and equipment, right before being shown the door. Derrick Mason is the NFL’s 12th all-time leading receiver, with a chance to be in the Hall of Fame one day. Todd Heap is the NFL’s 5th all-time leading receiver among active tight ends. McGahee is the Ravens’ third all-time leading rusher in franchise history. All three of these players, at some point, are likely to honored by the team in some manner, such as placement in the Ring of Honor, after they retire. All three may have ended their days with the Ravens by being unceremoniously cut before training camp.

I expect all three players to be able to play football in 2011, should they choose. I think there is zero chance of McGahee returning to the Ravens, with Ray Rice already established as the starter. Mason retired, then unretired, less than a month later, from the Ravens in 2009. While still productive, I am unsure how much of a pay cut Mason would be willing to accept to return to Baltimore. The same applies to Heap. I think the Ravens would have a spot for him at the right price.

In spite of bending over backwards for the Ravens during his career, Mason was sent packing on Monday. 2

WASHINGTON REDSKINS

Donovan McNabb, QB: I would never say “never” to any question regarding the Washington Redskins that should be answered using logic and reason. Owner Dan Snyder somehow infected Mike Shanahan, whose reputation was unimpeachable before his arrival in our nation’s capital, with the dysfunction and irrationality with which Snyder has run the Redskins during his tenure as owner.


Shanahan appears to not get along with Donovan McNabb and it appears as though the marriage between the coach and QB cannot work. Assuming the Redskins do not floor all of us (though the “floor”, when it comes to the Redskins, is well padded due to frequent use) and keep McNabb as the starter, the QB will be released or traded. There are several NFL teams with good, contender-caliber components everywhere on the field except under center. Granted, 2010 was McNabb’s worst season as a pro, but considering his team, many may be inclined to give him a mulligan.


Albert Haynesworth, DT: Physically, Haynesworth is one of the biggest freaks in the history of the defensive tackle position. His salary, with respect to his performance and motivation with the Redskins, however, is outrageous. The Redskins are in the undesirable position of having to trade Haynesworth and getting little in return, while feeling some salary cap pain in penalties, triggered by Haynesworth’s titanic signing bonus from 2009 in his $100 million contract, or cut Haynesworth and take a titanic pounding in salary cap penalties because they cannot convince another team to throw millions down the black hole that is Fat Albert.

You would be amazed at how many knee slappers like this you can find about Haynesworth on the Internet. 3

CINCINNATI BENGALS

Carson Palmer, QB: Carson Palmer put his house up for sale during the offseason, demanded a trade from the Bengals (which I completely understand), and said he would retire before playing again for Cincinnati. Bengals Owner Paul Brown said he would not reward a player for refusing to report by trading him.


Yeah, yeah. That’s great, Mr. Brown, except nothing from nothing leaves nothing. Palmer does not appear to be bluffing and the Bengals will get nothing for a starting QB in his prime if they refuse to deal him. Oatmeal is better than no meal.


Chad Ochocinco, WR: Chad Ochocinco is still a productive wide receiver, worth more to the market than his $6 million salary. However, the expectations in Cincinnati are low next season. With no legitimate, experienced NFL QB in Cincinnati and almost no chance of resigning Ochocinco after this season, the Bengals may be poised to release the former Pro Bowl wide receiver or trade him.

You think I'm sticking around after this year? Pssttt! CHILD PLEASE! 4

OTHER HIGH PROFILE BUBBLE PLAYERS

Steve Smith, WR – Carolina Panthers: Smith is probably a Hall-of-Famer. The leading receiver in Panthers history was not happy with the state of affairs in Carolina at the end of last year. With a hefty salary, an age greater than 30, and chronic injury problems, Smith is likely to be on the salary cap chopping block.

This could be a win-win. When Smith IS healthy, he is lethal to opposing defenses. Smith has good years left in his tank. The question is, “How many?”


Reggie Bush, RB – New Orleans Saints: If you have been reading the Hat Trick for any extended period of time, you know that I am a New Orleans native and may be somewhat biased. I will try to be objective. Here goes….

Bush is due nearly $12 million in salary next year and he will not collect that. Casual observers of the Saints may assume that he will simply be cut because he is not an every down running back and he has been hampered by injuries throughout his career. Die hards, like me, understand Bush’s value to the offense and the team. More so, so does Saints Head Coach Sean Payton and his opinion is one of a small few that actually counts. Since the Saints control his rights and, I believe, will make a good faith effort to keep him, I think they will make Bush a fair, probably slightly favorable, offer reflective of his true, current NFL market value.


Not everybody can fly to the end zone from the 6 yard line. 5

 Roy Williams, WR – Dallas Cowboys: The status of Roy Williams’ future with the Cowboys has been a soap opera since his arrival in Big D. When Williams joined the Cowboys via a trade with the Detroit Lions in 2008, the consensus opinion was that Williams was being brought in to replace Terrell Owens and be the Cowboys primary target in the future. Williams is earning franchise receiver money, but the “washed up” T.O. put up better numbers than Williams in less-than-desirable offenses in Buffalo and Cincinnati in 2009 and 2010, respectively, and then-rookie receiver Dez Bryant excelled last season. Something’s gotta give.


Lee Evans, WR – Buffalo Bills: The third all-time leading receiver in franchise history (Andre’ Reed, Eric Moulds) is earning a Pro Bowler’s salary but has not looked anything like an NFL standout since 2008. Granted, the Bills have had myriad issues on offense and at the quarterback position over the past several years. Regardless, the emergence of young Stevie Johnson as a favorite target for quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick may make Evans, and his salary cap liability, expendable.


David Garrard, QB – Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jags drafted QB Blaine Gabbert in the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft. Garrard is expected to earn close to $8 million in 2011. The Jaguars were in contention for a playoff spot until the end of the 2010 season, so a change at quarterback may be unlikely before the season starts. However, if the Jags get off to a very bad start (such as an 0-3 or 0-4 start), not beyond the realm of possibilities, Garrard and his salary may come off of the Jaguars books before the trade deadline.


Nick Barnett, LB – Green Bay Packers: Barnett announced this afternoon that he would not be with the Packers this season. The eight year veteran starting linebacker and member of last year’s Super Bowl champion Packers team missed most of last season due to injury and would have counted $4 million against the salary cap, according to ESPN.com, perhaps too much for a 30 year old LB riddled with injury problems in recent years. Barnett had missed 19 regular season games during the past three years.


Nate Clements, CB – San Francisco 49ers: Clements, according to ESPN, will count $17 million against the cap this season. The 31 year old cornerback has seen his productivity decline since joining the 49ers, though he still has some tread left on his tires.


Vince Young, QB – Tennessee Titans: With the Titans announcement, last season, that they intended to sever ties with Young, the use of their first round pick in the 2011 draft to acquire quarterback Jake Locker, and the $13 million cap liability attached to Young, the question is “Where will he end up?” and not “Will the Titans release him?”

He needs a team, too. 6

Get your popcorn ready!


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1) Image from riverfronttimes.com
2) Image from mirror.co.uk
3) Image from albany.com
4) Image from thepigskindoctors.com
5) Image from egotvonline.com
6) Image from blacksportsonline.com

Word on the Tweet - May 17, 2011

Twitter bombs have been dropping. Feet have been put in mouth. And The Daily Hat Trick has, once again, gotten the top secret, private Tweets that are not available to the public!


Atlanta Thrashers President Don Waddell, whose NHL club is rumored to be attempting a move to Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada:

@AtlantaJournalConstitution I keep telling you guys that those @Mayflower trucks are for the move to my new house. #rumors

Mayflower Customer Service:

@ThrasherDon So…we’re delivering this Zamboni to your HOUSE? #BS RT @AtlantaJournalConstitution I keep telling you guys that those @Mayflower trucks are for the move to my new house.

The Mayflower company has heard this song and dance before. 1, 2

Kansas City Royals organization relief pitcher Vin Mazzaro, who gave up 14 runs in less than 3 innings and was subsequently sent down to the minors:

At least I didn’t get the loss. #GraspingAtStraws #SavingFace #ERA>DrinkingAge

"Dude! Why is he leaving me in the game? Did the skipper find out I hooked up with his daughter? I told you that in confidence!" 3

Cincinnati Bengals WR Chad Ochocinco, who recently tried his hand at bull riding:

Maybe they’ll trade me now.

QB Carson Plamer, who has vowed to retire if the Bengals don’t trade him:

@Ochocinco Only if the bull steps on you first. #NiceTry RT Maybe they’ll trade me now.

FAIL! 4

Phoenix Suns President Rick Welts, who recently announced that he is gay:

@BlackMamba It just so happens the visiting locker room is being fumigated the next time you guys play here. There’s a storage shed in the parking lot you guys can use.

Kobe’s response:

@CEO_Welts You’re a real pain in the ass, you know that? RT @BlackMamba It just so happens the visiting locker room is being fumigated the next time you guys play here.

Welts:

@BlackMamba So you saw my press conference, too? #rimshot #zing!

Yankees GM Brian Cashman, in response to Derek Jeter’s public support of Jorge Posada asking out of Saturday’s lineup, in which Posada would have batted 9th. Jeter recently singed a 4 year contract, worth $45 million to $59 million:

@DJeterPoonMaster You are the CAPTAIN of this team! We expect your support in these matters! #CompanyMan

Jeter’s reply:

@ColdHardCashman F__k you! Pay me! #PaulieFromGoodfellas

"Brian Cashman? Whatamigonnado with this guy, eh?" 5

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1) Image from thedisposition.us

2) Image from cultureofsoccer.com

3) Image from Sports Illustrated

4) Image from hellobeautiful.com

5) Image from lazyeyetheatre.blogspot.com

Word on the Tweet - January 26, 2011

The Daily Hat Trick stays on top of the movers and shakers in the sports world. Once again, we, being me and my imagination, have gotten our hands on the private, top secret Tweets sent out by players and coaches, for players and coaches. I had to do a few things I would not admit to in a job interview to get these, but my dedication to you, the reader, is unbreakable. Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet, nor hail...you do not really care, do you? On to this week’s edition of “Word on the Tweet”….

Wal-Mart CEO Michael Duke and NBA Commissioner David Stern discussing the possibility of contraction in the NBA….

Duke: @SternDiscipline Dave, is this true, what I have been hearing about you getting rid of a few teams? #OpportunityKnocking

Stern: @FirstRetailThenTheWorld We’re considering everything. Some of these teams just aren’t bringing home the bacon. We can’t find buyers for the teams and there aren’t any better markets to which we can move teams. #UpToSomething RT @SternDiscipline Dave, is this true …

Duke: @SternDiscipline At Wal-Mart, we minimize costs, in part, by purchasing in volume. I saw the #Hornets for sale for $300 mil. Could we get a package deal and buy all four teams you want to dump for a cool billion? #NewOrleansGreatValue #MemphisPresidentsChoice #MinnesotaSams RT @SternDiscipline At Wal-Mart, we minimize costs …

REALLY? 4

Stern: @FirstRetailThenTheWorld Michael, you understand that there is a possible labor stoppage with the @NBAPlayersUnion? You have to pay the players a little more than $8.75 an hour. You have to offer benefits. Nobody under 19 is allowed to play, let alone 9 and we don’t have sweatshops generating low-cost players. You…knew that, right? #WTF

Duke: @SternDiscipline U-whats??? How much to you have to pay them? Ten bucks an hour? No…kids can work for you? No wonder you’re losing money! #WorldsGreatestBoss

Players Union Rep: @FirstRetailThenTheWorld Wal-Mart?? We should go on strike NOW! #OverOurDeadBodies #ColdDayInHell #PigsFly RT @SternDiscipline U-whats??? How much to you have to pay them? …


Brett Favre and former NFL RB Herschel Walker, who is considering a comeback to the NFL at age 48….

Favre: @DontNeedAWalker Are you sure you want to do this? The league is pretty rough today. #Insanity #EvenImNotThatDelusional

Walker: @OlGunslinger I’m in the best shape of my life. Besides, the #MMA thing is cool, but I want some better product endorsements. #MedicalMiracle #FourThreeFortyTime RT @DontNeedAWalker Are you sure…

Favre: @DontNeedAWalker Tell you what, I’ll reach out to some sponsors that didn’t quite fit my brand, but might be interested in you. We forty-somethings have to stick together! #Geritol #Depends #Metamucil #Ensure #RockingChairs #FuneralHomes RT @OlGunslinger I’m in the best shape of my life. …

Herschel Walker may need to get equipment different from what he wore in his day. 3

Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens on Ochocinco changing his name back to “Johnson”….

Ochocinco: @TOShow I’m done with this “Ochocinco” business man. It is played. It’s time for a name change.

Owens: @OchoCinco Finally growing up? #AboutTime

Ochochinco: @TOShow Yeah. Besides, if they trade me, I might not even wear #85. I’ve gotta learn the numbers in CHINESE for my next team!

Owens: @OchoCinco Dude, it’s getting old. #ChildPlease #EvenImEmbarrassed

"Ochocinco" in Chinese? CHILD PLEASE! 2

Willis Reed (former New York Knick who played in Game 7 of the 1970 NBA Finals with a severely torn thigh muscle) and Bears QB Jay Cutler, who left the NFC Championship Game with a sprained knee….

Cutler: @LastNameEverFirstNameToughest It’s an honor to Tweet you, Mr. Reed. Let me ask you: was it worth it?

Reed: @VealCutler I thought I blocked you?!?! #YouAreNotWorthy #GrowAPair #ManUp RT @LastNameEverFirstNameToughest It’s an honor …

Betcha nobody questioned Reed's injury. 1

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1) Image from sportsillustrated.cnn.com
2) Original Image from charlottehappening.com, altered after download
3) Image from sportsshovel.blogspot.com
4) Image from onemanfastbreak.net