I also used the words reset and overhaul. So what exactly are we currently calling it now, a course correction? Seems to be fluid and superfluous depending on the wind.
Sorry, but I completely disagree with your assessment of the players listed. Out of all those players listed, I would count two foundational players: Ramsey and Hill. These are two players that Grier had to pluck from other teams. Nothing wrong with that of course, just pointing out that they’re no-brainer acquisitions if you throw enough money on the table. And of course he did.
Defense:
• Ramsey (2)*
• Jevon Holland - disappears during games and checkered injuries. Still has of yet to fulfill his potential. Maybe a new defensive coordinator changes that, I hope so.
• Jaylen Phillips - checkered injury history dating back to college. Has a terrific motor and nice arsenal of moves, but can he come back to his pre-injury form? I hope so.
• Chubb - Solid, yet unspectacular and again with a checkered injury history. Not even going to get into the Tennessee game. Can he also come back to his pre-injury form? Who knows, but I hope that he does.
You will notice that I’m using the words hope and injuries more than I would care to mention. Just noting that for the sake of posterity.
Offense:
Tua - I think it’s fair to say that the jury is still out on our QB. Wouldn’t you say? The team and organization can pay him whatever they want, but that doesn’t magically generate success and playoff victories. I hope he takes the next step, genuinely. But if he doesn’t, or suffers another crippling injury and with Grier’s magic touch with OL would we be surprised? No.
Tyreek Hill (1)*
Waddle - Explosive player, but drops catches that he shouldn’t. Which is weird, because I don’t remember that being much of problem at Alabama. He’s a fearless player, but this has gotten him in trouble with some injuries. Again, checkered injuries and some drops. I honestly think he needs to add some more muscle and definition, without losing his speed with longevity in mind. We’ll see on this one.
Achane - Extremely exciting player to watch, but yet again derailed by injury. I don’t envision him ever being a 20-25 carry RB, but he doesn’t need that many carries. That said he’s more of a change of pace/3rd down back. Nothing wrong with that of course, but it’s hard to place him as a workhorse.
Armstead - Man, where to begin with this one. He’s the epitome of an unreliable player. Now don’t get me wrong, he’s a very good T (when healthy), but his very extensive injury history makes him a coin flip from game to game. This is not a cornerstone for your football team, but a frustrating albatross.
Jackson - Again, checkered injury history. I get it though, that donating the bone marrow to his sister may have set him back. Very noble and wonderful that I applaud. That said, he’s really only had one and half good season(s) in the NFL. Will he continue to remain healthy and playing at the same level as last year? Remains to be seen, but I sure hope that he does. Needs to have back-to-back good seasons and to remain relatively healthy.
Ingold - Good blocker, but difference maker on offense? We could lose him tomorrow and would our offense be hindered? Probably not. Mike McDaniel doesn’t use him enough even as a gadget player, but I get the blocking/thumper angle.
So by my count (and argument) I count two players as truly foundational pieces: Hill and Ramsey. Here’s the rub of it though, you’re looking at likely a two year window before the glass breaks.
Eichenberg and Ezukama are just bodies, and have done absolutely nothing impactful since being on the team. Are you noticing a trend yet? How about with Tindall? Cam Smith? All of them are synonymous with having accomplished zilch - if some of them even sniff the field.
Do you know what’s missing from this picture and the common thematic with the players you listed? Injuries, supposition, and the real lack of reliable trench grinders and space eaters of substance with a dog mentality. It’s simply not present, but they should be and also be the cornerstone for the team.
I’m not seeing what you see.
