I know this wasn’t directed at me, but I see this philosophy is running rampant on this board, and I would like an example besides the Colts supposed tanking to back it up. In truth, the Colts were forced into their terrible season much like the Dolphins were forced into Cutler. Still, let’s give you the Colts to save an argument over parsing the facts, and please point out another team that has tanked successfully.
When did the Patriots tank? The Steelers? Ravens? Seattle? These are perennial contenders, and not one that I am aware of has ever deliberately tanked a season to launch their success. Please correct me if I am wrong, as I have not always followed anyone but the Dolphins. Furthermore, how do they maintain their success with low draft picks year in and year out? If your philosophy is true, shouldn’t these alll be one and done franchises?
It seems to me that a cohesive philosophy on how to build a team, manage the cap and draft players is FAR more relevant than what number your draft pick is. I know you believe you have to have that first round pick for your QB, but Seattle and NE didn’t. The Ravens have hardly had amazing play at QB from Flacco (save on season), either.
The only thing I see that a deliberate tank job does is get people fired, lose the team and discourage FA from signing with you. Is there proof otherwise?