Alternative idea - hand the reigns to AJ Smith

[MiamiMan147]

The other day I found myself commenting on how the Chargers have done a better job of player evalution over the last few years than any other team in the league. The shining example was what came out of the Manning-Rivers trade. To say that deal was lopsided is an understatment. It was something more akin to armed robbery with an a** rape thrown in for good measure. They got the better QB and every pick involved in that trade has worked out great for them. They've picked up guys like Merriman, Gates, Rivers, etc during that time. (They also took the guy I wanted in last years draft, Cromartie, so maybe I'm a bit biased.) They look Superbowl bound this year, despite having a coach who's track record is mixed at best. Its the strength of their talent level that's carrying the team this far, a team that was terrible before Smith got there. Hell they had been so bad for so long the Eli refused to play there.

It was AJ Smith that let Drew Brees go, which caused a huge row with Schottenheimer where the owner basically had to set them both down for a scolding. This means that although things are going well in Chargers land, there could be an opening to lure Smith away. Suppose we hand him the reigns and let him pick the coach? There's a certain assistant coach with San Diego that's already high on people's list for Saban's replacement anyways. Its not out of the ordinary for a GM to have more power or even be considered the boss of the coach.

Thoughts?

 

[Bandit]

Given San Diego's record this season, I doubt that either Smith or Schottie are going anywhere this year. Besides, Smith is under contract to SD, so not only would Miami have to wait to approach him, they would have to get permission to approach him, I believe.

 

[Justasportsfan]

He won't leave the chargers. IMO , he's been the best GM in the entire NFL since he took over. Look at where Rivers is today compared to Eli. I also wouldn't mind taking Turner away from them to take Willis' place. This man is awsome.

 

[DjChemical]

Nope you guys arent Taking AJ from us, its nice to wish though isnt it :)

 

[MiamiMan147]

Hmm, I forgot that we'd be forced to provide San Diego with compensation. SD could simply make the amount so costly as to make it not be viable. I don't know what the limit is but I think I recall the price for Gruden being 2 1st rounders.