Spesh
#freespesh
I think we're all familiar with the Parcells/Ireland prototype thing. But as we all know, they occasionally DO deviate from it. While Pat White didn't work out for us, they deviated from their prototype rules in order to select a player they believed perfectly fit their offensive scheme.
The bottom line is does Philbin believe Tavon Austin is a vital cog in his offensive vision? We know he has a role in the offense for a Randall Cobb type of player. The question is whether that particular piece of the offense is viewed (by Philbin) as a necessity or luxury, and how well does Tavon Austin's skillset fit into that role as compared to other options. We know Ireland buys into Philbin's offensive vision. If Philbin is hot on what Austin specifically can do for this offense, Austin will be the pick.
Yes, Ireland's previous track record and everything we know about how he operates indicates he won't draft Austin. But he's not necessarily being left to his own devices.
Pat White was not drafted to play a position for our offense. He was drafted for a specific package in which his height wasnt to much of a consideration. In order to do the job we drafted him for he didnt need to be 6'4. And regardless, it failed. Hugely. What do you think Ireland took from that lesson? That it was right to deviate from his philosophy or wrong?
I havnt seen any indication that Ireland has changed his standards for Philbin. In fact, both seem to agree with going after size/build prototype. Philbin himself spent most of his career as an offensive line coach and didnt seem to object to drafting a right tackle with our second round pick, despite their being wideouts available who would have fit his "scheme". What did we do on offense this offseason? Bring in two 6'0 receivers and a 6'2 tight end.
As for Ireland no longer following Parcells model: during the "Parcells years" we spent a first and third round pick on offensive linemen. The last 2 years weve spent a first and second round pick on offensive linemen. Its mind boggling people cant make the connection between the two "eras"..despite the fact that its a complete myth that Ireland had no role in our front office his first 3 years of receiving pay checks.
If Ireland didnt change his requirements for 2012, he probably wont change them for 2013. Its not impossible he will draft Austin, but it would be totally and completely out of character for him to do so. And if he does, it probably wont be because of Philbin. It will most likely be because his seat is hotter then we've been led to believe and he knows we have to sell some tickets.