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Taylor has been linked to the Oakland Raiders, who would certainly welcome a book end for Burgess, but after a massive off season spending spree by Al Davis, the Raiders may be a little short in the pocket, especially considering they’ve yet to ink their 4th overall 2008 1st round draft pick RB Darren McFadden.
Though they haven’t been mentioned together, its my opinion the division rival Chiefs could make a home for the beleaguered DE.
Despite trading away the leagues leading pass
rusher, Kansas City, believe it or not, still has an opportunity to be a good defensive unit in 2008.
Many people are aware of Kansas City’s selection of LSU stand out 6-2, 303 lb. DT Glen Dorsey with the 5th overall pick of the 2008 draft and his addition, despite the subtraction of Jared Allen, could give the Chiefs the anchor they need to execute the Cover 2 very well in the next season.
Free agent acquisition Alphonso Boone made waves in the beginning of last year but faded down the stretch, but in all fairness, considering the lack of game time for teammates Turk McBride or Tank Tyler, might’ve seen the field more than he should have.
Speaking of Tyler, the 6-2, 306 lb. 23 year olds rookie season failed to impress, but he has the penetration, motor and speed to be a factor, provides depth and should only get better as time goes on.
His room mates can only hope his insanely loud snoring doesn’t make them weary for game day.
Speaking of room mates...listed as a DE, 2007 rookie Turk McBride spent most of his rookie campaign at defensive tackle where his quickness and ability to penetrate from the 3 technique offered the most value.
KC fans hope he’s no longer rooming with Tyler who’s sleep disorder kept the 6-2, 278 lb. McBride tossing and turning as witnessed by the series, “Hard Knocks: Training camp with the Kansas City Chiefs”.
With the departure of Allen look for McBride to see more action at his DE designation.
Opposite him should be DE Tamba Hali who had an impressive rookie outing in 2006 and while posting a decent 2007, left some underwhelmed.
His stats were comparable to his 06' campaign, but nagging injuries stunted his growth and development at the position.
If he can stay healthy in 08' the 6-3, 275 lb. Liberian could have a very good showing in 08'.
Which brings us to the rumor I started on RF.N concerning Dolphins cast of DE Jason Taylor.
News of the contention between new boss Bill Parcels and Taylor have made headlines and according to his agent, Taylor is looking to be traded.
The Dolphins confirmed they wanted trade offers during the draft, but didn’t field one they thought acceptable compensation for Taylor.
With the departure of Allen and high marks for use of the picks they acquired for him, Kansas City could certainly use the help of another high performing defensive end.
Despite being named the NFL’s Man of the Year in 2007 for his work on and off the field, Taylor finds himself on the outs with Miami and KC finds itself suddenly with out one of the best pass rushers in the game.
The 6-6, 255 lb. Taylor has played and has been productive and durable for 11 years in Miami.
On March 4th 2004 Taylor, in a salary cap move, signed a revised contract putting him on the Dolphins pay roll through the 2009 season. The deal was reportedly was worth $45million dollars with $10 million guaranteed in 2004.
What Taylor may be asking and whether he’s willing to restructure ala Randy Moss is another matter, but Chiefs are considered to have the most cap room this of season. They have some contracts to sign still, but theoretically, they could afford to ink one with Taylor should they choose to.
If they did, they could instantly be upgraded and have the potential of turning into a very good defensive line.
No word at all on the speculation of Kansas City or the Raiders at this time, but if they don’t hurry Taylor could be gone.
A story was posted today another AFC West rival, may inquiring into the 33 year old Taylor.
The San Diego Chargers.
Though reported Thursday by NFLN, some Chargers and fans feel Taylor might not be welcomed with open arms.
Taylor has publicly lashed out at Pro Bowl line backer Shawne Merriman for "tainting" the sport with his steroid abuse.
Whether valid or not, there could be some legitimate interest in the productive veteran whether divison rivals want to admit it or not.
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