insight on sports & everyday life

Aug 8, 2008

Chad Pennington and a CLASSY organization (take notes Green Bay)

The New York Jets officially released QB Chad Pennington and the Miami Dolphins are interested. The Dolphins have already contacted Pennington's agent, Tom Condon, according to a source with knowledge of the call. "I appreciate everything Chad Pennington has given to the Jets organization," Jets chairman and CEO Woody Johnson said in a statement. "He was a part of my first draft as an owner in 2000 and has exemplified nothing but class both on and off the field. I wish him, Robin, Luke and Cole my very best." Pennington was drafted in 2000 by present Dolphins football operations boss Bill Parcells, when Parcells was with the Jets.

MY VIEW
What a great contrast for how a front office handles things up front and decisively. They delivered bad news to Pennington but were direct and upfront about it. And then gave him a release where he would be free to sign with any team he wanted without tying a bunch of strings and conditions to it. The situation changed to one where he wasn't wanted as the starting QB any longer, management made a firm and quick decision, Pennington was informed, and he was allowed freedom to sign where he wanted and do what he felt was best for him.

That's how a class business operates.

Miami would make a lot of sense for Pennington. He's a class guy and would bring some leadership and be a good character guy as this team rebuilds. I can see him in Kansas City with Herm Edwards as well. Or Green Bay as veteran insurance. And then you know that Jon Gruden is always looking to add another QB to the harem. He gets nervous when his quarterback corps dips down below 12 guys...

Aug 7, 2008

Favre Trade Thoughts and Conditions

The terms of the trade that sent QB Brett Favre from Green Bay to the New York Jets are as follows:

The Packers will receive at least a fourth round pick. If Favre plays 50 percent of the snaps this season, the pick becomes a third rounder; 70 percent plus a playoff berth and the Packers receive a second rounder; 80 percent and a Super Bowl appearance becomes a first round pick. The Packers also inserted a "poison pill" in the deal. If Favre were to be traded to a NFC North team by the Jets, New York would have to surrender three first-round picks to Green Bay.

I love the sliding scale and think that makes a lot of sense for both sides. The best part to me though was the 3 first rounders if New York trades Favre to Minnesota or Chicago. They don't want him any longer as their QB but they're scared to death of facing him. Classic.
Finally, this debacle is over and everyone can truly move on. Aaron Rodgers doesn't have to worry about Favre anymore. And Favre will be on a crash course to get acclimated with the Jets. Should be fascinating to watch!