NFL Trades End the Drama for Shockey, Taylor

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If you were asked to name one drama that has been unfolding this NFL off season, you'd probably mention Brett Favre trying to return to the NFL.  If asked to name a second, it's a safe bet you'd say Jason Taylor's drama in Miami.  Would he report to camp?  Would he hold out for a trade?  Would he become a professional dancer?  The world just needed to see this end because it had dragged out way too long.

Alas, an announcement was made that the Miami Dolphins had reached an deal with the Washington Redskins that would send defensive end Jason Taylor to the Redskins for a second round pick in 2009 and a sixth rounder in 2010.  Thank heaven.  Taylor makes his way to a team that should be competitive this season and should make an instant impact.  The word is that Taylor, who historically has been a right-side defensive end, will be placed on the left-side of the Redskins' defensive line.  This puts him square against the right tackle of an offensive line.  And typically, the right tackle is less of a challenge than a left tackle.  Given most quarterbacks are right handed, a team will stack a better left side on the defensive line to protect the quarterback's blind side.  Taylor is just too good for many of the right tackles in the league and should have a very productive year.

Jason Taylor is entering into his 12th season in the NFL.  He was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the 3rd round of the 1997 NFL Draft.  In 2007 he led the Dolphins with 11.0 sacks and one interception returned for a touchdown, the only defensive touchdown scored by Miami all season.

New question.  Name one of the most outspoken and emotional players in the game.  OK, Terrell Owens comes to mind, but think tight ends.  And the words uttered should be "Jeremy Shockey."  Reports were swirling that he wanted out of New York and that he "didn't feel wanted."  Monday, he got his wish.  he New York Giants traded the oft-injured tight end to the New Orleans Saints for a second and a fifth round pick.

Shockey's greatest strength is his enthusiasm on the field.  He's not afraid to call a spade a spade, which has gotten him in hot water in the past.  Recall the Giants' week 3 loss to Seattle in 2006, Shockey plainly stated to the press after the game, "We got outplayed, and we got outcoached. Write that down".  Coach Tom Coughlin was less than pleased, leaving Shockey to apologize for his comments.  If only Jeremy could turn some of this off-field action into offensive production on a regular basis.

Shockey had his best year as a pro in 2002, his rookie year.  In 13 starts that year, he amassed 74 receptions for 894 yards and 2 touchdowns.  Since then he has seen no more than 7 touchdowns in a season and only tallied more than 700 yards one other time (891 yards in 2005).  He has also seen his share of injuries, most recently a broken leg in week 15 of the 2007-2008 season.  This left him on the bench during the New York Giants' historic playoff run and eventual improbable victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII.

He, as well as the Giants' organization, felt he was expendable with the stable of tight ends they have going into training camp this off season.  The Saints get a very solid player in Shockey when healthy.  His presence makes one wonder what is in store for the current #1 tight end in New Orleans, Eric Johnson.  Only time will tell. 

For now, we have finally laid to rest two of the larger disgruntled player dramas unfolding this NFL off season.  Next up, the saga of Brett Favre and where he'll land when training camp begins in a few weeks.  Better Brett drama than Britney drama, I suppose.  Right?