Ted, comotose, say it isn't so!

I used to be old school and want to hang on to veteran players right up until they couldnt play anymore ala Ray Nitschke. Now I see the wisdom in letting a player go two years too early instead of two years too late. The Patriots have been doing it successfully for a long time and they are perennial contenders. I think Ted Thompson is following that model. There is just too much risk in paying big bucks for someone elses retread. If it works youre a genius but if it fails you are looking for a job elsewhere. I would love to have kept Jennings, but you cant cant let the "tail wag the dog". He was demanding too much that would have jeopardized the future of someone more valuable in the next couple years. Getting Steven Jackson had me drooling, but when you pay too much for something that doesnt live up to your expectations, then you regret your decision. Ted Thompson is making the tough choices. Thats what they pay him to do. I believe he is keeping us competitive and for that im thankful. I have no desire to back into the abyss where I waited 29 years between SuperbowlII and SBXXXI.