Ah, but what is the likelihood that the Packers will pursue a free agent center? If the Packers aren't willing to "overpay" for Wells, who has been a critical part of *their* roster, what is the likelihood they will overpay for an even better center? IMO, slim and none.
Wells right now is arguably the Packers' second best OL, at arguably the second most important OL position.
If he goes,then the Packers have another hole to fill. A hole that I for one would not want to have to rely on a rookie -- any rookie -- to fill.
The more holes the Packers have, the greater the likelihood that one or more of them is dependent on hitting a home-run on a late-run draft pick. Right now I count three serious holes on defense (DE, LB, S) for sure, and (though I know people disagree on this last) a need for another starter-quality OL even if Wells stays. Add in the need to improve OL and DL backups, to pick up a backup quarterback, and you're asking a damn lot out of the draft.
I guess I don't care that much whether Wells is holding a grudge for being dissed X years ago or not. What I care about is whether they lose a key free agent or not in a year when they've got some serious holes to fill already.
Because I have very little confidence that Ted Thompson will make a first tier FA signing. It's simply not his MO. He doesn't overpay -- he looks for bargains and "value-for-money". How many free agent OL during his tenure have signed anywhere in the league as a "bargain"? How many free agent OL during his tenure have
not been "overpaid" by his criteria?
Wade, for one, it's not PFT stirring the pot. If anything, it's Bob McGinn. Most of what PFT does is provide a summary of others articles.
Either way, if Wells truly is being so bitter with his "long memory" than I'm annoyed at him. He got beat out a few years ago. This if the NFL. No one is entitled to a starting job. It has to be earned and with time Wells has done just that. I'm not sure why he feels it's personal. As a 7th round undersized center, one is going to have to continually prove himself. If he is truly taking anything that has happened throughout his career personal, perhaps it's best he moves on. There will be plenty of other free agent centers, several as good or better than Wells anyway, if need be.
An interesting quote from an AFC scout from the article:
Originally Posted by: doddpower
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
Romans 12:2 (NKJV)