Quote:
Originally Posted by rubecube
Weird move.
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A 6th is a little high, but the Saints were waiting for the Phins to release Mare, and they wouldnt do it. They also rejected the Saints offer of a 7th rounder.
On top of that Saints K John Carney had a great year last year, and is one of the most accurate kickers in the league. But he's into his 40's now, and his leg is not near as strong as it once was. It got so bad that the Saints had to sign Cowboys castoff Billy Cundiff just for kickoffs. On top of that, while warming up before the NFC Championship Game, Carney couldnt hit ANYthing past 40 yards, to the point where they had to let Cundiff, a career 72.3% kicker, handle FG's for that game. I dont think Payton wanted to go another year using up a roster spot just for a kickoff specialist.
Mare didnt have a very strong year in '06. But with the Saints, he will be kicking indoors for half the season, and then another two games in stadiums with retractable roofs. His performance should increase under those conditions. So overall, a little much to give up for a kicker, but a move Payton felt was necessary.
And just to add to this, the Saints also brought in Mike Vanderjagct for a tryout last month, and have yet to get back to him. He may be invited to TC to give Mare a run for the kicker's job. Though I dont see Payton keeping a guy with an attitude like Vangerjagct, after cleaning house of similar players last year.