[BFritz]

Slapping the Franchise Tag on Smith pretty much took us out of the running for any big name FA.

I really believe this team is a lot closer to taking that next step than most people think. Despite all the injuries, despite all the off the field problems, despite the toughest schedule in the league, this team was a 38 yrd field goal away from returning to the playoffs.

Its true the defense has to come on. But another thing that worries me is our offensive line. Bob Bratkowski made the comment that Carson Palmer got hit more last year than any QB has ever been hit in his system. We can't have that gang. CP is the heart of this team. I guess that shows how special Palmer really is. Despite all the pressure he stlll threw for a team record in yardage and made the Pro Bowl. To me, priority one is protecting him.

I agree that the offensive line needs work, but you don't need to spend a lot of money in free agency or use high draft picks on offensive linemen. There will be skilled ones left late in the draft and free agency that won't break our bank account.