Quotables: Jay Gruden won’t shackle RG3, Titus Young case delayed again
Will Jay Gruden utilize the read-option with RG3? The ‘Skins’ new head coach had plenty to say on the matter. In other NFL news, the Bills may make a major move in the upcoming draft.
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--Jay Gruden, Redskins head coach on Robert Griffin III
First-year head coach Jay Gruden won’t try to turn his franchise quarterback into a pocket passer despite the obvious need to keep him out of harm’s way.
In speaking with SportsTalk 570’s Andy Pollin, the offensive guru plans to maximize the third-year signal-caller’s talents and find the right balance within the framework of the Washington Redskins’ offense in 2014.
The questions are many when it comes to how Gruden plans to use Griffin in the future, especially given his numerous injuries over the span of his short two years in the league. Maintaining his health as well as highlighting his best skills are each important components to Washington’s success moving forward.
Gruden went on to say the read-option will be a piece of the Redskins’ overall offensive scheme, but nowhere near a major part. He voiced his commitment to the core running game and its priority over running from the quarterback position, pointing out that it takes a lot of practice to be good in that area.
At this point, there’s plenty to do in Washington before the read-option can become a featured part of the playbook, and that seems to be the company line in DC.
“He’s receiving treatment and is in a safe place.”
--Brian Hurwitz, Titus Young's attorney
The strange, sad story of former Detroit Lions wide receiver Titus Young continues to be in a holding pattern as the former Boise State star saw his trial for 11 felony counts, including four for burglary, delayed once again.
The news comes with the revelation that Young is being treated in a Los Angeles-area hospital for undisclosed issues. In the past, Young’s father indicated his son had mental health issues, which may have contributed to his erratic behavior.
The hope within Young’s camp is that before going to trial the parties can reach some type of deal with the Orange County (Calif.) District Attorney’s Office and avoid heading to court.
After an appearance on Tuesday, the court ordered Young to appear once again on June 5.
“You never want to pass up a player.”
--Nick Caserio, Patriots director of player personnel
As the 2014 NFL draft nears, teams continue to do their homework to draft the best players who fit their organization. New England Patriots director of player personnel Nick Caserio was candid in his response to questions on whether or not New England would use its picks on the best player available or on one it needed at a particular position.
There's a precedent here. Caserio recounted the team's decision to draft offensive tackle Nate Solder with the No. 17 overall pick in the 2011 draft. The Pats were set at the position with incumbents Matt Light and Sebastian Vollmer.
“We’re hoping that Dee picks up where he left off. If he does, sky’s the limit.... We believe in him.”
--Dennis Thurman, Jets defensive coordinator on CB Dee Milliner
Dee Milliner didn’t have a good statistical year by any stretch in his 2013 rookie campaign. The second-year cornerback out of Alabama ended on a high note last season after struggling early on. He finished with three interceptions in his last two games and earned AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors as well as the AFC Defensive Player of the Month award for his notable performances to end the year.
He has a ways to go before he realizes the potential that made him a highly-coveted pick, but the coaching staff is confident he’ll get there.
"I've heard from three league sources in the past week that the Bills are trying to trade up. If they do make a move, it'll likely be to land Clowney, Robinson or Watkins."
--Todd McShay, ESPN.com NFL Insider
The Buffalo Bills need to make a splash in the always-competitive AFC East, and in order to do that they may be willing to make a move to land an impact player right away.
The chatter has the Bills poised to potentially aim as high as the top spot in order to land Jadeveon Clowney. If that’s not feasible, the team likes what it sees out of wide receiver Sammy Watkins. There’s been wide speculation that the dynamic playmaker out of Clemson has impressed Bills brass.
If the Jacksonville Jaguars and Cleveland Browns pass on Watkins at No. 3 or 4, then the Bills could feasibly move up and nab him.
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