I think it’s pretty incredible how quickly and effectively they turned over the WR position in just two years. We played 1-2 seasons with pretty much just Stevie and camp bodies. Flash forward two years, and the WRs are now Watkins, Woods, Williams, Goodwin. The potential is enormous, on paper. I also like how the new WR corps actually fulfills logical roles. Feature, possession, red-zone, burner. Among other reasons, this is why I think it made sense to trade Stevie. He’s quite admirable at what he does, but he doesn’t fit into any one role. On the other hand I think he will thrive as a JOAT WR in SF.
I agree with other posters that atm, I would rather have Watkins than for example, Ebron + 2015 #15 overall. On the other hand I don’t think that Cleveland is doing too shabby either with Gilbert + 2015 1st. I’d predict them to win that division in 2-3 years. Strong possibility that the trade ends up win/win.
I am also pleased that they are rolling three-deep at RB this year and hedging against FJ retirement and CJ contract issues.
I am not surprised at all that they ignored QB… Manuel will get at least 1-2 more years of good will from the FO before they reconsider their assessment if he does not develop as they expect. Lewis was actually quite decent in relief last year.
I said this as soon as they were drafted last year, but the D. Williams and Meeks picks were 100% about preparing for Byrd’s departure. Mid/late picks with an extra year of preparation are better bets and more efficient investments than whatever 2nd or 3rd round safety we would have had to draft this year if we hadn’t exercised such foresight.