Q&A With DF79: Kitna and Rudi?

I'm going to start doing some basic Q&A blogs -- so if you want to know my thoughts on something, just shoot me an email. As I've said before, I'm not an insider so I don't have "secret" information -- but I will give you my informed opinion -- informed opinions being what this Blog is all about! As always, I ask all readers to chime in with their thoughts as well, so always be sure to go back and read the comments!

On Sat, Jan 17, 2009 DesertLion wrote:
DetFan1979, I'm curious about Kitna. How long is left on his contract and do you see us staying with him (as he is a serviceable journeyman QB) and avoiding paying a bundle for DanO (as many other teams will be looking for QB's)? BTW I think Stanton is nothing more then a backup. He's entirely to fragile IMO.

The next item is about Rudi Johnson. Given a good offseason, I think he makes a great #2 back (I think he was only signed to a year deal if I remember right). Do you think they will retain him?

As for Kitna, he is signed through 2010, but if they cut him before his next bonus is paid, they save 2.5 million in cap space -- which is similar to what it would likely cost per year to keep DanO around (maybe a little more). DanO isn't going to get 10 mil a year from anyone, but I think he would be good anywhere up to the 4 mil a year range, as he provides a VERY solid back-up at worst at the most important position. I would even say a 3yr deal at 5 mil each would be worth it, as he is a low-end starter an would lock down the role long enough to give Stanton a fair evaluation, and draft another developmental QB if need be as the future at the position, without being forced to take a risk one someone because you have no choice.

I don't think Rudi is back unless he doesn't get any decent offers elsewhere -- RB is a young man's role, and teams have seen they can get impact backs all the way through the top of round 3 with great reliability. If he doesn't ask for more than backup money to return, you may see him back. the X-Factor is if he is okay with playing the role of backup to Kevin Smith, who will be the unchallenged starter heading into next season. As Don Banks pointed out -- he ran for about a thousand yards, on the 0-16 Lions, in less than a full season of starting. The Lions got first round talent in the 3rd with K. Smith, and Rudi may not want to play second fiddle to that. But, considering the RB market, he may not have a choice.