Draft Daddy's recent update of their list of 12 best available wide receivers (either free agents or practice squad players) includes 4 white guys, even though Mike Hass was absent from the list because they didn't include any rookies:
Chase Lyman ~ Imagine missing most of your college career due to a string of serious knee injuries, but having the size (6' 3"), speed (4.45) and hands to still be a 4th round pick? Unfortunately for Lyman, he also missed his rookie season (2005) with another serious knee injury. But he's back and healthy and currently on New Orleans' practice squad. Might be the most intriguing prospect on any practice squad, but he just needs to prove he can stay healthy.
Marc Boerigter ~ As recently as the summer of 2004, he was seriously vying for a starting spot in Kansas City, until a major knee injury knocked him backwards. Came back and made the Chiefs in 2005 as a role player, but was sent packing by K.C.'s new coaching staff last spring. Good size and speed, so he might get more chances in the N.F.L. If Boe doesn't get a chance by the end of the season, he may return to the C.F.L., where he was young superstar for Calgary coming out of Hastings College.
Brad Pyatt ~ At one point, Pyatt looked like a rising star as a return specialist for the Colts -- was among the N.F.L.'s leaders in kick and punt return average as a rookie until he suffered a neck injury in a game at Miami. Since then, he's been out football the last 2 seasons due to reasons we don't fully understand (minor injuries?). Possesses great speed (sub 4.4), and good balance, vision and strength as a returner. Is also coming off a very solid preseason for the Rams -- as a returner and receiver. But again, will he ever get another shot in real games? We think he sure deserves it.
Chas Gessner ~ Some Jets fans dubbed this former Ivy League Lacrosse star "Mr. August". The last 3 preseason's, various coaches around the N.F.L. have lauded Gessner's size, stamina and leaping ability during the summer months. However, when the regular season starts, the former N.F.L. Europe star is usually no where to be found. Really impressed Tampa's coaches this summer, but again fell victim to the numbers game. If he ever gets a shot, could be valuable player in the mold of Brian Finneran.
as usual, Draft Daddy does a superb job of evaluating talent, regardless of skin color. isn't it ridiculous that no team would offer Gessner a job? Brian Finneran was the best receiver the Falcons have had for about four years, so why wouldn't a team give his clone a chance? Boerigter has shown his ability yet no one is interested. how can this be? Pyatt is one of the best return men in the NFL, yet he's out of football completely? WTF? and Lyman, a big-play waiting to happen, can't even get a shot now that he's healthy. why not offer him the league minimum and see what happens? what could it hurt? jeez!
