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I do truly believe his replacement is here in Freeland. Freeland got thrust into playing time well before he was supposed to. An Uber athletic freak who needed a NFL strength and conditioning program. I think his ceiling is quite high. I also still like the idea of Jake Witt as the swing tackle.

Braden Smith is only 28 years old.  We just witnessed Ballard resign Grover at age 30 and Kenny at age 28.  He also extended Buckner at age 30.  Kelly is 30.  I would think that if Smith continues to perform at a high level this year he would have an excellent chance of getting extended next year like we did with Buckner.  That would lower his cap hit as well. Kelly is probably in a more vulnerable position if he wants to keep playing.  If the team really shows they are approaching Super Bowl contention he might want to return.  So much depends on his concussion issues and his performance and availability this year as well.  Fortunately we might have drafted his replacement this year.  Familiarity and continuity on the OL is very important as we know.  So I can see Ballard trying to keep it together as long as possible if the players continue to perform and our window remains open.  The good news is Ballard drafted for future needs on the OL this year.  I expect that will continue so I could see tackle being one of the higher picks next year.  

Ballard was perfectly clear Smith was drafted as a guard. And he directly commented to the importance of being able to control the "depth of the pocket". It is a terrible shame that Smith wasn't a guard for us. He definitely could have been a perennial Pro Bowler and perhaps All-Pro some years.  The guy has given up a lot of pressures against speed rushers. And have you ever seen a highlight of him making a great block out in space in the screen game, etc.? Smith is a superb mauler, period.  As for Fries, he is no more than adequate. He gets mauled by big tackles giving up pressure with bull rushes. And worse yet, he can not bend low and win the war when we need a yard. They list him at 305 and he plays like it. Gonglaves shouldn't have any trouble beating him out in due time. Surely by mid-season. Lets hope so. The real miracle would be that Gonclaves would be able to pass block as well as Smith does at RT and we finally get to see Smith excel inside.