Exclusive Interview With NFL Network's Michael Lombardi
We have done it again at PhinsPhocus! We’re proud to bring you another of NFL Network’s head analyst. Michael Lombardi is an NFL insider on NFL Network and a frequent contributor to NFL.com. Lombardi has a very impressive resume having worked in San Fran, Philly and Denver’s front offices. Lombardi is a go to guy for most fans for any breaking news around the league.
In my talk with Mike on the phone, we spoke about the Dolphins, the lockout, the offseason, and even a little bit about the Boss (Bruce Springsteen for those people not living on planet earth)
Daniel Eliesen: Being a former NFL exec, how do front offices around the NFL prepare during the lockout?
Mike Lombardi: Well, it’s the first time this has happened, so it’s important that the teams use their time wisely and evaluate players around the league and opponents. Teams also have to look into which college free agents to sign and start to get ready for the first couple of games of the season.
Daniel Eliesen: Organizations can’t speak with their players, but have GM’s around the league still been talking?
Mike Lombardi: I believe there is some communication, not on specifics though.
Daniel Eliesen: If they do indeed strike a deal before July 4th, how will it affect this NFL season?
Mike Lombardi: It will get work started right away; teams will start building chemistry of their players and will have to find players to fit their needs certainly.
Daniel Eliesen: You were a big supporter of Mallett to Miami; do you think they missed out?
Mike Lombardi: Well they made their choice based on what information they have on him and what is out there on free agency, so we’ll have to see.
Daniel Eliesen: What do you think Miami’s free agency approach will be? Big money RB or a vet QB?
Mike Lombardi: I don’t know. They clearly like Thomas trading up for him, so I think he will be a key part of their offense for them but I think they might go after a RB as a compliment to him but they have a lot faith in him and I am sure they will certainly look at what to do about the QB situation.
Daniel Eliesen: What kind of market do you think there will be for Ricky and Ronnie?
Mike Lombardi: Hard to say. It will be a quick market with teams moving quickly, and teams will be doing a lot of accessing but it depends on the overall interest in the RB market.
Daniel Eliesen: What do you think will be the first line of breaking news when the lockout ends? Kolb?
Mike Lombardi: I think it will be hectic, rapid fire and a lot of different free agents being signed right away. Kolb might take time because there is a lot involved in making a trade so free agents will go first.
Daniel Eliesen: I asked Charles Davis about the direction of the Dolphins and he said he expects them to be in the mix. Do you share his thoughts?
Mike Lombardi: Well they have a really good team. They need to avoid injuries and get strong play from their offensive line but at the end of the day if they have solid play from the QB they have the elements to be a very strong team.
Daniel Eliesen: In honor of Clarence Clemons, what is your favorite Bruce song?
Mike Lombardi: Too Hard! I could never say just one song. Impossible but if I had to pick a song in honor of Clarence I would go with “Tenth Avenue Freeze-Out.”
