Spencer Status

[TEXANRED]

Alright so this is the week a lot of us have been waiting for.

From what I understand this is the week where he either goes on IR or plays.

For Salaam's sake I hope he plays. To me Salaam is starting to look tired out there.

[Marcus]

Where have you been?

Kubiak stated at his news conference last week that he was highly doubtful that Spencer would play this year. He will be IR'd.

[TEXANRED]

Where have you been?

Kubiak stated at his news conference last week that he was highly doubtful that Spencer would play this year. He will be IR'd.

I missed that one. When did he say that? I watch all the Texan TV and listen to his show on Mondays. I don't remember anything about that.

That sucks.

I guess we are going to have to take a tackle with our first pick this year.

[Marcus]

Kubiak's Monday afternoon press conference on 10/8/07 (http://www.houstontexans.com/news/Story.asp?story_id=3745)

(on an update on T Charles Spencer)
“As far as Charles, what week are we going into? Five? I think we’re two weeks away from the decision on Charles, whether he goes on IR. At this point right now, I would say it doesn’t look good. But Charles’ future as far as playing football again does look good. Will it be this year? As of right now, that doesn’t look like that’s going to take place. But I think we’re a couple of weeks away from that, if I’m correct.”

[BornOrange]

I'm just writing this off the top of my head, I may be wrong.

IIRC, if someone is one the PUP list they have to wait until the 6th week of the season before they can practice. When the 6th week arrives, the 4 week window begins. Within that 4 week period, the player can begin to practice with the team. And he can practice for a two week period. At the end of the two weeks of practice, the team has to decide whether to activate him or not. If he is not activated at the end of the two weeks, the team must place him on IR. Or, if he never begins to practice, he must be placed on IR by the 10th week.

[foozball]

He's eligible to come off the PUP list now correct? Is he pretty much done for the year/career?

[texans83]

He's eligible to come off the PUP list now correct? Is he pretty much done for the year/career?

thats my guess but I dont know. Feel bad for the guy. But thats football

[Towlie]

IMO... no

[steelbtexan]

Doesn't look like it. It's to bad. Ron Dayne's worst contribution.

[l33z71]

according to sportsradio 610 this morning, Spencer's return for this season isn't looking good. Take that news for what its worth, but thats what they said after a caller asked the same question.

[SMC-22]

I wondered the same a few days ago.If Spencer were to come back, earliest it would be is next year,and if not then they would put him back on the pup next year,but I was wondering if it took him that long to comeback would he be the same22-23 year old mind that can be "easily" molded.Could they be having him work on his technique or hand work this whole time he's not playing.

[dalemurphy]

according to sportsradio 610 this morning, Spencer's return for this season isn't looking good. Take that news for what its worth, but thats what they said after a caller asked the same question.


Kubiak said that his future looks very good, but it is doubtful he'll make it back this year. I suspect they'll use these next three weeks to evaluate him in practice before deciding to put him on IR. He should be healthy going into next season, the real question is how he'll respond to an almost two year layoff from live action.

[BIG ERN]

thats my guess but I dont know. Feel bad for the guy. But thats football


Do we draft a LT?

[foozball]

well we're gonna have to sooner or later, and there arent many RB's worth a 1st round pick this year, so its either OT or FS (Reggie Smith)

[Wolf123]

I think he'll make it back by next year, but I do see the texans looking for another LT. I doubt they take one in the first, since there so good at finding them in the later rounds.

[JO Texan]

well we're gonna have to sooner or later, and there arent many RB's worth a 1st round pick this year, so its either OT or FS (Reggie Smith)

I'm all for the FS. We need to Finish this D and look to add some FA help to the o-line. Hopefully Bennett will be the answer for the #2 corner spot. Faggins makes a good nickel corner so FS is really the only position of need if this stays true. The later round picks should focus on adding talent and depth to the offense.

[airwarrior]

If I remember an article I read not too long after he was hurt, the injury/break was not typical to football players and the doctors were not sure how he would recover, or if he would get the chance to play again. I would not hold out hope for him this season, it is best to wait. As mentioned earlier, how well he will do after being out for almost two years is anyones guess.

[BornOrange]

Major knee injuries take two years to completely heal. Many athletes are able to come back the first year after the surgery, but most still experience stiffness and swelling and aren't able to perform at the same level that first year. If the surgery went well, the second year is when the athlete is completely recovered.

With Spencer, the recovery has taken a little longer than normal. In addition, Kubiak has stated that he wants the knee at 100% before they bring him back not just because they don't want to re-injure the knee but because they don't want him to tear up the other knee trying to compensate.

If the Texans don't take a left tackle with the first pick next year it will be because they KNOW that Spencer will be back at 100%.

[outofhnd]

Yea but I hate that he is not getting any game experience. Its like they say there is "in shape" and there is "in playing shape"

I dunno Frye is on the practice squad he may show some promise to activate him at the end of the year unless we are playing for something.

Im all for the best player available in the first round.

[Ole Miss Texan]

well we're gonna have to sooner or later, and there arent many RB's worth a 1st round pick this year, so its either OT or FS (Reggie Smith)

As of now McFadden and Stewart are the only two RB's I would consider us spending a 1st on. We have a shot at 1. There should be more LT's to choose from but I'm not sure which would be the best fit for us with our system(s). Reggie Smith would be a great choice too to convert to FS, imo. I think we'll def. draft a LT somewhere in the draft.

I doubt they take one in the first, since there so good at finding them in the later rounds.

I don't really understand your meaning behind this.
Chester Pitts-drafted 2nd round in 2002
Fred Weary- drafted 3rd round in 2002
Seth Wand- drafted 3rd round in 2003
Charles Spencer- drafted 3rd round in 2006
Eric Winston- drafted 3rd round in 2006
Brandon Frye- drafted 5th round in 2007
Kasey Studdard- drafted 6th round in 2007

As you see the vast majority is first day. And if we want a LT that is going to start and contribute next season...you better believe we need to select one on the first day. We really don't have much info on Frye, but Studdard has looked pretty decent in the limited time we've seen him play at Guard.

My point is, we really don't have any evidence that we will select a LT late in the draft and he will perform well. I suspect our talent evaluation is pretty good but to get an instant starter is asking too much. I for one don't want to wait on a late round guy to develop and have to watch Salaam another year.

I don't buy this 'well Denver never selects OL or RB's in the 1st rd'. For one they had an established team with a good OL so once that is built up, there really is no need to draft a 1st rd OL talent. Same goes for RB. There really were not many instances where a RB was any where close to being BPA. Terrell Davis was a late round pick...but Clinton Portis was a 2nd rounder.

I'm just of the thinking that if a LT or a RB is the BPA for us in the 1st round....we would take one of them. If its not...I hope we don't reach one..but the bottom line is we have too many needs still. And we don't have the luxury of already having good OL or RB to just select late rd rb and ol to have them develop for 3 years before getting thrown into the fire. The guys we draft are guys we expect to start right away...at least day 1. and we still need a lot of starters.

[Wolf123]

My point wasn't to address LT on the second day of the draft. I was saying that we don't need to take on in the first round. And as you can see were very good at picking OL in the 3rd round which is right where I want us to take one.

[l33z71]

Kubiak said that his future looks very good, but it is doubtful he'll make it back this year. I suspect they'll use these next three weeks to evaluate him in practice before deciding to put him on IR. He should be healthy going into next season, the real question is how he'll respond to an almost two year layoff from live action.

Yeah, thats what I meant--doubtful for this year, but thanks, I guess the way I wrote that it kinda led that he might never return.

[sleepwalker]

We need a center maybe too?

[triggernome]

To my knowledge, Charles Spencer is still on the PUP list. However, considering that Kubiak has all but confirmed that he won't be playing this year, shouldn't he go on IR? Wouldn't that free up a spot to bring somebody in, like Frye to take his place at T, or some free agent?

[HuttoKarl]

PUP or IR...either way it frees up a roster spot.

[Texanf@n]

To my knowledge, Charles Spencer is still on the PUP list. However, considering that Kubiak has all but confirmed that he won't be playing this year, shouldn't he go on IR? Wouldn't that free up a spot to bring somebody in, like Frye to take his place at T, or some free agent?

Spencer is listed as the 3rd string left tackle, behind Salaam and Jordon Black, but he is also listed on the PUP. It looks to me like this may not be a top priority to Kubiak.

Question, other than Jordon Black getting a penalty for not checking in as an eligible receiver last week (I think this happened but can not recall for certain), has he played much at all this year?

[sleepwalker]

It's going to be really tough not wanting to draft for the LT spot. Spencer not playing for 2 seasons has killed us.

Terrible luck.

[truckin texan]

Kubes has until wk 10 to place spencer on ir... He is using time to get the younger olinemen on the practice squad more reps to bring up the one who gets it... At least that is imo

[foozball]

havent seen anything on Spencer's rehab in a long while...anyone know if he's on track to returning next year?

[Wolverine]

Last i heard he should be good to go by training camp.

[zanth91]

I don't remember where I heard it but I thought he may have been good around this time but figured it almost wasn't worth him coming back now.

[LORK 88]

Last I heard Kubiak said that he will be good to go for next season. He kind of made it seem like the chance of him playing this season was slim and none. While it will be good to have him back, I know a bunch of fans don't even want to chance it and will be pushing for us to draft or sign a high talent LT.

[johndoe]

even if he was well enough to play this year i think its good that they are being smart about this and waiting untill next year to play. i envision him as our our leonard davis, a huge offensive lineman that can create holes for our RBs

[edo783]

IMO, if we don't cover our bet at LT we are stupid. There is no garantee that Spencer will make it back,much less at NFL starter LT capacity. The worst we would wind up with is a pair of LT starter caliber tackles. That is not a bad thing and at the very least we could trade one for a very high pick or a top level player or two in a couple of years. LT's that are starter caliber are worth a great deal to teams.

[Marcus]

IMO, if we don't cover our bet at LT we are stupid.

Yeah, an LT might be there when we pick, but if a RB or CB is there that rates higher than the LT at the time that you pick, then you take the better player.

[Zac Attack]

yup, best thing to happen to the line was to get rid of Carr. This year, they've given up 13 or 14 sacks. And that's the number the defense has. Pretty even. Shaub and Sage have had good protection!

[HomeGrownTexan]

I wouldn't go so far to say they've had "good protection", it's been better but there are still glaring holes. Salaam still gets abused by the upper echelon DEs in this league. Our decrease in sacks is because of better QB play, but we still need to add some beef up front.

[caddy]

I love it... this is the 6th year with out a good LT. Holy cow are we the only team who has their head in the sand. Watch the play fall apart when we play a winning team. Any one who has played or knows something about football knows was a key position this is.

[Clamp]

If we were to pick up another LT who actually panned out and was slotted as our starter by the time Spencer came back, and spencer turned out to be back to 100%, could we try moving either inside to gaurd the way the cowboys did with Leonard Davis? I played O-line in high school but the skill sets are much different in the NFL obviously so idk if such a move would work for anyone.

[foozball]

spencer played some guard back at pitt i believe

[Battle-Red]

If we were to pick up another LT who actually panned out and was slotted as our starter by the time Spencer came back, and spencer turned out to be back to 100%, could we try moving either inside to gaurd the way the cowboys did with Leonard Davis? I played O-line in high school but the skill sets are much different in the NFL obviously so idk if such a move would work for anyone.

I'm not bashing i'm just curious to know:
So wich guard would you replace the one whos been a solid player since the inception and is having a down year(that may or may not be attribited to being wedged between Flanigan and Salaam) or the one whos came into his own(the last 2 years) and with Winston have been excellent on the right side?

[Clamp]

I'm not bashing i'm just curious to know:
So wich guard would you replace the one whos been a solid player since the inception and is having a down year(that may or may not be attribited to being wedged between Flanigan and Salaam) or the one whos came into his own(the last 2 years) and with Winston have been excellent on the right side?

your right, Pitts has been one of the few reliable guys on the line for the last few years. And Weary has also come into his own this year. Still, competion is good and if Spencer were to beat out either at gaurd, just based on his play, would you really complain? Then we are left with a very sevicable back up to step in if any one goes down. Depth is never a bad thing. I say last the best player play, and if any one comes in and plays better than who we have playing there at the time, i say give them the job until some one takes it from them.

[foozball]

we could put spencer at RG and move Weary to C. people forget Weary was a top 3 C prospect when he was drafted

[Clamp]

now THAT sounds interesting. shifting the line around all over again now that they are starting to get some continuity makes me cringe a little bit, but if we were to get a good LT in the draft or free agency (and he was good enough to start over a healthy Spencer, assuming even MORE that spencer is coming back 100%, lol) then i would say having 5 relatively young and very talented guys in there would definitely make it worth while in my opinion.

Steven Q. Newguy | Pitts | Weary | Spencer | Winston

another thought that just came to mind is that many people commented that Winstons relatively short arms might make him more suitable as a guard. he has been playing well at tackle but since iv put us onto this line of thought i guess we could maybe put Spenccer t RT, Winston at RG, and Weary at center.

All just ''what if''s, but its in the spirit of improvement, right. :o

[ROUGHNECKS]

The whole thing is even with Spencer (and he will be starting next year) we would be starting a rookie being he only started a few games. If he is any where close to what he was before he got injuried than I would be happy and I believe that Coach Kubes will take a look at him before the draft to see were he is at. Salaam can not start next year he has filled in ok but it is time to move on just like it is time to move on from a few others like at CB and RB.

[South Texan]

Spencer's status is probably the lynch pin of the offseason strategy. IF he is going to be back at near 100% then we should have the luxury of looking for a RB and CB in the early rounds, and hope for a diamond in the ruff type tackle in round 4 or later or maybe a pickup in FA for depth.

Getting him back next year could well mean going even further in the playoffs.

[Welsh Texan]

I'm big on finding an improvement on Salaam in the free agency who will do a job IF Spencer can't come back next year and leaving Cap space/Picks open to go for a CB and a FS in the draft.

I think this is our best chance of improving the team all round this off season, it doesn't leave us relying on Spencer yet it also doesn't tie up money at a position where we may not need it as well.

I think if we go with that strategy then we have everything covered and can take a RB in the 4th and wait another season to take a top RB in the first at a time when we will have a 2nd rounder as well to fill out any requirements. Alternatively look to regain the 2nd rounder this year and add in RB to this years draft choice.

Whichever way it goes I really can see something building at the moment, and to look at all the injuries we've taken this year, D.Davis not making it despite saying he could, AJ missing 7 games, Schaub in and out recently, Spencer sat in the stands, and Dunta on IR, that makes 5-5 more than impressive and if Schaub and AJ continue in the same vein down the stretch i'm looking at a winning season if not a playoff birth already.

[ObsiWan]

I'm big on finding an improvement on Salaam in the free agency who will do a job IF Spencer can't come back next year and leaving Cap space/Picks open to go for a CB and a FS in the draft.

I think this is our best chance of improving the team all round this off season, it doesn't leave us relying on Spencer yet it also doesn't tie up money at a position where we may not need it as well.

I think if we go with that strategy then we have everything covered and can take a RB in the 4th and wait another season to take a top RB in the first at a time when we will have a 2nd rounder as well to fill out any requirements. Alternatively look to regain the 2nd rounder this year and add in RB to this years draft choice.

Whichever way it goes I really can see something building at the moment, and to look at all the injuries we've taken this year, D.Davis not making it despite saying he could, AJ missing 7 games, Schaub in and out recently, Spencer sat in the stands, and Dunta on IR, that makes 5-5 more than impressive and if Schaub and AJ continue in the same vein down the stretch i'm looking at a winning season if not a playoff birth already.

We tried that. Remember the Jordan Black experiment? No team is going to let a stud LT walk unless he's asking for astronomical money. I'd rather us take our chances with the draft.

[misterpc]

we could put spencer at RG and move Weary to C. people forget Weary was a top 3 C prospect when he was drafted

Weary's contract is up after this year. There are other free agents that need to be resigned which I would place as a higher priority above him (Clark, Kalu, Davis, Hutchins). If Weary can play C that might be a reason to resign him, although it would make sense to sign an actual C instead. Weary seems like the odd man out, especially if Kubiak is impressed with Studdard. Also there is a real possibility that Spencer will have to make his return as a G rather than LT. Im not sure Weary has a place on this team after this season.

Spencer CANNOT be relied upon as our LT for next season. No way. He has only played 3 games in the NFL, and that was before sustaining a career threatening injury which kept him on the sidelines for almost 2 years. It is beyond foolish to not take steps at securing that position. When Spencer returns, he should not have a starting spot open. He should compete for a spot in the lineup at OT or G. Personally Id like to see him at G because the severity of his injury makes me question if he has the quickness necessary to go up against DEs like Freeney. The draft is very deep at LT this year. I can count at least 4 OTs which would be well worth our 1st round pick. I want a LT with our first pick. A solid mid-level CB will be easy to pick up in free agency. We can get a running back in the middle rounds, also we should make a strong push to sign M. Turner. With our 3rd round pick we grab a safety. This way all the needs have been addressed.


Texans 2008 O-line
1st round pick - Pitts - McKinney - Spencer - Winston

If we can find an upgrade at C via free agency or day 2 of the draft that would be great. Otherwise this O-line looks pretty good to me, especially with Studdard and White as added depth. Spencer has the strength and size to be good as a RG.

[TCUtexan]

Im new to the board and read as much as I could before posting As I understand it He split his cartilage, they were wondering if it was going to grow back. It did but was unable to make opening day or the 8 week deadline(or whatever that was) So we sat him for the rest of the year.

So I have a couple of questions.

1. Is he lifting weights with the team? Is he doing reps or anything? It seems like he would be able to do alot of things if he were close/questionable/ETC. to play this year let alone by week 8? Can he run?

2. I read on here that some dont think he will be a LT afterwards. That he may have to plat RT or somewhere else on the line. Has anyone heard anything lately about this..Kube said anything?

Man that would be huge to have him back. I know he stays in good shape and keeps articles about him to motivate himself. Sounds like a good hard working guy.Thanks for the info.

[DiehardChris]

I have no idea what's up with him, but does anyone know why he was never added to the IR? He's still on the PUP list, and not on IR... yet clearly he's not going to play this year. Weird.

[Clamp]

Dude, you know more than i do, lol. just reading your statement before the question told me more than i have heard in the last 6 months!

[TCUtexan]

nothing guys?

[outofhnd]

They have kept pretty tight lipped about the situation. We should find out more after the season is over,

The thing that bugs me is this training staff puts more players on the shelf than any other in football.

[Carlos]

The thing that bugs me is this training staff puts more players on the shelf than any other in football.

I'm with you on that one. I don't know if it's possible to blame the trainers for players' injuries, because this is the NFL, but it does seem that the Texans have had consistently bad luck in that regard. It does make you wonder whether a better training staff would make a difference.

[outofhnd]

I'm with you on that one. I don't know if it's possible to blame the trainers for players' injuries, because this is the NFL, but it does seem that the Texans have had consistently bad luck in that regard. It does make you wonder whether a better training staff would make a difference.

Can we get Dr Red Duke? That dude was the bomb on Eyewitness news.

[AstrosCruz]

Can we get Dr Red Duke? That dude was the bomb on Eyewitness news.

That guy hit on my mom outside the Safeway at Kirby and Holcomb about 20 years ago.........

[SMC-22]

It seems to me as if it's not that big an issue for him to return,he just needs to get in game shape,however long that takes.It just makes me feel more confident that he will play again this year.I think our First round draft pick will be a LT,just because we can fill the RB in the Third round or in Free agency.Teams don't let go of franchise LT's or if they do ,during Free agency they will break the bank.

[texans83]

I hope Rick Smith does not plan the off season knowing that. We cant think Spencer will be back next year. Even if he does come back who knows if you will acually be able to hold up. Great if he does but if he doesnt we can itleast know we dont have to back track. It stinks that it happened to him but thats football and I do wish he comes back healthy and 100%

[kcwilson]

I hope Rick Smith does not plan the off season knowing that. We cant think Spencer will be back next year. Even if he does come back who knows if you will acually be able to hold up. Great if he does but if he doesnt we can itleast know we dont have to back track. It stinks that it happened to him but thats football and I do wish he comes back healthy and 100%

The team cannot afford to be DDW'd again.

[TheLBCoach]

It seems to me as if it's not that big an issue for him to return,he just needs to get in game shape,however long that takes.It just makes me feel more confident that he will play again this year.I think our First round draft pick will be a LT,just because we can fill the RB in the Third round or in Free agency.Teams don't let go of franchise LT's or if they do ,during Free agency they will break the bank.

I'm sure Tyrone Prothro still holds out hope that he'll one day play in the NFL after suffering his injury. That's great that Charles is confident he'll be ready to go, but I'm not waiting on the edge of my seat waiting for him to return and be a good player for us. Let's not forget that OG is a position of need for us as well. We can't just think to ourselves, "Spencer might move to Guard after his return..." and ignore the position. If we can draft a Guard that's more ready than Weary, Studdard, or Brisiel to effectively contribute, then we should.

[ib4texans]

The team cannot afford to be DDW'd again.


Amen to that brother!

[SMC-22]

If we draft a LT in the first,there wouldn't be a tackle position open to him,he would just be "quality" depth.If all goes right.

[DiehardChris]

jramos - there's been talk about moving him to guard if he isn't as agile or mobile as he once was, so there could be a place for him yet. The guy is SO HUGE and athletic that I assume they'll wait as long as it takes to get him on the field.

On Lance Z's blog, he unfortunately says somewhere that Spencer's rehab is still going very slowly... so it's still not a sure thing that he'll even be back next year. SIGH.

[crazyhorse]

I think it's great that Spencer wants to return. I for one hopes he is successful but the reality of the situation is that it is still a 50/50 proposition.
If the opportunity arises then we should draft the best lineman available. But if we don't draft a lineman or can't get one in the first round all is not lost. Rasheed Butler has been coming along and could be a very good right tackle, which then would let the Texans move Winston to the left side. That would still give us two young tackles with Salaam as the back up which is what he would be best at.

[South Texan]

Probably pretty safe to say if they haven't picked up a top FA Tackle or drafted an LT by round 3 that the front office thinks he will be back. I doubt they would take a chance if they didn't feel he would be back at close to 100%.
I have the the impression from the interview that Spencer really does expect to be back, mainly because he is talking about being in game shape rather than talking about needing to do more rehab on the knee.

[HydrOshocK]

I trust Kubiak's opinion and he genuinely looks enthusiastic about Spencer coming back. He's mentioned a few times that the prognosis has gotten way better for a possible return next year. Of course they'll be cautious and not count on it as a sure bet, but it looks like everyone's working to get him into some kind of football shape going into camp. Whether it be at G or T, we could certainly use him if he's able to go.

[HuttoKarl]

If we draft a LT in the first,there wouldn't be a tackle position open to him,he would just be "quality" depth.If all goes right.

IF all goes right. All rarely goes right.

[3andOUT]

It seems to me as if it's not that big an issue for him to return,he just needs to get in game shape,however long that takes.It just makes me feel more confident that he will play again this year.I think our First round draft pick will be a LT,just because we can fill the RB in the Third round or in Free agency.Teams don't let go of franchise LT's or if they do ,during Free agency they will break the bank.

Well if him returning is not that much of an issue, I would hate to see us go LT in the first round. Especially if we can trade out and pick up a 2

[dallas_texan]

Well if him returning is not that much of an issue, I would hate to see us go LT in the first round. Especially if we can trade out and pick up a 2

That will never happen. No coach these days is going to give up a 1st and 2nd for a 18th pick in the first unless some incredible player drops all the way there. I just don't see it. That would be nice though.

[HydrOshocK]

That will never happen. No coach these days is going to give up a 1st and 2nd for a 18th pick in the first unless some incredible player drops all the way there. I just don't see it. That would be nice though.

yeah but you can trade out of the first round and pick up those extra picks.....there will be tons of talent in the 2nd and 3rd rounds.

[Zac Attack]

I think any team will trade you a 2nd round pick for the 18th pick in the 1st round. If your lucky! :D

[moses77550]

Charles Spencer was activated off of the PuP list. Does this mean he is feeling good and ready to go?

NFL.com under transactions.

[El Tejano]

This means there is forward movement with his progress. Kubes said he will be there for OTAs working out like the rest of the team. Everyone pray he returns to form.

[Texanf@n]

Due to the severity of his injury, I am worried he may not have the explosivness he needs to play tackle any more. I hope this is not the case because I surely want to see him back on the O line.

[ROUGHNECKS]

I just hope he is spending as much time as possible with the team to get ready for next year I heard he looked a little heavy so he needs to be in their to lose that weight and get back in football shape my are fingers crossed.

[JMLOCKETT]

I am going to show my ignorance about Spencer. I know that he was supposed to be an allstar LT. However the season that he was used I worked everygame. So unfortunatly I wasnt able to really see him perform. Would somebody please give me some info on him so that I can get caught up on this player. I would really appreciate it.

[HydrOshocK]

http://www.houstontexans.com/team/player.asp?player_id=209

[foozball]

he got hurt. had to sit out for 2 years. he's trying to come back this season

[0ss0]

lol...really?

He only got one game in, but he looked really good. His 2nd game Dayne broke his leg.

So who know then or now. Pray he's a phenom, we need one.

[DiehardChris]

Pretty much everyone anointed him as the stud LT of the future - based on two games. He's just such a physical freak that even with all the injuries he's worth keeping around to see if he can turn into a dominant T or G.

[Wolf123]

Pretty much everyone anointed him as the stud LT of the future - based on two games. He's just such a physical freak that even with all the injuries he's worth keeping around to see if he can turn into a dominant T or G.

He also looked great during the preseason and kubiak and sherman were both singing his praises.

[JMLOCKETT]

lol...really?

He only got one game in, but he looked really good. His 2nd game Dayne broke his leg.

So who know then or now. Pray he's a phenom, we need one.

What I am concerned about is that he is really untested. I am not putting him down I am just trying to get an overall picture of this players abilities.

The dude is very big. I hope that he is able to return and make a difference.

[JMLOCKETT]

Where do you work - the moon?

I wished it was the moon I worked at that time at an automotive detail center that specialized in europian exotic sports cars. Being that I was working as a manager I was required to be "on duty" on Sundays

[TransplantTexan1]

I don't think you have to worry about the Texans putting too much faith in him coming back and being that anchor LT. I'm sure they're optimistic that he can rehab himself back into playing shape and compete for a starting job somewhere, but I doubt they've bet the farm that he'll definitely be "the man" on the OL for the next several years.

All that said, it's good to know that he's going to be able to work out with the team and head into training camp. Let's hope in the meantime that he gets rid of some of that excess weight that he's reportedly been carrying.

[South Texan]

I'm not sure that's really even an issue...I mean the dude is a monster. How can you tell by looking at someone as big as he is that he may be a bit overweight? Just sayin.

If he has his leg at 100% after the devastating injury he suffered, I don't think a couple of extra pounds is going to be a major problem to deal with.

[lrm87]

What I am concerned about is that he is really untested. I am not putting him down I am just trying to get an overall picture of this players abilities.

The dude is very big. I hope that he is able to return and make a difference.

I am interested to see what Gibbs does with Butler and Frye...possible LT's?

[Clamp]

When your that huge your body burns a ton of calories just to keep you going so all he really has to do is step up his workout regimen a bit, cut the portions down some or maybe just skip a meal every now and then and some of that weight will definitely fall off. If he has any self discipline (and to get to the NFL you have to) at all, im sure he can take care of it. Also it will take some of the strain off of his leg and just make it that much less likely to give him problems.

[Wolf6151]

Neocon, made a good point in the Dunta Robinson thread. Where's Charles Spencer? How's his rehab. going and does anyone know if he's working out? Hopefully he's doing something more than fighting Bigmac's and McDonalds...

[Neo]

Neocon, made a good point in the Dunta Robinson thread. Where's Charles Spencer? How's his rehab. going and does anyone know if he's working out? Hopefully he's doing something more than fighting Bigmac's and McDonalds...
Last I heard he was way out of shape.

[ObsiWan]

Neocon, made a good point in the Dunta Robinson thread. Where's Charles Spencer? How's his rehab. going and does anyone know if he's working out? Hopefully he's doing something more than fighting Bigmac's and McDonalds...

Kubiak touched on that in his combine presser:
http://www.houstontexans.com/news/Story.asp?story_id=4193

(on if tackle Charles Spencerhttp://assets.houstontexans.com/images/relatedicon.gif (http://www.houstontexans.com/news/Story.asp?story_id=4193#) will be healthy next season) “I'll put it this way, Charles is ready to go back to work. He's doing well. When we start the offseason program, he'll be right in there with the football team. When we get to OTA’s, he will be cut loose to go play. I think time will tell when he goes out there, performs as a player, he's in drills, doing football stuff again as compared to doing just rehab. We'll see how it responds. I think the jury is still out, but he's getting close.”
(on if Spencer will stay at left tackle) “I sure hope so. We'll see how he responds.”

[BornOrange]

Weight is going to be an issue for any lineman with a leg injury, especially someone who has been out for almost two entire years. Once he is able to run full speed he will start to lose pounds. Will he be able to get back down to his 2006 weight before the season? Perhaps not. Just like he will probably be a little rusty this season, he will probably be a little heavy this season, but should be 100% in all ways for the 2009 season.

[GT]

Oh man, I bet we're going to get some good Big Mac, and hotdog jokes this season!:DDude I can't think of anyone who would make jokes about Mickey D's and certain players!!!!:rolleyes:

[Wolf6151]

How long of a contract did he sign with the Texans? If we have to wait til 2009 to see any serious play from this guy then is he worth keeping around? How much guaranteed money does he have coming and what would it cost us to buy him out and move on?

[Neo]

He was a 3rd round pick so not much in the way of a contract.

http://www.houstonprofootball.com/cap.html

[Wolf123]

I wouldn't take any fans word on what type of shape his in, b/c he was a big boy before and most big OL look like there out of shape.

[ObsiWan]

I wouldn't take any fans word on what type of shape his in, b/c he was a big boy before and most big OL look like there out of shape.

and if any of you are expecting Spencer to come back "cut" like Will Demps or Andre Johnson....
...let's just say you'll be disappointed
:)

I'll be happy if he comes back looking like T.J. (who was in reasonable shape this past year)

[GT]

and if any of you are expecting Spencer to come back "cut" like Will Demps or Andre Johnson....
...let's just say you'll be disappointed
:)

I'll be happy if he comes back looking like T.J. (who was in reasonable shape this past year)Lol no doubt Spencers rehab included walking to Mickey D's 20 times a day.:D

[crazyhorse]

Spencer got a three year deal. This is his option year. He has already received all the up front money he is going to get. His salary would be the league minimum for a third year player. I think OTA's will determine a great deal about his future. If he can't go at tackle they might look at him at guard. That of course opens the whole tackle issue discusssion again but it's probably better to wait and see.
Myself I hope he can come back! Two good young tackles like him and Winston would assist the offense in being successful.

[infantrycak]

Spencer got a three year deal. This is his option year.

Spencer signed a 4 year deal, no option years, never going to be an RFA.

[Neo]

Spencer signed a 4 year deal, no option years, never going to be an RFA.According to Rotoworld he signed for 4 years 2.2 million and will be a RFA in 2010.

http://www.rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/player_contract.aspx?sport=Nfl&id=3709

Also to be a UFA you have to have 5 or more years of NFL service according to this site: www.askthecommish.com/freeagency/

What source you have that says he will never be an RFA?

[outofhnd]

he becomes a UFA if Houston doesn't attach the tender to him.

Jerome Mathis was an RFA this year and because houston did not put a tender on him that makes him a UFA.

[Neo]

he becomes a UFA if Houston doesn't attach the tender to him.

Jerome Mathis was an RFA this year and because houston did not put a tender on him that makes him a UFA.He said that he would never be a RFA. That is what i want to know about. I posted a link explaining already explaining what you just said. ;)

[Coach]

spencer hopefully will be able to come back this year...i seriously doubt he'll be able to take on the role of LT but possibly RG...he could be a dominant RG...we could run behind him all game long

[infantrycak]

Also to be a UFA you have to have 5 or more years of NFL service according to this site: www.askthecommish.com/freeagency/ (http://www.askthecommish.com/freeagency/)

What source you have that says he will never be an RFA?

Ask the commish is wrong.

http://football.about.com/od/football101/g/restrictedFA.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Restricted_free_agent

RFA (Restricted free agent)A player who has completed three accrued seasons and whose contract has expired.From: http://www.nfl.com/freeagency near bottom.

He said that he would never be a RFA. That is what i want to know about. I posted a link explaining already explaining what you just said. ;)

It is exactly 3 accrued seasons so in the normal course, a player who plays out his 4 year contract will be an UFA. From the same nfl.com page:

UFA (Unrestricted free agent)A player who has completed four or more accrued seasons and whose contract has expired.From the horse's mouth on accrued seasons, etc.

The CBA:


Accrued Seasons – An Accrued Season is a season during which a player has been on full pay status (Active, Inactive or Injured Reserve List) for six (6) or more regular season games. However, a player who is on the Exempt Commissioner Permission List, the Reserve Physically Unable to Perform/Non Football Injury List, or the Practice Squad for any of the six (6) qualifying games will not earn an Accrued Season regardless of his pay status.
Earning an Accrued Season entitles a player to advance through the free agency system which governs a player’s negotiating rights once his contract has expired. In a capped year, a player with four (4) or more Accrued Seasons becomes an Unrestricted Free Agent once his contract expires (unless he is designated a Franchise or Transition player – see March 2008 Alert; p. 96). A player with three (3) but less than four (4) Accrued Seasons when his contract expires becomes a Restricted Free Agent.



http://www.nflpa.org/CBA/Credited_Accrued.aspx

[foozball]

Wasn't it you Wolfie that said he looked out of shape at some Reliant tour? I can't remember. I'm not so sure because I wasn't there, but how can you tell someone as big as that freak is actually looking a bit large? Was his belly goin' all crazy when he walked?

twas i that saw the beast. let me put it this way...he was wearing a big baggy t-shirt and i could still see his belly sticking out. trust me, he was out of shape.

[Neo]

It is exactly 3 accrued seasons so in the normal course, a player who plays out his 4 year contract will be an UFA. From the same nfl.com page:

From the horse's mouth on accrued seasons, etc.

The CBA:





http://www.nflpa.org/CBA/Credited_Accrued.aspx
Thanks that is what I was looking for.

[infantrycak]

twas i that saw the beast. let me put it this way...he was wearing a big baggy t-shirt and i could still see his belly sticking out. trust me, he was out of shape.

So that is your definition of out of shape for NFL linemen?--c'mon the trench boys rarely don't have a belly (DE's aside)--Sapp, Wilfork, Haynesworth, or more close to home McKinney, Pitts, TJ, Okoye. The big boys are...big boys. They need to be strong, not svelte.

[HydrOshocK]

lol, no kidding. I can understand if the guy got winded walking back from the snack machine with a Twinkie hanging out of his mouth but being fat is usually a requirement for linemen isn't it? ;)

[Nbkan]

lol, no kidding. I can understand if the guy got winded walking back from the snack machine with a Twinkie hanging out of his mouth but being fat is usually a requirement for linemen isn't it? ;)

lol...winded walking back from the snack machine with a Twinkie...

Hydro you made my Saturday

[HydrOshocK]

lol...winded walking back from the snack machine with a Twinkie...

Hydro you made my Saturday

LOL...well you know how it is. No offense to overweight people but some dudes will work up a sweat and get all out of breath just from walking back and forth to the bathroom. I doubt Spencer's that kind of out of shape. ;)

[edo783]

being fat is usually a requirement for linemen isn't it? ;)

Sure used to be, but these days these guys are MUCH better conditioned. No one will ever mistake then for ballarenias (sp), but the days of the big gut hanging over the belt are pretty much gone. Not totally, but a bunch less than it used to be, there is still some bulk and usually a few bricks in the trunk, but not obese really.

[A/C Guy]

Has anyone heard anything about Charles Spencer, does he fit in with the new o-line scheme (zone blocking).

Is he Alex Gibbs type of guy??

[foozball]

not right now...he has to get his weight down...even then, he'd probably be a better fit at guard

[fdknuckles]

I always thought a LTs job was strickly to protct the QB. How does it differ in ZBS? I always considered him a mauler...you know fall forward and eat the D.

[zanth91]

I always thought a LTs job was strickly to protct the QB. How does it differ in ZBS? I always considered him a mauler...you know fall forward and eat the D.

Well...if we happened to run TO the left, we may need him to run block. :p

[rush2112mn]

I am not worried about his weight...I am more worried about if he can play or not.....

[Wolf6151]

Charles Spencer is a huge ? on this team. How many of you honestly expect that he'll make the team or get cut in training camp. Even if he brings his weight down will he be in good enough condition and athletic enough to play/start anywhere on the line or will he be an overpaid backup? If he gets cut in training camp, then why were we holding onto him the last few years waiting on a miraculous come back? Hopefully the offseason workouts will tell us something.

[Clamp]

no one will really know for sure how his leg will hold up once the hitting starts. iif the leg can take the pressure that has to be applied to it while holding a block, and it can hold up when that pressure is sustained over the length of a drive and then a game. The leg is issue #1 on the list. if that doesnt hold up then his weight matters about as much as the fact that i was right in the fight i had with my girlfriend yesterday. And if the leg can take the stress and his weight is an issue then, well im sure the coaches can find a way to get him in shape. especially with an old school hard @$$ like gibbs as his coach.

[South Texan]

If they go LT in round 1 of the draft, they probably have real questions about him making it all the way back to his old form. In the few interviews they have had with him, he seemed really determined, I really hope he makes it. He looked very promising in those first 2 games.

[TransplantTexan1]

Right now, going LT would be a wise move even if Spencer is looking pretty good with regard to his knee and is in reasonable shape. Spencer doesn't have much in the way of experience and Salaam is yet another year older. Stockpiling talent at a position of concern seems wise to me.

[edo783]

Stockpiling talent at a position of concern seems wise to me.

Yup, the worst thing you windup with is a starting LT via the draft. On the upside best case, you have two guys who are good and fighting to start at LT and the loser winds up being a top level guard or LT backup. Not a bad thing IMO. I have a feeling that Spencer will be back, probably play some guard for us this year and may work into a tackle spot in 09 or may just be a guard for the rest of his carreer.

[Clamp]

There have been several new vids on the main page recently. near the beginning of one, you could see Spencer and another player jogging/running in the background. The man was huge. i know he has always been big and everything but he was starting to resemble Reuben Studdard. And i could not help but notice the prominence of the man boobs that were bouncing under the shirt.

My point really here is that i hope he can buckle down and get back into shape before too long. Exercising as much as one does while playing football means that you can eat alot more than you could if you just lift weights or have some kind of basic regimen. I have a feeling that he just didnt focus so much on his physique while in rehab, but rather focused on the rehab itself. In another video he was talking about how being in 'football shape' was different than just working out. I find it encouraging that he recognizes the difference and I just hope that he has the mental discipline he talks about needing to come back. I wish him the best of luck and hope every doubter is proven wrong.

[zanth91]

There have been several new vids on the main page recently. near the beginning of one, you could see Spencer and another player jogging/running in the background. The man was huge. i know he has always been big and everything but he was starting to resemble Reuben Studdard. And i could not help but notice the prominence of the man boobs that were bouncing under the shirt.

My point really here is that i hope he can buckle down and get back into shape before too long. Exercising as much as one does while playing football means that you can eat alot more than you could if you just lift weights or have some kind of basic regimen. I have a feeling that he just didnt focus so much on his physique while in rehab, but rather focused on the rehab itself. In another video he was talking about how being in 'football shape' was different than just working out. I find it encouraging that he recognizes the difference and I just hope that he has the mental discipline he talks about needing to come back. I wish him the best of luck and hope every doubter is proven wrong.

Hahaha you're funny! :p No that was funny...

I'm in love with Spencer after that video. He thinks like a true winner, almost the same as Dunta right now. :D

[SAMURAITEXAN]

Spencer, we need you!

Go Texans!!

[NBT]

So Spencer is running with Dunta now. He says there is no swelling in the knee, so that is good. Get into playing shape big guy, and let's see if you can still cut it.

My best scenario on this situation is that Spencer comes back to full strength, gives Pitts a lot of competition for OLG, and backs up the rookie OLT (Chris Williams).

[Clamp]

So Spencer is running with Dunta now. He says there is no swelling in the knee, so that is good. Get into playing shape big guy, and let's see if you can still cut it.

My best scenario on this situation is that Spencer comes back to full strength, gives Pitts a lot of competition for OLG, and backs up the rookie OLT (Chris Williams).

I could definitely live with that. our line would quickly become one of the strongest units if we drafted a player like Chris Williams and got Spencer in at one of the gaurds with Pitts at the other. Meyers at Center. This is assuming alot (spencer healthy/being a good fit in the system at guard and so on), but with this line we might be set for years.

LT- C. Williams
LG- Pitts
C- Meyers
RG- Spencer
RT- Winston

on another note, if we were to draft elsewhere than O-line then this might be a possibility if Spencer can come back at full strength and ability.

LT- Spencer
LG- Pitts/Meyers
C- Eslinger
RG- Meyers/Pitts
RT- Winston

I have high hopes for Eslinger, though it will be much tougher to get a chance at game time with meyers on the roster. Maybe he can be a swing guy and filling at guard if need be. But, if he were to able to beat Meyers for the starting spot at center, then Meyers would be an upgrade over anyone we have at guard currently except MAYBE Pitts.

[infantrycak]

My best scenario on this situation is that Spencer comes back to full strength, gives Pitts a lot of competition for OLG, and backs up the rookie OLT (Chris Williams).

We have no real idea who RG is and you want him to give Pitts competition at LG? If he can do that, he can start at RG.

[edo783]

If he can do that, he can start at RG.

If Spencer comes back well enough to start at RG, that right side of the line will be killer in the run with with Spence and T-Rex grading the road. That would be a boatload of beef coming around the corner.

[westtexastexan]

I think after the DD and AG fiascos over the past two years, Kubes is going to have a short fuse with Spencer (and other injured players). Looks like he hasn't kept the weight off, to allow the knee to heal properly. That gives me an inkling as to his dedication to return to his old self.

Let's face it , he hasn't had a snap in two years, how do you think he's going to respond/react to the guys who have been playing the last two years? He looked good against Mario when they were both rookies in TC, but I think Mario would blow right by him today. (because we've all seen the improvement in MW).

With all the big bodies they have brought in, I doubt that the coaching staff seriously considers Spencer coming back at all, let alone starting.

[infantrycak]

I doubt that the coaching staff seriously considers Spencer coming back at all, let alone starting.

They didn't pay him the last two years with no expectation he could come back.

[NBT]

We have no real idea who RG is and you want him to give Pitts competition at LG? If he can do that, he can start at RG.

NO...I wanted Spencer (If the leg is healthy) to give OLG Pitts and the (?) rookie OLT competition. My unsaid thought was if he could play OLG, he could just as well play ORG, or for that matter back up ORT.

[HJam72]

I think after the DD and AG fiascos over the past two years, Kubes is going to have a short fuse with Spencer (and other injured players). Looks like he hasn't kept the weight off, to allow the knee to heal properly. That gives me an inkling as to his dedication to return to his old self.

Let's face it , he hasn't had a snap in two years, how do you think he's going to respond/react to the guys who have been playing the last two years? He looked good against Mario when they were both rookies in TC, but I think Mario would blow right by him today. (because we've all seen the improvement in MW).

With all the big bodies they have brought in, I doubt that the coaching staff seriously considers Spencer coming back at all, let alone starting.

Maybe he can't keep the weight off until he starts actually practicing full bore. It takes a lot of effort for some of those big guys to burn fat. Just doing all that he could so far might not be enough to look good.

[dbruder44]

Spencer could easily drop 50 pounds of fat between now and Opening day, the staff will start leaning him out as he can really start hitting it.

[outofhnd]

No one knows for sure

[Clamp]

Maybe he can't keep the weight off until he starts actually practicing full bore. It takes a lot of effort for some of those big guys to burn fat. Just doing all that he could so far might not be enough to look good.

That is a good point. Not to mention that he hasnt been able to do much physical activity. He is lifting but that alone isnt enough to burn off all of the calories a man his size will take in. I agree that just getting on te field and going though the drills will get the process started. I have been watching what i have been eaating and started working out again (which i havent been doing for a couple of years, lol) and in about 2 months i have dropped 30 lbs, from 266 to 236, just because i had been doing nothing and started doing alot and eating salads and chicken sandwiches for every meal. Thats it. Now say he is at about 365 or so right now, i will say that he will be down to 320/325 or so by the end of May. That is somewhere around the weight he was when we drafted him, maybe a little more or a little less. He will have the strength coach, trainers, and probably a dietitian of some kind working with him. He will drop the weight and that will make him quicker and take some of the strain off of the leg.

[TCUtexan]

What is the status on spencer? will he be full speed tomorrow?

[aj.]

The article in the chronic this morning said that Spencer would be participating in individual drills but not team drills because Kubiak doesn't want anyone around his leg.

Last week at the luncheon, Kubiak said that Spencer was doing great and the only question remaining was whether they would be moving him inside to G.

Obviously they are still being cautious and while he's done everything he can in the weight room to strengthen the leg, I don't think they really know how his leg will hold up until it sees football stress.

[NBT]

....And they won't expose Spencer's leg to hitting until TC opens the last of July.

[TransplantTexan1]

That makes sense. No need to rush Chuck two months too early. Let him build up a bit more strength and flexibility in that leg before you put it through more stressful situations.

[SuperstarII]

LOL...well you know how it is. No offense to overweight people but some dudes will work up a sweat and get all out of breath just from walking back and forth to the bathroom. I doubt Spencer's that kind of out of shape. ;)

Lucky for me I am not one of those guys that sweat just by walking a few feet. The only time i sweat is at the gym.

[jppaul]

They have an article on ESPN about Spencer:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=3389248

[edo783]

The real good news in the artical IMO about the injury, is that the doctors report the cartilage is growing back. That was a big concern.

[ObsiWan]

I think the best part of the article was Spencer's attitude. He wants his old job back


"This is huge, because I went from a starting role to not playing to playing behind guys right now," Spencer said. "I've got to work hard to get back in the starting lineup. I can get in my stance, I can explode. I'm looking forward to contributing."
If it doesn't work out at left tackle, Spencer said he'd be willing to play either guard spot. After two seasons impatiently watching from the sideline, he just wants to play again.


I think in the post-workout interviews he said something like, "I can't sit on no bench"

[TransplantTexan1]

I think the best part of the article was Spencer's attitude. He wants his old job back



I think in the post-workout interviews he said something like, "I can't sit on no bench"


That's my new signature!!

[Jwwillis1]

1st of all I started reading this thread at the beginning, not realizing how old it was. The 2nd post said, "Spencer is being placed on the IR". I just about ******* my pants. Now that im back in '08-- I am fired up about the potential depth the Texans FINALLY have at LT and the O-Line in general.

I will be praying to the HEALTH GODS every night starting tonight. Perhaps I can ask a priest to write me a Texans Health prayer.

[GT]

LMAO...Dude...what am I? Some kind of Homer?I have never accussed you of being a homer.....wait...well maybe a time or two homer!!!!!:p

[D Frank]

kub was worried about how spencer knee swells.....if it idnt swell then like kube said, thats a big start, anyone know if it swelled?

[NBT]

I'm with you on that one. I don't know if it's possible to blame the trainers for players' injuries, because this is the NFL, but it does seem that the Texans have had consistently bad luck in that regard. It does make you wonder whether a better training staff would make a difference.

The coaches hav been trying to mold a nothing team into something pretty special. To do that you have to put pressure on to see who wants it and who are just hangers on. In a fluid system like that injuries do occur. It is a weeding out process. Survival of the fittest, and a championship football team. That, after all, is what we all are striving for. So relax and enjoy the growth.