The Roster Equation: Depth or Special Teams Demons

[Schneed10]

Thinking about Ade Jimoh and his impending free agency, I started to wonder whether Gibbs' preference for players who make an impact on special teams hurt the team in any way this season.

We all know Ade is virtually worthless in pass coverage or even in run support. But Gibbs has kept him around because he comes up with huge hits on punt coverage, and downs lots of punts pinning the opponent deep in their own territory.

But this season, when Prioleau and Springs were hurt, and Carlos Rogers and Kenny Wright and Adam Archuleta were stinking up the joint, did our lack of depth in the secondary hurt us more than the Ade helped us on special teams?

Are we better off with a 4th CB who can cover well, but can't play teams worth a lick? Or are we better off with the Ade, a guy who can't cover at all but who can kick ass on special teams? This is an analysis that should apply to all positions, like LB and Khary Campbell in particular.

I know there is affection for The Ade. But the depth problem did bite us this season. If Springs and Prioleau weren't hurt this season, it wouldn't have been an issue. But the fact is they were hurt, and you just don't know when your guys are going to get hurt next.

How should the Skins handle this? Special teams demons? Or depth? Which is more important?