A.D.
According to early reports, negotiations between Pro Bowl end/outside linebacker Adalius Thomas have not gone well and the two sides are far apart as far as the total value of any package. The Ravens have mentioned the F-word (franchise player) to Thomas as a very possible alternative.
Also, despite some reports, Thomas may not draw as much interest as some have indicated if he hit the open market. Thomas has to play for a team with a certain style. He can't put his hand in the dirt and become a full-time defensive end, and he can't play strongside linebacker full time taking on tight ends. He has to find the team with the right fit.
Mike Preston has been with The Baltimore Sun since 1983. Prior to becoming a columnist in 2000, he covered the Ravens for four years. Preston is a native of Essex and a graduate of Towson State University, where he played football. 
Jamison Hensley covers the Ravens for The Baltimore Sun. 
Comments
If the Ravens elect to use the franchise tag on Adalius Thomas, will his contract be based on the compensation for the league's top linebackers or some hybrid structure given his unique use in their system? I would imagine this is one of this issues with the separation in the contract negotiations.
Posted by: Jay | January 24, 2007 11:05 PM
It may be many things, but money isn't everything. Adalius would be better off, and I think happier, staying a Raven. A substantial pay raise is in the offing no matter what. But obscurity awaits him with any other team. No Raven of note who ever left the team was the better for it. A word to the wise A.D.: Money alone never brings happiness.
Posted by: gordon colston | January 25, 2007 2:15 AM
If I were Ozzie Newsome I'd watchout for Soctt Pioli, Bill Belichek and the rest of the New England front office. They have a lot of cap room and you know Belichek loves players who can play multiple positions. AD would be a great fit there.
Posted by: Patrick | January 25, 2007 9:29 AM
Marvin Lewis sure turned out to be a low life as a leader at Cincy. Good coach, terrible person. Billick was just as bad. Henry, Lewis, Lewis etc. etc. They turn their heads better then Linda Blair.
Posted by: herbie | January 25, 2007 12:47 PM
Even though the Ravens aren't foolish enough to let Adalius Thomas slip away, he'd be an excellent fit with the Patriots!
Posted by: Bacon | January 25, 2007 1:19 PM