I agree about the severity of Woody's injury and have serious concerns about Woody returning to his former self. I think it's fair to say the coaches have, as well, based on recruiting and we will see a QB battle unfold during spring ball and camp. It looked like it might have been a tendonitis type of injury, which can be really tough. You can feel better one day and then be in crippling pain the next, and yes, weather can make it feel significantly worse. Hopefully he is getting the treatment he needs to get better.
To me the question marks are:
New punter? Gasser was OK but lacked distance and hang time
New Kicker? O'Leary did alright with FGs after his nerves settled, but lacked leg on KO's.
OL run blocking? - I am actually somewhat hopeful on this as they gained a ton of experience and showed some signs of improvement. We stayed fairly healthy at OL and the guys will be another year stronger. Council, Brown, Jordan, and Neely will help us build depth at this position, much needed.
We have plenty of speed with or without Ball with Edwards and Morgan. Ball just gives us power, plus speed.
DL - no commentary needed. We need help. 1-2 transfers could help stop the bleed if they are the right ones. I hope the returners are seeing tackling drills in their dreams. Let's see if Camara, Jest, or Moore can make big strides in the off-season. Moore has been injury prone.
TE/FB role - this position was constantly in question due to injuries this year. MTB did a good job when he was healthy, but he not healthy for a good chunk of the season. Newman Williams has also been injury prone, limiting his ability to make an impact. MTB has one more year left, I believe. He could be a big impact player if healthy all year. MTB might also be able to provide some leadership if we are looking at a new QB next season.
Where we will building on existing strength:
Defensive Secondary - I feel like we are excellent in this area
Gilbert at LB
WRs
RBs
I am also expecting Alvin Davis and Shawn Featherstone to continue building upon on the flashes of greatness we saw emerging in 2016.