Chaz Whitehurst No Longer A Bolt

A.J. Smith got it dun again today, trading third-string QB Charlie Whitehurst to the Seahawks in exchange for the 'Hawks' 2011 third-round draft pick. The trade also included a swap of the teams' second round picks in this year's draft, with the Bolts moving up 20 spots to the 40th pick in the second round.

That's a nice haul for a third-string QB.

As has been reported, this is likely a win for all parties involved. The Bolts get some return for a player who likely was never going to see the field. The Seahawks get a quality backup and potential starter in the well-regarded Whitehurst. And, perhaps most of all, Charlie gets some nice caysh and a very good shot at legit playing time with the oft-injured Matt Hasselback the only thing in his way.

Of course the Bolts now have the difficult task of finding someone to replace Charlie as the handsome, rakish third-string QB that never gets his uniform dirty and looks good in a beard and a headset.

Here's hoping its not Tim Tebow.

A Few Old Friends Are Back After A Long Absence

LT, Vincent and the boys are back tonight in the first preseason game of the season, seven months since that fateful day on the frozen fields of the Burgh.

It's been far too long.

A few things to watch for tonight against the Seahawks:

- how will the first team defense look in passing situations, i.e. is the pass rush back and can the LBs cover tight ends;

- the running of Michael Bennett, Gartrell Johnson and Jacob Hester;

- will Buster Davis be a factor; and

- will Kevin Ellison make a move to replace Clinton Hart at starting safety.

Unfortunately I won't be tuning in live and will have to rely on postgame reports. It's a shame but it can't be avoided.

Let's get this season started.