The AFC North will play a big role in the first round. That's according to ESPN Insider Todd McShay, who listed the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals among the five teams who could shake up the opening round of the NFL draft.
The Browns are sitting with the fourth overall pick, which is behind the Indianapolis Colts (who are expected to take Andrew Luck) and two teams who won't be drafting quarterbacks in the top 5 (the St. Louis Rams and Minnesota Vikings). If there are no trades, Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III would fall to the Browns.
The problem is, quarterback-hungry teams like the Washington Redskins, Miami Dolphins and Seattle Seahawks could all leapfrog the Browns by trading with either the Rams or the Vikings. How determined are the Browns to get RG3? Would they trade up to make sure they get the Heisman Trophy winner?
McShay also makes a case for the Bengals, who own two first-round picks, to move up from the 17th overall spot and move down from No. 21. Cincinnati, which needs a starting running back, could package a second-round pick to jump up and get Alabama's Trent Richardson if he falls toward the bottom of the top 10. The Bengals then could dangle the No. 21 pick to teams wanting to move back into the first round for a quarterback like Texas A&M's Ryan Tannehill and gain extra picks.
The Browns are sitting with the fourth overall pick, which is behind the Indianapolis Colts (who are expected to take Andrew Luck) and two teams who won't be drafting quarterbacks in the top 5 (the St. Louis Rams and Minnesota Vikings). If there are no trades, Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III would fall to the Browns.
The problem is, quarterback-hungry teams like the Washington Redskins, Miami Dolphins and Seattle Seahawks could all leapfrog the Browns by trading with either the Rams or the Vikings. How determined are the Browns to get RG3? Would they trade up to make sure they get the Heisman Trophy winner?
McShay also makes a case for the Bengals, who own two first-round picks, to move up from the 17th overall spot and move down from No. 21. Cincinnati, which needs a starting running back, could package a second-round pick to jump up and get Alabama's Trent Richardson if he falls toward the bottom of the top 10. The Bengals then could dangle the No. 21 pick to teams wanting to move back into the first round for a quarterback like Texas A&M's Ryan Tannehill and gain extra picks.
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Unrestricted (13): RB Ray Rice, LB Brendon Ayanbadejo, C Matt Birk, G Ben Grubbs, G-C Andre Gurode, LB Jarret Johnson, LB Edgar Jones, LB Jameel McClain, NT Brandon McKinney, S Haruki Nakamura, DE Cory Redding, TE Kris Wilson and SS Tom Zbikowski.
Restricted (4): CB Lardarius Webb, CB Cary Williams, LB Dannell Ellerbe and RB Matt Lawrence
Need to stay: Rice isn't going anywhere. The Ravens will use the franchise tag on him if they can't strike a long-term deal. The Ravens have spent years developing McClain, so they would like to keep him. But Baltimore can replace him with Ellerbe or a top draft pick if McClain gets a better offer elsewhere. Redding increased his chances of staying with a strong season, but the Ravens have younger players ready to take his spot. The Ravens are expected to put a first-round tender on Webb, a restricted free agent, to make sure he remains with the team.
Likely to go: It's hard to imagine that the Ravens could pay another big-money deal to Grubbs after signing the team's other Pro Bowl guard, Marshal Yanda, to a five-year, $32.5 million deal, a year ago. There's talk that the Ravens could franchise Grubbs if they could first sign Rice. It seems like the odds are against the Ravens keeping Grubbs. The Ravens would prefer to keep Johnson (especially after Sergio Kindle hasn't panned out), and he's enjoys playing in Baltimore. But Johnson could be lured elsewhere by two of his former coordinators, Colts head coach Chuck Pagano and Jets head coach Rex Ryan. There's also a question at center, where starter Matt Birk is contemplating retirement and backup Gurode is a free agent.
Unrestricted (13): RB Ray Rice, LB Brendon Ayanbadejo, C Matt Birk, G Ben Grubbs, G-C Andre Gurode, LB Jarret Johnson, LB Edgar Jones, LB Jameel McClain, NT Brandon McKinney, S Haruki Nakamura, DE Cory Redding, TE Kris Wilson and SS Tom Zbikowski.
Restricted (4): CB Lardarius Webb, CB Cary Williams, LB Dannell Ellerbe and RB Matt Lawrence
Need to stay: Rice isn't going anywhere. The Ravens will use the franchise tag on him if they can't strike a long-term deal. The Ravens have spent years developing McClain, so they would like to keep him. But Baltimore can replace him with Ellerbe or a top draft pick if McClain gets a better offer elsewhere. Redding increased his chances of staying with a strong season, but the Ravens have younger players ready to take his spot. The Ravens are expected to put a first-round tender on Webb, a restricted free agent, to make sure he remains with the team.
Likely to go: It's hard to imagine that the Ravens could pay another big-money deal to Grubbs after signing the team's other Pro Bowl guard, Marshal Yanda, to a five-year, $32.5 million deal, a year ago. There's talk that the Ravens could franchise Grubbs if they could first sign Rice. It seems like the odds are against the Ravens keeping Grubbs. The Ravens would prefer to keep Johnson (especially after Sergio Kindle hasn't panned out), and he's enjoys playing in Baltimore. But Johnson could be lured elsewhere by two of his former coordinators, Colts head coach Chuck Pagano and Jets head coach Rex Ryan. There's also a question at center, where starter Matt Birk is contemplating retirement and backup Gurode is a free agent.
Every morning, grab a cup of coffee and get your AFC North wake-up call here:
The Steelers released cornerback Bryant McFadden and special teams player Arnaz Battle, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
These moves freed up $3.5 million in salary-cap room. McFadden played six of his seven NFL seasons for the Steelers, and Battle joined Pittsburgh in 2010.
Pittsburgh officially announced the signing of safety Myron Rolle, who was a 2008 Rhodes Scholar. He had been on the Tennessee Titans practice squad in 2010 and in their training camp last summer.
Meanwhile, the St. Louis Rams requested permission to speak to Steelers director of administration Omar Khan for their general manager position, sources told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Khan, the team's salary-cap manager and chief contract negotiator, has been with the Steelers since 2000. He was a finalist in the Seattle Seahawks' general manager search two years ago.
BENGALS: The Bengals dropped to 10th in the AFC this season with 22 takeaways. Their 10 interceptions were the fewest in coach Marvin Lewis' nine seasons in Cincinnati. "If there’s one thing we have to get … figure out a way to create more. Teams that create the most turnovers play in this game," Lewis told the team's website while at the Super Bowl. "More recently we have declined [in interceptions] and we have to find out why. We play more man concepts. That is part of it. We started very good and then we hit a lull. You have to look at that but conceptually that’s the difference." Hensley's slant: That was the biggest season-long weakness for a defense that consistently overachieved. How important are turnovers? Like Lewis said, you just need to look at the two teams who played in the Super Bowl. New England led the AFC with 34 takeaways, and the New York Giants were fourth in the NFC with 31.
BROWNS: Quarterback Colt McCoy was medically cleared from a head injury that sidelined him for the final three games last year, team president Mike Holmgren told ESPN 850 WKNR-AM in Cleveland (via the Akron Beacon Journal). "He passed all his tests and he’s feeling fine," Holmgren said. "He has no residual effects from the play. I know no one will work harder this off season than Colt McCoy. So I’m happy we got through all that and he’s fine and he appears to be.” Hensley's slant: Now, the only question that remains at quarterback is who will be competing against McCoy for the starting job. At this point, it would be a letdown if the Browns failed to draft Baylor's Robert Griffin III or sign Matt Flynn in free agency.
RAVENS: The team's website speculated that offensive tackle Jah Reid might shift to left guard if Ben Grubbs leaves in free agency. Reid, a third-round pick from a year ago, was drafted to be the team's future right tackle. "The thing that Steve [Bisciotti, team owner] pushed John [Harbaugh] and I the last couple of years is, ‘Don’t be afraid to play young players,’” general manager Ozzie Newsome said when asked about the potential position change. “We’ve had Jah now for a year, and now we’ve got him for a full offseason ... so John and I are not afraid.” Hensley's slant: The Ravens need to make contingency plans because it appears that the odds are against Grubbs returning. Replacing a Pro Bowl guard with a converted tackle seems like a major step backward to me. Baltimore would be better off adding a stop-gap veteran guard if it can't draft a quality one in the first three rounds.
The Steelers released cornerback Bryant McFadden and special teams player Arnaz Battle, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
These moves freed up $3.5 million in salary-cap room. McFadden played six of his seven NFL seasons for the Steelers, and Battle joined Pittsburgh in 2010.
Pittsburgh officially announced the signing of safety Myron Rolle, who was a 2008 Rhodes Scholar. He had been on the Tennessee Titans practice squad in 2010 and in their training camp last summer.
Meanwhile, the St. Louis Rams requested permission to speak to Steelers director of administration Omar Khan for their general manager position, sources told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Khan, the team's salary-cap manager and chief contract negotiator, has been with the Steelers since 2000. He was a finalist in the Seattle Seahawks' general manager search two years ago.
Hensley's slant: The only significance with these cuts is that it's the beginning of what should be a long list of them. McFadden started the season opener but lost his starting job to William Gay. He played sparingly on defense much of the season and fell behind rookie cornerbacks Cortez Allen and Curtis Brown on the depth chart. Battle contributed on special teams but the veteran wide receiver didn't make a catch in his two seasons with the Steelers.
BENGALS: The Bengals dropped to 10th in the AFC this season with 22 takeaways. Their 10 interceptions were the fewest in coach Marvin Lewis' nine seasons in Cincinnati. "If there’s one thing we have to get … figure out a way to create more. Teams that create the most turnovers play in this game," Lewis told the team's website while at the Super Bowl. "More recently we have declined [in interceptions] and we have to find out why. We play more man concepts. That is part of it. We started very good and then we hit a lull. You have to look at that but conceptually that’s the difference." Hensley's slant: That was the biggest season-long weakness for a defense that consistently overachieved. How important are turnovers? Like Lewis said, you just need to look at the two teams who played in the Super Bowl. New England led the AFC with 34 takeaways, and the New York Giants were fourth in the NFC with 31.
BROWNS: Quarterback Colt McCoy was medically cleared from a head injury that sidelined him for the final three games last year, team president Mike Holmgren told ESPN 850 WKNR-AM in Cleveland (via the Akron Beacon Journal). "He passed all his tests and he’s feeling fine," Holmgren said. "He has no residual effects from the play. I know no one will work harder this off season than Colt McCoy. So I’m happy we got through all that and he’s fine and he appears to be.” Hensley's slant: Now, the only question that remains at quarterback is who will be competing against McCoy for the starting job. At this point, it would be a letdown if the Browns failed to draft Baylor's Robert Griffin III or sign Matt Flynn in free agency.
RAVENS: The team's website speculated that offensive tackle Jah Reid might shift to left guard if Ben Grubbs leaves in free agency. Reid, a third-round pick from a year ago, was drafted to be the team's future right tackle. "The thing that Steve [Bisciotti, team owner] pushed John [Harbaugh] and I the last couple of years is, ‘Don’t be afraid to play young players,’” general manager Ozzie Newsome said when asked about the potential position change. “We’ve had Jah now for a year, and now we’ve got him for a full offseason ... so John and I are not afraid.” Hensley's slant: The Ravens need to make contingency plans because it appears that the odds are against Grubbs returning. Replacing a Pro Bowl guard with a converted tackle seems like a major step backward to me. Baltimore would be better off adding a stop-gap veteran guard if it can't draft a quality one in the first three rounds.
ESPN Insider Peter Keating makes the point that the one team that can draw inspiration from the Giants' success 
is the Pittsburgh Steelers. He suggests that the Steelers have to let quarterback Ben Roethlisberger air it out.
According to Keating, there is significant evidence that the Steelers' tried and true “balanced” approach on offense is costing them points. The Steelers ran the ball on 47.4 percent of plays in 2010 and 42.8 percent of plays in 2011, while the Giants, Packers and Saints all rushed on fewer than 40 percent of plays this season.
In my opinion, an offense has to play to its strengths and the Steelers' strength is Roethlisberger, Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown. But you have to be smart. You can't abandon the run and throw at the same rate as the Giants, Packers and Saints.
Running the ball isn't reducing Roethlisberger's role. It's actually preserving it. He is getting hit at an alarming rate and it's taking its toll. Last season, he battled foot, ankle and thumb injuries. If Roethlisberger was healthy in the playoffs, the Steelers might have been playing in the Super Bowl instead of losing to Tim Tebow.
Until the Steelers improve their pass protection or Roethlisberger learns to get rid of the ball faster, Pittsburgh can't throw the ball like the Giants without risking Roethlisberger's health.
is the Pittsburgh Steelers. He suggests that the Steelers have to let quarterback Ben Roethlisberger air it out.
According to Keating, there is significant evidence that the Steelers' tried and true “balanced” approach on offense is costing them points. The Steelers ran the ball on 47.4 percent of plays in 2010 and 42.8 percent of plays in 2011, while the Giants, Packers and Saints all rushed on fewer than 40 percent of plays this season.
In my opinion, an offense has to play to its strengths and the Steelers' strength is Roethlisberger, Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown. But you have to be smart. You can't abandon the run and throw at the same rate as the Giants, Packers and Saints.
Running the ball isn't reducing Roethlisberger's role. It's actually preserving it. He is getting hit at an alarming rate and it's taking its toll. Last season, he battled foot, ankle and thumb injuries. If Roethlisberger was healthy in the playoffs, the Steelers might have been playing in the Super Bowl instead of losing to Tim Tebow.
Until the Steelers improve their pass protection or Roethlisberger learns to get rid of the ball faster, Pittsburgh can't throw the ball like the Giants without risking Roethlisberger's health.
So, you have the first pick in the 2004 NFL draft. Knowing what you do now, which quarterback would you take?
Would it be Eli Manning? He went first overall that year. Would it be Ben Roethlisberger? He lasted until the 11th pick. Or would it even be Philip Rivers? He was taken fourth overall.
Manning is coming off his second Super Bowl championship and captured his second Super Bowl Most Valuable Player award. He has thrown for 27,579 yards, with 185 touchdowns and 129 interceptions. Manning has directed 21 fourth-quarter comebacks and his overall record (including postseason) is 74-53 (.582).
Roethlisberger is also a two-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback, although he has yet to win the MVP award. He has passed for 26,579 (exactly 1,000 less than Manning), with 165 touchdowns and 100 interceptions. Roethlisberger has 20 fourth-quarter comebacks and his record is 90-36 (.714).
For the sake of argument, Rivers was put in this discussion as well. He lacks the same Super Bowl résumé as Manning and Roethlisberger, but he has produced impressive numbers. Despite playing more than 20 fewer games than those two quarterbacks, Rivers has thrown for 24,285 yards, with 163 touchdowns and 78 interceptions. He has 13 fourth-quarter comebacks and his record is 66-37 (.640).
Go ahead and register your vote or let me know what you think in the comments section below. I'll follow up by the end of the week.
Manning is coming off his second Super Bowl championship and captured his second Super Bowl Most Valuable Player award. He has thrown for 27,579 yards, with 185 touchdowns and 129 interceptions. Manning has directed 21 fourth-quarter comebacks and his overall record (including postseason) is 74-53 (.582).
Roethlisberger is also a two-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback, although he has yet to win the MVP award. He has passed for 26,579 (exactly 1,000 less than Manning), with 165 touchdowns and 100 interceptions. Roethlisberger has 20 fourth-quarter comebacks and his record is 90-36 (.714).
For the sake of argument, Rivers was put in this discussion as well. He lacks the same Super Bowl résumé as Manning and Roethlisberger, but he has produced impressive numbers. Despite playing more than 20 fewer games than those two quarterbacks, Rivers has thrown for 24,285 yards, with 163 touchdowns and 78 interceptions. He has 13 fourth-quarter comebacks and his record is 66-37 (.640).
Go ahead and register your vote or let me know what you think in the comments section below. I'll follow up by the end of the week.
It's Wednesday and you know what that means. Well, yes, the week is half over. But it also means that it's time for me to talk football.
We'll kick off our weekly AFC North chat at 2 p.m. ET, and it's never too early to post some questions. So take a late lunch and join us for some talk about the Bengals, Browns, Ravens and Steelers.
Remember you can follow me on Twitter at @espnafc_north and @jamisonhensley and on Facebook.
We'll kick off our weekly AFC North chat at 2 p.m. ET, and it's never too early to post some questions. So take a late lunch and join us for some talk about the Bengals, Browns, Ravens and Steelers.
Remember you can follow me on Twitter at @espnafc_north and @jamisonhensley and on Facebook.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Unrestricted (11): RB Peyton Hillis, TE Alex Smith, OT Oniel Cousins, OL John Greco, OL Artis Hicks, OL Steve Vallos, LB D'Qwell Jackson, FS Mike Adams, CB Dimitri Patterson, K Phil Dawson, P Brad Maynard
Restricted (1): DE Marcus Benard
Need to stay: D'Qwell Jackson proved he could be a force again after it looked like he would never return from pectoral injuries. The runner-up for NFL Comeback Player of the Year has to be a priority after finishing second in the NFL with 158 tackles. The Browns might be interested in Mike Adams, who beat out Usama Young in training camp. But Adams won't be guaranteed a starting job. Dmitri Patterson was a solid nickelback and broke up a dozen passes. On offense, Alex Smith and Artis Hicks might return as veteran backups.
Likely to go: There's been mixed reports on Peyton Hillis. Some believe the Browns are interested in bringing him back, but others think Cleveland has had enough of his drama-filled act. I'm siding with the latter. There's no doubt that the Browns want to keep Dawson, who hit seven field goals of 50 yards or longer. But Dawson is expected to go elsewhere after he received the franchise tag instead of a long-term deal from Cleveland last year.
Unrestricted (11): RB Peyton Hillis, TE Alex Smith, OT Oniel Cousins, OL John Greco, OL Artis Hicks, OL Steve Vallos, LB D'Qwell Jackson, FS Mike Adams, CB Dimitri Patterson, K Phil Dawson, P Brad Maynard
Restricted (1): DE Marcus Benard
Need to stay: D'Qwell Jackson proved he could be a force again after it looked like he would never return from pectoral injuries. The runner-up for NFL Comeback Player of the Year has to be a priority after finishing second in the NFL with 158 tackles. The Browns might be interested in Mike Adams, who beat out Usama Young in training camp. But Adams won't be guaranteed a starting job. Dmitri Patterson was a solid nickelback and broke up a dozen passes. On offense, Alex Smith and Artis Hicks might return as veteran backups.
Likely to go: There's been mixed reports on Peyton Hillis. Some believe the Browns are interested in bringing him back, but others think Cleveland has had enough of his drama-filled act. I'm siding with the latter. There's no doubt that the Browns want to keep Dawson, who hit seven field goals of 50 yards or longer. But Dawson is expected to go elsewhere after he received the franchise tag instead of a long-term deal from Cleveland last year.
Every morning, grab a cup of coffee and get your AFC North wake-up call here:
Steelers reserve tight end Weslye Saunders was suspended without pay for the first four games of the 2012 season for violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
His suspension begins Sept. 1, but he will be allowed to participate in offseason practices and the entire preseason. According to the Tribune-Review, Saunders is believed to have taken a stimulant prescription drug unknowingly or without receiving a medical waiver from the NFL.
An undrafted free agent, Saunders caught four passes for 29 yards and a touchdown as a rookie.
Hensley's slant: This isn't the first time Saunders has run into trouble, which should raise a red flag for the Steelers. South Carolina kicked Saunders off the team in his senior season for violating team rules and lying to the NCAA about his dealings with an agent. That's why a highly rated prospect went undrafted.
BENGALS: Hall of Fame defender Rod Woodson is waiting to see whether or not he will be a good fit on Cincinnati's coaching staff, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. He spoke with coach Marvin Lewis about the Bengals' opening at secondary coach. “Cincinnati is a good, really young team that is playing well. It would be fun,” Woodson said. “It’s a good nucleus and coaching staff. Marvin has to make a decision of how it would fit in with his coaching staff and players and [defensive coordinator] Mike Zimmer is going to have some say in that." Hensley's slant: Not sure why there is even a question if this would be a good fit. Woodson would provide a unique perspective from his playing days as a cornerback and safety.
BROWNS: The Cleveland city council has approved $5.8 million for repairs to Cleveland Browns Stadium, which will go toward refurbishing seats and repair concrete inside and outside the 12-year-old structure. But public officials are worried about if they will have enough funds when a countywide tax for maintaining the building runs out in 2015, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. Hensley's slant: The maintenance of a stadium is extremely important. Just ask those who attended games at Cleveland Municipal Stadium about what happens when one gets neglected. It's not pretty.
RAVENS: Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron sees connections that can be drawn between the Ravens' Joe Flacco and the Giants' Eli Manning. “I think there are a lot of parallels when you look at where they both were after four years,” Cameron told the team's website. “They both have had a reasonable amount of success. We all know the success Joe has had, we all know Joe’s upside. I think people were saying the same thing about Eli.” Hensley's slant: It's true that Flacco's stats look similar -- and even better -- than Manning's numbers in his first NFL seasons. And Flacco showed that he can lead a team to the Super Bowl this year (if not for Lee Evans failing to hold onto the ball in the end zone). But until Flacco wins a Super Bowl, there is no comparison.
Steelers reserve tight end Weslye Saunders was suspended without pay for the first four games of the 2012 season for violating the NFL's policy on performance-enhancing substances, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
His suspension begins Sept. 1, but he will be allowed to participate in offseason practices and the entire preseason. According to the Tribune-Review, Saunders is believed to have taken a stimulant prescription drug unknowingly or without receiving a medical waiver from the NFL.
An undrafted free agent, Saunders caught four passes for 29 yards and a touchdown as a rookie.
Hensley's slant: This isn't the first time Saunders has run into trouble, which should raise a red flag for the Steelers. South Carolina kicked Saunders off the team in his senior season for violating team rules and lying to the NCAA about his dealings with an agent. That's why a highly rated prospect went undrafted.
BENGALS: Hall of Fame defender Rod Woodson is waiting to see whether or not he will be a good fit on Cincinnati's coaching staff, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. He spoke with coach Marvin Lewis about the Bengals' opening at secondary coach. “Cincinnati is a good, really young team that is playing well. It would be fun,” Woodson said. “It’s a good nucleus and coaching staff. Marvin has to make a decision of how it would fit in with his coaching staff and players and [defensive coordinator] Mike Zimmer is going to have some say in that." Hensley's slant: Not sure why there is even a question if this would be a good fit. Woodson would provide a unique perspective from his playing days as a cornerback and safety.
BROWNS: The Cleveland city council has approved $5.8 million for repairs to Cleveland Browns Stadium, which will go toward refurbishing seats and repair concrete inside and outside the 12-year-old structure. But public officials are worried about if they will have enough funds when a countywide tax for maintaining the building runs out in 2015, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. Hensley's slant: The maintenance of a stadium is extremely important. Just ask those who attended games at Cleveland Municipal Stadium about what happens when one gets neglected. It's not pretty.
RAVENS: Offensive coordinator Cam Cameron sees connections that can be drawn between the Ravens' Joe Flacco and the Giants' Eli Manning. “I think there are a lot of parallels when you look at where they both were after four years,” Cameron told the team's website. “They both have had a reasonable amount of success. We all know the success Joe has had, we all know Joe’s upside. I think people were saying the same thing about Eli.” Hensley's slant: It's true that Flacco's stats look similar -- and even better -- than Manning's numbers in his first NFL seasons. And Flacco showed that he can lead a team to the Super Bowl this year (if not for Lee Evans failing to hold onto the ball in the end zone). But until Flacco wins a Super Bowl, there is no comparison.
This is the official retirement announcement from Ravens running back Ricky Williams:
"The NFL has been an amazing page in this chapter of my life. I pray that all successive adventures offer me the same potential for growth, success and most importantly, fun. I want to thank all my fans, teammates, coaches and supporters for the strength they've given me to overcome so much. I want to especially thank my family, coach Mack Brown, Coach [Mike] Ditka, Coach [Bill] Parcells, Ronnie Brown, Wilbert Montgomery and the Jamail family for believing in me. As for what's next, I am excited about all the opportunities ahead -- continuing my education, running The Ricky Williams Foundation and whatever other opportunities present themselves.
"My football career has been filled with many great memories going back to pee wee football with coach Tom Miller, [San Diego's] Patrick Henry High School and coach Jerry Varner and on to the University of Texas. It has been a big part of my life and blessed me with so many wonderful opportunities and the chance to connect with many people who have helped me grow and mature. I will miss the game, the camaraderie, my teammates and especially the emotions of a big victory. I love the game and leave it feeling fulfilled, proud, in great health and excited about the future.
"I have to thank Coach [John] Harbaugh and the Ravens organization for the opportunity they gave me this year. I had so much fun and really appreciated the chance to finish on such a great note."
My take on the announcement is whether Williams will stay retired. Here are other reactions from the Ravens:
Ravens running back Ray Rice: "I was a big fan of Ricky before we were teammates, but being around him this year is the best thing that happened to me in my NFL career. As a young player, you need to be around a guy who knows what he is doing, and Ricky was tremendous to learn from. The way he took care of his body and the way he prepared, he always showed that he is a true professional. This past season with him is a year I will never forget. I had the best year with him beside me, and that was no accident. I believe that Ricky Williams is a Hall of Famer. All that he has done in his career, he deserves that. I was honored to share the field with him when he went over 10,000 yards. What an amazing accomplishment, as he is one of the best. I will miss him, but I wish him and his family well."
Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome: "Ricky is one of the most productive rushers in league history, and he was a tremendous asset to our team this past season. We enjoyed having him as a member of the Ravens, as his leadership, work ethic and commitment contributed to our success. We are grateful for his contributions, and we wish him nothing but the best going forward."
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh: "Ricky, in his time here, made a valuable and lasting contribution. I especially enjoyed getting to know him as a person, and I have the utmost respect for him. He was great to be around and to work with every single day. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors."
"The NFL has been an amazing page in this chapter of my life. I pray that all successive adventures offer me the same potential for growth, success and most importantly, fun. I want to thank all my fans, teammates, coaches and supporters for the strength they've given me to overcome so much. I want to especially thank my family, coach Mack Brown, Coach [Mike] Ditka, Coach [Bill] Parcells, Ronnie Brown, Wilbert Montgomery and the Jamail family for believing in me. As for what's next, I am excited about all the opportunities ahead -- continuing my education, running The Ricky Williams Foundation and whatever other opportunities present themselves.
"My football career has been filled with many great memories going back to pee wee football with coach Tom Miller, [San Diego's] Patrick Henry High School and coach Jerry Varner and on to the University of Texas. It has been a big part of my life and blessed me with so many wonderful opportunities and the chance to connect with many people who have helped me grow and mature. I will miss the game, the camaraderie, my teammates and especially the emotions of a big victory. I love the game and leave it feeling fulfilled, proud, in great health and excited about the future.
"I have to thank Coach [John] Harbaugh and the Ravens organization for the opportunity they gave me this year. I had so much fun and really appreciated the chance to finish on such a great note."
My take on the announcement is whether Williams will stay retired. Here are other reactions from the Ravens:
Ravens running back Ray Rice: "I was a big fan of Ricky before we were teammates, but being around him this year is the best thing that happened to me in my NFL career. As a young player, you need to be around a guy who knows what he is doing, and Ricky was tremendous to learn from. The way he took care of his body and the way he prepared, he always showed that he is a true professional. This past season with him is a year I will never forget. I had the best year with him beside me, and that was no accident. I believe that Ricky Williams is a Hall of Famer. All that he has done in his career, he deserves that. I was honored to share the field with him when he went over 10,000 yards. What an amazing accomplishment, as he is one of the best. I will miss him, but I wish him and his family well."
Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome: "Ricky is one of the most productive rushers in league history, and he was a tremendous asset to our team this past season. We enjoyed having him as a member of the Ravens, as his leadership, work ethic and commitment contributed to our success. We are grateful for his contributions, and we wish him nothing but the best going forward."
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh: "Ricky, in his time here, made a valuable and lasting contribution. I especially enjoyed getting to know him as a person, and I have the utmost respect for him. He was great to be around and to work with every single day. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors."
The Pittsburgh Steelers officially announced the hiring of Todd Haley as their offensive coordinator.
Haley Here are three reasons why this was the best possible move for the Steelers:
1. Familiarity. Many assumed the Steelers were going to promote from within like they've done in the past. But Haley is a part of the Steelers' family in many respects, which is why I like this addition so much.
Haley was the offensive coordinator for two seasons (2007-08) in Arizona under Ken Whisenhunt, who was Ben Roethlisberger's first offensive coordinator. So, Haley can bring a system that should lead to a seamless transition for the Pittsburgh quarterback.
2. Flexibility. Haley's track record shows he can adapt his system to the personnel, which is the best compliment you can give an offensive coordinator. In Arizona, he capitalized on Kurt Warner and Larry Fitzgerald to produce a top-five passing attack for two years.
When he became head coach in Kansas City, Haley oversaw the NFL's top-ranked running game in 2010 with Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones. I'm really intrigued in seeing what Haley can do with Steelers receivers Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown.
3. Attitude. Haley replaces Bruce Arians, who is considered a player's coach. Arians was really close with Roethlisberger. I believe a player's coach can get his team to play hard for him, but it doesn't always work in every situation.
When the Steelers decided to replace Arians, they should go to the other extreme. That's what they did with Haley, who has been known to yell at players and likes it when they yell back. Last year, Haley and quarterback Matt Cassel had to be separated by fullback Le'Ron McClain during a sideline argument. This is the type of edge that this Steelers offense needs.
“I am excited about the opportunity to come back home and work for a tremendous organization,” Haley said after being announced as Pittsburgh's offensive coordinator. “It is an honor to work with the Rooney family and coach [Mike] Tomlin and continue the success that has become synonymous with the Steelers. My father [former Steelers director of player personnel Dick Haley] has so many fond memories both from his playing days and his time in the personnel department with the team, and I look forward to helping bring more championships to Pittsburgh and to being a part of one of the storied franchises in the NFL.”
1. Familiarity. Many assumed the Steelers were going to promote from within like they've done in the past. But Haley is a part of the Steelers' family in many respects, which is why I like this addition so much.
Haley was the offensive coordinator for two seasons (2007-08) in Arizona under Ken Whisenhunt, who was Ben Roethlisberger's first offensive coordinator. So, Haley can bring a system that should lead to a seamless transition for the Pittsburgh quarterback.
2. Flexibility. Haley's track record shows he can adapt his system to the personnel, which is the best compliment you can give an offensive coordinator. In Arizona, he capitalized on Kurt Warner and Larry Fitzgerald to produce a top-five passing attack for two years.
When he became head coach in Kansas City, Haley oversaw the NFL's top-ranked running game in 2010 with Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones. I'm really intrigued in seeing what Haley can do with Steelers receivers Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown.
3. Attitude. Haley replaces Bruce Arians, who is considered a player's coach. Arians was really close with Roethlisberger. I believe a player's coach can get his team to play hard for him, but it doesn't always work in every situation.
When the Steelers decided to replace Arians, they should go to the other extreme. That's what they did with Haley, who has been known to yell at players and likes it when they yell back. Last year, Haley and quarterback Matt Cassel had to be separated by fullback Le'Ron McClain during a sideline argument. This is the type of edge that this Steelers offense needs.
“I am excited about the opportunity to come back home and work for a tremendous organization,” Haley said after being announced as Pittsburgh's offensive coordinator. “It is an honor to work with the Rooney family and coach [Mike] Tomlin and continue the success that has become synonymous with the Steelers. My father [former Steelers director of player personnel Dick Haley] has so many fond memories both from his playing days and his time in the personnel department with the team, and I look forward to helping bring more championships to Pittsburgh and to being a part of one of the storied franchises in the NFL.”
Baltimore running back Ricky Williams plans to retire, according to ESPN's NFL Insider Adam Schefter.
When I first heard this, my initial reaction was: Will he stay retired?
Williams stunned the NFL with an early retirement in 2004. But he was back in July 2005.
He talked retirement before the 2009 season, saying he wanted to play two more seasons before calling it quits. But he played with Baltimore in 2011.
“My body feels good and I know I’m going to train hard and so I’m excited about next year,” Williams said last month, via the team's website. “I’ve grown a lot, kind of falling into a new role and a new city and a new organization, and I’ve gotten better. And like everyone else, I feel like I have something to build on for next year.”
So, what changed?
After the news broke about his retirement today, Williams addressed it in a cryptic Twitter message: "Thank you all, but this ain't it. I'm gonna do something really special. 'Be you and change the world.'"
If Williams does follow through with his retirement, it will be a big loss for the Ravens even though Williams isn't the same powerful running back from a few years ago.
What the Ravens lose isn't the stats that Williams produced last year. He rushed for a career-low 444 yards and scored two touchdowns.
What the Ravens lose is a reliable insurance policy for running back Ray Rice. If Rice went down for any significant amount of time, Baltimore didn't have to worry about handing the ball to Williams, one of 26 players in NFL history to rush for 10,000 yards.
To be honest, Williams was underused in his first season with the Ravens. He averaged less than seven carries per game and caught 13 passes, but it was hard to get him onto the field because it meant taking Rice off of it.
The Ravens signed Williams last year to a two-year contract to replace Willis McGahee, so it appears that their preference is to have an experienced backup. Baltimore's third-string running back Anthony Allen, a seventh-round pick last year, looked like he would need another year before becoming the team's primary backup.
This means the Ravens will be searching for a second-tier running back in free agency.
This week, the AFC North blog will take a look at what each team will be facing in terms of its own free agents.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Unrestricted (20): RB Cedric Benson, WR Andre Caldwell, WR Jerome Simpson, TE Donald Lee, TE Bo Scaife, OT Anthony Collins, OL Nate Livings, OL Mike McGlynn, OT Dennis Roland, OG Bobbie Williams, DE Jonathan Fanene, DE Frostee Rucker, DT Pat Sims, LB Brandon Johnson, LB Manny Lawson, CB Kelly Jennings, CB Adam Jones, S Reggie Nelson, S Gibril Wilson, K Mike Nugent.
Restricted (3): FB Chris Pressley, LB Dan Skuta, LS Clark Harris
Need to stay: It's a long list of unrestricted free agents (which includes seven starters), but there aren't a lot of players that you desperately need to keep. Nugent should be among the priorities. He was the league's most accurate kicker until late in the season when he missed four field goals over the final three games. As far as defense, Fanene is a high-effort player who is coming off a career-high 6.5 sacks. Rucker was finally healthy and had his most consistent season. On offense, Collins is a skilled pass protector who couldn't find his way on the field behind Andrew Whitworth and Andre Smith. The Bengals could move Collins to guard if re-signed.
Likely to go: Benson is high on this list. The Bengals wanted him to break more big runs. Benson wanted more carries. It looks like this will be a mutual parting. The Bengals need to upgrade at the No. 2 receiver spot after Simpson and Caldwell failed to step up. Williams, Cincinnati's long-time guard, isn't expected to get re-signed after showing his age. The Bengals have to significantly improve at guard, where starters Livings and McGlynn (both free agents) struggled. On defense, the Bengals will also not bring back Adam Jones, who was erratic in pass coverage and made a critical error in the playoffs.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Unrestricted (20): RB Cedric Benson, WR Andre Caldwell, WR Jerome Simpson, TE Donald Lee, TE Bo Scaife, OT Anthony Collins, OL Nate Livings, OL Mike McGlynn, OT Dennis Roland, OG Bobbie Williams, DE Jonathan Fanene, DE Frostee Rucker, DT Pat Sims, LB Brandon Johnson, LB Manny Lawson, CB Kelly Jennings, CB Adam Jones, S Reggie Nelson, S Gibril Wilson, K Mike Nugent.
Restricted (3): FB Chris Pressley, LB Dan Skuta, LS Clark Harris
Need to stay: It's a long list of unrestricted free agents (which includes seven starters), but there aren't a lot of players that you desperately need to keep. Nugent should be among the priorities. He was the league's most accurate kicker until late in the season when he missed four field goals over the final three games. As far as defense, Fanene is a high-effort player who is coming off a career-high 6.5 sacks. Rucker was finally healthy and had his most consistent season. On offense, Collins is a skilled pass protector who couldn't find his way on the field behind Andrew Whitworth and Andre Smith. The Bengals could move Collins to guard if re-signed.
Likely to go: Benson is high on this list. The Bengals wanted him to break more big runs. Benson wanted more carries. It looks like this will be a mutual parting. The Bengals need to upgrade at the No. 2 receiver spot after Simpson and Caldwell failed to step up. Williams, Cincinnati's long-time guard, isn't expected to get re-signed after showing his age. The Bengals have to significantly improve at guard, where starters Livings and McGlynn (both free agents) struggled. On defense, the Bengals will also not bring back Adam Jones, who was erratic in pass coverage and made a critical error in the playoffs.
Every morning, grab a cup of coffee and get your AFC North wake-up call here:
Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti said he wants to keep improving his team's offense but not at the expense of his traditionally tough defense.
“We want to have a better offense, but if you flip the switch too quick, then you’re giving up 27 points per game,” Bisciotti said, via the team's website. “So, I’m not going to be trading Jimmy Smith and Lardarius Webb for [Cardinals wide receiver Larry] Fitzgerald because that’s the quickest way to get there.”
Baltimore's defense finished third in fewest points allowed for a third straight season. In the AFC Championship Game loss at New England, the Ravens limited Tom Brady to 239 yards passing and no touchdowns and intercepted him twice.
“What our defense did to Tom Brady is something that I want my defense to do to the Tom Bradys and the [Ben] Roethlisbergers of the world going forward, forever,” Bisciotti said.
Hensley's slant: Bisciotti would have to be disappointed if his offense isn't consistently a top-10 one after the investment that he has made and will make. The Ravens signed two Pro Bowl players last year in guard Marshal Yanda and fullback Vonta Leach. The next step is reaching long-term deals with quarterback Joe Flacco and running back Ray Rice. Finishing 15th in offense won't cut it for Baltimore next year.
BENGALS: A day after the Patriots lost the Super Bowl in Indianapolis, former Bengals wide receiver Chad Ochocinco was back in Cincinnati to face the charge of driving with a suspended license and a window tint violation, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. He pleaded guilty Monday to the reduced charge of failure to display a drivers license and was fined a total of $304. “I guess I would have had to issue a larger fine if you would have won last night,” Municipal Court Judge Russell Mock said. Hensley's slant: Ochocinco's quiet Super Bowl (one catch for 21 yards) ended a disappointing 2011 season for him. He went from catching 67 passes for the Bengals in 2010 to catching 15 in the regular season for New England. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for Ochocinco, who is expected to get cut because he's scheduled to make $3 million in 2012.
BROWNS: The Cleveland Plain Dealer's Bud Shaw said the Browns have never been in a better position to find a quarterback. The reason is the Cleveland brain trust of team president Mike Holmgren, general manager Tom Heckert, head coach Pat Shurmur and offensive coordinator Brad Childress, who bring years of quarterback evaluation and development. "If this group can't make the right call, then you might as well give up, wait for Tim Tebow to become a free agent and put your hopes in the option offense and a higher power," Shaw wrote. Hensley's slant: We'll find out in the very near future whether this group can work their quarterback magic in Cleveland. This year should be a key decision at that position for the Browns, who can draft one (like Robert Griffin III), sign one (like Matt Flynn) or stick with Colt McCoy. The one who would provide the most immediate success is Flynn.
STEELERS: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Ron Cook believes NFL commissioner Roger Goodell is great for the NFL even though the Steelers disagree. "It's fair to say the Steelers didn't celebrate Goodell's extension," Cook wrote. "[James] Harrison and other Steelers long have complained that Goodell is power hungry and has too much say in the discipline for both on- and off-field discretions. They voted against the new CBA, the only one of the 32 teams to do so. Hensley's slant: Goodell rules with a heavy hand (too heavy at times) especially when it comes to fines and discipline. But everything he has done is to protect the name and the image of the NFL. If we continue to see the high quality of play on the field -- like this year's playoffs -- everyone will remain happy.
Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti said he wants to keep improving his team's offense but not at the expense of his traditionally tough defense.
“We want to have a better offense, but if you flip the switch too quick, then you’re giving up 27 points per game,” Bisciotti said, via the team's website. “So, I’m not going to be trading Jimmy Smith and Lardarius Webb for [Cardinals wide receiver Larry] Fitzgerald because that’s the quickest way to get there.”
Baltimore's defense finished third in fewest points allowed for a third straight season. In the AFC Championship Game loss at New England, the Ravens limited Tom Brady to 239 yards passing and no touchdowns and intercepted him twice.
“What our defense did to Tom Brady is something that I want my defense to do to the Tom Bradys and the [Ben] Roethlisbergers of the world going forward, forever,” Bisciotti said.
Hensley's slant: Bisciotti would have to be disappointed if his offense isn't consistently a top-10 one after the investment that he has made and will make. The Ravens signed two Pro Bowl players last year in guard Marshal Yanda and fullback Vonta Leach. The next step is reaching long-term deals with quarterback Joe Flacco and running back Ray Rice. Finishing 15th in offense won't cut it for Baltimore next year.
BENGALS: A day after the Patriots lost the Super Bowl in Indianapolis, former Bengals wide receiver Chad Ochocinco was back in Cincinnati to face the charge of driving with a suspended license and a window tint violation, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. He pleaded guilty Monday to the reduced charge of failure to display a drivers license and was fined a total of $304. “I guess I would have had to issue a larger fine if you would have won last night,” Municipal Court Judge Russell Mock said. Hensley's slant: Ochocinco's quiet Super Bowl (one catch for 21 yards) ended a disappointing 2011 season for him. He went from catching 67 passes for the Bengals in 2010 to catching 15 in the regular season for New England. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for Ochocinco, who is expected to get cut because he's scheduled to make $3 million in 2012.
BROWNS: The Cleveland Plain Dealer's Bud Shaw said the Browns have never been in a better position to find a quarterback. The reason is the Cleveland brain trust of team president Mike Holmgren, general manager Tom Heckert, head coach Pat Shurmur and offensive coordinator Brad Childress, who bring years of quarterback evaluation and development. "If this group can't make the right call, then you might as well give up, wait for Tim Tebow to become a free agent and put your hopes in the option offense and a higher power," Shaw wrote. Hensley's slant: We'll find out in the very near future whether this group can work their quarterback magic in Cleveland. This year should be a key decision at that position for the Browns, who can draft one (like Robert Griffin III), sign one (like Matt Flynn) or stick with Colt McCoy. The one who would provide the most immediate success is Flynn.
STEELERS: The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Ron Cook believes NFL commissioner Roger Goodell is great for the NFL even though the Steelers disagree. "It's fair to say the Steelers didn't celebrate Goodell's extension," Cook wrote. "[James] Harrison and other Steelers long have complained that Goodell is power hungry and has too much say in the discipline for both on- and off-field discretions. They voted against the new CBA, the only one of the 32 teams to do so. Hensley's slant: Goodell rules with a heavy hand (too heavy at times) especially when it comes to fines and discipline. But everything he has done is to protect the name and the image of the NFL. If we continue to see the high quality of play on the field -- like this year's playoffs -- everyone will remain happy.
The Steelers will hire former Chiefs coach Todd Haley as their new offensive coordinator, a source told ESPN senior NFL analyst Chris Mortensen.
This is an indication the Steelers won't forget about their passing game. In fact, Haley will enhance it.
Before becoming the Chiefs head coach, Haley was the offensive coordinator in Arizona, where the Cardinals had one of the most dangerous and innovative passing games. In Haley's two seasons as Arizona's coordinator (2007 and 2008), the Cardinals passing attack ranked fifth in the NFL in 2007 and second in 2008.
Haley, a longtime wide receivers coach, had Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin in Arizona. He now can duplicate that success with the likes of Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown.
When the Steelers parted ways with offensive coordinator Bruce Arians, a report said the move was made in order to shift the offense back toward its blue-collar identity of years past, in line with the desires of Steelers president Art Rooney II.
But Haley's expertise wasn't running the ball in Arizona. The Cardinals ranked in the bottom three in the NFL in rushing during his two seasons there.
Still, when he was the head coach of the Chiefs, Kansas City did lead the league in rushing in 2010.
This is an indication the Steelers won't forget about their passing game. In fact, Haley will enhance it.
Before becoming the Chiefs head coach, Haley was the offensive coordinator in Arizona, where the Cardinals had one of the most dangerous and innovative passing games. In Haley's two seasons as Arizona's coordinator (2007 and 2008), the Cardinals passing attack ranked fifth in the NFL in 2007 and second in 2008.
Haley, a longtime wide receivers coach, had Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin in Arizona. He now can duplicate that success with the likes of Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown.
When the Steelers parted ways with offensive coordinator Bruce Arians, a report said the move was made in order to shift the offense back toward its blue-collar identity of years past, in line with the desires of Steelers president Art Rooney II.
But Haley's expertise wasn't running the ball in Arizona. The Cardinals ranked in the bottom three in the NFL in rushing during his two seasons there.
Still, when he was the head coach of the Chiefs, Kansas City did lead the league in rushing in 2010.
INDIANAPOLIS -- AFC North headquarters is on the move today after spending a week at the Super Bowl.
So, there won't be any new posts today unless some breaking news occurs. We'll get started again on Tuesday as we begin to look at where the teams stack up as far as free agency. And let's not forget that the NFL combine begins in about two weeks.
Our weekly chat will remain Wednesdays at 2 p.m. If you prefer the mailbag route, feel free to send your questions right here.
You can follow me on Twitter at @espnafc_north and @jamisonhensley and on Facebook.
So, there won't be any new posts today unless some breaking news occurs. We'll get started again on Tuesday as we begin to look at where the teams stack up as far as free agency. And let's not forget that the NFL combine begins in about two weeks.
Our weekly chat will remain Wednesdays at 2 p.m. If you prefer the mailbag route, feel free to send your questions right here.
You can follow me on Twitter at @espnafc_north and @jamisonhensley and on Facebook.
