AFC North: Cincinnati Bengals
From now until the start of training camps in late July, I will take some time off. This week will be one where I'll be leaving the blog in the capable hands of our editors, who will keep you informed with all the latest news.
When I return, I will address any news that breaks during my absence. Let's hope there are no more headlines involving Rolando McClain.
See you next week.
When I return, I will address any news that breaks during my absence. Let's hope there are no more headlines involving Rolando McClain.
See you next week.
For the past two weeks, the AFC North blog has ranked the positions in the division. Some positions were easy (running back was straightforward) and others were not (wide receiver and secondary were the toughest for me).
To review all of the positions, I asked ESPN's Matt Williamson to provide his rankings, which we can compare to mine. Surprisingly, they were very similar. We only disagreed on the top rankings at two positions: wide receiver and tight end.
At wide receiver, I had the Steelers at No. 1 followed by the Bengals and Williamson had them reversed, with Cincinnati as the best group. I can understand putting the Bengals first because they have the division's top receiver in A.J. Green. There's no one close. My decision was based on Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders being a better tandem than Green and Mohamed Sanu.
It was the same situation at tight end, where I had the Ravens at the top and the Bengals second. Williamson put the Bengals at No. 1 and the Ravens right behind them. I believe the Bengals have a chance to have the best tight ends, especially if Tyler Eifert surpasses the expectations for a rookie. But I went with Baltimore right now because Dennis Pitta could have the most catches by any tight end in the division (especially if Heath Miller is sidelined for a period of time) and Ed Dickson played his best football last season after Jim Caldwell took over as offensive coordinator.
Williamson said the offensive line was the toughest position to rank on offense.
"I actually think Pittsburgh's front five will be noticeably improved from a year ago, but the other three teams in the division could feature top-10 type offensive lines," Williamson said. "In the end, I went with Cleveland slightly over the Bengals and Ravens, even though I have some minor concerns about the Browns' guards."
My thought process with the offensive line was similar. The Browns' weak spot is their guards, but the rest of the line (tackles Joe Thomas and Mitchell Schwartz along with center Alex Mack) is so good that Cleveland deserves to be No. 1.
On defense, Williamson called ranking the cornerbacks "a tough chore."
"By putting Baltimore and Cleveland at the top in this group, I went with star power over depth, as I am a huge fan of Joe Haden and Lardarius Webb, who might just be the Ravens' best defensive player as he returns from injury," Williamson said. "The Bengals have a lot of capable bodies at corner and Leon Hall is a well-above-average starter, while Pittsburgh also features a very solid cornerback in Ike Taylor and some intriguing young talent."
In case you missed any of my rankings, simply click on the position to see how the AFC North teams stack up at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, tight end, offensive line, defensive line, linebacker, secondary and special teams.
To review all of the positions, I asked ESPN's Matt Williamson to provide his rankings, which we can compare to mine. Surprisingly, they were very similar. We only disagreed on the top rankings at two positions: wide receiver and tight end.
At wide receiver, I had the Steelers at No. 1 followed by the Bengals and Williamson had them reversed, with Cincinnati as the best group. I can understand putting the Bengals first because they have the division's top receiver in A.J. Green. There's no one close. My decision was based on Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders being a better tandem than Green and Mohamed Sanu.
It was the same situation at tight end, where I had the Ravens at the top and the Bengals second. Williamson put the Bengals at No. 1 and the Ravens right behind them. I believe the Bengals have a chance to have the best tight ends, especially if Tyler Eifert surpasses the expectations for a rookie. But I went with Baltimore right now because Dennis Pitta could have the most catches by any tight end in the division (especially if Heath Miller is sidelined for a period of time) and Ed Dickson played his best football last season after Jim Caldwell took over as offensive coordinator.
Williamson said the offensive line was the toughest position to rank on offense.
"I actually think Pittsburgh's front five will be noticeably improved from a year ago, but the other three teams in the division could feature top-10 type offensive lines," Williamson said. "In the end, I went with Cleveland slightly over the Bengals and Ravens, even though I have some minor concerns about the Browns' guards."
My thought process with the offensive line was similar. The Browns' weak spot is their guards, but the rest of the line (tackles Joe Thomas and Mitchell Schwartz along with center Alex Mack) is so good that Cleveland deserves to be No. 1.
On defense, Williamson called ranking the cornerbacks "a tough chore."
"By putting Baltimore and Cleveland at the top in this group, I went with star power over depth, as I am a huge fan of Joe Haden and Lardarius Webb, who might just be the Ravens' best defensive player as he returns from injury," Williamson said. "The Bengals have a lot of capable bodies at corner and Leon Hall is a well-above-average starter, while Pittsburgh also features a very solid cornerback in Ike Taylor and some intriguing young talent."
In case you missed any of my rankings, simply click on the position to see how the AFC North teams stack up at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, tight end, offensive line, defensive line, linebacker, secondary and special teams.
Eight in the Box: Returning from injury
May, 17, 2013
May 17
12:00
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
» NFC Eight in the Box: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
A look at key players for each AFC North team who are coming back from injuries:
Baltimore Ravens: Cornerback Lardarius Webb. The Ravens need their top cornerback to return to his old form, especially with Cary Williams going to the Eagles in free agency. Webb tore his ACL in October and missed the final 10 games of the regular season. Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Webb "should be ready to roll" by training camp. Baltimore could bring him along slowly and limit his playing time in the preseason. But, based on this timeline, all signs point to Webb being ready to play in the season opener. If Webb isn't ready, the Ravens' top three corners would be Corey Graham, Jimmy Smith and Chykie Brown. Webb dealt with a torn ACL in 2009, when he hurt his knee in late December. He was able to return and play 15 games the following season. So, he's been able to recover from this injury quickly in the past.
Cincinnati Bengals: Wide receiver Mohamed Sanu. He's the favorite to be the Bengals' No. 2 receiver and start opposite A.J. Green. A third-round pick last year, Sanu had worked himself into the starting lineup before breaking his left foot late in the season and undergoing surgery on Dec. 3. He expects to be running at full speed by next week's minicamp. Coach Marvin Lewis has high hopes for Sanu, saying he's ahead of where Chad Johnson was going into his second NFL season. Sanu was starting to hit his stride before the injury. In his last three games, he caught 11 passes and four touchdowns. Sanu will still have to earn the job. His main competition is Marvin Jones, a fifth-round pick from a year ago.
Cleveland Browns: Running back Trent Richardson. He said last month that he was fully recovered from all of last year's injures, and he wasn't wearing a protective sleeve over his knee anymore. But, in March, Richardson told The Plain Dealer that he might always have to deal with lingering pain from broken ribs after undergoing some tests. Richardson did say at that time that he expected to be 100 percent by training camp. Other than Richardson, the Browns aren't dealing with any critical injuries. Left guard Jason Pinkston returned to practice this week after having a blood clot in his lung that ended his 2012 season. Wide receiver David Nelson is still recovering from a torn ACL and he hopes to get on the field for June's mandatory minicamp. At this point, he's projected to be the No. 4 receiver.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Tight end Heath Miller. He's the biggest question mark in the division. After excelling in the first season of Todd Haley's offense, he tore ligaments in his right knee in the second-to-last game of the season and had surgery on Jan. 2. He's no longer on crutches and was spotted walking without a limp last month. The Steelers have been vague on Miller's timetable. Some believe that Miller will be ready for the start of the season after the Steelers passed on Tyler Eifert in the first round and didn't take a tight end in the draft. But there's still a chance that Miller could miss the start of the season or be placed on PUP. Losing Miller would significantly impact Pittsburgh's passing game. Last season, Miller led the Steelers in catches (71) and tied for the most touchdown catches (eight). Without Miller, the top two tight ends on the roster are Matt Spaeth and David Paulson. Spaeth has averaged eight catches per season, and Paulson had seven catches last season as a rookie.
A look at key players for each AFC North team who are coming back from injuries:
Baltimore Ravens: Cornerback Lardarius Webb. The Ravens need their top cornerback to return to his old form, especially with Cary Williams going to the Eagles in free agency. Webb tore his ACL in October and missed the final 10 games of the regular season. Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Webb "should be ready to roll" by training camp. Baltimore could bring him along slowly and limit his playing time in the preseason. But, based on this timeline, all signs point to Webb being ready to play in the season opener. If Webb isn't ready, the Ravens' top three corners would be Corey Graham, Jimmy Smith and Chykie Brown. Webb dealt with a torn ACL in 2009, when he hurt his knee in late December. He was able to return and play 15 games the following season. So, he's been able to recover from this injury quickly in the past.
Cincinnati Bengals: Wide receiver Mohamed Sanu. He's the favorite to be the Bengals' No. 2 receiver and start opposite A.J. Green. A third-round pick last year, Sanu had worked himself into the starting lineup before breaking his left foot late in the season and undergoing surgery on Dec. 3. He expects to be running at full speed by next week's minicamp. Coach Marvin Lewis has high hopes for Sanu, saying he's ahead of where Chad Johnson was going into his second NFL season. Sanu was starting to hit his stride before the injury. In his last three games, he caught 11 passes and four touchdowns. Sanu will still have to earn the job. His main competition is Marvin Jones, a fifth-round pick from a year ago.
Cleveland Browns: Running back Trent Richardson. He said last month that he was fully recovered from all of last year's injures, and he wasn't wearing a protective sleeve over his knee anymore. But, in March, Richardson told The Plain Dealer that he might always have to deal with lingering pain from broken ribs after undergoing some tests. Richardson did say at that time that he expected to be 100 percent by training camp. Other than Richardson, the Browns aren't dealing with any critical injuries. Left guard Jason Pinkston returned to practice this week after having a blood clot in his lung that ended his 2012 season. Wide receiver David Nelson is still recovering from a torn ACL and he hopes to get on the field for June's mandatory minicamp. At this point, he's projected to be the No. 4 receiver.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Tight end Heath Miller. He's the biggest question mark in the division. After excelling in the first season of Todd Haley's offense, he tore ligaments in his right knee in the second-to-last game of the season and had surgery on Jan. 2. He's no longer on crutches and was spotted walking without a limp last month. The Steelers have been vague on Miller's timetable. Some believe that Miller will be ready for the start of the season after the Steelers passed on Tyler Eifert in the first round and didn't take a tight end in the draft. But there's still a chance that Miller could miss the start of the season or be placed on PUP. Losing Miller would significantly impact Pittsburgh's passing game. Last season, Miller led the Steelers in catches (71) and tied for the most touchdown catches (eight). Without Miller, the top two tight ends on the roster are Matt Spaeth and David Paulson. Spaeth has averaged eight catches per season, and Paulson had seven catches last season as a rookie.
While the other teams in the AFC North are preparing for minicamps next week, the Cleveland Browns have been busy on and off the field during their workouts this week. The Browns signed two players (see below) and welcomed guard Jason Pinkston back to the practice field after a blood clot cut short last season for him. Let's see how the other division teams are faring in today's wake-up call ...
RAVENS: Everything is going well with left tackle Bryant McKinnie, according to The Baltimore Sun's Mike Preston. He's hearing word that McKinnie has been attending the team's offseason conditioning workout sessions and his weight is down. Preston thinks there are other concerns with the offensive line. "The Ravens need to work on timing issues, especially in the middle of the offensive line with new center Gino Gradkowski and guards Marshal Yanda and Kelechi Osemele," Preston wrote. "If Gradkowski performs well, the Ravens' offensive line could be one of the strong in the conference -- providing McKinnie keeps working hard."
BENGALS: Rookie linebacker Brandon Joiner, who recently served eight months of a three-year sentence for aggravated robbery, has an unlikely supporter -- Arkansas governor Mike Beebe. Joiner and Beebe both attended Arkansas State. "He's a good guy. This is the kind of story you like to talk about," Beebe told the team's official website. "Kids mess up. They do foolish things. We probably have all done stupid things when we're young. He went over the line. He did what he had to do. He paid his dues. He's a class guy."
Meanwhile, a warrant has been issued for the arrest of former Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson in South Florida. A circuit judge issued a warrant May 7 against Johnson for failing to report to his probation officer. Johnson received a year of probation last September after pleading no contest to a domestic violence charge involving his former wife, reality TV star Evelyn Lozada.
STEELERS: The Steelers signed their first draft pick from this year's class, reaching a deal with safety Shamarko Thomas. He was the first of two fourth-round picks for Pittsburgh. The Steelers traded next year's third-round pick to the Browns so they could draft Thomas. At Syracuse, Thomas started 39 games, recording 263 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss and four sacks. The Steelers, who have less than $2 million in salary-cap room, won't be able to sign all nine of their draft picks this month. Pittsburgh gains an additional $5.5 million next month because it designated guard Willie Colon a June 1 cut.
BROWNS: The Browns signed quarterback Brian Hoyer and running back Brandon Jackson, according to The Plain Dealer. Both are likely competing for backup jobs. Hoyer signed a two-year deal with his hometown team after stops in New England, Pittsburgh and Arizona. Hoyer, 27, was released by the Cardinals five days ago. Jackson, who is primarily a third-down back, signed a one-year deal to return to Cleveland. Both deals have yet to be announced by the Browns. I will provide my thoughts on the addition of Hoyer later this morning.
RAVENS: Everything is going well with left tackle Bryant McKinnie, according to The Baltimore Sun's Mike Preston. He's hearing word that McKinnie has been attending the team's offseason conditioning workout sessions and his weight is down. Preston thinks there are other concerns with the offensive line. "The Ravens need to work on timing issues, especially in the middle of the offensive line with new center Gino Gradkowski and guards Marshal Yanda and Kelechi Osemele," Preston wrote. "If Gradkowski performs well, the Ravens' offensive line could be one of the strong in the conference -- providing McKinnie keeps working hard."
BENGALS: Rookie linebacker Brandon Joiner, who recently served eight months of a three-year sentence for aggravated robbery, has an unlikely supporter -- Arkansas governor Mike Beebe. Joiner and Beebe both attended Arkansas State. "He's a good guy. This is the kind of story you like to talk about," Beebe told the team's official website. "Kids mess up. They do foolish things. We probably have all done stupid things when we're young. He went over the line. He did what he had to do. He paid his dues. He's a class guy."
Meanwhile, a warrant has been issued for the arrest of former Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson in South Florida. A circuit judge issued a warrant May 7 against Johnson for failing to report to his probation officer. Johnson received a year of probation last September after pleading no contest to a domestic violence charge involving his former wife, reality TV star Evelyn Lozada.
STEELERS: The Steelers signed their first draft pick from this year's class, reaching a deal with safety Shamarko Thomas. He was the first of two fourth-round picks for Pittsburgh. The Steelers traded next year's third-round pick to the Browns so they could draft Thomas. At Syracuse, Thomas started 39 games, recording 263 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss and four sacks. The Steelers, who have less than $2 million in salary-cap room, won't be able to sign all nine of their draft picks this month. Pittsburgh gains an additional $5.5 million next month because it designated guard Willie Colon a June 1 cut.
BROWNS: The Browns signed quarterback Brian Hoyer and running back Brandon Jackson, according to The Plain Dealer. Both are likely competing for backup jobs. Hoyer signed a two-year deal with his hometown team after stops in New England, Pittsburgh and Arizona. Hoyer, 27, was released by the Cardinals five days ago. Jackson, who is primarily a third-down back, signed a one-year deal to return to Cleveland. Both deals have yet to be announced by the Browns. I will provide my thoughts on the addition of Hoyer later this morning.
Chat Rewind: Antonio Brown a No. 1 WR?
May, 16, 2013
May 16
5:30
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Here are some highlights from our weekly AFC North chat ...
Jesse [via mobile]: Is Antonio Brown a No. 1 receiver?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): There are different levels of No. 1 receivers in the league. Calvin Johnson and A.J. Green are 1A. Vincent Jackson would be 1B. And I would put Antonio Brown more in the 1C category. He'll have his chances to prove he's worthy of being labeled a No. 1 receiver with Mike Wallace gone.
Scott (Northglenn, CO): I agree with what you said about Antonio Brown. Now that being said, a pretty sneaky candidate for 100 catches this year, right?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): I could only see that number if Heath Miller is out an extended period.
Pat (Cincy Jungle): Honestly, if Andy Dalton can finally put it all together with the new weapons he has at his disposal, how scary good?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Dalton isn't going to carry a team for an extended period. He just doesn't have the skill set. Dalton can still be a very good QB in this league. He just needs weapons around him. The Bengals have done a great job at surrounding him with playmakers.
Nick (Cherry Hill, NJ): Do you see the Ravens making another signing for a veteran free agent WR this offseason like a Brandon Lloyd? Or do they have that much faith in Tandon Doss and/or Tommy Streeter to step up?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): It seems like the Ravens want to see what these young players like Doss and Streeter can do this summer before bringing in a free agent. The Ravens would hate to commit money to someone like Lloyd when a young guy can fill the role.
Cory (Elkton, Md.): Jamison, Are the Steelers still interested in Ahmad Bradshaw or are they sticking with their current roster of backs?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Drafting Le'Veon Bell in the second round ended the Steelers' interest. If a back gets hurt, they could re-visit Bradshaw. But I don't see him in a Steelers uniform this season.
Jack ( Newark): To say Dalton doesn't have the skill set to carry a team is fair. Would you say he has the ability to have a similar impact as Matt Ryan? How much better would you say Ryan currently is than Dalton?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): In terms of skill level and ability, Matt Ryan is in a different class than Dalton.
B-More Birds (Brawltimore): Since Rolando McClain "retired" do the Ravens go after a linebacker in the free agency now; maybe someone a little older like Bran Urlacher or even a Bart Scott type?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): As long as the prognosis for Jameel McClain remains good, the Ravens will go with Jameel McClain, Arthur Brown, Albert McClellan and Josh Bynes on the inside.
Dan (Cincinnati): Who has more catches this upcoming year: Jermaine Gresham or Tyler Eifert?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Gresham will have more catches. It wouldn't surprise me if Eifert ended up with more touchdowns and big plays, though.
Darrell (Dallas TX): By the Browns pretty enough ignoring the offensive side of the ball during the draft, does this indicate that they feel they are stronger or had more potential on the Offense?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): I get the sense that the Browns didn't see anyone who could really upgrade them on offense. I liked the trade for WR Devone Bess. But the offensive line is very good. Trent Richardson should have a breakout season. Wide receivers Josh Gordon and Greg Little are developing. And they decided to see if Brandon Weeden can prove he's a franchise QB.
Rick (Boise): Odds of Michael Johnson signing long term with Bengals this summer?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Bengals certainly have the cap room to get it done. But Bengals don't have a great track record in keeping players with franchise tag. Mike Nugent was an exception.
Andrew (Cleveland): Will the Browns pick up any more help in the secondary? Or do they feel ok with youth their assuming their pass rush will be improved?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): There's an outside chance that the Browns could bring in Kerry Rhodes (he has a history with Ray Horton) if Tashaun Gipson and Eric Hagg struggle.
Jesse [via mobile]: Is Antonio Brown a No. 1 receiver?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): There are different levels of No. 1 receivers in the league. Calvin Johnson and A.J. Green are 1A. Vincent Jackson would be 1B. And I would put Antonio Brown more in the 1C category. He'll have his chances to prove he's worthy of being labeled a No. 1 receiver with Mike Wallace gone.
Scott (Northglenn, CO): I agree with what you said about Antonio Brown. Now that being said, a pretty sneaky candidate for 100 catches this year, right?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): I could only see that number if Heath Miller is out an extended period.
Pat (Cincy Jungle): Honestly, if Andy Dalton can finally put it all together with the new weapons he has at his disposal, how scary good?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Dalton isn't going to carry a team for an extended period. He just doesn't have the skill set. Dalton can still be a very good QB in this league. He just needs weapons around him. The Bengals have done a great job at surrounding him with playmakers.
Nick (Cherry Hill, NJ): Do you see the Ravens making another signing for a veteran free agent WR this offseason like a Brandon Lloyd? Or do they have that much faith in Tandon Doss and/or Tommy Streeter to step up?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): It seems like the Ravens want to see what these young players like Doss and Streeter can do this summer before bringing in a free agent. The Ravens would hate to commit money to someone like Lloyd when a young guy can fill the role.
Cory (Elkton, Md.): Jamison, Are the Steelers still interested in Ahmad Bradshaw or are they sticking with their current roster of backs?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Drafting Le'Veon Bell in the second round ended the Steelers' interest. If a back gets hurt, they could re-visit Bradshaw. But I don't see him in a Steelers uniform this season.
Jack ( Newark): To say Dalton doesn't have the skill set to carry a team is fair. Would you say he has the ability to have a similar impact as Matt Ryan? How much better would you say Ryan currently is than Dalton?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): In terms of skill level and ability, Matt Ryan is in a different class than Dalton.
B-More Birds (Brawltimore): Since Rolando McClain "retired" do the Ravens go after a linebacker in the free agency now; maybe someone a little older like Bran Urlacher or even a Bart Scott type?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): As long as the prognosis for Jameel McClain remains good, the Ravens will go with Jameel McClain, Arthur Brown, Albert McClellan and Josh Bynes on the inside.
Dan (Cincinnati): Who has more catches this upcoming year: Jermaine Gresham or Tyler Eifert?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Gresham will have more catches. It wouldn't surprise me if Eifert ended up with more touchdowns and big plays, though.
Darrell (Dallas TX): By the Browns pretty enough ignoring the offensive side of the ball during the draft, does this indicate that they feel they are stronger or had more potential on the Offense?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): I get the sense that the Browns didn't see anyone who could really upgrade them on offense. I liked the trade for WR Devone Bess. But the offensive line is very good. Trent Richardson should have a breakout season. Wide receivers Josh Gordon and Greg Little are developing. And they decided to see if Brandon Weeden can prove he's a franchise QB.
Rick (Boise): Odds of Michael Johnson signing long term with Bengals this summer?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Bengals certainly have the cap room to get it done. But Bengals don't have a great track record in keeping players with franchise tag. Mike Nugent was an exception.
Andrew (Cleveland): Will the Browns pick up any more help in the secondary? Or do they feel ok with youth their assuming their pass rush will be improved?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): There's an outside chance that the Browns could bring in Kerry Rhodes (he has a history with Ray Horton) if Tashaun Gipson and Eric Hagg struggle.
AFC North preseason schedule finalized
May, 16, 2013
May 16
3:10
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
I know everyone was holding up their plans for the summer until the dates and kickoff times for the preseason games were finalized. All times are ET. So here you go:
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Thursday, Aug. 8: at Atlanta, 8 p.m. (ESPN)
Saturday, Aug. 17: vs. Tennessee, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 24: at Dallas, 8 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 29: vs. Indianapolis, 7 p.m.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Thursday, Aug. 8: vs. St. Louis, 8 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 15: vs. Detroit, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 24: at Indianapolis, 7 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 29: at Chicago, 8 p.m.
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Thursday, Aug. 8: at Tampa Bay, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 15: vs. Atlanta, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 22: vs. Carolina, 8 p.m. (ESPN)
Thursday, Aug. 29: at St. Louis, 8 p.m.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Saturday, Aug. 10: vs. N.Y. Giants, 7:30 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 19: at Washington, 8 p.m. (ESPN)
Saturday, Aug. 24: vs. Kansas City, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 29: at Carolina, 7:30 p.m.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Thursday, Aug. 8: at Atlanta, 8 p.m. (ESPN)
Saturday, Aug. 17: vs. Tennessee, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 24: at Dallas, 8 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 29: vs. Indianapolis, 7 p.m.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Thursday, Aug. 8: vs. St. Louis, 8 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 15: vs. Detroit, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 24: at Indianapolis, 7 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 29: at Chicago, 8 p.m.
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Thursday, Aug. 8: at Tampa Bay, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 15: vs. Atlanta, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 22: vs. Carolina, 8 p.m. (ESPN)
Thursday, Aug. 29: at St. Louis, 8 p.m.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Saturday, Aug. 10: vs. N.Y. Giants, 7:30 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 19: at Washington, 8 p.m. (ESPN)
Saturday, Aug. 24: vs. Kansas City, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 29: at Carolina, 7:30 p.m.
AFC North position rank: Special teams
May, 16, 2013
May 16
12:45
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
The AFC North is finishing up the position ranks today, and I will have a wrap-up on all of the rankings Friday. Let's look at special teams, and the rankings are based on specialists and not coverage or return units as a whole.
1. Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens get the top spot based on the assumption that Jacoby Jones will remain the primary returner. He proved to be the most explosive returner in the NFL last season with four touchdowns (including playoffs). Justin Tucker exceeded expectations as a rookie last season with his accuracy (led the division at 90.9 percent) and distance on field goals. Punter Sam Koch has been solid for years and recorded a career-high 40.8-yard net average last season.
2. Cincinnati Bengals: Kevin Huber was the best punter in the AFC North last year. He led the division in net average (42.0) and punts inside the 20-yard line (33). Mike Nugent slipped to 82.6 percent conversion rate, but he was perfect inside 40 yards. The biggest concern with Nugent is durability. He has finished two of the past three seasons on injured reserve. The Bengals have some options at returner with Brandon Tate, Adam Jones and Onterio McCalebb, the fastest player at this year's NFL scouting combine.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers: Journeyman kicker Shaun Suisham has solidified himself in Pittsburgh. He has converted over 90 percent of his field goals in two of his three seasons with the Steelers. There's more uncertainty at punter and returner. Rookie punter Drew Butler was 25th in the NFL in net average (37.8), which is why he'll have competition this year from Brian Moorman, a two-time Pro Bowl punter. After spending 12 seasons with the Bills, Moorman had a below-average season last year with the Cowboys. At returner, the Steelers have to decide between LaRod Stephens-Howling, rookie sixth-round pick Justin Brown and undrafted rookie Reggie Dunn.
4. Cleveland Browns: The Browns didn't re-sign two Pro Bowl specialists from last year, kicker Phil Dawson and Josh Cribbs. The Browns downgraded at kicker, going from the one constant in their expansion era (Phil Dawson) to a player who is on his ninth team in five seasons (Shayne Graham). Graham ranked 23rd in the league last season with a 81.6 percent success rate on field goals. Cleveland also parted ways with ineffective punter, Reggie Hodges. Spencer Lanning and T.J. Conley, both of whom were out of the league last year, will compete for the punter job. Travis Benjamin is expected to replace Cribbs on punt returns, and Dion Lewis may take over on kickoffs.
1. Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens get the top spot based on the assumption that Jacoby Jones will remain the primary returner. He proved to be the most explosive returner in the NFL last season with four touchdowns (including playoffs). Justin Tucker exceeded expectations as a rookie last season with his accuracy (led the division at 90.9 percent) and distance on field goals. Punter Sam Koch has been solid for years and recorded a career-high 40.8-yard net average last season.
2. Cincinnati Bengals: Kevin Huber was the best punter in the AFC North last year. He led the division in net average (42.0) and punts inside the 20-yard line (33). Mike Nugent slipped to 82.6 percent conversion rate, but he was perfect inside 40 yards. The biggest concern with Nugent is durability. He has finished two of the past three seasons on injured reserve. The Bengals have some options at returner with Brandon Tate, Adam Jones and Onterio McCalebb, the fastest player at this year's NFL scouting combine.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers: Journeyman kicker Shaun Suisham has solidified himself in Pittsburgh. He has converted over 90 percent of his field goals in two of his three seasons with the Steelers. There's more uncertainty at punter and returner. Rookie punter Drew Butler was 25th in the NFL in net average (37.8), which is why he'll have competition this year from Brian Moorman, a two-time Pro Bowl punter. After spending 12 seasons with the Bills, Moorman had a below-average season last year with the Cowboys. At returner, the Steelers have to decide between LaRod Stephens-Howling, rookie sixth-round pick Justin Brown and undrafted rookie Reggie Dunn.
4. Cleveland Browns: The Browns didn't re-sign two Pro Bowl specialists from last year, kicker Phil Dawson and Josh Cribbs. The Browns downgraded at kicker, going from the one constant in their expansion era (Phil Dawson) to a player who is on his ninth team in five seasons (Shayne Graham). Graham ranked 23rd in the league last season with a 81.6 percent success rate on field goals. Cleveland also parted ways with ineffective punter, Reggie Hodges. Spencer Lanning and T.J. Conley, both of whom were out of the league last year, will compete for the punter job. Travis Benjamin is expected to replace Cribbs on punt returns, and Dion Lewis may take over on kickoffs.
Wake-up: Wallace uses Big Ben comparison
May, 16, 2013
May 16
8:00
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
The theme of Thursday's wake-up call is former players. Even though they're gone, they still generate interest. Other than the item on the Cincinnati Bengals, it's time to revisit some names no longer on an AFC North roster:
RAVENS: The Baltimore Sun's Mike Preston doesn't think the Ravens should have signed linebacker Rolando McClain, who announced his retirement Wednesday. "The Ravens blew it on this one," Preston wrote. "They went out and signed a knucklehead who remained a knucklehead. At this point, we don't know why McClain retired at age 23, and to be honest, I'm afraid to ask. I really don't want to know, and I'm just glad he is out of here." Also, 2005 first-round pick Mark Clayton announced his retirement two months after saying he was ready to play again. A right knee injury had sidelined him all of last season. Clayton is 30 years old, seven years older than McClain.
BENGALS: The timetable hasn't changed for cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick, who isn't expected to participate in team drills until the start of training camp in late July, according to the team's official website. He is recovering from offseason knee surgery. Kirkpatrick has been able to do some individual drills while he rehabs. "It's the best he's moved since he's been here," secondary coach Mark Carrier said. "It's amazing what you can do when you don't have any pain. Remember, he's been hurt pretty much since he's been here, so he really looks good so far."
STEELERS: Former Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace told the Miami Herald that his new quarterback (the Dolphins' Ryan Tannehill) can be just as good as his old one (the Steelers' Ben Roethlisberger). "It's funny, they both played receiver at the beginning of college," Wallace said. "They both know what we [receivers] like to do out there, so the chemistry is there already. Both have strong arms. Ryan has a cannon, can really fling it." Wallace added that Tannehill "may be able to throw the ball a little farther than Ben." Maybe Wallace should wait to actually catch a pass from Tannehill in a meaningful game before making such comparisons. With Roethlisberger throwing him the ball, Wallace had more 40-yard receptions (27) than anyone in the NFL since 2009 and the most touchdown catches of 40 yards or longer (16).
BROWNS: Wide receiver-returner Josh Cribbs is officially an ex-Browns player after signing a one-year deal with the Oakland Raiders. Cribbs, who went to three Pro Bowls during his eight seasons with Cleveland, expressed no hard feelings with his former team. "I am going to be for them until we play them," Cribbs told ESPN's Josina Anderson. "They are great fans. I love them just as much as they love me. I hope they win this year. I hope they get the job done and reach greater heights. I hope they root for me as a player and I will be rooting for them from afar." This is a much better response than when Cribbs lashed out on Twitter toward the end of last season. The Browns will replace Cribbs with Travis Benjamin in the return game.
RAVENS: The Baltimore Sun's Mike Preston doesn't think the Ravens should have signed linebacker Rolando McClain, who announced his retirement Wednesday. "The Ravens blew it on this one," Preston wrote. "They went out and signed a knucklehead who remained a knucklehead. At this point, we don't know why McClain retired at age 23, and to be honest, I'm afraid to ask. I really don't want to know, and I'm just glad he is out of here." Also, 2005 first-round pick Mark Clayton announced his retirement two months after saying he was ready to play again. A right knee injury had sidelined him all of last season. Clayton is 30 years old, seven years older than McClain.
BENGALS: The timetable hasn't changed for cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick, who isn't expected to participate in team drills until the start of training camp in late July, according to the team's official website. He is recovering from offseason knee surgery. Kirkpatrick has been able to do some individual drills while he rehabs. "It's the best he's moved since he's been here," secondary coach Mark Carrier said. "It's amazing what you can do when you don't have any pain. Remember, he's been hurt pretty much since he's been here, so he really looks good so far."
STEELERS: Former Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace told the Miami Herald that his new quarterback (the Dolphins' Ryan Tannehill) can be just as good as his old one (the Steelers' Ben Roethlisberger). "It's funny, they both played receiver at the beginning of college," Wallace said. "They both know what we [receivers] like to do out there, so the chemistry is there already. Both have strong arms. Ryan has a cannon, can really fling it." Wallace added that Tannehill "may be able to throw the ball a little farther than Ben." Maybe Wallace should wait to actually catch a pass from Tannehill in a meaningful game before making such comparisons. With Roethlisberger throwing him the ball, Wallace had more 40-yard receptions (27) than anyone in the NFL since 2009 and the most touchdown catches of 40 yards or longer (16).
BROWNS: Wide receiver-returner Josh Cribbs is officially an ex-Browns player after signing a one-year deal with the Oakland Raiders. Cribbs, who went to three Pro Bowls during his eight seasons with Cleveland, expressed no hard feelings with his former team. "I am going to be for them until we play them," Cribbs told ESPN's Josina Anderson. "They are great fans. I love them just as much as they love me. I hope they win this year. I hope they get the job done and reach greater heights. I hope they root for me as a player and I will be rooting for them from afar." This is a much better response than when Cribbs lashed out on Twitter toward the end of last season. The Browns will replace Cribbs with Travis Benjamin in the return game.
The AFC North blog is wrapping up its rankings for the positions on defense. This is a projection on how the group will fare this season. It's not an evaluation based on last year. For Wednesday, let's look at the secondary.
1. Pittsburgh Steelers: This defensive backfield is old, but it's still got one good year left as a group. Pittsburgh has the best safety tandem in the division with Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark. The key, as always, is the health of Polamalu. He's a playmaker when he's in the lineup. Ike Taylor is streaky because he goes through stretches where he lacks confidence. He's still one of the top four corners in the AFC North. There's a level of uncertainty with Cortez Allen, who is replacing Keenan Lewis in the starting lineup, and nickel back William Gay.
2. Baltimore Ravens: If Lardarius Webb can return from a season-ending knee injury, this will be a significant boost to the secondary. He's the best cornerback on the team. There's a chance that Jimmy Smith will beat out Corey Graham for the other starting job. If that happens, Baltimore will have four different starters from the secondary that started the Super Bowl. At safety, Michael Huff and Matt Elam will replace Ed Reed and Bernard Pollard. What the Ravens lost in experience, they made up for in speed and athleticism.
3. Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals have a proven cornerback in Leon Hall, who finished last season strong, and a top free safety in Reggie Nelson. The other cornerback spot will go to either veteran Terence Newman or Dre Kirkpatrick, a first-round pick from a year ago. Adam Jones provides quality depth at corner. The question mark is at strong safety, which has been the weak spot on the defense for two years. Rookie third-round pick Shawn Williams will have a shot to start but he'll have to beat out Taylor Mays, Jeromy Miles and George Iloka.
4. Cleveland Browns: Joe Haden will be the top cornerback in the AFC North, and T.J. Ward could end up being the best strong safety in the division. So why are the Browns last? There's too many questions surrounding them. Rookie third-round pick Leon McFadden is the favorite to start opposite Haden, but he may split time with Chris Owens. Buster Skrine, who committed nine penalties last year, is expected to be the nickel back. The Browns have to decide whether Tashaun Gipson or Eric Hagg will start at free safety. Neither are great options.
1. Pittsburgh Steelers: This defensive backfield is old, but it's still got one good year left as a group. Pittsburgh has the best safety tandem in the division with Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark. The key, as always, is the health of Polamalu. He's a playmaker when he's in the lineup. Ike Taylor is streaky because he goes through stretches where he lacks confidence. He's still one of the top four corners in the AFC North. There's a level of uncertainty with Cortez Allen, who is replacing Keenan Lewis in the starting lineup, and nickel back William Gay.
2. Baltimore Ravens: If Lardarius Webb can return from a season-ending knee injury, this will be a significant boost to the secondary. He's the best cornerback on the team. There's a chance that Jimmy Smith will beat out Corey Graham for the other starting job. If that happens, Baltimore will have four different starters from the secondary that started the Super Bowl. At safety, Michael Huff and Matt Elam will replace Ed Reed and Bernard Pollard. What the Ravens lost in experience, they made up for in speed and athleticism.
3. Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals have a proven cornerback in Leon Hall, who finished last season strong, and a top free safety in Reggie Nelson. The other cornerback spot will go to either veteran Terence Newman or Dre Kirkpatrick, a first-round pick from a year ago. Adam Jones provides quality depth at corner. The question mark is at strong safety, which has been the weak spot on the defense for two years. Rookie third-round pick Shawn Williams will have a shot to start but he'll have to beat out Taylor Mays, Jeromy Miles and George Iloka.
4. Cleveland Browns: Joe Haden will be the top cornerback in the AFC North, and T.J. Ward could end up being the best strong safety in the division. So why are the Browns last? There's too many questions surrounding them. Rookie third-round pick Leon McFadden is the favorite to start opposite Haden, but he may split time with Chris Owens. Buster Skrine, who committed nine penalties last year, is expected to be the nickel back. The Browns have to decide whether Tashaun Gipson or Eric Hagg will start at free safety. Neither are great options.Why Bengals were smart to draft Tyler Eifert
May, 15, 2013
May 15
12:00
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Tight end wasn't an immediate need for the Cincinnati Bengals. Tyler Eifert, though, is exactly the player the Bengals needed.
When the Bengals selected Eifert with the No. 21 overall pick, it was the most unexpected first-round choice in the AFC North. Over two weeks removed from the draft, this makes perfect sense for Cincinnati and serves as yet another reason how the Bengals have turned the corner as a franchise.
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Matt Cashore/US PRESSWIRENew Bengals tight end Tyler Eifert should improve Cincinnati's efforts in the end zone.
Matt Cashore/US PRESSWIRENew Bengals tight end Tyler Eifert should improve Cincinnati's efforts in the end zone.The Bengals' biggest need is strong safety, and no one would've criticized them taking Florida International's Johnathan Cyprien or Florida's Matt Elam. But adding a defensive back doesn't put the Bengals in the best position to take the next step. Adding another big playmaker for quarterback Andy Dalton does. This is an offense that has ranked 20th or lower for five straight seasons and has come up short at the worst possible times.
The Bengals have failed to advance in the playoffs because of the offense. In two postseason games, the Cincinnati offense has produced 16 points and one touchdown. Whether Eifert is the final piece to the Bengals winning their first postseason game in 23 seasons is unknown. He certainly gets them much closer to achieving it.
Here are the areas where the Bengals need Eifert the most:
Red zone: Picture the 6-foot-5 Eifert splitting to the outside and catching a touchdown on a fade route. Life should get a lot easier for Dalton and the Bengals inside the 20-yard line this year. The Bengals finished 16th in the NFL in red zone efficiency last season, scoring 31 touchdowns on 57 red zone trips.
Producing at a 54.4 percent clip isn't disastrous until you take a closer look at how Cincinnati finished. In December, Bengals reached the end zone on seven of 17 possessions inside the 20-yard line (41 percent) and Pro Bowl wide receiver A.J. Green recorded one touchdown catch. In two playoff games, the Bengals have scored touchdowns on just one-quarter of their red zone trips. That's not getting any team to the Super Bowl, much less past the wild-card round.
Third downs: Where the Bengals have struggled the most is on third downs. Cincinnati ranked 27th in converting third downs last season at 34 percent. To put it in perspective, the only teams worse than the Bengals in this category were four last-place teams (Chiefs, Browns, Jaguars and Cardinals) and a team with a losing record (Rams). Dalton was particularly poor on third downs, completing 47.5 of his passes (worst among quarterbacks with at least 350 pass attempts) and throwing seven interceptions (tied for third-most on third downs).
Eifert came up big on third downs during his time at Notre Dame. In the last two seasons, he caught 36 passes on third downs and converted 31 of them into first downs. His 13 receptions on third down last season was tied for eighth among college tight ends, according to ESPN Stats & Information. What makes Eifert so valuable in these situations is the trust factor. Dalton can look to Eifert in pressure moments because he has dependable hands and can make tough catches while getting hit. The same can't be said of Gresham, whose mental lapses and drops have hurt Cincinnati.
Big plays: The Bengals weren't able to consistently stretch the field as much as they wanted. Dalton's 37 completions over 20 yards ranked 24th in the NFL. Green accounted for 16 of those, and no one else on the team had more than eight. Delivering catches deep downfield may end up being Eifert's biggest impact as a rookie.
Over the past three seasons in college, Eifert has produced 29 catches over 20 yards. Last season, his seven receptions over 25 yards was tied for seventh in the FBS. What makes Eifert a good fit for the Bengals is his athleticism. He has a 35-inch vertical and will outleap defenders to make those jump ball catches. This is important in the Bengals deep passing game because Dalton doesn't have elite arm strength.
Eifert, who is wearing No. 85, is the Bengals' new Ocho Cinco, albeit without the theatrics, and represents the wave of new-school tight ends. He can be the next Jimmy Graham or Aaron Hernandez. He can be what the Bengals envisioned with Gresham. Cincinnati will line him up all over the field and create mismatch problems.
Eifert can be a big target for Dalton. He can take pressure off Green. He can be what the Bengals desperately need -- another game-changer.
We're over two weeks removed from the NFL draft and have about another month before the mandatory minicamps begin. But I'm sure you still have questions about the offseason, and I'm not talking about Dancing With The Stars or James Harrison's expensive body work.
The AFC North weekly chat will be held today at 2 p.m., so drop by to discuss the latest happenings in the division. As always, you can send your questions about the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers at any time. Just click on these blue words right here to join the award-winning fun.
See you in a couple of hours.
The AFC North weekly chat will be held today at 2 p.m., so drop by to discuss the latest happenings in the division. As always, you can send your questions about the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers at any time. Just click on these blue words right here to join the award-winning fun.
See you in a couple of hours.
James Harrison's very expensive habit
May, 15, 2013
May 15
11:00
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
In his 9½-minute introductory news conference with Cincinnati Bengals reporters, linebacker James Harrison brushed off a question about his opinion on quarterback Andy Dalton, acknowledged he's motivated by his release from the Pittsburgh Steelers, and revealed a very expensive training habit.
Harrison estimated that he spends between $400,000 to $600,000 on "body work." There's a chiropractor, an acupuncturist, a homeopathic doctor, a trainer and two to three masseuses. They stay with him during the season. Does Harrison live in a house or a day spa?
Don't get me wrong. Taking care of your body is smart for every football player, especially at 35 years old. Harrison, though, has gone to the extreme. I can't believe anyone else comes close to spending this much on his body. But not everyone tries out 150 massage therapists either.
Let's put this in perspective. If Harrison spends $600,000 on his body this year, that's more than what three Bengals starters will make this season: linebacker Vontaze Burfict, wide receiver Mohamed Sanu and guard Clint Boling. If Harrison spends only $400,000, that's still more than one-quarter of his $1.4 million salary this season. That's before taxes and the annual fines from NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.
No wonder Harrison objected to taking a pay cut with the Steelers. As we all know, it's hard to find a good homeopathic doctor on the cheap.
"If you want to be able to stay in this business for a while, you're going to have to take care of your body," Harrison said. "You want to do that, you're going to have to spend money. It's not cheap."
The Bengals are hoping Harrison's investment in his body pays off this season. Harrison missed only six games in his first seven NFL seasons. Over the past two seasons, he has been sidelined for seven games because of injuries.
“I probably haven’t felt this good since ... the beginning of 2009," he said.
Here are some other nuggets from Harrison's news conference:
On his view of Andy Dalton as a quarterback: "I don’t have a view. Next question.”
On the motivation of not being able to stay with the Steelers: “I understand it’s a business, so it’s not like I can really take it personally. But to say that it doesn’t motivate me in some sense would be a lie.”
On his definition of AFC North football: “I don’t know now. They’re starting to throw the ball. It used to be smashmouth. I don’t know what it is now; it’s a combination of the two. But it’s a rivalry of four teams that genuinely don’t like each other, but have a mutual respect.”
On whether he ever had to fight for food being the youngest of 14 children: “I got lucky. I’m like eight years removed from the next sibling. Wasn’t nobody eating no more baby food. I had all the jars to myself.’’
On his mental state on the field: "It’s focus. It’s intense. It’s violent. Because it’s a violent game. You can’t go out there with a smile on your face. I’m not out there mad at the world, making up scenarios in my head just so I could go out there and play a little harder. It’s focus and intense 100 miles an hour."
Wake-up: Weeden not looking over shoulder
May, 15, 2013
May 15
8:00
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
The good news for Jacoby Jones is he advanced to the finals of "Dancing With The Stars" on Tuesday night. The bad news for the Baltimore Ravens is Jones advanced to the finals of "Dancing With the Stars." Jones' success on the ABC series means the team's potential No. 2 wide receiver will miss the start of offseason workouts next week. But, since next week is the show's final week, he still will be able to attend the team's mandatory minicamp, which is scheduled for June 11-13. Now let's slide our way to the wake-up call, where dancing shoes are never required ...
RAVENS: The Super Bowl champions will hold a private ring ceremony on June 7 when players, coaches and staff members will receive their championship bling. According to the team's official website, owner Steve Bisciotti looked for input into the ring's design, including from quarterback Joe Flacco and linebacker Ray Lewis. Images of the ring haven't been released but it surely will include more diamonds than what the local mall jewelry store has in stock.
BENGALS: When Cincinnati reached an agreement with James Harrison on April 19, I made the point that the linebacker will bring attitude to the Bengals' defense. Cornerback Adam Jones obviously agrees. "He gives you that swagger and that seal," Jones told the team's official website. "When you mail out the letter you have to make sure you put a stamp on it. Well, he's the stamp." I will have more on Harrison's revealing news conference later this morning.
STEELERS: In a conference call with season-ticket holders, general manager Kevin Colbert said linebacker Sean Spence is progressing from a devastating knee injury he suffered a year ago. "Sometimes it takes over a year to fully rehabilitate," Colbert said, via the team's official website. "But the good thing is we are seeing signs of progress, albeit small steps. But it is progress. Sean’s attitude is off the charts. He wants to rehab. He wants to be a great player. He is working hard to get there. He is making small progress, and as long as he is making progress, we will be patient with him and hopefully get him back at full speed at some point.” Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said he expected Spence to make a full recovery, which came a week after linebackers coach Keith Butler said it would be "miraculous" if Spence ever came back.
BROWNS: Quarterback Brandon Weeden doesn't seem fazed by the talk that he'll face tough competition from Jason Campbell for the starting job, according to the team's official website. "At this position – which, to me, is the hardest position in sports – you can’t be looking over your shoulder all the time," Weeden said. "You’ve got to worry about what’s most important, and that’s me getting better, building on what I did last year, and continue to grow as a player. And, if I can do that, and not really worry about what’s going on around me, and kind of have that tunnel vision, that’s going to make me a better player and that’s going to make this team better."
RAVENS: The Super Bowl champions will hold a private ring ceremony on June 7 when players, coaches and staff members will receive their championship bling. According to the team's official website, owner Steve Bisciotti looked for input into the ring's design, including from quarterback Joe Flacco and linebacker Ray Lewis. Images of the ring haven't been released but it surely will include more diamonds than what the local mall jewelry store has in stock.
BENGALS: When Cincinnati reached an agreement with James Harrison on April 19, I made the point that the linebacker will bring attitude to the Bengals' defense. Cornerback Adam Jones obviously agrees. "He gives you that swagger and that seal," Jones told the team's official website. "When you mail out the letter you have to make sure you put a stamp on it. Well, he's the stamp." I will have more on Harrison's revealing news conference later this morning.
STEELERS: In a conference call with season-ticket holders, general manager Kevin Colbert said linebacker Sean Spence is progressing from a devastating knee injury he suffered a year ago. "Sometimes it takes over a year to fully rehabilitate," Colbert said, via the team's official website. "But the good thing is we are seeing signs of progress, albeit small steps. But it is progress. Sean’s attitude is off the charts. He wants to rehab. He wants to be a great player. He is working hard to get there. He is making small progress, and as long as he is making progress, we will be patient with him and hopefully get him back at full speed at some point.” Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said he expected Spence to make a full recovery, which came a week after linebackers coach Keith Butler said it would be "miraculous" if Spence ever came back.
BROWNS: Quarterback Brandon Weeden doesn't seem fazed by the talk that he'll face tough competition from Jason Campbell for the starting job, according to the team's official website. "At this position – which, to me, is the hardest position in sports – you can’t be looking over your shoulder all the time," Weeden said. "You’ve got to worry about what’s most important, and that’s me getting better, building on what I did last year, and continue to grow as a player. And, if I can do that, and not really worry about what’s going on around me, and kind of have that tunnel vision, that’s going to make me a better player and that’s going to make this team better."
Is Bengals' Bernard the next Ray Rice?
May, 14, 2013
May 14
4:05
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Any time a running back comes into the AFC North standing 5-foot-8 and weighing 200 pounds, the natural comparison will be to Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice.
But, as Bengals coach Marvin Lewis see it, Giovani Bernard is ahead of Rice in terms of stature coming into the NFL.
"What everybody doesn't understand, when you look at Ray Rice when he was a young player, this guy is already a little taller, a little heavier," Lewis said at last weekend's rookie minicamp. "We're looking at comparisons of [Doug] Martin, and the back down in Jacksonville [Maurice Jones-Drew], and those kind of guys with that kind of stature. Everybody sees where they are now, but you also look at physically where they started out, and I think Gio’s got special ability that way."
In terms of projection, I can see Bernard following a path similar to Jones-Drew this year. In 2006, Jones-Drew was a second-round pick who backed up an established back in Fred Taylor. Jones-Drew totaled 212 touches as a rookie, running the ball 166 times and making 46 catches.
Like Jones-Drew, Bernard doesn't have to be the featured back right away because BenJarvus Green-Ellis will remain the starter. Green-Ellis is under contract for two more seasons, which will allow Bernard to develop and eventually become a three-down back.
Right now, Bernard is considered more of a specialty back. After the Bengals used the 37th overall pick on Bernard, offensive coordinator Jay Gruden described him as "a unique back with the skill set that doesn't have to be a 25-carry guy. He can be a 10-15-carry guy, catch eight balls, whatever it is, to help us out and make us more diverse."
The key is getting Bernard out in space as much as possible so he can use his elite athleticism. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the Bengals were working on screen passes with Bernard at rookie minicamp last week.
“He’s got great hands and makes people miss on the second level,” Gruden said. “Andy [Dalton] needs some of those short passes that turn into 25-yard gains. It’s a lot easier on a quarterback. Instead of grinding out every first down with the exception of throwing one deep to A.J. [Green] every now and then, we need some guys to get better running after the catch and breaking tackles after contact.”
But, as Bengals coach Marvin Lewis see it, Giovani Bernard is ahead of Rice in terms of stature coming into the NFL.
"What everybody doesn't understand, when you look at Ray Rice when he was a young player, this guy is already a little taller, a little heavier," Lewis said at last weekend's rookie minicamp. "We're looking at comparisons of [Doug] Martin, and the back down in Jacksonville [Maurice Jones-Drew], and those kind of guys with that kind of stature. Everybody sees where they are now, but you also look at physically where they started out, and I think Gio’s got special ability that way."
In terms of projection, I can see Bernard following a path similar to Jones-Drew this year. In 2006, Jones-Drew was a second-round pick who backed up an established back in Fred Taylor. Jones-Drew totaled 212 touches as a rookie, running the ball 166 times and making 46 catches.
Like Jones-Drew, Bernard doesn't have to be the featured back right away because BenJarvus Green-Ellis will remain the starter. Green-Ellis is under contract for two more seasons, which will allow Bernard to develop and eventually become a three-down back.
Right now, Bernard is considered more of a specialty back. After the Bengals used the 37th overall pick on Bernard, offensive coordinator Jay Gruden described him as "a unique back with the skill set that doesn't have to be a 25-carry guy. He can be a 10-15-carry guy, catch eight balls, whatever it is, to help us out and make us more diverse."
The key is getting Bernard out in space as much as possible so he can use his elite athleticism. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the Bengals were working on screen passes with Bernard at rookie minicamp last week.
“He’s got great hands and makes people miss on the second level,” Gruden said. “Andy [Dalton] needs some of those short passes that turn into 25-yard gains. It’s a lot easier on a quarterback. Instead of grinding out every first down with the exception of throwing one deep to A.J. [Green] every now and then, we need some guys to get better running after the catch and breaking tackles after contact.”
Bengals signing picks, Steelers will wait
May, 14, 2013
May 14
2:30
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
The Cincinnati Bengals have followed the Baltimore Ravens in making quick work in signing draft picks, reaching agreements with six of their 10 selections.
The only remaining unsigned picks are the Bengals' top four -- tight end Tyler Eifert (first round), running back Giovani Bernard (second round), defensive end Margus Hunt (second round) and safety Shawn Williams (third round).
The Ravens signed six of their 10 draft picks before rookie minicamp started earlier this month. As I wrote then, signing draft picks has become a smoother process because of the new collective bargaining agreement, which standardizes the slotting process and puts limitations on signing bonuses.
The Cleveland Browns will likely start signing a bulk of their picks soon, but the Pittsburgh Steelers will probably be the last to reach deals with their entire draft class. The Steelers would prefer not to wait. They just don't have much of a choice.
As it's been all offseason, the problem for the Steelers is lack of salary-cap space. Pittsburgh has less than $2 million in cap room right now, and it would take roughly $5 million to sign all nine draft picks. Expect the Steelers to start signing most of their draft picks beginning in June. That's when they'll receive an additional $5.5 million because guard Willie Colon was designated a June 1 cut.
The only remaining unsigned picks are the Bengals' top four -- tight end Tyler Eifert (first round), running back Giovani Bernard (second round), defensive end Margus Hunt (second round) and safety Shawn Williams (third round).
The Ravens signed six of their 10 draft picks before rookie minicamp started earlier this month. As I wrote then, signing draft picks has become a smoother process because of the new collective bargaining agreement, which standardizes the slotting process and puts limitations on signing bonuses.
The Cleveland Browns will likely start signing a bulk of their picks soon, but the Pittsburgh Steelers will probably be the last to reach deals with their entire draft class. The Steelers would prefer not to wait. They just don't have much of a choice.
As it's been all offseason, the problem for the Steelers is lack of salary-cap space. Pittsburgh has less than $2 million in cap room right now, and it would take roughly $5 million to sign all nine draft picks. Expect the Steelers to start signing most of their draft picks beginning in June. That's when they'll receive an additional $5.5 million because guard Willie Colon was designated a June 1 cut.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Jamison Hensley
Hensley joined ESPN.com in 2011 after covering the Ravens for The Baltimore Sun for 11 years. A graduate of the University of Maryland, he lives in the Baltimore area with his wife and son.
