AFC North: Cleveland Browns
AFC North's five undrafted rookies to watch
May, 2, 2013
May 2
10:00
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
In addition to their draft picks, the AFC North teams added about 60 undrafted players this week. Some won't make it to training camp, and a majority won't last past the final cutdown. At first glance, there doesn't appear to be a Vontaze Burfict, who turned out to be the Bengals' leading tackler last season, in this year's group.
The Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers start their three-day rookie minicamps on Friday, and the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals will hold theirs next weekend.
Here are my top five undrafted rookies to watch in the AFC North:
1. Matt Furstenburg, Ravens tight end: Athletic pass-catching tight end from Maryland who posted the second-fastest time for tight ends at the NFL combine. He lacks ideal height and saw his production drop (16 catches last season) as his college team went through six quarterbacks. Furstenburg was projected by some to go in the middle rounds.
2. Onterio McCalebb, Bengals cornerback: Former Auburn running back is making a position switch. But McCalebb is going to make the team based on his returner skills. He was the fastest man at the NFL scouting combine, running the 40-yard dash in 4.27 seconds. The big question is whether he can hold up in the NFL considering his extremely frail build. McCalebb was considered a late-round pick.
3. Braxston Cave, Browns center: Experienced, thick-bodied anchor from Notre Dame who made 35 career starts. His stock dropped because of a poor performance at the Senior Bowl. There are also durability concerns after two of his seasons ended with injuries. Cave is a mauling run blocker who hoped to go as high as the fourth round.
4. Rogers Gaines, Ravens offensive tackle: Developmental left tackle project from Tennessee State has rare size (6-foot-6, 334 pounds) but just two years of starting experience at the small school level. He'll have to add muscle in the weight room and prove he can handle speed rushers in the NFL. What stands out about Gaines is his nasty streak and massive wingspan. There was a chance he could have gone as early as the fifth round.
5. Joe Madsen, Steelers center: The four-year starter from West Virginia has good size, awareness and quickness. The biggest knock on Madsen is he'll struggle at the point of attack. He has short arms but he'll need to get stronger. Madsen was considered a seventh-round pick.
The Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers start their three-day rookie minicamps on Friday, and the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals will hold theirs next weekend.
Here are my top five undrafted rookies to watch in the AFC North:
1. Matt Furstenburg, Ravens tight end: Athletic pass-catching tight end from Maryland who posted the second-fastest time for tight ends at the NFL combine. He lacks ideal height and saw his production drop (16 catches last season) as his college team went through six quarterbacks. Furstenburg was projected by some to go in the middle rounds.
2. Onterio McCalebb, Bengals cornerback: Former Auburn running back is making a position switch. But McCalebb is going to make the team based on his returner skills. He was the fastest man at the NFL scouting combine, running the 40-yard dash in 4.27 seconds. The big question is whether he can hold up in the NFL considering his extremely frail build. McCalebb was considered a late-round pick.
3. Braxston Cave, Browns center: Experienced, thick-bodied anchor from Notre Dame who made 35 career starts. His stock dropped because of a poor performance at the Senior Bowl. There are also durability concerns after two of his seasons ended with injuries. Cave is a mauling run blocker who hoped to go as high as the fourth round.
4. Rogers Gaines, Ravens offensive tackle: Developmental left tackle project from Tennessee State has rare size (6-foot-6, 334 pounds) but just two years of starting experience at the small school level. He'll have to add muscle in the weight room and prove he can handle speed rushers in the NFL. What stands out about Gaines is his nasty streak and massive wingspan. There was a chance he could have gone as early as the fifth round.
5. Joe Madsen, Steelers center: The four-year starter from West Virginia has good size, awareness and quickness. The biggest knock on Madsen is he'll struggle at the point of attack. He has short arms but he'll need to get stronger. Madsen was considered a seventh-round pick.
Last week at this time, teams were making their final preparations for the first round of the draft. Now, rookie minicamps are around the corner for the newest players in the AFC North. The mandatory minicamps for veterans is still a month away. But let's not get ahead of ourselves. First things first, which means the wake-up call ...
RAVENS: Jameel McClain is optimistic that he'll return from a spinal cord contusion he suffered last December, but the starting inside linebacker has yet to be medically cleared to resume playing. "I'm running around full speed, working out, lifting weights with no problems, nothing on my end," McClain told The Baltimore Sun. "I can do everything. Everything is positive on my end." McClain said the injury didn't require surgery. The severity and location of the injury had initially created doubt about his future.
BENGALS: Clark Judge of CBS Sports thinks the Bengals are changing their draft-day image. They are taking the best players available instead of reaching for need and players who come with baggage. Case in point: Selecting Notre Dame tight end Tyler Eifert in the first round. "So maybe it says something about the value of stability, with coach Marvin Lewis in place since 2003," Judge wrote. "Or maybe it says something about the influence of an improved scouting department and the impact that it has on Brown and the coaching staff. All I know is Mike Brown and the Cincinnati Bengals just got things right. Again."
STEELERS: Linebackers coach Keith Butler wanted the Steelers to draft an inside linebacker in the second round after taking outside linebacker Jarvis Jones in the first. "As I told them, last time we picked first and second with linebackers (2007 with Lawrence Timmons and LaMarr Woodley), we won the Super Bowl two years later," Butler told The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "We didn't go to it, we won it. I tried to make that argument, it didn't work. It worked for one round, but it didn't work for the second round." The only inside linebacker taken in the second round after the Steelers drafted running back Le'Veon Bell was Florida's Jon Bostic. The Steelers eventually selected Florida State inside linebacker Vince Williams in the sixth round.
BROWNS: The house-cleaning of the old regime's scouting department continued Wednesday, when director of college scouting John Spytek was fired along with two pro scouts, according to The Plain Dealer. Earlier in the week, senior national scout Pat Roberts left after the Browns did not renew his contract. Perhaps one reason why the Browns traded for two future picks is because CEO Joe Banner and general manager Mike Lombardi want to use their draft choices when they have their staff in place. Also, updating previous news items, The Plain Dealer is reporting free-agent offensive tackle Winston Justice is not visiting the Browns and the team isn't interested in Cardinals backup quarterback Brian Hoyer
RAVENS: Jameel McClain is optimistic that he'll return from a spinal cord contusion he suffered last December, but the starting inside linebacker has yet to be medically cleared to resume playing. "I'm running around full speed, working out, lifting weights with no problems, nothing on my end," McClain told The Baltimore Sun. "I can do everything. Everything is positive on my end." McClain said the injury didn't require surgery. The severity and location of the injury had initially created doubt about his future.
BENGALS: Clark Judge of CBS Sports thinks the Bengals are changing their draft-day image. They are taking the best players available instead of reaching for need and players who come with baggage. Case in point: Selecting Notre Dame tight end Tyler Eifert in the first round. "So maybe it says something about the value of stability, with coach Marvin Lewis in place since 2003," Judge wrote. "Or maybe it says something about the influence of an improved scouting department and the impact that it has on Brown and the coaching staff. All I know is Mike Brown and the Cincinnati Bengals just got things right. Again."
STEELERS: Linebackers coach Keith Butler wanted the Steelers to draft an inside linebacker in the second round after taking outside linebacker Jarvis Jones in the first. "As I told them, last time we picked first and second with linebackers (2007 with Lawrence Timmons and LaMarr Woodley), we won the Super Bowl two years later," Butler told The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "We didn't go to it, we won it. I tried to make that argument, it didn't work. It worked for one round, but it didn't work for the second round." The only inside linebacker taken in the second round after the Steelers drafted running back Le'Veon Bell was Florida's Jon Bostic. The Steelers eventually selected Florida State inside linebacker Vince Williams in the sixth round.
BROWNS: The house-cleaning of the old regime's scouting department continued Wednesday, when director of college scouting John Spytek was fired along with two pro scouts, according to The Plain Dealer. Earlier in the week, senior national scout Pat Roberts left after the Browns did not renew his contract. Perhaps one reason why the Browns traded for two future picks is because CEO Joe Banner and general manager Mike Lombardi want to use their draft choices when they have their staff in place. Also, updating previous news items, The Plain Dealer is reporting free-agent offensive tackle Winston Justice is not visiting the Browns and the team isn't interested in Cardinals backup quarterback Brian Hoyer
Year later, Browns got it right with Gordon
May, 1, 2013
May 1
2:20
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Last July, I thought it was the right move when the Cleveland Browns selected wide receiver Josh Gordon in the second round of the supplemental draft. A year later, the Browns look even smarter with the decision, even though chief executive officer Joe Banner refuses to admit it.
GordonAfter a slow first quarter of the season, Gordon kept improving throughout the season, catching 43 passes and scoring five touchdowns in his final 12 games. He showed flashes of being the team's long-term answer at the No. 1 receiver spot.
The decision to take Gordon started with the Browns choosing running back Trent Richardson over wide receiver Justin Blackmon in the top five of last year's draft. Blackmon was suspended Tuesday for the first four games of the 2013 season for his second violation of the substance abuse policy in less than a year.
Gordon was also considered a risk after he failed multiple drug tests during his college career. Still, there's a difference between investing a first-round pick and a second-round one on a player with red flags.
I believe the Browns made the right move with Gordon because I'm not sure he lasts until the Browns' second-round pick this year. The Browns gave up the 39th pick overall in this year's draft by taking Gordon last year.
Steve Muench of Scouts Inc. told me that he would have projected Gordon to be a late first or early second-round pick.
"I don’t see him getting past 41 where Buffalo took Southern Cal wide receiver Robert Woods, so I think he would have been a top-five wide receiver in last year’s class," Muench said. "It’s just tough to find that kind of size, speed and athletic ability."
Gordon might have gone as early at No. 27 in the first round, according to Muench. That's where the Houston Texans selected Clemson wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, the second receiver to get drafted. "Hopkins is a good value and fit there, but the same can be said about Gordon. So the Texans would have had a tough choice," Muench said.
Muench thinks the Minnesota Vikings would've still gone with Cordarrelle Patterson over Gordon at No. 29 because of his ability to make plays in space, but Gordon might have been selected over Justin Hunter by the Tennessee Titans at No. 34.
Based on Muench's analysis, it looks like the Browns got the right value in using a second-round pick on Gordon, and got an additional year out of him because it was a supplemental pick. Still, the Browns' new regime isn't ready to applaud the move made by former president Mike Holmgren and general manager Tom Heckert.
Asked if he can say now whether or not Gordon was worth the second-round pick, Banner said last weekend: "My answer is the same as it was. I think Josh has a lot of potential, and we are excited about what he can do. We’re all going to see how he develops and what he can turn into. In the end, that question will answer itself, I think. We’re certainly rooting for him to prove that was a great decision.”
The decision to take Gordon started with the Browns choosing running back Trent Richardson over wide receiver Justin Blackmon in the top five of last year's draft. Blackmon was suspended Tuesday for the first four games of the 2013 season for his second violation of the substance abuse policy in less than a year.
Gordon was also considered a risk after he failed multiple drug tests during his college career. Still, there's a difference between investing a first-round pick and a second-round one on a player with red flags.
I believe the Browns made the right move with Gordon because I'm not sure he lasts until the Browns' second-round pick this year. The Browns gave up the 39th pick overall in this year's draft by taking Gordon last year.
Steve Muench of Scouts Inc. told me that he would have projected Gordon to be a late first or early second-round pick.
"I don’t see him getting past 41 where Buffalo took Southern Cal wide receiver Robert Woods, so I think he would have been a top-five wide receiver in last year’s class," Muench said. "It’s just tough to find that kind of size, speed and athletic ability."
Gordon might have gone as early at No. 27 in the first round, according to Muench. That's where the Houston Texans selected Clemson wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, the second receiver to get drafted. "Hopkins is a good value and fit there, but the same can be said about Gordon. So the Texans would have had a tough choice," Muench said.
Muench thinks the Minnesota Vikings would've still gone with Cordarrelle Patterson over Gordon at No. 29 because of his ability to make plays in space, but Gordon might have been selected over Justin Hunter by the Tennessee Titans at No. 34.
Based on Muench's analysis, it looks like the Browns got the right value in using a second-round pick on Gordon, and got an additional year out of him because it was a supplemental pick. Still, the Browns' new regime isn't ready to applaud the move made by former president Mike Holmgren and general manager Tom Heckert.
Asked if he can say now whether or not Gordon was worth the second-round pick, Banner said last weekend: "My answer is the same as it was. I think Josh has a lot of potential, and we are excited about what he can do. We’re all going to see how he develops and what he can turn into. In the end, that question will answer itself, I think. We’re certainly rooting for him to prove that was a great decision.”
The draft is over, but the praising/criticizing/analyzing part is far from over. Stop by the AFC North weekly chat Wednesday if you want to talk about Barkevious, Margus and Shamarko, which sounds more like members of an Eastern European boy band than the newest defenders in the division.
Simply click on these underlined words right here and you'll be directed to the chat. We'll kick the discussion off at 2 p.m., so clear your schedule for that time.
As always, you can send your questions about the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers at any time. See you in a couple of hours.
Simply click on these underlined words right here and you'll be directed to the chat. We'll kick the discussion off at 2 p.m., so clear your schedule for that time.
As always, you can send your questions about the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers at any time. See you in a couple of hours.
McShay's best, worst picks for AFC North
May, 1, 2013
May 1
10:10
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
ESPN's Todd McShay evaluates the NFL draft for each AFC North team 
, giving his take on the best and most questionable picks. It's an Insider article, so you'll need a subscription to view the entire post. But here are McShay's picks and my take on them:
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Best pick: Safety Matt Elam, first round.
Questionable pick: Offensive lineman Ricky Wagner, fifth round.
My comments: I think everyone can agree that the Ravens' first two picks, Elam and inside linebacker Arthur Brown, will be impact rookies. As far as questionable picks, it's tough to criticize any of Baltimore's selections based on value. Wagner was considered a second-round pick last year but he fell after not having a stellar 2012 season.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Best pick: Tight end Tyler Eifert, first round.
Questionable pick: Safety Shawn Williams, third round.
My comments: Eifert should be the best player drafted in the last dozen picks of the first round. The Bengals took the best player available rather than addressing a bigger need. As McShay points out, there are differing opinions on Williams, the eighth safety drafted. If he isn't starting by next season, the pick looks even more questionable.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Best pick: Outside linebacker Barkevious Mingo, first round.
Questionable pick: Trading out of the fourth and fifth rounds.
My comments: McShay compares Mingo's explosive first step to Dwight Freeney, which is quite a compliment. Mingo is still developing as a pass-rusher, but his high ceiling makes him a legitimate top-10 pick. And while the Browns got good value in trading this year's picks for next year, McShay is right that the Browns passed on safeties and guards who could have helped a last-place team this season.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Best pick: Quarterback Landry Jones, fourth round.
Questionable pick: Outside linebacker Jarvis Jones, first round.
My comments: I feel that Jarvis Jones was the best, and not most questionable, pick. McShay believes Jones can be a star but he wonders whether he'll last beyond three or four years. Given Jones' talent and the Steelers' need for a pass-rusher, it was a move that the Steelers had to make. Yes, there's a risk. But there's also a big reward if he plays like he did on tape. I didn't expect Landry Jones to be the choice here for best pick. His inability to handle pressure in the pocket will be a problem at this level. McShay thinks Jones could become the surprise quarterback of this class.
, giving his take on the best and most questionable picks. It's an Insider article, so you'll need a subscription to view the entire post. But here are McShay's picks and my take on them:
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Best pick: Safety Matt Elam, first round.
Questionable pick: Offensive lineman Ricky Wagner, fifth round.
My comments: I think everyone can agree that the Ravens' first two picks, Elam and inside linebacker Arthur Brown, will be impact rookies. As far as questionable picks, it's tough to criticize any of Baltimore's selections based on value. Wagner was considered a second-round pick last year but he fell after not having a stellar 2012 season.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Best pick: Tight end Tyler Eifert, first round.
Questionable pick: Safety Shawn Williams, third round.
My comments: Eifert should be the best player drafted in the last dozen picks of the first round. The Bengals took the best player available rather than addressing a bigger need. As McShay points out, there are differing opinions on Williams, the eighth safety drafted. If he isn't starting by next season, the pick looks even more questionable.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Best pick: Outside linebacker Barkevious Mingo, first round.
Questionable pick: Trading out of the fourth and fifth rounds.
My comments: McShay compares Mingo's explosive first step to Dwight Freeney, which is quite a compliment. Mingo is still developing as a pass-rusher, but his high ceiling makes him a legitimate top-10 pick. And while the Browns got good value in trading this year's picks for next year, McShay is right that the Browns passed on safeties and guards who could have helped a last-place team this season.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Best pick: Quarterback Landry Jones, fourth round.
Questionable pick: Outside linebacker Jarvis Jones, first round.
My comments: I feel that Jarvis Jones was the best, and not most questionable, pick. McShay believes Jones can be a star but he wonders whether he'll last beyond three or four years. Given Jones' talent and the Steelers' need for a pass-rusher, it was a move that the Steelers had to make. Yes, there's a risk. But there's also a big reward if he plays like he did on tape. I didn't expect Landry Jones to be the choice here for best pick. His inability to handle pressure in the pocket will be a problem at this level. McShay thinks Jones could become the surprise quarterback of this class.
Wake-up: McKinnie making free-agent visits
May, 1, 2013
May 1
8:15
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Now that the draft is over, the AFC North blog is getting back to its usual routine. The weekly column will be posted around noon today and the chat will kick off at 2 p.m. As always, it's time to start with the wake-up call ...
RAVENS: Bryant McKinnie, who started every playoff game at left tackle for the Ravens, is continuing a two-day visit with the San Diego Chargers today after meeting and taking a physical for the Miami Dolphins. Asked how his visit with the Chargers was going, McKinnie told The Baltimore Sun in a text message: "It's cool." A source told The Sun that contract talks have yet to begin between the Chargers and McKinnie. If the Chargers did sign McKinnie, they would replace one former Ravens left tackle (Jared Gaither) with another. The Ravens still have interest in McKinnie but have penciled in Kelechi Osemele as their left tackle for right now.
BENGALS: Running back Rex Burkhead spent Monday at the White House just two days after the Bengals selected him in the sixth round of the NFL draft. Burkhead met with President Barack Obama in an effort to spread awareness for pediatric brain cancer, according to the team's official website. He befriended 7-year-old Jack Hoffman nearly two years ago early in Hoffman's battle with brain cancer. "He told me he'd be on the lookout and wished me the best of luck," Burkhead said of his talk with the President. "Hopefully I'll be back if we win the Super Bowl. I wish I told him that, but there just wasn't enough time."
STEELERS: Second-round pick Le'Veon Bell was the Steelers' top-rated running back in the draft, according to offensive coordinator Todd Haley. Running backs coach Kirby Wilson looked at tape of some of Bell's toughest games. "The games where the back isn't necessarily getting those big holes, so you can see what he's really capable of doing on his own," Haley said, via The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "Because, as we know, in the NFL the holes are a lot smaller. This is a big guy that can play like a big back, and yet also can get outside some and catch the ball." The Steelers view Bell as a three-down back.
BROWNS: Third-round pick Leon McFadden, a cornerback from San Diego State, already had a connection with the Browns even before he was drafted by the team. The quarterbacks coach at San Diego State is Brian Sipe, who quarterbacked the Browns from 1974 to 1983. "He’s very talented,” Sipe told the Akron Beacon Journal. “I had to train my quarterbacks to be able to throw against him, or I should say, stay away from him in practice.” McFadden is expected to compete for the Browns' starting cornerback job opposite Joe Haden.
RAVENS: Bryant McKinnie, who started every playoff game at left tackle for the Ravens, is continuing a two-day visit with the San Diego Chargers today after meeting and taking a physical for the Miami Dolphins. Asked how his visit with the Chargers was going, McKinnie told The Baltimore Sun in a text message: "It's cool." A source told The Sun that contract talks have yet to begin between the Chargers and McKinnie. If the Chargers did sign McKinnie, they would replace one former Ravens left tackle (Jared Gaither) with another. The Ravens still have interest in McKinnie but have penciled in Kelechi Osemele as their left tackle for right now.
BENGALS: Running back Rex Burkhead spent Monday at the White House just two days after the Bengals selected him in the sixth round of the NFL draft. Burkhead met with President Barack Obama in an effort to spread awareness for pediatric brain cancer, according to the team's official website. He befriended 7-year-old Jack Hoffman nearly two years ago early in Hoffman's battle with brain cancer. "He told me he'd be on the lookout and wished me the best of luck," Burkhead said of his talk with the President. "Hopefully I'll be back if we win the Super Bowl. I wish I told him that, but there just wasn't enough time."
STEELERS: Second-round pick Le'Veon Bell was the Steelers' top-rated running back in the draft, according to offensive coordinator Todd Haley. Running backs coach Kirby Wilson looked at tape of some of Bell's toughest games. "The games where the back isn't necessarily getting those big holes, so you can see what he's really capable of doing on his own," Haley said, via The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "Because, as we know, in the NFL the holes are a lot smaller. This is a big guy that can play like a big back, and yet also can get outside some and catch the ball." The Steelers view Bell as a three-down back.
BROWNS: Third-round pick Leon McFadden, a cornerback from San Diego State, already had a connection with the Browns even before he was drafted by the team. The quarterbacks coach at San Diego State is Brian Sipe, who quarterbacked the Browns from 1974 to 1983. "He’s very talented,” Sipe told the Akron Beacon Journal. “I had to train my quarterbacks to be able to throw against him, or I should say, stay away from him in practice.” McFadden is expected to compete for the Browns' starting cornerback job opposite Joe Haden.
Readers grade AFC North teams' drafts
April, 30, 2013
Apr 30
4:10
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Some loyal readers of the AFC North blog channeled their inner Mel Kiper Jr. and graded their team's drafts. Here are some selected comments that were sent to the AFC North mailbag ...
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Gene from San Diego: I'd give the Ravens an 'A.' And I'd send Jerry Jones a bottle of my best champagne. I mean Florida safety Matt Elam was the player they wanted and so was Arthur Brown. The rest is cake. No wide receiver, but who's gonna replace Anquan Boldin late in the draft anyway?
Wilson from Baltimore: I'd give the Ravens an 'A'. Pros: Florida safety Matt Elam and Kansas State inside linebacker Arthur Brown fill the only notable holes on defense, Missouri Southern State's Brandon Williams should take over for underachieving Terrence Cody, and based on Ozzie Newsome's history, at least one of the late round picks will become a good player for them. Cons: Left tackle not addressed and wide receiver wasn't taken until seventh round. Overall, the Ravens filled needs without reaching, and LT and WR are two positions that can be addressed by adding free-agent stopgaps until the next draft.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
ZC from Cincinnati: I believe the Bengals exceeded expectations with this years draft even when their "needs" weren't met. Notre Dame tight end Tyler Eifert and North Carolina running back Giovani Bernard have chances to be instant impact players in an offense that seemed inconsistent at times. Although safety was a need, people tend to forget this defense was rated in the top 10. I give the Bengals an 'A'.
Eric from Cincinnati: My grade for the Bengals is B-plus. They did exactly what you're supposed to do in the draft: top three picks will all make an immediate impact and the back half of their draft added some depth with players that have great developmental potential (Texas A&M linebacker Sean Porter, Arkansas wide receiver Cobi Hamilton and Ohio State offensive tackle Reid Fragel). I don't think I can give them an 'A' because they didn't grab their safety until the third round, which could lead to another year of sub-par play at the position.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Ben from Phoenix: My grade for the Browns is 'B'. LSU linebacker Barkevious Mingo has lots of upside and San Diego State cornerback Leon McFadden should be able to start at corner with improvement. To me, East Central defensive lineman Armonty Bryant will make or break the class. Has tons of potential but just has major character issues to resolve. Browns CEO Joe Banner has a knack for finding small school talents and translating them into NFL success. Lastly, watch out for free-agent safety Kerry Rhodes to the Browns before training camps begin.
Tom from Nicaragua: I think the Browns deserve a 'C.' I would have loved to see them package their last three picks to and maybe a middle rounder from next year to move up into the second like the deal Minnesota Vikings did with the New England Patriots. I don't think those last three picks will make a difference like a second-round one would. Also, I don't like no veteran corner being signed, but there are a couple still. Quentin Jammer is a starter over Buster Skrine. I know it's just a band aid, but for one year, he would work.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Jacob from Philadelphia: I think my Steelers deserve an A-minus for their draft grade, and here's why: The first round doesn't need to be addressed (anytime you can grab the player who led FBS at sacks, forced fumbles and tackles for a loss and he plays at your greatest position of need). I also love the selection of Michigan State running back Le'Veon Bell as he is one of the few three-down backs in the draft and, if coached up to play a bit more physical, he could be a fantastic back. Plus I love the pick of Syracuse safety Shmarko Thomas, and Oklahoma quarterback Landry Jones could turn out to be a great backup. My biggest concern is that while we drafted a few wideouts, including a burner, we still don't have a big physical presence who can play the ball outside the numbers. But other than that, I loved the draft.
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Gene from San Diego: I'd give the Ravens an 'A.' And I'd send Jerry Jones a bottle of my best champagne. I mean Florida safety Matt Elam was the player they wanted and so was Arthur Brown. The rest is cake. No wide receiver, but who's gonna replace Anquan Boldin late in the draft anyway?
Wilson from Baltimore: I'd give the Ravens an 'A'. Pros: Florida safety Matt Elam and Kansas State inside linebacker Arthur Brown fill the only notable holes on defense, Missouri Southern State's Brandon Williams should take over for underachieving Terrence Cody, and based on Ozzie Newsome's history, at least one of the late round picks will become a good player for them. Cons: Left tackle not addressed and wide receiver wasn't taken until seventh round. Overall, the Ravens filled needs without reaching, and LT and WR are two positions that can be addressed by adding free-agent stopgaps until the next draft.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
ZC from Cincinnati: I believe the Bengals exceeded expectations with this years draft even when their "needs" weren't met. Notre Dame tight end Tyler Eifert and North Carolina running back Giovani Bernard have chances to be instant impact players in an offense that seemed inconsistent at times. Although safety was a need, people tend to forget this defense was rated in the top 10. I give the Bengals an 'A'.
Eric from Cincinnati: My grade for the Bengals is B-plus. They did exactly what you're supposed to do in the draft: top three picks will all make an immediate impact and the back half of their draft added some depth with players that have great developmental potential (Texas A&M linebacker Sean Porter, Arkansas wide receiver Cobi Hamilton and Ohio State offensive tackle Reid Fragel). I don't think I can give them an 'A' because they didn't grab their safety until the third round, which could lead to another year of sub-par play at the position.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Ben from Phoenix: My grade for the Browns is 'B'. LSU linebacker Barkevious Mingo has lots of upside and San Diego State cornerback Leon McFadden should be able to start at corner with improvement. To me, East Central defensive lineman Armonty Bryant will make or break the class. Has tons of potential but just has major character issues to resolve. Browns CEO Joe Banner has a knack for finding small school talents and translating them into NFL success. Lastly, watch out for free-agent safety Kerry Rhodes to the Browns before training camps begin.
Tom from Nicaragua: I think the Browns deserve a 'C.' I would have loved to see them package their last three picks to and maybe a middle rounder from next year to move up into the second like the deal Minnesota Vikings did with the New England Patriots. I don't think those last three picks will make a difference like a second-round one would. Also, I don't like no veteran corner being signed, but there are a couple still. Quentin Jammer is a starter over Buster Skrine. I know it's just a band aid, but for one year, he would work.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Jacob from Philadelphia: I think my Steelers deserve an A-minus for their draft grade, and here's why: The first round doesn't need to be addressed (anytime you can grab the player who led FBS at sacks, forced fumbles and tackles for a loss and he plays at your greatest position of need). I also love the selection of Michigan State running back Le'Veon Bell as he is one of the few three-down backs in the draft and, if coached up to play a bit more physical, he could be a fantastic back. Plus I love the pick of Syracuse safety Shmarko Thomas, and Oklahoma quarterback Landry Jones could turn out to be a great backup. My biggest concern is that while we drafted a few wideouts, including a burner, we still don't have a big physical presence who can play the ball outside the numbers. But other than that, I loved the draft.NFL Power Rankings: AFC North reaction
April, 30, 2013
Apr 30
12:08
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Free agency has winded down, the schedule is out and the draft is over. Sounds like it's time to see where all of the teams measure up against one another. Here's an AFC North recap of the April edition of the NFL post-draft Power Rankings, where the Seahawks remain at No. 1:
BALTIMORE RAVENS
ESPN Power Ranking: No. 8
My ranking: No. 5
2012 record: 10-6
Comment: In my rankings right after the first wave of free agency, I had the Ravens at No. 11 because they had lost seven starters from their Super Bowl team. Since that time, the Ravens added pass-rusher Elvis Dumervil, Michael Huff as well as two potential starters in the draft (safety Matt Elam and inside linebacker Arthur Brown). There's still a major question mark at the No. 2 wide receiver spot, but the Ravens have been impressive in rebuilding their defense. That's why I moved them to No. 5, which is higher than any other voter. NFC East blogger Dan Graziano has the Ravens at No. 10, their lowest ranking.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
ESPN Power Ranking: No. 9
My ranking: No. 9
2012 record: 10-6
Comment: The Bengals really solidified themselves as a top-10 team this month. Cincinnati added linebacker James Harrison, re-signed offensive tackle Andre Smith and put together one of the best drafts in the league. Tight end Tyler Eifert and running back Giovani Bernard bring big-play ability to the offense. Everyone has the Bengals in the top 10 except for the NFC West's Mike Sando (No. 11) and NFL columnist Ashley Fox (No. 12).
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
ESPN Power Ranking: No. 16
My ranking: No. 15
2012 record: 8-8
Comment: The Steelers couldn't do much in free agency because of their salary-cap limitations. Pittsburgh was able to retain restricted free-agent wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders and extend RFA nose tackle Steve McLendon's contract. The Steelers also addressed needs with their first four picks in the draft with outside linebacker Jarvis Jones, running back Le'Veon Bell, wide receiver Markus Wheaton and safety Shamarko Thomas. Fox had the Steelers ranked the lowest at No. 18, while John Clayton had them the highest at No. 10.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
ESPN Power Ranking: No. 28
My ranking: No. 29
2012 record: 5-11
Comment: The Browns had the biggest fall in the rankings, dropping three spots since the one last month. This is what happens when a last-place team like the Browns only draft two players in the first five rounds of the draft. The perception of the Browns would be different if they had used their fourth-round pick on a wide receiver and their fifth-rounder on a free safety. The only teams ranked lower than the Browns are the Raiders, Bills, Jaguars and Jets.
BALTIMORE RAVENS
ESPN Power Ranking: No. 8
My ranking: No. 5
2012 record: 10-6
Comment: In my rankings right after the first wave of free agency, I had the Ravens at No. 11 because they had lost seven starters from their Super Bowl team. Since that time, the Ravens added pass-rusher Elvis Dumervil, Michael Huff as well as two potential starters in the draft (safety Matt Elam and inside linebacker Arthur Brown). There's still a major question mark at the No. 2 wide receiver spot, but the Ravens have been impressive in rebuilding their defense. That's why I moved them to No. 5, which is higher than any other voter. NFC East blogger Dan Graziano has the Ravens at No. 10, their lowest ranking.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
ESPN Power Ranking: No. 9
My ranking: No. 9
2012 record: 10-6
Comment: The Bengals really solidified themselves as a top-10 team this month. Cincinnati added linebacker James Harrison, re-signed offensive tackle Andre Smith and put together one of the best drafts in the league. Tight end Tyler Eifert and running back Giovani Bernard bring big-play ability to the offense. Everyone has the Bengals in the top 10 except for the NFC West's Mike Sando (No. 11) and NFL columnist Ashley Fox (No. 12).
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
ESPN Power Ranking: No. 16
My ranking: No. 15
2012 record: 8-8
Comment: The Steelers couldn't do much in free agency because of their salary-cap limitations. Pittsburgh was able to retain restricted free-agent wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders and extend RFA nose tackle Steve McLendon's contract. The Steelers also addressed needs with their first four picks in the draft with outside linebacker Jarvis Jones, running back Le'Veon Bell, wide receiver Markus Wheaton and safety Shamarko Thomas. Fox had the Steelers ranked the lowest at No. 18, while John Clayton had them the highest at No. 10.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
ESPN Power Ranking: No. 28
My ranking: No. 29
2012 record: 5-11
Comment: The Browns had the biggest fall in the rankings, dropping three spots since the one last month. This is what happens when a last-place team like the Browns only draft two players in the first five rounds of the draft. The perception of the Browns would be different if they had used their fourth-round pick on a wide receiver and their fifth-rounder on a free safety. The only teams ranked lower than the Browns are the Raiders, Bills, Jaguars and Jets.
Wake-up call: Talking wide receivers
April, 30, 2013
Apr 30
8:00
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
There's a chance that Pittsburgh Steelers rookie wide receiver Markus Wheaton could press Emmanuel Sanders for playing time. There was no chance that the Baltimore Ravens were going to take wide receiver Quinton Patton in the fourth round. And then there is new Browns wide receiver Davone Bess, who is happy he received a second chance. For more on this chatter about wide receivers, continue reading today's wake-up call ...
RAVENS: General manager Ozzie Newsome said the team wasn't planning to draft Louisiana Tech's Patton in the fourth round, where the San Francisco 49ers picked him right before Baltimore went on the clock. “Did one receiver get taken when we were set to take the guy? No, that did not happen at that point,” Newsome said after the draft, via the team's official website. The only receiver drafted by the Ravens was Elon's Aaron Mellette in the seventh round. “Were there receivers in every round that we considered? Yes,” Newsome said. “As far as Aaron, when we got to that point in the draft, he was our highest-rated guy, and that’s why we decided to take him."
BENGALS: Running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis is getting a familiar vibe when hearing the Bengals' plans of putting first-round pick Tyler Eifert on the field at the same time as Jermaine Gresham. Green-Ellis played for New England, where the Patriots used frequently used tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez as a tandem. "Long story short, if you have two tight ends and they are both big guys and you don't feel like you have to cover them with DBs, it actually brings more people in to the box," Green-Ellis said, via the team's official website. "If you have two guys and you feel like one of them is really a receiver then you approach it differently."
STEELERS: The Steelers used a third-round pick on Wheaton, just like they did four years ago with Mike Wallace. Wheaton, who averaged 13.2 yards per catch, doesn't bring the big-play numbers, but the Steelers think he comes more well-rounded than Wallace, who signed with the Dolphins in free agency. "I saw Mike as more of an outside receiver, outside the numbers," offensive coordinator Todd Haley told The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "This guy has played the slot a bunch when he wasn't outside. He is a little wider base [than Wallace], a little more running back build, in my opinion. The speed comparison -- it's hard for anyone to run faster than Mike, but this guy does play fast."
BROWNS: Bess doesn't believe he would be the same man today if he hadn't endured the misery from his past. Ten years ago, Bess spent 15 months in juvenile detention and lost his scholarship to Oregon State after he gave some friends a ride in his car after they had robbed a store. “Those heartaches, those tough times, those experiences in my cell molded me into the man I am today. At the time, being a young adolescent, I didn’t understand it. But being older now, I’m so thankful of those moments," Bess said in a conference call, via the Akron Beacon Journal. “My whole thing was going back, not only into the inner city, but abroad or wherever, and teaching, not only kids, but whoever, everybody, that there is a best route."
RAVENS: General manager Ozzie Newsome said the team wasn't planning to draft Louisiana Tech's Patton in the fourth round, where the San Francisco 49ers picked him right before Baltimore went on the clock. “Did one receiver get taken when we were set to take the guy? No, that did not happen at that point,” Newsome said after the draft, via the team's official website. The only receiver drafted by the Ravens was Elon's Aaron Mellette in the seventh round. “Were there receivers in every round that we considered? Yes,” Newsome said. “As far as Aaron, when we got to that point in the draft, he was our highest-rated guy, and that’s why we decided to take him."
BENGALS: Running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis is getting a familiar vibe when hearing the Bengals' plans of putting first-round pick Tyler Eifert on the field at the same time as Jermaine Gresham. Green-Ellis played for New England, where the Patriots used frequently used tight ends Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez as a tandem. "Long story short, if you have two tight ends and they are both big guys and you don't feel like you have to cover them with DBs, it actually brings more people in to the box," Green-Ellis said, via the team's official website. "If you have two guys and you feel like one of them is really a receiver then you approach it differently."
STEELERS: The Steelers used a third-round pick on Wheaton, just like they did four years ago with Mike Wallace. Wheaton, who averaged 13.2 yards per catch, doesn't bring the big-play numbers, but the Steelers think he comes more well-rounded than Wallace, who signed with the Dolphins in free agency. "I saw Mike as more of an outside receiver, outside the numbers," offensive coordinator Todd Haley told The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "This guy has played the slot a bunch when he wasn't outside. He is a little wider base [than Wallace], a little more running back build, in my opinion. The speed comparison -- it's hard for anyone to run faster than Mike, but this guy does play fast."
BROWNS: Bess doesn't believe he would be the same man today if he hadn't endured the misery from his past. Ten years ago, Bess spent 15 months in juvenile detention and lost his scholarship to Oregon State after he gave some friends a ride in his car after they had robbed a store. “Those heartaches, those tough times, those experiences in my cell molded me into the man I am today. At the time, being a young adolescent, I didn’t understand it. But being older now, I’m so thankful of those moments," Bess said in a conference call, via the Akron Beacon Journal. “My whole thing was going back, not only into the inner city, but abroad or wherever, and teaching, not only kids, but whoever, everybody, that there is a best route."
2013 Cleveland Browns draft analysis
April, 29, 2013
Apr 29
3:45
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Let's break down the Cleveland Browns' 2013 draft:
FIRST-ROUND SPOTLIGHT: How much did the Browns want LSU pass-rusher Barkevious Mingo? According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Cleveland refused a trade offer from the St. Louis Rams, which would have moved the Browns to No. 16 in exchange for two additional picks (ones in the second and seventh rounds). That's more value than what the No. 6 pick was worth, based on draft pick value charts, but the Browns would've had to pass on Mingo. He wasn't expected to make it past the New York Jets, who had picks at No. 9 and No. 13. Heading into the draft, many thought the Browns wanted either Mingo or Oregon linebacker Dion Jordan at No. 6.
IN HINDSIGHT: As I've written repeatedly, the biggest mistake by the Browns' new regime was failing to sign a veteran starting-caliber cornerback in free agency. The Browns, who led the league in cap room heading into the draft, didn't have to spend much to get one. Keenan Lewis, who was coached by Browns defensive coordinator Ray Horton in Pittsburgh, signed a five-year deal that included a $6 million signing bonus and $10.5 million in guaranteed money. Now the Browns are hoping third-round rookie Leon McFadden can step into a starting role. Whether Cleveland should have taken the Honey Badger, Tyrann Mathieu, who was selected one pick after McFadden, is another topic for debate.
BEST VALUE: Wide receiver Josh Gordon. Sure, I'm cheating a bit here. Gordon was taken in the second round of the supplemental draft last year. But he was the reason the Browns didn't have a second-rounder this year. I thought this move was good last year and it looks better now. I don't think Gordon makes it into the second round this year if he had been in this year's draft. The Browns also gave up practically nothing (essentially a fifth-round pick) in a trade for Dolphins wide receiver Davone Bess. So, Gordon and Bess weren't drafted by the Browns this year but the Browns made good use of picks in this draft to acquire them.
TOP LATE-ROUND PICK: Safety Jamoris Slaughter, Notre Dame. If he recovers from last season's Achilles injury and holds up health-wise, Slaughter could go from being a sixth-round pick in 2013 to a starter by 2014. He's a smart and aggressive player who would've been taken as high as the third round if his season didn't end after three games last year. There are questions about his durability. He's not built (5-foot-11, 195 pounds) to play with such a reckless style.
SOMEONE WHO DIDN'T LIKE THIS DRAFT: Offensive coordinator Norv Turner. He's taking over an offense that scored the ninth-fewest points in the NFL last season (18.9) and the only draft pick used on an offensive rookie was seventh-round tackle Garrett Gilkey from Chadron State. As I brought up earlier, the Browns used picks from this draft to bring in receivers Gordon and Bess. Turner needs young, developmental talent along a thin offensive line as well as at wide receiver and tight end. It wouldn't be as bad for Turner if the Browns had spent some money in free agency. The biggest veteran additions on offense were backup quarterback Jason Campbell, backup wide receiver David Nelson and backup tight ends Kellen Davis and Gary Barnidge. Now you can add Gilkey to an underwhelming group of newcomers on offense.
FIRST-ROUND SPOTLIGHT: How much did the Browns want LSU pass-rusher Barkevious Mingo? According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Cleveland refused a trade offer from the St. Louis Rams, which would have moved the Browns to No. 16 in exchange for two additional picks (ones in the second and seventh rounds). That's more value than what the No. 6 pick was worth, based on draft pick value charts, but the Browns would've had to pass on Mingo. He wasn't expected to make it past the New York Jets, who had picks at No. 9 and No. 13. Heading into the draft, many thought the Browns wanted either Mingo or Oregon linebacker Dion Jordan at No. 6.
IN HINDSIGHT: As I've written repeatedly, the biggest mistake by the Browns' new regime was failing to sign a veteran starting-caliber cornerback in free agency. The Browns, who led the league in cap room heading into the draft, didn't have to spend much to get one. Keenan Lewis, who was coached by Browns defensive coordinator Ray Horton in Pittsburgh, signed a five-year deal that included a $6 million signing bonus and $10.5 million in guaranteed money. Now the Browns are hoping third-round rookie Leon McFadden can step into a starting role. Whether Cleveland should have taken the Honey Badger, Tyrann Mathieu, who was selected one pick after McFadden, is another topic for debate.
BEST VALUE: Wide receiver Josh Gordon. Sure, I'm cheating a bit here. Gordon was taken in the second round of the supplemental draft last year. But he was the reason the Browns didn't have a second-rounder this year. I thought this move was good last year and it looks better now. I don't think Gordon makes it into the second round this year if he had been in this year's draft. The Browns also gave up practically nothing (essentially a fifth-round pick) in a trade for Dolphins wide receiver Davone Bess. So, Gordon and Bess weren't drafted by the Browns this year but the Browns made good use of picks in this draft to acquire them.
TOP LATE-ROUND PICK: Safety Jamoris Slaughter, Notre Dame. If he recovers from last season's Achilles injury and holds up health-wise, Slaughter could go from being a sixth-round pick in 2013 to a starter by 2014. He's a smart and aggressive player who would've been taken as high as the third round if his season didn't end after three games last year. There are questions about his durability. He's not built (5-foot-11, 195 pounds) to play with such a reckless style.
SOMEONE WHO DIDN'T LIKE THIS DRAFT: Offensive coordinator Norv Turner. He's taking over an offense that scored the ninth-fewest points in the NFL last season (18.9) and the only draft pick used on an offensive rookie was seventh-round tackle Garrett Gilkey from Chadron State. As I brought up earlier, the Browns used picks from this draft to bring in receivers Gordon and Bess. Turner needs young, developmental talent along a thin offensive line as well as at wide receiver and tight end. It wouldn't be as bad for Turner if the Browns had spent some money in free agency. The biggest veteran additions on offense were backup quarterback Jason Campbell, backup wide receiver David Nelson and backup tight ends Kellen Davis and Gary Barnidge. Now you can add Gilkey to an underwhelming group of newcomers on offense.
Winston Justice visiting Steelers, Browns
April, 29, 2013
Apr 29
2:30
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Free-agent offensive tackle Winston Justice is taking a short tour of the AFC North, visiting the Pittsburgh Steelers today before meeting with the Cleveland Browns on Wednesday, according to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.
Justice, 28, played six years for the Philadelphia Eagles (2006-2011) before joining the Indianapolis Colts last season. He was a two-year starter for the Eagles and made 12 starts for the Colts last year. Justice was the top right tackle in the AFC South last season, according to division blogger Paul Kuharsky.
The Steelers and Browns both have unproven backups at the tackle spots. Pittsburgh hasn't re-signed Max Starks, so it has Kelvin Beachum as the top reserve. Cleveland has Oniel Cousins and Ryan Miller behind Joe Thomas and Mitchell Schwartz.
The Steelers didn't take an offensive lineman with any of their nine picks in this year's draft, and the Browns selected one, Chadron State's Garrett Gilkey in the seventh round.
Justice, 28, played six years for the Philadelphia Eagles (2006-2011) before joining the Indianapolis Colts last season. He was a two-year starter for the Eagles and made 12 starts for the Colts last year. Justice was the top right tackle in the AFC South last season, according to division blogger Paul Kuharsky.
The Steelers and Browns both have unproven backups at the tackle spots. Pittsburgh hasn't re-signed Max Starks, so it has Kelvin Beachum as the top reserve. Cleveland has Oniel Cousins and Ryan Miller behind Joe Thomas and Mitchell Schwartz.
The Steelers didn't take an offensive lineman with any of their nine picks in this year's draft, and the Browns selected one, Chadron State's Garrett Gilkey in the seventh round.
Every team talks about taking the best player available in the NFL draft, but filling a need does play a factor. Not all needs were addressed over three rounds of drafting. Here are the biggest post-draft questions facing each AFC North team:
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Who's starting at strong safety next to Reggie Nelson?
The Bengals addressed safety, but not as early as many predicted. Cincinnati waited until the third round to take Georgia's Shawn Williams. He'll compete against Taylor Mays and Jeromy Miles for the starting job. This wouldn't be a question if the Bengals had chosen to take Florida International's Johnathan Cyprien or Florida's Matt Elam in the first round. The Bengals have never made strong safety a priority in the draft or free agency the past couple of years. That's why it wasn't much of a surprise to see Cincinnati pass on safety in the first round in favor of tight end Tyler Eifert, who was clearly the higher-rated player on the team's draft board. The Bengals had Kerry Rhodes in for a free-agent visit earlier this month, but coach Marvin Lewis indicated there are no plans to sign a free-agent safety. Plus, as the Bengals have shown in the past, you can always bring back Chris Crocker.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
What's going on with the defensive backfield?
There are question marks for half of the starting spots in the secondary, and the Browns obviously weren't going to be able to address them by making two picks in the first five rounds of the draft. It's crazy to think the Browns have over $30 million in salary-cap space and they don't know with any certainty who is starting at cornerback and free safety. At cornerback, the top candidates are rookie third-rond pick Leon McFadden, penalty-prone Buster Skrine, Trevin Wade and Chris Owens. The prospects are slightly better at free safety, where the Browns will decide between Eric Hagg and Tashaun Gipson. In other words, it's a major step down after cornerback Joe Haden and safety T.J. Ward. The Browns had better hope their much-improved pass rush won't allow quarterbacks to look downfield.
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Who is starting at left tackle and wide receiver?
No one really believed the Ravens were going to find the answer at left tackle when drafting at the bottom of each round. There was hope, however, the Ravens would bring in someone to complement Torrey Smith. But Baltimore didn't draft a wide receiver until the seventh round. The Ravens' decision now is whether to start Jacoby Jones (which would likely reduce his role as a returner) or go with an unproven young receiver like Tandon Doss. Another option is to go with more two tight-end sets and use Dennis Pitta in more of a wideout role by splitting him out. At left tackle, the Ravens have Kelechi Osemele penciled in that spot for right now. Baltimore can always bring back Bryant McKinnie, but he may only be re-signed if Osemele shows he can't play left tackle in minicamps. This is what the Ravens' lineup could look like heading into spring workouts: Osemele at left tackle, Jah Reid at left guard, Gino Gradkowski at center, Marshal Yanda at right guard and Michael Oher at right tackle.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
What happens if tight end Heath Miller isn't ready for the start of the season?
The Steelers have been vague on Miller's recovery from knee surgery and have yet to comment on whether he'll miss a significant amount of time in the regular season. By Pittsburgh not taking a tight end in this draft -- and passing over Notre Dame's Eifert in the first round -- you could see that as a message that the Steelers believe Miller won't miss a chunk of time at the start of 2013. But, by not adding a tight end, the Steelers have put themselves in a predicament if Miller is sidelined for an extended period. This is the depth at tight end: Matt Spaeth and David Paulson. Spaeth has averaged eight catches per season, and Paulson had seven catches last season as a rookie. That's not exactly going to replace Miller's eight touchdowns from last season.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Who's starting at strong safety next to Reggie Nelson?
The Bengals addressed safety, but not as early as many predicted. Cincinnati waited until the third round to take Georgia's Shawn Williams. He'll compete against Taylor Mays and Jeromy Miles for the starting job. This wouldn't be a question if the Bengals had chosen to take Florida International's Johnathan Cyprien or Florida's Matt Elam in the first round. The Bengals have never made strong safety a priority in the draft or free agency the past couple of years. That's why it wasn't much of a surprise to see Cincinnati pass on safety in the first round in favor of tight end Tyler Eifert, who was clearly the higher-rated player on the team's draft board. The Bengals had Kerry Rhodes in for a free-agent visit earlier this month, but coach Marvin Lewis indicated there are no plans to sign a free-agent safety. Plus, as the Bengals have shown in the past, you can always bring back Chris Crocker.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
What's going on with the defensive backfield?
There are question marks for half of the starting spots in the secondary, and the Browns obviously weren't going to be able to address them by making two picks in the first five rounds of the draft. It's crazy to think the Browns have over $30 million in salary-cap space and they don't know with any certainty who is starting at cornerback and free safety. At cornerback, the top candidates are rookie third-rond pick Leon McFadden, penalty-prone Buster Skrine, Trevin Wade and Chris Owens. The prospects are slightly better at free safety, where the Browns will decide between Eric Hagg and Tashaun Gipson. In other words, it's a major step down after cornerback Joe Haden and safety T.J. Ward. The Browns had better hope their much-improved pass rush won't allow quarterbacks to look downfield.
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Who is starting at left tackle and wide receiver?
No one really believed the Ravens were going to find the answer at left tackle when drafting at the bottom of each round. There was hope, however, the Ravens would bring in someone to complement Torrey Smith. But Baltimore didn't draft a wide receiver until the seventh round. The Ravens' decision now is whether to start Jacoby Jones (which would likely reduce his role as a returner) or go with an unproven young receiver like Tandon Doss. Another option is to go with more two tight-end sets and use Dennis Pitta in more of a wideout role by splitting him out. At left tackle, the Ravens have Kelechi Osemele penciled in that spot for right now. Baltimore can always bring back Bryant McKinnie, but he may only be re-signed if Osemele shows he can't play left tackle in minicamps. This is what the Ravens' lineup could look like heading into spring workouts: Osemele at left tackle, Jah Reid at left guard, Gino Gradkowski at center, Marshal Yanda at right guard and Michael Oher at right tackle.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
What happens if tight end Heath Miller isn't ready for the start of the season?
The Steelers have been vague on Miller's recovery from knee surgery and have yet to comment on whether he'll miss a significant amount of time in the regular season. By Pittsburgh not taking a tight end in this draft -- and passing over Notre Dame's Eifert in the first round -- you could see that as a message that the Steelers believe Miller won't miss a chunk of time at the start of 2013. But, by not adding a tight end, the Steelers have put themselves in a predicament if Miller is sidelined for an extended period. This is the depth at tight end: Matt Spaeth and David Paulson. Spaeth has averaged eight catches per season, and Paulson had seven catches last season as a rookie. That's not exactly going to replace Miller's eight touchdowns from last season.
Wake-up: Why Steelers passed on top back
April, 29, 2013
Apr 29
8:00
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
To help with your post-draft hangover, the AFC North blog will review each team's draft from last week. The first one should be posted later this morning. In case you missed it, here are the links for Mel Kiper Jr.'s grades on the AFC North teams and my analysis of the draft for the division. Now, it's time to move forward with your wake-up call ...
RAVENS: A decision on whether to keep or get rid of linebacker Rolando McClain, who was arrested recently, could happen soon. The Ravens used a second-round pick on inside linebacker Arthur Brown, which doesn't help McClain's chances to stay. “Right now, we've got 90 football players and he's one of the 90, and we're going to make determinations starting tomorrow who we think is going to be in our top 53,” general manager Ozzie Newsome said, via The Baltimore Sun. “We'll start making decisions and there are going to be some tough decisions, but right now, Rolando's still a part of our football team.” Also, wide receiver Torrey Smith cut off his dreadlocks.
BENGALS: The Cincinnati Enquirer's Paul Daugherty thinks this draft shows how much the Bengals have improved as an organization by basing picks on talent instead of reaching for need. "Lately, their drafts have been better than good. It’s too early to put this draft in that category," Daugherty wrote. "It’s not too early to look at the drafting philosophy and be encouraged. The Bengals have moved from the depths of the NFL and into its purposely bloated middle class. Lately, they’ve actually been taking some tiny, Bengal steps toward being better than that. Not to say the Bengals are Super Bowl contenders. But they are in that extended-family photo. When was the last time we could say that?"
STEELERS: The Steelers raised some eyebrows with their choice of running back in the second round, taking Michigan State's Le'Veon Bell over Alabama's Eddie Lacy, who was considered the top back in the draft. A team source told The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette that the Steelers weren't going to draft Lacy because his big toe had been fused, which has never been reported. There had been reports that teams were concerned about Lacy's hamstring and turf toe. The Steelers weren't the only team to pass on Lacy. He lasted until the bottom of the second round, when the Green Bay Packers made him the fourth running back drafted.
BROWNS: After getting through a month of free agency and seven rounds of the draft, Brandon Weeden remains atop the quarterback depth chart. In making the two trades on Day 3, the Browns passed on a number of quarterbacks, including Oklahoma's Landry Jones and Arkansas' Tyler Wilson. According to The Plain Dealer, chief executive officer Joe Banner declined to address the NFL Network report that the Browns have interest in trading for Arizona Cardinals backup quarterback Brian Hoyer. "Quarterback’s an important position," Banner said. "We're always gonna be open to looking at the position, we’re always gonna be evaluating everybody and every option there is to get stronger there, just as a matter of organizational philosophy."
RAVENS: A decision on whether to keep or get rid of linebacker Rolando McClain, who was arrested recently, could happen soon. The Ravens used a second-round pick on inside linebacker Arthur Brown, which doesn't help McClain's chances to stay. “Right now, we've got 90 football players and he's one of the 90, and we're going to make determinations starting tomorrow who we think is going to be in our top 53,” general manager Ozzie Newsome said, via The Baltimore Sun. “We'll start making decisions and there are going to be some tough decisions, but right now, Rolando's still a part of our football team.” Also, wide receiver Torrey Smith cut off his dreadlocks.
BENGALS: The Cincinnati Enquirer's Paul Daugherty thinks this draft shows how much the Bengals have improved as an organization by basing picks on talent instead of reaching for need. "Lately, their drafts have been better than good. It’s too early to put this draft in that category," Daugherty wrote. "It’s not too early to look at the drafting philosophy and be encouraged. The Bengals have moved from the depths of the NFL and into its purposely bloated middle class. Lately, they’ve actually been taking some tiny, Bengal steps toward being better than that. Not to say the Bengals are Super Bowl contenders. But they are in that extended-family photo. When was the last time we could say that?"
STEELERS: The Steelers raised some eyebrows with their choice of running back in the second round, taking Michigan State's Le'Veon Bell over Alabama's Eddie Lacy, who was considered the top back in the draft. A team source told The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette that the Steelers weren't going to draft Lacy because his big toe had been fused, which has never been reported. There had been reports that teams were concerned about Lacy's hamstring and turf toe. The Steelers weren't the only team to pass on Lacy. He lasted until the bottom of the second round, when the Green Bay Packers made him the fourth running back drafted.
BROWNS: After getting through a month of free agency and seven rounds of the draft, Brandon Weeden remains atop the quarterback depth chart. In making the two trades on Day 3, the Browns passed on a number of quarterbacks, including Oklahoma's Landry Jones and Arkansas' Tyler Wilson. According to The Plain Dealer, chief executive officer Joe Banner declined to address the NFL Network report that the Browns have interest in trading for Arizona Cardinals backup quarterback Brian Hoyer. "Quarterback’s an important position," Banner said. "We're always gonna be open to looking at the position, we’re always gonna be evaluating everybody and every option there is to get stronger there, just as a matter of organizational philosophy."
Kiper Jr.'s post-draft grades on AFC North
April, 28, 2013
Apr 28
9:15
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
The Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals had the most successful drafts in the NFL. This isn't me saying it. ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. gave three teams an 'A', and two of them were last season's playoff teams from this division. Take a bow, Ravens and Bengals.
You'll need a subscription to read all about Kiper's 2013 draft grades
, but I'll give you a portion of what Kiper had to say about the Ravens, Bengals, Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers, along with my take on each one:
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Kiper Jr.'s grade: A-minus
Kiper Jr.'s comment: "The Ravens had another excellent draft because they needed starters at some key spots and pulled it off. That's not easy to do when you're slotted in at No. 32."
Jamison Hensley's take: What stands out about the Ravens' draft is they might have found three immediate starters despite selecting at the bottom of the round for two of them. The player I like the most is Kansas State inside linebacker Arthur Brown. The Ravens aggressively traded up for him, and he should supplant Rolando McClain. Matt Elam should replace James Ihedigbo at safety, although his size is a concern. Missouri Southern State's Brandon Williams has a chance to beat out underachieving Terrence Cody at nose tackle. I would give the Ravens a grade slightly lower, because they were unable to address wide receiver and offensive tackle earlier. By just a few picks, Baltimore saw West Virginia receiver Stedman Bailey get taken before them in the third round and watched Louisiana Tech's Quinton Patton go in the fourth. Excellent draft for defense, a below-average one on offense.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Kiper Jr.'s grade: A-minus
Kiper Jr.'s comment: "The Bengals somehow didn't address a pretty big need early (and they don't have many) and still really impressed me. The Bengals seem to be a groove with the draft, the only downside being the picks that came via the Carson Palmer deal are now spent. It was fun while it lasted."
Hensley's take: The Bengals raised expectations because of productive drafts the past couple of years, and they might have surpassed them with this group of players. Using the 21st overall pick on Notre Dame tight end Tyler Eifert, a player some draft experts had going as high as No. 6, is one of the best values in the first round even though this position wasn't a need for Cincinnati. It's true North Carolina's Giovani Bernard wasn't the top-rated running back of this draft, but his ability to break big plays and catch the ball is exactly what the Bengals coveted. Plus, it's a bonus pick from the Palmer trade. Southern Methodist defensive end Margus Hunt, an athletic freak, intrigues me more than any other pick in this division. The biggest knock is the Bengals didn't address their biggest need (safety) until the third round. Georgia's Shawn Williams isn't on the same level as an Elam or Johnathan Cyprien, both of whom were available in the first round, but he'll get a chance to start.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Kiper Jr.'s grade: B
Kiper Jr.'s comment: "The Steelers got a little bit of their bite back. I love the selection of Jarvis Jones in Round 1. I just thought Le'Veon Bell was a bit of a reach. I'll say this for him, however: Bell played behind some pretty awful blocking last year and still managed to be productive."
Hensley's take: If you read my post-draft analysis, you already know that I think taking Jones was the best move when looking at the drafts for every AFC North team. The Steelers needed a pass-rusher after cutting James Harrison, and they got the best one coming out of college this year at No. 17. On the opposite side of the spectrum, the pick I'm most skeptical about is the Michigan State running back Bell. He's a finesse back who could turn out to be another Rashard Mendenhall in terms of running style. I'm not enamored by Oregon State wide receiver Markus Wheaton or Illinois cornerback Terry Hawthorne, but it's hard to criticize given the Steelers' history with wide receivers in the third round and cornerbacks in the middle of the draft. The second-best player in Pittsburgh's draft class could turn out to be Syracuse safety Shamarko Thomas, a fourth-round selection.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Kiper Jr.'s grade: C-plus
Kiper Jr.'s comment: "I don't know if it's a good thing, per se, but the guy who will impact the Browns most in 2013 might not be the player they took at No. 6 overall. The hope is (LSU linebacker Barkevious) Mingo becomes a star, and (San Diego State cornerback Leon) McFadden can perform early. The good news is, both could happen."
Hensley's take: When looking at the players the Browns drafted over these three days, I would give the Browns a C-minus. When you look at the big picture, the Browns deserve a solid B. I like the fact that the Browns took a pass-rusher with the upside of Mingo in the first round over Alabama cornerback Dee Milliner. I like how the Browns traded two picks in the middle rounds of this mediocre draft for higher ones next year. And, even though it was a move made by the old regime, I like the decision to draft wide receiver Josh Gordon in the second round of last year's supplemental draft even more when looking at the wide receivers that were available in the second round Friday night. You also have to add veteran wide receiver Davone Bess to this class after the Browns picked him up for basically nothing during this draft. My biggest criticism, and I brought it up in the post-draft analysis, was failing to sign a veteran cornerback in free agency. That would have strengthened the reason to pass on Milliner in the first round and would have taken pressure off McFadden, the 11th cornerback taken in the draft, to start right away.
You'll need a subscription to read all about Kiper's 2013 draft grades
, but I'll give you a portion of what Kiper had to say about the Ravens, Bengals, Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers, along with my take on each one:
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Kiper Jr.'s grade: A-minus
Kiper Jr.'s comment: "The Ravens had another excellent draft because they needed starters at some key spots and pulled it off. That's not easy to do when you're slotted in at No. 32."
Jamison Hensley's take: What stands out about the Ravens' draft is they might have found three immediate starters despite selecting at the bottom of the round for two of them. The player I like the most is Kansas State inside linebacker Arthur Brown. The Ravens aggressively traded up for him, and he should supplant Rolando McClain. Matt Elam should replace James Ihedigbo at safety, although his size is a concern. Missouri Southern State's Brandon Williams has a chance to beat out underachieving Terrence Cody at nose tackle. I would give the Ravens a grade slightly lower, because they were unable to address wide receiver and offensive tackle earlier. By just a few picks, Baltimore saw West Virginia receiver Stedman Bailey get taken before them in the third round and watched Louisiana Tech's Quinton Patton go in the fourth. Excellent draft for defense, a below-average one on offense.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Kiper Jr.'s grade: A-minus
Kiper Jr.'s comment: "The Bengals somehow didn't address a pretty big need early (and they don't have many) and still really impressed me. The Bengals seem to be a groove with the draft, the only downside being the picks that came via the Carson Palmer deal are now spent. It was fun while it lasted."
Hensley's take: The Bengals raised expectations because of productive drafts the past couple of years, and they might have surpassed them with this group of players. Using the 21st overall pick on Notre Dame tight end Tyler Eifert, a player some draft experts had going as high as No. 6, is one of the best values in the first round even though this position wasn't a need for Cincinnati. It's true North Carolina's Giovani Bernard wasn't the top-rated running back of this draft, but his ability to break big plays and catch the ball is exactly what the Bengals coveted. Plus, it's a bonus pick from the Palmer trade. Southern Methodist defensive end Margus Hunt, an athletic freak, intrigues me more than any other pick in this division. The biggest knock is the Bengals didn't address their biggest need (safety) until the third round. Georgia's Shawn Williams isn't on the same level as an Elam or Johnathan Cyprien, both of whom were available in the first round, but he'll get a chance to start.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Kiper Jr.'s grade: B
Kiper Jr.'s comment: "The Steelers got a little bit of their bite back. I love the selection of Jarvis Jones in Round 1. I just thought Le'Veon Bell was a bit of a reach. I'll say this for him, however: Bell played behind some pretty awful blocking last year and still managed to be productive."
Hensley's take: If you read my post-draft analysis, you already know that I think taking Jones was the best move when looking at the drafts for every AFC North team. The Steelers needed a pass-rusher after cutting James Harrison, and they got the best one coming out of college this year at No. 17. On the opposite side of the spectrum, the pick I'm most skeptical about is the Michigan State running back Bell. He's a finesse back who could turn out to be another Rashard Mendenhall in terms of running style. I'm not enamored by Oregon State wide receiver Markus Wheaton or Illinois cornerback Terry Hawthorne, but it's hard to criticize given the Steelers' history with wide receivers in the third round and cornerbacks in the middle of the draft. The second-best player in Pittsburgh's draft class could turn out to be Syracuse safety Shamarko Thomas, a fourth-round selection.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Kiper Jr.'s grade: C-plus
Kiper Jr.'s comment: "I don't know if it's a good thing, per se, but the guy who will impact the Browns most in 2013 might not be the player they took at No. 6 overall. The hope is (LSU linebacker Barkevious) Mingo becomes a star, and (San Diego State cornerback Leon) McFadden can perform early. The good news is, both could happen."
Hensley's take: When looking at the players the Browns drafted over these three days, I would give the Browns a C-minus. When you look at the big picture, the Browns deserve a solid B. I like the fact that the Browns took a pass-rusher with the upside of Mingo in the first round over Alabama cornerback Dee Milliner. I like how the Browns traded two picks in the middle rounds of this mediocre draft for higher ones next year. And, even though it was a move made by the old regime, I like the decision to draft wide receiver Josh Gordon in the second round of last year's supplemental draft even more when looking at the wide receivers that were available in the second round Friday night. You also have to add veteran wide receiver Davone Bess to this class after the Browns picked him up for basically nothing during this draft. My biggest criticism, and I brought it up in the post-draft analysis, was failing to sign a veteran cornerback in free agency. That would have strengthened the reason to pass on Milliner in the first round and would have taken pressure off McFadden, the 11th cornerback taken in the draft, to start right away.
Three or four years from now, we'll be able to evaluate this draft with a measure of accuracy. But everyone has immediate opinions on how their team performed in the draft as well as their division rivals.
So, it's time to play Mel Kiper Jr. and put some grades on the drafts for the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers. Click right here and tell us if your team made the best use of its draft picks or not. Be honest.
After you fill out the draft report card, send me your feedback by dropping a line to the AFC North mailbag. Just remember three things: name your team, give your grade and state your case in three sentences. Your comment could be used in a post on this blog in a few days.
So, it's time to play Mel Kiper Jr. and put some grades on the drafts for the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers. Click right here and tell us if your team made the best use of its draft picks or not. Be honest.
After you fill out the draft report card, send me your feedback by dropping a line to the AFC North mailbag. Just remember three things: name your team, give your grade and state your case in three sentences. Your comment could be used in a post on this blog in a few days.
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.
