AFC North mailbag

October, 25, 2008
Oct 25
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By James Walker

Posted by ESPN.com James Walker

As always, send all of your questions and comments here.

Brian from Savannah writes: James, Had a question about your comment that the Bengals would be looking at a top RB in the 09 Draft? Wouldn't, given the past performance of Bengals 1st Round RB's, make more sense to get a top Offensive or Defensive Lineman who could be more of an impact quickly? A good RB can be found in a later round?

James Walker: Brian, a case can be made for both lines, but Cincinnati already has substantial money tied into those units. Offensive lineman Andrew Whitworth and defensive linemen Domata Peko and Robert Geathers all received new deals recently. Stacy Andrews also may get a shiny new contract in the offseason. Meanwhile, the Bengals have no threats and little money invested in running backs. Didn't I tell myself I wasn't going to talk NFL draft until at least January? Oops! Quit sending me draft questions, Bengals fans.


Chance from Columbus, OH, writes: Will Santonio play for the Steelers this weekend and will he face a suspension by the team or league or both? Thanx

James Walker: No chance for Holmes to play, Chance, because he was deactivated for Sunday's game against the New York Giants. Although that move wasn't classified as a suspension, it kind of is and I don't think the Steelers will do more on the situation. I can't say the same for the iron-fisted NFL, although it's very possible the swift, team-imposed discipline could prevent league intervention.


Ryan M writes: James is there a chance at a Chad Ocho Cinco future with the Baltimore Ravens next season?

James Walker: I doubt it. If the Bengals work out a trade next year, it will probably be to a team outside the division. That is what most teams do when moving star players. See Brett Favre for the most recent example.


Terrell from Baltimore writes: James, could you please explain to me how a recording device works? You mean I can't say one thing into a microphone-thingy one day and then flat out deny it the next?

James Walker: T. Sizzle, thanks for the e-mail but this blog is for AFC North fans. But I'll make an exception in this case. I'm around you guys enough to know that you probably overstated some things. I understand. But it will pass over in time, although I do have a feeling this will be the big topic in December when your team plays the Steelers for a second time.


Aaron from Cincinnati writes: Talked to you at the bagel shop in cincy, just wondering which young guys do you think marvin wants to get a good look at, and is that going to start taking priority over winning?

James Walker: Hey Aaron, I remember you. It was fun combing the streets of Cincinnati last weekend and talking to frustrated Bengals fans. I'm working on a future story (hint, hint) but it was pushed back with such a crazy week in the division (suspensions, bounties, fines). The Bengals, first and foremost, want to get a look at their young receivers Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell. T.J. Houshmandzadeh is going to be an unrestricted free agent and the Bengals also might want to see what they can get in a trade for Ocho Cinco. Both receivers are over 30 on a winless team and it's time to rebuild.

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