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Two days into what had been an impressive draft for the Cincinnati Bengals, ESPN's Tedy Bruschi said, "If there was a year they can win the division, it's this year." Herm Edwards raised expectations even higher, predicting the Bengals would win the AFC North by two games.

Did the Bengals do enough this offseason to surpass the Super Bowl champion Baltimore Ravens? The answer lies with quarterback Andy Dalton.

The Bengals can take the next step only if Dalton does. Over the course of three days in the NFL draft, Cincinnati did everything it could to help the offense and its third-year starting quarterback. In turn, it increased the pressure on Dalton to deliver in the red zone, on third downs and in the playoffs.

It started in the first round when the Bengals passed on drafting a strong safety, the team's most pressing need, in favor of taking Notre Dame's Tyler Eifert, the best tight end in the draft. Before the second round, the Bengals re-signed free-agent right tackle Andre Smith, which brought back all five starters from the NFL's second-best pass-blocking offensive line. Then, with its first pick in the second round, Cincinnati made North Carolina's speedy Giovani Bernard the first running back taken in this year's draft.

Two poor performances in the playoffs have raised questions whether Dalton is a franchise quarterback. The Bengals should be able to determine that this year after adding these playmakers.

Dalton now has another big target inside the 20-yard line with Eifert. He has an exciting checkdown option with Bernard, a luxury that Joe Flacco has enjoyed for years with Ray Rice. This is in addition to throwing to two Pro Bowl players, wide receiver A.J. Green and tight end Jermaine Gresham, and handing the ball off to grind-it-out back BenJarvus Green-Ellis.

There is no reason for this offense to rank 22nd in the NFL or flame out in the playoffs, as it did last year. I'm not the only one saying that, either.

"There shouldn’t be any excuses,” Dalton told reporters this week. “The players we already have and adding these guys is just going to make the offense better. So I expect us to take the next step. I expect us to improve from where we were last year. Time will tell, but we’ve got the right attitude going in and the way we’ve been working. I don’t expect any less.”

Right now, Dalton is a good quarterback, not a great one. He's right in the middle of the pack of NFL starters. Dalton has potential and a lot of qualities that you can't teach quarterbacks. He's smart. He has a feel for reading defenses. He has great anticipation to throw the ball even before his receiver breaks out of his route.

In his first two years, Dalton has done something that hadn't been accomplished in Cincinnati in more than three decades -- lead the Bengals to the playoffs in back-to-back years. He also has thrown 47 touchdowns in 32 career games. The only quarterbacks who have passed for more in their first two seasons in the NFL are Dan Marino (68) and Peyton Manning (52).

But in a division with Ben Roethlisberger and Joe Flacco, two quarterbacks who have combined for 19 playoff wins and three Super Bowl titles, a quarterback is going to be judged by the postseason. Dalton is 0-2 in the playoffs and is a major reason for those defeats. He threw three interceptions in his first playoff game in the 2011 postseason (including a critical pick returned for a touchdown by J.J. Watt) and failed to complete half of his throws in his second postseason game in the 2012 playoffs.

Dalton knows he has to be better than no touchdowns and four interceptions in two playoff games. He knows he has to complete more than 47.5 percent of his passes on third down. He knows the Bengals must improve from being the NFL's 16th-best red zone offense. And he knows he can't commit 20 turnovers (16 interceptions, four fumbles) and have four of them returned for touchdowns as he did last season.

What impresses me the most about Dalton is how he handles criticism. When he was getting bashed for a lack of arm strength last season, he showed swagger that's not often seen in young quarterbacks. Dalton handled the addition of these young playmakers on offense the same way.

“I don’t feel more pressure,” Dalton said. “I expect to be better this year. Regardless if we didn’t get anybody, I would still expect to be better. The more weapons we have, the better I feel.”

I get the feeling that the Bengals want Dalton to feel pressure this year, which is a different approach. Last year, coach Marvin Lewis said he didn't want Dalton to listen to criticism because the team had no doubts in him. But in March, offensive coordinator Jay Gruden set a different tone, saying Dalton has "got a long way to go."

"He’s done some great things for a second-year quarterback, won a lot of games and thrown some good touchdown passes, but we feel like he has not come close to his potential," Gruden said.

It's time for Dalton to live up to that potential. The Bengals return a top-10 defense and added talented young weapons on offense. Everything is set up for the Bengals to go from a playoff team to a Super Bowl contender. All they need is a quarterback to take them there.

The Cincinnati Bengals' re-signing of right tackle Andre Smith shouldn't get lost in what has been another strong draft for the franchise. How the Bengals got their way in this deal shouldn't be overlooked as well.

Smith told reporters that both sides won because he's back in Cincinnati. But the Bengals are the big winners. They brought back their top free agent on offense and they did it on their terms even though it took longer than everyone expected.

Cincinnati signed Smith to a three-year, $18 million deal Friday night, according to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter. The $6 million per-season average is much less than the reported $9 million Smith had been seeking. It's also slightly less than what two other right tackles received this offseason: the Colts' Gosder Cherilus ($6.9 million average) and the Vikings' Phil Loadholt ($6.25 million).

It's even more of a bargain when you consider Smith was graded as the best right tackle in the NFL last season. So, why weren't teams lined up for Smith this year? It became obvious that teams were leery of giving big money to Smith, who struggled early in his career and played better as it got closer to his contract year. It was legitimate for teams to ask whether Smith would be just as motivated after he got a new contract.

This is where the Bengals were smart again with Smith. Instead of giving him a longer-term contract (which would have required more guaranteed money), the Bengals signed him to a three-year deal. By keeping it shorter, the Bengals know Smith will have to play his best if he wants to get that $9 million per-year average on his next contract, when he'll be 29.

By Smith signing before the Bengals made their first pick in the second round, one could speculate that Smith agreed to a deal because he was concerned about the Bengals drafting his replacement. Bengals coach Marvin Lewis said the deal finally got done because Smith got more involved in negotiations this past week.

"Andre has for the last week taken the bull by the horns," Lewis told the team's official website. "I think he's grown up a little bit. He thinks he's a smart businessman who knows what's going on and in some ways he had to be educated about it. But he had to take control and I think he grew into that, and that's a good thing."

To be clear, Smith grew into a role. His weight apparently remained the same.

"He came back the way he was supposed to look like when he showed up. That's what he's supposed to do," Lewis said. "He's been working his butt off and he's worked some of his butt off."

In the first half-hour of the second round, the Cincinnati Bengals crossed off two needs on offense.

Just before making their pick, the Bengals reached a deal to retain right tackle Andre Smith. Then, Cincinnati used the 37th overall pick (the one from the Carson Palmer trade) on North Carolina's Giovani Bernard, who becomes the first running back taken in the draft. It's the latest a running back has ever been taken in the NFL draft.

Some might be surprised that the Bengals chose Bernard over Alabama's Eddie Lacy, who had been the top-rated back by many draft experts. But there was a report last month that Bengals coach Marvin Lewis showed particular interest in Bernard's pro-day workout.

The Bengals are looking to get more catches out of their receivers, and Bernard is an effective pass catcher. He has good focus and hands, which helped him catch 92 passes over his final two seasons with the Tar Heels.

With Smith back, the Bengals return all of their starters on offense. Smith was expected to re-sign with the Bengals, but it look longer than anyone expected.

The Cincinnati Bengals had hoped to get a deal done with offensive tackle Andre Smith before the draft. But, with the NFL draft to begin in a matter of hours, it looks like there will a question mark at the Bengals' right tackle spot.

According to the Bengals' official website, there was no imminent deal between the team and Smith, who was rated the best right tackle in the NFL last season.

Bengals coach Marvin Lewis told reporters last week that the status of Smith isn't going to affect the draft. But it has to alter the draft plans.

If the Bengals have Smith and Andrew Whitworth at the tackle spots, they're not going to use the No. 21 overall pick on Alabama's D.J. Fluker. Now, with Smith unsigned, taking a tackle has to be a consideration, whether it's Fluker or Florida State's Menelik Watson.

The fallback option for the Bengals is promoting Anthony Collins. He's a solid backup but he's a step back from Smith or a first-round pick.

There is still time for the Bengals and Smith to get a deal done before the draft. There's just not a lot of it.

Amid reports that talks with James Harrison have hit a snag, Cincinnati Bengals coach Marvin Lewis remains hopeful that the team can sign the former Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker.

"I think both sides would like to get something concluded. I think it will happen shortly at some point here," Lewis said, via the team's official website. "Not long. Because I think everybody realizes when we go into the draft, then it becomes different situations."

Honestly, I don't see any reason for a draft deadline for either Harrison or Karlos Dansby, who is also on the Bengals' radar. Both are over 30 and are likely short-term solutions at outside linebacker. Even if they sign Harrison or Dansby, the Bengals should still consider taking an outside linebacker (perhaps Kansas State's Arthur Brown) early in the draft to groom him for a season before promoting to the starting lineup.

But I do like the fact that Lewis is telling Harrison the deal needs to happen by the draft or the situation becomes "different." As I've said before, the Bengals have the leverage here, and have the right to apply pressure to speed up a decision.

Lewis also wants right tackle Andre Smith signed before the draft. So far, the sides are having trouble agreeing on numbers. Smith reportedly was seeking $9 million per season, but that won't happen now, especially with little recent movement in the offensive tackle market.

"We'd still like to get Andre signed. We're getting down to the time of that," Lewis said. "We just feel it's important. He wants to get it done. But we just have to get his representation and our people to come to an agreement that we get him back here and get him going. He's anxious for it to occur, and hopefully that occurs here quickly."

Baltimore Ravens

Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco has agreed to portray the late Johnny Unitas in an upcoming film called "Unitas We Stand," according to Joe Unitas, Johnny Unitas' son. Joe Unitas told the Baltimore Sun that Flacco will play his father playing football in the final scenes depicting the Colts' 1958 championship game victory.

But not everyone in the Unitas family was thrilled with the selection of Flacco. A grandson of Johnny Unitas, J.C. Unitas, called it an "embarrassing choice" on his Facebook page (via the Clarion-Ledger).

Ravens offensive lineman Ramon Harewood hosted more than 100 children ages 11 to 18 during the weekend for his "Big Mon Elite Athlete Development Camp" in his home country of Barbados. “We had a great camp,” Harewood told the Baltimore Sun. “We had a great turnout and the kids had a good attitude and put in some excellent work. My main message to the kids was about the recipe for success and the only way to get it done is through hard work with no shortcuts."

Speaking of hard work, Ravens defensive lineman Bryan Hall is shedding weight to take on a new role, reports The Baltimore Sun. Coach John Harbaugh has asked Hall to give inside linebacker a try, and Hall is all for it.

Cincinnati Bengals

Is right tackle Andre Smith about to be done in Cincinnati? Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk gives reasons why.

Cleveland Browns

Greg Little and Dan Gronkowski spent Friday night at "A Prom To Remember," an event for Northeast Ohio children battling cancer, the team's website reported.

Many of the kids in attendance are going through chemotherapy or were too ill to attend their schools' proms. Through the generosity of local businesses, these kids had the opportunity to attend free of charge, including everything from dresses, tuxedos, salon services, prom photos, food and limousine transportation.

Pittsburgh Steelers

With limited salary-cap space this offseason, Gregg Rosenthal of NFL.com writes that the 2013 NFL draft is vital for the Steelers.

Inside linebacker Stevenson Sylvester says he's appreciative to have re-signed with the Steelers, per the team's website.

It's no surprise that there's a lot of interest in what the Cleveland Browns will do at the No. 6 overall pick. Browns draft talk dominated this week's chat and included a question about the team's bigger need on defense. Here are the highlights from the AFC North chat ...

Darrell (Dallas Tx): Which need is bigger for the Browns with no second-round pick, free safety or cornerback? They need both.

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Corner. At safety, they can plug in Tashaun Gipson or Eric Hagg. Having Buster Skrine at corner is a scary thought.

Carlos (Hobbs, NM): With all these vets getting released by the Ravens, are there any more players that you see the ravens cutting?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): If the Ravens need more cap room, they will approach fullback Vonta Leach about taking a pay cut. He is due to make $3 million this year. It could lead to his release.

Bryant (Akron): I'm upset to see the Browns not bringing back Josh Cribbs or Phil Dawson. What do you think was the main reasoning behind the decisions especially Cribbs?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): New regime wants to get fresh start. Dawson and Cribbs have been the faces associated with Browns since their return to the NFL. Also, the Browns wanted to get a younger kicker and they have a replacement for Cribbs in Travis Benjamin.

Quammy (Cincinnati, OH): Given the current uncertainty at the Bengals safety position, courtesy of Taylor May looking like a chicken with his head cut off in coverage, what are the possibilities/interest the Bengals have in Charles Woodson? Seems like this free agency has been filled with bargains, and the Bengals love bargains.

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Don't see this happening. I get the feeling the Bengals would turn to Chris Crocker again if they can't draft a starting safety.

Joe Routson (Monroe, OH): Is there any chance the Browns pick up a starting CB, ILB, or safety before the draft via free agency or trade?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): There is no corner out there right now. You want Quentin Jammer? I don't see the Browns making any more moves before the draft. If they don't address these spots, they can still go with Robertson at ILB and either Gipson or Hagg at safety.

Duron, Columbus [via mobile]: Thanks for all the work. I know it's probably getting old, but any update on the Bengals resigning Andre Smith? Thanks.

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): When I talked this week to head coach Marvin Lewis, he sounded pretty optimistic that it would get done before the draft.

Jason (Santa Monica): The Steelers must see something in Alameda Ta'amu if they are still keeping him around. Any chance you see him starting at defensive tackle and Steve McLendon moving to Ziggy Hood's spot at DE? Ta'amu was considered a top-three DT in the draft last year

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): There is no chance that Ta'amu is a starter this year. He didn't even get on the field last year. The Steelers will start McLendon this year and have to determine whether they want to invest in him or go with Ta'amu in 2014.

James,nc [via mobile]: What's the thing about Eddie Lacy that make people say he is not a good first-round pick? I would love to see him in Steelers uniform.

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Lacy lacks the speed that you want for a playmaking running back. He runs tough and has good balance. But Lacy isn't dynamic. He's sort of a poor man's Frank Gore.

Danny sc [via mobile]: Do you think the recent moves by the Bengals at the quarterback position were designed to send a message to Andy Dalton and that this is his make-or-break year?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): If either John Skelton or Josh Johnson is a threat to Dalton, the Bengals are in trouble. Big trouble.

The Baltimore Ravens reportedly had a pre-draft visit with Alabama offensive tackle D.J. Fluker. He's the prototypical mauling right tackle, which isn't the Ravens' biggest need on the offensive line.

If the Ravens are going to address the line in the draft, the priority is finding a left tackle. Of course, finding someone to hold down the most important position on the offensive line is easier said than done. Michael Oher has played left tackle in the past, but he is better suited to start on the right side. So, if Fluker unexpectedly slipped to the Ravens, Oher would move back to left tackle.

Fluker would be a better fit for the Cincinnati Bengals, especially if they fail to re-sign Andre Smith. Like Smith, Fluker is an Alabama product. Unlike Smith, Fluker relies on power as a blocker. Take a look at ESPN's Sport Science, which demonstrates his power when pulling and when he goes against bull rushes.

The Cincinnati Bengals had the most salary-cap room in the NFL when free agency started, and they still have a huge amount now. The Bengals showed no interest in signing wide receiver Wes Welker or safety Dashon Goldson.

The knee-jerk reaction is that the Bengals missed an opportunity to get a step ahead of the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers because Cincinnati didn't add players at a time when those teams were losing players.

If you talk to Bengals coach Marvin Lewis, nearly everything has gone according to plan. What exactly is that plan? The Bengals are looking to beat the Ravens and Steelers at their own game, which means building a team through the draft instead of buying one in March.

You can accuse the Bengals of being cheap. You can criticize them for not being aggressive in free agency. You just can’t knock their process, because it’s working.

The Bengals have been to the postseason in three of the past four seasons -- which is more times than Pittsburgh over that span -- and they’re doing it with homegrown players.

Cincinnati may start as many as 12 players this season who came from the previous four drafts alone (if offensive tackle Andre Smith is re-signed and cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick beats out Terence Newman). That doesn’t include linebacker Vontaze Burfict, who joined the Bengals after going undrafted last year.

The fingerprints of recent drafts are almost as pronounced as those stripes on the Bengals' helmets. Their quarterback (Andy Dalton) and leading receiver (A.J. Green) were drafted two years ago. Their sacks leader (defensive tackle Geno Atkins) was taken in the fourth round in 2010. Their franchise player (defensive end Michael Johnson) was picked in the third round in 2009.

If you were waiting for the Bengals to make noise this offseason, it’s going to come later this month. That’s when the Bengals have three of the first 53 picks in the draft.

“There has been plenty of history in the National Football League of teams going out and spending a lot of cap dollars on other people’s players and then not really fitting together,” Lewis told ESPN.com this week. “So let’s look at the ones that are successful year after year, because those are the ones we want to model ourselves after."

The teams that the Bengals are modeling themselves after are the Ravens and Steelers. Lewis believes he wouldn't have been considered for the Bengals' head-coaching job a decade ago if he hadn't worked for the Steelers (linebackers coach 1992-95) and Ravens (defensive coordinator 1996-2001).

Now, Lewis and the Bengals have closed the draft gap. In 2010, when the Ravens' top two picks were linebacker Sergio Kindle and nose tackle Terrence Cody, the Bengals selected tight end Jermaine Gresham and defensive end Carlos Dunlap before taking Atkins with the 120th overall pick. The Bengals' previous two draft classes have totaled 112 starts compared to the Steelers' 38 starts (although that number is smaller because of injuries to guard David DeCastro and tackle Marcus Gilbert).

These successful drafts are a reflection of the relationship between Lewis and owner Mike Brown, who has the final say on draft day.

"Mike and I’ve been doing this for so long now, I think he has a much better feel for the guy that I feel best about," Lewis said.

There are a couple of good reasons the Bengals don't spend much on other teams' free agents. In 2010, Cincinnati got burned after bringing in wide receivers Antonio Bryant and Terrell Owens. The other factor is the Bengals' desire to keep their own players, who they drafted and developed.

The Bengals used more than $30 million in salary-cap space this offseason to retain their own free agents, including four starters as well as kicker Mike Nugent and punter Kevin Huber. The team also placed an $11.1 million franchise tag on Johnson, which isn't really thrifty.

"If you think about bringing in someone from the outside, either he has to play to your scheme or you have to be ready to adjust to him," Lewis said. "There is going to be a time lapse until he gets comfortable."

Even before free agency started, Lewis repeatedly said the goal was to keep the Bengals' own free agents. The Bengals were never going to be the next Philadelphia Eagles or Washington Redskins.

When Lewis sat down with ownership, he said, there was only one free agent from another team who interested him. Although he declined to name the player, the educated guess is running back Reggie Bush, who signed with the Detroit Lions.

"We reached out and he wasn't willing to compete and share time," Lewis said of the targeted free agent.

By focusing on their own free agents, the Bengals probably will return all but two starters from last season's No. 6 defense. Cincinnati could bring back every starter on offense if it can re-sign Smith.

The Bengals need to resolve the situation with Smith over the next couple of weeks or prepare to draft his replacement. Smith was reportedly seeking a contract that averaged $9 million per season, but he won't come close to that now.

"I think it will get done here in short order," Lewis said. "Expectations were set higher and now things need to be where they are. Unfortunately, sometimes things don't work out in ways people planned it out. So there's got to be a come to reality. Now it's time to go to work. He's still a young enough guy that there's going to be a next time around for him."

Whether or not the Bengals sign Smith, they're still in an enviable position. Cincinnati has the 21st overall pick and two picks in the second round (37th and 53rd overall). The additional pick came from the Raiders in the Carson Palmer trade, and Oakland has dealt Palmer before the Bengals even get to use the pick .

The Bengals can take several different directions early in the draft: strong safety, speedy running back, wide receiver or outside linebacker. All Lewis knows is that the Bengals will add three starter-caliber players, which will get them closer to reaching the same championship level as the Ravens and Steelers.

"Our goal is to go beyond just making the playoffs. Our goal is to be world champions," Lewis said. "In my time frame here, we've got three teams that have done that out of our division. So the bar is high and we've got to keep working hard to achieve that."

Cincinnati Bengals offensive tackle Andre Smith was ranked No. 4 in the AFC North's top 20 free agents in the division. He was considered the top right tackle on the market as well.

Then why is Smith still unsigned 20 days into free agency? It's obvious teams are leery of giving big money to Smith, who struggled early in his career and played better as it got closer to his contract year. It's legitimate for teams to ask whether Smith would be just as motivated once he gets a new contract.

Peter King of Sports Illustrated believes Smith's agents think the Bengals' current offer "stinks" and opens the door for another team to steal him. But another team could have had Smith for nearly three weeks and it hasn't happened.

With the amount of salary cap room that the Bengals have, they shouldn't lose Smith to anyone. Cincinnati has other options in free agency (Eric Winston) and in the draft (Alabama's D.J. Fluker and Florida State's Menelik Watson), but all would be a step down from Smith. The Bengals won't be able to find someone with the same athleticism as Smith, which is why he was a top-10 pick in 2009.

Smith reportedly was seeking $9 million per season when free agency began. He's not getting that now unless he hits the Ohio Lottery. What should Smith reasonably expect? Here are the agreements signed by the top three free-agent right tackles:

Gosder Cherilus, Colts: He signed a five-year, $34.5 million contract, which includes $15.5 million guaranteed and a $10 million signing bonus.

Sebastian Vollmer, Patriots: He signed a four-year, $17 million contract, which includes $8.25 million guaranteed and a $7 million signing bonus.

Phil Loadholt, Vikings: He signed a four-year, $25 million contract, which includes a $7 million signing bonus.

Based on those signings, the most that Smith can expect to get is just under $7 million per season.

It's 18 days into NFL free agency, and there's only five players on the AFC North top 20 list who remain unsigned. As always, click here for ESPN.com's free-agent tracker which will keep you up-to-date with all the moves from around the league.

Here is the rankings and where the players stand now (* -- unsigned):

1. Joe Flacco, Ravens QB: Signed a six-year, $120.6 million contract with the Ravens. The NFL-record deal includes $52 million guaranteed and a $29 million signing bonus.

2. Mike Wallace, ex-Steelers WR: Signed a five-year, $60 million contract with the Dolphins. The deal includes $30 million guaranteed and an $11 million signing bonus.

3. Ed Reed, ex-Ravens FS: Signed a three-year, $15 million contract with the Texans. The deal includes $6 million guaranteed and a $2 million signing bonus.

*4. Andre Smith, Bengals OT: Unsigned. Smith remains a priority for the Bengals. He has surprisingly drawn little interest in free agency.

5. Michael Johnson, Bengals DE: Signed a one-year, $11.2 million franchise tag with the Bengals.

6. Dannell Ellerbe, ex-Ravens ILB: Signed a five-year, $34.75 million contract with the Dolphins. The deal includes $14 million guaranteed and a $7 million signing bonus.

7. Paul Kruger, ex-Ravens OLB: Signed a five-year, $40.5 million contract with the Browns. The deal includes $20 million guaranteed and a $6 million signing bonus.

8. Phil Dawson, ex-Browns K: Signed a one-year, $2.35 million contract with the 49ers. The deal includes a $1 million signing bonus.

9. Dennis Pitta, Ravens TE: Restricted free agent received second-round tender ($2.023 million).

*10. James Harrison, Steelers OLB: Unsigned. Harrison has to be rethinking his decision not to take a pay cut with the Steelers. He's only taken one visit, and the Ravens signed Elvis Dumervil during it. Could he end up in Arizona like so many other ex-Steelers?

*11. Josh Cribbs, Browns WR-PR: Unsigned. The Cardinals are waiting until Cribbs is fully recovered from meniscus surgery before signing him.

12. Bernard Pollard, ex-Ravens safety: Signed a one-year, $2 million contract with the Titans. The deal includes a $500,000 signing bonus.

13. Keenan Lewis, ex-Steelers CB: Signed a five-year, $25.5 million contract with the Saints. The deal includes $10.5 million guaranteed and a $6 million signing bonus.

14. Cary Williams, ex-Ravens CB: Signed a three-year, $17 million contract with the Eagles. The deal includes $10.5 million guaranteed and a $5 million signing bonus.

15. Manny Lawson, ex-Bengals OLB: Signed a four-year, $12 million contract with the Bills. The deal includes a $3 million signing bonus.

*16. Terence Newman, Bengals CB: Unsigned. Newman announced on Twitter on Friday night that he has re-signed with the Bengals. No official word from the Bengals yet.

*17. Emmanuel Sanders, Steelers WR: Restricted free agent visited the Patriots but has yet to sign an offer sheet. The Steelers have first right of refusal and would receive a third-round pick as compensation if they didn't match the offer.

18. Rey Maualuga, Bengals LB: Signed a two-year, $6.5 million contract with the Bengals. The deal includes a $2.5 million signing bonus.

19. Adam Jones, Bengals CB: Signed a three-year contract with the Bengals that pays him $3.3 million in base salaries.

20. Benjamin Watson, ex-Browns TE: Signed a three-year, $4.95 million contract with the Saints. The deal includes a $1.2 million signing bonus.

Should the Bengals take an offensive lineman in the first round to replace Andre Smith? Will the Steelers select tight end Tyler Eifert? What are the chances of the Ravens taking a wide receiver in the first round? Are the Browns targeting cornerback Dee Milliner? These were all topics in the AFC North weekly chat. Here are some highlights ...

Chris - Sandusky [via mobile]: Jamison, Is there any chance the Bengals extend defensive tackle Geno Atkins and defensive end Carlos Dunlap now or will they wait yo see how the year plays out?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Both should get done before the season begins. The Bengals have the cap room to do it. Now, it comes down to being proactive.

Andy in Hagerstown (Maryland): What about linebacker Karlos Dansby for the Ravens? We need to fill that position and Dansby is quick enough to cover.

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Because there are ILBs out there (Dansby and McClain), the Ravens could wait until after the draft to get one. Baltimore can see if an highly rated ILB falls to the bottom of the first round. If not, there should be options out there post-draft.

Sean (Cincinnati): Would D.J. Fluker or Menelik Watson be a better fit for the Bengals at 21 assuming both are available?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Fluker isn't the same athlete as Andre Smith. But Fluker has a lot of power. A prototypical right tackle.

Andrew (Ashland, ky) [via mobile]: The Bengals want Andre Smith back but for less than what he wanted to sign for. He's clearly not going to get the reported $9 million per season that he wants. Is the fact that he is still unsigned a case of pride or is there that much competition for the big guy?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): I haven't heard of another team interested in Andre Smith. It seems like it's just a matter of time before the Bengals sign him. And you're right, he's not going to get $9M per season.

George (Brooklyn): With Huff now on board, what is the percent chance the Ravens take a WR in the first round?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): It certainly increases the chances of it. Receiver is the biggest need on offense. OT, ILB, DT are also possibilities.

Aaron (DC): Hey Jamison, Gun to your head, does Weeden or Campbell start in September?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Weeden. Now, please lower your weapon.

Ben (Afton, Va): Odds of Bryant McKinnie coming back to Baltimore at LT??

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Would only be for a bargain price. It has to be a no-risk signing for Ravens, who can't trust McKinnie will be in shape.

Mike from Canton, Ohio [via mobile]: What is the next step for the Browns as for improving the roster?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Browns need to find a starting CB before the draft unless they plan on targeting Dee Milliner.

Matt (Pittsburgh) [via mobile]: Chances Steelers sign running back Ahmad Bradshaw?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): A lot depends on whether he has recovered from offseason foot surgery.

tim (NJ): Is there any chance the Ravens open the season at home on Sunday night? Seems unfair to tak ethis chance away from the Ravens fans!

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): No. Ravens want to play on Thursday even if it means being on the road. They want that extra few days off heading into Week 2.

Mike (Pittsburgh): Do you think Jonathan Dwyer is a capable starter or do the steelers need to draft a HB. also do you think they will use Isaac Redman as a third down or try to draft another guy like Rainey?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): I thought Dwyer showed flashes, but his performance in 2012 told me that he is a backup-level running back. Steelers need to find a starter.

Franky Z. (Chico ca.): If the Steelers take Tyler Eifert in the first round, great pick, good pick, wth are they doing pick?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Not sure if Eifert is worth that high of a pick (he's a better value at the bottom of the first round) but I would understand the reasoning behind the pick. Heath Miller is recovering from ACL surgery and he turns 31 during the season.

The Browns signed quarterback Jason Campbell to compete with Brandon Weeden for the starting job (a good move for Cleveland) and Ravens receiver-returner Jacoby Jones advanced past the first round in "Dancing With The Stars." You can say that it wasn't a typical Tuesday night for the AFC North blog. If you're not in the mood to chat about contemporary jazz moves, you'll be happy to move to the wake-up call ...

RAVENS: Raiders free-agent safety Michael Huff is scheduled to visit Baltimore later this week, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Huff visited Dallas on Monday but left without an offer from the cap-strapped Cowboys. The Ravens are looking for a replacement for Ed Reed, who signed with Houston last week, and team officials were impressed with Huff coming out of college. If Huff doesn't get a deal done with Baltimore, he'll head to Green Bay for a visit.

BENGALS: Based on the recent offensive-tackle signings, Joe Reedy of the Cincinnati Enquirer projects Andre Smith will sign a four-year deal in the $26 to $27 million range that includes between $7 million to $8 million in guaranteed money. Smith was reportedly looking for a deal that averaged $9 million per season. But he won't get that type of money now that the first wave of free agency is over. No one expected Smith to last this long on the open market.

STEELERS: Giants free-agent running back Ahmad Bradshaw is scheduled to visit the Steelers on Wednesday, according to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter. Bradshaw, 27, has been waiting to take a physical with teams because he had surgery to replace a screw in his right foot in late January. He told ESPN Radio that the Packers and Jets are also interested in him. The Steelers can't offer much because they're $2.5 million under the salary cap, but running backs are generally among the cheapest positions in free agency.

BROWNS: Oregon outside linebacker Dion Jordan and Oklahoma wide receiver Kenny Stills are among the prospects who have pre-draft visits lined up with the Browns, according to the Akron Beacon Journal. Jordan is considered a top-five prospect in the draft, and Stills is projected to go in the third or fourth round. Also, Arizona quarterback Matt Scott is set to visit the Browns in early April, the paper reported. Scott is expected to go in the fifth round or later.

This week, the AFC North blog will be taking a look at what each team has done now that the first wave of NFL free agency is over.

CINCINNATI BENGALS

Signed (14 players): DE Michael Johnson (franchise tag), LB Rey Maualuga, DE Robert Geathers, CB Adam Jones, K Mike Nugent, P Kevin Huber, DE Wallace Gilberry, RB Cedric Peerman, WR Brandon Tate, OT Dennis Roland, TE Richard Quinn, LS Clark Harris and QB Josh Johnson (Browns). OLB Aaron Maybin (Jets) was also signed in January.

Lost (five players): LB Manny Lawson (Bills), QB Bruce Gradkowski (Steelers), K Josh Brown (Giants), DT Pat Sims (Raiders) and LB Dan Skuta (49ers).

Top remaining free agents: OT Andre Smith, CB Terence Newman, LB Thomas Howard and S Chris Crocker.

What's next: Just as it was at the start of free agency, the Bengals' priority is to retain Smith and Newman. Smith has surprisingly drawn little interest from other teams, which shows the Bengals were right not to put the franchise tag on him. It appears that teams are hesitant to give him a big contract because of questionable work ethic in the past. Even if the Bengals are unable to keep Smith, they can find a starting right tackle in the first round of the draft.

Cincinnati would also like to hold onto Newman, one of the pleasant surprises on last year's team. Newman, who said he would decide between the Bengals and Raiders last week, provides reliable insurance if Dre Kirkpatrick isn't ready to start this season. You can expect the Bengals to add a few more lower-tier free agents from other teams to fill out the roster, but the biggest move the team can make is signing defensive tackle Geno Atkins (a free agent next year) to a contract extension.

Existing needs: Right tackle, strong safety, outside linebacker.

One theme in the AFC North weekly chat was offensive lines. Are the Bengals re-signing Andre Smith? Who is starting at left tackle for the Ravens? Does it make sense for the Steelers to go after Sebastian Vollmer? You can find those answers and more in these highlights ...

Jim (Ohio): What are you hearing about the Bengals being able to resign Andre Smith?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): It sounds good. Teams are apparently worried about giving Smith too much money. There's questions about whether he'll still be motivated. If Bengals don't re-sign him, there are plenty of options in the draft. But none are as athletic as Smith.

Chuck (Cincy): Can you tell Who Dey Nation to calm down about not being aggressive in free agency? I'd rather extend Geno Atkins, Carlos Dunlap and Michael Johnson; re-sign Smith and Adam Jones than go spend big bucks on outsiders.

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): I agree that extending Atkins, Dunlap and Johnson should be a priority. The only criticism I have is the failure to address strong safety in free agency. Yes, the Bengals can draft someone to start. But getting someone in free agency doesn't force you to take one because it's less of a need.

Stlrfan743 (gettysburg pa): is there a chance that James Harrison is back with the Black and Gold this season? Has there been any conversations about this being a possibility? I know the Steelers brass expressed that they wanted to keep James.

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): There is always a chance, but I don't see it happening. Harrison would't take a pay cut and I don't see him coming back at a price that would be even lower than the original pay cut. Plus, when the Steelers part with their big name players, they don't typically bring them back. Look at Hines Ward, James Farrior, Aaron Smith.

curtis (ohio): Do you see the browns signing any defensive backs or safeties any time soon?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): The Browns made a good run at Falcons free-agent CB Brent Grimes. They reportedly sent a private jet for him. That would be a big signing for Cleveland. But there's talk that Grimes is thinking of staying with the Falcons. Bucs and Dolphins are also interested in him.

Michael (Cincinnati) [via mobile]: Pittsburgh won't panic. Come draft day the perfect player lands at No. 17 for them. Never fails.

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Well, Ziggy Hood and Cam Heyward don't really fall into the "perfect" category.

Average Joe (mean, median, ): As a first round pick is Ziggy a disappointment, a bust, or meets expectations? If you go with exceedes expectations, you got some explaining to do.

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): I would say disappointment. He would fall into the bust category if he never developed into a capable starter.

Mark (Houston): Any word on which way Terence Newman appears to be leaning?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): No word on where he's leaning. But Newman is close to Mike Zimmer. That has to weigh into the decision. But he also knows the Bengals want to get Kirkpatrick into the starting lineup at some point this season.

Aaron (DC): Afternoon, Jamison. Do you see the Browns making any more moves in free agency, or do you think they're content to wait for the draft to try to plug the rest of their holes?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): They'll have to address cornerback in some fashion, whether it's a top-level guy like Brent Grimes or a stop-gap like New England's Kyle Arrington. You can't go into the draft with that hole there.

Peter G (New Berlin, WI): Do you think the Browns overpaid for Kruger and Bryant?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Kruger, a definite yes. $20M guaranteed for someone who has 15.5 career sacks. Bryant, no. Teams around the league know his value. That's why the Patriots wanted him as well.

Shane (Charlotte): Do you think it makes sense for the Steelers to try and sign offensive tackle Sebastian Vollmer?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): I think the Steelers were interested in Jake Long because he was such a significant upgrade. Not sure if Pittsburgh thinks the same about Vollmer.

Great8 (College Park): Who's the early favorite to play LT for the Ravens this year?

Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Michael Oher. Remember, you asked the question. Don't get upset with the answer.