AFC North: Atlanta Falcons
Morning take: Jimmy Smith vs. Roddy White
September, 1, 2011
9/01/11
8:30
AM ET
By
James Walker | ESPN.com
Here are the most interesting stories Thursday in the AFC North:
- Atlanta Falcons Pro Bowl receiver Roddy White will provide a good test for Baltimore Ravens first-round pick Jimmy Smith.
- Will the Cincinnati Bengals only carry two quarterbacks?
- Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Doug Legursky will be the team's starting guard this season.
- Young players on the Cleveland Browns will try to impress against the Chicago Bears.
AFC North update: Whitworth's extension
August, 31, 2011
8/31/11
6:00
PM ET
By
James Walker | ESPN.com
Here are the latest happenings Wednesday evening in the AFC North:
- The Cincinnati Bengals extended left tackle Andrew Whitworth's contract through 2015.
- Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker James Harrison, who had offseason back surgery, is not 100 percent.
- Who is in and who is out for the Baltimore Ravens Thursday night against the Atlanta Falcons?
- Former Ravens offensive lineman Oniel Cousins is not expected to start for the Cleveland Browns.
- Here is a recap of this week's chat on the AFC North.
The Pittsburgh Steelers were the last AFC North team to complete Week 3 of the preseason on Saturday night.
Here are some observations:
Steelers 34, Falcons 16
The Good
Here are some observations:
Steelers 34, Falcons 16
The Good
- Receiver Antonio Brown continues to be Pittsburgh's star of the preseason. The second-year standout lit up Atlanta with four catches for 137 yards and two touchdowns. Brown's two scores were for 77 and 44 yards. Brown had a huge reception in last season's playoffs to help Pittsburgh beat the Baltimore Ravens. He is carrying that momentum and confidence into this season. After Saturday's stellar performance, Brown likely has the edge over veteran Jerricho Cotchery to become Pittsburgh's No. 3 receiver.
- Pittsburgh backup cornerback Crezdon Butler showed playmaking ability against Atlanta. Butler returned an interception 95 yards for a touchdown at the start of the fourth quarter. Butler was also active. He led the Steelers with nine tackles and made a big impression. He could be one of Pittsburgh's top reserves in the secondary.
- Steelers backup quarterback Byron Leftwich broke his arm Saturday and reportedly could miss the entire season. Leftwich had a good chance to be Pittsburgh's No. 2 quarterback. Now, that job goes to Dennis Dixon and reduces his chance for a trade. The biggest goal of the preseason is to prevent injuries. Leftwich and top cornerback Ike Taylor (broken thumb) suffered big injuries in two of Pittsburgh's three preseason games.
- Pittsburgh’s first-team defense gave up chunks of yards to Falcons No. 1 receiver Roddy White. He recorded eight receptions for 101 yards and a touchdown. The Steelers didn't make any significant upgrades to the secondary in the offseason and teams will continue to attack Pittsburgh through the air this season.
Three things to watch for in Pittsburgh's preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons Saturday night. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. ET.
Who is the No. 3 receiver? One of the few position battles in Pittsburgh is the No. 3 receiver role. Second-year player Antonio Brown and veteran receiver Jerricho Cotchery are both playing well. Steelers offensive coordinator Bruce Arians likes to use multiple wide receivers. Therefore, the No. 3 receiver is important. Brown and Cotchery need to separate themselves in the next two games.
Keep forcing turnovers: The Steelers' defense was in midseason form last week against the Philadelphia Eagles. Pittsburgh forced four turnovers, which included three interceptions by the first-team defense. The Steelers will get another test for about three quarters Saturday with quarterback Matt Ryan and the explosive Atlanta offense.
Work on no-huddle offense: The Steelers are expected to spend the final two weeks working on their no-huddle offense. This has been an effective change of pace for Pittsburgh in the past. The Steelers will experiment with it to determine if it should be a bigger part of the offense. Pittsburgh starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who has an unconventional, backyard style, seems to thrive in the no-huddle. Keep an eye on this development.
Who is the No. 3 receiver? One of the few position battles in Pittsburgh is the No. 3 receiver role. Second-year player Antonio Brown and veteran receiver Jerricho Cotchery are both playing well. Steelers offensive coordinator Bruce Arians likes to use multiple wide receivers. Therefore, the No. 3 receiver is important. Brown and Cotchery need to separate themselves in the next two games.
Keep forcing turnovers: The Steelers' defense was in midseason form last week against the Philadelphia Eagles. Pittsburgh forced four turnovers, which included three interceptions by the first-team defense. The Steelers will get another test for about three quarters Saturday with quarterback Matt Ryan and the explosive Atlanta offense.
Work on no-huddle offense: The Steelers are expected to spend the final two weeks working on their no-huddle offense. This has been an effective change of pace for Pittsburgh in the past. The Steelers will experiment with it to determine if it should be a bigger part of the offense. Pittsburgh starting quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who has an unconventional, backyard style, seems to thrive in the no-huddle. Keep an eye on this development.
Various preseason games and traveling to training camps prevented me from putting together a recent mailbag. Therefore, we never posted our latest "Homer of the Week."
This week's award goes to a Cleveland Browns fan.
This week's award goes to a Cleveland Browns fan.
- Cory Hart from Shelby, Ohio, writes: After watching the first two preseason games I'm going to make a prediction: The Browns will go 10-6 this season and be the sixth seed in the playoffs. They will then beat the New England Patriots in the first round but will ultimately lose to the Houston Texans, who will go to the Super Bowl but will lose to the Atlanta Falcons. Colt McCoy will throw for 3,800 yards and 28 TDs with 9 INTs and Peyton Hillis will rush for 1,500 yards with 13 TDs and catch for 700 yards with 7 TDs. That is how I see this year for my team.
Let's see what in our AFC North inbox this week.
Steven Velte from Baltimore writes: JW, why does Joe Flacco get so little respect around the league and Matt Ryan gets much more praise?
Walker: Steven, I don't have a clear answer. But I do have a "face of the franchise" theory involving these two quarterbacks. Both players are very close at this stage of their careers, but the difference is Flacco is not the face of the Ravens. Ray Lewis is. After that there's Ed Reed, Terrell Suggs, Haloti Ngata, etc. For the Falcons, Ryan is the face of the franchise. So I think he gets much more publicity and credit for his team's success, despite their statistics being almost identical the past three seasons.
Will from Sykesville, MD, wants to know what the chances are of Flacco beating Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers this year.
Walker: We opened that question up to our community this week, Will, and most believe it's not going to happen in 2011. I'm not ready to make any firm predictions, but I was a little surprised by the results. Flacco has been close in the past, Super Bowl runners-up usually struggle the following year and Baltimore's roster is stacked even before free agency. Injuries aside, I expect the Ravens and Steelers to compete for the AFC North title again. Flacco and the Ravens have their best shot to catch Pittsburgh at home in Week 1.
Rye Dalton from Encinitas, CA, wants to know if the Cleveland Browns would have any interest in the supplemental draft for Ohio State players.
Walker: Good question, Rye. The Browns have additional draft picks to spare in 2012 and need all the help they can get this year. So I would list the Browns as a potential candidate for the supplemental draft. The two players of interest for the Browns could be offensive tackle Mike Adams and tailback Dan Herron, because they both play positions where Cleveland lacks depth.
JMo from Bed Stuy wants to know if safety Darren Sharper could be a target for the Browns.
Walker: I don't see this as a good match, JMo. If Sharper plays next season, he's in the twilight of his career and probably wants to play for a contender. The Browns, in my opinion, are at least. ... OK I'm not going to say it this week. I don't want to upset those Browns fans who think their team will be Super Bowl contenders this year.
Michael Ricke from Kristiansand, Norway, wants to know why Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer would want out now.
Walker: Until Palmer speaks publicly, we won't have the full details. But reading the signs, Palmer is tired of the losing and has lost confidence in the Bengals' ability to field a championship-caliber team. Palmer, 31, gave Cincinnati his prime years and only has a few good seasons left. Palmer believes he has a better chance of winning a Super Bowl elsewhere. And after watching Cincinnati for the past 20 years, I don't think anyone can argue with Palmer's line of reasoning.
Christian from Phoenix wants to know what kind of offseason activities have Bengals players organized.
Walker: The Bengals have held a few gatherings, Christian, and the team will have organized practices for the next two weeks. The Bengals are a young, rebuilding team and need to get the work in.
Derrick from Rochester, NY, wants to know where Steelers safety Troy Polamalu ranks with some of the all-time great defenders.
Walker: Polamalu is definitely unique, and I think when his career is over, he will be a Hall of Famer. But it's hard to compare him with other all-time great defensive players like Lawrence Taylor, for example, until Polamalu's career is over.
Complaint department
Here are recent comments and complaints from our community.
Dustin from Pittsburgh writes: It's hard not to agree with Brett Kostoff's response. If you were in an abusive relationship for 20 years, would you stick around for another 20? Probably not. At some point you have to say enough is enough, cut your losses and move on. And we all know the Bengals have a lot of losses to cut.
Brandon Crawford from Sykesville, Md, writes: Sounds like Kostoff is making a lot of excuses. If you are a true fan you stick with your team through black and blue. Bottom line. This guy is a disgrace to all TRUE fans of the game.
Nick Diligente from Cleveland writes: I've been a fan for 30 years. After reading Brett Kostoff's response and listening to him compare it to the cable bill, I am starting to doubt my loyalty to the Browns. He really put it into a perspective the Browns fans should look at. Do you think the Ravens fans would let me move to Baltimore as Art Modell did?
Walker: Whether you agree or disagree with Kostoff auctioning his fandom, I think he makes a compelling case. Being a fan is an individual thing. One person's tolerance may be higher or lower than the next person. In Kostoff's case, he put a lot of time, money and energy into the Bengals and 20 years without a playoff win was enough. He didn't believe he was getting enough from his team in return. For other fans, the tolerance may be higher.
Andy from Clarion, PA, writes: James, it's obvious that the Steelers would love to have Ike Taylor back and Ike would love to come back. The only problem is that the Steelers seem unlikely to pay top dollar for him. If we would have another uncapped year, why would the Steelers not just pay him what he wants for that year and try to work out a longer deal later on or work on developing younger players in the meantime.
Walker: Andy, there are some holes in your reasoning. First, the Steelers don't know if there will be another uncapped year, and even so, Pittsburgh approached 2010 as if there was a cap. Second, Taylor is 31 and wants a long-term deal. This is probably Taylor's last chance to cash in big for his career and he won't sign a one-year contract. I would assume Taylor wants at least three years.
Jordan M. from Belle Vernon, Pa., writes: I'll occasionally read the comments on some of your posts, and the Nnamdi Asomugha to the Steelers posts are as aggravating as they are ridiculous. I can just imagine how frustrated you are by it, because I'm sure you get deluged daily w/that nonsense.. So I think you should start every post with "Nnamdi to Steelers-Never" until FA starts. It might deter the endless questions you receive.
Walker: It was frustrating at first, Jordan. But I have a way of finding humor in things, so eventually it became a running joke in the AFC North blog. He might be the most popular football player in Pittsburgh never play for the Steelers.
Kovacs from Santa Monica, CA, writes: Not AFCN related, but I can't take it anymore. Tony Romo is not good. He's not a winner. He has decent stats because he has arguably the best offensive arsenal in the game: Witten, Austin, Dez, Jones/Barber/Choice. Tony Romo is good at two things: looking good and playing golf. Rant over.
Walker: I've never been big on Romo, either, Kovacs. He's a good quarterback. But Romo is not a proven winner and gets too much hype due to the team he plays for.
Mike from Ashtabula, Ohio writes: Hey, glad you got a good laugh from my comments the other day. Well, it’s the truth. The Browns will win the division this year, Mr. Walker, and I hope you cover the team like you did with the Steelers and Ravens last year. The Browns will win 12 games this year and [Colt] McCoy will throw for 3,500 yards. TAKE THAT TO THE BANK.
Walker: I will remember you said that, Mike. By the way, are you sure McCoy will throw for 3,500 yards with those receivers?
AFC North "Homer of the Week"
Here is the biggest homer in the AFC North this week. Enjoy.
Justin Isett from Baltimore writes: I hate to say this, because this has homer written all over it, but the Ravens or the Steelers going undefeated isn't entirely impossible. Apart from each other they only have maybe three tough matches in which they would probably be favored. Pittsburgh has a Week 11 bye then Kansas city and a lot of rebuilding teams. So I don't think a 16-0 or 15-1 record for Baltimore or Pittsburg is unrealistic.
Walker: Justin, you knew you were going to be our "Homer of the Week" for this one. Neither Pittsburgh nor Baltimore will go 16-0 or 15-1 next season. As Mike from Ashtabula said, TAKE THAT TO THE BANK.
If you have any future questions, complaints, or homerific comments, feel free to send them to our AFC North inbox.
Steven Velte from Baltimore writes: JW, why does Joe Flacco get so little respect around the league and Matt Ryan gets much more praise?
Walker: Steven, I don't have a clear answer. But I do have a "face of the franchise" theory involving these two quarterbacks. Both players are very close at this stage of their careers, but the difference is Flacco is not the face of the Ravens. Ray Lewis is. After that there's Ed Reed, Terrell Suggs, Haloti Ngata, etc. For the Falcons, Ryan is the face of the franchise. So I think he gets much more publicity and credit for his team's success, despite their statistics being almost identical the past three seasons.
Will from Sykesville, MD, wants to know what the chances are of Flacco beating Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers this year.
Walker: We opened that question up to our community this week, Will, and most believe it's not going to happen in 2011. I'm not ready to make any firm predictions, but I was a little surprised by the results. Flacco has been close in the past, Super Bowl runners-up usually struggle the following year and Baltimore's roster is stacked even before free agency. Injuries aside, I expect the Ravens and Steelers to compete for the AFC North title again. Flacco and the Ravens have their best shot to catch Pittsburgh at home in Week 1.
Rye Dalton from Encinitas, CA, wants to know if the Cleveland Browns would have any interest in the supplemental draft for Ohio State players.
Walker: Good question, Rye. The Browns have additional draft picks to spare in 2012 and need all the help they can get this year. So I would list the Browns as a potential candidate for the supplemental draft. The two players of interest for the Browns could be offensive tackle Mike Adams and tailback Dan Herron, because they both play positions where Cleveland lacks depth.
JMo from Bed Stuy wants to know if safety Darren Sharper could be a target for the Browns.
Walker: I don't see this as a good match, JMo. If Sharper plays next season, he's in the twilight of his career and probably wants to play for a contender. The Browns, in my opinion, are at least. ... OK I'm not going to say it this week. I don't want to upset those Browns fans who think their team will be Super Bowl contenders this year.
Michael Ricke from Kristiansand, Norway, wants to know why Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer would want out now.
Walker: Until Palmer speaks publicly, we won't have the full details. But reading the signs, Palmer is tired of the losing and has lost confidence in the Bengals' ability to field a championship-caliber team. Palmer, 31, gave Cincinnati his prime years and only has a few good seasons left. Palmer believes he has a better chance of winning a Super Bowl elsewhere. And after watching Cincinnati for the past 20 years, I don't think anyone can argue with Palmer's line of reasoning.
Christian from Phoenix wants to know what kind of offseason activities have Bengals players organized.
Walker: The Bengals have held a few gatherings, Christian, and the team will have organized practices for the next two weeks. The Bengals are a young, rebuilding team and need to get the work in.
Derrick from Rochester, NY, wants to know where Steelers safety Troy Polamalu ranks with some of the all-time great defenders.
Walker: Polamalu is definitely unique, and I think when his career is over, he will be a Hall of Famer. But it's hard to compare him with other all-time great defensive players like Lawrence Taylor, for example, until Polamalu's career is over.
Complaint department
Here are recent comments and complaints from our community.
Dustin from Pittsburgh writes: It's hard not to agree with Brett Kostoff's response. If you were in an abusive relationship for 20 years, would you stick around for another 20? Probably not. At some point you have to say enough is enough, cut your losses and move on. And we all know the Bengals have a lot of losses to cut.
Brandon Crawford from Sykesville, Md, writes: Sounds like Kostoff is making a lot of excuses. If you are a true fan you stick with your team through black and blue. Bottom line. This guy is a disgrace to all TRUE fans of the game.
Nick Diligente from Cleveland writes: I've been a fan for 30 years. After reading Brett Kostoff's response and listening to him compare it to the cable bill, I am starting to doubt my loyalty to the Browns. He really put it into a perspective the Browns fans should look at. Do you think the Ravens fans would let me move to Baltimore as Art Modell did?
Walker: Whether you agree or disagree with Kostoff auctioning his fandom, I think he makes a compelling case. Being a fan is an individual thing. One person's tolerance may be higher or lower than the next person. In Kostoff's case, he put a lot of time, money and energy into the Bengals and 20 years without a playoff win was enough. He didn't believe he was getting enough from his team in return. For other fans, the tolerance may be higher.
Andy from Clarion, PA, writes: James, it's obvious that the Steelers would love to have Ike Taylor back and Ike would love to come back. The only problem is that the Steelers seem unlikely to pay top dollar for him. If we would have another uncapped year, why would the Steelers not just pay him what he wants for that year and try to work out a longer deal later on or work on developing younger players in the meantime.
Walker: Andy, there are some holes in your reasoning. First, the Steelers don't know if there will be another uncapped year, and even so, Pittsburgh approached 2010 as if there was a cap. Second, Taylor is 31 and wants a long-term deal. This is probably Taylor's last chance to cash in big for his career and he won't sign a one-year contract. I would assume Taylor wants at least three years.
Jordan M. from Belle Vernon, Pa., writes: I'll occasionally read the comments on some of your posts, and the Nnamdi Asomugha to the Steelers posts are as aggravating as they are ridiculous. I can just imagine how frustrated you are by it, because I'm sure you get deluged daily w/that nonsense.. So I think you should start every post with "Nnamdi to Steelers-Never" until FA starts. It might deter the endless questions you receive.
Walker: It was frustrating at first, Jordan. But I have a way of finding humor in things, so eventually it became a running joke in the AFC North blog. He might be the most popular football player in Pittsburgh never play for the Steelers.
Kovacs from Santa Monica, CA, writes: Not AFCN related, but I can't take it anymore. Tony Romo is not good. He's not a winner. He has decent stats because he has arguably the best offensive arsenal in the game: Witten, Austin, Dez, Jones/Barber/Choice. Tony Romo is good at two things: looking good and playing golf. Rant over.
Walker: I've never been big on Romo, either, Kovacs. He's a good quarterback. But Romo is not a proven winner and gets too much hype due to the team he plays for.
Mike from Ashtabula, Ohio writes: Hey, glad you got a good laugh from my comments the other day. Well, it’s the truth. The Browns will win the division this year, Mr. Walker, and I hope you cover the team like you did with the Steelers and Ravens last year. The Browns will win 12 games this year and [Colt] McCoy will throw for 3,500 yards. TAKE THAT TO THE BANK.
Walker: I will remember you said that, Mike. By the way, are you sure McCoy will throw for 3,500 yards with those receivers?
AFC North "Homer of the Week"
Here is the biggest homer in the AFC North this week. Enjoy.
Justin Isett from Baltimore writes: I hate to say this, because this has homer written all over it, but the Ravens or the Steelers going undefeated isn't entirely impossible. Apart from each other they only have maybe three tough matches in which they would probably be favored. Pittsburgh has a Week 11 bye then Kansas city and a lot of rebuilding teams. So I don't think a 16-0 or 15-1 record for Baltimore or Pittsburg is unrealistic.
Walker: Justin, you knew you were going to be our "Homer of the Week" for this one. Neither Pittsburgh nor Baltimore will go 16-0 or 15-1 next season. As Mike from Ashtabula said, TAKE THAT TO THE BANK.
If you have any future questions, complaints, or homerific comments, feel free to send them to our AFC North inbox.
We are getting many free-agency questions, even though we don't know when it will begin. Teams are not talking about players during the lockout for fear of legal ramifications. But I will try to provide answers as best as I can.
Sheldon from Erie, Pa., writes: What do think the chances are of Pittsburgh going after Antonio Cromartie if they are unable to sign Ike Taylor? Can you please explain to me why people want to keep William Gay?
James Walker: Cromartie is not a good fit for the Steelers, Sheldon. The Steelers are trying to avoid character questions after recent transgressions with Santonio Holmes and Ben Roethlisberger. On the field, Cromartie is not a good tackler, and the Steelers need that at corner because defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau calls so many blitzes. Also, I don't think your William Gay statement is accurate. My sense is Steeler Nation would not be upset if the team goes in another direction. But I don't live in Pittsburgh, so maybe there's a buzz I'm not aware of.
Jason from Tucson, Ariz., wants to know if the Steelers could make a push for fullback Lawrence Vickers in free agency.
Walker: The Steelers rarely use a fullback, Jason. Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians is really big into three-receiver and dual-tight end sets. Backup tight end David Johnson also has done a decent job in the fullback role when needed. If we're looking within the division, I actually think Vickers would be a much better fit for the Baltimore Ravens, who want to fix their running game and could be in the market for a fullback if pending free agent Le'Ron McClain doesn't return. Vickers knows the division well and his physical style fits right in with the Ravens.
Clifton from Brooklyn, N.Y., writes: James, I was wondering if you could give a scenario where the Steelers sign Nnamdi Asomugha, no matter how far-fetched?
Walker: This is getting ridiculous. Steeler Nation should police itself and give up on the idea of Asomugha coming to Pittsburgh. Who was the last big-name free agent the Steelers signed of Asomugha's caliber? It's not happening. But I will provide some brief entertainment, Clifton, and provide one far-fetched scenario. If Asomugha publicly states, "I don't care about making $15 million per year anymore. I just want to win a Super Bowl, and I only want to do it in Pittsburgh. I will play for the Steelers for $1 million next season." Only then will the Steelers have a chance. Otherwise, let it go, Steeler Nation.
DanielWolfNFL via Twitter wants to know what my thoughts are on the Cleveland Browns possibly pursuing free-agent safety Donte Whitner.
Walker: There are some pros and cons, Daniel. The pros are that Whitner is one of the top free agents available and the Browns have a need at safety. He's also a local product from Cleveland, and I think if the money is right, the Browns have a good shot. But the cons are that Whitner's style is similar to T.J. Ward's as in-the-box safeties, and that could present problems in coverage. Both players are young and potentially could be "coached up" to get better in coverage. But on paper that looks to be an issue. Still, Whitner is an upgrade over what the Browns have.
JeremyJameyson via Twitter wants to know if the Browns should go after receiver Chad Ochocinco if he is let go?
Walker: The Browns may look to add another veteran receiver, JJ. But Ochocinco would be an odd fit. He's 33 and the Browns are another rebuilding team that is still -- here's that infamous phrase again -- at least two years away. Ochocinco would be better playing for a contender next season.
Sue from Baltimore writes: Any bites on Willis McGahee? What do you think he is worth as a player?
Walker: There can't be any bites while he's still under contract, Sue. But there should be some teams interested once McGahee is released. Unfortunately, teams aren't talking right now, so I don't have a good enough feel for who the teams are or what his value would be. I still think there's a chance McGahee returns to Baltimore. The Ravens want him back, just not at the $6 million salary he's scheduled to make next season.
Clayton from Maryland writes: If Jimmy Smith stays out of trouble what corner would you compare him to in the future?
Walker: Clayton, the comparison I hear most is to Asomugha, and I think it makes sense. Smith is tall, lanky and fluid in his movements. These are all great traits to have for a corner. Both were late first-round picks coming out of college, as well. There have also been comparisons to former Ravens Pro Bowl corner Chris McAlister. But I think McAlister was more physical than Smith at this juncture. McAlister would beat you up at the line of scrimmage for four quarters and not relent. Smith has to prove he has that kind of mean streak in the NFL.
Matt from Syracuse wants to know if the Bengals trade Carson Palmer and cut Ochocinco, could they apply that money to re-sign free agents Johnathan Joseph and Cedric Benson.
Walker: Technically, yes, Matt. Palmer is due to make $11.5 million next season and Ochocinco is on for $6 million. That's more than $17 million off their books if the Bengals do the smart thing by moving on without Ochocinco and Palmer. Barring a bidding war with teams, I don't think Benson will cost too much. Running backs his age (28) don't get a ton of money in free agency, so I think there's a strong chance Benson returns. But I still have reservations about Joseph. The going rate for corners of his caliber starts at $10 million per season, and I don't see the Bengals shelling out that kind of money to keep Joseph, whether they opt to trade Palmer or not.
Comment and complaint department
Here are comments and complaints this week from our AFC North community:
Tommy Michael from Orlando writes: James, the fact that Troy Polamalu got his degree finally ends the debate who the better safety is. Troy, with that history degree, will be dropping knowledge on opposing offenses while he's dropping quarterbacks for sacks!
Walker: That's pretty funny, Michael. We already settled the infamous "Troy Reed" debate a few weeks ago with our safety Power Rankings. But we may have more material on this next week when we rank the NFL's top overall defensive players.
Jim from Cleveland writes: Why is everyone getting so riled up about Scouts Inc.'s prediction that the Browns will finish with the worst record in the NFL? All of the "experts" also predicted the Indians to finish at the bottom of the AL Central and last time I checked I didn't see them down there. That's why they play the games.
Cameron Christie from Allen, Texas, writes: I find Browns fans that think that the Browns are playoff bound this season humorous. More realistically, can you see them going 7-9, possibly 8-8? They do play the NFC West, along with several weaker AFC teams. Also, the Browns are a team on the rise, and I don't see them regressing. What's your prediction for their record in 2011?
Walker: I agree. It's too early for firm predictions before free agency, when the Browns still have a chance to improve their roster. But even as it currently stands, I don't believe they are the worst team in the NFL. Cameron, I don't see the Browns making the playoffs, either. But this time of year fans of every team should be optimistic. That's one of the great things about the NFL.
Fog from Chicago writes: I agree that it looks like the Bengals had a good draft but I don't see how it's going to help them, in the short term, on the field. They're replacing two of their most productive, if declining, veterans (Palmer, Ochocinco) with rookies (Andy Dalton, A.J. Green). How is that going to lead to a more competitive season? In the long run, sure, I think they'll be better off. But this coming year? Maybe some other young guys will develop but even if both Dalton and Green are fantastic they'll still only roughly equal what the guys they're replacing did. That's treading water, not getting better, and treading water makes eight wins very unlikely.
Walker: The Bengals are certainly in rebuilding mode again, Fog. But it was something that had to be done. I wrote last November that Cincinnati needed to blow up the team. I got killed for it at the time. But as the season progressed, people finally saw what I was talking about. The Palmer-Ochocinco-Lewis era had simply run its course and was not going to win a Super Bowl. Lewis returned, but the draft shows the team is finally prepared to move on without Palmer and Ochocinco, who are both over 30 and past their primes.
Patrick from Memphis, Tenn., writes: James, do me a favor and email Roger Goodell and Demarcus Smith and tell them the real "fans" of the NFL want a voice in this whole negotiation process. Both sides are making comments that are they claim are in the best interest of the fans. Why not get the "fans" involved and let us decide!
Walker: Let's be honest, Patrick. The lockout has nothing to do with the fans. Don't believe that from either side, because that doesn't make any sense. Most of this lockout is about money and how billions in revenue will be distributed. And fans won't have any say in how millionaires and billionaires share their money. That's just the reality.
Tim B. from Columbus, Ohio, writes: Looking at the Bengals' schedule, I really feel Cincy has a good chance to start 5-0 before probably losing to Indy and a bye week. I know I risk sounding like a homer but I just wanted to know what your prediction is for the start of the season. Thanks, JW.
Walker: Tim, you were almost our biggest homer this week. But we have two better.
Co-AFC North Homers of the Week
Finally, we have AFC North homers not from the state of Ohio. Enjoy.
J. Singh from NJ writes: The Steelers have a easy schedule and will go undefeated. We will be 19-0 and destroy all the teams on our schedule. We will beat the Ravens for the third time in the playoffs. Then we face the Patriots in the AFC Championship game, and finally beat them, then the Falcons in the Super Bowl.
Alex from Ellicott City, Md., writes: I don't see how the Ravens won't go 15-1. I see them losing at San Diego but that’s about it. We will sweep the Steelers and Joe Flacco will have a huge, coming out year. Jimmy Smith will immediately shut down the receivers we will play this year like A.J. Green, Mike Wallace, Reggie Wayne, Larry Fitzgerald and Santonio Holmes. He will be the defensive Rookie of the Year and make the Pro Bowl. We will also have the most Pro Bowlers in the league with 11.
Walker: See? Steelers and Ravens fans can be homers, too. They just have to raise the bar because their teams are deep and talented. With that said, lay off the "Madden" video games, J.Singh and Alex. Pittsburgh and Baltimore will not go a combined 31-1 in the regular season. Alex, I don't see how the Ravens could have an astounding 11 Pro Bowlers, which would be half of the team's starters. The prediction of sweeping the Steelers is bold as well. I guess Pittsburgh can't go 19-0 and get swept by the Ravens at the same time. But none of these predictions are happening anyway. That's why you're our Co-Homers of the Week.
If you have any additional questions, complaints or homer-iffic comments, send them to our AFC North inbox.
Sheldon from Erie, Pa., writes: What do think the chances are of Pittsburgh going after Antonio Cromartie if they are unable to sign Ike Taylor? Can you please explain to me why people want to keep William Gay?
James Walker: Cromartie is not a good fit for the Steelers, Sheldon. The Steelers are trying to avoid character questions after recent transgressions with Santonio Holmes and Ben Roethlisberger. On the field, Cromartie is not a good tackler, and the Steelers need that at corner because defensive coordinator Dick LeBeau calls so many blitzes. Also, I don't think your William Gay statement is accurate. My sense is Steeler Nation would not be upset if the team goes in another direction. But I don't live in Pittsburgh, so maybe there's a buzz I'm not aware of.
Jason from Tucson, Ariz., wants to know if the Steelers could make a push for fullback Lawrence Vickers in free agency.
Walker: The Steelers rarely use a fullback, Jason. Offensive coordinator Bruce Arians is really big into three-receiver and dual-tight end sets. Backup tight end David Johnson also has done a decent job in the fullback role when needed. If we're looking within the division, I actually think Vickers would be a much better fit for the Baltimore Ravens, who want to fix their running game and could be in the market for a fullback if pending free agent Le'Ron McClain doesn't return. Vickers knows the division well and his physical style fits right in with the Ravens.
Clifton from Brooklyn, N.Y., writes: James, I was wondering if you could give a scenario where the Steelers sign Nnamdi Asomugha, no matter how far-fetched?
Walker: This is getting ridiculous. Steeler Nation should police itself and give up on the idea of Asomugha coming to Pittsburgh. Who was the last big-name free agent the Steelers signed of Asomugha's caliber? It's not happening. But I will provide some brief entertainment, Clifton, and provide one far-fetched scenario. If Asomugha publicly states, "I don't care about making $15 million per year anymore. I just want to win a Super Bowl, and I only want to do it in Pittsburgh. I will play for the Steelers for $1 million next season." Only then will the Steelers have a chance. Otherwise, let it go, Steeler Nation.
DanielWolfNFL via Twitter wants to know what my thoughts are on the Cleveland Browns possibly pursuing free-agent safety Donte Whitner.
Walker: There are some pros and cons, Daniel. The pros are that Whitner is one of the top free agents available and the Browns have a need at safety. He's also a local product from Cleveland, and I think if the money is right, the Browns have a good shot. But the cons are that Whitner's style is similar to T.J. Ward's as in-the-box safeties, and that could present problems in coverage. Both players are young and potentially could be "coached up" to get better in coverage. But on paper that looks to be an issue. Still, Whitner is an upgrade over what the Browns have.
JeremyJameyson via Twitter wants to know if the Browns should go after receiver Chad Ochocinco if he is let go?
Walker: The Browns may look to add another veteran receiver, JJ. But Ochocinco would be an odd fit. He's 33 and the Browns are another rebuilding team that is still -- here's that infamous phrase again -- at least two years away. Ochocinco would be better playing for a contender next season.
Sue from Baltimore writes: Any bites on Willis McGahee? What do you think he is worth as a player?
Walker: There can't be any bites while he's still under contract, Sue. But there should be some teams interested once McGahee is released. Unfortunately, teams aren't talking right now, so I don't have a good enough feel for who the teams are or what his value would be. I still think there's a chance McGahee returns to Baltimore. The Ravens want him back, just not at the $6 million salary he's scheduled to make next season.
Clayton from Maryland writes: If Jimmy Smith stays out of trouble what corner would you compare him to in the future?
Walker: Clayton, the comparison I hear most is to Asomugha, and I think it makes sense. Smith is tall, lanky and fluid in his movements. These are all great traits to have for a corner. Both were late first-round picks coming out of college, as well. There have also been comparisons to former Ravens Pro Bowl corner Chris McAlister. But I think McAlister was more physical than Smith at this juncture. McAlister would beat you up at the line of scrimmage for four quarters and not relent. Smith has to prove he has that kind of mean streak in the NFL.
Matt from Syracuse wants to know if the Bengals trade Carson Palmer and cut Ochocinco, could they apply that money to re-sign free agents Johnathan Joseph and Cedric Benson.
Walker: Technically, yes, Matt. Palmer is due to make $11.5 million next season and Ochocinco is on for $6 million. That's more than $17 million off their books if the Bengals do the smart thing by moving on without Ochocinco and Palmer. Barring a bidding war with teams, I don't think Benson will cost too much. Running backs his age (28) don't get a ton of money in free agency, so I think there's a strong chance Benson returns. But I still have reservations about Joseph. The going rate for corners of his caliber starts at $10 million per season, and I don't see the Bengals shelling out that kind of money to keep Joseph, whether they opt to trade Palmer or not.
Comment and complaint department
Here are comments and complaints this week from our AFC North community:
Tommy Michael from Orlando writes: James, the fact that Troy Polamalu got his degree finally ends the debate who the better safety is. Troy, with that history degree, will be dropping knowledge on opposing offenses while he's dropping quarterbacks for sacks!
Walker: That's pretty funny, Michael. We already settled the infamous "Troy Reed" debate a few weeks ago with our safety Power Rankings. But we may have more material on this next week when we rank the NFL's top overall defensive players.
Jim from Cleveland writes: Why is everyone getting so riled up about Scouts Inc.'s prediction that the Browns will finish with the worst record in the NFL? All of the "experts" also predicted the Indians to finish at the bottom of the AL Central and last time I checked I didn't see them down there. That's why they play the games.
Cameron Christie from Allen, Texas, writes: I find Browns fans that think that the Browns are playoff bound this season humorous. More realistically, can you see them going 7-9, possibly 8-8? They do play the NFC West, along with several weaker AFC teams. Also, the Browns are a team on the rise, and I don't see them regressing. What's your prediction for their record in 2011?
Walker: I agree. It's too early for firm predictions before free agency, when the Browns still have a chance to improve their roster. But even as it currently stands, I don't believe they are the worst team in the NFL. Cameron, I don't see the Browns making the playoffs, either. But this time of year fans of every team should be optimistic. That's one of the great things about the NFL.
Fog from Chicago writes: I agree that it looks like the Bengals had a good draft but I don't see how it's going to help them, in the short term, on the field. They're replacing two of their most productive, if declining, veterans (Palmer, Ochocinco) with rookies (Andy Dalton, A.J. Green). How is that going to lead to a more competitive season? In the long run, sure, I think they'll be better off. But this coming year? Maybe some other young guys will develop but even if both Dalton and Green are fantastic they'll still only roughly equal what the guys they're replacing did. That's treading water, not getting better, and treading water makes eight wins very unlikely.
Walker: The Bengals are certainly in rebuilding mode again, Fog. But it was something that had to be done. I wrote last November that Cincinnati needed to blow up the team. I got killed for it at the time. But as the season progressed, people finally saw what I was talking about. The Palmer-Ochocinco-Lewis era had simply run its course and was not going to win a Super Bowl. Lewis returned, but the draft shows the team is finally prepared to move on without Palmer and Ochocinco, who are both over 30 and past their primes.
Patrick from Memphis, Tenn., writes: James, do me a favor and email Roger Goodell and Demarcus Smith and tell them the real "fans" of the NFL want a voice in this whole negotiation process. Both sides are making comments that are they claim are in the best interest of the fans. Why not get the "fans" involved and let us decide!
Walker: Let's be honest, Patrick. The lockout has nothing to do with the fans. Don't believe that from either side, because that doesn't make any sense. Most of this lockout is about money and how billions in revenue will be distributed. And fans won't have any say in how millionaires and billionaires share their money. That's just the reality.
Tim B. from Columbus, Ohio, writes: Looking at the Bengals' schedule, I really feel Cincy has a good chance to start 5-0 before probably losing to Indy and a bye week. I know I risk sounding like a homer but I just wanted to know what your prediction is for the start of the season. Thanks, JW.
Walker: Tim, you were almost our biggest homer this week. But we have two better.
Co-AFC North Homers of the Week
Finally, we have AFC North homers not from the state of Ohio. Enjoy.
J. Singh from NJ writes: The Steelers have a easy schedule and will go undefeated. We will be 19-0 and destroy all the teams on our schedule. We will beat the Ravens for the third time in the playoffs. Then we face the Patriots in the AFC Championship game, and finally beat them, then the Falcons in the Super Bowl.
Alex from Ellicott City, Md., writes: I don't see how the Ravens won't go 15-1. I see them losing at San Diego but that’s about it. We will sweep the Steelers and Joe Flacco will have a huge, coming out year. Jimmy Smith will immediately shut down the receivers we will play this year like A.J. Green, Mike Wallace, Reggie Wayne, Larry Fitzgerald and Santonio Holmes. He will be the defensive Rookie of the Year and make the Pro Bowl. We will also have the most Pro Bowlers in the league with 11.
Walker: See? Steelers and Ravens fans can be homers, too. They just have to raise the bar because their teams are deep and talented. With that said, lay off the "Madden" video games, J.Singh and Alex. Pittsburgh and Baltimore will not go a combined 31-1 in the regular season. Alex, I don't see how the Ravens could have an astounding 11 Pro Bowlers, which would be half of the team's starters. The prediction of sweeping the Steelers is bold as well. I guess Pittsburgh can't go 19-0 and get swept by the Ravens at the same time. But none of these predictions are happening anyway. That's why you're our Co-Homers of the Week.
If you have any additional questions, complaints or homer-iffic comments, send them to our AFC North inbox.
Morning take: Chad Ochocinco to Falcons?
May, 19, 2011
5/19/11
8:00
AM ET
By
James Walker | ESPN.com
Here are the most interesting stories Thursday in the AFC North:
- Will Cincinnati Bengals receiver Chad Ochocinco play for the Atlanta Falcons next season?
- Baltimore Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome believes second-year defensive tackle Terrence Cody could be a breakout player.
- Ben Roethlisberger of the Pittsburgh Steelers is one of the league's best quarterbacks under pressure.
- Who are the five most important Cleveland Browns next season?
Here are the most interesting stories Saturday in the AFC North:
- Baltimore Ravens veteran cornerback Domonique Foxworth wants to help embattled rookie Jimmy Smith.
- Following this week's controversial comments via Twitter, should the Pittsburgh Steelers consider running tailback Rashard Mendenhall out of town?
- Cincinnati Bengals quarterback coach Ken Zampese can rest easy with the pickup of rookie Andy Dalton.
- Should the Cleveland Browns have kept the No. 6 overall pick?
Here are the latest happenings Thursday evening in the AFC North:
- Baltimore Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome says don't count out pending free-agent offensive tackle Jared Gaither.
- Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Hines Ward was held at gunpoint during a mistaken traffic stop in Los Angeles. The incident turned out to be a mix-up.
- How will the Cincinnati Bengals use rookie linebacker Dontay Moch?
- Here is another look at the blockbuster deal on draft day involving the Cleveland Browns and Atlanta Falcons.
Morning take: Palmer speculation continues
May, 4, 2011
5/04/11
7:00
AM ET
By
James Walker | ESPN.com
Here are the most interesting stories Wednesday in the AFC North:
- Retired NFL quarterback Kurt Warner says his former team -- the Arizona Cardinals -- would be a good fit for Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer.
- Baltimore Ravens rookie cornerback Jimmy Smith believes he's the best corner in this year's draft.
- Pittsburgh Steelers tailback Rashard Mendenhall removed one of his controversial tweets involving 9/11 from his Twitter account.
- The Cleveland Browns have to make the most of their blockbuster trade with the Atlanta Falcons.
The Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers made late second-round picks in rapid succession Friday night.
Baltimore came up first and selected speedy Maryland receiver Torrey Smith at No. 58. It was a solid value pick close to home and a good addition to a veteran group that includes Anquan Boldin and Derrick Mason.
The run on receivers continued with the Browns selecting North Carolina receiver Greg Little with the next pick at No. 59. It was Cleveland's second pick of the round courtesy of Thursday's blockbuster deal with the Atlanta Falcons. Little missed all of 2010 via suspension and was the first offensive pick for the Browns, who are trying to get help for young quarterback Colt McCoy.
With the second-to-last pick of the round, the Pittsburgh Steelers broke the streak on receivers by drafting Florida offensive tackle Marcus Gilbert with No. 63 pick. The Steelers needed youth at the position and added much-needed depth there in the second round.
Baltimore came up first and selected speedy Maryland receiver Torrey Smith at No. 58. It was a solid value pick close to home and a good addition to a veteran group that includes Anquan Boldin and Derrick Mason.
The run on receivers continued with the Browns selecting North Carolina receiver Greg Little with the next pick at No. 59. It was Cleveland's second pick of the round courtesy of Thursday's blockbuster deal with the Atlanta Falcons. Little missed all of 2010 via suspension and was the first offensive pick for the Browns, who are trying to get help for young quarterback Colt McCoy.
With the second-to-last pick of the round, the Pittsburgh Steelers broke the streak on receivers by drafting Florida offensive tackle Marcus Gilbert with No. 63 pick. The Steelers needed youth at the position and added much-needed depth there in the second round.
After months of hype, Day 1 of the NFL draft is finally in the books. We now have four new players in the division who are expected to make an immediate impact with their respective teams.
But which AFC North club had the best first-round pick Thursday night? That is this week's "Poll Friday" question in conjunction with ESPN's SportsNation.
Was it the Cincinnati Bengals? They turned down a significant trade offer from the Atlanta Falcons to keep the No. 4 overall pick and selected Georgia wide receiver A.J. Green. He is expected to replace Chad Ochocinco as the No. 1 target in Cincinnati.
What about the Cleveland Browns? They accepted Atlanta's generous trade package, which included five draft picks over the next two years and eventually selected Baylor defensive tackle Phil Taylor to anchor the middle of their 4-3 defense. Did the Browns have the best first day?
The Baltimore Ravens missed a spot after a trade went awry with the Chicago Bears but they eventually took Colorado cornerback Jimmy Smith at No. 27. Smith is talented but comes with character concerns. But is he the best pick in the division?
Or did the reigning AFC champion Pittsburgh Steelers get the most for their value at No. 31 by selecting Ohio State defensive end Cameron Heyward? The Steelers are good at capitalizing on prospects other teams miss at the end of rounds. Is Heyward Pittsburgh's next gem?
Cast your vote on which AFC North team had the best first round Thursday night and share your thoughts in the comment section below. We'd love to hear everyone's honest, homer-free assessment of the first round.
But which AFC North club had the best first-round pick Thursday night? That is this week's "Poll Friday" question in conjunction with ESPN's SportsNation.
What about the Cleveland Browns? They accepted Atlanta's generous trade package, which included five draft picks over the next two years and eventually selected Baylor defensive tackle Phil Taylor to anchor the middle of their 4-3 defense. Did the Browns have the best first day?
The Baltimore Ravens missed a spot after a trade went awry with the Chicago Bears but they eventually took Colorado cornerback Jimmy Smith at No. 27. Smith is talented but comes with character concerns. But is he the best pick in the division?
Or did the reigning AFC champion Pittsburgh Steelers get the most for their value at No. 31 by selecting Ohio State defensive end Cameron Heyward? The Steelers are good at capitalizing on prospects other teams miss at the end of rounds. Is Heyward Pittsburgh's next gem?
Cast your vote on which AFC North team had the best first round Thursday night and share your thoughts in the comment section below. We'd love to hear everyone's honest, homer-free assessment of the first round.
BEREA, Ohio -- The Cleveland Browns hinted that they would trade down from the No. 6 overall pick. On Thursday night they found a dancing partner in the Atlanta Falcons.
Cleveland moved down -- way down -- to acquire more picks in the next two drafts. Atlanta took former University of Alabama receiver Julio Jones at No. 6.
To make the move, the Browns acquired Atlanta's No. 27 overall pick and second- and fourth-round picks this year, in addition to Atlanta's first- and fourth-round picks in 2012.
If the Browns stay put at No. 27, there will be a lot of debate whether the Browns had to move down this far. Coming off a 5-11 season, they have a lot of holes to fill. But the Browns also need impact players to close the gap with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens.
It's already a busy night here at Browns headquarters. Stay tuned.
Madden, Hillis results coming Wednesday
April, 26, 2011
4/26/11
6:00
PM ET
By
James Walker | ESPN.com
Will Cleveland Browns running back Peyton Hillis be on the "Madden NFL 12" cover?
After receiving millions of votes since last month, ESPN's SportsNation will crown a champion of the 2012 Madden cover tournament on Wednesday. Hillis, a No. 10 seed, is facing Philadelphia Eagles quarterback and No. 3 seed Michael Vick in the finals.
Hillis, thanks to the tremendous support from Browns fans, has upset higher seeds four consecutive weeks. Hillis beat Baltimore Ravens tailback and No. 7 seed Ray Rice, Atlanta Falcons quarterback and No. 2 seed Matt Ryan, Kansas City Chiefs tailback and No.6 seed Jamaal Charles and Green Bay Packers quarterback and No. 1 seed Aaron Rodgers to get to the finals.
SportsNation is keeping the results under wraps, and there were no official updates on who was leading last week. Check back with the AFC North blog on Wednesday to find out this year's winner.
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.
