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BEREA, Ohio -- The Cleveland Browns couldn't hide their enthusiasm for Trent Richardson.

The Browns wanted him so badly that they gave up three picks to move one spot to make sure they got the only elite running back in this draft. Then, even before the Washington Redskins made their pick at No. 2, Cleveland turned in its card with Richardson's name on it.

Richardson brings new life and enthusiasm to one of the worst offenses in the NFL. He also brings something equally important -- a physical identity.

Cleveland's long-plodding offense is now tougher, rougher and meaner. With all due respect to Jim Brown, Richardson is far from "ordinary." Richardson is the type of no-nonsense running back a team needs when colliding with the likes of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens.

In the SEC, one of the best college conferences in the country, Richardson set Alabama season records for rushing yards (1,679) and touchdowns (21) by showing no hesitation when running between the tackles. He was fearless in bulling past defenders and stiff-arming them. What makes him a playmaker is his ability to also make players miss in the open field. His power and elusiveness are a special combination.

This is a draft where the Browns must rebuild their offense. They started by finding the centerpiece for it.

"We’re thrilled. He’s one of the guys who’s passionate, productive and durable," Browns coach Pat Shurmur said. "He’s the kind of runner that we feel is going to help us to put an offense together to score the points that we need to win the games that we’re going to win.

"If you don’t sense the excitement in my voice, then you’re missing it."

What the Browns were missing last season was a spark on offense. Cleveland ranked 29th in yards and 30th in scoring. That's why trading up to secure Richardson wasn't just the right move. It was the only one.

It was an aggressive move for an aggressive player. Outside of quarterbacks Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III, Richardson was the only other player in this draft who could immediately affect an offense.

Problem: The Browns scored four rushing touchdowns last season, which was tied for the the second-fewest in the past 15 NFL seasons, according to ESPN Stats & Information.

Solution: Richardson is one of three players in SEC history to score 20 or more rushing touchdowns in a season.

Problem: The Browns' running backs averaged the fewest yards after contact (1.77) last season.

Solution: Richardson thrives on contact and talked openly Thursday night about crashing into Ray Lewis and Troy Polamalu.

There's a risk in taking a running back so high in the draft, which is why few teams do it. There have been five running backs taken in the top five in the previous 10 drafts: Cedric Benson (2005), Ronnie Brown (2005), Cadillac Williams (2005), Reggie Bush (2006) and Darren McFadden (2008). They've combined for one Pro Bowl.

Shurmur indicated that if the Browns didn't take Richardson in the top five, another team would have. This prompted the Browns to give up picks in the fourth (118th overall), fifth (139th) and seventh (211th) rounds to move up one spot to get Richardson. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and St. Louis Rams reportedly were thinking about trading up for him.

Why were so many teams interested in Richardson? As Shurmur describes him, Richardson is virtually flawless.

"He can run with power. He can make you miss when he gets in the open. He can score," Shurmur said. "I like the fact that when he’s asked to pass-protect, he will do it aggressively. And, when you throw him the football, he catches it. Unless I’m missing something there, that’s what runners got to do."

The Browns needed a playmaker at running back. Perhaps just as important, they needed a running back who will show up every week. That was a major problem last season, when Peyton Hillis, Montario Hardesty and Brandon Jackson missed a chunk of the season with injuries.

"The other guys on this team, the coaches and our fans need to know that our players are going to show up," Shurmur said. "I’ve seen this in this player. We feel like that’s what we’re getting."

Richardson has his skeptics, namely the best running back in Browns history. When asked Thursday afternoon about the possibility of Cleveland taking Richardson, Jim Brown said, "I'm not overwhelmed with it. The problem is that he's ordinary. I think he's ordinary." Asked what about him is ordinary, Brown said, "the size, the speed, his moves."

You have to admire how Richardson responded to the criticism. Like his style of play, he attacked it head on.

"I got a lot to prove," he said on a conference call with reporters. "I'm going to make sure they all mention my name and compare people to me."

Shurmur couldn't say at what point during the draft process that the Browns knew Richardson was going to be their pick.

It could have been during his pro day in late March, when he knocked down Cleveland running backs coach Gary Brown in a blocking drill.

It could have been when he took 17-year-old cancer survivor Courtney Alvis to the senior prom 10 days before the draft.

Richardson acknowledged he didn't know he was going to be taken this high. But he's as excited as the Browns that it happened.

"It's bigger than winning the national championship game," Richardson said.

In a perfect scenario, the Browns would've been able to trade up last month to get RG3. They didn't get their quarterback, but they were determined not to lose out on their running back.

But Richardson is more than a running back to the Browns. He's their cornerstone and their new identity.

"He’s going to be what we think is going to be a really, really fine addition to the Cleveland Browns team," Shurmur said. "He’s going to be one of those players that our fans and our community will be able to watch run the ball for a lot of years. That’s what we’re excited about."

One of the big question marks surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers is at running back.

With Rashard Mendenhall expected to start the season on the physically unable to perform list (PUP), the Steelers have to find someone to replace their leading rusher for the past three seasons.

Pittsburgh coach Mike Tomlin said this week that the Steelers aren't going to stay put with their current group of running backs. "I am sure we are going to get another running back, whether it’s in free agency or in the draft," he said. "We will address it."

Earlier in the week, general manager Kevin Colbert supported backups such as Isaac Redman and Jonathan Dwyer to replace Mendenhall. "With the young guys we have [at running back], we feel confident someone will emerge who can fill that [starting] role," he said.

Who do you think will end up being the Steelers' starting running back in Week 1?

Here are the top options:

• Go with Redman. In his two-year career, he has one career start in the regular season and 162 carries. But he stepped up in a starting role in last season's playoff game in Denver, where he ran for 121 yards.
• Take a chance with Dwyer. A sixth-round pick in 2010, Dwyer has shown flashes but he has limited experience (25 carries in eight career games). He turned heads in Week 5 last season, when he totaled 107 yards rushing against the Titans, including 76-yard run.
• Start a rookie. The Steelers aren't expected to take a running back in the first round, but they could be tempted to do so in the second. Boise State's Doug Martin and Miami's Lamar Miller have good value at the Steelers' No. 56 spot.
• Sign a veteran free agent. This wasn't a deep running back class to begin with, much less two weeks into free agency. The top choices left are: Cedric Benson, Ryan Grant, Joseph Addai and Ronnie Brown.

» AFC Assessments: East | West | North | South » NFC: East | West | North | South

Cincinnati Bengals

Key additions: RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis, S Reggie Nelson, G Travelle Wharton, CB Jason Allen, CB Adam Jones, DE Jamaal Anderson, DE Derrick Harvey

Key losses: DE Frostee Rucker (Browns), G Nate Livings (Cowboys), G Mike McGlynn (Colts), DE Jonathan Fanene (Patriots), WR Andre Caldwell (Broncos)

Grade after first wave of free agency: B. The Bengals were the most active team in the division and they should have been. Cincinnati entered free agency with more than $50 million in salary-cap space, which was more than the rest of the AFC North combined. The Bengals upgraded at running back and left guard while bringing back their top free-agent priority in safety Reggie Nelson. The biggest knock against the Bengals is they didn't make a splash by signing a high-profile free agent like guard Ben Grubbs or wide receiver Robert Meachem.

The prize of the Bengals' signings is running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis, who is an improvement over Cedric Benson. Green-Ellis isn't known for breaking long gains, but he is a force in the red zone and has never fumbled in the NFL. Wharton is a step up from Nate Livings at left guard because he is a strong run-blocker who will open holes inside. The biggest losses came on the defensive line, where Cincinnati will miss Frostee Rucker on run defense and Jonathan Fanene in the pass rush.

What’s next: The Bengals can still close the gap between the Ravens and Steelers because they have two first-round picks in the draft (No. 17 overall, which came from Oakland in the Carson Palmer trade, and No. 21). Even with the signing of Wharton, Cincinnati needs a right guard and could have a shot at the top interior offensive lineman coming out of college. Stanford's David DeCastro is one of the safest picks in the draft and would start immediately for the Bengals.

The second first-round pick could be used on a wide receiver or a cornerback. The Bengals surprisingly didn't add a free-agent wide receiver to pair with A.J. Green. Georgia Tech's Stephen Hill or Baylor's Kendall Wright should be available in the bottom third of the draft. Another need is cornerback because Cincinnati could use an eventual replacement for Nate Clements, who is entering his 12th season. Alabama's Dre Kirkpatrick, the second best corner in the draft, has a chance of sliding to the Bengals.

Cleveland Browns

Key additions: DE Frostee Rucker, LB D'Qwell Jackson, CB Dimitri Patterson, DE Juqua Parker

Key losses: RB Peyton Hillis (Chiefs), S Mike Adams (Broncos), G Eric Steinbach, OT Tony Pashos

Grade after first wave of free agency: C. Browns president Mike Holmgren and general manager Tom Heckert said they were building this team through the draft and they weren't joking. The Browns desperately needed to improve at quarterback, wide receiver and right tackle. But Cleveland's offense came out of the initial wave of free agency empty-handed. Blame the Washington Redskins. The Browns attempted to move up in the draft to take Robert Griffin III, and the Rams instead traded the second overall pick to the Redskins. Cleveland reportedly pursued wide receivers Pierre Garcon and Josh Morgan, and both took high-priced deals from Washington.

The Browns provided more help to the defense in free agency. Frostee Rucker will make an impact in stopping the run, which was the biggest weakness on the NFL's 10th-ranked defense. Juqua Parker, who has 31.5 sacks over the past six seasons, will team with Jabaal Sheard to give Cleveland a strong rush coming off both edges. The Browns didn't try to keep Peyton Hillis and Mike Adams from going elsewhere.

What’s next: Offense, offense and offense. Did I mention offense? The Browns need a quarterback but there's no one worthy of the fourth overall pick. Cleveland could trade down to select Texas A&M's Ryan Tannehill or wait until the second round for Oklahoma State's Brandon Weeden. The big decision comes if the Browns stay put at No. 4. Cleveland's choices are Alabama running back Trent Richardson or Oklahoma State wide receiver Justin Blackmon. The Browns could use either one because they don't have a starting running back or a No. 1 wide receiver.

Cleveland has a second first-round pick as a result of last year's trade with the Atlanta Falcons. The Browns need to target a wide receiver (if they don't take one earlier in the first round), right tackle or outside linebacker with the 22nd overall pick. Baylor receiver Wright, Mississippi offensive tackle Bobby Massie and Nebraska outside linebacker Lavonte David have been linked to Cleveland.

Baltimore Ravens

Key additions: C Matt Birk, ILB Jameel McClain, OLB Brendon Ayanbadejo, CB Corey Graham, S Sean Considine

Key losses: G Ben Grubbs (Saints), OLB Jarret Johnson (Chargers), DE Cory Redding (Colts) and CB Domonique Foxworth

Grade after first wave of free agency: D. The Ravens lost three starters (Ben Grubbs, Jarret Johnson and Cory Redding) from last season's AFC North champion team and have yet to add anyone to replace them. It was a rough start to free agency for Baltimore, which didn't sign any of its first three visits (guard Evan Mathis, defensive end Mark Anderson and receiver-returner Ted Ginn Jr.). The toughest part of free agency was when the Ravens failed to sign Mathis, who re-signed with the Eagles, after Baltimore had just lost Grubbs.

Baltimore was able to keep two free-agent starters, Matt Birk and Jameel McClain, and boost a struggling special-teams group that allowed three touchdowns last season. The Ravens signed Cory Graham, a Pro Bowl special-teams player from the Bears; Brendon Ayanbadejo, a three-time Pro Bowl special-teams standout; and Sean Considine, who played special teams for three seasons under John Harbaugh in Philadelphia.

What’s next: The Ravens' biggest need is at left guard, but there might not be one that warrants being taken at No. 29. Wisconsin center-guard Peter Konz's stock has slipped recently even though he can play guard right away before switching to center in future seasons. It's hard to pin down a player for Baltimore, which can go in a lot of different directions in the first round.

The Ravens could take the best wide receiver available (especially if he's a returner) because they need a third target who can eventually take Anquan Boldin's starting spot. They could take a safety because Ed Reed turns 34 at the start of the season and Bernard Pollard is a free agent next year. And they could take an offensive tackle because they don't have a reliable backup and Bryant McKinnie is a free agent in 2013.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Key additions: None

Key losses: CB William Gay (Cardinals), LB James Farrior, NT Chris Hoke, G Chris Kemoeatu, DE Aaron Smith, WR Hines Ward

Grade after first wave of free agency: D. It's been a quiet free-agency period so far for the Steelers. Then again, it's usually quiet for the Steelers at this point in the offseason. The only team that consistently does less than the Steelers in free agency is the Green Bay Packers.

The Steelers avoided a failing grade because they've lost only two starters from last season's playoff team. James Farrior was cut in the team's salary-cap purge, and William Gay left as an unrestricted free agent. What Pittsburgh really lost in trimming $25 million to get under the cap was veteran depth and leadership. Injuries would force young players to step up into starting roles.

What’s next: There are question marks at running back, guard, inside linebacker, nose tackle and cornerback. Despite all of those needs, the consensus has been Pittsburgh will draft Alabama inside linebacker Dont'a Hightower if he's available at No. 24. He has a great combination of size and speed and excelled in a 3-4 defense in college. It seems like Hightower would be the perfect fit for Pittsburgh.

There's no chance that Memphis' Dontari Poe falls to the Steelers, but there some quality nose tackles in the draft. Those who should be available after the first round are: BYU's Loni Fangupo (second round), Washington's Alameda Ta'amu (third round) and Alabama's Josh Chapman (fourth round). The Steelers likely will become active later in free agency, especially in retaining their own players. Wide receiver Jerricho Cotchery, running back Mewelde Moore and quarterbacks Byron Leftwich and Charlie Batch could potentially return to the team.

The Browns shouldn't trade down from the fourth overall pick. In fact, they shouldn't even be thinking it.

But unfortunately, the Browns are talking about it.

"We're most likely going to stay at No. 4 and we know we'll get a really good player there," Browns general manager Tom Heckert told the Cleveland Plain Dealer at the NFL owners meetings. "But there's about five guys we really like, so we would consider trading down -- but probably only to five, six, seven or eight."

He stressed "why not pick up some extra picks if you can get a guy you like a few spots back."

Yes, you can gain more picks by trading down. The problem is, you lose your shot at one of the coveted offensive playmakers in the draft.

If the Browns traded back, they can say goodbye to running back Trent Richardson. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will take him at No. 5 (especially after signing wide receiver Vincent Jackson and cornerback Eric Wright in free agency).

If the Browns fall back more than two spots, they have no shot at wide receiver Justin Blackmon. He'll go to the St. Louis Rams at No. 6.

Moving back helped the Browns build up their defense last season when they traded with the Atlanta Falcons, who wanted wide receiver Julio Jones. But they can't keep falling back every year.

The Browns desperately need a playmaker, and they most likely will have their choice between Blackmon and Richardson. Cleveland needs to stay at No. 4 and make its selection.

Here are a few other items from Heckert, via the Plain Dealer:

• Even though most think the Browns will take either Blackmon or Richardson, Heckert didn't rule out taking LSU cornerback Morris Claiborne.
• To file under the "not surprised" category, Heckert said it's likely that two of the first three picks will be offense, "but you never know who will be there at No. 22 and No. 37.''
• It appears Bengals free-agent running back Cedric Benson is a fall-back option for the Browns. Heckert didn't dismiss the possibility of signing Benson, who has received no interest in free agency. My guess is the Browns would look at Benson if they don't draft a running back.

The Bengals took a chance on Cedric Benson during the 2008 season, and he rewarded them with three 1,000-yard seasons and a classy farewell.

Cincinnati signed Patriots free-agent running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis on Wednesday, which officially signaled that the team had moved on from Benson. Reached by the team's official website, Benson said "he was forever grateful" to the Bengals for the part they played in reviving his career.

"There are no hard feelings. I loved my time there," Benson told the team's website. "I can't thank the fans enough for the way they supported me. I'm so forever grateful for the recommendation that I think came out of Chicago and for Marvin [Lewis] believing in me and for the Brown family for giving me a chance."

Parting ways with Benson was long considered a formality for the Bengals. He was upset last season when first-year offensive coordinator Jay Gruden started rotating him with backup Bernard Scott. Benson finished with 273 carries (45 less than the previous season). The Bengals are going with a running back-by-committee this season, and knew Benson wouldn't be a good fit.

Benson was never an elite running back for the Bengals, but he was a consistent grinder for them. Give him the ball and he would give you 1,000 yards rushing and six touchdowns.

What's next for Benson is uncertain right now. There's been very little interest in the 29-year-old back in the first wave of free agency. He will likely have to sign with another team as a backup.

Few thought Benson would achieve the amount of success he had in Cincinnati after being a first-round bust for the Bears. And he made sure he left the Bengals on good terms.

The Cincinnati Bengals added youth, security and some punch around the goal line Wednesday when they reached a three-year agreement with former New England Patriots running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis, a free agent.

What stands out about Green-Ellis?

His age. He's 26 years old, three years younger than the running back he's replacing, Cedric Benson.

His dependability. Green-Ellis has not turned the ball over in a span of four NFL seasons, which covers 53 games played and 510 rushing attempts. But you probably should expect such reliability from a running back nicknamed "The Law Firm." This is an improvement over Benson, who fumbled five times in two December games last season.

His ability to hammer the ball across the goal line. Green-Ellis led the Patriots with 24 rushing touchdowns over the past two seasons. As a team, Cincinnati totaled 18 rushing touchdowns over that same span.

When free agency began, the favorite to go to the Bengals was Oakland running back Michael Bush, a Louisville native who offers more versatility than Green-Ellis because he is a weapon in the running and passing games. The Bengals instead went with Green-Ellis, who visited the team a day before Bush. The Patriots and the New York Jets both had expressed interest in Green-Ellis.

There's also little wear-and-tear with Green-Ellis, who has never carried the ball more than 229 times in a season. And he's not expected to be a workhorse for the Bengals. He will likely share carries with backup Bernard Scott and perhaps a rookie draft pick in a running back by committee. One reason the Bengals parted ways with Benson was his reluctance to split carries.

For the best scouting report on Green-Ellis, I defer to the Patriots expert, ESPN Boston's Mike Reiss, who provided this analysis to the AFC North blog:

"Green-Ellis was a reliable player for the Patriots. Ball security was never a concern -- he simply doesn't fumble -- and his hard-charging running inside the red zone was another top asset. He isn't a breakaway threat, but offensive linemen often talked about how much they liked having him behind them because he's efficient, patient and takes what is there for him.

"Green-Ellis is an excellent locker-room presence who worked his way up from rookie free agent, to special teams contributor, to lead back. He played 34 percent of the team's offensive snaps last season, teaming with Danny Woodhead (33 percent) to form a 1-2 combination in an offense that skewed heavier to the pass. The Patriots drafted Shane Vereen (second round) and Stevan Ridley (third round) last year, so they're ready to turn a big part of the position over to the youngsters. One other thought: This isn't a player who will get comfortable now that he has signed a new contract. If anything, it will drive him harder to prove he's worth the investment."

The Bengals take their first step in replacing Cedric Benson on Monday, when they host two free-agent running backs, Michael Bush and BenJarvus Green-Ellis.

It's interesting to note that Bush is visiting Cincinnati on Monday, but he already met coach Marvin Lewis last week at Arizona, where Lewis was attending Arizona State's pro day.

My read on the situation is that the Bengals want Bush and could be using Green-Ellis as leverage to get the Oakland Raiders running back. Bush, 27, seems to be the better fit for Cincinnati. The Bengals aren't the only team interested in Bush, who visited the Bears last week and could be headed next to Seattle, according to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.

While Bush's average (3.8 yards per carry) will remind some of Benson, he is more dynamic than Benson. He caught 37 passes for 418 yards last year, which would bring another look to the Bengals offense. Benson averaged 20 receptions in his four seasons in Cincinnati.

Bush doesn't have the breakaway speed that the Bengals could use (seven runs over 20 yards in four years), but neither does Green-Ellis. The Bengals wouldn't be wrong in signing Green-Ellis, who is young (26), durable (hasn't missed a game in the past two years), reliable (has never fumbled in his NFL career) and strong in the red zone (24 touchdowns in two seasons).

Green-Ellis, though, could be using the Bengals as well. He is currently in talks to stay with the Patriots."I don't know what's going to happen," Green-Ellis told MassLive.com on Friday. "I just have to sit back and wait for things to unfold."

Whether the Bengals sign Bush, Green-Ellis or another veteran free agent, Cincinnati is still planning to go with a running back by committee with backup Bernard Scott and perhaps a rookie draft pick.

The Bengals made the AFC North's biggest move in free agency so far, re-signing safety Reggie Nelson, according to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter.

Why is it so big? Cincinnati pointed to Nelson as its top priority in free agency and didn't lose him in a battle with the New York Jets. The Bengals also kept Nelson at a time when it would be hard to replace him (the safety position is weak in free agency and the draft) and didn't let him leave like cornerback Johnathan Joseph a year ago.

Nelson, 28, has gone from a first-round bust with Jacksonville to an coveted defensive back in Cincinnati. He was considered the second-best safety in free agency, and that's why the Jets tried to lure him there in a two-day visit.

Even though he isn't a Pro Bowl defender, Nelson made his presence known. He led the Bengals with four interceptions and ranked third in tackles. Nelson also broke up eight passes, forced two fumbles and recorded two sacks.

Keeping Nelson was a solid move considering the Bengals didn't take the easy way out and use the franchise tag on him. Although the details for Nelson's deal weren't immediately available, using a $6.2 million tag on Nelson would have been overspending for him (this wasn't a case of the Bengals being frugal).

After a slow start to free agency, the Bengals have been heating up this weekend in using the second-most salary-cap space in the NFL. Cincinnati agreed to terms with guard Travelle Wharton, cornerback Jason Allen and now Nelson.

Monday will be an important day for the Bengals, who host running backs Michael Bush and BenJarvus Green-Ellis. Signing one of them would cross another item off the free-agent list for Cincinnati, which is parting ways with Cedric Benson.

Raiders running back Michael Bush is now expected to hit the free-agent market on March 13 after Oakland used its franchise tag on strong safety Tyvon Branch.

The only way the cap-strapped Raiders would've kept Bush was putting the franchise tag on their backup running back. Now, Bush can look for a starting job elsewhere because he won't be the top back with Darren McFadden in Oakland.

I can see Bush coming to the Cincinnati. The Bengals want to improve over last year's starter, Cedric Benson. They have the salary-cap room to lure the free agents that they want. They offer Bush a chance to play near his hometown of Louisville. And they have new assistant Hue Jackson, who was Bush's head coach last season in Oakland.

Bush would become the Bengals' No. 1 back, but he wouldn't carry the entire load. Offensive coordinator Jay Gruden is leaning toward using a running-back-by-committee, which should suit Bush. After running for 100 yards in back-to-back weeks, he seemed to wear down in his final six games, averaging 63 yards on the ground.

At 27, Bush doesn't have the usual wear-and-tear of other free-agent running backs because he's been a backup for most of his career. He's a bruising runner who can gain the tough yards. He's also an above-average receiver, which would add another element to the Bengals' passing game.

"He's big, he runs hard, he's fast, and when you get him to the second level he's extremely hard to tackle," Chiefs coach Romeo Crennel said of Bush last year. "He can catch also. I forgot to mention that. He's the total package."

The other division team who could show interest in Bush is Cleveland. But it appears like the Browns will first attempt to re-sign Peyton Hillis at a reasonable price.

The AFC North is running a series where every position will be ranked and what could change at that position.

RUNNING BACKS

1. RAVENS: Baltimore has one of the best backfields in the NFL, not just the AFC North. The Ravens boast Pro Bowl players at tailback (Ray Rice) and fullback (Vonta Leach). Rice produced an NFL-best 2,068 total yards and set a team record with 15 touchdowns. He led the AFC North in rushing (1,364 yards) and receptions by a running back (76). Much of Rice's success on the ground came from running behind the powerful blocks of Leach, who was as good as advertised. Ricky Williams was a relative non-factor as a backup because Rice never got seriously injured. What could change: Rice is a free agent but he isn't going anywhere. The Ravens will franchise him and it should happen Friday. The Ravens have to find a new backup running back because Williams decided to retire. Baltimore will give rookie Anthony Allen the first shot at the job.

2. STEELERS: As a group, the Steelers ran for the second-most yards (1,903) in the division and had the best average (4.4 yards per carry). Rashard Mendenhall didn't run with authority, or in between the tackles, and fell short of his third straight 1,000-yard rushing season (he had 928 yards). He only broke three runs over 20 yards. His season came to an abrupt end with a knee injury in the regular-season finale. Isaac Redman came through in limited opportunities and gained 121 yards in the playoff loss at Denver. Mewelde Moore and Jonathan Dwyer both averaged over 7.0 yards per carry before sustaining season-ending injuries. Pittsburgh's running game proved to be efficient but not electric. What could change: Mendenhall underwent surgery in January, so he is expected to start the season on the physically unable to perform list (he would miss at least the first six games of the season). If the Steelers don't add another running back, Redman would take over as the featured back. Moore is a free agent and is not expected to return.

3. BENGALS: Cincinnati's top two running backs, Cedric Benson and Bernard Scott, both averaged fewer than 4.0 yards per carry. The blame has to be equally shared by the Bengals' ineffective guards and plodding running backs. Benson finished with 1,067 yards, his lowest total since 2008. The Bengals wanted more big plays out of Benson, who had four runs over 20 yards. He complained about splitting carries with Scott, who is a good change-of-pace back but averaged 3.4 yards per carry. If you think that's poor, Scott averaged 2.9 yards per catch. Fullback Chris Pressley was one of the few bright spots of the backfield. As a team, Cincinnati was tied for 26th in the NFL with a 3.9-yard average in the running game. What could change: The Bengals need to find another running back because there will be a mutual parting of the ways with Benson, who is a free agent. Offensive coordinator Jay Gruden said he is leaning toward a running back-by-committee system. Alabama running back Trent Richardson isn't expected to fall to the Bengals, but Oakland free agent Michael Bush has been strongly linked to them.

4. BROWNS: You know times are tough when Chris Ogbonnaya goes from the Texans practice squad to the Browns' starting lineup in two weeks. The Browns' three top running backs -- Peyton Hillis, Montario Hardesty and Brandon Jackson -- all missed significant time with injuries. Hillis was the biggest disappointment of the group, watching his rushing yards drop from 1,177 in 2010 to 587 last season. He was sidelined for five games with a hamstring injury and one with strep throat. Hardesty missed all of his rookie year recovering from knee surgery and missed six games in 2011 with a calf injury. The Browns like the promise of rookie fullback Owen Marecic, but they missed the blocking of Lawrence Vickers. The Browns finished 28th in the NFL in rushing. What could change: The big question is whether the Browns will re-sign Hillis. If they bring him back, it'll likely be for one year. If they don't, they will have to find another lead back. It would be huge if Jackson bounces back from a turf toe injury that sidelined him all of last season.

Feb. 20: Special teams; Feb. 21: Defensive line; Feb. 23: Linebackers; Feb. 24: Defensive backs; Feb. 27: Offensive line; Feb. 28: Wide receivers; Feb. 29: Tight ends.

For Friday: Quarterbacks

A quick look at what's happening around the AFC North as the NFL combine continues in Indianapolis. I will provide my take on many of these issues and topics in the days to come, but I wanted to pass along the information.

CINCINNATI BENGALS

• Coach Marvin Lewis did seem troubled over the latest off-the-field incident involving middle linebacker Rey Maualuga, who has pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor assault charge at a Cincinnati bar. Maualuga is the fourth Bengals player since July to have a legal issue, joining wide receiver Jerome Simpson, cornerback Adam Jones and running back Cedric Benson. “There’s a concern," Lewis told reporters at the NFL combine, via the Cincinnati Enquirer. "What [Maualuga] does away from football is important. He has to make good choices and decisions.”
• Benson is not expected to be re-signed by the Bengals, and Lewis' comments about the running back didn't change that perception. As the team website points out, it sounded like Lewis was giving Benson a lifetime achievement award instead of a new contract. “I think we want to improve our running game and if it includes Ced, it includes Ced," Lewis said. "We need to have more explosive running plays. Ced has had a fine career. He’s a physical player and been a big part of our success.”
• Lewis provided encouraging news on two players who are coming off season-ending injuries. Cornerback Leon Hall (Achilles) is ahead of schedule, and wide receiver Jordan Shipley (knee) continues to make “significant progress," Lewis said.

CLEVELAND BROWNS

• Coach Pat Shurmur reiterated the Browns want to re-sign starting middle linebacker D'Qwell Jackson, who's scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent next month. Shurmur said the team hasn't made a decision whether it will place a franchise tag on Jackson, although the Plain Dealer of Cleveland reported last week that the Browns plan to do so. "We're going to be willing to use [the franchise tag]," Shurmur said. "As you go through signing our free agents, then we'll see what's the best place to use that tag."
• In injury updates, Shurmur said left guard Eric Steinbach is progressing from a season-ending back injury but he didn't commit to the left guard as a starter, according to the Akron Beacon Journal. Jason Pinkston, who replaced Steinbach at left guard, will not move to tackle and will continue to develop at the guard position, according to Shurmur.
• Former Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar attended the combine, but not in an official capacity, a team spokesman told the Akron Beacon Journal.

BALTIMORE RAVENS

• Coach John Harbaugh once again expressed confidence about holding onto Ben Grubbs, saying he's "pretty optimistic" about re-signing the Pro Bowl left guard. “I hope that’s not misplaced," Harbaugh said, via the Baltimore Sun. "We’re in the process of negotiating. We’re committed, [owner Steve Bisciotti’s] committed to offering him a really great number. Hey, the market dictates [it], and Ben has to make those kinds of decisions, and you’re really happy for guys. He’s had a great career. He’s had a great number of years here. He’s earned the right to take a look for his family. One thing we’re not doing, we’re not giving him a low number. We’re doing everything we can to try to keep him in Baltimore.”
• In injury news, wide receiver Torrey Smith had surgery to repair a double sports hernia, and cornerback Cary Williams had hip surgery. Both are expected to be ready for training camp.
• Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome said the team isn't looking to add a free-agent running back to replace the retired Ricky Williams. He indicated that Anthony Allen, a seventh-round pick from a year ago, will be given the first shot at the backup running back job. The team would add a free agent during training camp if Allen struggles to secure that spot, Newsome said.
• Newsome is happy the team was able to keep director of player personnel Eric DeCosta, who turned down the chance to interview for the general manager positions with the Chicago Bears, St. Louis Rams and Indianapolis Colts. "I think it was very important because of the continuity that allows the organization to maintain people and have the process remain the same," Newsome said, via ESPN Chicago. "It was kind of like Scott Pioli remaining in New England for all those years with Bill [Belichick]. All it does is make you stronger. I'm very thankful that Eric decided to stay."

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

• Major changes are unlikely to occur to the Steelers' offense under new coordinator Todd Haley, according to general manager Kevin Colbert. The biggest reason is it's tough to do so when the team has been successful and is bringing most of the same personnel back. "So, it's hard to come in and drastically change your philosophy because of the group of players that you have," Colbert said, via the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "You can't overhaul a whole roster. Nor are we looking to because this group of players has been very successful."
• The hope is that the high-ankle sprains that have hampered Pro Bowl center Maurkice Pouncey the past two years are in the past. "The reports we got and the last time we saw him, he was progressing just fine," Colbert said, via the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. "High-ankle sprains, they're a different injury and then when you re-injure it sometimes you've got to do some procedures to shore that joint up."
• A Cleveland-based reporter asked Colbert if the team had reached a "breaking point" with linebacker James Harrison, who was suspended last season after he knocked out Browns quarterback Colt McCoy. "No. Absolutely not," Colbert said. "James Harrison is a great player. He tries to play within the rules. Sometimes, the penalty is unavoidable, and he ends up getting a suspension out of it. He served his time. We've all moved on. We know James Harrison plays the game very hard. He plays it within the rules the best he can. Sometimes, circumstances happen in the course of a game, and you have to live with the consequences. But in no way are we ever going to be disappointed with that player."

Every morning, grab a cup of coffee and get your AFC North wake-up call here:

Now that Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and offensive coordinator Todd Haley have reportedly spoken to each other, let's move onto another AFC North situation where the sides aren't talking -- running back Cedric Benson and the Cincinnati Bengals.

Benson becomes an unrestricted free agent in 20 days (on March 13). "We haven’t had any talks about a new deal," Benson told Sirius NFL Radio last night (via the Cincinnati Enquirer).

In his first season with offensive coordinator Jay Gruden, Benson finished with 273 carries, which was his fewest since 2008.

“We had a chance to establish an identity and we kind of got in our rhythm at times and there were times that were tough,” Benson said. “You can look at the statistics. We didn’t stick on what the offense was built on. When we had Carson [Palmer] and Chad [Ochocinco], we kept a strong identity in the run game and we kind of got away from it and didn’t let that part of the offense grow and bit the bullet on it a little bit.”

Hensley's slant: It was expected that Benson and the Bengals would have a mutual parting of the ways this year, and his comments only confirm that. This doesn't mean that the Bengals will hand the starting job to Bernard Scott. The Bengals should address the running back position in the draft or free agency, and perhaps both.

BROWNS: ESPN's Todd McShay considers Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon, who could be a first-round target of the Browns, among the second tier of wide receivers along with Dez Bryant, Michael Crabtree and Julio Jones. “He compares to Julio Jones in that, he’s a physical receiver that’s ready to come in and I think he can contribute right away, knows how to use his body very well to shield defenders from the ball and position guys away," McShay said in a recent conference call, via the team's website. "He’s got strong hands, but still, every once-in-a-while, has a focus drop and Julio Jones was the same way. I think Jones attacked the ball a little bit better. He belongs in the top of the class at wide receiver this year and in the top 10 picks, I believe.” Hensley's slant: It's funny that Blackmon compares to Julio Jones because the Browns received five draft picks from the Atlanta Falcons (including picks in the first and fourth round this year) by passing on Jones last year. The Browns can't ignore the wide receiver position again this year, whether it's taking Blackmon in the top five or Baylor's Kendall Wright with their second first-round pick. This offense needs playmakers in the passing game.

RAVENS: The Baltimore Sun's Mike Preston said no one should panic about the contract talks with quarterback Joe Flacco and running back Ray Rice because they're staying with the Ravens. "Flacco and Rice aren't going anywhere because the Ravens designated them cornerstones last season when they cut receivers Derrick Mason and Todd Heap," Preston wrote. "Every time there was an issue on offense last season, Rice and Flacco became the spokesmen. The question is, when will the Ravens pay Rice and Flacco?" Hensley's slant: The pecking order looks like it's been set. Even though team officials are expected to talk to the agents of both players at the NFL combine, the Ravens have made it a priority to get a contract extension with Flacco because they can put a relatively cheap franchise tag on Rice. Based on the longevity of quarterbacks compared to running backs, Flacco's contract will also be a more long-term one.

STEELERS: The Steelers showed their commitment to Willie Colon as their right tackle by restructuring his contract, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. The move created $2.85 million in salary-cap space, the paper reported. Colon, who has missed 31 of the past 32 regular-season games due to injuries, has four years remaining on a five-year, $29 million contract that he signed in August. Hensley's slant: It was assumed that Colon would regain his starting job at right tackle because Marcus Gilbert is shifting to left tackle in 2012. The Steelers are now around $8 million over the cap. How much Pittsburgh can get under the cap will dictate whether wide receiver Mike Wallace gets a first-round tender ($2.7 million) or the franchise tag ($9.6 million). It looks like the Steelers are leaning toward putting a first-round tender on Wallace, which would leave them vulnerable to losing him.

Football Outsiders analyzed the biggest holes facing each AFC North team going into the offseason. While I can't reveal everything because it's an Insider post, I'll provide the most interesting nugget of information for each team.

BENGALS: Running back, guard. This is a no-brainer because the starting running back (Cedric Benson) and the three guards that started the most games (Nate Livings, Mike McGlynn and Bobbie Williams) are unrestricted free agents. Best note from Football Outsiders: Livings and McGlynn combined to blow seven run blocks that directly resulted in negative yardage.

BROWNS: Running back. Honestly, Football Outsiders could have named every position on offense. Running back stands out because of injuries and ineffectiveness. Peyton Hillis, Montario Hardesty and Chris Ogbonnaya all failed to provide big plays in the running game. Best note from Football Outsiders: The Browns ranked 30th (2010) and 32nd (2011) in second-level yards by running backs. They also ranked 24th (2010) and 31st (2011) in open-field yards.

RAVENS: Interior offensive line, special teams. Everyone knows the Ravens could have major holes with center Matt Birk and left guard Ben Grubbs becoming free agents. The best observation was the struggles of the special teams, especially the coverage teams. It could get worse because four of Baltimore's top five tacklers on special teams are set to become unrestricted free agents: Tom Zbikowski, Haruki Nakamura, Brendon Ayanbadejo and Jameel McClain. Best note from Football Outsiders: According to Football Outsiders, the Ravens' special teams went from a No. 4 ranking in 2010 to 30th this season, which has to bother a former special-teams coach like John Harbaugh.

STEELERS: Defensive line. Nose tackle Casey Hampton is coming off ACL surgery, and defensive end Brett Keisel severely hurt his groin in the playoff loss at Denver. Backup nose tackle Chris Hoke retired and defensive end Aaron Smith could be next. Best note from Football Outsiders: Early indications suggest that Ziggy Hood will slide over to nose tackle in place of Hampton, Cameron Heyward will start in Hood's old spot on the strong side, Keisel will return at right defensive end.

If there is an AFC North-wide trend heading into free agency, it's the need for a running back. Everyone in the division has to address this position whether it's re-signing someone, finding a new starter or adding a backup.

BENGALS: Cincinnati should be in the market for a new starter. Cedric Benson is a free agent, and this looks like a mutual parting of the ways. The Bengals need to find a running back that can generate big runs. Bernard Scott will return, but the Bengals have never trusted him with a starter's workload.

BROWNS: Count the Browns among those looking for a starter. That's assuming Cleveland isn't going to pursue Peyton Hillis, who produced more drama than touchdowns last year. The Browns still have Montario Hardesty, but he can't stay healthy. Brandon Jackson, who missed all of last season with a toe injury, is expected to be the team's third-down back.

RAVENS: This is the only AFC North team that knows its Week 1 starter at running back. Ray Rice is an unrestricted free agent, but the Ravens will put the franchise tag on him before he can reach the open market. The Ravens' need is at backup running back after Ricky Williams announced his retirement. Baltimore is looking for an experienced power back to compliment Rice.

STEELERS: Pittsburgh will need a new starting running back to open the season after Rashard Mendenhall tore his ACL in the regular-season finale. He likely will start the season on the Physically Unable to Perform list. While Isaac Redman has shown promise, it wouldn't be smart for the Steelers to put the weight of the running game on his shoulders. Pittsburgh needs a more reliable alternate plan.

While there will be others released for salary-cap reasons, here are the top-10 running backs who are scheduled to become unrestricted free agents in March (listed in alphabetical order):

Cedric Benson, Bengals (1,067 yards rushing, six TDs in 2011)

Michael Bush, Raiders (977 yards rushing, seven TDs)

Matt Forte, Bears (997 yards rushing, three TDs)

Ryan Grant, Packers (559 yards rushing, two TDs)

BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Patriots (667 yards rushing, 11 TDs)

Peyton Hillis, Browns (587 yards rushing, three TDs)

Steven Jackson, Rams* (1,145 yards rushing, five TDs)

Marshawn Lynch, Seahawks* (1,204 yards rushing, 12 TDs)

Ray Rice, Ravens (1,364 yards rushing, 12 TDs)

Kevin Smith, Lions (356 yards rushing, four TDs)

* -- Could void contract at the end of the 2011 league year

Revisiting the Cincinnati Bengals' 31-10 loss at the Houston Texans in the wild-card round:

THUMBS UP: It's really tough to be positive about any part of the Bengals' game Saturday, but A.J. Green was dominant -- at least for two quarters. The rookie wide receiver made four catches for 42 yards in the first half and drew a 52-yard pass interference penalty. The problem was, Green had one reception for five yards in the second half, when the Bengals were shut out (not a coincidence).

THUMBS DOWN: Bengals' scoring offense. Cincinnati scored a touchdown on its second drive and and never reached the end zone again. The Bengals only got into the red zone twice after Cedric Benson's 1-yard touchdown run. This was a trend for the Bengals, who were held to one touchdown in four of their final six games. Cincinnati managed two touchdowns in its final 10 quarters.

STAT THAT STICKS: 7 -- Carries by Benson in what likely will be his final game with the Bengals. There was only one time he had fewer rushing attempts in his 58-game Bengals' career, and that was his second game with Cincinnati in October 2008.

OVERHEARD: "I wasn't worried about that. You don't often see where the challenges come into play. The only thing it really would have cost us, which it didn't matter, was the timeouts before halftime. I think both times they had momentum in the game and we ended up picking up the first down. So, it wasn't a big deal. Whether you pick it up or challenge it all depends on momentum, and that is why I took the opportunity to go ahead and do it." Bengals coach Marvin Lewis on whether he was concerned about using all of his replay challenges with 4 1/2 minutes left to play in the first half.

WHAT'S NEXT: The Bengals know their 2012 opponents (which includes home-and-away games against AFC North teams). Home: Denver, Oakland, Dallas, N.Y. Giants, Miami. Away: Kansas City, San Diego, Philadelphia, Washington, Jacksonville.