AFC North: Larry Foote
Do the Pittsburgh Steelers still have the best defense in the NFL?
That depends on three factors: the health of nose tackle Casey Hampton, the ability to replace inside linebacker James Farrior, and the emergence of a No. 2 cornerback. The most pressing issue is Hampton, who had ACL surgery in January. It's unknown whether the 35-year-old veteran will be lining up against Denver in the season opener, or starting the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. His absence could force Ziggy Hood to shift from defensive end, or push rookie fourth-round pick Alameda Ta'amu into the starting lineup.
The Steelers already know they must replace Farrior, who was cut March 2. Some would dismiss this as a challenge, because Farrior was a part-time player last season and contributed a career-low 78 tackles. Still, he was a 10-year starter and the top leader on defense. Many expected the Steelers to draft Dont'a Hightower as his replacement, but they chose guard David DeCastro in the first round instead. Now, Pittsburgh will fill that spot with either Larry Foote, who was previously released so Lawrence Timmons could start, or Stevenson Sylvester, who has 21 career tackles.
The other question is at cornerback, where Pittsburgh must fill William Gay's starting spot. It's up in the air right now, and should come down to a three-player race between Keenan Lewis, Cortez Allen and Curtis Brown. Lewis and Allen played on the team's nickel defense last season, but the dark horse to win this battle is Brown, a tenacious defender who led the Steelers in special teams tackles last season. The Steelers' defense ended last season ranked first in fewest yards and points allowed after being criticized early for being too old. So, it's hard to predict much of a falloff as Pittsburgh goes through some transition at a couple of positions.
Don't expect a Steelers' reunion with Farrior
March, 26, 2012
Mar 26
3:10
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
There were thoughts that James Farrior could return to the Steelers given the lack of experience and depth at inside linebacker. They did it last year with offensive tackle Max Starks, who was released and then brought back after things fell apart on the line.
But the Steelers aren't planning on a similar reunion with Farrior. In fact, they're pretty much against it.
“When we terminated those players, it was a termination,’’ Colbert told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette while bringing out his inner Arnold Schwarzenegger. “We felt that was it, their time as a Steeler was over. It was time for everybody to move forward and that’s where we left it. You never say never but they also know we all understand that was it.”
Colbert's hard-line stance gives the strong impression that Farrior's release was as much about his declining performance as his $2.8 million salary. If cutting him was purely a salary-cap move, the Steelers would be more open to bringing Farrior back at a reduced salary down the line sometime.
Farrior, 37, recorded 78 tackles last season, his fewest ever for the Steelers, and started rotating with Larry Foote. At this point, the Steelers will let Foote and Stevenson Sylvester compete for the job. Colbert also didn't rule out outside linebackers Jason Worilds and Chris Carter converting to the inside.
"We’ll see where the competition leads, and that does not preclude us from having somebody either from free agency or the draft," Colbert said. "We’ll see where it goes.”
I believe the successor to Farrior isn't on the team yet. Alabama's Dont'a Hightower in the perfect fit for the Steelers in terms of playing in a 3-4 defense and being a leader. He should be available when the Steelers select 24th in the first round.
But the Steelers aren't planning on a similar reunion with Farrior. In fact, they're pretty much against it.
Colbert's hard-line stance gives the strong impression that Farrior's release was as much about his declining performance as his $2.8 million salary. If cutting him was purely a salary-cap move, the Steelers would be more open to bringing Farrior back at a reduced salary down the line sometime.
Farrior, 37, recorded 78 tackles last season, his fewest ever for the Steelers, and started rotating with Larry Foote. At this point, the Steelers will let Foote and Stevenson Sylvester compete for the job. Colbert also didn't rule out outside linebackers Jason Worilds and Chris Carter converting to the inside.
"We’ll see where the competition leads, and that does not preclude us from having somebody either from free agency or the draft," Colbert said. "We’ll see where it goes.”
I believe the successor to Farrior isn't on the team yet. Alabama's Dont'a Hightower in the perfect fit for the Steelers in terms of playing in a 3-4 defense and being a leader. He should be available when the Steelers select 24th in the first round.
Free agent officially kicks off at 4 p.m. ET Tuesday, so let's take a look at the three biggest needs for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are historically minor players in free agency:
1. Nose tackle: Casey Hampton turns 35 before the season begins and had ACL surgery in January, which means the Steelers need to find their future anchor of the defensive line. Longtime backup Chris Hoke retired, and Steve McLendon isn't a full-time starter in the middle. The Steelers might consider starting Ziggy Hood at nose tackle, even though he is a little undersized for that position. The Steelers would be ecstatic to take Memphis' Dontari Poe in the first round, but he's now considered a top-15 prospect. Other nose tackle prospects who could be on the Steelers' radar include: BYU's Loni Fangupo (second round), Washington's Alameda Ta'amu (third round) or Alabama's Josh Chapman (fourth round). In free agency, Ravens backup nose tackle Brandon McKinney would be an upgrade over McLendon.
2. Offensive line: The Steelers have a hole at left guard and need to improve their depth at offensive tackle. Pittsburgh benched mistake-prone Chris Kemoeatu at left guard and replaced him with Doug Legursky, whose strength is being a versatile backup. The Steelers could stick with Legursky at guard, but that wouldn't be their top choice. Pittsburgh is expected to switch Marcus Gilbert from right to left tackle, a move he handled well in the playoff game in Denver. The risk is giving the right tackle job back to Willie Colon, who has missed two seasons with injuries. If something happened to Colon again, the Steelers would turn to Jonathan Scott, who has struggled mightily every time he has stepped onto the field. The Steelers could always go back to free-agent stand-by Max Starks once he is recovered from ACL surgery.
3. Inside linebacker: The Steelers need another starter to go with Lawrence Timmons after they released James Farrior. Pittsburgh still has backup Larry Foote, but he isn't an every-down linebacker anymore. The Steelers don't have a great amount of cap room to find someone in free agency, so look for them to address inside linebacker early in the draft next month. Alabama's Dont'a Hightower has been heavily linked to Pittsburgh in the first round. He's a great athlete and has experience in a 3-4 defense. Hightower, who was also the signal caller for the Alabama defense, would eventually take over some of Farrior's leadership role.
1. Nose tackle: Casey Hampton turns 35 before the season begins and had ACL surgery in January, which means the Steelers need to find their future anchor of the defensive line. Longtime backup Chris Hoke retired, and Steve McLendon isn't a full-time starter in the middle. The Steelers might consider starting Ziggy Hood at nose tackle, even though he is a little undersized for that position. The Steelers would be ecstatic to take Memphis' Dontari Poe in the first round, but he's now considered a top-15 prospect. Other nose tackle prospects who could be on the Steelers' radar include: BYU's Loni Fangupo (second round), Washington's Alameda Ta'amu (third round) or Alabama's Josh Chapman (fourth round). In free agency, Ravens backup nose tackle Brandon McKinney would be an upgrade over McLendon.
2. Offensive line: The Steelers have a hole at left guard and need to improve their depth at offensive tackle. Pittsburgh benched mistake-prone Chris Kemoeatu at left guard and replaced him with Doug Legursky, whose strength is being a versatile backup. The Steelers could stick with Legursky at guard, but that wouldn't be their top choice. Pittsburgh is expected to switch Marcus Gilbert from right to left tackle, a move he handled well in the playoff game in Denver. The risk is giving the right tackle job back to Willie Colon, who has missed two seasons with injuries. If something happened to Colon again, the Steelers would turn to Jonathan Scott, who has struggled mightily every time he has stepped onto the field. The Steelers could always go back to free-agent stand-by Max Starks once he is recovered from ACL surgery.
3. Inside linebacker: The Steelers need another starter to go with Lawrence Timmons after they released James Farrior. Pittsburgh still has backup Larry Foote, but he isn't an every-down linebacker anymore. The Steelers don't have a great amount of cap room to find someone in free agency, so look for them to address inside linebacker early in the draft next month. Alabama's Dont'a Hightower has been heavily linked to Pittsburgh in the first round. He's a great athlete and has experience in a 3-4 defense. Hightower, who was also the signal caller for the Alabama defense, would eventually take over some of Farrior's leadership role.
AFC North links: The reality of pro sports
March, 5, 2012
Mar 5
11:05
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Baltimore Ravens
Bounties in Baltimore? John Eisenberg of CSNWashington.com puts a few anecdotes under the microscope.
Cincinnati Bengals
Will running back be a priority for the Bengals in free agency and/or next month's draft?
University of Cincinnati running back Isaiah Pead is a player the Bengals are intrigued by and could see selecting in the middle rounds.
Cleveland Browns
Terry Pluto of The Plain Dealer shares more than a few thoughts on the latest with running back Peyton Hillis.
Joshua Cribbs has a unique take on how the Hills-CIA story came to light.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Larry Foote tells Ron Cook of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette it was "devastating" to see the departures of Hines Ward, Aaron Smith and James Farrior. "We're all grown men, but we've been lucky enough to make a good living playing a kids' game. Most of us have been playing since we were 8 years old. When they tell you it's time to hang up your cleats, it's tough."
Think James Harrison is paying attention to how the NFL handles the bounty sanctions against the New Orleans Saints?
Bounties in Baltimore? John Eisenberg of CSNWashington.com puts a few anecdotes under the microscope.
Cincinnati Bengals
Will running back be a priority for the Bengals in free agency and/or next month's draft?
University of Cincinnati running back Isaiah Pead is a player the Bengals are intrigued by and could see selecting in the middle rounds.
Cleveland Browns
Terry Pluto of The Plain Dealer shares more than a few thoughts on the latest with running back Peyton Hillis.
Joshua Cribbs has a unique take on how the Hills-CIA story came to light.
Pittsburgh Steelers
Larry Foote tells Ron Cook of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette it was "devastating" to see the departures of Hines Ward, Aaron Smith and James Farrior. "We're all grown men, but we've been lucky enough to make a good living playing a kids' game. Most of us have been playing since we were 8 years old. When they tell you it's time to hang up your cleats, it's tough."
Think James Harrison is paying attention to how the NFL handles the bounty sanctions against the New Orleans Saints?
Let's try to open some mail before another AFC North player gets the franchise tag or gets cut ...
Lance from Akron, Ohio, writes: Do the Browns get draft pick compensation if Peyton Hillis leaves?
Jamison Hensley from AFC North headquarters responds: What it boils down to is this: Teams receive compensatory picks if the number of their unrestricted free agents who sign elsewhere (players whose contract expires and not the ones who are released) is more than the number of unrestricted free agents they sign from other teams. For example, if Hillis and five other Browns free agents sign with other teams and the Browns only sign four free agents, they will receive compensatory picks. The level of the picks assigned -- a third-rounder or a seventh-round one -- are based on the contracts signed by their former players sign and how they play in the 2012 season.
Cameron from Allen, Texas, writes: Would the Browns be at all interested in wide receiver Lee Evans? I know that he was a huge disappointment in Baltimore, but wasn't he supposed to be quite good when they signed him? Did he just have a bad (and injury-riddled) year that he can get over, or is he really just not that great?
Jamison Hensley from AFC North headquarters responds: I believe Evans is done. His body is starting to break down, and his confidence is shot. Evans was one of the most durable wide receivers in the game, playing in the first 109 games of his career. But he has now missed 10 of his past 19 regular-season games because of injuries. His numbers have declined for the past four seasons, dropping from 63 catches in 2008 to four in 2011. The Browns definitely need a deep threat, but they need a deep threat who will get out on the field. Evans is a huge question mark.
Ryan from Elkton, Md., writes: With all the cuts the Steelers have done this week, who do you think the Ravens may try to sign to add depth or upgrade if anyone? I was thinking guard Chris Kemoeatu if we are not able to re-sign Ben Grubbs.
Jamison Hensley from AFC North headquarters responds: Kemoeatu wouldn't be a bad addition as long as you're not counting on him to be a starter. The Ravens can't bank on Kemoeatu replacing Grubbs when the Steelers benched him in favor for Doug Legursky. Some team is going to sign Kemoeatu for depth initially and possibly give him another shot to start down the line. He was the Steelers' highest-paid offensive lineman, so he has talent. His biggest problem was being a penalty magnet, which continually held back the offense. Kemoeatu has to became a more disciplined player before he could be considered a candidate to start again.
Megslin from Albany, N.Y., writes: I normally love your writing, and was all ready to agree with everything you said about the Steelers linebacker James Farrior cut being the last. But then you commented that "his play had declined so much he was sharing playing time with Larry Foote." Not exactly. He still ranked as the fourth highest tackler on the team, even while playing less downs. True, with his age, he did have to get spelled with another player on some downs (like Casey Hampton typically does). However, that doesn't mean his play is so awful he needed to come off the field. I realize that's not how you intended to mean it, but as a big Farrior fan who is sad to see the defensive leader, heart of the team, and yes, Steeler starter go, I had to disagree with how you worded it.
Jamison Hensley from AFC North headquarters responds: You can never question Farrior's leadership but you can question his play. It was really noticeable in passing situations. He couldn't cover anyone downfield. That's why he had to be taken off the field. But it was his age (37) that proved to be the biggest factor in why the Steelers chose to cut him over backup Larry Foote (31).
Kory from Hillsborough, Calif., writes: It seems like for the most part historically, kickers who have gotten the franchise tag have gone on to stink it up the following season. I attest that to the fact that kickers need 100 percent of their head into kicking but that they're thinking about their contract situation or about how unpleased they are without a long term commitment by the team. Every year, the kicker's success seems to always come down to the mindset they have out on the field. Should Bengals fans be concerned about Mike Nugent getting tagged? We're all thinking about the Shayne Graham situation that went downhill quickly.
Jamison Hensley from AFC North headquarters responds: It's only natural for Bengals fans to think of how the franchise tag failed to work with Shayne Graham after Cincinnati placed it on Nugent on Friday. I agree with your assessment that the year-to-year nature of the tag can affect the mindset of a kicker, whose play relies heavily on their focus. But I think Nugent will handle the tag just as well as the Browns' Phil Dawson did last year. Dawson converted 24-of-29 field goal attempts, and two of those misses were the result of bad snaps. He also hit seven field goals of 50 yards or longer, and no one in the NFL had more from that distance in 2011. The tag didn't affect Dawson's play.
Lance from Akron, Ohio, writes: Do the Browns get draft pick compensation if Peyton Hillis leaves?
Jamison Hensley from AFC North headquarters responds: What it boils down to is this: Teams receive compensatory picks if the number of their unrestricted free agents who sign elsewhere (players whose contract expires and not the ones who are released) is more than the number of unrestricted free agents they sign from other teams. For example, if Hillis and five other Browns free agents sign with other teams and the Browns only sign four free agents, they will receive compensatory picks. The level of the picks assigned -- a third-rounder or a seventh-round one -- are based on the contracts signed by their former players sign and how they play in the 2012 season.
Cameron from Allen, Texas, writes: Would the Browns be at all interested in wide receiver Lee Evans? I know that he was a huge disappointment in Baltimore, but wasn't he supposed to be quite good when they signed him? Did he just have a bad (and injury-riddled) year that he can get over, or is he really just not that great?
Jamison Hensley from AFC North headquarters responds: I believe Evans is done. His body is starting to break down, and his confidence is shot. Evans was one of the most durable wide receivers in the game, playing in the first 109 games of his career. But he has now missed 10 of his past 19 regular-season games because of injuries. His numbers have declined for the past four seasons, dropping from 63 catches in 2008 to four in 2011. The Browns definitely need a deep threat, but they need a deep threat who will get out on the field. Evans is a huge question mark.
Ryan from Elkton, Md., writes: With all the cuts the Steelers have done this week, who do you think the Ravens may try to sign to add depth or upgrade if anyone? I was thinking guard Chris Kemoeatu if we are not able to re-sign Ben Grubbs.
Jamison Hensley from AFC North headquarters responds: Kemoeatu wouldn't be a bad addition as long as you're not counting on him to be a starter. The Ravens can't bank on Kemoeatu replacing Grubbs when the Steelers benched him in favor for Doug Legursky. Some team is going to sign Kemoeatu for depth initially and possibly give him another shot to start down the line. He was the Steelers' highest-paid offensive lineman, so he has talent. His biggest problem was being a penalty magnet, which continually held back the offense. Kemoeatu has to became a more disciplined player before he could be considered a candidate to start again.
Megslin from Albany, N.Y., writes: I normally love your writing, and was all ready to agree with everything you said about the Steelers linebacker James Farrior cut being the last. But then you commented that "his play had declined so much he was sharing playing time with Larry Foote." Not exactly. He still ranked as the fourth highest tackler on the team, even while playing less downs. True, with his age, he did have to get spelled with another player on some downs (like Casey Hampton typically does). However, that doesn't mean his play is so awful he needed to come off the field. I realize that's not how you intended to mean it, but as a big Farrior fan who is sad to see the defensive leader, heart of the team, and yes, Steeler starter go, I had to disagree with how you worded it.
Jamison Hensley from AFC North headquarters responds: You can never question Farrior's leadership but you can question his play. It was really noticeable in passing situations. He couldn't cover anyone downfield. That's why he had to be taken off the field. But it was his age (37) that proved to be the biggest factor in why the Steelers chose to cut him over backup Larry Foote (31).
Kory from Hillsborough, Calif., writes: It seems like for the most part historically, kickers who have gotten the franchise tag have gone on to stink it up the following season. I attest that to the fact that kickers need 100 percent of their head into kicking but that they're thinking about their contract situation or about how unpleased they are without a long term commitment by the team. Every year, the kicker's success seems to always come down to the mindset they have out on the field. Should Bengals fans be concerned about Mike Nugent getting tagged? We're all thinking about the Shayne Graham situation that went downhill quickly.
Jamison Hensley from AFC North headquarters responds: It's only natural for Bengals fans to think of how the franchise tag failed to work with Shayne Graham after Cincinnati placed it on Nugent on Friday. I agree with your assessment that the year-to-year nature of the tag can affect the mindset of a kicker, whose play relies heavily on their focus. But I think Nugent will handle the tag just as well as the Browns' Phil Dawson did last year. Dawson converted 24-of-29 field goal attempts, and two of those misses were the result of bad snaps. He also hit seven field goals of 50 yards or longer, and no one in the NFL had more from that distance in 2011. The tag didn't affect Dawson's play.
Wake-up: Hillis open to hometown discount
March, 3, 2012
Mar 3
8:00
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Every morning, grab a cup of coffee and get your AFC North wake-up call here:
Peyton Hillis told the Cleveland Plain Dealer that he is willing to take a "hometown discount" to stay with the Browns, but the running back thinks the team wants him to test free agency, which begins March 13.
"I've always loved this city and I still do love it and I still want to play for the Cleveland Browns," Hillis told the paper. "I'm not sure who wants me there and who doesn't want me there. It's out of my hands at this point. They've said they might want to re-sign me. If I was this horrible person, if I wasn't tough and if I was that big of a mental case, why would they still want to sign me? No matter what happens, I think I proved again and again wherever I go I think I'll make a splash.''
Hillis denied an ESPN report that said he contemplated retirement and thought about joining the CIA. He also said he fired agent Kennard McGuire because he wasn't able to get anything done with the Browns.
Hensley's slant: What's the first rule of the CIA? Oh wait, that was "Fight Club." I get those two mixed up. As far as Hillis' future, he seems like he is willing to work with the Browns to return. For some reason, I get the feeling that he could end up in New England, where the Patriots have made a living off reclamation projects.
BENGALS: Getting the franchise tag is not good for your long-term future with the Bengals, who placed the tag on kicker Mike Nugent on Friday. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the past three times the Bengals have used the franchise tag, the player has left the following year. The most recent was three years ago with kicker Shayne Graham. Hensley's slant: I believe Nugent will break this streak. He proved to be a reliable weapon for the Bengals last season, setting the team record for field goals (33). My guess is Cincinnati will reward him either this year or next with a long-term contract.
RAVENS: The Ravens cut cornerback Chris Carr and wide receiver Lee Evans on Friday. But did the team cut all ties with those high-priced veterans? Comcast SportsNet pointed out this quote from general manager Ozzie Newsome: "As we talked about when we informed Chris and Lee of these moves, this does not close the door on them coming back to the Ravens." Hensley's slant: Carr could still have value to the Ravens as the fourth cornerback, but only at a discounted price. I really can't see the Ravens bringing back Evans, who lost a step as well as all of his confidence last season.
STEELERS: The Steelers cut inside linebacker James Farrior on Friday, but replacing him won't be easy, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune Review's Scott Brown. "Farrior quarterbacked the defense for a decade, making on-field adjustments as skillfully as he plugged running lanes," Brown wrote. "He started all 154 games he played for the Steelers, made two Pro Bowls, earned team MVP honors in 2004 and served as a defensive captain for eight consecutive seasons." Hensley's slant: The release of Farrior was one that caught me off guard. I thought the Steelers would cut backup Larry Foote and keep Farrior. Instead, the Steelers did the reverse.
Peyton Hillis told the Cleveland Plain Dealer that he is willing to take a "hometown discount" to stay with the Browns, but the running back thinks the team wants him to test free agency, which begins March 13.
"I've always loved this city and I still do love it and I still want to play for the Cleveland Browns," Hillis told the paper. "I'm not sure who wants me there and who doesn't want me there. It's out of my hands at this point. They've said they might want to re-sign me. If I was this horrible person, if I wasn't tough and if I was that big of a mental case, why would they still want to sign me? No matter what happens, I think I proved again and again wherever I go I think I'll make a splash.''
Hillis denied an ESPN report that said he contemplated retirement and thought about joining the CIA. He also said he fired agent Kennard McGuire because he wasn't able to get anything done with the Browns.
Hensley's slant: What's the first rule of the CIA? Oh wait, that was "Fight Club." I get those two mixed up. As far as Hillis' future, he seems like he is willing to work with the Browns to return. For some reason, I get the feeling that he could end up in New England, where the Patriots have made a living off reclamation projects.
BENGALS: Getting the franchise tag is not good for your long-term future with the Bengals, who placed the tag on kicker Mike Nugent on Friday. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the past three times the Bengals have used the franchise tag, the player has left the following year. The most recent was three years ago with kicker Shayne Graham. Hensley's slant: I believe Nugent will break this streak. He proved to be a reliable weapon for the Bengals last season, setting the team record for field goals (33). My guess is Cincinnati will reward him either this year or next with a long-term contract.
RAVENS: The Ravens cut cornerback Chris Carr and wide receiver Lee Evans on Friday. But did the team cut all ties with those high-priced veterans? Comcast SportsNet pointed out this quote from general manager Ozzie Newsome: "As we talked about when we informed Chris and Lee of these moves, this does not close the door on them coming back to the Ravens." Hensley's slant: Carr could still have value to the Ravens as the fourth cornerback, but only at a discounted price. I really can't see the Ravens bringing back Evans, who lost a step as well as all of his confidence last season.
STEELERS: The Steelers cut inside linebacker James Farrior on Friday, but replacing him won't be easy, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune Review's Scott Brown. "Farrior quarterbacked the defense for a decade, making on-field adjustments as skillfully as he plugged running lanes," Brown wrote. "He started all 154 games he played for the Steelers, made two Pro Bowls, earned team MVP honors in 2004 and served as a defensive captain for eight consecutive seasons." Hensley's slant: The release of Farrior was one that caught me off guard. I thought the Steelers would cut backup Larry Foote and keep Farrior. Instead, the Steelers did the reverse.
Wake-up call: Which Steeler is going next?
March, 1, 2012
Mar 1
7:30
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Every morning, grab a cup of coffee and get your AFC North wake-up call here:
In the wake the news that wide receiver Hines Ward will be released, inside linebacker Larry Foote and defensive end Aaron Smith are projected to be the next Steelers cut, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Smith, who is scheduled to make $2.1 million this year, has seen four of his past five seasons cut short by injury. Foote, who would make $3 million this year, is expected to get released while declining starter James Farrior would remain.
Hensley's slant: It's been speculated for months that the Steelers would part ways with Smith and either Foote or Farrior to create more salary-cap room. Neither of these moves come close to stirring the emotions of the Steelers' fan base like the release of Ward.
BENGALS: Cincinnati's draft history says the Bengals aren't going to trade up to select Alabama running back Trent Richardson, according to the team's official website. The Bengals traded up once in the first round in their existence, and it resulted in the drafting of -- get ready to cringe -- running back Ki-Jana Carter. Cincinnati also has taken a running back four times in the first round: Archie Griffin in 1976, Charles Alexander in 1979, Carter in 1995 and Chris Perry in 2004. Hensley's slant: This is not surprising, but it's still disappointing. Adding Richardson would have given the Bengals their own version of the triplets with quarterback Andy Dalton and wide receiver A.J. Green.
BROWNS: Running back Peyton Hillis fired his third agent in a year after parting ways with Kennard McGuire, ESPN's Josina Anderson reported. "If we can work something out with Peyton we will," Browns general manager Tom Heckert told Anderson. "Did he have some rough patches during the season? Yes. Were there stretches where things were blown out of proportion? Yes. Honestly, I feel like a lot of that was blown up in the media. Now, of course things will still come down to the money, but we'll just have to wait and see." Hensley's slant: This is the same agent who tried to deflect heat off Hillis this past season when he said he was the one who advised the running back to sit out a game because of strep throat. Hillis then fired him less than two weeks before the start of free agency. When a player cuts ties with an agent, it's usually when the player wants more than the agent thinks he is worth. This is another sign of Hillis' volatility.
RAVENS: Comcast SportsNet's John Eisenberg doesn't expect the Ravens to bring back inside linebacker Bart Scott, who spent seven seasons with the team. From all indications, the Jets are prepared to part ways with Scott, ESPNNewYork.com reported. "Scott will play somewhere in 2012, but probably not in Baltimore," Eisenberg wrote. "The Ravens want to get younger and faster at their signature position, not older and slower." Hensley's slant: I would be shocked if the Ravens decided to bring back Scott. He isn't the same linebacker that left Baltimore after the 2008 season. Scott's diminishing skills caused the Jets to take him off the field on passing downs. The addition of Scott would only slow down the Ravens.
In the wake the news that wide receiver Hines Ward will be released, inside linebacker Larry Foote and defensive end Aaron Smith are projected to be the next Steelers cut, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Smith, who is scheduled to make $2.1 million this year, has seen four of his past five seasons cut short by injury. Foote, who would make $3 million this year, is expected to get released while declining starter James Farrior would remain.
Hensley's slant: It's been speculated for months that the Steelers would part ways with Smith and either Foote or Farrior to create more salary-cap room. Neither of these moves come close to stirring the emotions of the Steelers' fan base like the release of Ward.
BENGALS: Cincinnati's draft history says the Bengals aren't going to trade up to select Alabama running back Trent Richardson, according to the team's official website. The Bengals traded up once in the first round in their existence, and it resulted in the drafting of -- get ready to cringe -- running back Ki-Jana Carter. Cincinnati also has taken a running back four times in the first round: Archie Griffin in 1976, Charles Alexander in 1979, Carter in 1995 and Chris Perry in 2004. Hensley's slant: This is not surprising, but it's still disappointing. Adding Richardson would have given the Bengals their own version of the triplets with quarterback Andy Dalton and wide receiver A.J. Green.
BROWNS: Running back Peyton Hillis fired his third agent in a year after parting ways with Kennard McGuire, ESPN's Josina Anderson reported. "If we can work something out with Peyton we will," Browns general manager Tom Heckert told Anderson. "Did he have some rough patches during the season? Yes. Were there stretches where things were blown out of proportion? Yes. Honestly, I feel like a lot of that was blown up in the media. Now, of course things will still come down to the money, but we'll just have to wait and see." Hensley's slant: This is the same agent who tried to deflect heat off Hillis this past season when he said he was the one who advised the running back to sit out a game because of strep throat. Hillis then fired him less than two weeks before the start of free agency. When a player cuts ties with an agent, it's usually when the player wants more than the agent thinks he is worth. This is another sign of Hillis' volatility.
RAVENS: Comcast SportsNet's John Eisenberg doesn't expect the Ravens to bring back inside linebacker Bart Scott, who spent seven seasons with the team. From all indications, the Jets are prepared to part ways with Scott, ESPNNewYork.com reported. "Scott will play somewhere in 2012, but probably not in Baltimore," Eisenberg wrote. "The Ravens want to get younger and faster at their signature position, not older and slower." Hensley's slant: I would be shocked if the Ravens decided to bring back Scott. He isn't the same linebacker that left Baltimore after the 2008 season. Scott's diminishing skills caused the Jets to take him off the field on passing downs. The addition of Scott would only slow down the Ravens.
Wake-up: Steelers won't 'tear things apart'
January, 18, 2012
Jan 18
7:00
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Every morning, grab a cup of coffee and get your AFC North wake-up call here:
The Pittsburgh Steelers are about $25 million over the salary cap and need to cut about 20 percent of their payroll by the March 13 deadline, according to The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
But the Steelers aren't panicking, at least not publicly.
"It's not a situation where we're looking to tear things apart and start over," team president Art Rooney II told Pittsburgh reporters yesterday.
Rooney, though, acknowledged there will be "some tough decisions."
"I would say it's probably as big an issue as we've had to face," Rooney said. "There will probably have to be some contracts that get restructured and things like that. No question, there's a lot of work to be done."
In the half-hour state-of-the-team interview, Rooney said wide receiver Mike Wallace will be among the priorities this offseason. He becomes a restricted free agent March 13.
The Steelers will also add 3,000 seats to Heinz Field after the 2012 season.
Hensley's slant: Those "tough decisions" will likely come down to players such as nose tackle Casey Hampton ($4.8 million salary in 2012), wide receiver Hines Ward ($4 million), guard Chris Kemoeatu ($3.5 million), inside linebackers Larry Foote ($3 million) and James Farrior ($2.8 million) and cornerback Bryant McFadden ($2.5 million). If these players don't take a pay cut, they probably will be released. The good news for the Steelers is that they bring back their core with quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, three young receivers (unless Wallace goes elsewhere as a restricted free agent), two top-notch pass rushers and Pro Bowl safety Troy Polamalu.
BENGALS: Defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer was considered one of the front-runners for the Dolphins head coaching job earlier this week. Now he is out of the running for it, according to the Miami Herald. The search has been narrowed down to Packers offensive coordinator Joe Philbin, Broncos offensive coordinator Mike McCoy and Dolphins interim coach Todd Bowles, the paper reported. Hensley's slant: Based on the candidates remaining, it appears that the Dolphins want an offensive-minded coach, which eliminated Zimmer from consideration. This is bad news for Zimmer but a good development for the Bengals. While Zimmer still has a chance to get the head-coaching position with the Buccaneers, the Dolphins job was considered his best shot.
BROWNS: The Akron Beacon-Journal's Marla Ridenour was envious of the playoff teams' tight end play over the weekend. This is what Ridenour wrote: "Against Denver, the Patriots got 261 yards (200 receiving) and four touchdowns out of [Rob] Gronkowski and [Aaron] Hernandez. The Browns’ four tight ends — Ben Watson, Evan Moore, Alex Smith and rookie Jordan Cameron — totaled seven touchdowns all season. Hernandez also had a 43-yard run against the Broncos, longer than any Browns’ rush in 2011." Hensley's slant: The Browns are also trailing the rest of the division when it comes to tight ends. Cleveland was the only AFC North team not to have a tight end catch more than 50 passes. The Bengals' Jermaine Gresham (56 catches, six touchdowns), the Ravens' Ed Dickson (54 catches, five touchdowns) and the Steelers' Heath Miller (51 catches, two touchdowns) are all important pieces in the passing game.
RAVENS: I will be at the Ravens' facility where I will post blogs this afternoon. There will be a Joe Flacco column posted at some point today, and the featured blog yesterday was the Double Coverage segment.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are about $25 million over the salary cap and need to cut about 20 percent of their payroll by the March 13 deadline, according to The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
But the Steelers aren't panicking, at least not publicly.
"It's not a situation where we're looking to tear things apart and start over," team president Art Rooney II told Pittsburgh reporters yesterday.
Rooney, though, acknowledged there will be "some tough decisions."
"I would say it's probably as big an issue as we've had to face," Rooney said. "There will probably have to be some contracts that get restructured and things like that. No question, there's a lot of work to be done."
In the half-hour state-of-the-team interview, Rooney said wide receiver Mike Wallace will be among the priorities this offseason. He becomes a restricted free agent March 13.
The Steelers will also add 3,000 seats to Heinz Field after the 2012 season.
Hensley's slant: Those "tough decisions" will likely come down to players such as nose tackle Casey Hampton ($4.8 million salary in 2012), wide receiver Hines Ward ($4 million), guard Chris Kemoeatu ($3.5 million), inside linebackers Larry Foote ($3 million) and James Farrior ($2.8 million) and cornerback Bryant McFadden ($2.5 million). If these players don't take a pay cut, they probably will be released. The good news for the Steelers is that they bring back their core with quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, three young receivers (unless Wallace goes elsewhere as a restricted free agent), two top-notch pass rushers and Pro Bowl safety Troy Polamalu.
BENGALS: Defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer was considered one of the front-runners for the Dolphins head coaching job earlier this week. Now he is out of the running for it, according to the Miami Herald. The search has been narrowed down to Packers offensive coordinator Joe Philbin, Broncos offensive coordinator Mike McCoy and Dolphins interim coach Todd Bowles, the paper reported. Hensley's slant: Based on the candidates remaining, it appears that the Dolphins want an offensive-minded coach, which eliminated Zimmer from consideration. This is bad news for Zimmer but a good development for the Bengals. While Zimmer still has a chance to get the head-coaching position with the Buccaneers, the Dolphins job was considered his best shot.
BROWNS: The Akron Beacon-Journal's Marla Ridenour was envious of the playoff teams' tight end play over the weekend. This is what Ridenour wrote: "Against Denver, the Patriots got 261 yards (200 receiving) and four touchdowns out of [Rob] Gronkowski and [Aaron] Hernandez. The Browns’ four tight ends — Ben Watson, Evan Moore, Alex Smith and rookie Jordan Cameron — totaled seven touchdowns all season. Hernandez also had a 43-yard run against the Broncos, longer than any Browns’ rush in 2011." Hensley's slant: The Browns are also trailing the rest of the division when it comes to tight ends. Cleveland was the only AFC North team not to have a tight end catch more than 50 passes. The Bengals' Jermaine Gresham (56 catches, six touchdowns), the Ravens' Ed Dickson (54 catches, five touchdowns) and the Steelers' Heath Miller (51 catches, two touchdowns) are all important pieces in the passing game.
RAVENS: I will be at the Ravens' facility where I will post blogs this afternoon. There will be a Joe Flacco column posted at some point today, and the featured blog yesterday was the Double Coverage segment.
If you have a question about the AFC North, send it to my mailbag. It's Saturday morning, so let's open up some mail ...
Jac, from Ohio, writes: Lately you have been saying that the Bengals need a No. 2 receiver, if and when Jerome Simpson leaves. I would think that Jordan Shipley would fill the No. 2 role in the slot behind A.J. Green. Or would Shipley be more of a No. 3 working the slot? And if Andrew Hawkins improves in the offseason, that would be a plus, right?
Jamison Hensley, from AFC North headquarters, responds: Shipley and Hawkins are more on the level of being No. 3 receivers. That was the Bengals' biggest problem in the passing game. They had top targets in Green and tight end Jermaine Gresham. But the rest (Simpson and Andre Caldwell) are No. 3 receivers on many teams. Both are very athletic but both struggle with route-running, which can be a big problem, especially for a developing young quarterback like Andy Dalton. Cincinnati needs to look in free agency for an upgrade.
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Chris, from Milford, Conn., writes: Just wondering what your thoughts are on the Steelers rebounding next season after that awful loss to Denver. Also, how can the Steelers be $20 million over the salary cap when they never sign any big free agents and don't have that many mega-deals with current players?
Hensley responds: The Steelers will always be competing for the division title if Ben Roethlisberger and his young receivers are healthy and the core of the NFL's top-ranked defense remains intact. And the reason why the Steelers are projected to be over the cap is because many veterans are entering the point of their contracts where the salaries escalate. Players with high salaries for 2012 are: outside linebacker James Harrison ($5.3 million), guard Chris Kemoeatu ($3.5 million), inside linebackers Larry Foote ($3 million) and James Farrior ($2.8 million), defensive end Brett Keisel ($2.8 million) and cornerback Bryant McFadden ($2.5 million). Those players represent $19.9 million. Some could be facing the decision of restructuring to stay with the team or getting released.
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Bryan, from Wickliffe Ohio, writes: I was just wondering what you think the Browns' chances are of drafting Robert Griffin III. To me it just seems like he is too much of a talent to pass up. No disrespect to Colt McCoy, but let's face it -- he's not going to win us any games based primarily on his skill level and I see RG3 as somone who can do that.
Hensley responds: It's really to early for teams to lock into one player. There are still all-star games, combine workouts and interviews as well as private workouts. Players will rise and fall up and down teams' draft board from now until April. There's no doubt that the Browns need a playmaker. But don't forget that the Bengals drafted wide receiver A.J. Green in the No. 4 spot last year — so you can see the level of impact player that Cleveland can get if it hits on the right prospect. At this point, Griffin has to be on the Browns' radar. But it's too early to say that he's their man with the fourth overall pick.
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Dave, from Burke, Va., writes: With the Bucs and Dolphins in the mix for Mike Zimmer's services, what are the chances that he returns as Cincinnati's defensive coordinator?
Hensley responds: It's a very real possibility that Zimmer could be hired elsewhere, particularly since Jeff Fisher spurned Miami and went to St. Louis. Both the Buccaneers and the Dolphins needed big-name splashes to generate some interest with apathetic fan bases. But there are really no buzz-worthy candidates left. That's why Zimmer has a legitimate shot at both places. If Zimmer goes, the Bengals can promote defensive backs coach Kevin Coyle, who has been on the staff since 2001. There's also been some talk that former Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio could take over as defensive coordinator. But Del Rio is still owed $5 million next season, so he doesn't need to find a job.
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Lucas from Severn, Md., writes: I've been watching the Ravens closely all season and there have been some real flashes of greatness by Joe Flacco. There have also been some of his worst passing games as a quarterback (the Jets and Jags games specifically). Other than the playoff game against Kansas City last year, he hasn't proven to be solid in the playoffs. What are the chances that he will have a breakout game against Houston if the Texans choose to focus on stopping the run?
Hensley responds: Flacco has been extremely ragged when it comes to the playoffs. He's averaged 150 yards passing in seven games, throwing four touchdowns and seven interceptions. But remember that all of those games were on the road and three of them came when he was a rookie. This is the time for Flacco to shine. He's at home where he has thrown 29 touchdowns and eight interceptions in his past 19 games (97.6 rating). And he threw for 305 yards against the Texans three months ago in Baltimore. So to answer the question, all indications point to a strong effort by Flacco on Sunday.
Jac, from Ohio, writes: Lately you have been saying that the Bengals need a No. 2 receiver, if and when Jerome Simpson leaves. I would think that Jordan Shipley would fill the No. 2 role in the slot behind A.J. Green. Or would Shipley be more of a No. 3 working the slot? And if Andrew Hawkins improves in the offseason, that would be a plus, right?
Jamison Hensley, from AFC North headquarters, responds: Shipley and Hawkins are more on the level of being No. 3 receivers. That was the Bengals' biggest problem in the passing game. They had top targets in Green and tight end Jermaine Gresham. But the rest (Simpson and Andre Caldwell) are No. 3 receivers on many teams. Both are very athletic but both struggle with route-running, which can be a big problem, especially for a developing young quarterback like Andy Dalton. Cincinnati needs to look in free agency for an upgrade.
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Chris, from Milford, Conn., writes: Just wondering what your thoughts are on the Steelers rebounding next season after that awful loss to Denver. Also, how can the Steelers be $20 million over the salary cap when they never sign any big free agents and don't have that many mega-deals with current players?
Hensley responds: The Steelers will always be competing for the division title if Ben Roethlisberger and his young receivers are healthy and the core of the NFL's top-ranked defense remains intact. And the reason why the Steelers are projected to be over the cap is because many veterans are entering the point of their contracts where the salaries escalate. Players with high salaries for 2012 are: outside linebacker James Harrison ($5.3 million), guard Chris Kemoeatu ($3.5 million), inside linebackers Larry Foote ($3 million) and James Farrior ($2.8 million), defensive end Brett Keisel ($2.8 million) and cornerback Bryant McFadden ($2.5 million). Those players represent $19.9 million. Some could be facing the decision of restructuring to stay with the team or getting released.
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Bryan, from Wickliffe Ohio, writes: I was just wondering what you think the Browns' chances are of drafting Robert Griffin III. To me it just seems like he is too much of a talent to pass up. No disrespect to Colt McCoy, but let's face it -- he's not going to win us any games based primarily on his skill level and I see RG3 as somone who can do that.
Hensley responds: It's really to early for teams to lock into one player. There are still all-star games, combine workouts and interviews as well as private workouts. Players will rise and fall up and down teams' draft board from now until April. There's no doubt that the Browns need a playmaker. But don't forget that the Bengals drafted wide receiver A.J. Green in the No. 4 spot last year — so you can see the level of impact player that Cleveland can get if it hits on the right prospect. At this point, Griffin has to be on the Browns' radar. But it's too early to say that he's their man with the fourth overall pick.
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Dave, from Burke, Va., writes: With the Bucs and Dolphins in the mix for Mike Zimmer's services, what are the chances that he returns as Cincinnati's defensive coordinator?
Hensley responds: It's a very real possibility that Zimmer could be hired elsewhere, particularly since Jeff Fisher spurned Miami and went to St. Louis. Both the Buccaneers and the Dolphins needed big-name splashes to generate some interest with apathetic fan bases. But there are really no buzz-worthy candidates left. That's why Zimmer has a legitimate shot at both places. If Zimmer goes, the Bengals can promote defensive backs coach Kevin Coyle, who has been on the staff since 2001. There's also been some talk that former Jaguars head coach Jack Del Rio could take over as defensive coordinator. But Del Rio is still owed $5 million next season, so he doesn't need to find a job.
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Lucas from Severn, Md., writes: I've been watching the Ravens closely all season and there have been some real flashes of greatness by Joe Flacco. There have also been some of his worst passing games as a quarterback (the Jets and Jags games specifically). Other than the playoff game against Kansas City last year, he hasn't proven to be solid in the playoffs. What are the chances that he will have a breakout game against Houston if the Texans choose to focus on stopping the run?
Hensley responds: Flacco has been extremely ragged when it comes to the playoffs. He's averaged 150 yards passing in seven games, throwing four touchdowns and seven interceptions. But remember that all of those games were on the road and three of them came when he was a rookie. This is the time for Flacco to shine. He's at home where he has thrown 29 touchdowns and eight interceptions in his past 19 games (97.6 rating). And he threw for 305 yards against the Texans three months ago in Baltimore. So to answer the question, all indications point to a strong effort by Flacco on Sunday.
Revisiting the Pittsburgh Steelers' 14-3 win over the visiting Cleveland Browns:
The "old and slow" defense is starting to hit its stride. The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking like the same intimidating defense from years past in shutting down offenses and taking the ball away from them.
On Thursday night, the Steelers nearly had as many turnovers (two) as points allowed (three). Pittsburgh has now held its past three opponents under 10 points.
The tone was set on the Browns' opening drive, which went from Cleveland's 20-yard line to the Steelers' 1. One play after replay overturned Colt McCoy's 2-yard touchdown scramble, Pittsburgh linebacker Larry Foote hit Browns running back Peyton Hillis for a 1-yard loss on third-and-goal to force Cleveland to kick a field goal.
The Browns' only other trip in the red zone came on their second-to-last possession of the game. That ended with Steelers cornerback William Gay intercepting McCoy in the end zone on third-and-goal.
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin opened his postgame news conference by praising Pittsburgh's red zone defense (and not Ben Roethlisberger's dramatic return from a high ankle sprain). "It's the reason why we won the game," Tomlin said.
STAT THAT STICKS: 6 -- Steelers' opening drives in the past nine games that finished with a touchdown. Pittsburgh is 6-0 when reaching the end zone on its first possession of games.
OVERHEARD: "We aren't surprised by his contributions. We've seen it for two years on the practice field. This guy comes to work every day, and it's good football justice. We respect him in terms of his big playmaking ability, but we respect him more for how he approaches his profession at work." -- Steelers coach Mike Tomlin on wide receiver Antonio Brown, who had five catches for 151 yards and one touchdown.
INJURY LIST: Pro Bowl center Maurkice Pouncey suffered a high ankle injury shortly after Roethlisberger and didn't return. ... Tomlin mentioned after the game that safety Troy Polamalu may have tweaked his hamstring. "I don't know how significant it is," Tomlin said. "We just got him out of the game to exercise some caution."
WHAT'S NEXT: The Steelers (10-3) have a 10-day break before playing at NFC West champion San Francisco (10-2) on "Monday Night Football." The 49ers have beaten their past two opponents at home by a combined score of 49-7.
The "old and slow" defense is starting to hit its stride. The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking like the same intimidating defense from years past in shutting down offenses and taking the ball away from them.
On Thursday night, the Steelers nearly had as many turnovers (two) as points allowed (three). Pittsburgh has now held its past three opponents under 10 points.
The tone was set on the Browns' opening drive, which went from Cleveland's 20-yard line to the Steelers' 1. One play after replay overturned Colt McCoy's 2-yard touchdown scramble, Pittsburgh linebacker Larry Foote hit Browns running back Peyton Hillis for a 1-yard loss on third-and-goal to force Cleveland to kick a field goal.
The Browns' only other trip in the red zone came on their second-to-last possession of the game. That ended with Steelers cornerback William Gay intercepting McCoy in the end zone on third-and-goal.
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin opened his postgame news conference by praising Pittsburgh's red zone defense (and not Ben Roethlisberger's dramatic return from a high ankle sprain). "It's the reason why we won the game," Tomlin said.
STAT THAT STICKS: 6 -- Steelers' opening drives in the past nine games that finished with a touchdown. Pittsburgh is 6-0 when reaching the end zone on its first possession of games.
OVERHEARD: "We aren't surprised by his contributions. We've seen it for two years on the practice field. This guy comes to work every day, and it's good football justice. We respect him in terms of his big playmaking ability, but we respect him more for how he approaches his profession at work." -- Steelers coach Mike Tomlin on wide receiver Antonio Brown, who had five catches for 151 yards and one touchdown.
INJURY LIST: Pro Bowl center Maurkice Pouncey suffered a high ankle injury shortly after Roethlisberger and didn't return. ... Tomlin mentioned after the game that safety Troy Polamalu may have tweaked his hamstring. "I don't know how significant it is," Tomlin said. "We just got him out of the game to exercise some caution."
WHAT'S NEXT: The Steelers (10-3) have a 10-day break before playing at NFC West champion San Francisco (10-2) on "Monday Night Football." The 49ers have beaten their past two opponents at home by a combined score of 49-7.
The Rivalry: Matchup of the day
November, 3, 2011
11/03/11
11:55
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
The AFC North blog will take a look at a matchup each day leading up to Sunday night's game between the NFL's biggest rivals -- the Ravens and Steelers -- and get a take from Matt Williamson of Scouts Inc.
MATCHUP OF THE DAY
WHO: Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Steelers LBs Larry Foote and Lawrence Timmons
BREAKDOWN: Rice was once again a big part of the Ravens' offense after getting only eight carries in Jacksonville. He ran for 63 yards and scored a career-high three touchdowns in a comeback win over Arizona. Rice has been hot or cold against the Steelers. In the past five meetings, Rice has gained over 100 yards twice and has been held under 33 yards rushing three times. The Steelers are juggling their linebackers because of injuries. Foote is expected to replace James Farrior at inside linebacker again, and Timmons might move back to the inside if James Harrison or Jason Worilds can play. Pittsburgh ranks No. 8 in run defense, giving up 99.1 yards per game.
WILLIAMSON'S TAKE: "I guess this depends on where Timmons lines up -- either at inside linebacker or outside linebacker. Timmons is a great player with a ton of ability, but he hasn't played as well this year and is MUCH better at inside linebacker than on the outside. Tough to comment on this matchup overall since we really don't know who will be playing where. [Coach Mike] Tomlin also mentioned that they might have to play a lot of 4 DL sets (4-2-5) because of their linebacker injuries. That would make Troy Polamalu even more of a wild card and even closer to the line of scrimmage with more regularity."
WHO: Ravens RB Ray Rice vs. Steelers LBs Larry Foote and Lawrence Timmons
BREAKDOWN: Rice was once again a big part of the Ravens' offense after getting only eight carries in Jacksonville. He ran for 63 yards and scored a career-high three touchdowns in a comeback win over Arizona. Rice has been hot or cold against the Steelers. In the past five meetings, Rice has gained over 100 yards twice and has been held under 33 yards rushing three times. The Steelers are juggling their linebackers because of injuries. Foote is expected to replace James Farrior at inside linebacker again, and Timmons might move back to the inside if James Harrison or Jason Worilds can play. Pittsburgh ranks No. 8 in run defense, giving up 99.1 yards per game.
WILLIAMSON'S TAKE: "I guess this depends on where Timmons lines up -- either at inside linebacker or outside linebacker. Timmons is a great player with a ton of ability, but he hasn't played as well this year and is MUCH better at inside linebacker than on the outside. Tough to comment on this matchup overall since we really don't know who will be playing where. [Coach Mike] Tomlin also mentioned that they might have to play a lot of 4 DL sets (4-2-5) because of their linebacker injuries. That would make Troy Polamalu even more of a wild card and even closer to the line of scrimmage with more regularity."
Wake-up call: Time to unleash Peyton Hillis
September, 16, 2011
9/16/11
9:24
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Every morning, grab a cup of coffee and get your AFC North wake-up call here:
The fact that they don't have to face Peyton Manning certainly helps the Cleveland Browns' chances of avoiding an 0-2 start for the fourth straight season. But as The Plain Dealer's Tony Grossi points out, the Browns can't forget there is a Peyton who is suiting up -- running back Peyton Hillis.
In the season-opening loss to the Bengals, the Browns handed the ball to Hillis 17 times for 57 yards. On Sunday, Cleveland will be facing an Indianapolis run defense whose ranking the past three years has been: 25th, 24th and 24th.
"I don't know if it's time, but to run the ball at people would be nice," Hillis told The Plain Dealer.
Hensley's slant: Other than playing catch-up in the second half, there is really no reason for Hillis to get less than 20 carries per game. He probably should get 25 carries against the Colts. The best way to negate pass-rushers Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis is a strong running game. The Colts gave up 167 yards rushing to a Houston Texans team that was playing without NFL rushing champion Arian Foster.
The fact that they don't have to face Peyton Manning certainly helps the Cleveland Browns' chances of avoiding an 0-2 start for the fourth straight season. But as The Plain Dealer's Tony Grossi points out, the Browns can't forget there is a Peyton who is suiting up -- running back Peyton Hillis.
In the season-opening loss to the Bengals, the Browns handed the ball to Hillis 17 times for 57 yards. On Sunday, Cleveland will be facing an Indianapolis run defense whose ranking the past three years has been: 25th, 24th and 24th.
"I don't know if it's time, but to run the ball at people would be nice," Hillis told The Plain Dealer.
Hensley's slant: Other than playing catch-up in the second half, there is really no reason for Hillis to get less than 20 carries per game. He probably should get 25 carries against the Colts. The best way to negate pass-rushers Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis is a strong running game. The Colts gave up 167 yards rushing to a Houston Texans team that was playing without NFL rushing champion Arian Foster.
- RAVENS: Players and coaches scoffed at Chris Johnson's claim that the Ravens intended to hurt the Titans' speedy running back in a playoff game three years ago. Johnson had 100 yards from scrimmage before leaving with an ankle injury. Said Ravens defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano: "They've been playing a certain brand of football and defense here for a long, long time, so I don't take offense to it. It's just how we roll. It's straight up, it's clean, it's physical. We try to [impose] our physical and mental will on people. There's going to be some casualties." Hensley's slant: The Ravens might not intend to take out running backs, but they have a history of doing so. Ray Lewis ended the season of Steelers running back Rashard Mendenhall a couple of years ago. In last year's playoffs, the Ravens removed Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles from the game after mammoth nose tackle Terrence Cody landed on him.
- BENGALS: Durable defensive end Robert Geathers is considered questionable after missing his second straight day of practice with a shoulder injury. If Geathers is sidelined, Carlos Dunlap is expected to replace him in the starting lineup at Denver. Hensley's slant: Being short-handed on defense pales in comparison to what the Broncos are going through. Five Denver starters have missed practice Wednesday and Thursday: Champ Bailey (hamstring), Elvis Dumervil (shoulder), Knowshon Moreno (hamstring), Brandon Lloyd (groin), and D.J. Williams (elbow).
- STEELERS: James Farrior is dealing with a rotation with Larry Foote at linebacker. He paced the sideline after getting pulled for the last three possessions of the first half in Baltimore. "We understand that part of the business," Farrior told The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, "but I'm not going out easy." Hensley's slant: Transition can be difficult with veteran players, especially when it involves popular leaders in the locker room. But one of the Steelers' strengths has been knowing when to make the transition. They've successfully done it before and they'll do it again.
This week we kick off our series on the top draft classes in the AFC North of the past decade.
We will hit one team each day, starting Monday with the Pittsburgh Steelers. On Friday, we will compile the best of the best and rank the top draft classes overall in the division.
Let's get it started.
No. 3: Class of 2003
Best picks: S Troy Polamalu (first round) and CB Ike Taylor (fourth round)
PolamaluAnalysis: The Steelers had a limited number of picks in this draft, because they traded up to get a player they really liked in Polamalu. Pittsburgh was confident Polamalu was special, and it was the right call. Polamalu, the NFL's reigning Defensive Player of the Year, is putting together a Hall of Fame career and already has led Pittsburgh’s defense to three Super Bowl appearances and two titles. That pick alone makes this class worthy of consideration. But the Steelers also landed No. 1 cornerback Taylor in the fourth round, making this draft the hallmark of the team’s secondary for years to come. Pittsburgh only had five picks in 2003 and hit home runs on two.
No. 2: Class of 2002
Best picks: G Kendall Simmons (first round), WR Antwaan Randle El (second round), S Chris Hope (third round), LB Larry Foote (fourth round), DE Brett Keisel (seventh round)
Keisel Analysis: This class lacks the star power, but has a ton of depth with five starters. Arguably the best player to come out of this draft is Keisel, who was the final pick for Pittsburgh in 2002 and No. 242 overall. Keisel, 32, remains a longtime starter for the Steelers, and qualified for his first Pro Bowl as an alternate this past season. Hope and Simmons were both good players who eventually bolted for free agency. Hope has started for the Tennessee Titans the past five seasons. Randle El and Foote won three combined Super Bowl rings with the Steelers, and remain role players on the team.
No. 1: Class of 2007
Best picks: LB Lawrence Timmons (first round), LB LaMarr Woodley (second round), TE Matt Spaeth (third round), P Daniel Sepulveda (fourth round), CB William Gay (fifth round)
Woodley
Analysis: The 2007 draft has stars and depth, making it Pittsburgh's best class of the past decade. The Steelers are never shy to draft linebackers, and they took Timmons and Woodley with back-to-back picks, building their foundation for years to come. Both are now starters entering their prime. Woodley already has one Pro Bowl and became the second Steeler to record three consecutive years of double-digit sacks. After hitting big in the first two rounds, Pittsburgh landed three role players in the middle rounds with Gay, Spaeth and Sepulveda. They each contributed to Pittsburgh's past two Super Bowl runs to varying degrees, although Sepulveda has mostly battled knee injuries in his career.
On Tuesday we will take an in-depth look at the draft classes of the Cincinnati Bengals.
We will hit one team each day, starting Monday with the Pittsburgh Steelers. On Friday, we will compile the best of the best and rank the top draft classes overall in the division.
Let's get it started.
No. 3: Class of 2003
Best picks: S Troy Polamalu (first round) and CB Ike Taylor (fourth round)
No. 2: Class of 2002
Best picks: G Kendall Simmons (first round), WR Antwaan Randle El (second round), S Chris Hope (third round), LB Larry Foote (fourth round), DE Brett Keisel (seventh round)
No. 1: Class of 2007
Best picks: LB Lawrence Timmons (first round), LB LaMarr Woodley (second round), TE Matt Spaeth (third round), P Daniel Sepulveda (fourth round), CB William Gay (fifth round)
Woodley
Analysis: The 2007 draft has stars and depth, making it Pittsburgh's best class of the past decade. The Steelers are never shy to draft linebackers, and they took Timmons and Woodley with back-to-back picks, building their foundation for years to come. Both are now starters entering their prime. Woodley already has one Pro Bowl and became the second Steeler to record three consecutive years of double-digit sacks. After hitting big in the first two rounds, Pittsburgh landed three role players in the middle rounds with Gay, Spaeth and Sepulveda. They each contributed to Pittsburgh's past two Super Bowl runs to varying degrees, although Sepulveda has mostly battled knee injuries in his career.
On Tuesday we will take an in-depth look at the draft classes of the Cincinnati Bengals.
Here is an update on the latest happenings Tuesday in the AFC North:
- Baltimore Ravens Pro Bowl defensive lineman Haloti Ngata (back) returned to practice and will play in Thursday's preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers.
- With Brian Leonard injured (foot), the Cincinnati Bengals signed running back James Johnson.
- Pittsburgh Steelers middle linebacker Larry Foote is willing to take a smaller role this season.
- The Cleveland Browns suffered three injuries in Tuesday morning's practice: cornerback Eric Wright, linebacker Marcus Bernard and defensive lineman Brian Schaefering.
AFC North links: Deja vu in Pittsburgh
June, 7, 2010
6/07/10
10:55
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Baltimore Ravens
Wide receiver David Reed impressed his coaches during a rookie minicamp last week.
Free agent rookie wide receiver Rodelin Anthony is a big man (6-foot-5, 230 pounds) who could create matchup problems for opponents.
Cincinnati Bengals
The battle between Dave Rayner and Mike Nugent for kicking duties is heating up.
Cleveland Browns
Browns legend Jim Brown is staying mum about the team taking away his "executive adviser" title.
The Browns have accumulated depth at cornerback and linebacker, a luxury the team didn't have at the start of last season.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The team released long-snapper Jared Retkofsky.
Scott Brown of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review looks at the four former Steelers -- Larry Foote, Antwaan Randle El, Bryant McFadden and Byron Leftwich -- that the team either signed or traded for during the offseason.
Ben Roethlisberger has a long way to go in rehabilitating his image.
Wide receiver David Reed impressed his coaches during a rookie minicamp last week.
Free agent rookie wide receiver Rodelin Anthony is a big man (6-foot-5, 230 pounds) who could create matchup problems for opponents.
Cincinnati Bengals
The battle between Dave Rayner and Mike Nugent for kicking duties is heating up.
Cleveland Browns
Browns legend Jim Brown is staying mum about the team taking away his "executive adviser" title.
The Browns have accumulated depth at cornerback and linebacker, a luxury the team didn't have at the start of last season.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The team released long-snapper Jared Retkofsky.
Scott Brown of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review looks at the four former Steelers -- Larry Foote, Antwaan Randle El, Bryant McFadden and Byron Leftwich -- that the team either signed or traded for during the offseason.
Ben Roethlisberger has a long way to go in rehabilitating his image.
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.
