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The AFC North blog wanted to know what the fans thought about the drafts for each of the division teams. Now, let's compare your grades against the ones given by ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr.:

CINCINNATI BENGALS

The picks: CB Dre Kirkpatrick (first round), G Kevin Zeitler (first round), DT Devon Still (second round), WR Mohamed Sanu (third round), DT Brandon Thompson (third round), TE Orson Charles (fourth round), CB Shaun Prater (fifth round), WR Marvin Jones (fifth round), S George Iloka (fifth round), RB Dan "Boom" Herron (sixth round).

Kiper's grade: A-minus

Fans' grade: A (42 percent in the SportsNation poll)

Fans' comments:

Adam from Dayton: Bengals Draft Grade: A -- I thought that the Bengals did an excellent job in adding depth. The one "head scratcher" that seemed to come about this year was trading their second first round pick when they could have got David DeCastro, the highest-rated guard. Granted they received an extra pick and still grabbed a very big and strong guard a few picks later in Kevin Zeitler with that trade, I think it really boiled down to the fact they could have got the best guard, instead all of Bengal Nation saw him go to the Steelers. All-in-all, everyone knows the AFC North is an old-school run -first division, so beefing up the D-Line with a couple of huge, strong, and athletic linemen was a sound way to go and I for one am happy to see the new blood that the team has. These Bengals have tapped into the fountain of youth rather quickly, yet they are getting better and being built for the future.

Andheez: I went for an A. Kirkpatrick is solid. Zeitler is a beast. Some publications had Still as the top DT pre-combine. Not sold on Sanu, but I think the Charles pick was fantastic. I am not one to ostracize someone for a DUI. Prater, Iloka and Herron probably won't stick, but sounds like Jones was a nice find.

mann_usmc: I give the Bengals a C. Here we go drafting a CB in the first round again. Keep Johnathan Joseph and you can fill other spots (safety). The next four picks draw a big question mark. If you're going to draft an OG, then why not take the best prospect in a decade in DeCastro? You pass on him and allow the Steelers to draft him and all you gain is a third-round pick. That is a big miss in my opinion. Secondly, you draft two DTs when you already have Domata Peko and Geno Atkins. Sure these guys provide depth, but I would think that with my second-round and third-round picks to be a contributor. I wouldn't use draft picks that high for backups.

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CLEVELAND BROWNS

The picks: RB Trent Richardson (first round), QB Brandon Weeden (first round), OT Mitchell Schwartz (second round), NT John Hughes (third round), WR Travis Benjamin (fourth round), LB James-Michael Johnson (fourth round), G Ryan Miller (fifth round), LB Emmanuel Acho (sixth round), DL Billy Winn (sixth round), CB Trevin Wade (seventh round), TE-FB Brad Smelley (seventh round).

Kiper's grade: B-minus

Fans' grade: B (38 percent)

Fans' comments:

Kovacs from Dallas: This draft is an A if Weeden works out but probably a low B or high C if he doesn't. Worst case the draft added two starters at key positions, RB and RT, and much-needed depth at areas where it was badly needed, DT and LB. If that's the worst case it's still a nice-looking haul.

Kyle from Columbus, Ohio: The Browns did a pretty good job of filling some holes and adding some depth. I really like the T. Richardson pick, but I think they reached a little for B. Weeden. My only complaint is that if you decide to take a first-round QB, you have to give him some weapons. T. Benjamin looks like a special-team guy, who may help out in the slot.

JBT1MIAMI: Simple D-minus. I'm still waiting for any fan to address why it's not an issue that Trent Richardson didn't compete at the combine because he had his knee scoped. How is he any better injury-wise than [Montario] Hardesty, knowing he's also had both ankles reconstructed. Why no issue with this? Why not just trade for [Rashard] Mendenhall if it's no issue. He's proven on the pro level. Think Steelers believe this kind of thing is an issue with running backs? I guess it's like training a dog, people have to separate emotional attachment of drafting a hyped running back, and learn about calm reasoning. Emotions just gave the Browns a 3-13 record.

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BALTIMORE RAVENS

The picks: OLB Courtney Upshaw (second round), OT-G Kelechi Osemele (second round), RB Bernard Pierce (third round), C-G Gino Gradkowski (fourth round), S Christian Thompson (fourth round), CB Asa Jackson (fifth round), WR Tommy Streeter (sixth round), DT DeAngelo Tyson (seventh round).

Kiper's grade: B

Fans' grade: B (40 percent)

Fans' comments:

Shadowwolf1001: It's really toss-up. There are some strong picks here that would warrant an A, but there are also some picks I'm not too sure about which probably warrant a B. I'd have to vote B-plus with the potential of an A grade later on.

jdille123: C-plus. Ozzie [Newsome] must have taken this one off. Still got some good talent, but he usually does better.

youmadbromad: I gave them a D because they did not draft a new FG kicker.

Dave from Mansfield, Ohio: I'm giving the Raven a 'B.' They came into the draft with holes at LB, OT, OG and filled all of these needs. However while Upshaw should help feel the void left by Terrell Suggs, Kelechi Osemele should step in and start at guard and hopefully Gino Gradkowski develops as the replacement for Matt Birk. Plus Tommy Streeter has the potential to be a huge steal if his football skills catch up to his physical stature and speed.

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PITTSBURGH STEELERS

The picks: G David DeCastro (first round), OT Mike Adams (second round), ILB Sean Spence (third round), NT Alameda Ta'amu (fourth round), RB Chris Rainey (fifth round), WR Toney Clemons (seventh round), TE David Paulson (seventh round), CB Terrence Frederick (seventh round), G Kelvin Beachum (seventh round).

Kiper's grade: B

Fans' grade: A (61 percent)

Fans' comments:

WhoDeyAJGreen: As a Bengal fan (obviously) and an OSU football fan, I graded them as a A-minus. Great value picks while also filling needs. The player that will make the difference between an A-minus and A-plus is Mike Adams. If he can get his [act] together, then they had one heck of a draft from top to bottom.

Are the Baltimore Ravens set on the offensive line?

That remains to be seen. The other teams in the division improved their offensive lines in the draft. The Steelers got the top-rated guard (David DeCastro) in the first round, the Bengals added the best run-blocking guard (Kevin Zeitler) and the Browns grabbed the best right tackle prospect (Mitchell Schwartz). The Ravens bring back four starters from a line that got better as the season progressed, but there's been a significant downgrade at one spot.

At left guard, the Ravens are going from a Pro Bowl player in Ben Grubbs to a lineman who played tackle in college (either Jah Reid or Kelechi Osemele). By looking at Baltimore's moves, it doesn't seem like the Ravens are sold on Reid, a third-round pick in 2011, starting there. After failing to keep Grubbs (who signed with New Orleans in free agency), Baltimore tried to lure free agent Evan Mathis away from the Eagles and then used a second-round pick on Osemele. The Ravens have had only one rookie start a full season on the offensive line in the previous four seasons (Michael Oher in 2009).

There are other issues on the line beyond left guard. The Ravens need left tackle Bryant McKinnie to lose weight and cut his sacks allowed (he led the team with 8.5). They need right tackle Oher to reduce his penalties (four for false starts and five for holding). And they need Matt Birk, 36, to continue his streak of 96 straight games played. While the offseason focus will remain on the contract status of Joe Flacco and Ray Rice, the real storyline on offense entering the 2012 season is the state of Baltimore's line.

Let's break down the Baltimore Ravens' 2012 draft:

FIRST-ROUND SPOTLIGHT: The Ravens traded out of the first round, but they still got a first-round talent in Alabama outside linebacker Courtney Upshaw. He will set the edge on run defense like Jarret Johnson, who went to San Diego in free agency, and he will team with Terrell Suggs as Baltimore's edge pass rushers (Upshaw had 15.5 sacks in the past two seasons). He has a high motor and lots of motivation after falling into the second round. “Once we get back to football," Upshaw said, "it's going to be me just wanting to go out there and prove someone should've taken me.”

IN HINDSIGHT: In addition to outside linebacker, the Ravens' biggest need was left guard. Baltimore should've thought about trading up from its second pick in the second round to get Midwestern State's Amini Silatolu or Georgia's Cordy Glenn, who were selected 40th and 41st overall. The price would've been a third-round pick, which the Ravens used on Temple running back Bernard Pierce.

BEST VALUE: C-G Gino Gradkowski, Delaware. He received a third-round grade by some teams and slipped into the early part of the fourth round. Smart and athletic, Gradkowski is expected to be groomed as the successor to Matt Birk, who turns 36 before the start of training camp. The last time the Ravens used a fourth-round pick on a center was Jason Brown in 2005.

TOP LATE-ROUND PICKUP: WR Tommy Streeter, Miami. This was a no-brainer for the Ravens to take a flier on Streeter in the sixth round. Some thought he could go as early as the second round, but his inexperience (a one-year producer) and inconsistent hands scared off teams. The Ravens needed another deep threat for Joe Flacco, and Streeter's size (6 feet 5) and speed (he reportedly ran the 40-yard dash in 4.4 seconds) is definitely intriguing.

SOMEONE WHO DIDN'T LIKE THIS DRAFT: Paul Kruger. He's waited to find his spot in the starting lineup since he was selected by the Ravens in the second round three years ago. It looked like he would finally get his opportunity when Johnson signed with the Chargers in free agency. But he's no longer a favorite for that outside linebacker job since the Ravens drafted Upshaw.

The Baltimore Ravens are hoping they found their center of the future when they selected Delaware's Gino Gradkowski early in the fourth round.

At 6-foot-2, 300 pounds, Gradkowski is the younger but bigger brother of Bengals quarterback Bruce Gradkowski. He was a two-time All-Colonial Athletic Association selection after transferring from West Virginia.

Gradkowski, who drew heavy interest from the Ravens during the pre-draft process, said he patterns his game after Matt Birk. There's a chance that Gradkowski could eventually replace Birk, who turns 36 in July.

The Ravens-Steelers rivalry should be interesting for Gradkowski, who is a Pittsburgh native.

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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.

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

None of the Steelers' free agents have signed elsewhere, but starting cornerback William Gay has suddenly become popular.

Gay, who started 15 games last season for Pittsburgh, visited the Cardinals on Monday and is scheduled to meet with the Titans on Tuesday. This comes a few days after Gay said he wanted to stay with the Steelers and the team had expressed interest in retaining him.

It was only last year when Gay was an unrestricted free agent during a lockout-shortened offseason and drew little interest. Gay eventually signed a one-year deal with Pittsburgh before training camp.

Hensley's slant: The Steelers don't seem too concerned about losing Gay, one of the bigger surprises for last year's top-ranked pass defense. Pittsburgh, which also cut Bryant McFadden, apparently will rely on Ike Taylor, along with younger players like restricted free agent Keenan Lewis and two players who were rookies a year ago, Curtis Brown and Cortez Allen.

BENGALS: Reggie Nelson, who signed his four-year deal Monday, explained why he chose the Bengals over the New York Jets. "Both Marvin [Lewis] and [Jets coach) Rex [Ryan] were in Baltimore together and they can both be very persuasive," Nelson told Cincinnati reporters, via the Cincinnati Enquirer. "But in the end, I like what Marvin and Zim [defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer] are doing and what the team has accomplished.” The Bengals hosted four free agents Monday: running back BenJarvus Green-Ellis, tight end Joel Dreessen, defensive end Derrick Harvey and cornerback Terence Newman. Running back Michael Bush will complete his visit Tuesday. Hensley's slant: You can't accuse the Bengals of being cheap this time. Nelson will earn $6.5 million this year (which includes base salary and bonuses), which is more than the franchise tag ($6.2 million) and more than what LaRon Landry received from the Jets (one year for $4 million). Now, Nelson has to keep playing like he did last year and live up to the contract.

BROWNS: Jason Pinkston and Shawn Lauvao will "almost certainly" be the starting guards for a second straight season, according to the Canton Repository. Pinkson was a rookie fifth-round pick a year ago, and Lauvao was drafted in the third round in 2010. “Hopefully, those guys improve and play even better than they played last year," general manager Tom Heckert said. Hensley's slant: The right side of the line is a concern with Lauvao and the current hole at right tackle. Lauvao gave up 4.5 sacks and committed eight penalties in his first full season as a starter. It's unknown what the Browns plan to do at tackle after injured Tony Pashos was cut and Artis Hicks signed with Miami. Oniel Cousins isn't the answer there.

RAVENS: Matt Birk, who signed his three-year deal Monday after passing his physical, said the reports of him leaving the game were somewhat exaggerated. He will be entering his 15th season. "I’ll probably always have that desire to play," Birk told the Carroll County (Md.) Times. "Let me just say the reports that I was seriously contemplating retirement, that never came from me. I did say I’d think about it, but that’s just natural. You take a little time to heal up emotionally, physically and mentally and decide if you can do it again. I talked about it with my family and I did some serious thinking. I’m of the mindset that I’m always going to do it until I can't. It’s a process. It takes time. Yeah, I’m back, but I really never left.” Hensley's slant: It's hard to imagine Birk playing all three years of this new deal at the age of 35. But I was wrong before. Count me among the ones who thought Birk was going to retire this offseason. Still, it makes a lot of sense for the Ravens to think about drafting a center this year.

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

Steelers safety Ryan Clark delivered a shot at the Dolphins organization Sunday night after quarterback Matt Flynn became the latest free agent to sign elsewhere.

Responding to a previous tweet that claimed no one wants to sign with the team, Clark posted on Twitter: "No one! To believe I almost went there but it was easy decision not to."

Two years ago, Clark considered playing for the Dolphins and even visited Miami before re-signing with the Steelers. When someone accused Clark of a "low blow" last night, Clark responded again via Twitter: "It's my honest opinion. Not a good guy making decisions."

It would seem that Clark is referring to Dolphins general manager Jeff Ireland.

The subject got started Sunday night when Clark, who went to LSU, congratulated Matt Flynn on his new deal. Flynn signed with the Seattle Seahawks after talking with the Dolphins.

Hensley's slant: While some will just pass this off as Clark being outspoken again, he wouldn't be the first player to criticize Ireland. During this year's Super Bowl, former Dolphins linebacker Channing Crowder insisted he wouldn't play for Ireland again, saying "he's not a good person." Crowder brought up Ireland's pre-draft incident with Dez Bryant where he asked the wide receiver if his mother was a prostitute.

BENGALS: Reggie Nelson agreed to a deal Sunday that is believed to be the biggest for a safety this offseason, according to the Bengals' official website. No details of his contract were provided. Nelson chose the Bengals over the Jets. It's believed both offers exceeded $4 million per season. "I'd be lying if I didn't say it was hard," Nelson told the website. "I had a great visit with the Jets. Yeah, I went back and forth. But my agent [Hadley Engelhard] was able to come to a great agreement with the Browns [family, Bengals owners]. I'm back in orange and black." Hensley's slant: The suddenly busy Bengals will have another important day Monday, when free-agent running backs Michael Bush and BenJarvus Green-Ellis visit. It's believed that Bush is the favorite. Also, Texans tight end Joel Dreessen is visiting the Bengals Monday after meeting with the Saints.

BROWNS: A few days after ending the speculation of Kevin Kolb-to-the Browns, the same can go for Flynn, who signed three-year, $26 million deal (including $10 million guaranteed) with the Seattle Seahawks. It doesn't look like the Browns were interested in Flynn, although earlier reports indicated that the team had exchanged contract offers with him. Hensley's slant: I agreed with the Browns' game plan at quarterback this offseason, when they tried to trade up for Robert Griffin III and didn't pursue Flynn. He might have some good seasons in Seattle, but the Browns need to find themselves a franchise quarterback. But that might not come until next year's draft.

RAVENS: The Baltimore Sun's Mike Preston believes John Harbaugh and the Ravens' coaching staff wanted to re-sign center Matt Birk more than general manager Ozzie Newsome. "For the past two seasons, the Ravens have struggled in short-yardage situations and they haven't gotten much push from Birk, whose best days are behind him," Preston wrote. Preston notes that the Ravens would've cut left tackle Bryant McKinnie if they could have kept Birk and guard Ben Grubbs. Hensley's slant: With the Ravens unable to sign free agent Evan Mathis over the weekend, here's my options on what the team can do at left guard. But adding an offensive lineman isn't the Ravens' only focus. Baltimore brought in wide receiver-returner Ted Ginn Jr. for a visit Friday. He was the Dolphins' first-round pick in 2007, when Cam Cameron was the head coach, and played last season in San Francisco for Jim Harbaugh.

The Ravens announced they reached a three-year deal with center Matt Birk, but this represents short-term security for the position.

Birk, who turns 36 before the season, had contemplated retirement the past two seasons before deciding to return. Still, this is the Ravens' first major free-agent addition and one of the more important ones that they'll make this month.

He is the perfect player and teacher as the Ravens make this transition at center. His solid 2011 season was marred by a disastrous game against New England nose tackle Vince Wilfork in the AFC Championship Game, which wasn't a reflection of his effort all year. According to Pro Football Focus, Birk finished this past season as the sixth-most efficient pass-blocking center, allowing 10 pressures on 584 pass plays (98.6 percent).

One of Birk's best assets is his toughness. Despite injuries to his hip, neck and knee, he has started 96 consecutive games, the NFL’s second-longest active streak among centers. And few can match Birk's character. He was named Walter Payton Man of the Year, the only NFL award that recognizes a player for his community service activities as well as his excellence on the field.

“One of the things we said earlier this offseason is that we were going to focus attention on the offensive line, and getting Matt Birk back is key for us,” general manager Ozzie Newsome said in a statement released by the team. “He is a top player, his intelligence is obvious, and he is a leader on and off the field.”

The Ravens have to look to the future for the center position, and they've been heavily linked to the draft's top-rated center, Wisconsin's Peter Konz.

The re-signing of Birk stops a run of Ravens' free agents leaving the team: guard Ben Grubbs (Saints), linebacker Jarret Johnson (Chargers), defensive end Cory Redding (Colts) and safeties Haruki Nakamura (Panthers) and Tom Zbikowski (Colts).

Free agent officially kicks off at 4 p.m. Tuesday, so let's take a look at the three biggest needs for the Ravens:

1. Interior offensive line: Left guard Ben Grubbs will likely sign elsewhere in free agency, and starting center Matt Birk and backup Andre Gurode are also unrestricted free agents. This is by far the biggest void on the team. The Ravens are expected to bring back Birk and draft their center-in-waiting next month (Wisconsin's Peter Konz is the favorite). But general manager Ozzie Newsome likes to fill major needs before the draft. If Baltimore adds a guard, its track record suggests a veteran one like Steve Hutchinson or Bobbie Williams.

2. Outside linebacker: The Ravens could have trouble re-signing Jarret Johnson, which makes this position a bigger need than many project. Baltimore drafted Sergio Kindle in 2010 to eventually take over for Johnson. But a fractured skull when he fell down two flights of stairs before training camp has made him a non-factor. The Ravens could try to use Paul Kruger at outside linebacker, but he isn't as physical as Johnson in setting the edge against the run. The Bengals' Manny Lawson and the Seahawks' Leroy Hill stand out in a weak free-agent group for outside linebackers.

3. Wide receiver: Baltimore has failed to find a dependable No. 3 wide receiver for Joe Flacco, striking out with T.J. Houshmandzadeh in 2010, and Lee Evans in 2011. The Ravens have ruled out going after a top-tier wide receiver, so that presumably takes them out of the running for Reggie Wayne. But they need to add more punch to a wide receiver group that had two players with more than four receptions last season (Anquan Boldin and Torrey Smith). The Broncos' Eddie Royal would be a solid addition, because he would fill the role as the No. 3 wide receiver and punt returner (the team would probably like to reduce Lardarius Webb's snaps on special teams). Royal's receptions have dropped off heavily since his 91-catch rookie year in 2008, but that happened to be his final season with quarterback Jay Cutler.

ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. offered his third 2012 mock draft, updated over the weekend. You'll need an Insider subscription to view the entire draft, but here's a look at the AFC North part of it:

4. Cleveland Browns

Kiper's first mock draft: Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

Kiper's second mock: Robert Griffin III

Current mock: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State

Hensley's comment: I would take Alabama's Trent Richardson
over Blackmon, even though I don't typically endorse taking a running back this high. Blackmon isn't better than Julio Jones, the wide receiver that the Browns passed on last year. So taking Blackmon, who doesn't have the elite speed that the Browns need, would be a bad move.

17. Cincinnati Bengals

Kiper's first mock draft: Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska

Kiper's second mock: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

Current mock: Dre Kirkpatrick

Hensley's comment: Deciding between Kirkpatrick and Stanford guard David DeCastro would be tough. DeCastro provides a more immediate impact. Kirkpatrick would be groomed to eventually replace veteran Nate Clements.

21. Cincinnati Bengals

Kiper's first mock draft: Lamar Miller, RB, Miami (Fla.)

Kiper's second mock: David DeCastro, G, Stanford

Current mock: Cordy Glenn, G, Georgia

Hensley's comment: Getting DeCastro here would be preferred, but I like taking the next-best guard in Glenn over a running back like Miller. Glenn would be an immediate starter at Cincinnati's weakest position last season.

22. Cleveland Browns

Kiper's first mock draft: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

Kiper's second mock: Kendall Wright

Current mock: Lavonte David, LB, Nebraska

Hensley's comment: Since I don't like the Browns taking Blackmon with the No. 4 pick, I would have them selecting a speedy wide receiver like Baylor's Wright. But drafting the athletic David would solidify an outside linebacker spot as well as boost a struggling run defense.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers

Kiper's first mock draft: Dontari Poe, DT, Memphis

Kiper's second mock: Dontari Poe

Current mock: Dont'a Hightower, LB, Alabama

Hensley's comment: Remember when Poe was supposed to be available here? Now, he's risen to the top 10 in Kiper's latest mock. Grabbing a talent like Hightower would fill the void left by the release of James Farrior.

29. Baltimore Ravens

Kiper's first mock draft: Vontaze Burfict, LB, Arizona State

Kiper's second mock: Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin

Current mock: Peter Konz

Hensley's comment: The Ravens don't start rookies at center, and they won't throw Konz in there at center immediately. Konz is also considered one of the top guards in the draft and could learn for a season beside veteran center Matt Birk, who is expected to be re-signed, before taking over that spot.

Baltimore Ravens

The agent for quarterback Joe Flacco and center Matt Birk is expected to meet with the Ravens next week to discuss a contract.

Former coach Brian Billick says there wasn't a bounty system in place when he was running the team.

Cincinnati Bengals

Safety Reggie Nelson is the lone Bengals representative on Pete Prisco's list of the top NFL free agents.

Leon Hall remains on track to be ready for training camp.

Cleveland Browns

Browns linebacker Scott Fujita has admitted to paying teammates for big plays, but not for injuring an opponent. Fujita: "Over the years I've paid out a lot of money for big plays like interceptions, sacks and special teams tackles inside the 20. But I've never made a payment for intentionally injuring another player."

Browns center Alex Mack is visiting troops this week in the Middle East.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette draws comparisons between Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace and Bills wideout Stevie Johnson. His conclusion: There is no comparison.

It's never a good Sunday when it's Sunday without football games. But it does give us time to open some mail ...

Todd from Vallejo, Calif., writes: My question relates to the Bengals draft picks. By all accounts, the players they want to select (guard David DeCastro, cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick, running back Trent Richardson, etc.) will all be gone by picks 17 and 21. I have a hard time seeing them reach for a running back with those picks or even a lesser guard (like Cordy Glenn) or risky corner (Janoris Jenkins). What do you think they will do? Trade up or down?

Jamison Hensley, from AFC North headquarters, responds: The Bengals are more likely to trade down, especially at No. 21. It seems like every draft there is some team wanting to jump back into the bottom part of the first round to get a quarterback. Since the Bengals have Andy Dalton, they would be happy to drop back and acquire more picks. The only player that I could envision the Bengals trading up for is Alabama running back Trent Richardson. Cincinnati wouldn't mortgage the entire draft for Richardson, but it would be willing to move up a few spots if he surprisingly falls out of the top 10. Of course, I would be extremely surprised to see Richardson slip that far.

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Abe from Baltimore writes: Don't you think the Ravens will be better suited going for Pierre Garcon, Mario Manningham, or Robert Meachem rather than breaking the bank for any of these big-name wide receivers?

Jamison Hensley, from AFC North headquarters, responds: The Ravens don't have the salary-cap room to go after a wide receiver like Vincent Jackson. As I wrote last week, the best fit is the Colts' Reggie Wayne, whose value will be lowered by the number of young deep threats available in free agency. If Wayne proves to be too expensive, the Ravens still need to add a free-agent wide receiver because Lee Evans was a flop and Tandon Doss apparently isn't ready to get on the field. Baltimore only had two wide receivers with more than four catches, so the Ravens have to upgrade here.

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Ben from Pensacola, Fla., writes: Even if Robert Griffin III is every bit as good as Cam Newton, there's no way he'd have that kind of success in Cleveland. Newton was throwing to a pair of good tight ends and Steve Smith, with a nice running back tandem of DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart. RG3 comes into an offense with no running game and, frankly, a terrible group of receivers and tight ends. I understand Colt McCoy probably isn't getting the most out of the players around him, but even Tom Brady would have a hard time scoring points for the Browns. The Browns need a lot more than a new quarterback to be even solid on offense.

Jamison Hensley, from AFC North headquarters, responds: I understand your argument for a lack of playmakers, but you can't downplay the fact that a franchise quarterback elevates the talent around him. That's why Cam Newton had more success with this supporting cast than Jake Delhomme, Jimmy Clausen and Matt Moore. There's no doubt that the Browns have to significantly improve the players at the skill positions. But McCoy isn't a quarterback who gets the most out of his teammates. I'm not saying RG3 will do this. I'm just saying the Browns have to look elsewhere because McCoy isn't the answer.

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Jared from Orlando, Fla., writes: Do you think that Heath Miller will ever get to the Pro Bowl again? Granted the one time he made it, it was because one of the tight ends chosen was in the Super Bowl that year. I'm extremely biased as a Steeler fan who grew up in the same town as Heath. However, it seems like the only tight ends to make the pro bowl are pass catchers. Heath has great hands, but he's at least top three in the league as a blocking tight end. Thoughts?

Jamison Hensley, from AFC North headquarters, responds: Miller has been underused the past two seasons, especially in the red zone. But he won't get to another Pro Bowl because he's on the decline. Over the next couple of drafts, the Steelers have to take a look at adding an athletic pass-catching tight end like Cincinnati's Jermaine Gresham and Baltimore's Ed Dickson. That's the direction the NFL is headed, and Pittsburgh is going to be forced to fill the void there sooner than later. Miller is entering the final year of his contract.

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Cameron from Cincinnati writes: If the Bengals are going to get a guard and a cornerback with their first two picks, which looks likely, what position do they address next? Running back, or wide receiver?

Jamison Hensley, from AFC North headquarters, responds: Running back comes next in the draft, and wide receiver is among the priorities in free agency. The Bengals need to get younger and faster at running back. That means the draft is the best way to address the position. As far as wide receiver, Cincinnati needs a dependable route-runner as the second option to A.J. Green. The Bengals can find one in free agency.

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Gene from San Diego writes: What's more important in the draft for the Ravens: an outside linebacker opposite [Terrell] Suggs, an inside linebacker for the future or a center?

Jamison Hensley, from AFC North headquarters, responds: In order of priority, I would go inside linebacker, center and outside linebacker. It wouldn't be a surprise to see others rank these differently because it's a tough call. I put inside linebacker first because this is the time to find that heir apparent to Ray Lewis, so the rookie can learn under the future Hall of Fame linebacker. The Ravens can get by this year with Matt Birk at center and Paul Kruger at outside linebacker.

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Sean from Van Wert, Ohio, writes: I know that Cleveland needs help at receiver. With all the big names out there, we should worry about overspending. Which is why, I keep bringing up Pierre Garcon. He would be a great fit for Cleveland's West Coast offense, and we could get him for less than DeSean Jackson or any of the other big names wide receivers. I believe we could land Garcon around the $13-15 million range over three to five years. What are your thoughts on Garcon landing in Cleveland?

Jamison Hensley, from AFC North headquarters, responds: I put Garcon on the top of my list in terms of the best fit for Cleveland. The reason? Garcon provides what the Browns desperately need at wide receiver -- speed. He showed he can stretch the field, and he proved that he doesn't need an elite quarterback to do so after Peyton Manning was sidelined all season.

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DJ from Brockport, N.Y., writes: Have the Browns actually shown interest in Robert Griffin III or is it all rumors and assumptions at this point?

Jamison Hensley, from AFC North headquarters, responds: Browns officials met with RG3 for a 15-minute interview on Friday night. But it doesn't take a top analyst like Trent Dilfer to answer this question. The Browns need to upgrade at quarterback, and RG3 will be top quarterback available after Andrew Luck gets drafted by the Colts. Cleveland officials don't have to draft RG3, but they do have to consider it.

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John from Medon, Tenn., writes: With Rashard Mendenhall's injury, could you see the Steelers potentially having an interest in Peyton Hillis? I know they don't spend much in free agency, but Hillis could possibly be had at a decent price after a bad year. Hillis' hit-the-hole-hard style would actually be a better fit than Mendenhall's constant hesitation at the line of scrimmage. Hillis in a Steeler uniform would be very intriguing.

Jamison Hensley, from AFC North headquarters, responds: The Steelers aren't going to make many free-agent signings because of their limited cap space. So it would surprise me if they chose to use that precious cap room on a player who struggled on the field for most of the season, got hurt and became a malcontent in the locker room. I believe the Steelers need to address running back in free agency, but it would be out of character for Pittsburgh to pursue Hillis.

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Michael from Cleveland writes: How crazy is it to think the Colts will draft Robert Griffin III and the Browns move up to draft Andrew Luck?

Jamison Hensley, from AFC North headquarters, responds: This is beyond crazy. Actually, this is the very definition of fantasy football for Browns fans.

Six-time Pro Bowl center Matt Birk has decided to play this season after contemplating retirement, Birk's agent told the Carroll County Times (Md.) on Saturday.

"Matt feels great," agent Joe Linta said. "The Ravens want him back. We're going to try to work something out with the Ravens before free agency."

While Linta is confident about Birk's return to Baltimore, Ravens officials are sending mixed signals about the unrestricted free agent. Ravens coach John Harbaugh made it clear Friday when he told reporters at the NFL combine: "We want him back.” But general manager Ozzie Newsome said on the same day that Birk’s return is “up for discussion."

Birk's first choice is returning to the Ravens, and Baltimore needs him back at center for one more season. The Ravens need to find their center of the future in this draft (perhaps Wisconsin's Peter Konz, the top center in this draft class) even if Birk is re-signed. Teams are typically not comfortable starting a rookie at center because he is the quarterback of the offensive line; the Ravens have never started a first-year player at center for a full season.

Birk would be the perfect player and teacher as the Ravens make this transition at center. His solid 2011 season was marred by a disastrous game against New England nose tackle Vince Wilfork, which wasn't a reflection of his effort all year. According to Pro Football Focus, Birk finished this past season as the sixth-most efficient pass-blocking center, allowing 10 pressures on 584 pass plays (98.6 percent).

One of Birk's best assets is his toughness. He has started 96 consecutive games, the NFL’s second-longest active streak among centers. And few can match Birk's character. He was named Walter Payton Man of the Year, the only NFL award that recognizes a player for his community service activities as well as his excellence on the field.

As the NFL combine kicks into gear today, here are the hot draft topics involving the AFC North teams:

Will Robert Griffin III fit into the Browns' system? The Browns say they're still evaluating the Heisman Trophy winner, and they'll ultimately have to determine whether he's worth trading up from the No. 4 overall pick. RG3 plans to run the 40-yard dash (he's targeting sub-4.4 seconds) but he probably won't throw until his pro day on March 21. The biggest question that the Browns have to answer is whether RG3 can convert from the spread offense that he ran at Baylor. That will come during the interview process when Cleveland officials will go through their offense and pick his brain. ESPN's Todd McShay said he would "be surprised if he doesn't floor teams with his intelligence and understanding of the game."

Sticking to standard line: The Steelers have used their first-round pick on strengthening the offensive or defensive line for the past three years. The trend has a strong chance of continuing this year, and it's not out of habit. The Steelers need to find a potential replacement for nose tackle Casey Hampton, who is coming off ACL surgery and has a high cap number. The best fit is Memphis' Dontari Poe, a 350-pound powerhouse. There's a chance he could challenge the combine record of 49 reps in the bench press. The Steelers might have to consider moving up from No. 24 if Poe has a strong showing.

Tracking the running backs: The Browns and Bengals each have two first-round picks, and they both could use one on a running back. The Bengals aren't expected to re-sign Cedric Benson, and the Browns could do the same with Peyton Hillis. There won't be any on-field evaluation of Alabama's Trent Richardson, the No. 1 running back in the draft who won't participate in drills after having minor knee surgery. This shouldn't hurt his draft status because Richardson's size, speed and power make him a legitimate top-10 pick. Miami's Lamar Miller, who has been linked to the Bengals' second first-round pick, is looking to solidify his standing as the second-best back in the draft by showcasing his speed. He could record the fastest time of any player in the 40-yard dash.

Center of attention: Not many centers get selected in the first round, and the Ravens have never taken one that high. That could change this year because starter Matt Birk isn't expected to return (even if he decides not to retire) and backup Andre Gurode is an unrestricted free agent. Wisconsin's Peter Konz is trying to remain the top center in this draft. His biggest hurdle is the medical check. Konz was diagnosed with blood clots in his lungs in 2009 and then missed three games in 2011 with a dislocated left ankle (he did return to start the Rose Bowl). Baltimore has taken players off their board in the past (like tight end Rob Gronkowski last year) because of medical concerns.

Sorting through the secondary: The Bengals are in need of a young cornerback and could take one in the first round. Leon Hall's status is unknown after suffering a season-ending Achilles injury. Nate Clements is entering his 12th season. Plus, top backups Adam Jones and Kelly Jennings are unrestricted free agents. Cincinnati has no shot at the top cornerback in the draft, LSU's Morris Claiborne, who should go in the top five. The Bengals have to figure out who is the second-best corner: Alabama's Dre Kirkpatrick or North Alabama's Janoris Jenkins.

Disappointing double move: One potential target for the Browns' fourth overall pick is Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon. Cleveland is in desperate need of a playmaker for an offense that ranked 30th in scoring. Blackmon is considered the top wide receiver in the draft because of his hands and body control. But, if the Browns are going to invest this high of a pick, they have to gauge whether he has the speed to get open. It looks like the Browns will have to wait until Blackmon's March 9 pro day before they can time him. ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter reports "it doesn't look like" Blackmon will run with the rest of the receivers on Sunday.

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

It's been two weeks since Todd Haley was named the Steelers offensive coordinator, and he still hasn't spoken with quarterback Ben Roethlisberger.

"He still hasn't called yet," Roethlisberger told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review yesterday. According to the paper, Roethlisberger "had the tone that he has no intention of making the first move."

Roethlisberger acknowledged last week that he's been talking to people around the league about Haley and the response has been "good, bad and indifferent."

"I've heard a lot of things and I'm looking forward to meeting him and forming my own opinion," Roethlisberger said last week.

Hensley's slant: In taking a big-picture approach, the fact that a quarterback and offensive coordinator didn't speak in February will not affect what happens in the season opener in September. What is newsworthy about this is Roethlisberger has made it public that he is eager to talk to Haley and the offensive coordinator hasn't responded with a phone call. Haley has never been known as a player-friendly coach, and this drama hasn't done much to change that perception.

BENGALS: Offensive coordinator Jay Gruden plans to open up the offense because he believes his young players are ready to handle more of the West Coast playbook. Gruden laid out the biggest challenge to quarterback Andy Dalton. "He better get better or he won't be good enough," Gruden told the team's website. "You have to be great at that position and we think he can be great. That's why we drafted him where we did and he had a remarkable rookie season, no doubt about it. Knowing the kind of kid he is and how he works, I know he'll get better. That's why I like our offense. All our guys are like that."

Hensley's slant: The Bengals are the ones who can make it much easier for Dalton to "get better" if they spend some of that $60 million salary-cap surplus. Cincinnati needs to upgrade at running back, wide receiver and both guard positions. If the Bengals want Dalton to improve, they have to improve the supporting cast around him.

BROWNS: Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III, a potential first-round target of the Cleveland Browns, said he is looking forward to talking to team executives from around the league at this week's NFL combine. "I’m excited to wow them in the interviews with the type of offense that we run, just so they can understand it’s not as simple as some people make our spread out to be. It’s a different kind of spread,” Griffin told The Associated Press. “Although I don’t agree with it, but people say I just burst on the scene this year, so no one knows much about me, whether NFL GMs or analysts, so I get a chance to put my best foot forward.”

Hensley's slant: RG3 should be excited to talk to team officials because this is where he has the advantage over Andrew Luck. While Luck has the statistics and accuracy, RG3 has the edge in charisma. It's that personality that could solidify him as the second most-wanted player in this draft.

RAVENS: Even if Matt Birk decides not to retire, there's no guarantee that the Ravens will bring back the six-time Pro Bowl center, according to the Baltimore Sun. The paper cited general manager Ozzie Newsome's comment at the State of the Ravens address that the team will add another center to the roster for next season, which "reinforces" the idea that team officials would like to get a little younger and more physical on the offensive line.

Hensley's slant: There are plenty of quality free-agent centers available -- San Diego's Nick Hardwick, Houston’s Chris Myers and Green Bay’s Scott Wells. But it will cost to sign one of them, and it is probably more than what the Ravens are willing to spend at that spot right now. I see the Ravens drafting a center and using Andre Gurode as a veteran stopgap.