AFC South: Arian Foster
» AFC Scenarios: East | West | North | South
Yes, the start of training camps is two months away, but it’s never too early to consider the coming season. A look at the best-case and worst-case scenarios for the Texans in 2012.
Dream scenario (12-4): Quarterback Matt Schaub and receiver Andre Johnson return from injuries and have exemplary seasons, providing big plays that sync up beautifully with another excellent campaign by running back Arian Foster. New starters at right guard and right tackle take over and play well, and the offensive line continues to be a team strength, providing time for Schaub and room for Foster. They show it’s about the scheme and players with the traits that fit it, not necessarily about the specific people in the lineup.
In conjunction with the excellent offense, Wade Phillips’ 3-4 defense picks up where it left off, swarming opposing quarterbacks and finding big plays that tamp down offenses just about every week.
This talented, deep squad does not get caught up in success and shows it can stand toe-to-toe with teams like the Packers and Patriots. In so doing, the Texans give Houston something it has never had before: a Super Bowl team.
Nightmare scenario (7-9): Schaub either can’t stay healthy or can’t return to form and he or T.J. Yates winds up throwing more to rookie receivers who struggle than to Johnson, who battles another round of leg injuries. The right side of the offensive line proves a huge issue as the team loses any hint of the cohesion that was such a key in 2011. That means trouble for Foster as well, and he doesn’t break through to the second level nearly as often as we’ve become accustomed to.
Defensively, the Texans can’t generate the kind of consistent pass rush they mounted last season as offenses do a better job countering than they did in Phillips’ first season heading up the 3-4. The secondary is asked to hold up too long and an injury to Johnathan Joseph leaves them susceptible at cornerback, the one spot that they lack depth. Opposing quarterbacks find too many big plays against them.
The return games are worse, not better, with Jacoby Jones now playing in Baltimore.
A nearly unanimous pick to win the AFC South before the season, the Texans fail to make the playoffs.
Yes, the start of training camps is two months away, but it’s never too early to consider the coming season. A look at the best-case and worst-case scenarios for the Texans in 2012.
Dream scenario (12-4): Quarterback Matt Schaub and receiver Andre Johnson return from injuries and have exemplary seasons, providing big plays that sync up beautifully with another excellent campaign by running back Arian Foster. New starters at right guard and right tackle take over and play well, and the offensive line continues to be a team strength, providing time for Schaub and room for Foster. They show it’s about the scheme and players with the traits that fit it, not necessarily about the specific people in the lineup.
In conjunction with the excellent offense, Wade Phillips’ 3-4 defense picks up where it left off, swarming opposing quarterbacks and finding big plays that tamp down offenses just about every week.
This talented, deep squad does not get caught up in success and shows it can stand toe-to-toe with teams like the Packers and Patriots. In so doing, the Texans give Houston something it has never had before: a Super Bowl team.
Nightmare scenario (7-9): Schaub either can’t stay healthy or can’t return to form and he or T.J. Yates winds up throwing more to rookie receivers who struggle than to Johnson, who battles another round of leg injuries. The right side of the offensive line proves a huge issue as the team loses any hint of the cohesion that was such a key in 2011. That means trouble for Foster as well, and he doesn’t break through to the second level nearly as often as we’ve become accustomed to.
Defensively, the Texans can’t generate the kind of consistent pass rush they mounted last season as offenses do a better job countering than they did in Phillips’ first season heading up the 3-4. The secondary is asked to hold up too long and an injury to Johnathan Joseph leaves them susceptible at cornerback, the one spot that they lack depth. Opposing quarterbacks find too many big plays against them.
The return games are worse, not better, with Jacoby Jones now playing in Baltimore.
A nearly unanimous pick to win the AFC South before the season, the Texans fail to make the playoffs.
First off, here is my unsolicited idea on the NFL’s desire to provide reliable Wi-Fi for fans at all NFL stadiums: Turn goal posts and pylons into antennas.
Moving along and reading the coverage ...
Houston Texans
Punter Brett Hartmann now has league permission to take Ritalin, says Mark Berman of Fox Houston. His suspension was reduced from four games to three. I’m curious about why this case warranted a reduction, when suspensions related to violations of the league’s policies on such matters are usually cut and dried.
Rookie offensive lineman Brandon Brooks is the heaviest Texans player ever, says Dale Robertson of the Houston Chronicle. They’re asking him to drop 15 of his 346 pounds, and heat he’s not used to may help.
Linebackers coach Reggie Herring says the Texans gained back what they lost with the trade of DeMeco Ryans by adding Bradie James, according to Gregg Rosenthal.
Arian Foster says he can get better at everything and knows things are different for the Texans now that they’ve had success, says Robertson.
Indianapolis Colts
Tight end Dallas Clark signed with Tampa Bay after the Bucs got rid of Kellen Winslow.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Aaron Kampman and Rashean Mathis are enduring solitary roads to recovery from knee injuries, says Tania Ganguli of the Florida Times-Union.
Montell Owens isn’t against the idea of leg pads, says Ganguli.
Martellus Bennett thinks Laurent Robinson proved himself as a No. 1 receiver last year in Dallas, says Ganguli.
Tennessee Titans
The Titans have signed all of their draft picks except for first-rounder Kendall Wright, says John Glennon of The Tennessean.
Moving along and reading the coverage ...
Houston Texans
Punter Brett Hartmann now has league permission to take Ritalin, says Mark Berman of Fox Houston. His suspension was reduced from four games to three. I’m curious about why this case warranted a reduction, when suspensions related to violations of the league’s policies on such matters are usually cut and dried.
Rookie offensive lineman Brandon Brooks is the heaviest Texans player ever, says Dale Robertson of the Houston Chronicle. They’re asking him to drop 15 of his 346 pounds, and heat he’s not used to may help.
Linebackers coach Reggie Herring says the Texans gained back what they lost with the trade of DeMeco Ryans by adding Bradie James, according to Gregg Rosenthal.
Arian Foster says he can get better at everything and knows things are different for the Texans now that they’ve had success, says Robertson.
Indianapolis Colts
Tight end Dallas Clark signed with Tampa Bay after the Bucs got rid of Kellen Winslow.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Aaron Kampman and Rashean Mathis are enduring solitary roads to recovery from knee injuries, says Tania Ganguli of the Florida Times-Union.
Montell Owens isn’t against the idea of leg pads, says Ganguli.
Martellus Bennett thinks Laurent Robinson proved himself as a No. 1 receiver last year in Dallas, says Ganguli.
Tennessee Titans
The Titans have signed all of their draft picks except for first-rounder Kendall Wright, says John Glennon of The Tennessean.
It’s very likely that after the second round is over Friday night, we’ll say the same thing about three teams in the AFC South: That they’ve added a receiver and a pass-rusher.
Jacksonville grabbed Justin Blackmon and with the sixth pick tonight, 38th overall, it will eye a pass-rusher.
Tennessee pounced on Kendall Wright and with the 20th pick tonight, 52nd overall, it will eye a pass-rusher.
Houston snatched Whitney Mercilus and with the 26th pick tonight, 58th overall, it will eye a receiver.
Even if things don’t unfold that way, all three of the teams will wind up addressing both receiver and pass-rusher in this draft. The Colts, too, will add in both areas.
Sensing a theme?
Three of these four franchises are run-based teams. Maurice Jones-Drew, Arian Foster and Chris Johnson are top-flight backs, though Johnson has some bouncing back to do. Chuck Pagano is talking of the need for Indianapolis to run effectively, too.
But run-based is going the way of the dodo bird. No matter you’re pre-draft roster, no matter the philosophy in your DNA, no matter the path that’s given you some success, you must acknowledge it’s a passing league.
Eli Manning, Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady and Drew Brees are taking their teams deep into the playoffs and winning Super Bowls by throwing it, not by handing it off. Even if your quarterback is not of that stature, you need to mirror that approach.
You need the guy to throw it, and all the teams of the AFC South now feel they have that guy.
You need guys for him to throw it to. Enter Blackmon and Wright and maybe tight end Coby Fleener for the Colts with the second pick of the second round tonight.
You need guys to harass the guy throwing it for the other team. Enter Mercilus and another influx of rushers I expect tonight.
It’s more than a coincidence that the road into the AFC South is bringing in receivers and rushers.
Jacksonville grabbed Justin Blackmon and with the sixth pick tonight, 38th overall, it will eye a pass-rusher.
Tennessee pounced on Kendall Wright and with the 20th pick tonight, 52nd overall, it will eye a pass-rusher.
Houston snatched Whitney Mercilus and with the 26th pick tonight, 58th overall, it will eye a receiver.
Even if things don’t unfold that way, all three of the teams will wind up addressing both receiver and pass-rusher in this draft. The Colts, too, will add in both areas.
Sensing a theme?
Three of these four franchises are run-based teams. Maurice Jones-Drew, Arian Foster and Chris Johnson are top-flight backs, though Johnson has some bouncing back to do. Chuck Pagano is talking of the need for Indianapolis to run effectively, too.
But run-based is going the way of the dodo bird. No matter you’re pre-draft roster, no matter the philosophy in your DNA, no matter the path that’s given you some success, you must acknowledge it’s a passing league.
Eli Manning, Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady and Drew Brees are taking their teams deep into the playoffs and winning Super Bowls by throwing it, not by handing it off. Even if your quarterback is not of that stature, you need to mirror that approach.
You need the guy to throw it, and all the teams of the AFC South now feel they have that guy.
You need guys for him to throw it to. Enter Blackmon and Wright and maybe tight end Coby Fleener for the Colts with the second pick of the second round tonight.
You need guys to harass the guy throwing it for the other team. Enter Mercilus and another influx of rushers I expect tonight.
It’s more than a coincidence that the road into the AFC South is bringing in receivers and rushers.
Without Andre Johnson for a good share of the season, the Texans' receivers were exposed in 2011.
While Arian Foster and other non-receivers may have been making plays, the Texans were one of just two teams in the NFL that didn’t have any 30-yard receptions from their receivers on throws that traveled fewer than 15 yards, according to ESPN Stats and Information.
On average, Houston receivers got 3.1 yards after the catch. That ranked 31st in the NFL. But that was offset in a big way by four non-wide receiver pass-catchers.
Foster averaged a league-best 12.0 per catch among players with at least 50 catches. Owen Daniels (5.6), Joel Dreessen (5.5) and Ben Tate (6.2) also did solid work after the catch.
Largely because of those four, the Texans ranked second overall in average YAC per reception, with 6.3 yards. New England was first at 6.5.
A healthy Johnson will help boost the receiver numbers in a big way.
The team’s next two best wideouts are Kevin Walter and Jacoby Jones.
Walter (3.5) is not a big YAC guy; he’s a reliable guy who will be in the right spot and do the right things. Jones (4.8) is explosive and should do quite a bit more in this department.
Whether the Texans add a receiver in the first round or wait until later, the guy who’s added to the group needs to be able to take passes from Matt Schaub and get some additional yards.
While Arian Foster and other non-receivers may have been making plays, the Texans were one of just two teams in the NFL that didn’t have any 30-yard receptions from their receivers on throws that traveled fewer than 15 yards, according to ESPN Stats and Information.
Foster averaged a league-best 12.0 per catch among players with at least 50 catches. Owen Daniels (5.6), Joel Dreessen (5.5) and Ben Tate (6.2) also did solid work after the catch.
Largely because of those four, the Texans ranked second overall in average YAC per reception, with 6.3 yards. New England was first at 6.5.
A healthy Johnson will help boost the receiver numbers in a big way.
The team’s next two best wideouts are Kevin Walter and Jacoby Jones.
Walter (3.5) is not a big YAC guy; he’s a reliable guy who will be in the right spot and do the right things. Jones (4.8) is explosive and should do quite a bit more in this department.
Whether the Texans add a receiver in the first round or wait until later, the guy who’s added to the group needs to be able to take passes from Matt Schaub and get some additional yards.
Mailbag: On the Jaguars' failure to flash
April, 15, 2012
Apr 15
9:37
AM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Darrick Seymore from Jacksonville, Fla., writes: The way our new owner, Mr. Khan, rolled into Jacksonville, I was expecting some really flashing things to be happening by now. Not sure if this is the quiet before the storm or something else. What's your take in the apparent lack of activity here in J-Ville?
Paul Kuharsky: Shad Khan is not about flashing things, so far, and that’s fine. Certainly he’s got a general manager and a coach who are not flashy.
Teams who are about flashing, or flashy things, generally don’t fare well. Who’s the last team that won the offseason and the Super Bowl? (That said, Khan could have tempered the big talk about being "all in." It made agents expect that GM Gene Smith was going to be out there with rolls of money, shopping.)
The Jaguars could have done better in free agency, but they retained their key people, added a receiver they like in Laurent Robinson, got a backup/alternative quarterback in Chad Henne and hope for a big draft.
I don’t know what storm you can still anticipate this long after the top free agents are gone.
Graham from Montreal writes: With Koppen re-signing with the Patriots, what's the Titans' potential opportunities to improve at center in free agency? Is it more likely that we'll see a middle-round pick being used to try to develop a center and maybe also to be used as a long-snapper?
Paul Kuharsky: There was never any evidence the Titans had any interest in Dan Koppen after they lost out on Chris Myers, Scott Wells and even Jeff Saturday.
I think your scenario is the likely one now. It’s quite possible the Titans will go forward with Eugene Amano still in place, or with a rookie or Fernando Velasco; Kevin Matthews could even fight his way into the lineup.
Jonathan from Fort Wayne, Ind., writes: Find it interesting you question why Irsay would want to be coy with the Luck pick. While I agree it's obvious based on what I've read/heard that the Colts will select Luck, Irsay not sharing has incentive - it keeps the Colts in the spotlight for a little bit longer. After the draft, the Colts will quickly fall from a team that garnered a ton of press the past few years to another struggling team with a promising future. For the first game or two the Colts will once again be thrust in the spotlight as people judge Luck. So, the team needs as much press as possible right now. I think it is mostly a PR move to keep analysts (even if they are 99.99% sure) to at least discuss the decision and the team. Even more so now with the CBA because the team won't need extra time to negotiate the contract. After this draft the Colts won't be talked about very much for awhile based on a roster that should struggle, even with a possible once-in-a-generation quarterback.
Paul Kuharsky: As I’ve written, the team isn’t obligated to reveal anything and can milk it if it likes.
The Colts aren't getting any huge public-relations advantage leading up to the draft that they wouldn’t be getting if the verdict was made public early that they are taking Andrew Luck. When Bill Polian is out there saying it's who team owner Jim Irsay wants, Irsay being coy doesn't really work.
Either way, I would have written this piece that was published Friday, for example. They didn't gain anything from mystery there. And there really is no mystery.
April 26 -- the first day of the NFL draft -- is going to wind up being more about who goes third and what happens with Ryan Tannehill than it will be about Luck or Robert Griffin III, because there is no mystery about them.
Interest in Luck will last all season, no matter how bad the Colts are.
Matt from Berkeley, Calif., writes: What do you think of Jags fullback Greg Jones? He's been a low-profile player at a low-profile position, but I've only ever read positive things about him - especially from opposing defensive coordinators. Today, I realized he'll be remembered (if people really remember fullbacks) for blocking for both Fred Taylor and MJD. Taylor arguably had a HoF career - at least by the numbers, and MJD is on pace to make an argument as well. What other positions in football have silent contributors stalwartly working to help their team week after week? We as fans often miss such players between the highlights.
Paul Kuharsky: He’s a good player, but Jack Del Rio’s love of him was overboard and he’s been dinged a lot in his career.
The difference between an average fullback and a really good fullback – which Jones is usually rated as being – is not that extreme or significant to me or to most. While the AFC South is now a division with four fullback teams, I prefer teams that have more versatile tight ends serve as the extra blockers.
I wouldn’t exactly call fullback an under-recognized spot, either. When a back has a big season like Maurice Jones-Drew did, the fullback typically gets his accolades. Vonta Leach certainly reaped huge benefits (in a big free-agent contract from Baltimore) after Arian Foster broke through in Houston.
There are a ton of offensive linemen and interior defensive lineman who do dirty work on all or most of the snaps – as compared to the typical third of the snaps of a fullback – with even less notoriety.
Bobby from Buffalo, N.Y., writes: Just a general NFL question here. If a team with no first-round picks signs a player with a first-round tender such as Mike Wallace, what do they give up or is it even allowed?
Paul Kuharsky: You have to have your original first-round pick to give up. You can’t sign a guy with a first-round tender to an offer sheet unless you have it or make a deal to get it back.
Paul Kuharsky: Shad Khan is not about flashing things, so far, and that’s fine. Certainly he’s got a general manager and a coach who are not flashy.
Teams who are about flashing, or flashy things, generally don’t fare well. Who’s the last team that won the offseason and the Super Bowl? (That said, Khan could have tempered the big talk about being "all in." It made agents expect that GM Gene Smith was going to be out there with rolls of money, shopping.)
The Jaguars could have done better in free agency, but they retained their key people, added a receiver they like in Laurent Robinson, got a backup/alternative quarterback in Chad Henne and hope for a big draft.
I don’t know what storm you can still anticipate this long after the top free agents are gone.
Graham from Montreal writes: With Koppen re-signing with the Patriots, what's the Titans' potential opportunities to improve at center in free agency? Is it more likely that we'll see a middle-round pick being used to try to develop a center and maybe also to be used as a long-snapper?
Paul Kuharsky: There was never any evidence the Titans had any interest in Dan Koppen after they lost out on Chris Myers, Scott Wells and even Jeff Saturday.
I think your scenario is the likely one now. It’s quite possible the Titans will go forward with Eugene Amano still in place, or with a rookie or Fernando Velasco; Kevin Matthews could even fight his way into the lineup.
Jonathan from Fort Wayne, Ind., writes: Find it interesting you question why Irsay would want to be coy with the Luck pick. While I agree it's obvious based on what I've read/heard that the Colts will select Luck, Irsay not sharing has incentive - it keeps the Colts in the spotlight for a little bit longer. After the draft, the Colts will quickly fall from a team that garnered a ton of press the past few years to another struggling team with a promising future. For the first game or two the Colts will once again be thrust in the spotlight as people judge Luck. So, the team needs as much press as possible right now. I think it is mostly a PR move to keep analysts (even if they are 99.99% sure) to at least discuss the decision and the team. Even more so now with the CBA because the team won't need extra time to negotiate the contract. After this draft the Colts won't be talked about very much for awhile based on a roster that should struggle, even with a possible once-in-a-generation quarterback.
Paul Kuharsky: As I’ve written, the team isn’t obligated to reveal anything and can milk it if it likes.
The Colts aren't getting any huge public-relations advantage leading up to the draft that they wouldn’t be getting if the verdict was made public early that they are taking Andrew Luck. When Bill Polian is out there saying it's who team owner Jim Irsay wants, Irsay being coy doesn't really work.
Either way, I would have written this piece that was published Friday, for example. They didn't gain anything from mystery there. And there really is no mystery.
April 26 -- the first day of the NFL draft -- is going to wind up being more about who goes third and what happens with Ryan Tannehill than it will be about Luck or Robert Griffin III, because there is no mystery about them.
Interest in Luck will last all season, no matter how bad the Colts are.
Matt from Berkeley, Calif., writes: What do you think of Jags fullback Greg Jones? He's been a low-profile player at a low-profile position, but I've only ever read positive things about him - especially from opposing defensive coordinators. Today, I realized he'll be remembered (if people really remember fullbacks) for blocking for both Fred Taylor and MJD. Taylor arguably had a HoF career - at least by the numbers, and MJD is on pace to make an argument as well. What other positions in football have silent contributors stalwartly working to help their team week after week? We as fans often miss such players between the highlights.
Paul Kuharsky: He’s a good player, but Jack Del Rio’s love of him was overboard and he’s been dinged a lot in his career.
The difference between an average fullback and a really good fullback – which Jones is usually rated as being – is not that extreme or significant to me or to most. While the AFC South is now a division with four fullback teams, I prefer teams that have more versatile tight ends serve as the extra blockers.
I wouldn’t exactly call fullback an under-recognized spot, either. When a back has a big season like Maurice Jones-Drew did, the fullback typically gets his accolades. Vonta Leach certainly reaped huge benefits (in a big free-agent contract from Baltimore) after Arian Foster broke through in Houston.
There are a ton of offensive linemen and interior defensive lineman who do dirty work on all or most of the snaps – as compared to the typical third of the snaps of a fullback – with even less notoriety.
Bobby from Buffalo, N.Y., writes: Just a general NFL question here. If a team with no first-round picks signs a player with a first-round tender such as Mike Wallace, what do they give up or is it even allowed?
Paul Kuharsky: You have to have your original first-round pick to give up. You can’t sign a guy with a first-round tender to an offer sheet unless you have it or make a deal to get it back.
Reading the coverage …
Houston Texans
Examining the replacements for the players who left the Texans, with Lance Zierlein of the Houston Chronicle blogs.
Breaking down the success rate of running back Arian Foster with Nate Dunlevy of Bleacher Report.
Indianapolis Colts
Bob Kravitz of the Indianapolis Star struggles to understand why players are not on board with HGH testing when bigger players are part of what’s causing injuries. “If the players don't respect each other enough to eradicate HGH from the game, why should the NFL worry its head over a culture of violence that permeates the game?”
Jerry Hughes is on the hot seat for the Colts, says Nate Dunlevy of Bleacher Report.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Pro Football Focus breaks down the Jaguars' drafts. Hat tip to Dunlevy.
Tennessee Titans
John Glennon of The Tennessean wonders who will lead the Titans on defense. This is a major question facing Tennessee heading into 2012.
Houston Texans
Examining the replacements for the players who left the Texans, with Lance Zierlein of the Houston Chronicle blogs.
Breaking down the success rate of running back Arian Foster with Nate Dunlevy of Bleacher Report.
Indianapolis Colts
Bob Kravitz of the Indianapolis Star struggles to understand why players are not on board with HGH testing when bigger players are part of what’s causing injuries. “If the players don't respect each other enough to eradicate HGH from the game, why should the NFL worry its head over a culture of violence that permeates the game?”
Jerry Hughes is on the hot seat for the Colts, says Nate Dunlevy of Bleacher Report.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Pro Football Focus breaks down the Jaguars' drafts. Hat tip to Dunlevy.
Tennessee Titans
John Glennon of The Tennessean wonders who will lead the Titans on defense. This is a major question facing Tennessee heading into 2012.
AFC South links: 'Building The Monster'
April, 5, 2012
Apr 5
8:51
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Houston Texans
Arian Foster won't be on the cover of "Madden NFL 13." But that's a good thing, right, Texans fans?
The Texans' home preseason slate includes games against the Minnesota Vikings and San Francisco 49ers.
Indianapolis Colts
Bob Kravitz of the Indianapolis Star: "Robert Mathis, the Pro Bowl defensive end-turned-outside linebacker, looked around the reconstituted and redecorated Indianapolis Colts practice-facility locker room Wednesday and shook his head. 'I feel like a freshman,' he said with a smile."
There are a lot of new faces as the Colts begin "Building The Monster."
Jacksonville Jaguars
Terrance Knighton is out to prove that his weight won't be an issue this coming season. “It’s not going to change overnight because I came in in good shape today,” Knighton said on Wednesday. “I want to prove to them this year that I won’t be a problem and go above and beyond their expectations and show that I’m committed to it and it’s an area where I’ve matured and changed.”
The Jaguars will host the defending Super Bowl champion New York Giants to launch their preseason schedule.
Tennessee Titans
Recently signed Leger Douzable says he likes the Titans' history of developing defensive ends.
Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck will face his former team when the Titans open their preseason schedule at Seattle.
Arian Foster won't be on the cover of "Madden NFL 13." But that's a good thing, right, Texans fans?
The Texans' home preseason slate includes games against the Minnesota Vikings and San Francisco 49ers.
Indianapolis Colts
Bob Kravitz of the Indianapolis Star: "Robert Mathis, the Pro Bowl defensive end-turned-outside linebacker, looked around the reconstituted and redecorated Indianapolis Colts practice-facility locker room Wednesday and shook his head. 'I feel like a freshman,' he said with a smile."
There are a lot of new faces as the Colts begin "Building The Monster."
Jacksonville Jaguars
Terrance Knighton is out to prove that his weight won't be an issue this coming season. “It’s not going to change overnight because I came in in good shape today,” Knighton said on Wednesday. “I want to prove to them this year that I won’t be a problem and go above and beyond their expectations and show that I’m committed to it and it’s an area where I’ve matured and changed.”
The Jaguars will host the defending Super Bowl champion New York Giants to launch their preseason schedule.
Tennessee Titans
Recently signed Leger Douzable says he likes the Titans' history of developing defensive ends.
Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck will face his former team when the Titans open their preseason schedule at Seattle.
With free agency slowing down and the draft quickly approaching, Scouts Inc.’s Matt Williamson breaks down the running back situations in the AFC South.
1. Houston Texans: The Texans have the best set of running backs in the NFL in Arian Foster and Ben Tate. Of course, Houston’s scheme and blocking are phenomenal, but these two are outstanding in their own right. Foster in particular would fit any scheme. He has size, excellent vision, patience, explosive traits and can be a physical player with the ability to break off long runs. Foster is also extremely adept in the passing game. He gains separation in his routes, catches the ball cleanly and is also an above-average pass-blocker. Only 25, Foster should have a lot of great production ahead of him. The Texans are banking on it after locking him up with a long-term contract right before free agency began. You could make the argument that Foster is the best running back in football right now, especially when factoring in Adrian Peterson’s injury. Tate averaged a whopping 5.4 yards per carry in his second season. It could be argued that he is the most effective backup running back in the league right now. He is more of a straight-line runner than Foster and doesn’t fit all schemes as well as Foster, but he is perfect for what Houston does with its movement-based zone blocking scheme. Tate is quick to get downhill, decisive and runs with power, yet like Foster, can run away from defenders. Houston is loaded at running back.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars: Maurice Jones-Drew had as good of a season in 2011 as any running back in the NFL -- and every defense Jacksonville faced keyed on stopping him. Averaging 4.7 yards per carry under his circumstances was truly a remarkable performance. Everyone makes note of Jones-Drew’s lack of size when discussing him, but he’s a very powerful runner with exceptional leverage. He might not have quite the same burst and long speed as he once did, but his running skills are as sharp as ever. He has a great history of finding the end zone and is excellent as an outlet receiver. Jones-Drew can also stand up a blitzing linebacker as well as any running back in the league. At just 27, he is on a Hall of Fame career pace. Jones-Drew’s backups are Rashad Jennings and Deji Karim. Jennings missed the entire season, but is a very good running back when right. He runs hard and has light feet for a bigger back. As mentioned above, the circumstances were far from optimal last season, but Karim’s 2.1-yard average was simply abysmal. Karim has the look of a poor man’s Jones-Drew … a very poor man’s.
3. Tennessee Titans: Chris Johnson clearly had an incredibly disappointing 2011 season. He ran with little conviction or competitiveness for much of the season and too often looked to hit the home run instead of grinding out the tough yards. He improved late in the season, though, and there is no question Johnson can remain among the best players at his position. His speed has become legendary. Johnson is also a very good receiver who is lethal in space. I am not suggesting that we will see the back who exceeded 2,000 yards on the ground in 2009, but I am expecting a bounce-back season from Johnson in 2012. The Titans’ run blocking should be better and to me, Johnson is simply a much better player than what he showed on film for much of the season. There are also questions concerning what kind of shape he was in to start 2011. Javon Ringer is Tennessee’s top backup, but Jamie Harper also has ability. Ringer is much more reliable and proven, though. He runs hard with ample degrees of power and acceleration for a backup. Ringer is also an asset as a receiver and continues to improve in this area. Harper has a decent all-around skill set, but his 2.6-yard average last year is inexcusable.
4. Indianapolis Colts: Although Donald Brown has never really lived up to his first-round draft status, he was one of the few bright spots for the Colts last year. His 4.8 yards-per-carry average on the worst team in the league last season does stand out. It was by far Brown’s best season as a pro. As running backs go, I see Brown as a jack-of-all-trades but a master of none in many ways. He doesn’t have a single trait that stands out above all others, but as he showed in 2011, he is quite solid in all areas. Brown also is a decent receiver and a very good pass-blocker. Delone Carter was rather disappointing in all phases of playing the position as a rookie. He is a wide-bodied, shorter back who didn’t show the power you would expect and also wasn’t real light on his feet or agile. I still have hope for Carter, though. As is the case with fellow second-year RB Jamie Harper in Tennessee, a true offseason could do Carter a lot of good. With the gaping holes that Indianapolis has on its roster, running back is not among the top needs. But it is far from a great positional group when comparing it to the rest of the league. Perhaps the Colts will add another runner in the middle rounds of the draft.
Scouts Inc. watches games, breaks down film and studies football from all angles for ESPN.com. Follow Matt Williamson on Twitter @WilliamsonNFL.
1. Houston Texans: The Texans have the best set of running backs in the NFL in Arian Foster and Ben Tate. Of course, Houston’s scheme and blocking are phenomenal, but these two are outstanding in their own right. Foster in particular would fit any scheme. He has size, excellent vision, patience, explosive traits and can be a physical player with the ability to break off long runs. Foster is also extremely adept in the passing game. He gains separation in his routes, catches the ball cleanly and is also an above-average pass-blocker. Only 25, Foster should have a lot of great production ahead of him. The Texans are banking on it after locking him up with a long-term contract right before free agency began. You could make the argument that Foster is the best running back in football right now, especially when factoring in Adrian Peterson’s injury. Tate averaged a whopping 5.4 yards per carry in his second season. It could be argued that he is the most effective backup running back in the league right now. He is more of a straight-line runner than Foster and doesn’t fit all schemes as well as Foster, but he is perfect for what Houston does with its movement-based zone blocking scheme. Tate is quick to get downhill, decisive and runs with power, yet like Foster, can run away from defenders. Houston is loaded at running back.
[+] Enlarge
Kim Klement/US PresswireDespite facing defenses keyed on stopping him, Maurice Jones-Drew rushed for over 1,600 yards last season.
Kim Klement/US PresswireDespite facing defenses keyed on stopping him, Maurice Jones-Drew rushed for over 1,600 yards last season.3. Tennessee Titans: Chris Johnson clearly had an incredibly disappointing 2011 season. He ran with little conviction or competitiveness for much of the season and too often looked to hit the home run instead of grinding out the tough yards. He improved late in the season, though, and there is no question Johnson can remain among the best players at his position. His speed has become legendary. Johnson is also a very good receiver who is lethal in space. I am not suggesting that we will see the back who exceeded 2,000 yards on the ground in 2009, but I am expecting a bounce-back season from Johnson in 2012. The Titans’ run blocking should be better and to me, Johnson is simply a much better player than what he showed on film for much of the season. There are also questions concerning what kind of shape he was in to start 2011. Javon Ringer is Tennessee’s top backup, but Jamie Harper also has ability. Ringer is much more reliable and proven, though. He runs hard with ample degrees of power and acceleration for a backup. Ringer is also an asset as a receiver and continues to improve in this area. Harper has a decent all-around skill set, but his 2.6-yard average last year is inexcusable.
4. Indianapolis Colts: Although Donald Brown has never really lived up to his first-round draft status, he was one of the few bright spots for the Colts last year. His 4.8 yards-per-carry average on the worst team in the league last season does stand out. It was by far Brown’s best season as a pro. As running backs go, I see Brown as a jack-of-all-trades but a master of none in many ways. He doesn’t have a single trait that stands out above all others, but as he showed in 2011, he is quite solid in all areas. Brown also is a decent receiver and a very good pass-blocker. Delone Carter was rather disappointing in all phases of playing the position as a rookie. He is a wide-bodied, shorter back who didn’t show the power you would expect and also wasn’t real light on his feet or agile. I still have hope for Carter, though. As is the case with fellow second-year RB Jamie Harper in Tennessee, a true offseason could do Carter a lot of good. With the gaping holes that Indianapolis has on its roster, running back is not among the top needs. But it is far from a great positional group when comparing it to the rest of the league. Perhaps the Colts will add another runner in the middle rounds of the draft.
Scouts Inc. watches games, breaks down film and studies football from all angles for ESPN.com. Follow Matt Williamson on Twitter @WilliamsonNFL.
AFC South links: Tebow bid OK by Gabbert
April, 4, 2012
Apr 4
10:20
AM ET
By ESPN.com staff | ESPN.com
Houston Texans
Wide receiver Andre Johnson talked to Sirius NFL Radio about the Texans' losses in free agency and how he still isn't over the DeMeco Ryans trade.
Johnson said he never took the Peyton Manning-to-Texans rumors seriously.
Arian Foster is not a fan of the NCAA. In an interview with NFLDraft365, Foster said, “I don’t really like the NCAA. I don’t believe that the system they have in place is fair. College football is a billion dollar business. And they equate the billions of dollars they make to a bachelor’s degree."
Nike unveiled the Texans’ new uniforms Tuesday, but there were no real changes.
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts have signed free-agent tight end Kyle Miller and long-snapper Matt Overton.
Indianapolis may be interested in signing free-agent quarterback Byron Leftwich to teach either Andrew Luck or Robert Griffin III, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
The team had no comment after putting former Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck through a private workout Tuesday in Palo Alto, Calif. Among those on hand were general manager Ryan Grigson, coach Chuck Pagano, offensive coordinator Bruce Arians and quarterbacks coach Clyde Christensen, reports Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star.
Former Colts offensive coordinator Tom Moore, in an interview with NBC, said Luck was the closest thing he's seen to a second coming of Manning.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars say a new coaching staff and new facilities have changed the atmosphere.
Tyson Alualu is off crutches following offseason surgery to clean out his knee, reports Tania Ganguli of the Florida Times-Union. "I’m just excited and looking forward to a great season with two healthy knees," Alualu said.
The play of the Jaguars' receivers dropped off last season under former WR coach Johnny Cox, but wideout Mike Thomas expects better things under new position coach Jerry Sullivan, writes Ganguli.
Blaine Gabbert took a philosophical approach to the team's failed effort to land Tim Tebow. "It was not a worry in the world," Gabbert said. "[The Jaguars] had to do their due diligence evaluating players. It’s the nature of the business. You have to do that in order to build a complete football team.”
Tennessee Titans
Titans GM Ruston Webster says the team is preparing for a second round of free agency, reports The Tennessean's John Glennon. “We’ll keep looking at guys and talking about guys to sign and fill spots for us,” Webster said.
The Titans have signed former Jaguars defensive lineman Leger Douzable.
Tennessee has re-signed Pannel Egboh, a defensive end who has spent his three seasons in the NFL on practice squads, to add depth behind Kamerion Wimbley and Derrick Morgan.
Wide receiver Andre Johnson talked to Sirius NFL Radio about the Texans' losses in free agency and how he still isn't over the DeMeco Ryans trade.
Johnson said he never took the Peyton Manning-to-Texans rumors seriously.
Arian Foster is not a fan of the NCAA. In an interview with NFLDraft365, Foster said, “I don’t really like the NCAA. I don’t believe that the system they have in place is fair. College football is a billion dollar business. And they equate the billions of dollars they make to a bachelor’s degree."
Nike unveiled the Texans’ new uniforms Tuesday, but there were no real changes.
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts have signed free-agent tight end Kyle Miller and long-snapper Matt Overton.
Indianapolis may be interested in signing free-agent quarterback Byron Leftwich to teach either Andrew Luck or Robert Griffin III, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
The team had no comment after putting former Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck through a private workout Tuesday in Palo Alto, Calif. Among those on hand were general manager Ryan Grigson, coach Chuck Pagano, offensive coordinator Bruce Arians and quarterbacks coach Clyde Christensen, reports Mike Chappell of the Indianapolis Star.
Former Colts offensive coordinator Tom Moore, in an interview with NBC, said Luck was the closest thing he's seen to a second coming of Manning.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars say a new coaching staff and new facilities have changed the atmosphere.
Tyson Alualu is off crutches following offseason surgery to clean out his knee, reports Tania Ganguli of the Florida Times-Union. "I’m just excited and looking forward to a great season with two healthy knees," Alualu said.
The play of the Jaguars' receivers dropped off last season under former WR coach Johnny Cox, but wideout Mike Thomas expects better things under new position coach Jerry Sullivan, writes Ganguli.
Blaine Gabbert took a philosophical approach to the team's failed effort to land Tim Tebow. "It was not a worry in the world," Gabbert said. "[The Jaguars] had to do their due diligence evaluating players. It’s the nature of the business. You have to do that in order to build a complete football team.”
Tennessee Titans
Titans GM Ruston Webster says the team is preparing for a second round of free agency, reports The Tennessean's John Glennon. “We’ll keep looking at guys and talking about guys to sign and fill spots for us,” Webster said.
The Titans have signed former Jaguars defensive lineman Leger Douzable.
Tennessee has re-signed Pannel Egboh, a defensive end who has spent his three seasons in the NFL on practice squads, to add depth behind Kamerion Wimbley and Derrick Morgan.
» AFC Assessments: East | West | North | South » NFC: East | West | North | South
Houston Texans
Key additions: None.
Key losses: OLB Mario Williams, RG Mike Brisiel, CB Jason Allen, TE Joel Dreessen, RT Eric Winston (cut), ILB DeMeco Ryans (traded), FB Lawrence Vickers (cut), QB Matt Leinart (cut).
Keepers and finance: Not everyone got away. The Texans managed to keep two very important players. They re-signed running back Arian Foster before he reached restricted free agency. And after he'd explored the market some, they struck a deal with unrestricted-free-agent center Chris Myers, a vital piece to a line that lost the two starters on the right side when Winston was cut and Brisiel bolted to Oakland.
Ryans was not a full-time player in the 3-4 defense, and his price tag was high. While Houston takes a $750,000 hit this season, he’s cleared from the books in the future. That will help the team as it tries to make sure players like outside linebacker Connor Barwin and left tackle Duane Brown don’t get away like Williams did.
What’s next: Depth paid off in a big way in 2011 as the Texans managed to win the division and a playoff game despite major personnel losses. At several spots, like on the offensive line and at corner, the draft will serve to replenish the roster with the same kind of insurance.
But the Texans are not without need.
While they are likely to stick with Jacoby Jones as part of the team and like Kevin Walter, a more reliable and dynamic weapon to go with Andre Johnson at receiver is something they acknowledge wanting. A third outside linebacker can reduce the high-snap strain on Barwin and Brooks Reed. While they hope Rashad Butler will replace Winston and Antoine Caldwell will take Brisiel’s spot, adding a guy who can compete for one or both of those spots would be healthy.
Indianapolis Colts
Key additions: DE Cory Redding, WR Donnie Avery, C Samson Satele, S Tom Zbikowski, G Mike McGlynn, RT Winston Justice (trade), QB Drew Stanton (trade).
Key losses: QB Peyton Manning (cut), WR Pierre Garcon, TE Jacob Tamme, C Jeff Saturday, TE Dallas Clark (cut), LB Gary Brackett (cut), S Melvin Bullitt (cut), RT Ryan Diem (retired), WR Anthony Gonzalez, QB Dan Orlovsky, CB Jacob Lacey (not tendered), QB Curtis Painter (cut), DE Jamaal Anderson, G Mike Pollak.
So much we don’t know: We know background on coach Chuck Pagano and his coordinators and we know what Pagano and general manager Ryan Grigson have said. But there will be a degree of mystery well into the season about what they intend to run and with whom. It’s unlikely to be a sweeping transition to a 3-4 defense, as it takes time to overhaul the personnel. But as they play a hybrid defense and move toward a conversion, they’ll need more than they’ve got -- starting with a nose tackle.
On offense, they’ve said they’ll use a fullback. That’s a major departure from the previous regime. And we don’t know if a Donald Brown-Delone Carter duo at fullback will be sufficient to run behind. They need help virtually everywhere after the cap purge and free-agency turnover. Not everything will get addressed as much as they’d like in their first offseason.
What’s next: I expect more role players like Zbikowski and McGlynn, more castoffs like Justice and Stanton and more guys who are presumed finished by a lot of teams, like Avery.
They are all guys who didn’t cost much but who have upside and can help, at least as role players. And if they don’t pan out, it’s hardly a death blow to Indianapolis' major, long-term plans. Money is limited with big dead-money charges and a $19 million cap hit for defensive end Dwight Freeney the team has indicated it's willing to carry.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Key additions: WR Laurent Robinson, CB Aaron Ross, QB Chad Henne.
Key losses: DT Leger Douzable (did not tender).
Keeping their own: The Jaguars did well to hold on to players who have been valuable to them. The top of that list belongs to safety Dwight Lowery. They traded with the Jets for him before last season, shifted him full time to safety and got good work from him before he was hurt. It was crucial for the team to stay fixed at the position where it was horrific in 2010 before signing Dawan Landry and adding Lowery.
They also re-signed defensive end Jeremy Mincey, a great effort defensive end who was overextended in terms of playing time last year. He’s no sack-master, but he’s going to bust it on every play, break through sometimes and make the opponent work hard to stay in his way. And with the lack of quality defensive ends who hit the market, the Jaguars did well to keep him from jumping to Chicago.
What’s next: Receiver has to be addressed beyond a change in position coach and the addition of Robinson. If it’s not in the first round, it needs to be early. The franchise is trying to maximize Blaine Gabbert’s chances to be a franchise quarterback, and few would be able to establish themselves with the current cast of wideouts.
The Jaguars are a top pass-rushing end away from being a top-flight defense. Can they find him seventh overall in the draft? They could tab someone like South Carolina’s Melvin Ingram, though it’s hard to say he or any rookie would be an immediate solution. Most ends need some time to become impact guys in the league.
The Jaguars could certainly look to add in the secondary free-agent market and when players are set free late in training camp.
Tennessee Titans
Key additions: DE Kamerion Wimbley, RG Steve Hutchinson.
Key losses: CB Cortland Finnegan, DL Jason Jones, WR Donnie Avery.
Sidetracked: Did the Titans miss out on real chances to sign either Scott Wells, who went to St. Louis, or Chris Myers, who stayed in Houston, as their new center because they were focused on chasing quarterback Peyton Manning? Perhaps. But when the owner declares that his executives and coaches need to put the hard sell on an all-time great QB with roots in the team’s state, that’s what you do.
Ideally, the team will still find an alternative to Eugene Amano. If the Titans find a new center to go with Hutchinson, who replaces free agent Jake Scott in the starting lineup, the interior offensive line could see a big improvement. That could have a big bearing on running back Chris Johnson, provided he takes care of his own business.
What’s next: The Titans think Wimbley will excel as a full-time defensive end, but they can’t afford for him to be too full time. He’s a smaller guy who’s played mostly as a 3-4 outside linebacker, and shouldn’t be asked to play every down of every game. That means they still need more help at end, where the only other guys they have right now are Derrick Morgan and Malcolm Sheppard.
Look for them to address depth at corner -- where they feel fine about Jason McCourty and Alterraun Verner as the starters, if that’s how it falls -- as well as at receiver. One wild-card spot could be running back. Are they content with Javon Ringer and Jamie Harper as changeups to Johnson, or would they like to add a big back?
Houston Texans
Key additions: None.
Key losses: OLB Mario Williams, RG Mike Brisiel, CB Jason Allen, TE Joel Dreessen, RT Eric Winston (cut), ILB DeMeco Ryans (traded), FB Lawrence Vickers (cut), QB Matt Leinart (cut).
Keepers and finance: Not everyone got away. The Texans managed to keep two very important players. They re-signed running back Arian Foster before he reached restricted free agency. And after he'd explored the market some, they struck a deal with unrestricted-free-agent center Chris Myers, a vital piece to a line that lost the two starters on the right side when Winston was cut and Brisiel bolted to Oakland.
Ryans was not a full-time player in the 3-4 defense, and his price tag was high. While Houston takes a $750,000 hit this season, he’s cleared from the books in the future. That will help the team as it tries to make sure players like outside linebacker Connor Barwin and left tackle Duane Brown don’t get away like Williams did.
What’s next: Depth paid off in a big way in 2011 as the Texans managed to win the division and a playoff game despite major personnel losses. At several spots, like on the offensive line and at corner, the draft will serve to replenish the roster with the same kind of insurance.
But the Texans are not without need.
While they are likely to stick with Jacoby Jones as part of the team and like Kevin Walter, a more reliable and dynamic weapon to go with Andre Johnson at receiver is something they acknowledge wanting. A third outside linebacker can reduce the high-snap strain on Barwin and Brooks Reed. While they hope Rashad Butler will replace Winston and Antoine Caldwell will take Brisiel’s spot, adding a guy who can compete for one or both of those spots would be healthy.
Indianapolis Colts
Key additions: DE Cory Redding, WR Donnie Avery, C Samson Satele, S Tom Zbikowski, G Mike McGlynn, RT Winston Justice (trade), QB Drew Stanton (trade).
Key losses: QB Peyton Manning (cut), WR Pierre Garcon, TE Jacob Tamme, C Jeff Saturday, TE Dallas Clark (cut), LB Gary Brackett (cut), S Melvin Bullitt (cut), RT Ryan Diem (retired), WR Anthony Gonzalez, QB Dan Orlovsky, CB Jacob Lacey (not tendered), QB Curtis Painter (cut), DE Jamaal Anderson, G Mike Pollak.
So much we don’t know: We know background on coach Chuck Pagano and his coordinators and we know what Pagano and general manager Ryan Grigson have said. But there will be a degree of mystery well into the season about what they intend to run and with whom. It’s unlikely to be a sweeping transition to a 3-4 defense, as it takes time to overhaul the personnel. But as they play a hybrid defense and move toward a conversion, they’ll need more than they’ve got -- starting with a nose tackle.
On offense, they’ve said they’ll use a fullback. That’s a major departure from the previous regime. And we don’t know if a Donald Brown-Delone Carter duo at fullback will be sufficient to run behind. They need help virtually everywhere after the cap purge and free-agency turnover. Not everything will get addressed as much as they’d like in their first offseason.
What’s next: I expect more role players like Zbikowski and McGlynn, more castoffs like Justice and Stanton and more guys who are presumed finished by a lot of teams, like Avery.
They are all guys who didn’t cost much but who have upside and can help, at least as role players. And if they don’t pan out, it’s hardly a death blow to Indianapolis' major, long-term plans. Money is limited with big dead-money charges and a $19 million cap hit for defensive end Dwight Freeney the team has indicated it's willing to carry.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Key additions: WR Laurent Robinson, CB Aaron Ross, QB Chad Henne.
Key losses: DT Leger Douzable (did not tender).
Keeping their own: The Jaguars did well to hold on to players who have been valuable to them. The top of that list belongs to safety Dwight Lowery. They traded with the Jets for him before last season, shifted him full time to safety and got good work from him before he was hurt. It was crucial for the team to stay fixed at the position where it was horrific in 2010 before signing Dawan Landry and adding Lowery.
They also re-signed defensive end Jeremy Mincey, a great effort defensive end who was overextended in terms of playing time last year. He’s no sack-master, but he’s going to bust it on every play, break through sometimes and make the opponent work hard to stay in his way. And with the lack of quality defensive ends who hit the market, the Jaguars did well to keep him from jumping to Chicago.
What’s next: Receiver has to be addressed beyond a change in position coach and the addition of Robinson. If it’s not in the first round, it needs to be early. The franchise is trying to maximize Blaine Gabbert’s chances to be a franchise quarterback, and few would be able to establish themselves with the current cast of wideouts.
The Jaguars are a top pass-rushing end away from being a top-flight defense. Can they find him seventh overall in the draft? They could tab someone like South Carolina’s Melvin Ingram, though it’s hard to say he or any rookie would be an immediate solution. Most ends need some time to become impact guys in the league.
The Jaguars could certainly look to add in the secondary free-agent market and when players are set free late in training camp.
Tennessee Titans
Key additions: DE Kamerion Wimbley, RG Steve Hutchinson.
Key losses: CB Cortland Finnegan, DL Jason Jones, WR Donnie Avery.
Sidetracked: Did the Titans miss out on real chances to sign either Scott Wells, who went to St. Louis, or Chris Myers, who stayed in Houston, as their new center because they were focused on chasing quarterback Peyton Manning? Perhaps. But when the owner declares that his executives and coaches need to put the hard sell on an all-time great QB with roots in the team’s state, that’s what you do.
Ideally, the team will still find an alternative to Eugene Amano. If the Titans find a new center to go with Hutchinson, who replaces free agent Jake Scott in the starting lineup, the interior offensive line could see a big improvement. That could have a big bearing on running back Chris Johnson, provided he takes care of his own business.
What’s next: The Titans think Wimbley will excel as a full-time defensive end, but they can’t afford for him to be too full time. He’s a smaller guy who’s played mostly as a 3-4 outside linebacker, and shouldn’t be asked to play every down of every game. That means they still need more help at end, where the only other guys they have right now are Derrick Morgan and Malcolm Sheppard.
Look for them to address depth at corner -- where they feel fine about Jason McCourty and Alterraun Verner as the starters, if that’s how it falls -- as well as at receiver. One wild-card spot could be running back. Are they content with Javon Ringer and Jamie Harper as changeups to Johnson, or would they like to add a big back?
Reading the coverage ...
All four teams would probably be pleased if the draft went like this mock from Nolan Nawrocki.
Houston Texans
Arian Foster pulled off a stunner in the "Madden" cover contest, beating Tim Tebow, says Nick Mathews of the Houston Chronicle.
Baylor receiver Kendall Wright is the pick for the Texans in the newest mock from Lance Zierlein of the Houston Chronicle.
Eric Winston won’t be buying a suite at Reliant Stadium.
Indianapolis Colts
Year 1 went completely different than left tackle Anthony Castonzo expected, says Phil Richards of the Indianapolis Star.
There are Colts Andrew Luck jerseys out there, but they aren’t legal, says Richards.
Two have been arrested for allegedly swindling Dwight Freeney out of more than $2 million, says Greg Risling of AP.
Jacksonville Jaguars
It doesn’t sound like there is a chance for end Matt Roth to return and Mike Mularkey talked optimistically about Eben Britton’s rehab, says Tania Ganguli of the Florida Times-Union.
Rashean Mathis and Aaron Ross will be competing for a starting spot opposite Derek Cox, says Ganguli.
Tennessee Titans
“A league source tells CSN's Derrick Gunn that Asante Samuel could be traded to the Tennessee Titans for a conditional third-round pick some time in the next few days.” I’m skeptical, but we’ll have to wait and see.
All four teams would probably be pleased if the draft went like this mock from Nolan Nawrocki.
Houston Texans
Arian Foster pulled off a stunner in the "Madden" cover contest, beating Tim Tebow, says Nick Mathews of the Houston Chronicle.
Baylor receiver Kendall Wright is the pick for the Texans in the newest mock from Lance Zierlein of the Houston Chronicle.
Eric Winston won’t be buying a suite at Reliant Stadium.
Indianapolis Colts
Year 1 went completely different than left tackle Anthony Castonzo expected, says Phil Richards of the Indianapolis Star.
There are Colts Andrew Luck jerseys out there, but they aren’t legal, says Richards.
Two have been arrested for allegedly swindling Dwight Freeney out of more than $2 million, says Greg Risling of AP.
Jacksonville Jaguars
It doesn’t sound like there is a chance for end Matt Roth to return and Mike Mularkey talked optimistically about Eben Britton’s rehab, says Tania Ganguli of the Florida Times-Union.
Rashean Mathis and Aaron Ross will be competing for a starting spot opposite Derek Cox, says Ganguli.
Tennessee Titans
“A league source tells CSN's Derrick Gunn that Asante Samuel could be traded to the Tennessee Titans for a conditional third-round pick some time in the next few days.” I’m skeptical, but we’ll have to wait and see.
MJD, Foster advance in Madden contest
March, 28, 2012
Mar 28
12:23
PM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Round two of the tournament that will determine the cover boy for "Madden NFL 2013" is underway.
The AFC South candidates were cut in half in the first round.
Third-seeded Jacksonville running back Maurice Jones-Drew beat 14th-seeded Oakland kicker Sebastian Janikowski and third-seeded Houston running back Arian Foster topped 14th-seeded Jets reserve quarterback Tim Tebow.
But Indianapolis defensive end Dwight Freeney, a ninth seed, lost a close contest to San Diego tight end Antonio Gates. And eighth-seeded Tennessee running back Chris Johnson was beaten by ninth-seeded Seattle running back Marshawn Lynch.
The victories by Foster and Gates were the closest of the first round.
Next up, Foster gets Detroit wide receiver Calvin Johnson and MJD gets San Francisco linebacker Patrick Willis.
You can vote here.
The AFC South candidates were cut in half in the first round.
Third-seeded Jacksonville running back Maurice Jones-Drew beat 14th-seeded Oakland kicker Sebastian Janikowski and third-seeded Houston running back Arian Foster topped 14th-seeded Jets reserve quarterback Tim Tebow.
But Indianapolis defensive end Dwight Freeney, a ninth seed, lost a close contest to San Diego tight end Antonio Gates. And eighth-seeded Tennessee running back Chris Johnson was beaten by ninth-seeded Seattle running back Marshawn Lynch.
The victories by Foster and Gates were the closest of the first round.
Next up, Foster gets Detroit wide receiver Calvin Johnson and MJD gets San Francisco linebacker Patrick Willis.
You can vote here.
Assessing the Texans' free-agent losses
March, 26, 2012
Mar 26
2:04
PM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Gary Kubiak conceded the early stages of free agency were rough on the Houston Texans.
They re-signed running back Arian Foster before he got to restricted free agency, and managed to keep center Chris Myers after he saw some interest from outside.
But gone through free-agent losses, cuts or trades are eight players of note.
Let’s take a look at each departure:
OLB Mario Williams (free agent, signed with Buffalo)
The team knew it was highly unlikely it would be able to keep him, and he got a giant contract from the Bills.
The glass-half-full side points out how well the Texans rushed the passer without Williams in the final 11 games and the playoffs last year and points out that he was always banged-up.
On the other side, Connor Barwin and Brooks Reed need to be part of a three-man gang at the position, and the odds of the pass rush just picking up where it left off aren’t high. Bryan Braman is an interesting player and could be a factor in his second year. Look for another outside backer in the draft.
RT Eric Winston (cut, signed with Kansas City)
A strong and technically sound right tackle who was a big piece of a line that may have been the team’s best unit and ranked among the league’s best last season.
This move was the biggest surprise of all that’s unfolded, and Winston was courted heavily before landing in Kansas City.
The team could go with backup swing tackle Rashad Butler, who missed much of last season with an arm injury. But he didn’t fare great when subbing for left tackle Duane Brown on the left side for four games a year earlier.
ILB DeMeco Ryans (traded to Philadelphia)
A beloved member of the team, Ryans hasn’t returned all the way to form after a serious Achilles injury. Plus, in the 3-4, he was barely a two-down player until Darryl Sharpton got hurt.
The Texans may not have gotten quite enough in the deal and they may have to smooth things out in the locker room, but a healthy Sharpton is a capable second inside guy to go with Brian Cushing.
RT Mike Brisiel (free agent, signed with Oakland)
The team played better with him in the lineup than when he was out and Antoine Caldwell filled in. Brisiel did tend to miss a couple games a year. The spot should be Caldwell’s to lose now and he should still be getting better.
TE Joel Dreessen (free agent, signed with Denver)
He seriously considered Houston’s offer before leaving to play with Peyton Manning. He was a valuable player for the Texans, the kind of smaller piece that glues together a team while being overlooked by many.
James Casey is the lone fullback now, but he’s technically more of an H-back and can do tight end things. Depending on how he’s deployed along with Owen Daniels and Garrett Graham, Houston could be OK.
FB Lawrence Vickers (cut, signed with Dallas)
He only played 31.06 percent of the Texans’ plays. Are they dead set on being a fullback team? Call Casey a fullback if you want, but you can run out of anything with Foster and shouldn’t feel desperate to restock.
CB Jason Allen (free agent, signed with Cincinnati)
An unsung player who the team counted as a co-starter with Kareem Jackson, a first-round draft pick who has not lived up to his draft status. They lost a security blanket with Allen, and need to ensure they have a fallback for Jackson on the team, whether it’s a veteran later, second-year man Brandon Harris or a draft pick.
QB Matt Leinart (cut)
T.J. Yates flew by him on the depth chart with his performance down the stretch, and the Texans couldn’t afford Leinart as a third.
They re-signed running back Arian Foster before he got to restricted free agency, and managed to keep center Chris Myers after he saw some interest from outside.
But gone through free-agent losses, cuts or trades are eight players of note.
Let’s take a look at each departure:
OLB Mario Williams (free agent, signed with Buffalo)
The team knew it was highly unlikely it would be able to keep him, and he got a giant contract from the Bills.
The glass-half-full side points out how well the Texans rushed the passer without Williams in the final 11 games and the playoffs last year and points out that he was always banged-up.
On the other side, Connor Barwin and Brooks Reed need to be part of a three-man gang at the position, and the odds of the pass rush just picking up where it left off aren’t high. Bryan Braman is an interesting player and could be a factor in his second year. Look for another outside backer in the draft.
RT Eric Winston (cut, signed with Kansas City)
A strong and technically sound right tackle who was a big piece of a line that may have been the team’s best unit and ranked among the league’s best last season.
This move was the biggest surprise of all that’s unfolded, and Winston was courted heavily before landing in Kansas City.
The team could go with backup swing tackle Rashad Butler, who missed much of last season with an arm injury. But he didn’t fare great when subbing for left tackle Duane Brown on the left side for four games a year earlier.
ILB DeMeco Ryans (traded to Philadelphia)
A beloved member of the team, Ryans hasn’t returned all the way to form after a serious Achilles injury. Plus, in the 3-4, he was barely a two-down player until Darryl Sharpton got hurt.
The Texans may not have gotten quite enough in the deal and they may have to smooth things out in the locker room, but a healthy Sharpton is a capable second inside guy to go with Brian Cushing.
RT Mike Brisiel (free agent, signed with Oakland)
The team played better with him in the lineup than when he was out and Antoine Caldwell filled in. Brisiel did tend to miss a couple games a year. The spot should be Caldwell’s to lose now and he should still be getting better.
TE Joel Dreessen (free agent, signed with Denver)
He seriously considered Houston’s offer before leaving to play with Peyton Manning. He was a valuable player for the Texans, the kind of smaller piece that glues together a team while being overlooked by many.
James Casey is the lone fullback now, but he’s technically more of an H-back and can do tight end things. Depending on how he’s deployed along with Owen Daniels and Garrett Graham, Houston could be OK.
FB Lawrence Vickers (cut, signed with Dallas)
He only played 31.06 percent of the Texans’ plays. Are they dead set on being a fullback team? Call Casey a fullback if you want, but you can run out of anything with Foster and shouldn’t feel desperate to restock.
CB Jason Allen (free agent, signed with Cincinnati)
An unsung player who the team counted as a co-starter with Kareem Jackson, a first-round draft pick who has not lived up to his draft status. They lost a security blanket with Allen, and need to ensure they have a fallback for Jackson on the team, whether it’s a veteran later, second-year man Brandon Harris or a draft pick.
QB Matt Leinart (cut)
T.J. Yates flew by him on the depth chart with his performance down the stretch, and the Texans couldn’t afford Leinart as a third.
RTC: Luck will inherit more than Peyton did
March, 26, 2012
Mar 26
9:02
AM ET
By
Paul Kuharsky | ESPN.com
Reading the coverage…
Houston Texans
When Arian Foster met with Roger Goodell, this picture was part of the result, says Nick Mathews of the Houston Chronicle.
Nick Scurfield of the Texans' web site reviews Houston’s defensive line.
Indianapolis Colts
Comparing teams just before the rebuild: The 2011 Colts have a lot more chips carrying over than the 1997 Colts did, says Nate Dunlevy of Colts Authority.
The Colts will take Andrew Luck in part because they know he can take a hit and they can’t be scared of letting him do so, says Dunlevy, this time at Bleacher Report.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars have taken care of their own on defense, and that has coordinator Mel Tucker feeling optimistic, says Vito Stellino of the Florida Times-Union.
David Garrard has landed in a good situation, says Stellino.
John Oehser of the team’s website defends the team’s transparency.
Tennessee Titans
Mike Munchak likes what the Titans have done so far in free agency and says the team isn’t finished yet, according to Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean.
The way Matt Hasselbeck reacted to the Peyton Manning chase showed class, says David Climer of The Tennessean.
Houston Texans
When Arian Foster met with Roger Goodell, this picture was part of the result, says Nick Mathews of the Houston Chronicle.
Nick Scurfield of the Texans' web site reviews Houston’s defensive line.
Indianapolis Colts
Comparing teams just before the rebuild: The 2011 Colts have a lot more chips carrying over than the 1997 Colts did, says Nate Dunlevy of Colts Authority.
The Colts will take Andrew Luck in part because they know he can take a hit and they can’t be scared of letting him do so, says Dunlevy, this time at Bleacher Report.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars have taken care of their own on defense, and that has coordinator Mel Tucker feeling optimistic, says Vito Stellino of the Florida Times-Union.
David Garrard has landed in a good situation, says Stellino.
John Oehser of the team’s website defends the team’s transparency.
Tennessee Titans
Mike Munchak likes what the Titans have done so far in free agency and says the team isn’t finished yet, according to Jim Wyatt of The Tennessean.
The way Matt Hasselbeck reacted to the Peyton Manning chase showed class, says David Climer of The Tennessean.
The voting in a tournament-style field to select the next coverboy for Madden is off and running.
First-round voting runs to March 28.
The voting process is largely a popularity contest, but it comes with a twist. Because of the hype with the cover jinx, some fans do their best to make sure their team's candidate is eliminated as soon as possible.
Here are the AFC South candidates:
Texans runing back Arian Foster is a No. 3 seed, but draws a very tough matchup in new Jets quarterback Tim Tebow, a 13 seed.
Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew is a No. 3 seed who drew 13th-seeded Oakland kicker Sebastian Janikowski.
Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney is a ninth seed taking on eighth-seeded San Diego tight end Antonio Gates.
Titans running back Chris Johnson is a ninth seed taking on eighth-seeded Seattle running back Marshawn Lynch.
First-round voting runs to March 28.
The voting process is largely a popularity contest, but it comes with a twist. Because of the hype with the cover jinx, some fans do their best to make sure their team's candidate is eliminated as soon as possible.
Here are the AFC South candidates:
Texans runing back Arian Foster is a No. 3 seed, but draws a very tough matchup in new Jets quarterback Tim Tebow, a 13 seed.
Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew is a No. 3 seed who drew 13th-seeded Oakland kicker Sebastian Janikowski.
Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney is a ninth seed taking on eighth-seeded San Diego tight end Antonio Gates.
Titans running back Chris Johnson is a ninth seed taking on eighth-seeded Seattle running back Marshawn Lynch.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Paul Kuharsky
Kuharsky joined ESPN.com in 2008 after 12 years covering the Oilers/Titans and the NFL for The (Nashville) Tennessean. The New Jersey native and Columbia graduate lives in Nashville with his wife and son.
