NFL Nation: Bryant McKinnie
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» AFC pressure points: West | North | South | East
Examining who faces the most challenging season for the Colts and why.
The Colts are changing in a big way on defense -- they aim to be bigger, more physical and better against the run. Although they talk of being a hybrid, they want to be a base 3-4 front.
To me, the pressure point will be split between two guys: Coach Chuck Pagano, the architect of the scheme, and the guy who will have to answer for its progress. His coordinator, Greg Manusky, will help spread the message, install the system and draw up game plans. The coach and his coordinator share the pressure for a unit that is converting high-quality 4-3 ends Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis into outside linebackers.
The two are excellent rushers, and there is risk in asking them to stand up and change. But they’ll be charging quarterbacks from a variety of spots, and offenses probably prefer to know where exactly they’ll be lining up.
Pagano helped Indianapolis land three players he coached in Baltimore: nose tackle Brandon McKinney, end Cory Redding, and safety Tom Zbikowski. The draft added only fifth-round nose tackle Josh Chapman and and seventh-round end Tim Fugger.
How much of the personnel deficiencies, especially in the secondary, can Pagano and Manusky cover up with scheme?
» AFC pressure points: West | North | South | East
Examining who faces the most challenging season for the Colts and why.
The Colts are changing in a big way on defense -- they aim to be bigger, more physical and better against the run. Although they talk of being a hybrid, they want to be a base 3-4 front.
To me, the pressure point will be split between two guys: Coach Chuck Pagano, the architect of the scheme, and the guy who will have to answer for its progress. His coordinator, Greg Manusky, will help spread the message, install the system and draw up game plans. The coach and his coordinator share the pressure for a unit that is converting high-quality 4-3 ends Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis into outside linebackers.
The two are excellent rushers, and there is risk in asking them to stand up and change. But they’ll be charging quarterbacks from a variety of spots, and offenses probably prefer to know where exactly they’ll be lining up.
Pagano helped Indianapolis land three players he coached in Baltimore: nose tackle Brandon McKinney, end Cory Redding, and safety Tom Zbikowski. The draft added only fifth-round nose tackle Josh Chapman and and seventh-round end Tim Fugger.
How much of the personnel deficiencies, especially in the secondary, can Pagano and Manusky cover up with scheme?
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.
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.
The 2012 ESPN.com blog network mock draft is in the books. It was actually a lot of fun, and I hope you got a chance to jump into the fray for at least a few moments. If not, here is the chat transcript.
I learned a few things. First, I'm much more conservative than I thought I was. I tried to drum up trade interest in the Minnesota Vikings' No. 3 overall pick, but for the most part I was content to let everyone else wheel and deal and then sit tight for targeted players to drop in a way that I thought would only happen in my dreams.
Second, every draft has some unexpected trades and some unconventional picks. Having eight people participate helped lend a sense of that dynamic, even if the trades we made and the picks that resulted don't happen this week. You got a more realistic sense of how it could go, I think, than in a conventional mock draft.
We faced decisions at each stop, which I'll detail below for those interested:
3. Minnesota Vikings
My pick: USC left tackle Matt Kalil
Final decision: Kalil or LSU cornerback Morris Claiborne
Process and reasoning: I felt obligated to solicit trade offers for anyone who might be interested in Texas A&M quarterback Ryan Tannehill. I pressured AFC North blogger Jamison Hensley, who is convinced the Cleveland Browns do not want to trade up from No. 4. I leaned on AFC West blogger Bill Williamson, suggesting Tannehill would be a nice target for the Kansas City Chiefs. "I'm good," Williamson said. And I tried to entice AFC East blogger James Walker, letting him and the Miami Dolphins know I was talking to the Hensley/Browns and Williamson/Chiefs.
Walker sat tight. With my time (almost up), I was left to the decision we've been discussing in recent days. I can't see the Vikings taking Oklahoma State receiver Justin Blackmon, so it was down to Kalil or Claiborne.
In the end, I took Kalil because my top goal in this exercise was to avoid overthinking. Left tackle is one of the most difficult jobs to fill in the NFL. The Vikings don't have a left tackle, not since they released Bryant McKinnie last summer, and their quarterbacks were pummeled in 2011. Kalil is one of the draft's best prospects and certainly the top left tackle available.
It's true that the Vikings are short on cornerbacks as well, but I would feel more comfortable finding a cornerback at the top of the second or third round than a left tackle. Claiborne and Kalil are both excellent prospects. So Kalil it was. We'll soon see if the Vikings agree.
19. Chicago Bears
My pick: Illinois defensive end Whitney Mercilus
Final decision: Mercilus or Syracuse defensive end Chandler Jones
Process and reasoning: If the real thing goes anything like our mock draft, it appears the Bears will have their pick of defensive ends to fill an important but untouched roster hole. I was holding out hope for North Carolina defensive end Quinton Coples, who slipped as far as No. 17 before Hensley grabbed him for the Cincinnati Bengals. But ultimately I was left to choose between Mercilus, Jones, USC's Nick Perry and Alabama's Courtney Upshaw.
Why Mercilus? The Bears have spent a good bit of time visiting and researching Mercilus during the past few months, and while there are questions about the best positions for some of the other defensive end prospects, Mercilus is a clear and obvious 4-3 defensive end. I liked him more than any of the receivers on the board at the time, and I didn't think the Bears would chose an offensive tackle -- even Stanford's Jonathan Martin -- in this spot.
Ultimately, Martin went at No. 22 to the Browns, where he will presumably play right tackle.
23. Detroit Lions
My pick: Alabama cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick
Final decision: Kirkpatrick or trade down
Process and reasoning: Frankly, I was surprised that Kirkpatrick fell that far. I can see a team jumping first for South Carolina's Stephon Gilmore, as Paul Kuharsky did for the Jacksonville Jaguars at No. 15. But having Kirkpatrick available at No. 23 for a team whose secondary collapsed in 2011 was a pretty good situation.
I had previously discussed a trade with Hensley and the Baltimore Ravens at No. 29, something that could arise Thursday night. But I was more than happy to sit with Kirkpatrick at that point.
Why Kirkpatrick over North Alabama's Janoris Jenkins? Frankly, for the obvious and previously-stated conservative reasons. The Lions had three members of their 2011 draft class run into marijuana-related issues. Jenkins has a long history dating back to his removal from the University of Florida team two years ago.
I realize Kirkpatrick was cited in January for marijuana possession, but ultimately he was not prosecuted.
28. Green Bay Packers
My pick: Boise state outside linebacker Shea McClellin
Final decision: McClellin or Alabama linebacker Courtney Upshaw
Process and reasoning: I had targeted McClellin as someone I would hope to draft for the Packers and was caught off guard when Upshaw was still available. I got some tweets and live suggestions for both players, but chose McClellin because I think he's a better fit for the Packers' 3-4 and that he'll be ready to start in Week 1 for a team that is a Super Bowl contender in 2012.
There is enough concern about Upshaw's fit as a 3-4 linebacker, as opposed to a 4-3 defensive end, that I felt more comfortable with McClellin here.
I would be willing to discuss this further in the blog, probably Tuesday. Your thoughts, as always, are welcome.
I learned a few things. First, I'm much more conservative than I thought I was. I tried to drum up trade interest in the Minnesota Vikings' No. 3 overall pick, but for the most part I was content to let everyone else wheel and deal and then sit tight for targeted players to drop in a way that I thought would only happen in my dreams.
Second, every draft has some unexpected trades and some unconventional picks. Having eight people participate helped lend a sense of that dynamic, even if the trades we made and the picks that resulted don't happen this week. You got a more realistic sense of how it could go, I think, than in a conventional mock draft.
We faced decisions at each stop, which I'll detail below for those interested:
3. Minnesota Vikings
My pick: USC left tackle Matt Kalil
Final decision: Kalil or LSU cornerback Morris Claiborne
Process and reasoning: I felt obligated to solicit trade offers for anyone who might be interested in Texas A&M quarterback Ryan Tannehill. I pressured AFC North blogger Jamison Hensley, who is convinced the Cleveland Browns do not want to trade up from No. 4. I leaned on AFC West blogger Bill Williamson, suggesting Tannehill would be a nice target for the Kansas City Chiefs. "I'm good," Williamson said. And I tried to entice AFC East blogger James Walker, letting him and the Miami Dolphins know I was talking to the Hensley/Browns and Williamson/Chiefs.
Walker sat tight. With my time (almost up), I was left to the decision we've been discussing in recent days. I can't see the Vikings taking Oklahoma State receiver Justin Blackmon, so it was down to Kalil or Claiborne.
In the end, I took Kalil because my top goal in this exercise was to avoid overthinking. Left tackle is one of the most difficult jobs to fill in the NFL. The Vikings don't have a left tackle, not since they released Bryant McKinnie last summer, and their quarterbacks were pummeled in 2011. Kalil is one of the draft's best prospects and certainly the top left tackle available.
It's true that the Vikings are short on cornerbacks as well, but I would feel more comfortable finding a cornerback at the top of the second or third round than a left tackle. Claiborne and Kalil are both excellent prospects. So Kalil it was. We'll soon see if the Vikings agree.
19. Chicago Bears
My pick: Illinois defensive end Whitney Mercilus
Final decision: Mercilus or Syracuse defensive end Chandler Jones
Process and reasoning: If the real thing goes anything like our mock draft, it appears the Bears will have their pick of defensive ends to fill an important but untouched roster hole. I was holding out hope for North Carolina defensive end Quinton Coples, who slipped as far as No. 17 before Hensley grabbed him for the Cincinnati Bengals. But ultimately I was left to choose between Mercilus, Jones, USC's Nick Perry and Alabama's Courtney Upshaw.
Why Mercilus? The Bears have spent a good bit of time visiting and researching Mercilus during the past few months, and while there are questions about the best positions for some of the other defensive end prospects, Mercilus is a clear and obvious 4-3 defensive end. I liked him more than any of the receivers on the board at the time, and I didn't think the Bears would chose an offensive tackle -- even Stanford's Jonathan Martin -- in this spot.
Ultimately, Martin went at No. 22 to the Browns, where he will presumably play right tackle.
23. Detroit Lions
My pick: Alabama cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick
Final decision: Kirkpatrick or trade down
Process and reasoning: Frankly, I was surprised that Kirkpatrick fell that far. I can see a team jumping first for South Carolina's Stephon Gilmore, as Paul Kuharsky did for the Jacksonville Jaguars at No. 15. But having Kirkpatrick available at No. 23 for a team whose secondary collapsed in 2011 was a pretty good situation.
I had previously discussed a trade with Hensley and the Baltimore Ravens at No. 29, something that could arise Thursday night. But I was more than happy to sit with Kirkpatrick at that point.
Why Kirkpatrick over North Alabama's Janoris Jenkins? Frankly, for the obvious and previously-stated conservative reasons. The Lions had three members of their 2011 draft class run into marijuana-related issues. Jenkins has a long history dating back to his removal from the University of Florida team two years ago.
I realize Kirkpatrick was cited in January for marijuana possession, but ultimately he was not prosecuted.
28. Green Bay Packers
My pick: Boise state outside linebacker Shea McClellin
Final decision: McClellin or Alabama linebacker Courtney Upshaw
Process and reasoning: I had targeted McClellin as someone I would hope to draft for the Packers and was caught off guard when Upshaw was still available. I got some tweets and live suggestions for both players, but chose McClellin because I think he's a better fit for the Packers' 3-4 and that he'll be ready to start in Week 1 for a team that is a Super Bowl contender in 2012.
There is enough concern about Upshaw's fit as a 3-4 linebacker, as opposed to a 4-3 defensive end, that I felt more comfortable with McClellin here.
I would be willing to discuss this further in the blog, probably Tuesday. Your thoughts, as always, are welcome.
» AFC Assessments: East | West | North | South » NFC: East | West | North | South
Cincinnati Bengals
Key additions: RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis, S Reggie Nelson, G Travelle Wharton, CB Jason Allen, CB Adam Jones, DE Jamaal Anderson, DE Derrick Harvey
Key losses: DE Frostee Rucker (Browns), G Nate Livings (Cowboys), G Mike McGlynn (Colts), DE Jonathan Fanene (Patriots), WR Andre Caldwell (Broncos)
Grade after first wave of free agency: B. The Bengals were the most active team in the division and they should have been. Cincinnati entered free agency with over $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 guard. 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 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 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 only lost 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.
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 over $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 guard. 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 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 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 only lost 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.
Ravens pick up McKinnie's roster bonus
March, 16, 2012
Mar 16
8:00
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Any uncertainty regarding the status of left Bryant McKinnie was removed today when the Baltimore Ravens picked up his $500,000 roster bonus, according to the Baltimore Sun.
There had been speculation that the Ravens were thinking of releasing McKinnie because they have a visit scheduled with Eric Winston, the best right tackle in the free-agent market. Some thought the Ravens would sign Winston, move Michael Oher from right to left tackle and cut McKinnie.
In his first season in Baltimore, McKinnie had his share of ups and downs especially as a run blocker. He's also scheduled to make $3.2 million in 2012. So, it's understandable for the Ravens to consider other options. By picking up the option, it appears that the Ravens are committed to McKinnie for this season.
So, why would the Ravens schedule a meeting with Winston if they aren't parting ways with McKinnie?
I could only come up with two viable reasons:
1. Team officials wanted to send McKinnie a message. The reports of Winston's visit came out the day before McKinnie's meeting with team officials in Baltimore. McKinnie, whose weight has been an issue throughout his career, had a "very positive meeting" and agreed to participate in the team's conditioning program, according to the Carroll County (Md.) Times.
2. There was no scheduled visit with Winston.
I don't buy into an outside-the-box idea of moving either Oher or McKinnie to left guard. The Ravens are trying to sign free agent Evan Mathis for that spot. Winston, meanwhile, is visiting the Kansas City Chiefs and is next headed to the St. Louis Rams.
Usually you can connect the dots as to why teams plan visits with certain players. This one is not as clear cut. If anyone else has a better read on this situation, please let me know.
There had been speculation that the Ravens were thinking of releasing McKinnie because they have a visit scheduled with Eric Winston, the best right tackle in the free-agent market. Some thought the Ravens would sign Winston, move Michael Oher from right to left tackle and cut McKinnie.
In his first season in Baltimore, McKinnie had his share of ups and downs especially as a run blocker. He's also scheduled to make $3.2 million in 2012. So, it's understandable for the Ravens to consider other options. By picking up the option, it appears that the Ravens are committed to McKinnie for this season.
So, why would the Ravens schedule a meeting with Winston if they aren't parting ways with McKinnie?
I could only come up with two viable reasons:
1. Team officials wanted to send McKinnie a message. The reports of Winston's visit came out the day before McKinnie's meeting with team officials in Baltimore. McKinnie, whose weight has been an issue throughout his career, had a "very positive meeting" and agreed to participate in the team's conditioning program, according to the Carroll County (Md.) Times.
2. There was no scheduled visit with Winston.
I don't buy into an outside-the-box idea of moving either Oher or McKinnie to left guard. The Ravens are trying to sign free agent Evan Mathis for that spot. Winston, meanwhile, is visiting the Kansas City Chiefs and is next headed to the St. Louis Rams.
Usually you can connect the dots as to why teams plan visits with certain players. This one is not as clear cut. If anyone else has a better read on this situation, please let me know.
» NFC Wrap-ups: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
Arrow indicates direction team is trending.
Final Power Ranking: 30
Preseason Power Ranking: 20
Biggest surprise: It has never been clear why anyone thought acquiring Donovan McNabb as a stopgap starting quarterback was a good idea. All indications were that McNabb had taken a significant step back since his heyday as an annual Pro Bowler, and in truth, he had no more familiarity with the Vikings' new offense than did rookie quarterback Christian Ponder. He threw for an embarrassing 39 yards in a Week 1 loss at the San Diego Chargers, was benched after six starts and waived with five games remaining. I'm not sure the Vikings would have won more games with Ponder or Joe Webb as their Week 1 starter, but the entire episode was a failure waiting to happen. Why wasn't that obvious to everyone?
Biggest disappointment: Tailback Adrian Peterson's shredded left knee will cast a shadow over the organization for months. The Vikings have said they hope to have Peterson back on the field when the season begins, but the truth is no one can know for sure how a running back will come back from two torn knee ligaments and other assorted damage. Newly-promoted general manager Rick Spielman will have a difficult decision to make: Can the team continue to build its offense around Peterson? Does it necessitate the acquisition of a replacement or a philosophical shift? Of all their positions, running back represented the least of the Vikings' concerns at midseason. Now it's among their first priorities.
Biggest need: On a roster full of holes, no positions are more needy than defensive back and offensive line. The Vikings finished the season with Week 1 backups playing both cornerback and one safety positions, and the only incumbent who should have a decent chance to start in 2012 is veteran cornerback Antoine Winfield. Although they led the NFL with 50 sacks, the Vikings' coverage was so poor that opposing quarterbacks still compiled a 107.1 passer rating, the second-highest mark in NFL history. Meanwhile, the Vikings must find a long-term replacement for deposed left tackle Bryant McKinnie and might have to find a new left guard if Steve Hutchinson retires. The future of right guard Anthony Herrera is also up for debate.
Team MVP: Defensive end Jared Allen finished a half-sack shy of tying Michael Strahan's record for sacks in a season (22.5), along the way setting an example of how to continue playing hard despite the weight of a lost season. Runner up goes to Percy Harvin, who shed his migraine issues to become the kind of all-purpose receiver/running back the Vikings envisioned when they drafted him in 2009. He caught a team-high 87 passes and also took 52 carries, combining for 1,312 total yards and eight touchdowns.
Questionable call: Cornerback Chris Cook was arrested in October and eventually charged with strangulation and domestic abuse. In the end, the Vikings took the highly unusual path of dismissing him for the season while keeping him on the active roster and paying him game checks for the final eight games of the season. Coach Leslie Frazier said the organization wanted to give Cook a chance to get is life in order, but Frazier admitted this week that it's unclear what progress he has made. Unless he is incarcerated as a result of his upcoming trial, Cook seems likely to return to the team in training camp.
Arrow indicates direction team is trending.
Final Power Ranking: 30
Preseason Power Ranking: 20
[+] Enlarge
Geoff Burke/US PresswireAdrian Peterson's uncertain future hangs over the entire franchise.
Geoff Burke/US PresswireAdrian Peterson's uncertain future hangs over the entire franchise.Biggest disappointment: Tailback Adrian Peterson's shredded left knee will cast a shadow over the organization for months. The Vikings have said they hope to have Peterson back on the field when the season begins, but the truth is no one can know for sure how a running back will come back from two torn knee ligaments and other assorted damage. Newly-promoted general manager Rick Spielman will have a difficult decision to make: Can the team continue to build its offense around Peterson? Does it necessitate the acquisition of a replacement or a philosophical shift? Of all their positions, running back represented the least of the Vikings' concerns at midseason. Now it's among their first priorities.
Biggest need: On a roster full of holes, no positions are more needy than defensive back and offensive line. The Vikings finished the season with Week 1 backups playing both cornerback and one safety positions, and the only incumbent who should have a decent chance to start in 2012 is veteran cornerback Antoine Winfield. Although they led the NFL with 50 sacks, the Vikings' coverage was so poor that opposing quarterbacks still compiled a 107.1 passer rating, the second-highest mark in NFL history. Meanwhile, the Vikings must find a long-term replacement for deposed left tackle Bryant McKinnie and might have to find a new left guard if Steve Hutchinson retires. The future of right guard Anthony Herrera is also up for debate.
Related Coverage
• Clayton: AFC grades | NFC
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• Schatz: NFL's most underrated 
• Schatz: NFL's most overrated
• 2011 NFL Power Rankings
• MVP Watch | Rookie Watch
Questionable call: Cornerback Chris Cook was arrested in October and eventually charged with strangulation and domestic abuse. In the end, the Vikings took the highly unusual path of dismissing him for the season while keeping him on the active roster and paying him game checks for the final eight games of the season. Coach Leslie Frazier said the organization wanted to give Cook a chance to get is life in order, but Frazier admitted this week that it's unclear what progress he has made. Unless he is incarcerated as a result of his upcoming trial, Cook seems likely to return to the team in training camp.
» NFC Stock Watch: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
FALLING
1. Offensive line, Minnesota Vikings: I don't want to pick only on left guard Steve Hutchinson, who quite clearly isn't playing at the same level he did at the height of his career. The biggest problem is that Hutchinson remains the Vikings' best offensive lineman. Watching this group get manhandled Sunday by the Oakland Raiders suggested it will need a significant overhaul in the coming months. We've discussed the need to find a long-term replacement for departed left tackle Bryant McKinnie, but the reality is no job should be safe. The Vikings have a pair of 2011 draft picks, center/guard Brandon Fusco and tackle DeMarcus Love, serving as backups at the moment. I'm not sure if either projects as a long-term starter, but it's clear that immediate action is necessary one way or the other.
2. Bench warming time for Ryan Grant, Green Bay Packers tailback: Grant has started nine of the Packers' 10 games this season but is averaging about nine touches per game. That figure could increase significantly Thursday at Ford Field, given the knee/ankle injury of "backup" James Starks, who is averaging about twice as many touches per game. Even if Starks is available, you would think Grant could see his workload increased. Grant has been a perfect citizen and teammate during what must be a personally disappointing time. Typically, players who understand the big picture get an opportunity to make a big contribution at some point and in some way. Odds are that Grant will get that chance soon, if not Thursday.
3. The future of Chris Cook, Minnesota Vikings cornerback: Cook hasn't played since he was arrested Oct. 23 on a charge of felony strangulation following a domestic incident with his girlfriend. He is currently on what amounts to a paid suspension as he sorts through his issues, but you wonder whether his standing with the team will change at all after prosecutors added a second charge of third-degree assault. According to reports, the second charge resulted from news that the victim suffered a perforated eardrum during the incident and has experienced hearing loss. Cook has a court appearance scheduled for Tuesday.
RISING
1. Donald Driver, Green Bay Packers receiver: It was overshadowed by the performance of some teammates, but Driver had his most productive game of the season Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His four catches matched the season high he set in Week 1, and his 72 yards -- powered by a 35-yard catch-and-run in the third quarter -- were the most he has had in a regular-season game since Week 13 of 2010. Those figures are a reminder that Driver, 36, is no longer a primary option in the Packers' offense. But Sunday served notice that he can still make plays downfield when the opportunity presents itself.
2. Amateur medical practices in Chicago: Everyone has an opinion, medically based or otherwise, on how long a fractured right thumb should keep Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler out of action. Initial reports suggested he would miss the rest of the season and possibly be unavailable for the playoffs, but coach Lovie Smith appeared confident Monday that Cutler will return before the end of the regular season. But Smith wouldn't divulge enough details about Cutler's condition to give us a chance to verify his timetable. What we do know is that the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons recommends a cast or splint for between two and six weeks after surgery. Depending on severity of the injury, the rule of thumb (sorry) is that it can take up to three months to regain full use of the hand.
3. Matthew Stafford, Detroit Lions quarterback: We noted Monday how Stafford reversed his early game struggles against the Carolina Panthers on the way to a five-touchdown performance. Let's allow the folks at Cold Hard Football Facts to provide a wild glimpse at the big picture. In his three-year career, Stafford has trailed by at least 17 points in 10 of 23 starts. He has led game-winning comebacks in four of them. That's a pretty impressive trend for any quarterback, let alone one who is four months away from his 24th birthday.
FALLING
1. Offensive line, Minnesota Vikings: I don't want to pick only on left guard Steve Hutchinson, who quite clearly isn't playing at the same level he did at the height of his career. The biggest problem is that Hutchinson remains the Vikings' best offensive lineman. Watching this group get manhandled Sunday by the Oakland Raiders suggested it will need a significant overhaul in the coming months. We've discussed the need to find a long-term replacement for departed left tackle Bryant McKinnie, but the reality is no job should be safe. The Vikings have a pair of 2011 draft picks, center/guard Brandon Fusco and tackle DeMarcus Love, serving as backups at the moment. I'm not sure if either projects as a long-term starter, but it's clear that immediate action is necessary one way or the other.
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Jeff Hanisch/US PresswirePackers running back Ryan Grant could see a lot of action on Thursday against Detroit.
Jeff Hanisch/US PresswirePackers running back Ryan Grant could see a lot of action on Thursday against Detroit.3. The future of Chris Cook, Minnesota Vikings cornerback: Cook hasn't played since he was arrested Oct. 23 on a charge of felony strangulation following a domestic incident with his girlfriend. He is currently on what amounts to a paid suspension as he sorts through his issues, but you wonder whether his standing with the team will change at all after prosecutors added a second charge of third-degree assault. According to reports, the second charge resulted from news that the victim suffered a perforated eardrum during the incident and has experienced hearing loss. Cook has a court appearance scheduled for Tuesday.
RISING
1. Donald Driver, Green Bay Packers receiver: It was overshadowed by the performance of some teammates, but Driver had his most productive game of the season Sunday against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His four catches matched the season high he set in Week 1, and his 72 yards -- powered by a 35-yard catch-and-run in the third quarter -- were the most he has had in a regular-season game since Week 13 of 2010. Those figures are a reminder that Driver, 36, is no longer a primary option in the Packers' offense. But Sunday served notice that he can still make plays downfield when the opportunity presents itself.
2. Amateur medical practices in Chicago: Everyone has an opinion, medically based or otherwise, on how long a fractured right thumb should keep Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler out of action. Initial reports suggested he would miss the rest of the season and possibly be unavailable for the playoffs, but coach Lovie Smith appeared confident Monday that Cutler will return before the end of the regular season. But Smith wouldn't divulge enough details about Cutler's condition to give us a chance to verify his timetable. What we do know is that the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons recommends a cast or splint for between two and six weeks after surgery. Depending on severity of the injury, the rule of thumb (sorry) is that it can take up to three months to regain full use of the hand.
3. Matthew Stafford, Detroit Lions quarterback: We noted Monday how Stafford reversed his early game struggles against the Carolina Panthers on the way to a five-touchdown performance. Let's allow the folks at Cold Hard Football Facts to provide a wild glimpse at the big picture. In his three-year career, Stafford has trailed by at least 17 points in 10 of 23 starts. He has led game-winning comebacks in four of them. That's a pretty impressive trend for any quarterback, let alone one who is four months away from his 24th birthday.
» NFC Final Word: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
Five nuggets of knowledge about Week 2:
A focus on Chris Johnson: The Titans are semi-desperate to get their star running back going. But Mike Munchak has emphasized this week that they can’t force it. It’s hard to be patient waiting for the big play, but they can’t call 10 rush plays in a row for him. The Titans need to show some creativity on offense, and maybe turn themselves inside-out with some passes to set up the run. Matt Hasselbeck said they need to be in third-and-manageable to get off to a better start and to get the sort of possession they need to find an offensive flow. One good omen for Johnson: ESPN Stats & Info says he’s been very effective against 3-4 defenses, averaging about six yards per carry running outside against them.
Can the Colts rush? The Browns can neutralize Indianapolis’ pass rush by jumping ahead and riding Peyton Hillis. But when Colt McCoy is looking to throw, the matchups on Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis will be compelling. Freeney is a speed guy, and if Joe Thomas has any weakness, it might come against a guy like that. (See Pete Prisco on the matchup here.) Tony Pashos is out, so Mathis will go against some sort of rotation of backups Oniel Cousins and Artis Hicks. Mathis came out of the opener with a neck issue, but he should have a big advantage here.
Big plays in Jaguars-Jets: The Jaguars are not necessarily a big-play team in the passing game, and if they aren’t going to find big plays they have to be sure not to give them up, either. Stats & Info says Plaxico Burress was the only Jets receiver to be targeted more than twice on throws of 15 yards or more in the air in Week 1. Last season, the Jaguars allowed the most completions and yards per attempt on throws of at least 15 yards. The offensive line will have to sort through constant blitzes to allow Luke McCown to find people, and we could see Cecil Shorts get some big opportunities along with Mike Thomas.
Reggie Bush and the run: The Texans are 5-0 against the Dolphins but the average margin of victory has been just three points. Houston may be more ready to face Miami than usual after spending a lot of camp time working against its own 3-4 defense. Reggie Bush was on the field more than any starting running back in the league, and Miami will try to spread the Texans out and create space for Bush to make plays. A big, early lead was the Texans’ best run defense in the win against the Colts. But they were run on in the preseason, and we’ll see Sunday if things have tightened up or if there is still a run defense concern.
Replenished D-line: The Titans’ revamped defense was a disappointment in the Week 1 loss at Jacksonville. Why might it be better this week? Because two guys who didn’t play against the Jaguars -- Jason Jones and Derrick Morgan -- will be in the mix. They should be the team’s top defensive ends. Baltimore’s tackles, the resurrected Bryant McKinnie and Michael Oher, started strong against the Steelers. Can the Titans young rushers find some cracks?
Five nuggets of knowledge about Week 2:
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AP Photo/Phelan M. EbenhackThe Jaguars limited Titans running back Chris Johnson to 24 yards rushing in Week 1.
AP Photo/Phelan M. EbenhackThe Jaguars limited Titans running back Chris Johnson to 24 yards rushing in Week 1.Can the Colts rush? The Browns can neutralize Indianapolis’ pass rush by jumping ahead and riding Peyton Hillis. But when Colt McCoy is looking to throw, the matchups on Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis will be compelling. Freeney is a speed guy, and if Joe Thomas has any weakness, it might come against a guy like that. (See Pete Prisco on the matchup here.) Tony Pashos is out, so Mathis will go against some sort of rotation of backups Oniel Cousins and Artis Hicks. Mathis came out of the opener with a neck issue, but he should have a big advantage here.
Big plays in Jaguars-Jets: The Jaguars are not necessarily a big-play team in the passing game, and if they aren’t going to find big plays they have to be sure not to give them up, either. Stats & Info says Plaxico Burress was the only Jets receiver to be targeted more than twice on throws of 15 yards or more in the air in Week 1. Last season, the Jaguars allowed the most completions and yards per attempt on throws of at least 15 yards. The offensive line will have to sort through constant blitzes to allow Luke McCown to find people, and we could see Cecil Shorts get some big opportunities along with Mike Thomas.
Reggie Bush and the run: The Texans are 5-0 against the Dolphins but the average margin of victory has been just three points. Houston may be more ready to face Miami than usual after spending a lot of camp time working against its own 3-4 defense. Reggie Bush was on the field more than any starting running back in the league, and Miami will try to spread the Texans out and create space for Bush to make plays. A big, early lead was the Texans’ best run defense in the win against the Colts. But they were run on in the preseason, and we’ll see Sunday if things have tightened up or if there is still a run defense concern.
Replenished D-line: The Titans’ revamped defense was a disappointment in the Week 1 loss at Jacksonville. Why might it be better this week? Because two guys who didn’t play against the Jaguars -- Jason Jones and Derrick Morgan -- will be in the mix. They should be the team’s top defensive ends. Baltimore’s tackles, the resurrected Bryant McKinnie and Michael Oher, started strong against the Steelers. Can the Titans young rushers find some cracks?
NFC West Penalty Watch: Okung's triple
September, 15, 2011
9/15/11
11:15
AM ET
By
Mike Sando | ESPN.com
NFL officials flagged Seattle Seahawks left tackle Russell Okung three times in 10 games last season.
OkungThey matched that total against Okung in the 2011 opener at Candlestick Park.
The high total confirms in my mind the thinking that Okung wasn't quite up to speed in his first game back from an ankle injury. He was also facing a very strong San Francisco 49ers defensive front featuring Justin Smith, who had two sacks. One penalty was declined. Another was offsetting.
Facing the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 2 will present similar challenges (insert Bill Leavy joke here). Even though the Steelers struggled in their opening-week defeat at Baltimore, their defense was instrumental in drawing three penalties against the Ravens' offensive line. Officials flagged center Matt Birk, guard Ben Grubbs and tackle Bryant McKinnie for holding in that game.
Officials flagged Okung for holding (twice) and a false start. Okung's three penalties last season were for false starts, with two coming during the second half of a 34-18 home defeat against Atlanta in Week 15.
The first chart shows three-year totals for NFC West teams, according to ESPN Stats & Information. Totals count declined penalties.
The Oakland Raiders have the most during that time with 320, counting a league-high 17 in Week 1. The 49ers rank sixth with 260, followed by the Arizona Cardinals (254) and St. Louis Rams (254). The Seahawks are 15th with 234. The Falcons (176), Indianapolis Colts (177) and Jacksonville Jaguars (184) have the fewest.
Officials have flagged NFC West teams 999 times, more than they've flagged teams from any other division. AFC East teams have drawn the fewest (828).
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The second chart shows NFC West individual leaders for 2011. Officials have flagged five players from the division more than once.
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The high total confirms in my mind the thinking that Okung wasn't quite up to speed in his first game back from an ankle injury. He was also facing a very strong San Francisco 49ers defensive front featuring Justin Smith, who had two sacks. One penalty was declined. Another was offsetting.
Facing the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 2 will present similar challenges (insert Bill Leavy joke here). Even though the Steelers struggled in their opening-week defeat at Baltimore, their defense was instrumental in drawing three penalties against the Ravens' offensive line. Officials flagged center Matt Birk, guard Ben Grubbs and tackle Bryant McKinnie for holding in that game.
Officials flagged Okung for holding (twice) and a false start. Okung's three penalties last season were for false starts, with two coming during the second half of a 34-18 home defeat against Atlanta in Week 15.
The first chart shows three-year totals for NFC West teams, according to ESPN Stats & Information. Totals count declined penalties.
The Oakland Raiders have the most during that time with 320, counting a league-high 17 in Week 1. The 49ers rank sixth with 260, followed by the Arizona Cardinals (254) and St. Louis Rams (254). The Seahawks are 15th with 234. The Falcons (176), Indianapolis Colts (177) and Jacksonville Jaguars (184) have the fewest.
Officials have flagged NFC West teams 999 times, more than they've flagged teams from any other division. AFC East teams have drawn the fewest (828).
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The second chart shows NFC West individual leaders for 2011. Officials have flagged five players from the division more than once.
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Vikings part ways with more tenured vets
September, 3, 2011
9/03/11
1:51
PM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
Minnesota Vikings coach Leslie Frazier spent four seasons with the team as a defensive coordinator and has holdover assistants sprinkled throughout his coaching staff. It is now clear, however, that Frazier's promotion in no way ensured continuity within the Vikings roster.
Frazier released left tackle Bryant McKinnie at the start of training camp, and news is beginning to trickle out about the departures of some other stalwarts of the Brad Childress era. Linebacker/special teams ace Heath Farwell confirmed to multiple media outlets, including 1500ESPN.com, that he has been released. Meanwhile, agent Ralph Cindrich tweeted that tight end/fullback Jeff Dugan will be a free agent as of this evening, implying he will be released.
Dugan confirmed the move to Mark Craig of the Star Tribune.
Reserves throughout their careers, Dugan and Farwell were nevertheless among the Vikings' most tenured players. Dugan was a 7th-round draft choice in 2004 and Farwell joined the team as an undrafted rookie in 2005. Only two players, tight end Jim Kleinsasser and linebacker E.J. Henderson, have been with the Vikings longer than Dugan, and both he and Farwell were the kind of easy-going glue players that Childress and former coach Mike Tice wanted in the locker room.
That's not a knock on Frazier and his staff for moving on. It's difficult to develop young talent if you keep veterans as backups. Schemes change, players age and circumstances transform. Dugan and Farwell are dependable and of high character, but they were replaceable. But if there was any question, it's now clear that Frazier will be blazing his own trail despite his relatively deep roots within the organization.
Frazier released left tackle Bryant McKinnie at the start of training camp, and news is beginning to trickle out about the departures of some other stalwarts of the Brad Childress era. Linebacker/special teams ace Heath Farwell confirmed to multiple media outlets, including 1500ESPN.com, that he has been released. Meanwhile, agent Ralph Cindrich tweeted that tight end/fullback Jeff Dugan will be a free agent as of this evening, implying he will be released.
Dugan confirmed the move to Mark Craig of the Star Tribune.
Reserves throughout their careers, Dugan and Farwell were nevertheless among the Vikings' most tenured players. Dugan was a 7th-round draft choice in 2004 and Farwell joined the team as an undrafted rookie in 2005. Only two players, tight end Jim Kleinsasser and linebacker E.J. Henderson, have been with the Vikings longer than Dugan, and both he and Farwell were the kind of easy-going glue players that Childress and former coach Mike Tice wanted in the locker room.
That's not a knock on Frazier and his staff for moving on. It's difficult to develop young talent if you keep veterans as backups. Schemes change, players age and circumstances transform. Dugan and Farwell are dependable and of high character, but they were replaceable. But if there was any question, it's now clear that Frazier will be blazing his own trail despite his relatively deep roots within the organization.
Three things to watch for in Baltimore's preseason game against visiting Washington on Thursday night. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET. The game will be televised on ESPN.
Joe Flacco's efficiency: Flacco has been decent this preseason. But he's yet to have that dominating performance we've seen from other top quarterbacks. Flacco has missed some throws he usually makes. Some of the blame certainly goes to the offensive line. The pass protection has been inconsistent, which is why the team signed former Pro Bowl offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie this week. Still, the Ravens would like to see Flacco put together a great half or three quarters of football in Thursday's dress rehearsal game.
Secondary position battles: The Ravens are a veteran team without many position battles. But there are some spots still to be determined in the secondary. The biggest is the strong safety position. Bernard Pollard and Tom Zbikowski are having a healthy competition that could go down to the wire. Haruki Nakamura is also in the mix. Young corner Cary Williams had a great training camp and has the edge at cornerback. But experienced veterans such as Chris Carr, Domonique Foxworth and Lardarius Webb are battling for playing time. So Williams can't rest easy.
Development of receiver Lee Evans: Baltimore's newest acquisition at receiver had a successful debut last week against the Kansas City Chiefs. Evans, who was acquired in a trade with the Buffalo Bills, tied for the team lead with three receptions for 68 yards. Evans brings much-needed deep speed to Baltimore's offense. He is quickly developing a rapport with Flacco, who will need Evans this season.
Vikings: Smooth start for Donovan McNabb
August, 4, 2011
8/04/11
8:17
PM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
MANKATO, Minn. -- Donovan McNabb sat through four practices this week. Then he watched for another 37 minutes Thursday afternoon before finally getting the all-clear to jump into drills. At 4:03 p.m. local, McNabb took his first snap from center John Sullivan. At 4:07 p.m., he lined up for his first 11-on-11 series.
Receiver Bernard Berrian sprinted down the left sideline. McNabb watched him the whole way, drawing on what we later learned were some throwing sessions he had with Berrian and others this week at a local high school. Berrian got a step on cornerback Cedric Griffin, and McNabb dropped a deep pass into his hands in stride for a 60-yard touchdown.
We all had our theories on how McNabb would practice after a whirlwind week that saw him traded to the Vikings, thrust into an unfamiliar offensive system and forced immediately into a leadership role -- all while knowing the Vikings' No. 1 draft choice is in hot pursuit of his job. Given the circumstances Thursday, McNabb proved more than competent and was nowhere close to the top of the team's concerns.
(That trophy goes to the left tackle position. We'll get to that in a moment.)
"Our first play we connected and just kind of started going after that," McNabb said. "For myself, [the focus] was really just to calm down. Everything's moving a mile a minute, your legs feel so fresh, your drop is extremely fast and you just have to calm down. As practice continued on, I started to get in that rhythm and relax a little bit. We still have time to work on our chemistry and timing from quarterback to receivers. This is my first day having an opportunity to throw to all the guys, so it was a good start. But we have a lot to clean up."
Let it now be said: McNabb has now devoted more practice time to Minnesota State University, Mankato, than their most recent starter did in the past two summers combined. (The math was heavily in McNabb's favor as soon as he reported Sunday afternoon.) As it turns out, McNabb organized daily outings this week for players who, like him, were ineligible to practice because of the unratified collective bargaining agreement.
That meant McNabb, Berrian, receiver Michael Jenkins and others were making regular trips to a local high school for light football work.
"I think it was something that really is going to pay off," McNabb said. "This is my first time with these guys. I'm unfamiliar with how they run routes and the speed and things of that nature so the guys who weren't able to participate in the early practices, we spent some time together, we were able to bond and now it's time for me to work with the rest of the guys and the offensive linemen so we can be on the same page."
There's no sense trying to deeply analyze and evaluate McNabb's first full practice of the summer. But if you/I/we thought he would look lost, overwhelmed, frustrated or tense, then you/I/we were wrong. From an amateur vantage point, he appeared in command of the offense. I spotted only one glaring mistake, when he pulled away from center ahead of the snap count, and he even took some good-natured ribbing from now-backup quarterback Joe Webb -- who squirted water on his head in a mock cool-down attempt after McNabb sat idle for the first portion of practice.
After a while, in fact, I stopped watching McNabb and focused on the massacre taking place at left tackle, where Jared Allen and other Vikings defenders were blowing up new left tackle Charlie Johnson. Like McNabb, Johnson was dropped unexpectedly into a new role over the past week. McNabb admitted he was disappointed when the Vikings released former starter Bryant McKinnie and said: "As a quarterback, you don't want to hear about anything like that."
I'm sure Johnson will settle in as he learns the offense, but it will be interesting to track the Vikings' transition at the two most important positions on offense. Just a few days ago, would you have guessed left tackle would be a greater early-camp concern than quarterback -- or that the following quote from coach Leslie Frazier would be about Johnson rather than McNabb?
"We've got to start somewhere," Frazier said, "and the downside is those guys didn't get a chance to go through that period where we were just in shoulder pads, not in shoulder pads, but in helmets. So he missed that from a timing standpoint but, hey, he'll catch up to the speed of the game like we all will."
In reality, the time has finally come for the Vikings -- and everyone else in the NFL -- to move past the logistical strains caused by the lockout and focus on the season in a single-minded way.
"[We're] looking forward to normalcy if there is such a thing in the National Football League," Frazier said. "Every team has gone through the same things that we've gone through this entire offseason and every team experienced what we experienced today so we're not in the minority in that regard. Right now we can put some of those things behind us and we can concentrate on getting our team prepared to play this season."
At last.
Receiver Bernard Berrian sprinted down the left sideline. McNabb watched him the whole way, drawing on what we later learned were some throwing sessions he had with Berrian and others this week at a local high school. Berrian got a step on cornerback Cedric Griffin, and McNabb dropped a deep pass into his hands in stride for a 60-yard touchdown.
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Hannah Foslien/Getty ImagesDonovan McNabb could finally take the practice field after the CBA was ratified.
Hannah Foslien/Getty ImagesDonovan McNabb could finally take the practice field after the CBA was ratified.(That trophy goes to the left tackle position. We'll get to that in a moment.)
"Our first play we connected and just kind of started going after that," McNabb said. "For myself, [the focus] was really just to calm down. Everything's moving a mile a minute, your legs feel so fresh, your drop is extremely fast and you just have to calm down. As practice continued on, I started to get in that rhythm and relax a little bit. We still have time to work on our chemistry and timing from quarterback to receivers. This is my first day having an opportunity to throw to all the guys, so it was a good start. But we have a lot to clean up."
Let it now be said: McNabb has now devoted more practice time to Minnesota State University, Mankato, than their most recent starter did in the past two summers combined. (The math was heavily in McNabb's favor as soon as he reported Sunday afternoon.) As it turns out, McNabb organized daily outings this week for players who, like him, were ineligible to practice because of the unratified collective bargaining agreement.
That meant McNabb, Berrian, receiver Michael Jenkins and others were making regular trips to a local high school for light football work.
"I think it was something that really is going to pay off," McNabb said. "This is my first time with these guys. I'm unfamiliar with how they run routes and the speed and things of that nature so the guys who weren't able to participate in the early practices, we spent some time together, we were able to bond and now it's time for me to work with the rest of the guys and the offensive linemen so we can be on the same page."
There's no sense trying to deeply analyze and evaluate McNabb's first full practice of the summer. But if you/I/we thought he would look lost, overwhelmed, frustrated or tense, then you/I/we were wrong. From an amateur vantage point, he appeared in command of the offense. I spotted only one glaring mistake, when he pulled away from center ahead of the snap count, and he even took some good-natured ribbing from now-backup quarterback Joe Webb -- who squirted water on his head in a mock cool-down attempt after McNabb sat idle for the first portion of practice.
After a while, in fact, I stopped watching McNabb and focused on the massacre taking place at left tackle, where Jared Allen and other Vikings defenders were blowing up new left tackle Charlie Johnson. Like McNabb, Johnson was dropped unexpectedly into a new role over the past week. McNabb admitted he was disappointed when the Vikings released former starter Bryant McKinnie and said: "As a quarterback, you don't want to hear about anything like that."
I'm sure Johnson will settle in as he learns the offense, but it will be interesting to track the Vikings' transition at the two most important positions on offense. Just a few days ago, would you have guessed left tackle would be a greater early-camp concern than quarterback -- or that the following quote from coach Leslie Frazier would be about Johnson rather than McNabb?
"We've got to start somewhere," Frazier said, "and the downside is those guys didn't get a chance to go through that period where we were just in shoulder pads, not in shoulder pads, but in helmets. So he missed that from a timing standpoint but, hey, he'll catch up to the speed of the game like we all will."
In reality, the time has finally come for the Vikings -- and everyone else in the NFL -- to move past the logistical strains caused by the lockout and focus on the season in a single-minded way.
"[We're] looking forward to normalcy if there is such a thing in the National Football League," Frazier said. "Every team has gone through the same things that we've gone through this entire offseason and every team experienced what we experienced today so we're not in the minority in that regard. Right now we can put some of those things behind us and we can concentrate on getting our team prepared to play this season."
At last.
Vikings camp: Few mourn McKinnie's exit
August, 3, 2011
8/03/11
6:50
PM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
MANKATO, Minn. -- I came up about, oh, 85 players short Wednesday of talking to everyone on the Minnesota Vikings roster. So I can't say for sure that no one was upset by the decision to release longtime left tackle Bryant McKinnie, who reported to training camp weighing nearly 400 pounds.
Here's what I can tell you, however: Some players would have been upset if the Vikings hadn't released McKinnie.
Cornerback Antoine Winfield, for one, said he thought coach Leslie Frazier would give McKinnie a chance to get his weight and conditioning under control. But ultimately, Winfield agreed, "no one is untouchable."
Winfield added: "We all understood, everyone as professionals, that all we had to do is come in and come in shape. Coaches really had no choice but to do what they did."
The Vikings have a predominantly veteran roster, most of whom went to great lengths to stay in shape during the lockout. Winfield looked as fit and trim as ever. Left guard Steve Hutchinson said he is "in the best shape I've been in the last seven or eight years" after participating in Twin Cities workouts with six teammates. Defensive end Jared Allen, meanwhile, laughed when asked about his approach to working out this offseason.
"My philosophy is this is my job," Allen said. "This is my livelihood. You've got to assume the lockout is going to be done at some point, so it's your job to stay in shape. Everybody can find a gym."
No one blasted McKinnie nor expressed disappointment that he had left them searching for a left tackle in the first week of August. In my opinion, after watching McKinnie's immature behavior and dispassionate play for years, few of them counted him as part of the trusted core of veterans.
"You can't be mad at him," Winfield said. "I'm sure he's disappointed in himself. That's kind of embarrassing. But I think he's going to have to deal with it."
In the offseason, Winfield said, "guys do different things. Some guys relax, some guys travel. Some guys like to party. But you have to be disciplined. All you have to do is go work out, stay in some kind of shape, and perform."
McKinnie wasn't a disciplined teammate or player. That's why I don't think anyone who works as hard as Winfield, Allen or Hutchinson was really ruing his departure.
"Realistically," Hutchinson said, "if you came and showed up at camp with the hope that every player was in tip-top shape, I don't think anybody can whole-heartedly say, 'Yeah, everyone is going to be in the best shape of their life.' I'll admit, as you get older, you're not 23 years old anymore. It's hard to kind of get up maybe sometimes on your own and go run in the heat of the day, and push yourself to do the things that you would do when you're in an offseason conditioning program with all of the guys."
But that's just the point, isn't it? Hutchinson got a group together that included center John Sullivan, linebacker Heath Farwell and linebacker Chad Greenway, among others, to push each other on days when there were no conditioning coaches on top of them and no football coaches getting reports on their progress.
If you are a player who has paid the proverbial price, how much do you care about what happens to someone who didn't? And how would you have felt if that person got a free pass from training camp to do the work he should have done before it started?
You might be upset, and it's a double standard that coach Leslie Frazier avoided by quickly dispatching McKinnie. Frazier wouldn't discuss his reasoning behind the decision while speaking with reporters other than to say: "We made a decision for our organization for our organization that we thought was the best thing as we're trying to bring a world championship to Minnesota."
The Vikings could have left McKinnie on the non-football injury list for a while, hoping he would lose enough weight to regain his effectiveness by the start of the season. Frazier had a choice between extending McKinnie's career-long coddling session or standing up for the veterans who don't need or want to work in that kind of environment.
He chose the latter, and it needs no further explanation.
"Guys need to be on their jobs," Winfield said. "They're not untouchable."
Nor should they be.
Here's what I can tell you, however: Some players would have been upset if the Vikings hadn't released McKinnie.
[+] Enlarge
Joe Robbins/Getty ImagesViking cornerback Antoine Winfield on Bryant McKinnie: "All we had to do is come in and come in shape. Coaches really had no choice but to do what they did."
Joe Robbins/Getty ImagesViking cornerback Antoine Winfield on Bryant McKinnie: "All we had to do is come in and come in shape. Coaches really had no choice but to do what they did."Winfield added: "We all understood, everyone as professionals, that all we had to do is come in and come in shape. Coaches really had no choice but to do what they did."
The Vikings have a predominantly veteran roster, most of whom went to great lengths to stay in shape during the lockout. Winfield looked as fit and trim as ever. Left guard Steve Hutchinson said he is "in the best shape I've been in the last seven or eight years" after participating in Twin Cities workouts with six teammates. Defensive end Jared Allen, meanwhile, laughed when asked about his approach to working out this offseason.
"My philosophy is this is my job," Allen said. "This is my livelihood. You've got to assume the lockout is going to be done at some point, so it's your job to stay in shape. Everybody can find a gym."
No one blasted McKinnie nor expressed disappointment that he had left them searching for a left tackle in the first week of August. In my opinion, after watching McKinnie's immature behavior and dispassionate play for years, few of them counted him as part of the trusted core of veterans.
"You can't be mad at him," Winfield said. "I'm sure he's disappointed in himself. That's kind of embarrassing. But I think he's going to have to deal with it."
In the offseason, Winfield said, "guys do different things. Some guys relax, some guys travel. Some guys like to party. But you have to be disciplined. All you have to do is go work out, stay in some kind of shape, and perform."
McKinnie wasn't a disciplined teammate or player. That's why I don't think anyone who works as hard as Winfield, Allen or Hutchinson was really ruing his departure.
"Realistically," Hutchinson said, "if you came and showed up at camp with the hope that every player was in tip-top shape, I don't think anybody can whole-heartedly say, 'Yeah, everyone is going to be in the best shape of their life.' I'll admit, as you get older, you're not 23 years old anymore. It's hard to kind of get up maybe sometimes on your own and go run in the heat of the day, and push yourself to do the things that you would do when you're in an offseason conditioning program with all of the guys."
But that's just the point, isn't it? Hutchinson got a group together that included center John Sullivan, linebacker Heath Farwell and linebacker Chad Greenway, among others, to push each other on days when there were no conditioning coaches on top of them and no football coaches getting reports on their progress.
If you are a player who has paid the proverbial price, how much do you care about what happens to someone who didn't? And how would you have felt if that person got a free pass from training camp to do the work he should have done before it started?
You might be upset, and it's a double standard that coach Leslie Frazier avoided by quickly dispatching McKinnie. Frazier wouldn't discuss his reasoning behind the decision while speaking with reporters other than to say: "We made a decision for our organization for our organization that we thought was the best thing as we're trying to bring a world championship to Minnesota."
The Vikings could have left McKinnie on the non-football injury list for a while, hoping he would lose enough weight to regain his effectiveness by the start of the season. Frazier had a choice between extending McKinnie's career-long coddling session or standing up for the veterans who don't need or want to work in that kind of environment.
He chose the latter, and it needs no further explanation.
"Guys need to be on their jobs," Winfield said. "They're not untouchable."
Nor should they be.
In 2002, Bryant McKinnie was the No. 7 overall pick of the NFL draft. In 2006, he signed a seven-year contract extension as the Minnesota Vikings sought stability in the first year of coach Brad Childress' tenure.
Those two events gave McKinnie what appeared to be lifetime tenure as the Vikings' left tackle, a position that teams can struggle for years to fill. The Vikings soon forgot the pain of his near-100 day rookie holdout. They never seemed overly concerned about a number of off-field issues. They turned the other way when the NFL kicked him off the 2009 Pro Bowl team and, most important, seemed willing to tolerate some underwhelming seasons -- most recently in 2010.
Finding a true long-term answer at left tackle is arguably as difficult as finding a franchise quarterback. There aren't many of them out there, and in truth McKinnie is better than many of them -- regardless of how short he might have fallen from reaching his potential.
For that reason, if nothing else, I was surprised to hear the Vikings terminated McKinnie's contract Tuesday. He had been placed on the non-football injury list the day before, reportedly overweight and, according to Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times, fighting off the Vikings' efforts to cut his $4.9 million base salary.
No matter McKinnie's blemishes, real and imagined, you can understand why the Vikings stood by him for so long. Although they have a few options for replacement, none of them will play at the level McKinnie could have been counted on this season. Namely:
Obviously, no team wants to part ways with its left tackle two days into training camp. So why did this happen? Why did the Vikings choose now to battle McKinnie on issues that have been present at various times throughout his career?
Perhaps we'll find out more when coach Leslie Frazier addresses reporters Wednesday morning. But until then, I'll consider it a warning shot from a new coach who wanted to shake up a culture of continuity.
Frazier was the Vikings' defensive coordinator for four years before the Vikings promoted him to the full-time head coaching position. So it would be reasonable for players to expect a comfortable transition, robbing Frazier of the unease that many new coaches project on an underachieving roster. In that regard, who better to chase off than McKinnie, who might be the most stark symbol of the Vikings' problems over the past decade?
Latest evidence: McKinnie's three-word summation of his career via Twitter: "Its been fun."
Without question, this move will cause some short-term pain. It's rare to have a seamless transition at left tackle. You could argue that Frazier might have found a less critical position to sacrifice to make his point. But if McKinnie has lost his tenure, no one on the Vikings roster should feel comfortable. Welcome to Camp Frazier.
[+] Enlarge
Rafael Suanes/US PresswireVikings coach Leslie Frazier might have sent a message to the rest of the Minnesota roster by parting ways with longtime left tackle Bryant McKinnie.
Rafael Suanes/US PresswireVikings coach Leslie Frazier might have sent a message to the rest of the Minnesota roster by parting ways with longtime left tackle Bryant McKinnie.Finding a true long-term answer at left tackle is arguably as difficult as finding a franchise quarterback. There aren't many of them out there, and in truth McKinnie is better than many of them -- regardless of how short he might have fallen from reaching his potential.
For that reason, if nothing else, I was surprised to hear the Vikings terminated McKinnie's contract Tuesday. He had been placed on the non-football injury list the day before, reportedly overweight and, according to Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times, fighting off the Vikings' efforts to cut his $4.9 million base salary.
No matter McKinnie's blemishes, real and imagined, you can understand why the Vikings stood by him for so long. Although they have a few options for replacement, none of them will play at the level McKinnie could have been counted on this season. Namely:
- Charlie Johnson: The Vikings signed him Monday as a free agent who has played multiple positions along the line. Johnson has played left tackle, most recently for the Indianapolis Colts, but at 6-foot-4, he doesn't have the typical frame of a 16-game left tackle.
- Phil Loadholt: The Vikings' 6-foot-8 right tackle played on the left side at Oklahoma and reported to training camp in good shape. Loadholt, however, has yet to establish himself as an above-average right tackle. Could he make the switch to left tackle at this point in his career?
Obviously, no team wants to part ways with its left tackle two days into training camp. So why did this happen? Why did the Vikings choose now to battle McKinnie on issues that have been present at various times throughout his career?
Perhaps we'll find out more when coach Leslie Frazier addresses reporters Wednesday morning. But until then, I'll consider it a warning shot from a new coach who wanted to shake up a culture of continuity.
Frazier was the Vikings' defensive coordinator for four years before the Vikings promoted him to the full-time head coaching position. So it would be reasonable for players to expect a comfortable transition, robbing Frazier of the unease that many new coaches project on an underachieving roster. In that regard, who better to chase off than McKinnie, who might be the most stark symbol of the Vikings' problems over the past decade?
Latest evidence: McKinnie's three-word summation of his career via Twitter: "Its been fun."
Without question, this move will cause some short-term pain. It's rare to have a seamless transition at left tackle. You could argue that Frazier might have found a less critical position to sacrifice to make his point. But if McKinnie has lost his tenure, no one on the Vikings roster should feel comfortable. Welcome to Camp Frazier.
This week's installment of ESPN.com's positional power rankings was quiet for the NFC North. None of our left tackles were ranked among the top 10.
Two received votes: Chad Clifton of the Green Bay Packers and Jeff Backus of the Detroit Lions. Clifton appeared on three ballots, ranking as high as No. 6 for AFC West colleague Bill Williamson. Backus appeared on one ballot, the one submitted by yours truly.
In making that distinction, I stayed consistent with the February discussion that ranked Backus over Clifton for our 2010 All-NFC North team. Whether Backus deserved to be among the top 10 is a fair debate, but I looked at the group and saw a pretty significant drop-off after the top five or six. To me, Backus was as deserving as any other candidate for a spot in the bottom third of the vote.
The Minnesota Vikings' Bryant McKinnie neither received, nor really merited, any discussion for this ranking. And as of now, the Chicago Bears haven't identified their left tackle.
Two received votes: Chad Clifton of the Green Bay Packers and Jeff Backus of the Detroit Lions. Clifton appeared on three ballots, ranking as high as No. 6 for AFC West colleague Bill Williamson. Backus appeared on one ballot, the one submitted by yours truly.
In making that distinction, I stayed consistent with the February discussion that ranked Backus over Clifton for our 2010 All-NFC North team. Whether Backus deserved to be among the top 10 is a fair debate, but I looked at the group and saw a pretty significant drop-off after the top five or six. To me, Backus was as deserving as any other candidate for a spot in the bottom third of the vote.
The Minnesota Vikings' Bryant McKinnie neither received, nor really merited, any discussion for this ranking. And as of now, the Chicago Bears haven't identified their left tackle.
