NFL Nation: Rod Marinelli
Months of mocks and related analysis did not adequately prepare us for a half-dozen selections in the first round of the 2012 NFL draft.
NFC West teams made two of those surprise selections: Bruce Irvin to the Seattle Seahawks and A.J. Jenkins to the San Francisco 49ers. I've listed four others in the chart below after consulting with our other seven divisional bloggers.
While it's possible the teams involved made poor decisions in some cases, accounting for the surprise factor, there's no question the rest of us could have done a better job anticipating. I'll set aside the Dallas Cowboys' selection of cornerback Morris Claiborne. We knew Dallas could take a corner, but there was little way we could know the Cowboys would trade into the sixth overall spot to make it happen.
But in breaking down the other surprise selections, we can hopefully avoid making similar mistakes in the future.
Mistaken identity
Jenkins and New York Giants first-round running back David Wilson fall into this category.
We knew the 49ers could target a receiver early. We figured running back would be a position for the Giants to address. We simply misidentified the players they were most likely to select.
I had projected Kendall Wright to San Francisco in a mock draft several weeks ago, but Tennessee selected him 20th overall, 10 spots before the 49ers selected. Stephen Hill and Rueben Randle, among others, were popular projections.
The knock on Jenkins was that he lacked sufficient physical strength. The 49ers are a very physical team. They have valued physical players. Josh Morgan was a physical wideout the team would have retained if Washington hadn't made an over-the-top contract offer.
In retrospect, however, perhaps we should have more closely considered the receivers San Francisco did sign this offseason. Mario Manningham has never been known as a physical player. Ted Ginn Jr. is not physical at all.
The 49ers now have drafted two wide receivers under coach Jim Harbaugh. Ronald Johnson, a sixth-round pick in 2011, was the one before Jenkins. Lack of physical strength was a knock on Johnson coming out of college.
So far, the 49ers have done a very good job evaluating personnel at just about every position, but receiver has been an exception. Perhaps that changes with Jenkins.
For the Giants, Doug Martin was the running back projected as a first-round candidate somewhat regularly. Tampa Bay drafted Martin at No. 31, one spot ahead of where the Giants were picking. That gave this draft three first-round backs, one more than was typically projected.
Scheme considerations
Irvin and Chicago Bears first-round defensive end Shea McClellin fall into this category.
We could put Irvin in the mistaken identity category as well because the Seahawks' need for a pass-rusher was well-established. But the projections commonly assumed Seattle would be looking for a more traditional defensive end, one big enough to hold up against the run.
In retrospect, we should have at least mentioned Irvin as a possibility.
Seattle gave run-stuffing defensive end Red Bryant a $35 million contract this offseason. Bryant is going to start and play early downs for the next few seasons. That meant the Seahawks were in the market only for a player in the "Leo" role filled by leading sacker Chris Clemons.
Irvin is that type of player. The other defensive ends commonly associated with Seattle before the draft were not "Leo" types. They would have projected as eventual starters on the other side, where Bryant appears entrenched.
What the Seahawks needed, from their perspective, was a pure pass-rusher to play a situational role similar to the one Aldon Smith played with San Francisco last season. That player, Irvin, would project as the eventual replacement for Clemons, most likely.
Syracuse's Chandler Jones, a common projection for Seattle in the days before the draft, could have fit that profile. Concerns over a toe injury probably hurt his stock.
In Chicago, meanwhile, the Bears' need for a defensive end was no secret. However, most projections seemed to suggest McClellin would make more sense as a 3-4 outside linebacker, perhaps in Green Bay. In retrospect, however, Bears assistant Rod Marinelli does tend to like smaller defensive ends. Perhaps McClellin should have been considered more strongly as a candidate for Chicago.
Positional evaluation error
I'd throw Stanford guard David DeCastro into this category.
The assumption heading into the draft was DeCastro would not be available when the Pittsburgh Steelers selected with the 24th overall choice. As a result, DeCastro wasn't commonly linked to Pittsburgh before the draft.
But as we discussed on the blog a while back, teams had taken only five pure guards among the top 17 overall selections since 1995. Only one had gone higher than 17th since 1998.
Guards have made significant gains in financial compensation over the years. However, teams still value other positions at a much higher level. Guard was a common projection for San Francisco at No. 30, but the 49ers did not select one until the fourth round.
Conclusion
There's a tendency to criticize teams for making decisions we did not see coming.
That is self-serving.
I'd rather take a closer look at the surprises and find out where the rest of us went wrong.
NFC West teams made two of those surprise selections: Bruce Irvin to the Seattle Seahawks and A.J. Jenkins to the San Francisco 49ers. I've listed four others in the chart below after consulting with our other seven divisional bloggers.
While it's possible the teams involved made poor decisions in some cases, accounting for the surprise factor, there's no question the rest of us could have done a better job anticipating. I'll set aside the Dallas Cowboys' selection of cornerback Morris Claiborne. We knew Dallas could take a corner, but there was little way we could know the Cowboys would trade into the sixth overall spot to make it happen.
But in breaking down the other surprise selections, we can hopefully avoid making similar mistakes in the future.
Mistaken identity
Jenkins and New York Giants first-round running back David Wilson fall into this category.
We knew the 49ers could target a receiver early. We figured running back would be a position for the Giants to address. We simply misidentified the players they were most likely to select.
I had projected Kendall Wright to San Francisco in a mock draft several weeks ago, but Tennessee selected him 20th overall, 10 spots before the 49ers selected. Stephen Hill and Rueben Randle, among others, were popular projections.
The knock on Jenkins was that he lacked sufficient physical strength. The 49ers are a very physical team. They have valued physical players. Josh Morgan was a physical wideout the team would have retained if Washington hadn't made an over-the-top contract offer.
In retrospect, however, perhaps we should have more closely considered the receivers San Francisco did sign this offseason. Mario Manningham has never been known as a physical player. Ted Ginn Jr. is not physical at all.
The 49ers now have drafted two wide receivers under coach Jim Harbaugh. Ronald Johnson, a sixth-round pick in 2011, was the one before Jenkins. Lack of physical strength was a knock on Johnson coming out of college.
So far, the 49ers have done a very good job evaluating personnel at just about every position, but receiver has been an exception. Perhaps that changes with Jenkins.
For the Giants, Doug Martin was the running back projected as a first-round candidate somewhat regularly. Tampa Bay drafted Martin at No. 31, one spot ahead of where the Giants were picking. That gave this draft three first-round backs, one more than was typically projected.
Scheme considerations
Irvin and Chicago Bears first-round defensive end Shea McClellin fall into this category.
We could put Irvin in the mistaken identity category as well because the Seahawks' need for a pass-rusher was well-established. But the projections commonly assumed Seattle would be looking for a more traditional defensive end, one big enough to hold up against the run.
In retrospect, we should have at least mentioned Irvin as a possibility.
Seattle gave run-stuffing defensive end Red Bryant a $35 million contract this offseason. Bryant is going to start and play early downs for the next few seasons. That meant the Seahawks were in the market only for a player in the "Leo" role filled by leading sacker Chris Clemons.
Irvin is that type of player. The other defensive ends commonly associated with Seattle before the draft were not "Leo" types. They would have projected as eventual starters on the other side, where Bryant appears entrenched.
What the Seahawks needed, from their perspective, was a pure pass-rusher to play a situational role similar to the one Aldon Smith played with San Francisco last season. That player, Irvin, would project as the eventual replacement for Clemons, most likely.
Syracuse's Chandler Jones, a common projection for Seattle in the days before the draft, could have fit that profile. Concerns over a toe injury probably hurt his stock.
In Chicago, meanwhile, the Bears' need for a defensive end was no secret. However, most projections seemed to suggest McClellin would make more sense as a 3-4 outside linebacker, perhaps in Green Bay. In retrospect, however, Bears assistant Rod Marinelli does tend to like smaller defensive ends. Perhaps McClellin should have been considered more strongly as a candidate for Chicago.
Positional evaluation error
I'd throw Stanford guard David DeCastro into this category.
The assumption heading into the draft was DeCastro would not be available when the Pittsburgh Steelers selected with the 24th overall choice. As a result, DeCastro wasn't commonly linked to Pittsburgh before the draft.
But as we discussed on the blog a while back, teams had taken only five pure guards among the top 17 overall selections since 1995. Only one had gone higher than 17th since 1998.
Guards have made significant gains in financial compensation over the years. However, teams still value other positions at a much higher level. Guard was a common projection for San Francisco at No. 30, but the 49ers did not select one until the fourth round.
Conclusion
There's a tendency to criticize teams for making decisions we did not see coming.
That is self-serving.
I'd rather take a closer look at the surprises and find out where the rest of us went wrong.
Packers give Aaron Rodgers a new coach
February, 8, 2012
Feb 8
6:05
PM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
We've had two coaching developments Wednesday afternoon in the NFC North. We'll start with the Green Bay Packers' apparent shift of assistant Ben McAdoo from tight ends coach to quarterbacks coach, a move first reported by Jason La Canfora of NFL.com.
It was obvious that Packers coach Mike McCarthy had something in mind for McAdoo when he blocked requests from the Miami Dolphins and Tampa Bay Buccaneers to interview him for their offensive coordinator jobs. McAdoo will fill the role once held by the highly regarded Tom Clements, whom McCarthy recently promoted to offensive coordinator to replace the departed Joe Philbin.
While McAdoo is obviously considered an up-and-comer in several corners of the NFL, Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers appeared skeptical earlier this week on his ESPN 540 radio show about the possibility of installing a coach with no experience at the position. Here's what Rodgers had to say about reports that McAdoo was a candidate for the job:
McAdoo, 34, has coached with McCarthy when both were with the New Orleans Saints (2004) and the San Francisco 49ers (2005). He was one of McCarthy's first hires when he got the Packers job in 2006 and has been their tight ends coach ever since. No matter how good a coach he is, it's fair to ask if he has the expertise to speak the language of a veteran MVP quarterback. McAdoo will also have the important job of developing the Packers' next backup quarterback, assuming that Matt Flynn signs elsewhere as a free agent.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears rounded out their staff by hiring Tim Holt as their offensive line coach. Holt was the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' assistant offensive line coach in 2011, and it's expected that new offensive coordinator Mike Tice will retain a daily presence with the offensive line, much as defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli does with the Bears' defensive line.
It was obvious that Packers coach Mike McCarthy had something in mind for McAdoo when he blocked requests from the Miami Dolphins and Tampa Bay Buccaneers to interview him for their offensive coordinator jobs. McAdoo will fill the role once held by the highly regarded Tom Clements, whom McCarthy recently promoted to offensive coordinator to replace the departed Joe Philbin.
While McAdoo is obviously considered an up-and-comer in several corners of the NFL, Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers appeared skeptical earlier this week on his ESPN 540 radio show about the possibility of installing a coach with no experience at the position. Here's what Rodgers had to say about reports that McAdoo was a candidate for the job:
"I think that's an interesting conversation I hope I'm in the loop for, because going into my eighth season it'll be interesting to see what direction [McCarthy] wants to go in -- if he wants to bring in a former quarterback with experience to kind of help me with my transition into the middle part of my career being more of an established player in the league now. I'm not sure what the dynamic would be with a coach who hasn't coached the position before, but Ben is a very talented coach and if they do make that decision I'm sure he'll make a very smooth transition."
McAdoo, 34, has coached with McCarthy when both were with the New Orleans Saints (2004) and the San Francisco 49ers (2005). He was one of McCarthy's first hires when he got the Packers job in 2006 and has been their tight ends coach ever since. No matter how good a coach he is, it's fair to ask if he has the expertise to speak the language of a veteran MVP quarterback. McAdoo will also have the important job of developing the Packers' next backup quarterback, assuming that Matt Flynn signs elsewhere as a free agent.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears rounded out their staff by hiring Tim Holt as their offensive line coach. Holt was the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' assistant offensive line coach in 2011, and it's expected that new offensive coordinator Mike Tice will retain a daily presence with the offensive line, much as defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli does with the Bears' defensive line.
Kinda hit a wall Friday evening. Happens. Now refreshed and ready for a weekend that will include our first training camp stop (more on that in a bit), let's slam through some random NFC North thoughts in quick-hit fashion:
Item: Chicago Bears tailback Matt Forte reported to training camp on time Friday after general manager Jerry Angelo assured his contract would be upgraded. "He told me a deal will get done," Forte said. "He said I'm a priority of his. What that means, hopefully that means soon. I mean, there's no telling with them. But to me priority means soon."
Comment: Timing is only half of the uncertainty. Angelo's idea of a fair deal for a running back might be different than Forte's. It's good to know the Bears will make an effort. But after DeAngelo Williams scored $21 million in guarantees from the Carolina Panthers, will their effort match Forte's demands?
Item: Bears camp opened without center Olin Kreutz, who remains an unrestricted free agent.
Comment: Kreutz is in discussions with the Bears but also has interest from the San Francisco 49ers. Odds remain he will return to Chicago, but Kreutz might be wise to let the Bears have a few practices without him to emphasize his value to them. And I'm guessing he won't be too disappointed if his time in Bourbonnais, Ill., is cut short a bit anyway.
Item: The Bears signed defensive end Vernon Gholston to a free agent contract.
Comment: I just googled Gholston to find his career stats. The first suggestion was "Vernon Gholston bust." That tells you all you need to know. The No. 6 overall pick of the 2008 draft has no career sacks. But there is no downside to giving him a flyer for camp, and if anyone can get something out of him, it's Bears defensive coordinator/line guru Rod Marinelli.
Item: The Detroit Lions placed left tackle Jeff Backus (pectoral) and cornerback Alphonso Smith (foot) on the active/non-football injury list.
Comment: Originally both players were destined for the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. The difference? Because the injuries occurred during the lockout, the contracts of both players would void (with no injury settlement) if the Lions decide to part ways. I don't think that's going to happen in either case, but it's an available option.
Item: Referring to defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh's brand-building activities this offseason, Lions coach Jim Schwartz said: "There were more Suh sightings than Bigfoot."
Comment: I'm glad someone said it.
Item: The Green Bay Packers agreed to terms with first-round draft pick Derek Sherrod, according to the Green Bay Press-Gazette and others.
Comment: The new collective bargaining agreement has rendered rookie negotiations pretty uneventful, at least until agents start finding some loopholes. But at this point, it would be a surprise if an NFC North team had a rookie holdout. The Packers' first practice is Saturday night.
Item: Packers coach Mike McCarthy and his wife, Jessica, welcomed baby daughter Isabella Conroy late Thursday night.
Comment: Sure, McCarthy won the Super Bowl last season. But if he really wants to show us something, he'll take the 2 a.m. feeding throughout training camp.
Item: New Minnesota Vikings quarterback Donovan McNabb secured his No. 5 from punter Chris Kluwe in a deal captured on video by the team's web site. McNabb agreed to donate $5,000 to a charity Kluwe supports. He also pledged to mention Kluwe's band in five separate news conferences and finally to buy Kluwe an ice cream cone.
Comment: Kluwe, who will wear No. 4, is one of the breakout stars of the lockout.
Item: The Vikings are presumably still in negotiations to sign a free agent receiver, but coach Leslie Frazier had this to say: "Bernard Berrian is going to step up and have a great year."
Comment: Berrian could be one of the biggest beneficiaries of the transition from Brett Favre to McNabb. For reasons that haven't fully been explained, Favre and Berrian never connected on a personal or football level.
Item: Chicago Bears tailback Matt Forte reported to training camp on time Friday after general manager Jerry Angelo assured his contract would be upgraded. "He told me a deal will get done," Forte said. "He said I'm a priority of his. What that means, hopefully that means soon. I mean, there's no telling with them. But to me priority means soon."
Comment: Timing is only half of the uncertainty. Angelo's idea of a fair deal for a running back might be different than Forte's. It's good to know the Bears will make an effort. But after DeAngelo Williams scored $21 million in guarantees from the Carolina Panthers, will their effort match Forte's demands?
Item: Bears camp opened without center Olin Kreutz, who remains an unrestricted free agent.
Comment: Kreutz is in discussions with the Bears but also has interest from the San Francisco 49ers. Odds remain he will return to Chicago, but Kreutz might be wise to let the Bears have a few practices without him to emphasize his value to them. And I'm guessing he won't be too disappointed if his time in Bourbonnais, Ill., is cut short a bit anyway.
Item: The Bears signed defensive end Vernon Gholston to a free agent contract.
Comment: I just googled Gholston to find his career stats. The first suggestion was "Vernon Gholston bust." That tells you all you need to know. The No. 6 overall pick of the 2008 draft has no career sacks. But there is no downside to giving him a flyer for camp, and if anyone can get something out of him, it's Bears defensive coordinator/line guru Rod Marinelli.
Item: The Detroit Lions placed left tackle Jeff Backus (pectoral) and cornerback Alphonso Smith (foot) on the active/non-football injury list.
Comment: Originally both players were destined for the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. The difference? Because the injuries occurred during the lockout, the contracts of both players would void (with no injury settlement) if the Lions decide to part ways. I don't think that's going to happen in either case, but it's an available option.
Item: Referring to defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh's brand-building activities this offseason, Lions coach Jim Schwartz said: "There were more Suh sightings than Bigfoot."
Comment: I'm glad someone said it.
Item: The Green Bay Packers agreed to terms with first-round draft pick Derek Sherrod, according to the Green Bay Press-Gazette and others.
Comment: The new collective bargaining agreement has rendered rookie negotiations pretty uneventful, at least until agents start finding some loopholes. But at this point, it would be a surprise if an NFC North team had a rookie holdout. The Packers' first practice is Saturday night.
Item: Packers coach Mike McCarthy and his wife, Jessica, welcomed baby daughter Isabella Conroy late Thursday night.
Comment: Sure, McCarthy won the Super Bowl last season. But if he really wants to show us something, he'll take the 2 a.m. feeding throughout training camp.
Item: New Minnesota Vikings quarterback Donovan McNabb secured his No. 5 from punter Chris Kluwe in a deal captured on video by the team's web site. McNabb agreed to donate $5,000 to a charity Kluwe supports. He also pledged to mention Kluwe's band in five separate news conferences and finally to buy Kluwe an ice cream cone.
Comment: Kluwe, who will wear No. 4, is one of the breakout stars of the lockout.
Item: The Vikings are presumably still in negotiations to sign a free agent receiver, but coach Leslie Frazier had this to say: "Bernard Berrian is going to step up and have a great year."
Comment: Berrian could be one of the biggest beneficiaries of the transition from Brett Favre to McNabb. For reasons that haven't fully been explained, Favre and Berrian never connected on a personal or football level.
Thursday afternoon marked the opening of the NFL's official waiver season, when teams can formally release players and begin adjusting their salary cap structure. We've already discussed the Chicago Bears' now-official decision to release tight end Brandon Manumaleuna, and now we'll hit some other NFC North-related personnel moves in quick-hitting fashion.
Item: The Green Bay Packers have informed linebacker Brady Poppinga and defensive tackle Justin Harrell they will be released, according to Jason Wilde of ESPNMilwaukee.com.
Comment: Poppinga was coming off a serious knee injury. Harrell now qualifies as the biggest bust of general manager Ted Thompson's tenure. Drafted with a history of injuries, Harrell couldn't stay on the field for the Packers.
Item: The Minnesota Vikings released safety Madieu Williams.
Comment: Williams was due $5.4 million in 2011, a high price for a player who might not have made the team. He was originally signed on the advice of now-coach Leslie Frazier, but a 2008 neck injury seemed to rob him of some aggressiveness as a tackler. I'm not sure if his replacement is on the roster yet, but Tyrell Johnson might get a chance.
Item: The Detroit Lions will release linebacker Jordon Dizon.
Comment: Dizon was a vestige of Rod Marinelli's Tampa-2 defense and too small to fit into the Lions' current scheme.
Item: The Bears lost out on two free agents they have been reported to have interest in, receiver Brad Smith and offensive lineman Jermon Bushrod.
Comment: They're too busy getting straight at tight end to worry about all that.
Item: The Green Bay Packers have informed linebacker Brady Poppinga and defensive tackle Justin Harrell they will be released, according to Jason Wilde of ESPNMilwaukee.com.
Comment: Poppinga was coming off a serious knee injury. Harrell now qualifies as the biggest bust of general manager Ted Thompson's tenure. Drafted with a history of injuries, Harrell couldn't stay on the field for the Packers.
Item: The Minnesota Vikings released safety Madieu Williams.
Comment: Williams was due $5.4 million in 2011, a high price for a player who might not have made the team. He was originally signed on the advice of now-coach Leslie Frazier, but a 2008 neck injury seemed to rob him of some aggressiveness as a tackler. I'm not sure if his replacement is on the roster yet, but Tyrell Johnson might get a chance.
Item: The Detroit Lions will release linebacker Jordon Dizon.
Comment: Dizon was a vestige of Rod Marinelli's Tampa-2 defense and too small to fit into the Lions' current scheme.
Item: The Bears lost out on two free agents they have been reported to have interest in, receiver Brad Smith and offensive lineman Jermon Bushrod.
Comment: They're too busy getting straight at tight end to worry about all that.
Power Rankings: NFC North rising coaches
June, 22, 2011
6/22/11
11:00
AM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
This week's edition of ESPN.com's offseason Power Rankings was one of my favorites, and not just because I wrote it. As opposed to ranking the best of this moment, our goal was to look ahead and project some of the people we might include in future Power Rankings.
If we're right, this week's list represents the core members of the next wave of NFL head-coaching candidates. We didn't include college coaches, and we made the executive decision to eliminate anyone who has already been a head coach, allowing us to focus on up-and-coming assistants throughout the league.
Given how much projection was involved in this exercise, I felt most comfortable with the people I know most about. (So did the other bloggers, and 24 assistants ended up appearing on at least one ballot.) To that end, I voted for four NFC North coaches in the order below:
3. Green Bay Packers safeties coach Darren Perry
6. Packers receivers coach Edgar Bennett
7. Chicago Bears special-teams coach Dave Toub
10. Packers assistant head coach/inside linebackers Winston Moss
Moss (No. 6) and Perry (No. 10) made the top 10. My thoughts below:
If we're right, this week's list represents the core members of the next wave of NFL head-coaching candidates. We didn't include college coaches, and we made the executive decision to eliminate anyone who has already been a head coach, allowing us to focus on up-and-coming assistants throughout the league.
Given how much projection was involved in this exercise, I felt most comfortable with the people I know most about. (So did the other bloggers, and 24 assistants ended up appearing on at least one ballot.) To that end, I voted for four NFC North coaches in the order below:
3. Green Bay Packers safeties coach Darren Perry
6. Packers receivers coach Edgar Bennett
7. Chicago Bears special-teams coach Dave Toub
10. Packers assistant head coach/inside linebackers Winston Moss
Moss (No. 6) and Perry (No. 10) made the top 10. My thoughts below:
- Perry has two important attributes going for him. First, he is a good coach and deserves credit not only for guiding the transition of Pro Bowl free safety Nick Collins into a new scheme but also patching together the strong safety spot last season between multiple starters. Second, and this is just as important to his future, he is a long-time disciple of defensive coordinator Dom Capers, having played and coached in his 3-4 scheme. Given the success of the Packers' defense last season, and the fact that both Super Bowl teams played that scheme last season, Perry has the schematic pedigree NFL teams will be looking for. Many people around the league believe it is a matter of when, not if, Perry makes the next step to defensive coordinator.
- Bennett presided over the rise of tailback Ryan Grant from obscurity in 2007 and has drawn particular praise for drills designed to limit fumbles. Grant deserves some credit as well, but the fact remains he lost five fumbles in three years under Bennett as the Packers' primary tailback. Last season, no one among the trio of Brandon Jackson, John Kuhn and James Starks lost a fumble on a running play. The Packers' decision to shift Bennett to receivers coach suggests he is being groomed for a bigger job -- either in Green Bay or elsewhere.
- I didn't really expect anyone else to vote for Toub, and I can't say for sure that an NFL owner would seriously consider hiring a special-teams coach from outside the organization for his own head-coaching job. But Toub has quite simply fielded the most competent and explosive special-teams group in the NFL since joining the Bears in 2004. (One obscure stat among many: The Bears have more blocked kicks during Toub's tenure than any other NFL team.) Toub also has the global mindset necessary to be a head coach, and in 2009, Philadelphia Eagles coach Andy Reid said: "On your staff, the coach that's best prepared to be a head coach is your special-teams coach. They have to deal with everybody on the roster, plus [the media]. That's a tough thing to do. Dave Toub would be a great head coach down the road." Like current Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh, Toub might need to move to an offensive or defensive role for a time period to balance his résumé.
- Moss drew interest from both the St. Louis Rams and Oakland Raiders two years ago for their respective head-coaching jobs. He is a strong leader, someone that players enjoy working for and deserves credit for transitioning A.J. Hawk into an inside linebacker and Desmond Bishop into a full-time starter. Moss has experience in a 3-4 and a 4-3 scheme, and there was talk of the Raiders hiring him as their defensive coordinator this winter. My thought in ranking him No. 10 is that NFL teams would pursue Perry before Moss because of Perry's connection with Capers, but that's just an educated guess.
- Remember, this was a ranking of up-and-coming assistants, not a list of the 10 best assistant coaches in the NFL. If it had been, my list would have looked dramatically different. Many of the NFC North's best assistants are former head coaches who might not get another chance at the top job. That list includes Capers, Chicago Bears assistants Rod Marinelli, Mike Martz and Mike Tice, and Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Scott Linehan.
- And finally, we put together a little video that you might have missed in the original post. Extra credit for anyone who identifies the photograph in the background of my segment.
We've spent plenty of time discussing the possible combination of offensive linemen the Chicago Bears could be considering with the No. 29 overall pick of next week's draft. But what about the defensive line, where the Bears could use depth across the board and need at least one new starter to replace defensive tackle Tommie Harris?
For that reason, I thought it was interesting Thursday when Bears general manager Jerry Angelo revealed the team has done extensive background work on North Carolina defensive tackle Marvin Austin, a classic "three-technique" tackle who could give the Bears a significant interior playmaker.
As you might know, Austin was dismissed from the team last season because he was a central figure an NCAA investigation into improper contact with agents. Speaking Thursday at a pre-draft news conference, Angelo said Austin has "documented concerns" but that the Bears "have delved into those."
In fact, Angelo said, the two most important figures in the life of any Bears defensive lineman -- coach Lovie Smith and defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli -- visited Austin and "spent a goodly amount of time with him." So did area scout Mark Sadowski.
"We feel real good about how we feel about him and knowing him," Angelo said.
NFL teams don't typically hold NCAA violations against potential draft picks unless they learn about more significant issues in the course of background checks. Angelo seemingly doesn't have any concerns about Austin, but in this period of strategic misinformation, he might simply be trying to convince a team who is genuinely interested to initiate trade talks for the No. 29 pick.
In an Insider piece earlier this week, Kevin Weidl of Scouts Inc. notes that Austin seems to be gaining some traction
as a late-first round pick -- mostly because of a "steep talent dropoff" after the top 25 or so players. Weidl cautioned against elevating a player like Austin, but it will be interesting to see if the Bears see him as a true value there or a potential trade chip as the first round closes.
For that reason, I thought it was interesting Thursday when Bears general manager Jerry Angelo revealed the team has done extensive background work on North Carolina defensive tackle Marvin Austin, a classic "three-technique" tackle who could give the Bears a significant interior playmaker.
As you might know, Austin was dismissed from the team last season because he was a central figure an NCAA investigation into improper contact with agents. Speaking Thursday at a pre-draft news conference, Angelo said Austin has "documented concerns" but that the Bears "have delved into those."
In fact, Angelo said, the two most important figures in the life of any Bears defensive lineman -- coach Lovie Smith and defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli -- visited Austin and "spent a goodly amount of time with him." So did area scout Mark Sadowski.
"We feel real good about how we feel about him and knowing him," Angelo said.
NFL teams don't typically hold NCAA violations against potential draft picks unless they learn about more significant issues in the course of background checks. Angelo seemingly doesn't have any concerns about Austin, but in this period of strategic misinformation, he might simply be trying to convince a team who is genuinely interested to initiate trade talks for the No. 29 pick.
In an Insider piece earlier this week, Kevin Weidl of Scouts Inc. notes that Austin seems to be gaining some traction
as a late-first round pick -- mostly because of a "steep talent dropoff" after the top 25 or so players. Weidl cautioned against elevating a player like Austin, but it will be interesting to see if the Bears see him as a true value there or a potential trade chip as the first round closes.
» NFC Draft Watch: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
Each Thursday leading up to the NFL draft (April 28-30), the ESPN.com NFL blog network will take a division-by-division look at key aspects of the draft. Today's topic: draft rewind -- examining the past five drafts.
Chicago Bears
Best choice: My initial thought was to nominate receiver Johnny Knox, a fifth-round pick two years ago out of Division-II Abilene Christian. Knox has 96 receptions in two seasons and is as close to a No. 1 receiver as the Bears have. But the 2006 decision to draft kick returner Devin Hester in the second round was inspired. Hester has changed the game and has become one of the best returners in the history of football. He has also made steady improvement as a receiver after converting from cornerback. Hester it is.
Worst choice: The Bears made Central Michigan defensive end Dan Bazuin a second-round pick in 2007. He was taken No. 62 overall but never played a regular-season down for the team. A left knee injury ended his rookie season and a second operation on the knee led to his release in the summer of 2008. I'm not sure if the Bears could have projected the knee problems, but bidding farewell to a second-round pick after one year is problematic.
On the bubble: Chris Williams, drafted as the left tackle of the future in 2008, missed almost half of his rookie season because of a back injury and has started at three different positions in the ensuing two years. As of today, the Bears aren't saying where he will play in 2011. The position changes could merit credit for flexibility, or they could be grounds for criticism because the Bears haven't been able to lock him down at left tackle as they have hoped.
Detroit Lions
Best choice: If you had the option between a pass-rushing, playmaking defensive tackle and a freakishly skilled receiver, which would you take? I would go with the former, which is why I'm making defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh my top Lions choice over the past five years. Receiver Calvin Johnson is an elite player, but to me, Suh plays a more important position. I realize Suh wasn't exactly a surprise pick at No. 2 overall in 2010, but it's rare that a player taken at that spot lives up to the hype so quickly.
Worst choice: This discussion is limited to the past five years, so we can't nominate receiver Mike Williams (2005). Many of the Lions' now-discarded draft picks were selected with former coach Rod Marinelli's Tampa 2 defensive scheme in mind, so it's not surprising they would no longer be around. There is no smoking gun in this time period, so I'll go with receiver Derrick Williams, a third-round pick in 2009 who has failed as both a No. 3 receiver and a kick returner.
On the bubble: Quarterback Matthew Stafford, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2009 draft, has missed more games (19) than he's played (13) in the past two years. His three-game appearance in 2010 suggested improvement over his 20-interception rookie season, but like any player, Stafford must find a way to stay on the field or he will be a bust.
Green Bay Packers
Best choice: Trading back into the first round in 2009 to select linebacker Clay Matthews was an inspired move. And tight end Jermichael Finley, you might recall, was a low third-round pick in 2008. But in this case, I have to go with finding one of the top receivers in the game at the bottom of the second round of the 2006 draft. Greg Jennings was the No. 52 overall pick that year and not exactly a household name after his Western Michigan career. But he was productive from the moment he arrived in Green Bay and earned a well-deserved Pro Bowl berth last season.
Worst choice: Tennessee defensive lineman Justin Harrell had a history of injuries when the Packers made him the No. 16 overall pick in 2007. Not coincidentally, injuries have prevented Harrell from establishing any sort of career. He has played in 14 games over four seasons, felled by back and knee ailments, among others. Because of the value of his draft position, Harrell gets the nod over Louisville quarterback Brian Brohm, who bombed after the Packers took him in the second round in 2008.
On the bubble: The Packers don't have a player who fits neatly into this category, but on a relative scale I would go with guard Daryn Colledge, a second-round pick in 2006. Colledge has started all but three games over the past five years, making several position changes along the way, but the Packers never seem willing to commit to him for the long term. That trend continued last month, when they tendered him as a prospective restricted free agent but didn't seem interested (yet) in a multiyear contract. Is this the year they find someone to take over his left guard spot?
Minnesota Vikings
Best choice: Defensive end Ray Edwards has 29.5 sacks in his five-year career, including 16.5 in the past two season, some significant numbers for a player taken in the fourth round of the 2006 draft (No. 127 overall). But it's hard to get past the value the Vikings have gotten from receiver Percy Harvin, their first pick (No. 22 overall) in 2009. They put a substantial amount of pre-draft work into his background, and he has not been responsible for any off-field issue that has been publicized. In two seasons, moreover, Harvin has 131 receptions and has been a force as a kickoff returner as well. The Vikings didn't fully grasp Harvin's migraine history, but I'm not sure if many teams did at the time.
Worst choice: Safety Tyrell Johnson, whom the Vikings targeted and traded up to the No. 43 slot in 2008 to draft, has been a disappointment and is not guaranteed a starting job in 2011. But as far as impact on the organization, it's hard to look past the decision to trade into the second round of the 2006 draft and select quarterback Tarvaris Jackson. There is no doubt Jackson had some physical skills to get excited about. But ultimately, that decision -- along with former coach Brad Childress' faith in his future development -- set back the franchise and left it in desperation mode this spring.
On the bubble: Right tackle Phil Loadholt was the No. 54 overall pick in 2009 and has started 31 of a possible 32 games since. But is that because he deserves to be an established starter in the NFL, or was he simply the Vikings' best option? There are mixed opinions about Loadholt's performance over that stretch, and it's not clear if the Vikings' new coaching staff considers him an unquestioned starter moving forward.
Each Thursday leading up to the NFL draft (April 28-30), the ESPN.com NFL blog network will take a division-by-division look at key aspects of the draft. Today's topic: draft rewind -- examining the past five drafts.
Chicago Bears
Best choice: My initial thought was to nominate receiver Johnny Knox, a fifth-round pick two years ago out of Division-II Abilene Christian. Knox has 96 receptions in two seasons and is as close to a No. 1 receiver as the Bears have. But the 2006 decision to draft kick returner Devin Hester in the second round was inspired. Hester has changed the game and has become one of the best returners in the history of football. He has also made steady improvement as a receiver after converting from cornerback. Hester it is.
Worst choice: The Bears made Central Michigan defensive end Dan Bazuin a second-round pick in 2007. He was taken No. 62 overall but never played a regular-season down for the team. A left knee injury ended his rookie season and a second operation on the knee led to his release in the summer of 2008. I'm not sure if the Bears could have projected the knee problems, but bidding farewell to a second-round pick after one year is problematic.
On the bubble: Chris Williams, drafted as the left tackle of the future in 2008, missed almost half of his rookie season because of a back injury and has started at three different positions in the ensuing two years. As of today, the Bears aren't saying where he will play in 2011. The position changes could merit credit for flexibility, or they could be grounds for criticism because the Bears haven't been able to lock him down at left tackle as they have hoped.
Detroit Lions
Best choice: If you had the option between a pass-rushing, playmaking defensive tackle and a freakishly skilled receiver, which would you take? I would go with the former, which is why I'm making defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh my top Lions choice over the past five years. Receiver Calvin Johnson is an elite player, but to me, Suh plays a more important position. I realize Suh wasn't exactly a surprise pick at No. 2 overall in 2010, but it's rare that a player taken at that spot lives up to the hype so quickly.
Worst choice: This discussion is limited to the past five years, so we can't nominate receiver Mike Williams (2005). Many of the Lions' now-discarded draft picks were selected with former coach Rod Marinelli's Tampa 2 defensive scheme in mind, so it's not surprising they would no longer be around. There is no smoking gun in this time period, so I'll go with receiver Derrick Williams, a third-round pick in 2009 who has failed as both a No. 3 receiver and a kick returner.
On the bubble: Quarterback Matthew Stafford, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2009 draft, has missed more games (19) than he's played (13) in the past two years. His three-game appearance in 2010 suggested improvement over his 20-interception rookie season, but like any player, Stafford must find a way to stay on the field or he will be a bust.
Green Bay Packers
Best choice: Trading back into the first round in 2009 to select linebacker Clay Matthews was an inspired move. And tight end Jermichael Finley, you might recall, was a low third-round pick in 2008. But in this case, I have to go with finding one of the top receivers in the game at the bottom of the second round of the 2006 draft. Greg Jennings was the No. 52 overall pick that year and not exactly a household name after his Western Michigan career. But he was productive from the moment he arrived in Green Bay and earned a well-deserved Pro Bowl berth last season.
Worst choice: Tennessee defensive lineman Justin Harrell had a history of injuries when the Packers made him the No. 16 overall pick in 2007. Not coincidentally, injuries have prevented Harrell from establishing any sort of career. He has played in 14 games over four seasons, felled by back and knee ailments, among others. Because of the value of his draft position, Harrell gets the nod over Louisville quarterback Brian Brohm, who bombed after the Packers took him in the second round in 2008.
On the bubble: The Packers don't have a player who fits neatly into this category, but on a relative scale I would go with guard Daryn Colledge, a second-round pick in 2006. Colledge has started all but three games over the past five years, making several position changes along the way, but the Packers never seem willing to commit to him for the long term. That trend continued last month, when they tendered him as a prospective restricted free agent but didn't seem interested (yet) in a multiyear contract. Is this the year they find someone to take over his left guard spot?
Minnesota Vikings
Best choice: Defensive end Ray Edwards has 29.5 sacks in his five-year career, including 16.5 in the past two season, some significant numbers for a player taken in the fourth round of the 2006 draft (No. 127 overall). But it's hard to get past the value the Vikings have gotten from receiver Percy Harvin, their first pick (No. 22 overall) in 2009. They put a substantial amount of pre-draft work into his background, and he has not been responsible for any off-field issue that has been publicized. In two seasons, moreover, Harvin has 131 receptions and has been a force as a kickoff returner as well. The Vikings didn't fully grasp Harvin's migraine history, but I'm not sure if many teams did at the time.
Worst choice: Safety Tyrell Johnson, whom the Vikings targeted and traded up to the No. 43 slot in 2008 to draft, has been a disappointment and is not guaranteed a starting job in 2011. But as far as impact on the organization, it's hard to look past the decision to trade into the second round of the 2006 draft and select quarterback Tarvaris Jackson. There is no doubt Jackson had some physical skills to get excited about. But ultimately, that decision -- along with former coach Brad Childress' faith in his future development -- set back the franchise and left it in desperation mode this spring.
On the bubble: Right tackle Phil Loadholt was the No. 54 overall pick in 2009 and has started 31 of a possible 32 games since. But is that because he deserves to be an established starter in the NFL, or was he simply the Vikings' best option? There are mixed opinions about Loadholt's performance over that stretch, and it's not clear if the Vikings' new coaching staff considers him an unquestioned starter moving forward.
Epicenter of Humanity: Coach of the Year
January, 19, 2011
1/19/11
2:05
PM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
Andrew Weber/US PresswireMike McCarthy and Lovie Smith both have legitimate cases to be awarded Coach of the Year.Mike & Mike in the Morning
Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher previews the NFC Championship Game matchup with the Packers. Urlacher says the Bears feel better prepared to play Green Bay having just faced it a few weeks ago. Listen 
Michael Mann (Rib Lake, WI)
Everyone talks about the play calling and play designs of Mike Martz but what about his counterpart in Green Bay. Why doesn't McCarthy get this same type of recognition on arguably one of the best offenses in the league?
Kevin Seifert (2:27 PM)
I think he has. I know I've tried to point out some of the creative things he's done. It's pretty impressive when a team can run the wishbone just as easily as a five WR set.
Mike McCarthy (Green Bay, WI)
Do I have a legitimate case for coach of the year award? I mean look what I did with guys off of the street!
Kevin Seifert (2:33 PM)
You do. Although, again, those awards are based on the regular season only. So getting to the NFC Championship Game isn't counted.
Lovie Smith (Chicago)
You aren't even the COY in your own division there, Mike.
Kevin Seifert (2:49 PM)
Interesting. This much is true. Everyone thought the Packers would be good. No one thought the Bears would be.
Mike McCarthy (Green Bay)
Take [Brian] Urlacher, [Greg] Olsen, [Matt] Forte, and 12 other people away from Lovie Smith and see if he can make the playoffs.
Kevin Seifert (2:52 PM)
And we're off...
This topic is perfect: A simple question with an entirely gray answer. You could make legitimate cases for both men. Assuming you want in on the debate, let me get you started with a few further thoughts of my own.
More Coverage
• McCarthy: The Packers were a trendy preseason pick to advance to this exact spot -- before losing more than 200 player starts due to injuries. McCarthy navigated the Packers through the loss of two offensive stars -- tailback Ryan Grant and tight end Jermichael Finley -- along with half of their starting linebackers. A total of 15 players ended up on injured reserve. The Packers nearly upset the New England Patriots in Week 15 behind backup quarterback Matt Flynn and have since won four consecutive games. For more details on this issue, check out Bill Barnwell's Insider piece
on the health differences between the Packers and Bears this season.
Remember, the official NFL Coach of the Year award, as determined by the Associated Press, is based purely on regular-season performance. Here on the NFC North blog, we're not bound by those constraints. So let your thoughts be known in the comment section below. This isn't really an official "Have at It," but I might post a few of your responses later this week. Now get to it.
Rapid Reaction: Bears 31, Eagles 26
November, 28, 2010
11/28/10
7:24
PM ET
By Matt Mosley | ESPN.com
CHICAGO -- Some quick thoughts on the Philadelphia Eagles' 31-26 loss to the Chicago Bears:
What it means: The Eagles fell to 7-4 with this loss and are now tied with the New York Giants atop the NFC East. The Bears had arrived at 7-3 with an easy schedule, but they were impressive in beating the Eagles. Coach Andy Reid attempted to get back in the game by kicking field goals in the fourth quarter, but it only put off the inevitable. The Bears served notice that they could be a force in the NFC.
How did this happen? The Eagles were getting a lot of pressure on Bears quarterback Jay Cutler early, but offensive coordinator Mike Martz did a nice job of changing his approach. Cutler started taking three-step drops and delivering short passes to his running backs and receivers. The Eagles did a pitiful job of tackling. They made Earl Bennett look like a Pro Bowl player as he broke tackles and destroyed Philadelphia in the red zone. And for the first time this season, the Eagles allowed a running back to surpass 100 yards. Bears running back Matt Forte had a 61-yard gain early in the game and he continued to gash the Eagles throughout the game.
The play that changed everything: Trailing 14-13, the Eagles drove deep into Bears territory in the second quarter. But quarterback Michael Vick threw a lazy pass that was tipped by Tommie Harris and intercepted by Chris Harris. The Bears stole all the momentum on that play and never really looked back. The Bears scored at the end of the first half to take a 21-13 lead.
What's next: The Eagles have to immediately get ready for a Thursday home game against the Houston Texans. You can overcome this loss, but dropping a game to the Texans could be devastating. It felt like the Eagles were standing around waiting for Vick to do something in this game. But the Bears' defense proved that Vick is not invincible. He actually finished 29 of 44 for 333 yards, two touchdowns and the one interception. But a lot of those yards came after the game had been decided. And the interception changed everything. The Bears sacked Vick four times and caused him to run for his life. It was an excellent game plan by Bears defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli.
What it means: The Eagles fell to 7-4 with this loss and are now tied with the New York Giants atop the NFC East. The Bears had arrived at 7-3 with an easy schedule, but they were impressive in beating the Eagles. Coach Andy Reid attempted to get back in the game by kicking field goals in the fourth quarter, but it only put off the inevitable. The Bears served notice that they could be a force in the NFC.
How did this happen? The Eagles were getting a lot of pressure on Bears quarterback Jay Cutler early, but offensive coordinator Mike Martz did a nice job of changing his approach. Cutler started taking three-step drops and delivering short passes to his running backs and receivers. The Eagles did a pitiful job of tackling. They made Earl Bennett look like a Pro Bowl player as he broke tackles and destroyed Philadelphia in the red zone. And for the first time this season, the Eagles allowed a running back to surpass 100 yards. Bears running back Matt Forte had a 61-yard gain early in the game and he continued to gash the Eagles throughout the game.
The play that changed everything: Trailing 14-13, the Eagles drove deep into Bears territory in the second quarter. But quarterback Michael Vick threw a lazy pass that was tipped by Tommie Harris and intercepted by Chris Harris. The Bears stole all the momentum on that play and never really looked back. The Bears scored at the end of the first half to take a 21-13 lead.
What's next: The Eagles have to immediately get ready for a Thursday home game against the Houston Texans. You can overcome this loss, but dropping a game to the Texans could be devastating. It felt like the Eagles were standing around waiting for Vick to do something in this game. But the Bears' defense proved that Vick is not invincible. He actually finished 29 of 44 for 333 yards, two touchdowns and the one interception. But a lot of those yards came after the game had been decided. And the interception changed everything. The Bears sacked Vick four times and caused him to run for his life. It was an excellent game plan by Bears defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli.
How I See It: NFC North Stock Watch
November, 24, 2010
11/24/10
10:00
AM ET
By
Kevin Seifert | ESPN.com
» NFC Stock Watch: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
FALLING
1. Tension in Minnesota: More than anything, the firing of coach Brad Childress relieved the daily updates we have received about his relationship with players and his stature within the organization. The Vikings were a tense, irritable and clearly distracted team from the start of training camp. That doesn't provide an excuse for why they are 3-7, but it's certainly part of the explanation. Interim coach Leslie Frazier will have to walk the line between easing up on players while also establishing an appropriate sense of urgency.
2. Jahvid Best, Detroit Lions tailback: Something doesn't add up. Best put his explosive wares on display in Week 2, accumulating 232 all-purpose yards against the Philadelphia Eagles. Since then, however, his production has dipped dramatically. Over the past two games, Best has touched the ball 28 times and gained 56 yards. He is known to be suffering from multiple turf toe injuries, but he hasn't missed a game. If the injuries were the sole explanation for his struggles, you would assume the Lions would have given him a rest by now. They haven't. So what does that tell us? Either the injuries aren't as debilitating as they appear, and his low production is due to other factors, or the Lions have been criminally negligent with one of their top assets.
3. Brett Favre, Minnesota Vikings quarterback: Now that his presumed nemesis has been vanquished, Favre has one less excuse for playing poorly over the season's final six games. He's enmeshed in one of the worst stretches of his career, having posted a passer rating below 52 in three of his past five games, and now has a limited engagement to resurrect his reputation in what you would assume is the final year of his career. Don't underestimate how important legacy is to him. With his full complement of receivers and presumably more license within the offense, Favre should have just about everything he thinks he needs to play better.
RISING
1. Dom Capers, Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator: After limiting opponents to 10 points combined over the past three games, the Packers are tied for the NFL low in points allowed per game. Capers' scheming and personnel adjustments have played a big role. It's amazing, for example, to watch how many one-on-one situations Capers gets linebacker Clay Matthews into over the course of a game. You know that opponents would prefer a double-team if they could figure out where he is going to line up. Normally, this type of coaching job is what gets your name on the short list of head-coaching candidates the following season. Capers, 60, has already had two shots as a head coach and might not get a third. But he's still had one of the best seasons of any assistant coach this season.
2. Rod Marinelli, Chicago Bears defensive coordinator: It's hard to mention Capers without noting that Marinelli, in his first-ever stint as a coordinator, has his defense playing just as well. Marinelli has taken a different tack, using his base 4-3 scheme for about 70 percent of downs and occasionally mixing in blitzes to surprise opponents. Players have raved about the motivational nuggets he has used, and you can't argue with the results. Like the Packers, the Bears are giving up an average of 14.6 points per game. It's nice to see Marinelli resurrect his career and reputation following his 0-16 debacle with the Lions in 2008.
3. Brian Urlacher, Chicago Bears middle linebacker: An important milestone eluded us during the chaos of the past week. Urlacher's five tackles last Thursday against the Miami Dolphins lifted him ahead of Mike Singletary and into first place on the Bears' all-time list of tackles. His total currently stands at 1,484. Tackles are an unofficial statistic and subject to coach's review, but if nothing else, the accomplishment puts Urlacher in the historical context of two Hall of Fame linebackers, Singletary and Dick Butkus, among others. And he's not done yet.
FALLING
1. Tension in Minnesota: More than anything, the firing of coach Brad Childress relieved the daily updates we have received about his relationship with players and his stature within the organization. The Vikings were a tense, irritable and clearly distracted team from the start of training camp. That doesn't provide an excuse for why they are 3-7, but it's certainly part of the explanation. Interim coach Leslie Frazier will have to walk the line between easing up on players while also establishing an appropriate sense of urgency.
2. Jahvid Best, Detroit Lions tailback: Something doesn't add up. Best put his explosive wares on display in Week 2, accumulating 232 all-purpose yards against the Philadelphia Eagles. Since then, however, his production has dipped dramatically. Over the past two games, Best has touched the ball 28 times and gained 56 yards. He is known to be suffering from multiple turf toe injuries, but he hasn't missed a game. If the injuries were the sole explanation for his struggles, you would assume the Lions would have given him a rest by now. They haven't. So what does that tell us? Either the injuries aren't as debilitating as they appear, and his low production is due to other factors, or the Lions have been criminally negligent with one of their top assets.
3. Brett Favre, Minnesota Vikings quarterback: Now that his presumed nemesis has been vanquished, Favre has one less excuse for playing poorly over the season's final six games. He's enmeshed in one of the worst stretches of his career, having posted a passer rating below 52 in three of his past five games, and now has a limited engagement to resurrect his reputation in what you would assume is the final year of his career. Don't underestimate how important legacy is to him. With his full complement of receivers and presumably more license within the offense, Favre should have just about everything he thinks he needs to play better.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Evan PinkusDom Capers' defense is holding opponents to an average of 14.6 points per game.
AP Photo/Evan PinkusDom Capers' defense is holding opponents to an average of 14.6 points per game.1. Dom Capers, Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator: After limiting opponents to 10 points combined over the past three games, the Packers are tied for the NFL low in points allowed per game. Capers' scheming and personnel adjustments have played a big role. It's amazing, for example, to watch how many one-on-one situations Capers gets linebacker Clay Matthews into over the course of a game. You know that opponents would prefer a double-team if they could figure out where he is going to line up. Normally, this type of coaching job is what gets your name on the short list of head-coaching candidates the following season. Capers, 60, has already had two shots as a head coach and might not get a third. But he's still had one of the best seasons of any assistant coach this season.
2. Rod Marinelli, Chicago Bears defensive coordinator: It's hard to mention Capers without noting that Marinelli, in his first-ever stint as a coordinator, has his defense playing just as well. Marinelli has taken a different tack, using his base 4-3 scheme for about 70 percent of downs and occasionally mixing in blitzes to surprise opponents. Players have raved about the motivational nuggets he has used, and you can't argue with the results. Like the Packers, the Bears are giving up an average of 14.6 points per game. It's nice to see Marinelli resurrect his career and reputation following his 0-16 debacle with the Lions in 2008.
3. Brian Urlacher, Chicago Bears middle linebacker: An important milestone eluded us during the chaos of the past week. Urlacher's five tackles last Thursday against the Miami Dolphins lifted him ahead of Mike Singletary and into first place on the Bears' all-time list of tackles. His total currently stands at 1,484. Tackles are an unofficial statistic and subject to coach's review, but if nothing else, the accomplishment puts Urlacher in the historical context of two Hall of Fame linebackers, Singletary and Dick Butkus, among others. And he's not done yet.
Power Rankings: Preseason 21. This week: 19.
2010 schedule/results
Where they stand: The Bears have spent much of the season atop the NFC North thanks to a revitalized defense than has limited opponents to 16.6 points per game, the fourth-lowest mark in the NFL. The re-emergence of Devin Hester as a punt returner -- he has two touchdowns and leads all qualifiers with a 15.9-yard average -- has also bolstered the team. Hester and the Bears' defense have compensated for an offense that has transitioned slowly to Mike Martz's pass-happy scheme. But at the season's midpoint, the Bears are the only NFC North team with an undefeated division record (2-0), an important head start in potential tiebreakers. They've positioned themselves for a run at the division title, which at this point is all they could have hoped for.
Falling: Martz hasn't adjusted well to the Bears' existing personnel, and it's still not clear if quarterback Jay Cutler is capable of executing his offense as originally contemplated. The Bears have started five different personnel groupings on their offensive line and currently have only one player -- center Olin Kreutz -- in his Week 1 position. Martz needed to anticipate that deficiency and adjust accordingly. Instead, Bears quarterbacks have been sacked a league-high 32 times, due in equal parts to the line and the deep-drop passes Martz has insisted upon. Cutler could have helped himself by releasing the ball quicker, but his instincts seem to tell him to hold the ball. His four-interception game against the Washington Redskins was a reminder of how reckless he can be when flustered.
Rising: In his first-ever stint as a defensive coordinator, Rod Marinelli has taken the Bears back to their roots. The Bears are playing a near-pure version of their Tampa 2 scheme, utilizing the addition of defensive end Julius Peppers to limit his blitz calls and devote more players to coverage. According to ESPN Stats & Information, Marinelli has blitzed on less than a third of opponents' pass plays. Last season, the Bears approached 50 percent. Peppers has only two sacks, but he's also forced two fumbles and drawn substantial attention from opponents. All told, the Bears are following the pattern they set in their mid-2000's prime. They are using their front four to control the point of attack, leaving their back seven to make big plays. The Bears have 20 takeaways, the second-highest total in the NFL.
Midseason MVP: Peppers has disappointed fantasy owners but few others. His impact on this defense, and its resulting ascendance in NFL rankings, is undeniable.
Outlook: As long as their defense continues to force turnovers and perform well on third downs, the Bears should be competitive in every game they play this season. The prospect of continuity on the offensive line, along with the promise of a more balanced offense, also raises optimism. But if they want to win this division, the Bears at some point must start protecting Cutler -- and he must throw the ball effectively and consistently. To put it kindly, that would require substantial adjustments from both Martz and Cutler.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/David DupreyJulius Peppers has revitalized his career in Chicago.
AP Photo/David DupreyJulius Peppers has revitalized his career in Chicago.Where they stand: The Bears have spent much of the season atop the NFC North thanks to a revitalized defense than has limited opponents to 16.6 points per game, the fourth-lowest mark in the NFL. The re-emergence of Devin Hester as a punt returner -- he has two touchdowns and leads all qualifiers with a 15.9-yard average -- has also bolstered the team. Hester and the Bears' defense have compensated for an offense that has transitioned slowly to Mike Martz's pass-happy scheme. But at the season's midpoint, the Bears are the only NFC North team with an undefeated division record (2-0), an important head start in potential tiebreakers. They've positioned themselves for a run at the division title, which at this point is all they could have hoped for.
Falling: Martz hasn't adjusted well to the Bears' existing personnel, and it's still not clear if quarterback Jay Cutler is capable of executing his offense as originally contemplated. The Bears have started five different personnel groupings on their offensive line and currently have only one player -- center Olin Kreutz -- in his Week 1 position. Martz needed to anticipate that deficiency and adjust accordingly. Instead, Bears quarterbacks have been sacked a league-high 32 times, due in equal parts to the line and the deep-drop passes Martz has insisted upon. Cutler could have helped himself by releasing the ball quicker, but his instincts seem to tell him to hold the ball. His four-interception game against the Washington Redskins was a reminder of how reckless he can be when flustered.
Rising: In his first-ever stint as a defensive coordinator, Rod Marinelli has taken the Bears back to their roots. The Bears are playing a near-pure version of their Tampa 2 scheme, utilizing the addition of defensive end Julius Peppers to limit his blitz calls and devote more players to coverage. According to ESPN Stats & Information, Marinelli has blitzed on less than a third of opponents' pass plays. Last season, the Bears approached 50 percent. Peppers has only two sacks, but he's also forced two fumbles and drawn substantial attention from opponents. All told, the Bears are following the pattern they set in their mid-2000's prime. They are using their front four to control the point of attack, leaving their back seven to make big plays. The Bears have 20 takeaways, the second-highest total in the NFL.
Midseason MVP: Peppers has disappointed fantasy owners but few others. His impact on this defense, and its resulting ascendance in NFL rankings, is undeniable.
Outlook: As long as their defense continues to force turnovers and perform well on third downs, the Bears should be competitive in every game they play this season. The prospect of continuity on the offensive line, along with the promise of a more balanced offense, also raises optimism. But if they want to win this division, the Bears at some point must start protecting Cutler -- and he must throw the ball effectively and consistently. To put it kindly, that would require substantial adjustments from both Martz and Cutler.
Ikaika Alama-Francis a Fins name to watch
August, 30, 2010
8/30/10
10:28
AM ET
By Tim Graham | ESPN.com
The Miami Dolphins head into their final preseason week not entirely settled at linebacker.
Tony Sparano is moving his players around in hopes of finding the right mix. Inside linebackers Channing Crowder and Tim Dobbins have been battling injuries. So Sparano is trying outside linebacker Charlie Anderson on the inside.
An intriguing player to monitor is Ikaika Alama-Francis, a converted down lineman who didn't play high school football, has been mounting a summer drive to crack the starting lineup at outside linebacker.
After another solid preseason performance Friday night, Alama-Francis shared first-team reps with rookie Koa Misi at strongside outside linebacker in Sunday's practice. Misi still projects as the starter opposite Cameron Wake, but Alama-Francis has been a revelation.
"I love it, man," is what Alama-Francis told me at Dolphins camp three weeks ago.
Sparano has been steadily impressed with him at outside linebacker since training camp began. It's important for the Dolphins to find those types of players with Jason Taylor and Joey Porter signing elsewhere.
"He's a handful in the rush," Sparano said a week into camp. "He set the edge of the defense pretty well, strong guy and very, very smart."
When Sparano said that, Alama-Francis hadn't been an outside linebacker for long, just a handful of practices. But it wasn't the first time Alama-Francis had switched on a whim, and this change brought an opportunity to stick in the NFL after bombing out with the Detroit Lions.
Alama-Francis is the son of Joe Francis, who backed up Bart Starr for two seasons with the Green Bay Packers. But Alama-Francis didn't play organized football until his sophomore year at Hawaii. He was a basketball walk-on, but football coach June Jones convinced him to convert.
The Lions drafted Alama-Francis 58th overall in 2007. He played tackle and end under D-line specialist Rod Marinelli, but started only two games over two seasons. The Lions cut him at the end of last year's preseason. He remained unemployed until November, when the Dolphins signed him to play defensive end at 6-foot-5 and 290 pounds.
Then, with three offseason workouts to go before summer break, the Dolphins approached Alama-Francis about standing on two feet for the first time. No more springing out of a three-point stance. They wanted him to try outside linebacker.
Sparano and linebackers coach Bill Sheridan saw something in the way Alama-Francis moved for a player his size. Alama-Francis said he had "three good practices" to show he could handle the gig.
"That's not a lot," he said. "When they're throwing things at you to see how you'll react, you have to do the best you can with what's been given to you. But it was an opportunity, and I embraced it. I was thankful."
After those three OTA workouts, Sparano didn't view the move as experimental anymore. Alama-Francis is at about 275 pounds now.
"Moving from a different position, it's a total 180, dropping into coverage," Alama-Francis said. "When you're on the line, you're moving forward. When you're standing up, you see a lot more and you've got to be aware a lot more. Rushing the passer, coming off the edge and dropping into coverage, I'm excited about all that."
Tony Sparano is moving his players around in hopes of finding the right mix. Inside linebackers Channing Crowder and Tim Dobbins have been battling injuries. So Sparano is trying outside linebacker Charlie Anderson on the inside.
[+] Enlarge
Richard C. Lewis/Icon SMIIkaika Alama-Francis is making a run at one of the starting outside linebacker spots.
Richard C. Lewis/Icon SMIIkaika Alama-Francis is making a run at one of the starting outside linebacker spots.After another solid preseason performance Friday night, Alama-Francis shared first-team reps with rookie Koa Misi at strongside outside linebacker in Sunday's practice. Misi still projects as the starter opposite Cameron Wake, but Alama-Francis has been a revelation.
"I love it, man," is what Alama-Francis told me at Dolphins camp three weeks ago.
Sparano has been steadily impressed with him at outside linebacker since training camp began. It's important for the Dolphins to find those types of players with Jason Taylor and Joey Porter signing elsewhere.
"He's a handful in the rush," Sparano said a week into camp. "He set the edge of the defense pretty well, strong guy and very, very smart."
When Sparano said that, Alama-Francis hadn't been an outside linebacker for long, just a handful of practices. But it wasn't the first time Alama-Francis had switched on a whim, and this change brought an opportunity to stick in the NFL after bombing out with the Detroit Lions.
Alama-Francis is the son of Joe Francis, who backed up Bart Starr for two seasons with the Green Bay Packers. But Alama-Francis didn't play organized football until his sophomore year at Hawaii. He was a basketball walk-on, but football coach June Jones convinced him to convert.
The Lions drafted Alama-Francis 58th overall in 2007. He played tackle and end under D-line specialist Rod Marinelli, but started only two games over two seasons. The Lions cut him at the end of last year's preseason. He remained unemployed until November, when the Dolphins signed him to play defensive end at 6-foot-5 and 290 pounds.
Then, with three offseason workouts to go before summer break, the Dolphins approached Alama-Francis about standing on two feet for the first time. No more springing out of a three-point stance. They wanted him to try outside linebacker.
Sparano and linebackers coach Bill Sheridan saw something in the way Alama-Francis moved for a player his size. Alama-Francis said he had "three good practices" to show he could handle the gig.
"That's not a lot," he said. "When they're throwing things at you to see how you'll react, you have to do the best you can with what's been given to you. But it was an opportunity, and I embraced it. I was thankful."
After those three OTA workouts, Sparano didn't view the move as experimental anymore. Alama-Francis is at about 275 pounds now.
"Moving from a different position, it's a total 180, dropping into coverage," Alama-Francis said. "When you're on the line, you're moving forward. When you're standing up, you see a lot more and you've got to be aware a lot more. Rushing the passer, coming off the edge and dropping into coverage, I'm excited about all that."
A weeklong look at current or former players or coaches with Hall of Fame potential in the division.
Saints: Drew Brees, quarterback.
Claim to fame: He led the 2009 Saints to their first Super Bowl championship while throwing for 34 touchdowns and posting a career-best 109.6 passer rating. Brees threw for a career-best 5,069 yards in 2008. He has thrown for 30,646 yards in a nine-year career.
Case for enshrinement: Brees has been more than a quarterback for the Saints. Arriving as a free agent in 2006, Brees has helped New Orleans and the entire Gulf region rebound from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. Brees has taken an extremely active role in the community and has done just as much on the field.
He is the perfect quarterback for coach Sean Payton’s offense. Brees has made the Saints one of the most fun teams in the league to watch while putting up huge offensive numbers. With Brees, the Saints have reached heights the franchise never came close to before.
Case against enshrinement: This almost certainly will change in another few years, assuming Brees continues to play anything like he has the past few seasons. But, at this moment, Brees would not be a slam dunk for the Hall of Fame because he’s only spent eight seasons as a starter and his years in San Diego were very good, but not great.
A couple more years of big numbers and another Super Bowl title, or at least some more playoff victories, should put Brees over the top.
Bottom line: Barring major injury, Brees is well on his way to the Hall of Fame.
Buccaneers: Tony Dungy, former coach.
Claim to fame: He took over a disaster of a franchise in 1996 and turned the Bucs into a consistently respectable team for the first time in franchise history. Dungy went on to coach the Indianapolis Colts and won a Super Bowl.
Case for enshrinement: The knock on Dungy in Tampa was that he couldn’t win the big one and the Bucs had to turn to Jon Gruden to get them their Super Bowl victory. But Dungy was largely responsible for building that team and changing the entire football climate in Tampa Bay. Building around Derrick Brooks, Warren Sapp and John Lynch, Dungy took the defensive philosophy he learned in Pittsburgh and built the famed “Tampa 2’’ defense, which became a phenomenon around the league. He also built a lengthy coaching tree with Herm Edwards, Jim Caldwell, Lovie Smith, Rod Marinelli and Mike Tomlin going on to become head coaches.
Case against enshrinement: With all of the defensive talent he had in Tampa Bay and Peyton Manning in Indianapolis, Dungy only won one Super Bowl title.
Bottom line: If I’m voting at the time Dungy comes up for the Hall of Fame, he’s the first name on my ballot. Aside from his record on the field, Dungy brought all sorts of good things to every place he’s ever been. He won with class and did things the right way. He still does things the right way. There was a recent tragedy involving a family member of a former Dungy player. I wish I could tell you the story of how Dungy reached out, but I’m sworn to secrecy. Let’s just say it was a Hall of Fame move.
Panthers: Steve Smith, wide receiver.
Claim to fame: Smith has 574 career receptions for 8,330 yards and 50 touchdowns. With all sorts of injuries at running back, Smith put the 2005 Carolina offense on his back and carried the Panthers to the NFC Championship Game. That season, Smith had 103 catches for 1,563 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Case for enshrinement: He’s the best player in the history of the franchise. Initially expected to be nothing more than a kick returner, Smith made himself into one of the most dynamic receivers in the NFL.
His touchdown catch in double overtime in the divisional playoff round against St. Louis put the 2003 Panthers into the NFC Championship Game.
Case against enshrinement: It’s getting more difficult for receivers to get into the Hall of Fame as the NFL has evolved into more of a passing league. At the moment, Smith’s numbers aren’t even close to Hall of Fame material.
Smith’s also had some troubles. On three different occasions, he has had physical altercations with teammates. Playing in a small market with a franchise that’s never had back-to-back winning seasons doesn’t help either.
Bottom line: Let’s not count Smith out of the Hall of Fame race yet. He’s 31, but he really hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down. He’s going to miss some time in training camp as he recovers from a broken arm, but he should be ready for the start of the regular season.
With either Matt Moore or Jimmy Clausen taking over as the new starting quarterback, Smith’s numbers could suffer. But he remains Carolina’s only proven threat in the passing game. If he can play another four or five years at a high level and get his career yardage above 13,000, he could have a shot. Of course, it would only help if the Panthers can have a few more playoff seasons.
Falcons: Dan Reeves, former coach.
Claim to fame: He led Atlanta to a franchise-best 14-2 record in 1998 and the only Super Bowl berth in team history. Reeves also led the Broncos to three Super Bowls in four years.
Case for enshrinement: Reeves, who also played in the NFL, wasn’t the best head coach ever and he wasn’t the best player ever. But combine what he did as a player and a coach and you’ve got a pretty impressive résumé. Reeves was a very solid player for the Dallas Cowboys in the 1960s and early ‘70s. He primarily was a running back, but also played some quarterback and receiver. He threw a touchdown pass in the legendary "Ice Bowl." The Cowboys made the playoffs every year Reeves played for them. He became Denver’s head coach in 1981. In 12 seasons, Reeves led the Broncos to six playoff appearances, five division titles and three Super Bowls. He took the New York Giants to the playoffs in his first season with that team and took the Falcons to the Super Bowl in his second season with the team.
Case against enshrinement: Reeves’ coaching career was better than his playing career, and you can poke some holes in that coaching career. The strongest argument against Reeves is that he never won a Super Bowl with the Broncos, despite having John Elway in his prime. Despite his early success with the Giants and Falcons, Reeves wasn’t able to keep the level of play that high for very long with either team.
Bottom line: A very tough call because Reeves doesn’t have one overwhelming accomplishment going for him. If he just had been able to win one Super Bowl with Elway, the path would be much easier.
Saints: Drew Brees, quarterback.
Claim to fame: He led the 2009 Saints to their first Super Bowl championship while throwing for 34 touchdowns and posting a career-best 109.6 passer rating. Brees threw for a career-best 5,069 yards in 2008. He has thrown for 30,646 yards in a nine-year career.
Case for enshrinement: Brees has been more than a quarterback for the Saints. Arriving as a free agent in 2006, Brees has helped New Orleans and the entire Gulf region rebound from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. Brees has taken an extremely active role in the community and has done just as much on the field.
He is the perfect quarterback for coach Sean Payton’s offense. Brees has made the Saints one of the most fun teams in the league to watch while putting up huge offensive numbers. With Brees, the Saints have reached heights the franchise never came close to before.
Case against enshrinement: This almost certainly will change in another few years, assuming Brees continues to play anything like he has the past few seasons. But, at this moment, Brees would not be a slam dunk for the Hall of Fame because he’s only spent eight seasons as a starter and his years in San Diego were very good, but not great.
A couple more years of big numbers and another Super Bowl title, or at least some more playoff victories, should put Brees over the top.
Bottom line: Barring major injury, Brees is well on his way to the Hall of Fame.
[+] Enlarge
Andy Lyons/Allsport/Getty ImagesTony Dungy laid the foundation for a Super Bowl winner in Tampa.
Andy Lyons/Allsport/Getty ImagesTony Dungy laid the foundation for a Super Bowl winner in Tampa.Claim to fame: He took over a disaster of a franchise in 1996 and turned the Bucs into a consistently respectable team for the first time in franchise history. Dungy went on to coach the Indianapolis Colts and won a Super Bowl.
Case for enshrinement: The knock on Dungy in Tampa was that he couldn’t win the big one and the Bucs had to turn to Jon Gruden to get them their Super Bowl victory. But Dungy was largely responsible for building that team and changing the entire football climate in Tampa Bay. Building around Derrick Brooks, Warren Sapp and John Lynch, Dungy took the defensive philosophy he learned in Pittsburgh and built the famed “Tampa 2’’ defense, which became a phenomenon around the league. He also built a lengthy coaching tree with Herm Edwards, Jim Caldwell, Lovie Smith, Rod Marinelli and Mike Tomlin going on to become head coaches.
Case against enshrinement: With all of the defensive talent he had in Tampa Bay and Peyton Manning in Indianapolis, Dungy only won one Super Bowl title.
Bottom line: If I’m voting at the time Dungy comes up for the Hall of Fame, he’s the first name on my ballot. Aside from his record on the field, Dungy brought all sorts of good things to every place he’s ever been. He won with class and did things the right way. He still does things the right way. There was a recent tragedy involving a family member of a former Dungy player. I wish I could tell you the story of how Dungy reached out, but I’m sworn to secrecy. Let’s just say it was a Hall of Fame move.
Panthers: Steve Smith, wide receiver.
Claim to fame: Smith has 574 career receptions for 8,330 yards and 50 touchdowns. With all sorts of injuries at running back, Smith put the 2005 Carolina offense on his back and carried the Panthers to the NFC Championship Game. That season, Smith had 103 catches for 1,563 yards and 12 touchdowns.
[+] Enlarge
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesA few more postseason appearances could help solidify Steve Smith's Hall of Fame status.
Kevin C. Cox/Getty ImagesA few more postseason appearances could help solidify Steve Smith's Hall of Fame status.His touchdown catch in double overtime in the divisional playoff round against St. Louis put the 2003 Panthers into the NFC Championship Game.
Case against enshrinement: It’s getting more difficult for receivers to get into the Hall of Fame as the NFL has evolved into more of a passing league. At the moment, Smith’s numbers aren’t even close to Hall of Fame material.
Smith’s also had some troubles. On three different occasions, he has had physical altercations with teammates. Playing in a small market with a franchise that’s never had back-to-back winning seasons doesn’t help either.
Bottom line: Let’s not count Smith out of the Hall of Fame race yet. He’s 31, but he really hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down. He’s going to miss some time in training camp as he recovers from a broken arm, but he should be ready for the start of the regular season.
With either Matt Moore or Jimmy Clausen taking over as the new starting quarterback, Smith’s numbers could suffer. But he remains Carolina’s only proven threat in the passing game. If he can play another four or five years at a high level and get his career yardage above 13,000, he could have a shot. Of course, it would only help if the Panthers can have a few more playoff seasons.
Falcons: Dan Reeves, former coach.
Claim to fame: He led Atlanta to a franchise-best 14-2 record in 1998 and the only Super Bowl berth in team history. Reeves also led the Broncos to three Super Bowls in four years.
Case for enshrinement: Reeves, who also played in the NFL, wasn’t the best head coach ever and he wasn’t the best player ever. But combine what he did as a player and a coach and you’ve got a pretty impressive résumé. Reeves was a very solid player for the Dallas Cowboys in the 1960s and early ‘70s. He primarily was a running back, but also played some quarterback and receiver. He threw a touchdown pass in the legendary "Ice Bowl." The Cowboys made the playoffs every year Reeves played for them. He became Denver’s head coach in 1981. In 12 seasons, Reeves led the Broncos to six playoff appearances, five division titles and three Super Bowls. He took the New York Giants to the playoffs in his first season with that team and took the Falcons to the Super Bowl in his second season with the team.
Case against enshrinement: Reeves’ coaching career was better than his playing career, and you can poke some holes in that coaching career. The strongest argument against Reeves is that he never won a Super Bowl with the Broncos, despite having John Elway in his prime. Despite his early success with the Giants and Falcons, Reeves wasn’t able to keep the level of play that high for very long with either team.
Bottom line: A very tough call because Reeves doesn’t have one overwhelming accomplishment going for him. If he just had been able to win one Super Bowl with Elway, the path would be much easier.
The offseason is nearly over. NFL vacations are under way, and we're going to follow suit here on the NFC North blog next week. We've got a few things to get to first, and we'll start with a look at the road we've traveled over the past five months.
There are any number of ways we can examine it, but I'm going to place 10 key offseason decisions into two categories: "smart" and "questionable." (Very creative, I know.) The final tally was just a nice round number, but I do think we can safely say it will take at least 10 victories for any NFC North team to make the 2010 playoffs.
So let's get to it:
SMART DECISIONS
There are any number of ways we can examine it, but I'm going to place 10 key offseason decisions into two categories: "smart" and "questionable." (Very creative, I know.) The final tally was just a nice round number, but I do think we can safely say it will take at least 10 victories for any NFC North team to make the 2010 playoffs.
So let's get to it:
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Paul SancyaNate Burleson gives the Lions another threat to score through the passing game.
AP Photo/Paul SancyaNate Burleson gives the Lions another threat to score through the passing game.
- The Detroit Lions gave quarterback Matthew Stafford some tools. Receiver Nate Burleson, tight end Tony Scheffler, running back Jahvid Best are all independent playmakers who are threats to score anytime they touch the ball. New left guard Rob Sims should help stabilize the offensive line. From the outside, this infusion gives the Lions the beginnings of a personality. A number of questions remain on defense, but the Lions should be able to match the explosiveness of most opposing offenses. For the first time in several years, we at least have an idea of how the Lions plan to win games.
- In searching for a new offensive coordinator, the Chicago Bears did the best they could under the circumstances. Team president Ted Phillips has left little doubt that substantial improvement will be necessary this season for coach Lovie Smith to keep his job, an ultimatum that considerably limited the candidates for this job. Mike Martz has his faults, but he also has the ideal résumé for this situation: Experience, a scheme that has always scored points and a hit-the-ground sprinting mentality that should have the Bears improved from Week 1. Under its current circumstances, this team couldn't afford to take a chance on an unproven coordinator.
- The Green Bay Packers recognized their age and depth issues along the offensive line and took appropriate steps to remedy them. They re-signed tackles Chad Clifton and Mark Tauscher but have also identified successors for both. Coach Mike McCarthy said rookie Bryan Bulaga will continue practicing behind Clifton at left tackle, so far resisting the urge to insert him into the competition at left guard. Meanwhile, T.J. Lang will be focused on the right side behind Tauscher. The combination gives the Packers a layer of competence followed by a layer of depth, two dynamics that were lacking when they opened the 2009 season.
- The Minnesota Vikings played ball with quarterback Brett Favre. You might be tempted to ask if they had any other option, but we should still recognize the non-traditional approach Vikings coach Brad Childress openly took in dealing with his 40-year-old quarterback. Childress knows he has a much better chance to win the Super Bowl with Favre than without him, so he has given Favre the space to call his own shots. That freedom likely will include an excused absence from training camp. You might consider Childress hamstrung in this regard, but not every coach would openly admit to a separate set of standards among players. Had he pressured Favre at all, he would be looking at the likelihood of Tarvaris Jackson as his 2010 starter.
- NFC North teams recognized the division's substantive shift to the passing game and reacted accordingly. The Bears spent lavishly to sign pass-rusher Julius Peppers. Detroit coach Jim Schwartz was on the doorstep of defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch when the free-agent market opened, part of a massive overhaul of the Lions' defensive line. The Packers shifted B.J. Raji to nose tackle, the most natural position for him in a 3-4 scheme, in hopes of increasing their interior push on first and second downs. And the Vikings issued defensive end Ray Edwards a first-round tender as a restricted free agent, a move that ensured no one would sign him to an offer sheet.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Morry GashRookie Bryan Bulaga gives the Packers added depth along the offensive line.
AP Photo/Morry GashRookie Bryan Bulaga gives the Packers added depth along the offensive line.
- In focusing on their defensive line this offseason, the Lions left their linebacking and secondary exposed. I'm not yet convinced this was the wrong approach, and I'm glad the Lions didn't feel compelled to sign another layer of veteran "bridge" players who are either past their primes or never had one. But the bottom line is we can reasonably expect new, inexperienced starters at two linebacker spots, along with cornerback, nickelback and safety. The Lions have decided to take the plunge and trust their draft and development systems. It might work out, but there is measurable risk involved.
- The Bears wanted Perry Fewell to join them as defensive coordinator, but Fewell spurned them to join the New York Giants instead. Left with few other options, the Bears promoted defensive line coach Rod Marinelli to the job. Marinelli initially was hesitant about the job; he has never been an NFL coordinator and now will have a whole new set of responsibilities on game day. Marinelli's close relationship with Smith suggests more status quo and less tweaking. Are those the appropriate ingredients for a defense that has been slipping slowly for three years?
- Green Bay safety Atari Bigby, legitimately handed a tough situation by changes to the NFL's offseason rules, skipped the entire offseason -- including mandatory minicamp. Much of his absence came after the Packers traded up to draft safety Morgan Burnett in what should have been a clear message to Bigby. Burnett performed well enough in spring practices to create the possibility he could displace Bigby entirely with a strong training camp. If Bigby wanted out of Green Bay all along, he's done everything right. But if he envisions a long-term career with the Packers, he probably should have returned at least for minicamp.
- The Vikings allowed another offseason to pass without making an effort to identify a long-term starter to succeed Favre (someday). Sage Rosenfels appears on the way out. Jackson was issued a low tender and still received no interest on the restricted free-agent market. Rookie Joe Webb wasn't considered a quarterback prospect by most teams before the draft, including the Vikings. This wasn't the best year for drafting quarterbacks, and the Vikings were buried with the No. 30 overall pick. But if rookies are going to have as hard of a time making this team as the Vikings say they are, why not package a few picks to take a chance with Tim Tebow? Or use a second- or third-round pick to take a Jimmy Clausen or Colt McCoy? The only thing worse than missing is not taking a swing at all.
- For reasons that are not entirely clear, the Vikings and tailback Adrian Peterson appear to have developed a disconnect. Peterson trained on his own in Houston, was unable to break away from a hometown parade that conflicted with veteran minicamp and was the subject of an uncomfortable NFL Network video in which running backs coach Eric Bieniemy tore apart his 2009 performance. Does Peterson want a new contract? Has he suddenly transformed into a diva? Is he chafing at Bieniemy's tough love? No one has confirmed or denied anything, but the team needs to ensure it is on common ground with Peterson before training camp opens.
Warren Wimmer/Icon SMIRod Marinelli knows there is work to be done with Chicago's defense.[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Andy KingThe Vikings still haven't found a long-term replacement for Brett Favre.
AP Photo/Andy KingThe Vikings still haven't found a long-term replacement for Brett Favre.
Three of the four NFC North teams opened their organized team activities Wednesday. You've seen (and quite possibly skipped over) my reports from the Minnesota Vikings. Now let's catch up on the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers via media outlets that were in attendance.
Chicago Bears
Defensive tackle Marcus Harrison, a possible starter opposite Tommie Harris, revealed he lost more than 20 pounds during a recent week-long battle with tonsillitis. According to Jeff Dickerson of ESPNChicago.com, Harrison was limited in Wednesday's practice.
"Before I got sick, the offseason was going great," Harrison said. "I just got to get back used to it. I've been out for a long time, so man, my body just has to get used to it. I lost a lot of weight and stuff, so I just have to get it back.
"I know [defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli] is going to pick it up and make sure I get back to where I need to be. I'm not really concerned about that. I want to get in there and do it. I need to get in there and do it. But coach Marinelli is going to have me ready."
Meanwhile, if you're keeping track of the Bears' search for a left guard: Dickerson reports the Bears were using Josh Beekman strictly at center. That means Kevin Shaffer, Lance Louis and Johan Asiata rotated at left guard.
Green Bay Packers
For those wondering how the Packers plan to stack their cornerback depth, especially considering the shift of Will Blackmon to safety, coach Mike McCarthy heaped effusive praise on second-year player Brandon Underwood.
"I think Brandon Underwood would definitely be a candidate for most improved player from year one to year two so far from what I've seen," McCarthy said. "I think he's really matured in the weight room. He looks very good right now. I know we're only practicing in shorts and helmets, but I think Brandon Underwood is off to an outstanding spring so far. I've been very pleased with what he has shown on film."
Other candidates to back up the initial starting duo of Charles Woodson and Tramon Williams include Pat Lee and Jarrett Bush.
Veteran starter Al Harris, meanwhile, said he had shifted his knee rehabilitation from Florida to Green Bay. Harris wouldn't commit to a return date, according to Rob Demovsky of the Green Bay Press-Gazette, but said his recovery is on schedule.
"I don't want to give any predictions or anything like that, but I'm going to do my part," Harris said. "So if it's up to me, and it's up to me working to get out there, then I'll be out there. But we've got to go with the protocol and do what's right for the team and what's right for me. I'm going to do my part as far as preparing and working to get better."
Chicago Bears
Defensive tackle Marcus Harrison, a possible starter opposite Tommie Harris, revealed he lost more than 20 pounds during a recent week-long battle with tonsillitis. According to Jeff Dickerson of ESPNChicago.com, Harrison was limited in Wednesday's practice.
"Before I got sick, the offseason was going great," Harrison said. "I just got to get back used to it. I've been out for a long time, so man, my body just has to get used to it. I lost a lot of weight and stuff, so I just have to get it back.
"I know [defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli] is going to pick it up and make sure I get back to where I need to be. I'm not really concerned about that. I want to get in there and do it. I need to get in there and do it. But coach Marinelli is going to have me ready."
Meanwhile, if you're keeping track of the Bears' search for a left guard: Dickerson reports the Bears were using Josh Beekman strictly at center. That means Kevin Shaffer, Lance Louis and Johan Asiata rotated at left guard.
Green Bay Packers
For those wondering how the Packers plan to stack their cornerback depth, especially considering the shift of Will Blackmon to safety, coach Mike McCarthy heaped effusive praise on second-year player Brandon Underwood.
"I think Brandon Underwood would definitely be a candidate for most improved player from year one to year two so far from what I've seen," McCarthy said. "I think he's really matured in the weight room. He looks very good right now. I know we're only practicing in shorts and helmets, but I think Brandon Underwood is off to an outstanding spring so far. I've been very pleased with what he has shown on film."
Other candidates to back up the initial starting duo of Charles Woodson and Tramon Williams include Pat Lee and Jarrett Bush.
Veteran starter Al Harris, meanwhile, said he had shifted his knee rehabilitation from Florida to Green Bay. Harris wouldn't commit to a return date, according to Rob Demovsky of the Green Bay Press-Gazette, but said his recovery is on schedule.
"I don't want to give any predictions or anything like that, but I'm going to do my part," Harris said. "So if it's up to me, and it's up to me working to get out there, then I'll be out there. But we've got to go with the protocol and do what's right for the team and what's right for me. I'm going to do my part as far as preparing and working to get better."
