Matt Williamson

  (11:53 AM)

Hey everyone-MW here. Let's get this started early today.

Todd (Penn State)

Do you think Denver will trade Jay Cutler? Who do you think should be the most aggressive to acquire him?

Matt Williamson

  (11:56 AM)

Can't see how they possibly could trade him, but wow-it seems to be getting rather hairy in Denver right now. Not how you want to start out your new tenure as head coach. But-as a new head coach, McDaniels prob has more leeway with a rebuilding project. However, think about this: If you made EVERY NFL player a free agent and held a draft, how many players would get selected ahead of Cutler today? Maybe 10? 15? Young potenital stud QBs don't grow on trees. Of course, I can't say that I am real found of Cutler's lack of maturity or overall leadership traits right now and that his huge for someone at his position, but TBay and Det have to be beating down Denver's door.

Will (Albuquerque)

Please give us your best educated guess at what could be the biggest surprise of this years NFL draft.

Matt Williamson

  (11:57 AM)

How about Andre Brown-RB from NC St. Not a ton of college production due to injuries and some inconsistencies, but this guy might just be a big time 3rd round steal on DDay. Get him in your FF drafts. Great nose for the end zone. Runs hard. Real good speed and size. I like a lot.

John Tampa FL

With this situation with Denver and Jay Cutler not getting better what is the likely hood that he might get traded to Tampa

Matt Williamson

  (11:58 AM)

Mentioned TBay and they seem to be in a position where they need to make a splash-and they have a ton of cap room. I would much rather have Cutler than J Freeman-wouldn't they as well? Cutler for this years and next years first rounder?

Tim, St. Augustine FL

Hey Matt, Do you see the Ravens getting Torry Holt if the Rams release or trade him?

Matt Williamson

  (12:00 PM)

I suppose that they would be a decent candidate for Holt, who surely will be on the move. Not saying that Holt is soft or anything like that, but I just can't see him in a grind it out cold weather town. Played in a dome his entire career (like Marvin Harrison). Still, they need a WR, but Balt is also rather old with Mason as their #1 right now.

Kyle (milwaukee, wi

When its all said and done, is Cutler one of the greats?

Matt Williamson

  (12:02 PM)

Too early to say one way or another. What is the guy's W/L record? It isn't great. I know the Den D has been putrid, but he does get to play Oak and KC twice a year! Still, if you need a QB, I really don't think you can get better. Would want to spend a LOT of time with him though and really research what people think of the guy. Just seems so immature. But wow, he can sling it!

Jeff ( a cold Chicago,IL)

In my eyes i think Rex Grossman is better than Cutler. just checking if youre actually looking at these comments.

Matt Williamson

  (12:02 PM)

I don't see them all...but I saw that one! Keeping me on my toes, eh? Funny one.

Rob: Minneapolis

If Freeman slipped all the way to the 22nd pick, do you think The Vikes would possibly take him? Or do you think they are content with Sage for the next 3 years? Thanks.

Matt Williamson

  (12:03 PM)

Sage is just ANOTHER band aid on a gaping wound. Not saying that Freeman is the answer, but they need to stop baby stepping the issues at QB and go get someone! Rosenfels is an awful fit for the Vikes-far too many turnovers.

Mike(Akron)

So should we just re-name the Browns to the Cleveland Second string Jets? This reminds me of when the Broncos took the Browns awful defensive line. Who else from the Jets will Mangini and Kokinis be taking?

Matt Williamson

  (12:05 PM)

Yeah really. Its not like NYJ was a great team last year or anything. I am all for someone like Pioli, McDaniels or Rex Ryan raiding their old team, but those guys he is bringing in are just so ordinary on the field. I also understand bringing in "Your Guys" and changing the terrible losing culture in Cleveland, but come on already! Cleveland could be a very bad football team in 2009.

Brad (Ohio)

Chris Carr is visiting the Super Bowl Champs today, do you think he can be a good nickle corner as well as a good kick off returner? Steelers kick off returns last year were a joke

Matt Williamson

  (12:06 PM)

Their kickoff returners were simply awful. Signing Carr would make a lot of sense and he would only have to be the #4 CB. Still could draft yet another CB in round five or so, but it eliminates a decent DDay need. I am all for it.

Nick (Cincy)

Any idea where Orlando Pace might end up?

Matt Williamson

  (12:07 PM)

Quite a few teams could use him, but I would speculate that someone in his position is more likely to go to a contender. Philly? Minny?

Tim (Boise)

Will Chris Simms be the Broncos starter this season?

Matt Williamson

  (12:08 PM)

I don't think that would be the end of the world. That signing went under the radar for the most part, but it could be his job if this Cutler situation blows up any further. I think Simms can be a suitable QB in this league, but with that awful D, Marshall's possible suspension and a decline at the QB postion, Denver could be in for a VERY long season.

Dan (Near Washington DC)

Hey Matt, you touched on the likelihood of Holt going to Baltimore, but are the chances of the Philadelphia looking at him if the price is right?

Matt Williamson

  (12:09 PM)

Would think just about the same as Balt, but considering McNabb's situation, I think Philly is more in a win now mode and should be more aggressive to get someone like Holt. They have deep threats in Curtis and Jackson. Holt could move the chains.

Chris (Tampa)

Pace to Miami? Move Carey to Guard?

Matt Williamson

  (12:11 PM)

Perhaps. Already is the most expensive OL that I can remember though. How about NEng? That would be something they do...Probably not what you wanted to hear if you are a Phins' fan though! BTW, NE is loaded!

Mike (Akron)

No offense Matt, but saying that the Browns could be a very bad football team in 2009 is like saying the Steelers could be a very good football team.

Matt Williamson

  (12:11 PM)

Wise beyond your years Michael. Go Zips.

Doug (NY)

Is Mel Kiper's Cutler/Jeff George comparison on target? George could sling it too

Matt Williamson

  (12:13 PM)

Hadn't heard that, but J George really could sling it for sure. I am a HUGE believer in leadership/character from my QB-so this whole Cutler conversation does give me some pause. But I also don't question what I have seen on the field. Glimpses of greatness.

Mike (San Diego)

M-Dub, any idea what the Iggles might have up there sleeve? So far, this off-season hasn't gone the way I had hoped....Serenity Now!!!!!

Matt Williamson

  (12:14 PM)

I bet you are not enamored with it just yet. You should love the S Andrews signing though and I think that was one of the very best free agency moves to date. Just think. Short yardage. Run right!!! Didn't love the Sean Jones pickup. I think he is a bit overrated and I also don't think that they needed a SS type. Need more range at S.

Kyle (Avon, New York

Have you heard anything about the steelers getting close to signing joey galloway?

Matt Williamson

  (12:15 PM)

Haven't. But do know that they kicked the tires. Gotta wonder how his physical went, but if he got a clean bill of health, Galloway would be a fine signing for PGH. Guy can still fly and Garcia couldn't get him the ball deep like Ben can. Great Bridge WR from present guys to Sweed.

Joe (Detroit)

Assume that Cutler and the Broncos make up and he stays. What should Detroit do at #1 and #20?

Matt Williamson

  (12:17 PM)

Personally, I like Sanchez more than Stafford-I know that I am in minority-so my approach is going to be differant than most for sure. The guys I would consider at #1 are Curry, Crabtree (I know-ANOTHER WR), J Smith and Sanchez. However, I can live with Backus at LT and am not sold that he is much of a LG. Plus, Smith isn't much of a run blocker, which you know the new regime will stress. Curry is just SUCH a safe pick.

Jeff(chicago)

Since the Bears signed the biggest free agent in kevin jones,not,do you see them doing anything at all. I mean is this a pathetic offeseason for them or what?

Matt Williamson

  (12:17 PM)

Dreadful. Awful. They have some gaping holes on that roster.

Broncos Fans (Colorado)

What have we done to deserve this?

Matt Williamson

  (12:17 PM)

That is an excellent question

Steiny (NYC)

Who has made the most significant improvement so far in the offseason?

Matt Williamson

  (12:18 PM)

Probably your Giants or the Pats off the top of my head. I suppose the Jets are in the coversation. Who else?

The Wolf (Cleveland)

Since the Browns are pursuing defensive guys through free agency, do you think they might focus on offense with their two 2nd round picks?

Matt Williamson

  (12:19 PM)

They MUST find a pass rusher, so Orakpo could be very attractive with their first rounder. BUT-Braylon is a free agent after this season and their pass catchers are all of a sudden a mess. Crabtree? They just seem to have more holes/questions than ever.

John (Charlotte, NC)

Matt, With this draft, could the Patriots add to the foundation they have already built and continue their great run with 5 picks in the top 90 right now and the potential to add another 3rd round compensatory pick for losing Asante Samuel? Is their enough talent in this upcoming draft to keep this run going?

Matt Williamson

  (12:20 PM)

No question. They are built for the long haul. I really pump NEng's tires, but I have a ton of respect for how they handle personnel. Can afford to take a WR and/or OT very high and still attack the heck out of their D to rebuild. Wow.

Jake (Syracuse)

Matt, do you see the Jets drafting Vontae Davis if he falls to them in the 1st round?

Matt Williamson

  (12:21 PM)

Maybe. Rex Ryan loves Man to Man CBs. I could certainly see Jackson, the DE from LSU to act as his T Pryce. I just wrote a blog about NYJ's passing game-check it out-but that portion of their team is potentially dreadful.

Mike Akron

So you are of the opinion that Braylon is a lost cause and should be traded? No chance he returns back to 07 form? And if he does get traded, wouldn't you think trading to the eagles would be best? For a second, or a third?

Matt Williamson

  (12:22 PM)

Philly or NYG would make a ton of sense. Gotta think that there is no chance that he returns once he becomes a free agent.

Marc (Malden, MA)

I think the Pats will soon learn Shawn Springs can't play corner anymore and is better off as a safety. What do you think?

Matt Williamson

  (12:22 PM)

Maybe. But I see him as a excellent FS. Really liked that signing. Liked picking up Bodden too. Their secondary is now versatile, experienced and deep...just like BB likes it.

Mike (Boca Raton)

why did tampa bay give up a 2nd rounder for winslow? seems like a lot for an injury prone, non-blocking te known as a malcontent.

Matt Williamson

  (12:24 PM)

No question. That guy's body is so battered. Just think of all the wonderful post game comments from K2 and A Bryant after their horrible QB situation couldn't get them the ball. But-they needed to do something and he is an upgrade without question.

Mike (Boca Raton)

any thoughts on how the steelers and patriots appear to approach aging players differently but both organizations still find a way to consistently win?

Matt Williamson

  (12:25 PM)

Veyr true and they might be the top 2 organizations in the game right now. PGH is all about character and grooming from within. NEng loves bringing in the vets who know the game and have something to prove. Both do it extremely well. Great coaching/decision making with personnel. Also, having top notch QBs makes everything flow just a little smoother.

Alex (Los Angeles) [via mobile]

hi matt, im a huge fan. what do you think the chances are for the rams to win the NFC west?

Matt Williamson

  (12:26 PM)

Not good! Right now, I would put them at #4 in that division without any hesitation. They have a few pieces and I really liked inking J Brown, but I don't like either OT, they need at least one more WR, maybe a TE, a QB of the future and a backup RB....that is just for the O! The D might actually be in worse shape.

Ryan (San Diego)

Chargers signed LB Kevin Burnett yesterday. What are your thoughts on him and also LT's new deal?

Matt Williamson

  (12:27 PM)

Keeping LT in town seems like the best move for both player and team. Still, I don't think he has a whole lot left. Without a 2nd round pick, I thought it was important to sign a RT, ILB or SS for SD. They got a suitable ILB who is at his best on passing downs. Has some versatility to his game. Not a true inside thumper though.

kelly ohio

matt, will the colts take a wr with there 1st pick

Matt Williamson

  (12:28 PM)

I would bet on it. Not sure who it will be, but history surely has shown us that Polian uses first round picks on weapons for Peyton-Marvin, Wayne, Gonzo, Dallas C, Addai, Edge. Not a coincidence.

Tim (Boise)

Bolden plays for __________?

Matt Williamson

  (12:29 PM)

A few weeks ago I would have said Philly or NYG. Now, it just seems like he will return to Zona. Warner is pushing so hard.

Greg Hoboeken, NJ

do you see the cardinals trying to pick up Torry Holt if he is released? this will give them a good second to Fitz and the ability to trade boldin to get a few draft picks from say the eagles.

Matt Williamson

  (12:30 PM)

Wouldn't be a terrible pickup for sure. Not sure how much Holt has left-and I would much rather have Boldin. But all things considered and getting those picks, it could make the Cards a better-and more well rounded-football team.

Todd Who knows

Do the Bucs still have a chance?

Matt Williamson

  (12:31 PM)

Tough division. I really like their running game and if they don't implode, K2 and AB could be a dangerous pair of pass catchers. But-there are problems on D for sure, new head coach could suffer some growing pains and of course the QB situation is a mess. They look like a 6 win team to me right now.

Andy (Ann Arbor, MI)

Ideal scenario: DET signs Pace, trades the 20th pick for Jay Cutler, takes Curry #1, and Lauranitis #33. Is there's a chance in heck that happens?

Matt Williamson

  (12:33 PM)

Wow. Not sure how that would affect their cap situation, but it also doesn't seem ALL that far fetched. Do you really need 2 rookie LBs with the wealth of other needs? Maybe Curry and a DLinemen. Would probably have to give up more than just #20 for Cutler-esp with TBay having an earlier pick in round one.

Todd Preseason CRAZY

DO YOU SEE THE BUCS BRINGING IN PACE?

Matt Williamson

  (12:33 PM)

No. They like Penn, as they should. Pace could play RT, but Trueblood isnt a liability. OL is the least of TBay's problems and I give Gruden and company a lot of credit for really attacking the OL through the draft in recent years.

Tom (Seattle)

Saw you mentioned Minny and Philly. How close is Seattle to be mentioned as a contender? Was last year a fluke? Do they take Crabtree? Thanks, Matt.

Matt Williamson

  (12:35 PM)

I doubt they take Crabtree after signing Housh. They had a TON of injuries last year and while I don't see one massive need for Sea, they could still use a lot. I really don't like their RBs for one thing. At least one more OLinemen is needed-and I would not bash them for taking someone like Monroe in round one. I keep coming back to Raji though with that first rounder. Ruskell has a long history of using his first rounders on D players from big programs. BC isn't exactly USC, but it pretty much qualifies. There isn't a DB worth taking with that pick.

Delvin OHIO

Can the bengals get Pace at tackle postion to help their young OL?

Matt Williamson

  (12:36 PM)

O Pace is an Ohio guy. Not a bad move. Short term fix though. But still, it would allow Cincy to be more aggressive at other positions on DDay. They really need a OC.

Alexander (Twin Cities)

To answer your question, the Cowboys have improved the most. We released TO (team obliterater)

Matt Williamson

  (12:36 PM)

Nice

Rob ( Cleveland)

Any Trade interest in Derek Anderson after the browns pay his Bonus?

Matt Williamson

  (12:37 PM)

Probably, but I am not much of a fan. When things are right, he has shown that he can be quite good. But, I just don't see him being able to improvise and when the going gets tough, he seems to crumble.

Jeff (Pittsburgh)

how many games in will T.O. and Trent Edwards have their first of many fallouts

Matt Williamson

  (12:38 PM)

Four or Five. Seems like such a bad fit on some levels. Their Head Coach might be the most conservative in the league. Their QBs might be the most cerebral. Still, he needed a team and the Bills needed a big pass catcher. Evans should be happy.

Can't Sleep at Night (Ohio)

I don't get it. I've been a Browns fan since I knew what a football was, but I still can't figure out Mangenius' plan with the Browns. If you can offer anything to help I would greatly appreciate it.

Matt Williamson

  (12:39 PM)

Seems like he is breaking down everything that Savage did well. I see moving K2 and maybe Edwards, but someone needs to catch the ball! Perplexing.

Craig (Green Bay, WI)

Who do you see the Packers going after in the draft or FA to complete their new 3-4 defense?

Matt Williamson

  (12:40 PM)

First off, I hate that move to a 3-4. I feel obligated to write that in every chat that I do. They still need OT help, but other than that, ANYWHERE on the front 7 needs to be addressed. It won't be a ILB since they have Hawk and Barnett, but I don't see either (esp Hawk) as a good fit there in this new scheme.

Greg (Pitts)

Matt - Please let Mr. Sleep it's only 3 more years and counting until the new browns coach is introduced.

Matt Williamson

  (12:41 PM)

I will take the Under on that bet

Andy (Rochester, NY)

Is there any truth to the rumors of Jason Peters to Philly?

Matt Williamson

  (12:42 PM)

Had not heard that, but is Buff just going to get rid of their entire starting OL? Peters had a very rough year, but I still think there are not all that many LTs that I would rather have going forward.

Josh (NYC)

Why haven't the Jets gotten involved in trying to bring Cutler to NY?

Matt Williamson

  (12:42 PM)

They seem to have faith in Clemens and Ratliff. Still, I would offer that first for Cutler in a heartbeat.

Sioux Falls, SD

Will the chiefs be able to compete this year?

Matt Williamson

  (12:43 PM)

No, but a foundation is being put into place. That change to a 3-4 is going to take a lot of time and I see them needing a lot to make that switch. Plus, Dorsey isn't going to be used right-nor is Hali or D Johnson. And...it isn't like they couldn't use some help on O!

The Wolf (Cleveland)

SInce it appears that Cutler will not work out in Denver. Is there any truth to the rumor that Mangini is interested in getting Cutler? What would it take?

Matt Williamson

  (12:44 PM)

No idea if that is true. How about Quinn and their 2nd rounder? Seem fair?

mike (rapid city, sd)

Matt- you do see the cowboys goin after maybe marvin harrison or a holt?? Also what do you see them doing draft day with out a first rounder??

Matt Williamson

  (12:45 PM)

They don't have a first rounder-ouch. I could see Marvin or more likely, Holt. That is a J Jones type of move.

Sean (Philly)

Both the Eagles firsts for Peters and their second should be enough to get that done. Then draft the best S/TE/RB available with their pick.

Matt Williamson

  (12:45 PM)

2 1s and a 2 for Peters? The guy isn't Anthony Munoz!

Matt Williamson

  (12:46 PM)

Maybe I read that wrong. Two #1s for Buff's number 2 and Peters? Still seems steep, but better than what I originally though. Philly isn't real big on signing first rounders to the $$$ they command, so moving one of those picks surely would not be a shock.

Andy (Ann Arbor, MI)

What do you think it would take draftpick-wise to trade for Braylon? He has a ton of potential, but is gone after this year.

Matt Williamson

  (12:48 PM)

You keep hearing Kiwi from NYG for Braylon, but NYG isn't going to pull the trigger on that. How about Braylon straight up for a 2nd and maybe next year's 3rd? In that neighborhood. Edwards certainly is not my favorite WR, but if I were NYG, I would offer that late 1 for him straight up....and then be a real force.

Anthony (NYC)

M-Dub wouldn't the Panthers be better off using they're #1 pick on the likes of Mark Sanchez or Josh Freeman? After watching Delhomme in the playoffs one of these kids can do about the same or surely better.

Matt Williamson

  (12:48 PM)

They don't have a number one. Used it for Otah...which ended up well. QB of the future will have to wait. Don't give up completely on Matt Moore in Car.

Dorst Twins (MTL, PA)

Will Ike Taylor ever learn to grab the balls that come his way?

Matt Williamson

  (12:49 PM)

Prob not. Guy has bad bad hands. Started his career as Louis Laf on O...there is a reason that a small school would move such a great athlete to D!

Pete NY

Edwards from the Browns seems like the best trade candidate for the Giants at WR given his age and height, but does he drop the ball as much as people make him out to?

Matt Williamson

  (12:49 PM)

He sure does, but yes, I agree. If I were in charge of NYG, I would give up that first for Edwards or Boldin in a heartbeat. NYG would be LOADED.

Greg (Maryville, Tn)

How about the Titans trading Vince Young to Denver for Jay Cutler? I think it makes a lot of sense.

Matt Williamson

  (12:50 PM)

No one wants VY.

Will (Boston, MA)

There still any chance the Pats will trade a couple picks for Julius Peppers once he signs the franchise tender?

Matt Williamson

  (12:50 PM)

Maybe. I think Peppers could be a beast in that D, but I question if he has the toughs that BB needs out of his players-esp on D. Not exactly a Vrabel type personality!

The Wolf (Cleveland)

Joe Jurevicious....will Mangini keep his leadership?

Matt Williamson

  (12:51 PM)

Maybe...but does it really matter?

Todd indy

do you have a superbowl pick yet?

Matt Williamson

  (12:52 PM)

SOOOOO early, but I see PGH and NEng as the best teams in the NFL. Before free agency, I mentioned Philly, but would take NYG over them now....especially if they land a WR.

Sean (Philly)

Some team will get Vince Young and Ron Mexico on the same team next year, and try to run the option/wildcat offense. Between the two, one will hopefully be healthy.

Matt Williamson

  (12:52 PM)

& the opposing D will put 10 in the box and beat the dirt out of the ball carrier.

jeff (montana)

do you think jarron gilbert might be better than tyson jackson? comparable combine i think more upside with gilbert

Matt Williamson

  (12:53 PM)

Better measureables. That is for sure. High upside to Gilbert and I would not be shocked one bit if he ends up in Round 1 when it is all said and done. But, T Jackson is a couple year starter at LSU. There is something to be said for that! He plays Georgia, Florida, you get my point. Stout at the POA. Further along than Gilbert without question.

Burwell (Addison, PA)

I'm so tired of the Wildcat. When will this craze end? Surely people realize that teams aren't going to waste a draft pick or grab a free agent to run that play a few times a year.

Matt Williamson

  (12:56 PM)

I am with you to a point. I don't claim to be a coach-or D Coordinator for that matter-but I would have an automatic check to Cover Zero or Cover 1 as soon as some non-QB got behind center. Make someone like Ronnie Brown throw the ball! I bet more bad things happen for them than good. Bring heat like crazy. Lay some serious wood to everyone involved. If you give up a big play against it here and there, so be it, but you can't allow four or five yards at a clip. Crowd the LOS like no one's business. Antoher thing, I would let James Harrison or Terrell Suggs or someone of that nature move out over the QB who was lined up wide and just beat the dirt out of him off the LOS with the first five yards.

Eric (Sioux City)

How about Gilbert to NE at 34. The Pats always seem to draft to replace next years losses and Seymour will be an UFA.

Matt Williamson

  (12:56 PM)

Makes a lot of sense. The Pats use high picks on DL.

matt(newport news, VA)

how do you think the redskins will do this season. will they make it to the playoffs?

Matt Williamson

  (12:57 PM)

Such a tough division. Haynesworth certainly could be a huge difference maker. Still have serious questons about Wash's passing game though. Plus, I must admit, I just don't trust that franchise. There, I said it. Can't back them.

The Wolf (Cleveland)

Love the comment about K2 and A. Bryant...do you really think those two will work well together? Those two egos are bigger than K2 and Braylon's egos.

Matt Williamson

  (12:58 PM)

How could they work well together? Especially with poor QB play? KaBoom!

sergio san jose calif

with jamarcus russell second full of starting can the raiders compete and is it safe to say they will draft a receiver or tackle in the 1st round!

Matt Williamson

  (12:59 PM)

If they do NOT go OT or WR, you should turn in your sliver and black. No brainer. Russell's late season improvement was impressive-no question. Just needs so much more around him and he is still very far away from being a polished reader of D's and decison maker. So so pocket presence.

jeff (montana)

do you think terrance taylor dt can be a leggit nt in the nfl a little small but really strong? is he a 4-3 or 3-4 dt

Matt Williamson

  (1:00 PM)

Prob fits in either, but as a rotational player. Stout fire plug. Run stopper. Early down player only. Rotation. Still, those guys don't grow on trees.

Anthony (NYC)

Matt at this point in time how productive will Springs & Bodden be for the Pats? each time the rest of the AFC east gets close Belicheck hits' em with a trump card.

Matt Williamson

  (1:01 PM)

Sure does...like having Brady come back! I really like both signings and more importantly, you know that a boost to the pass rush is coming. Look out for the Pats.

Matt Williamson

  (1:01 PM)

Okay, I am out. Catch me here next Wed at noon. Great stuff guys. Take care.