Chat with Paul Kuharsky
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Kuharsky joined ESPN.com in 2008 after 12 years covering the Oilers/Titans and the NFL for The (Nashville) Tennessean. The New Jersey native and Columbia graduate lives in Nashville with his wife.
Send your questions for Kuharsky now and join him on Thursday at 3 p.m. ET!
Kuharsky Archive: Columns | AFC South blog | Chat | NFL index
Paul Kuharsky (3:01 PM)
Greetings folks... Let's shoot for light today -- funny improved the odds you get answered...
Steiny (NYC)
How big of a blow is it to the Jacksonville Jaguars to lose Sensabaugh?
Paul Kuharsky (3:01 PM)
They never expected to keep him, so they were not surprised...
Brian Fullford (Jacksonville, FL)
Paul, have you heard anything regading the Jags trading for Cutler? There was some talk on local radio regarding this. Not sure if it was simply radio fodder or based on actual happenings.
Paul Kuharsky (3:03 PM)
Have heard nothing. Suspect we're going to hear a rumor about every team. Would think Denver would need a starting QB in return, and don't know how/why they would prefer No. 8 to Cutler...
Kingpin (Grinnell, IA)
Do you think the Titans will take a RB at any point in the draft? This is probably LenDale's last year in Nashville so a compliment for CJ would be nice.
Paul Kuharsky (3:04 PM)
Won't be surprised at all to see a second-day big back. But Rafael Little will take Chris Henry's spot and be a factor, I believe...
Andy ( Houston)
Hey Paul, With A. Smith on board now at DE what will the Texans look to do in the draft? Trade down and look for a Matthews or other LB or S? It seems the value at 15 for what they need isn't really there except maybe Cushing.
Paul Kuharsky (3:05 PM)
I think they'd consider Cushing if he's the best guy there. Won't force DT or S, which I rate as big needs and should wait on RB....
Tim (Denver)
Hey Paul, I have a RB question. Which AFC RB do you think has the brightest future (Chris Johnson, MJD, Slaton, Addai). I enjoy reading your blogs.
Paul Kuharsky (3:06 PM)
Have to say Johnson right now, as he's running behind the best line and has a great defense to get him the ball back...
Marc (Clarksville, TN)
Ok Paul, assuming Kerry plays out his two year contract and rides off into the sunset, and this is Vince's last year with the Titans like you have speculated, what they heck is the long term plan at Quarterback? Can't trade for anyone, and I haven't heard a mention of picking one this year to groom for 2-3 years. Certainly the Titans brass can't be preparing for life after Vince without a replacement yet?
Paul Kuharsky (3:06 PM)
They could well draft a second-day guy. It's something they have to be planning for beyond this year...
Cole: Lexington,KY
Any word on the Titans and Torry Holt?
Paul Kuharsky (3:08 PM)
This is for all the Torry Holt questioners: He has to be released before there is anything to be heard. I do think they'll look at him, but I suspect he'll find more interest/money/opportunity elsewhere. And how's his health? If a tweaked hammy sends him to the bench easily, that's not what they need. Still, would be a good add at the right price, I think...
j houston
hi paul, im a texans fan, do you think that smith will give us what we need at de opposite williams? and who do you see us takin in the first rd
Paul Kuharsky (3:09 PM)
I think he's a good guy to try, I like that they targeted him and went after him like they did. DT would be great, but looks like they'll be in best position for a LB in first round...
Bret (walton Ny)
can the colts rebound and take the division this year with all of their changes in management? or is it another great year for the titans? do you think perhaps Houston could make a run?
Rob (Cape Coral, FL)
Paul, Have you heard about the Titans making a trade for any/all of these players: Tom Brady, Jay Cutler, Anquan Boldin, Randy Moss, Chad Johnson, Drew Brees, or any other "big name" player??? Also, if the Titans get all of those players, will the NFL just cancel the Super Bowl/Playoffs and give the title to the Titans?
Paul Kuharsky (3:11 PM)
I asked for comedy, I get comedy...
Jesse in Nashville
Rumors are flying around that Bryan Pride might be traded to Jacksonville to shore up their O-line.. I'm scared Paul. We cant let him go.
Paul Kuharsky (3:13 PM)
I liked the idea of floating him out on the lake near the Titans complex and burning him like a funeral pyre... Who knows what that guy might be up to at David Stewart's house?
Bob, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Paul, Did Eddie George ever officially retire? Just curious if not why?
Paul Kuharsky (3:13 PM)
What does it matter if you're finished playing whether you've filed paper work or not?
Peter (Nashville)
Hey Paul, I was just curious how the Division blogger system is set up. If and when is there going to be a change in who blogs each division. I like your stuff so I am not implying I want you replaced. Thanks.
Paul Kuharsky (3:15 PM)
Each of us was hired in part because we had a handle on one of the teams and a perspective on the division from seeing the others twice a year. A year into building more relationships and watching four teams, I don't expect we're going to be moved...
JL (Hoboken, NJ)
If the league determines that the Redskins tampered with fat Al what kind of compensation would the Titans receive? Is that 49ers, Lance Brigss thing a precedent or would the Titans get more since they actually lost the player?
Paul Kuharsky (3:15 PM)
I don't think they'd get anything major -- it would be more about punishing the Skins that rewarding the Titans...
Bret (NY)
could you see the titans trading up for Maclin or Crabtree?
Paul Kuharsky (3:17 PM)
No. Both will be gone inside the top 10, probably the top seven or eight...
Shane (Los Angeles, CA)
Some mock drafts have the Jaguars grabbing Sanchez at #8. This move makes no sense to me...if they are that concerned about a QB of the future, why not give Arizona a call and see if Leinert could be had for a second round pick? Then they could address their more pressing needs.
Paul Kuharsky (3:19 PM)
Well what if they really like Sanchez or Stafford and don't like Leinart? If they are willing to say they made a mistake with Garrard and they feel great about a guy there for them at eight, it wouldn't be crazy... I suspect they go a different direction, however...
Drew (Buffalo)
When do you think you'd be selected in an espn fantasy blogger draft? Mocks say Graham is first and Sando is second. Also, Rob from Cape Coral is ridiculous.
Paul Kuharsky (3:20 PM)
I think Graham is being overrated and I know I can outrun him...
Todd, Redwood Falls, Mn
Hey, Paul, Are all the 'average'/'safe' free agency signings by the Lions worth it? Or are they adding more mediocre players to an all ready week team?
Paul Kuharsky (3:21 PM)
I don't begrudge them signing a guy like Eric King. It's easier at the outset to improve the 40th spot on your team than the first, second or third...
j houston
i know we need help at DT as well, is Okam gonna be the guy, or do we draft someone like Jerry or Hood, or maybe Ron Brace
Paul Kuharsky (3:21 PM)
It would be great if Okam pans out, but I don't know that you can bank on it yet...
Isaac (Go Pats)
Paul, since you are Tim's nemesis, which of you do think would win in a fight. You look pretty rugged in that picture....
Paul Kuharsky (3:22 PM)
He could not catch me...
Rob (Cape Coral, FL)
Paul, who do you think was the more important player on the Titans defensive line, KVB or Big Al?
Paul Kuharsky (3:22 PM)
Last year Albert, as Kyle missed so much time...
Adam (Htown TX)
What do you think the chances are of the Texans winning the division title this year?
Paul Kuharsky (3:24 PM)
Asking a lot for them to jump two teams. How about a winning record and a bid for second place?
Bob, Fort Lauderdale, FL
OK will try a different question. How serious is Vince Young about doing things the right way? Studying? Attitude?
Paul Kuharsky (3:24 PM)
We start to find out next week...
Mark (Carlstadt, NJ)
Hey Paul, assuming the Titans add another veteran receiver, would it be possible to move Gage (or Washington) in the slot where they could be more effective?
Paul Kuharsky (3:25 PM)
I don't know what makes you sure they are more effective inside. But Dinger will move whoever is most effective inside inside when they go three wide...
Bret (ny)
since dominick rhodes outplayed j. addai last year do you think the colts would give him a fair shot to be a starter next season?
Paul Kuharsky (3:26 PM)
They would need to get him signed first...
Rob (Cape Coral, FL)
Paul, In the all important, must win Hall of Fame game to kick off next season, how do you expect Chuck Cecil to set up the defense to stop TO??
Paul Kuharsky (3:27 PM)
Finnegan bumps him at the line with Griffin helping over the top...
Glenn (Cumberland, RI)
Hello fellow Columbia grad! Assuming the Titans hold form and refuse to draft a WR, which way do they go? DE? Safety depth with a guy like Delmas or the kid Moore out of Mizzou? Maybe a C like Mack to groom behind Mawae?
Paul Kuharsky (3:28 PM)
Roar Lions Roar... Leroy Harris is their next center. Could be CB. Or they could just take the guy who falls like the did Bulluck's year...
Seth (Denver, CO)
What are you thoughts on this season of "24"?
Paul Kuharsky (3:28 PM)
I bailed after just a couple episodes. I was not die-hard, but I found this one unwatchable...
Joey (Rochester, New York)
If Clay Matthews Jr. is still there at the 30 slot, do the Titans draft him?
Paul Kuharsky (3:29 PM)
Depends on who else is available. He seems to be rising and probably won't be there...
Kevin Winterton (Toronto)
Keeping it light, how do you rank the uniforms in the AFC South? I can't stand those awful all-red Texans uniforms, but the Titans in white helmet-light blue jerseys-navy blue pants at home is a mess also. Colts gotta be tops, right? On another note, are the rumors about the Jags tweaking their uniforms for this season true?
Paul Kuharsky (3:30 PM)
Colts, Texans, Titans, Jags... I heard slight tweaks we might hear about before the draft...
Vic (Kailua, HI)
Thoughts on the Pro Bowl coming back to Hawaii?
Paul Kuharsky (3:30 PM)
The only way they'll get some players to attend. Smart move...
Seth (Denver, CO)
Did I go to the wrong chat? Am I in a Titans only chat room?
Paul Kuharsky (3:30 PM)
Way to address the problem by asking a non-Titans question!
peter (boston,ma)
The pats have 3 second round draft picks. You see them using these to finally get some help for their defense?
Paul Kuharsky (3:31 PM)
Finally help the defense because they didn't draft the defensive rookie of the year in the first round last year?
WESS ILL.
WILL THE COLTS BRING IN ANY FREE AGENTS
Paul Kuharsky (3:32 PM)
I doubt it. They've got no money, and don't really like to bring in outsiders...
Marc (Clarksville, TN)
Hey Paul, sorry for the two questions but I think this one begs for an answer. You and everyone have said LenDale walks after this year. Is it because he's going to want starter money, or is he in his new role completely replaceable and not worth retaining? He has to have some value to the franchise. I mean, they franchised Scaife, the most overrated player on the team
Paul Kuharsky (3:33 PM)
Completely replaceable, I think...
Jim (Greenwood, IN)
Paul, looks like the Colts are trying to shore up the front seven. Can we hope for some bigger bodies now?
Paul Kuharsky (3:34 PM)
If they don't come out of the draft with a beefier DT I'll be very surprised...
Matt (Boston)
I know you aren't AFC West or NFC North... but, how high is Cutler worth? Would Detroit trade the #1 for him straight up?
Paul Kuharsky (3:34 PM)
I would if I was Detroit. But if I am Denver do I want the No. 1 pick? To draft who?
Bob, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Paul, I know you don't pick games, however you must have a favorite NFL team. If so who? Or is that an out of bounds question?
Paul Kuharsky (3:35 PM)
No favorite. I root for good stories and good guys...
Brad (Indianapolis, IN)
Are the Colts going to sign Rhodes back? What about pickin gup Derrick Brooks?
Paul Kuharsky (3:36 PM)
I still think they will bring Rhodes back, but am less sure than I once was. I don't think they'd bring in Brooks...
Jim (Greenwood, IN)
Is the # 27 pick a WR, or do you see a run on them and the Colts trading down?
Paul Kuharsky (3:37 PM)
I think if the receiver they want is there, that they probably go receiver, then turn their attention to defense...
Billy Mays (Florida)
Billy Mays here with a question for you! Did the Texans overpay for Antonio Smith? This question is only good for the next two minutes! So make sure to answer it quick!
Paul Kuharsky (3:38 PM)
He's not breaking their cap or anything. Big contract. He could be worth it...
Vic (Kailua, HI)
With an uncapped season just around the corner, what affect will it have on existing contracts? Will we see a large number of good-elite players wanting to restructure their contracts to get more money?
Paul Kuharsky (3:39 PM)
The uncapped season is there to force them to renegotiate. I don't think either side really believes it would be good for the game in the long run...
Seth (Denver, CO)
And just so you know, an ellipsis that is not followed by another sentence should end with a period. Meaning you would have an ellipsis (...) followed by a period. Just trying to help....
Paul Kuharsky (3:39 PM)
We've covered this, but it's a hard change to make for someone who's ended email graphs like that forever....
Matt (Boston)
If McDaniels wants to mold another QB, it seems like Stafford is a great candidate. On another (actually AFC East note), when will we hear anything about Marvelous Marvin? Thanks for your insight!
Paul Kuharsky (3:40 PM)
I won't be surprised if we don't hear from Marvin until someone assessing their receivers in camp decides they need veteran help...
Sam (Pittsburgh)
Thoughts on the Steelers taking a look at Marvin Harrison. He fills a need and probably would come to a good team reasonably cheap.
Paul Kuharsky (3:41 PM)
I think they are three-deep with Sweed, so I don't agree Harrison would fills a need...
Amir(Mount Laurel)
Paul what are the texans going to do with that backup RB spot?
Paul Kuharsky (3:42 PM)
Draft a back, hopefully not before the third round or so...
Seth (Denver, CO)
Do you think the Colts will change they're draft strategy at all with their new DC, who they say will be charged with making the defense a little less vanilla?
Paul Kuharsky (3:43 PM)
Perhaps a little. He could reinforce the need for size in the middle of the line and maybe persuade Polian to draft a little different kind of linebacker...
Adam (Htown TX)
I'd rather ask for no hurricanes and no week 2 byes. both hurt the texans playoff hopes. the colts and titans have both only gotten older and worse this off season. dont answer a wuestion with a question smart ass
Paul Kuharsky (3:45 PM)
Fallacy: The hurricane cost the Texans a good season. If Houston lost a game because of it, it won one because of it too. If the roof was closed for the Titans game, Bironas kicks a late FG and the Titans win that game...
Bret (walton NY)
typical of kerry collins to choke in the postseason, do you think the titans will have a qb controversy this year?
Paul Kuharsky (3:46 PM)
Did Collins jar the ball loose from LenDale White and Alge Crumpler? I missed that... No controversy, no...
Bobby Pittsburgh PA
Thoughts on Chris Carr and Joey Galloway visting the Steelers this week?
Paul Kuharsky (3:47 PM)
Carr is approaching a half dozen visits. Soon he must realize he won't get starting corner money since he's not a starting corner...
Bob Fort Lauderdale, FL
Paul, When does Fisher Finally get the Hardware of a World Championship. Been a fan since the Luv Ya Blue Days. Fisher deserves it. When????
Paul Kuharsky (3:49 PM)
This always confuses me. How does he deserve it? This is my thinking: The guys who deserve to win Super Bowls are the guys who win them... Only three in the league right now: Belichick, Coughlin and Tomlin. No one else deserving, as no one else won...
Corey (Houston, Texas)
If New Orleans were to pick up Beannie Wells as Kiper predicts, do you think the Houston Texans would have interest in acquiring Pierre Thomas if the Saints were willing to deal him?
Paul Kuharsky (3:51 PM)
I think that's a difficult route to take, basing your decision on what another team might do and then might do as a result of doing that... Houston plans to draft a back to work with Slaton...
Anthony, Nashville
When will Chris Carr come back down to earth and sign with the Titans?
Paul Kuharsky (3:52 PM)
The longer he is out there, the more likely it is he returns, I think...
OG - Houston
What is the impression around the League of Rick Smith. I have heard mixed reviews and in all honesty the best draft in team history still belongs to Charley Casserly.
Paul Kuharsky (3:53 PM)
Jury is still out. But Smith's only overseen two drafts, right? And he didn't have the No. 1 pick in either of them....
Drew (Buffalo)
No body in the NFL ever deserves anything. They earn everything. The Lombardi doesn't go to the team who "deserves" it, it goes to the team who earns it. Also, this is my first chat with you and you're my new favorite blogger! Keep up the good work.
Paul Kuharsky (3:53 PM)
Be sure to tell Graham...!
Bob Fort Lauderdale, FL
Paul, deserving as a good guy who appears straight up does things the right way. Does not get the break when he seems to need it. Like Baltimore in 2000 and 2009. Is that his fault?
Paul Kuharsky (3:56 PM)
No, he didn't choke on big moments against Baltimore. But he did keep Del Greco too long, and he did endorse the drafting of Pacman Jones and Vince Young.... I think he's a very good coach, but he's not without fault and he's not deserving of anything he doesn't earn.... Rod Marinelli was a good guy, I thought. Appeared straight up and attempted to do things the right way....
Daniel Nashville, TN
Mike Mayock keeps mentioning that this kid Herman Johnson of LSU was the biggest baby born in the state of LA. He's a guard at 6'7" 366lbs. Any chance the Titans go after a biggun like him to beef up at left guard?
Paul Kuharsky (3:57 PM)
They draft an O-lineman somewhere along the way. But they don't fall in love with giant guys unless they have qualities Munchak likes...
Kevin, NJ
Jaguars will not select a QB, they will trade the pick, most likely the jets.. your thoughts?
Paul Kuharsky (3:58 PM)
I don't think people will be knocking down the door to give up what it takes to get to No. 8 to pay that salary...
Jeff Fisher
Hey now, don't forget that I parachuted into practice too. How cool is that?
Paul Kuharsky (3:58 PM)
That was pretty cool. I missed it....
Brooks (Murfreesboro, TN)
What is the best show on TV right now?
Paul Kuharsky (3:59 PM)
30 Rock, maybe...
Steve (Memphis,TN)
Haynesworth got indicted, any chance he faces a suspension from the league?
Paul Kuharsky (4:00 PM)
Possible under the personal conduct policy and given he has a history...
Kevin, NJ
yeah but the Jets need a QB, will be moving into the new stadium next yr, it all adds up for this to happen
Paul Kuharsky (4:01 PM)
I wrote today about a scenario where the Jags would love to get out of that spot, I think.... If the top two tackles, the top two WRs and Raji are all gone, I'd be looking to get out if I could and that should mean a QB is there....
Jason (Bmore)
Randy Starks. Overrated, not a fit in Tenn, or possible comeback player?
Paul Kuharsky (4:03 PM)
Didn't care hardly at all in Nashville after his rookie year and I was surprised he got that payday in Miami....
OG - Houston
It's clear that the Texans have a need at corner (I guess they don't trust Reeves or Bennet) but they haven't tried to bring in any free agents like Boddin or McFadden...what do you know that we don't?
Paul Kuharsky (4:04 PM)
They like their guys better than you and I do.... They don't like the free agents as much as you did.... They plan to draft a corner.... A better pass rush will make the pass defense better....
JL (Hoboken, NJ)
LaMont Thompson is available for the Texans if they want him
Paul Kuharsky (4:05 PM)
Least accountable player I have ever covered. Wasn't familiar with the expression "my bad," which he should have used quite often...
Matt
At 34 years of age, is Tra Thomas really a guy the Jags can count on to block the likes of Freeney, Mathis, Vandenbosch, etc?
Paul Kuharsky (4:06 PM)
Scouts Inc. says he can pass block against those kind of DEs. It's his run blocking that's the issue to me. But hey, if he buys them time and means they don't have to force a LT at No. 8, maybe it's smart...
Mike(Bowling Green,KY):
What are the chances Raffael Little makes the Titans squad this year?
Paul Kuharsky (4:06 PM)
I say 70 percent. If it's him vs. Henry, 95 percent...
Steiny (NYC)
What do you think about Pittsburgh and Joey Galloway? Does he have anything left?
Paul Kuharsky (4:07 PM)
I'm wary of him. And they have to feel three-deep at receiver, no?
Chief (Nashville)
Do you think Jacob Tammy will have a breakout year with the Colts?
Paul Kuharsky (4:08 PM)
Is this THE Chief? I'd say if Clark is healthy, there is no breaking out to be done by a Colts TE....
Brooks (Murfreesboro, TN)
Did you get a chance to read the article on Pacman from Jay Glazer today! Or can you only read ESPN content? What is he smoking?
Paul Kuharsky (4:09 PM)
I gave up Pacman for Lent.... Three years ago....
Steiny (NYC)
If Vince Young loses another two years on the bench, is his career basically over?
Paul Kuharsky (4:10 PM)
He won't be around for a second year on the bench I don't expect, unless he has a huge offseason and preseason this year..
Ed The Sports Fan (Cincinnati, OH)
After reading your blog and looking at mock drafts, would Jacksonville really set their sights on drafting a QB? Seems to me that Sanchez would be the guy if they did, and maybe he has shades of Mark Brunell in him, what type of percentage would you give Jax in picking a QB?
Paul Kuharsky (4:11 PM)
I don't think Garrard is the guy, but I think they still do. So I still say low, because they have a lot of other spots to address....
Cole(Lexington,KY):
Paul, ever make it rain with Pacman while you lived in Nashville?
Paul Kuharsky (4:11 PM)
One of the great regrets of my life is that I never had the chance...
Chief (Nashville)
The one and only baby!
Paul Kuharsky (4:12 PM)
News: The Texans have re-signed safety Nick Ferguson...
Paul Kuharsky (4:13 PM)
Thanks for coming gang. Hit the mailbag from my blog page anytime, I try to answer everything...
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