Kevin Seifert

  (1:00 PM)

Hi everyone. This is shaping up to be a pretty busy day in the NFL for a random Monday in March, and I literally have hundreds of questions already lined up. We'll keep the conversation focused mostly on NFC North items, with the requisite number of Jay Cutler questions addressed as well. Ok, let's get to it.

anthony from houston tx [via mobile]

What's gonna happen with the qb situation in denver?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:02 PM)

Things seem to have taken a turn for the worse, and the key thing is that both the owner and the coach are now acknowledging that a trade is possible. That should tell you they are close to their wits' end. I don't know where that will lead. The Broncos' backup right now is Chris Simms. Would they really trade Cutler without getting another quarterback in return?

Jeff (Seattle)

Julian Peterson for Cory Redding. Who got the better deal, Seattle or Detroit?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:03 PM)

I honestly think this is a trade where each team unloaded a player it didn't see a future with in exchange for one who might be able to help them. Redding isn't big enough to play inside in Jim Schwartz's scheme, and he's probably past the point of moving back to end. But he could help the Seahawks' interior rotation. Peterson had a sharp dropoff in sacks last season, but I think he can at least provide a credible pass rushing threat that teams are going to have to account for in game plans. The Lions don't have many defensive players like that.

Joe (Detroit)

Is Ford just getting us ready for another huge let down or do the lions really have a chance at getting Cutler?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:05 PM)

I think they have a chance in the sense that they have five of the first 82 picks in the draft. So they have the ammunition. And in reality, whatever contract they have to pay Cutler would be similar to what they would have to pay Matthew Stafford if they draft him. So why not get a ready made starter?

Robert (Jay Leno's Motor City)

Is it Possible that Martin mayhem actually HELPED make his number 1 pick more tradeable to say Seattle who now needs a strong side LB? Curry is there ...for KC not the Seahawks. then the Lions can draft B.J.Raji with the #4 and get even more picks and we Lions fans will continue to wonder why our front office is suddenly...GOOD?!

Kevin Seifert

  (1:07 PM)

I see your point but I don't know if the intent was there or not. Good theory, though.

Bobby (Toledo, OH)

Would Cutler for the 1st overall pick, with Denver sending the 12th overall to Detroit work?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:09 PM)

I've had a number of people ask me about that scenario. Basically I means that the Broncos give up Cutler in exchange for moving up 11 spots in the draft. I would have to think the Lions are going to have to give up more than that. If that was the only deal available for Denver, I'd just keep him and navigate through the acrimony.

Bobby (Toledo, OH)

Robert, giving up a starter and a 5th rounder for a player that was going to get cut makes their front office GOOD?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:11 PM)

One caveat I'd add, Bobby, is what a couple of commenters brought up over the weekend: If Peterson gets cut, he has the choice to sign anywhere. Is Detroit going to be attractive to him? Who knows? There have been a number of free agents who have visited Detroit this offseason, Derrick Dockery chief among them, who were probably just looking to drive their price up elsewhere.

bob jerseyyyyy [via mobile]

do u think kampman is mad at positioon move. heard he didnt talk to media ova weekend.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:12 PM)

Yes, it's true he did not talk to the media at FanFest over the weekend. I guess we can't draw any definitive conclusions, but Kampman is a guy that rarely turns down interviews. Whether he's mad or just doesn't want to comment on the move until he tries it, I don't know.

Justin from Omaha,NE [via mobile]

Who needs to go after Jay Cutler the most, Detroit, Minnesota, Or even possibly the Bears?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:13 PM)

I think you can make strong case for each team. I've written in the past and still believe that there are more reasons for the Vikings to pursue him than any other. Why would they spend so much money accumulating talent while not addressing the quarterback position as well?

Chris, Long Island NY

ESPN SC had a ticker that said Denver isn't interested in draft picks. What are your thoughts on whether that's true, and if it was true, how would that affect the horserace for Cutler?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:14 PM)

I didn't see that. But one thing that seems reasonable is the Broncos would probably need a quarterback as part of the package they acquire for Cutler. Otherwise, you're looking at Chris Simms as your starter in 2009.

Shane (Los Angeles, CA)

KS: Seriously, what was ESPN thinking? A division blogger on the Monday after the new players' union president is elected, compounded with the Cutler trade issue??? Good luck keeping this chat focused on the NFC North!

Kevin Seifert

  (1:14 PM)

I ... will ... not ... give ... in

Pete (NC)

I know this is an NFC North chat, but let's put a little twist on it. Which NFC North's college bball counterpart goes the furthest: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, or Michigan St?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:16 PM)

I like the intent. But I'm not sure I could name a single player on any of the four teams. Actually, I've heard of Blake Hoffarber or whatever his name is because he won an ESPY playing for a nearby high school. So, let me get back to you.

Jack (Philadelphia)

I just read that the Bears are giving Earl bennet a chance to win the Number 2 spot. Does this mean they are looking elsewhere with their first round draft pick other than reciever?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:17 PM)

No, I wouldn't read that into it. Rookie receivers often take the route Bennett did, which is to basically sit idle in the first year. If the Bears draft a receiver in the first round, it would be hard to count on him as a full-time starter. At best, you'd want him entering the season as your No. 3. I'll also say that this is the time of year when you give young, inexperienced players a chance to demonstrate their improvement. We're a long way away from games that count.

James (detroit)

One Detroit writer feels pretty confident the Lions will take a LT with the #1 pick. Do you think that's the way they are leaning?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:18 PM)

Yeah, I saw Tommy Kowalski wrote that. It makes sense to me and I agree with him. I think there are enough questions about Stafford, and enough holes elsewhere, that Jason Smith from Baylor makes the most sense. At least as of today.

Zac (MN)

What would keep the Vikings from offering 2 #1s or a 1 this year and a 2 next year along with Rosenfels or Tjack(Bronco's choice for someone to compete with Simms) and Chester Taylor (who is in the last year of his contract and replaceable with a rookie)? Just get it done.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:19 PM)

Might as well add the kitchen sink and be done with it, Zac.

Ross in Chicago

Why are Bus Cook's clients so sensitive? Does he yell a lot?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:20 PM)

Ha. No, he's actually a pretty soft-spoken guy. But it's pretty clear he's willing to get dirty and play hardball.

Matt (Chicago)

Olsen has a ton of potential, but he only shows flashes of brilliance. Is he suffering from bad QB play?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:21 PM)

I agree he's been consistent. But if anything, I think Olsen was hurt last year by a lack of talent at receiver. He faces more difficult coverage than most tight ends because opponents didn't have to double-team any of the Bears' receivers.

Ryan (WI)

so if the Lions somehow can get Cutler and extend him at 30 mil guaranteed, they still have to pay "someone" at that number one spot, presumably another 25 mil guaranteed at least, even if it isn't Stafford, so it's not like they're off the hook for that money (unless they trade that #1 overall to Denver)

Kevin Seifert

  (1:22 PM)

Very true and a good point. But I guess I'm saying I'd rather pay $30 million to Cutler than $30-plus million to Stafford.

Daniel (Tenn.)

Sorry KS but i gotta ask..... V. Young for Cutler??? Straight up? Seems good for both teams.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:23 PM)

That settles the Broncos' need to get a quarterback in return. Then the Titans would have to break their promise to Kerry Collins, but that's not the first time a team has "changed its mind."

Jerry Angelo (Chicago)

What would you do at this point if you were me? I seem to have decided take a very slow, penny-pinching approach to free agency. But my current players aren't even that good - they are never in demand when they leave the Bears. How can I win by expecting my mediocre team to suddenly get better? Help me out man!

Kevin Seifert

  (1:24 PM)

Well, it's pretty clear what you've decided to do: Shake up the coaching staff and hope the new guys can get more out of your players than the old guys.

Steve (nyc)

As a Bears fan who hasnt seen a good QB in 20 years how could they not offer a package to Denver? Cutler has even said he was a Bears fan

Kevin Seifert

  (1:25 PM)

Probably for the same reasons they haven't had a good quarterback in 20 years: A belief it can be done without breaking the bank.

Paul (AZ)

Have you seen or heard when the Lions are going to reveal the new uniforms and logo?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:27 PM)

I haven't. The whole thing is pretty mysterious. My understanding is that the Lions would have had to get approval from the NFL already to change the uniforms, and that information would have been made public right now. But the team hasn't done anything to quell speculation that a change is coming. You would think they will make the change before the draft if it's going to happen so people can buy the new jerseys with Jason Smith's name ... er, the No. 1 pick's name ... on the back.

Zac (MN)

True Kevin. Not to beat a dead horse (and to completely annoy you) but what would you say is a package that will get it done from the Vikings regarding Cutler? It's going to have to be good if the Broncos don't want to trade him and the best the Vikings can offer for a QB is Sage or Tjack, right?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:29 PM)

Not annoying at all. Maybe they can work a three-way deal, but that would take some creativity. Ultimately, the Broncos would have to accept a mostly draft-based package if they do a deal with the Vikings.

Greg (Denver)

Which QB would you pick if you could pick any to mate up with McDaniels to immediately win next season? Cutler is all but outta here.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:30 PM)

How about Jeff Garcia? He's a free agent and would be a perfect short-term fit. The offense Daniels used in New England last year would fit Garcia well.

Bobby (Toledo, OH)

Will you watch the UFL this year?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:31 PM)

Actually, I'll be interested to see Denny Green on the sidelines again.

nick (iowa city)

no way you could throw in chester and a decent round pick to get cutler? does there have to be a QB in this deal?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:32 PM)

I don't know that it's mandatory to throw a quarterback in there. But look at it from Denver's side: Wouldn't it be more enticing if you could come out of a trade with at least a functional and experienced quarterback? You'd be more likely to do a deal in that scenario.

Chris, Minny

I think it's safe to say that the Broncos won't get a QB anything close to Cutler in a deal, so which team would have the most ammo to get the deal done?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:32 PM)

The Broncos could do a lot worse than acquiring Kyle Orton, that's for sure. But that will be incumbent on the Bears.

Steiny (NYC)

Is there any chance Denver fires McDaniel do they can keep Cutler?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:33 PM)

No, but I do think Pat Bowlen can't be thrilled with the way things are going in the first few months of the McDaniels administration.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:35 PM)

Hah. I know there have been different interpretations of the moves and approach taken by the Lions under Martin Mayhew. I don't agree with every decision they've made, but in general I think Mayhew has proved to be a thorough executive who isn't looking for a quick fix and will turn over every stone looking for an advantage.

Chris, Minny

So if Stafford doesn't go #1 and Cutler doesn't get traded to the Vikes, there is a better chance of either Sanchez or Freeman being around at or close to #22 right?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:36 PM)

Maybe Freeman. But I bet Sanchez is gone by then regardless of Stafford's position. There are even some people who believe Sanchez will get picked ahead of Stafford if the Lions don't take him at No. 1.

mojo (Castle Rock, CO)

I think Bowlen and McD agreed on Cutler when they interviewed. The topic must have come up. This last meeting was just a marketing ploy to create a bidding war. I don't think they had any intention of keeping Cutler from the beginning. This whole thing is crazy, am I?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:38 PM)

It's possible. I can only hope McDaniels expressed some doubt about Cutler in the interview. If he didn't -- if he said he could build his offense around him -- then this is a major foul-up on his part.

Bobby (Toledo, OH)

Why did GB offer Mike Montgomery a new contract? I realize he is 25, but the guy can't stay healthy!

Kevin Seifert

  (1:38 PM)

I don't think it was a lucrative contract with much guaranteed money. That's probably why he's shopping around.

Ben (minneapolis)

I'm curious as to if there would be a possibility if next year, the GB Packers might look into acquiring a elite RB? I'd like to think that b.jackson could stay a #2 but I'm not a fan of grant.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:40 PM)

I wouldn't consider it likely. They just gave Grant a pretty good extension last summer. I'm guessing they have other priorities.

Aaron (alabama)

Is the UFL going to be on national telivision and when does the season start?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:41 PM)

My understanding is the season starts in October and games will be on Thursday and Friday nights on the Versus cable channel.

Byron (Dominica)

At this point, it sounds like if the Lions are going to draft Stafford, they might as well pull a Minnesota and put the pick in a few minutes late. It sounds like he'd be available, and for less money, into the teens.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:42 PM)

Not a bad idea. You wouldn't think the next few teams would be interested, for sure. I'm sure Lions fans would take that stunt well. :)

Brent (Indianapolis)

Would the Bears look at recently released Matt Jones? I know he had trouble with the law before, but he would be a perfect compliment to Hester with his big size.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:43 PM)

That will be interesting. But I wonder if he'll be subject to a year-long suspension after his latest arrest.

Corey (Sioux City Iowa)

Any Vikings players expected to miss upcoming mini-camps or OTA's?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:43 PM)

They don't start the offseason program until April 6, so that really hasn't come up yet.

Jim (Det)

Is this the perfect draft day scenario for Detroit? 1) Jason Smith, OT 20) Perry, DT 33) Laurinitas, MLB. All three are huge needs and ranked right around that draft slot.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:44 PM)

I like the first two, but not sure on Laurinitas. Is he big enough to play MLB in the NFL?

Mike Shanahan (on a beach)

Isn't this fun?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:44 PM)

Looks like you picked the right yet to get fired.

Mike (Detroit)

If the Lions land Cutler and draft Jason Smith (or another stud tackle), and Kevin Smith turns into the stud he's capable of becoming, could the Lions suddenly have a top-10 offense?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:46 PM)

I wouldn't get too excited quite yet, but yes, I do think they'd have the makings of a good offense if Gosder Cherilus improves at right tackle. I also think an underrated part of that success would be Scott Linehan, the offensive coordinator who really is good at developing a scheme around the players he has.

Greg, Boston

Have you heard any updates on the landing spot of MLB Angelo Crowell or TE L.J. Smith I heard L.J. was making a decision today, I know both visited the Lions about a week ago... also early on there was some talk of Larry Foote having an unfathomable desire to play in Detroit has there been any word on this.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:47 PM)

Latest reports out there suggest Crowell is back in Buffalo to try to work out things with the BIlls. Smith is supposed to sign with Atlanta. Foote eventually refuted the report that he wanted to come back to the Lions.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:47 PM)

Or at least, come back home to play for his hometown team.

Din, Nor Cal

Hey kev, i just heard that rex grossman said the hell with the nfl and is signing with the sf ufl team and he said it has to do with playin for denny green can you believe that????

Kevin Seifert

  (1:48 PM)

I didn't hear that and don't know if it's true. I will say that a quarterback can do a lot worse than playing for Denny Green. Check out his history.

J.B. (Dunmore, PA)

If Minnesota can't get a deal done for Cutler, is Hakeem Nicks their choice at number 22?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:49 PM)

That's what a couple of the draft analysts are saying. My take is that when you get down to No. 22, you forget about the position and just take the best player even if you have a top starter and backup there.

Mick (Chicago)

Is Rod Marinelli the most important free agent signing in the North's offseason?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:50 PM)

That's what Lovie Smith believes, and in the end that might be the reality. It seems Chicago is making clear that it thinks it can do better with the players it has.

Bret Favre

My agent called and said something about a QB job that was about to open in Denver -- should I look into it?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:50 PM)

Now THAT is the conspiracy theory of all conspiracy theories. I love it!

Brett (Houston, TX)

If you were a second or third tier player in the NFL, a backup or what have you, wouldn't you be clamoring to get on the Lions? They don't have talent, so you'd have an opportunity to start and show what you've got. Or do players fear losing that badly?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:53 PM)

Interesting question. I think players wan to go to the place where they can get paid, either immediately or a year down the line. The latter is definitely a selling point for the Lions: Come to Detroit on a one-year contract, show what you can do and get someone to pay you bigger money the following year.

Andy (LA)

Does Jeremy Green make you say good things about his dad?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:53 PM)

Naw. And I've said plenty of not-so-nice things about him, too.

Rob: Minneapolis

If the Vikes were to get Cutler in a trade, don't you feel Childress would have a difficult time dealing with the potential hiring of Shannahan as the new head coach in 2010. Seems like a dream scenerio for ESPN.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:54 PM)

That wins second place for Conspiracy Theory of the day.

Din, Nor Cal

So R u stopping into da Bears OTAs to report back to us about whats happening, the whole rex grossman to the ufl was a joke i just wanted to get a question answered out of the crap load i sent and you picked that one to answer,,,lol sorry man hella funny

Kevin Seifert

  (1:55 PM)

Ah, dirty on your part. Just for that, you'll have to wait and see whether I travel to Chicago or not.

cgm

What do you think of Vikes signing Paymah? Will he overtake Sapp? Will he add in special teams?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:56 PM)

Yes, I expect him to be the nickel back over Benny Sapp and Charles Gordon.

John (Detroit)

Really? Rod Marinelli? THAT'S the Bears' entire plan? REALLY?!?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:57 PM)

That and the draft. At least, it appears that way at this point.

Jared (west union IA)

How could Bowlen let this situation get so bad?

Kevin Seifert

  (1:59 PM)

I think some of the blame has to go to him. If you fire an experienced guy in Shanahan and then hire two young guys to replace him, then you need to take a little more responsibility on yourself as owner to make sure things get sorted out early on.

Kevin Seifert

  (1:59 PM)

OK, let's wrap this baby up.

Trevor (Chicago, IL)

Doesn't this trade for Cutler make sense for both sides? Bears give 2009 1st, conditional 2010 pick *based on how well Cutler does*, and Orton for Cutler? Both sides end up with at least a decent quarterback, and the vikes and lions can't compete with that

Kevin Seifert

  (2:00 PM)

If the Broncos decide they have to have a quarterback in return, then yes, the Bears are in position to offer the best deal.

Kevin Seifert

  (2:00 PM)

OK, thanks everyone. Chat with you next week!