Chat with Bill Williamson
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Williamson joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four seasons covering the Denver Broncos for the Denver Post. He previously covered the Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks.
Send your questions now and join Williamson in The Show on Thursday at 2 p.m. ET!
Williamson Archive: Columns | AFC West Blog | Fantasy Football Chats | Fantasy Home
Bill Williamson (2:03 PM)
Let's get rolling, everyone.
PT (Franklin, NC)
Do you think the Raiders have really bought into Tom Cable's team mentality or is it still a me first organization?
Bill Williamson (2:05 PM)
I have a feeling it may be a Jay Cutler fest here so let's start elsewhere. I think Cable is trying hard to take away the "me first" atittude. He realizes a culture change is needed in Oakland.
Ryan (NJ)
Hey BW, great blog. Cutler's gonna go, so who do u think will be Denver's QB in '09?
Bill Williamson (2:07 PM)
Chris Mortensen has reported that the Bronxos aren't insisting on a quarterback in a Cutler trade. Maybe they will draft someone or sign a free agent such as Jeff Garcia. Then there's backup Chris Simms who McDaniels has always liked. yes, the options are not great.
Will (Madison WI)
hey Bill, what are the current situations with Brian Waters and Larry Johnson?
Bill Williamson (2:08 PM)
They think they are both a work in progress. I don't think the final decision has been made in either case.
Andy (Louisville KY)
Never mind Cutler (lol)... what does Brandon Marshall's hip injury do to the Bronco offense come September?
Bill Williamson (2:11 PM)
Good question, Andy. This is a big deal. Marshall should be fine but he will miss the offseason program and it is critical for him to get used to Josh McDaniels' new system. Marshall could be set back by this.
Kevin (Chandler, AZ)
Does Glen Davis of the Celtics have to give up the "Big Baby" nickname to Cutler as part of any trade?
Bill Williamson (2:11 PM)
Solid, Kevin, solid.
Brian (Blacksburg, VA)
Jay cutler will get traded to the ____________, by _____________?
Bill Williamson (2:12 PM)
Redskins .... Friday .... Just an educated guess, Brian.
Ryan (NJ)
Do u no if Denver is looking for anything specific for Jay?
Bill Williamson (2:12 PM)
Two first rounders, at least.
sonia, denver
any chance we pick up brady plus wembley ? How about the browns draft pick and quinn ?
Bill Williamson (2:13 PM)
I think the Browns can be a real player in this deal, yes. They have some ammo.
Vijay (NYC)
What are the odds the McDaniels is one and done in Denver? Seems like that should be scaring him into finding an answer at QB.
Bill Williamson (2:14 PM)
If Cutler"s new team goes to the playoffs and the Broncos go 2-14, McDaniels could be in big trouble.
Shawn (Toronto)
Why would Kansas City be taking LJ to a arbitrator about his 2009 salary guarantees if they planned on keeping him? Seems to me like they are doing this to save money before his release.
Bill Williamson (2:15 PM)
It could be the case, yes. I don't think this story is over.
Jake
What do you think the odds are of the Redskins picking up Cutler and then next year picking up Shanahan?
Bill Williamson (2:16 PM)
I can see that combination in Washington in 2010.
miller(det)
I would love to see Jay a lion this year - any new information on that might happening
Bill Williamson (2:17 PM)
The Broncos, I hear, are scared off by the high cost of the No. 1 pick. And the No. 20 may be too low.
John Haymarket , VA
Why do you feel Cutler will end up with the Redskins I thought they stated they had no interest in him and that Cambell was their man?
Bill Williamson (2:18 PM)
The Redskins are in this, John. Theya re trying hard to get him and they are shopping Campbell to other teams.
Ryan (NJ)
You said Denver will be looking for at least 2 first rounders for Jay. If they get them, wat r the chances Denver trades up for someone like Orakpo or Raji?
Bill Williamson (2:19 PM)
I could see that. But the Broncos have to make sure they get enough value for Cutler. If it ended up being a Cutler for Raji deal, I don't think that is enough for the Broncos. After all, he is a Pro Bowl quarterback who isn't in his prime yet.
albert (toronto)
what are the chances cutler remains in denver i mean are you buying that cutler is regretting this at all if he is does all this fall by the wayside
Bill Williamson (2:20 PM)
At this point, the chances are very bleak.
John (DC)
Do you think Cutler is a good fit for Washington?
Bill Williamson (2:23 PM)
Good question, John. The Redskins don't have a great offensive line. Campbell was sacked 38 times last year. Cutler was sacked 11 times. But he does have a good running back and a good QB coach in Jim Zorn are they are some favorable things in play.
doug heffernan, nyc
any chance skins give up 2 no 1 picks and give denver either rogers or landry in a deal ?
Bill Williamson (2:23 PM)
I've heard both Landry and Rogers in trade talks. Not sure how it'd play out.
Hector (Key West)
But is Cutler a good fit for the Washington locker room?
Bill Williamson (2:24 PM)
Sure, I don't see him as a problem guy. He was never an issue in hsi three seasons in Denver.
Ben (Chico,CA)
Do the niners have a chance at cutler or anything to offer for him?
Bill Williamson (2:26 PM)
Chico (my college town. Love it) ... Anyway, the 49ers have the No. 10 pick so that is agood starting point but I haven't heard much about their interest in the past 24 hours.
jim
so let me get this straight. the 'skins are in it for cutler, willing to shop campbell?? ok skin's fans, get out your crying towels when jc starts demanding a trade if the cutler deal falls through........?? i say.........bills!!
Bill Williamson (2:28 PM)
It's tru, Jim. The Campbell situation could become the next Cutler saga. Man, this is good stuff, isn't it?
Matt Tulsa,OK
Do think this is a ploy by the agent Cook to get a new contract, money now?
Bill Williamson (2:29 PM)
Not at this point, no. It;'s about moving on ... and then maybe getting a new deal with Cutler's new team.
Ryan (NJ)
You said Cutler isnt a character risk in your blog, but here's what the Denver Post said and I agree: "During a 33-19 loss to Kansas City in September, Cutler came unglued in the third quarter, all because a journeyman receiver named Cliff Russell made a mistake on a pass route, resulting in an incompletion. During a timeout the anger was written in red on Cutler's face. He was spitting mad. Hey, stuff happens. An NFL quarterback is paid big bucks to manage a crisis, not melt down. But, when the Broncos returned to the field, Cutler threw two interceptions in the team's next four offensive snaps, committing the turnovers within a span of 60 seconds that saw Denver unravel in a revealing defeat to a truly awful AFC West opponent." I think he's a head case and thats not what u want ur QB do be. What do u think?
Bill Williamson (2:31 PM)
He isn't a locker-room problem. Sure, he needs to show more maturity on the field at times, but he isn't a huge porblem.
Chico State Alumn
Belotti was my HC at Chico ST. (FYI) Any chance of the Raiders moving down in the draft?
Bill Williamson (2:32 PM)
Cool, I was there during those days ... Yes, I could see the Raiders moving down. Maybe a deal with Philly for the No. 21 and No. 28 picks,
Andy (Green Bay, WI):
What is the status of Merriman's return?
Bill Williamson (2:33 PM)
By all accounts, he's doing great and he will be ready to roll in 2009.
Peter (D.C.)
Bill, do you think Cutler in his first year in Zorn's system would be an upgrade (THIS year)over Campbell in his second year in Zorn's system?
Bill Williamson (2:33 PM)
Yes, Cutler is fast learner and he is already established.
Darryl (Oakland, CA)
Alex Mack is the best center to EVER come into an NFL draft and in espn mock drafts he's a fringe 1st rounder. When I see the best teams in the league, they usually have a top flight center. Why is the center position the most overlooked position in football when it appears to be so valuable?
Bill Williamson (2:34 PM)
Best ever?That's a bold statement, Darryl.
Wayne (Michigan)
I'm starting to think the Chargers can with the AFC West in 2009 with a 6-10 record.
Bill Williamson (2:35 PM)
It's only a two-gme drop off from last year's fiasco. Scary.
Vern (SF)
What does McD think of Quinn? Would he rather have Sanchez (USC)?
Bill Williamson (2:38 PM)
Quinn knows the New England system after playing for Weis at Notre Dame so I'd think McDaniels would be somewhat interested in Quinn.
Leo(PA)
Simms gets signed at a high price for a backup. Was this the Broncos strategy from the begining. Lets get rid of our best player and use him to try and fix a team with a million and one holes in it but still not look like we are trying to blow the team apart.
Bill Williamson (2:39 PM)
If Simms is the new quarterback in Denver, then ... wow.
Jacob (NYC)
If the Broncos don't want a QB necessarily and the 'Skins are the biggest Cutler contender, where does Campbell go? I say the Jets! What say you?!?!?
Bill Williamson (2:40 PM)
Jets, Bears, Bucs, Vikings?
Cole (Kansas City)
Who does McDaniels want to be his QB? Do not say Cassel-- he's staying put!
Bill Williamson (2:41 PM)
Cassel .. That's what started this whole mess.
Curtis (Reno, NV)
Bill, bigger need for the Raiders. DT or DE?
Bill Williamson (2:41 PM)
DT.
Tyler (CO)
How important is it to McD to get a "System" guy at QB?
Bill Williamson (2:42 PM)
Clearly, it's very important. McDaniels is a system coach no doubt about it. It's the Patriots' Way or no way with this guy.
Rick (AZ)
Why WOW on Simms!!! Hasn't he shown he can play in the NFL. "They" used to talk like this about his pops until he beat Denver in SB!
Bill Williamson (2:43 PM)
Still sticking with "wow," Rick.
Joe, MN
Why doesn't the chiefs trade Cassell for Cutler, seems to make sense for both sides....
Bill Williamson (2:44 PM)
I've been saying that for five weeks. Makes sense, right?
Rex (CHI)
Rex Grossman to Denver?
Bill Williamson (2:44 PM)
Wow, again.
Jeremy Edwards (Boulder,Colorado)
So I live in Denver but I'm from D.C. and I love Cutler and the skins are my number #1 team so what do you think the chances Snyder will close this deal?
Bill Williamson (2:45 PM)
He's trying to get it done, I know that.
Steven (Huntington Beach,CA)
How long do you think it will be until vick is playing football again?
Bill Williamson (2:45 PM)
I think he comes back in 2010.
Late for class (Chico)
Party vs going to class ratio at Chico State: 90:10
Bill Williamson (2:46 PM)
It slipped to 90, huh?
Vic (Covina, Ca)
Bill, why won't u answer my question regarding Cutler being traded last night to the Bucs as it was reported on am 570 in Los Angeles?
Bill Williamson (2:46 PM)
It hasn't happened. Maybe it was an April's Fools Day joke.
Shawn (San Antonio, TX)
Does Mike Scifers finally beat out Shane Lechler for the Pro Bowl this year?
Bill Williamson (2:49 PM)
That is a sore subject in San Dieog. But I'll tell you this -- they are both big-time punters. Hey, the AFC West may have combined for just 23 wins last season, but this is the home of big-time punters. Take what you can get, I guess.
Nick (Boston)
Wouldn't it be funny if he was traded during this chat session?
Bill Williamson (2:49 PM)
I was worried about that.
Bob ( San Diego, CA)
Bill - With Merriman healthy and a year under Rivera - do you see the Bolts getting closer to the 10 or 11 win mark - or staying around .500 in the mediocare AFCWest? Thanks
Bill Williamson (2:50 PM)
if they stay healthy, I see a 10-11 win team in San Diego.
Sean (TR NJ)
Why no love asked several good questions with respect and not one answer? To busy with the Cutler talk huh?
Bill Williamson (2:51 PM)
We're flying here, Sean. Nothing personal. Try again, I'll try to look at for it. BW.
Bill Williamson (2:51 PM)
Jason (Denver, CO)
hey bill have you talked to the other AFC west teams about the bronco implosion? what are they saying about it?
Dave (WI)
tell me why the Bears aren't more actively involved in the Cutler sweepstakes?? They are a QB away from a SB!
Bill Williamson (2:52 PM)
Here's a hint. I don't think the three other teams in the AFC West are uspet about this deal.
Christopher Phoenix, AZ
I beg you, NO MORE CUTLER. What do you think of the job Pioli is doing in KC?
Bill Williamson (2:53 PM)
Can't ignore the biggest story in the league, bro ... But I think Pioli is the right guy for the job. I think it will work out well.
Chris (Norman,OK)
I just want to say how I think it's a bit odd that so many experts and fans are calling Cutler a baby, when the great Elway did the same thing almost. Not only that, but everyone seems a lot less critical of stars who demand a trade for $. Boldin wants a trade too, but Cutler gets the criticism? Is being greedy really more acceptable than wanting respect from your boss?
Bill Williamson (2:54 PM)
Good points, Chris.
Jon (Bay Area)
Bill, Do you see the Raiders turning things around finally? Or will JRuss continue to struggle with accuracy problems??
Bill Williamson (2:55 PM)
He needs a receiver and his line play has to improve. Let's not write off Russell until he gets a fair shake and he hasn't had much help around him yet.
Sean (TR NJ)
Bill as a Dolphins fan i am happy so far to not hear anyone ask about the Jets does this mean they may not be in contention anymore? I hope so because i dont want to face him and Brady twice in one year.
Bill Williamson (2:56 PM)
There you are, Sean ... I think the Jets are very much in contention. But the Broncos would rather sndn Cutler to the NFC so the Jets wll be challenged to get this deal done.
Shawn (Colorado)
Could you imagine the hype of a Denver vs. Cutler super bowl? You would be very busy
Bill Williamson (2:57 PM)
That may be several years off.
Bob (Chicago, IL)
Hi Bill, are you hearing anything from Shanahan on this whole mess?
Bill Williamson (2:58 PM)
I know he is paying attention. Expect Shanahan to be coaching in 2010. He is already watching film and getting ready. I hear he is fired up.
Sean (TR NJ)
I note the sarcasim, but thanks for the answer lol
Bill Williamson (2:59 PM)
Unintentional.
Bill (Chicago)
Tell me Cutler will be a Bear. What are the odds Angelo can put something together?
Bill Williamson (3:00 PM)
I know they are in it. But I don't know if the Bears have the ammo.
Danny (colorado springs)
Hey if LT has another mediocre year for him (1000+ yds 10+ TDs 50+rec)will he be gone next year?
Bill Williamson (3:01 PM)
I think his health is the biggest issue. If he stays healthy, he'll be productive and thus he will be back in 2010.
Bill Williamson (3:01 PM)
Great hour everyone, thanks. Talk to you next week. BW.
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