ESPN

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:03 PM)

Hi folks, how's everyone? Hope you've seen the big column today on Tony Ugoh.I will dive right in...

T.J. (Ft. Myers)

Great article about Tony Ugoh. Now I know LT is a key position, but overall, despite or with Tony, how do you think the O-line will hold up? I think more than anything, depletion there caused Indy's "underachievement" last year. Thoughts?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:04 PM)

Yes, injury-depletion hurt most. Lilja, if he's back and back to himself, will help settle things down. And Ugoh needs to be better.

Rickey Henderson (Hall of Fame)

PK you are great, but Rickey is the greatest of all-time.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:05 PM)

So he/you like to tell us.

Chad (H-town)

So the Texans and Dunta Robinson are prohibited from talking long term contract until next offseason? Do you think he will miss any regular season games?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:06 PM)

Prohibited until after the final regular season game, yes.I don't see why he wouldn't want to play in every game he can. Sign the tender middle to late camp, work 10 days, get to the season.

Titans773 (Nashville, TN)

So the Jags were picked (at least by SI) last year to have a very, very good season. The Titans decimate their offensive line in Week 1 and they go on to be terrible. So assuming that the OL was the difference last year, why are the Jags being looked at as the worst in the division just one year later when the line is now healthy and has been reloaded with some draft picks?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:09 PM)

Well last year a lot of people were thinking a lot of other things, many of which also blew up.That Jerry Porter would be a good addition, that the LBs would blossom, that the two rookies ends would have a big impact, that Reggie Nelson would be better, that Drayton Florence would help.They expected Fred Taylor to be a big part of things too.It's not like everything that made them likeable stayed exactly the same and the line got healthy and better. A whole bunch of stuff blew up and/or has changed.I picked them third last year, and right now I think they are fourth.Do you honestly think they have the personnel that the rest of the division does?

travis (jacksonville)

Do you think having a young team, and alot of turnover from last season will hurt the jaguars get off to a fast start against 3 division opponents in the first 4 games?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:10 PM)

I'd expect it will take them a while to find their bearings, but you never know.

Spencer Weston (Knoxville, Tennessee)

Hey Mr. Kuharsky first time trying this chat thing. I am a big Gonzo fan, he is my favorite reciever to throw to in madden. I have compared Wayne and Gonzo's 2nd season and they look very similar. In Waynes 3rd season he had 838 yards and 7td which comes out to about 100 more yards and 3 more tds. Is this a more reasonable guess for Gonzo's next season than the high, in my opinion, estimate of 1000 yards and double digit tds? oh and love the blog.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:12 PM)

I think Gonzo stands to have a bigger second season than Wayne, based on that.Thanks...

Ryan (Houston)

Paul, still taking tips on the new chat design? It should be designed like a spreadsheet so I can act like I am doing something

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:12 PM)

Always thinking!

Robby (Deleware)

How much work would do the Titans have ahead of them on working on Chris Johnson as a reciver? I know he played in high school and coming into college but does he have pro calibur routes and enough to be successful if the Titans motion him out wide?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:13 PM)

He's fine if they motion him wide. I'm sure he can get better, but he did it comfortably when asked last season, just wasn't very often. But he was doing it in camp.

Jason (DC)

As Mr. Ugoh's attorney, I am moving to strike the testimony by the three prosecution witnesses because their anonymity violates my client's fifth amendment right to confront his accusers.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:15 PM)

Life is tough in the big city. It's customary that personnel people evaluate guys without attaching their name to it, and I assure you they are credible people you've heard from before. The player was kind to be willing to be completely honest as well.

Tony Ugoh (Indy)

So, were you the guy that has been spying on my family in the bushes the past week?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:16 PM)

No, man. All of that was reported a while ago. I'm trying to rest up for camp too.

Cameron (Monterey, CA)

Hey Paul, I love your Survey Says series. Anyways, I was watching NFL network the other night and the Titans were part of the 32 teams in 32 days, comming in at number 6. Do you agree with there assessment of the Titans only winning 9 or 10 games?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:17 PM)

Thanks. More Survey says to come.I don't think saying they win nine or 10 is outrageous. I fell like it'll be in the range of 11.

Ben (Nashville)

Why can't Jacksonville sell out their stadium, or even get close enough to not have to close off entire sections of the upper deck? If they were a winning team, would they sell out or are the fans that hopeless?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:18 PM)

They've got problems, for sure.But when you clobber them for the tarps, you appear uninformed. Even WITH the tarps, their place is bigger than Soldier Field.Do you think Jacksonville should be expected to fill a stadium bigger than Chicago does?

Matt (IN)

After thinking more about the Ugoh column, I was wondering, do you think what those non-Colts people were really saying is that they think Ugoh is soft?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:19 PM)

Of course they were.

Andrew (Atlanta, GA)

Who has the most impact as a rookie: K. Britt, D. Brown, B. Cushing or E. Monroe?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:19 PM)

Cushing one, Brown two.

Todd (Allentown)

I would like to nominate the Jags signing Sean Considine as the most underrated of the offseason. He signed for a mere $3m over two years and will give Del Rio the type of player he covets. A very smart leader who also has good athleticism.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:20 PM)

And are you his brother or brother-in-law?I know Vic rated him as the best safety of the offseason and that's encouraging. But let's not go crazy. And maybe it also means the others were bad?

Harish (Fargo ND)

Paul,Why is everyone down on colts? I have been hearing about pats, steelers and chargers making the SB trip, but no love for the team that had 12 wins in the past 5 seasons. What do you predict?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:22 PM)

I think they will be right in the thick of it, top of a second tier of AFC contenders behind Pitt and NE. There are always trendy teams people say will breakout or breakdown. People see coaching change, Harrison gone, staff alterations and from afar presume all of that is bad.

SprungOnSports (Long Island)

Do you think there's any chance Derrick Mason comes back, based on all the years you've covered him?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:23 PM)

Based on all the years I covered him, I don't know his propensity for changing his mind on a big decision.Not impossible. But the tone of the comments suggested he's done, and I am sure the McNair stuff weighed into his decision.Timing was bad for Baltimore, which is a lot less good without him.

Finley (via mobile)

Why does your chat bio say "The New Jersey native and Columbia graduate lives in Nashville with his wife."? Why haven't you gotten it edited to include me?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:23 PM)

I don't want to be that guy. I do talk you up in here, however.

Sean Q (Binghamton, NY)

It didn't seem so at the time, but Greg Williams as the Jags D was a terrible mistake. It ruined their identity, and coupling with the seemingly utter lack of team unity really hurt the Jaguars. This year I think the defense should regain it's identity if a few things go right for once:Johnny Henderson needs to get over himselfOur two prized 2nd year D-ends need to be as good as advertisedCompetition at safety needs to result in more turnoversSomeone needs to outright win the second D tackle position...and the linebackers have to steal the showIf those things go as planned, why wouldn't the Jags D be as fearsome as that of the good days?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:25 PM)

That's a pretty long list of a few things that need to go right.If all those stars align, sure they can be good. A lot of stars though. By my count, your comment touches on at least nine guys and they only play 11 at a time.

Tyler (Indiana)

Hey Paul thanks for changing the chat system. The old stuff was blocked so I never got to enjoy a chat. How long did it take you to design this one, Paul?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:25 PM)

I have been working on it for some time. Thanks for acknowledging all the work.

tom (hackensack)

Do you see similar timeshare between chris johnson and lunchdale this year? i almost feel like they feed johnson the rock more and say goodbye to white at the end of the year...thoughts?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:27 PM)

A little more Johnson than last year if all is going well, but still touches in prime situations for LW.I won't be surprised if they are finished with White after this season.

Tyler (Scranton PA)

Hi Paul. Is there any chance the Titans will get more offensive production from Alge Crumpler. I know he helped greatly in blocking for CJ and LenDale, but he seemed to be invisible as a receiver(until he fumbled at the 5 yard line in the playoff game)

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:28 PM)

He pretty much was used as their blocking TE. And with Cook joining Scaife now, Crumpler is the third most attractive option as a pass catching TE. Very slow too.So no, I see him doing more of what he did last year. They hope without a bad fumble at the end of it.

Brandon (cincinnati, OH)

In the world's bizzarest 4 team trade ever, peyton manning is shipped to the Titans, who send Cortland Finnegan and KVB to the Texans, who send Andre Johnson to the Jaguars who send MJD to the Colts. What is the division rankings at the end of the season?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:29 PM)

Bizarre. Have you pondered this long?Texans, Titans, Jaguars, Colts?

Chase (Nashville)

A statue for Mac9 too much or the right thing to do? I think based on what he meant to/did for the city as a professional football player, which is what a statue would represent, it would be the right way to remember him...

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:30 PM)

Can it wait a while? Everything doesn't have to be immediate, does it?

Ryan (Miami)

Last year DeAngelo Williams and Michael Turner came out of no where and had monster seasons. Who do you think might be the big breakout candidates this year?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:32 PM)

I think Donald Brown and Beanie Wells could do big things. Trying to think of second-year or relocated RBs.Felix Jones and Rashard Mendenhall.

Charles (Goodlettsville)

Any chance Baltimore ponies up decent money for Marvin Harrison to fill the Mason void?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:33 PM)

Possible. First they have to judge him as to have something left. Then he has to be willing to go there. They aren't going to pay a ton.

travis (jacksonville)

Ive been hearing more and more rumors on the jags playing some 3-4. The John Henderson/del rio show has me worried about the DL. I still think the Jags should have drafted Raji instead of monroe. Then we would be able to play some jaguars defense like a couple years ago

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:34 PM)

It's not a rumor. They've said they will play some 3-4 and it makes sense. Groves fits that better, and they don't have a second DT (they may not have a first DT) while they should be better at LB.I liked Raji for them as well, thinking of him next to Henderson. But Monroe is going to be a bedrock guy for them for a long time.

Matt (IN)

Is it really a big deal that the Jags aren't showing the preseason games? I think NFL preseason games are one of the biggest rip offs around. I literally could not give away my 2 season tickets for the preseason games last year, even though the team was opening up a beautiful new stadium.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:35 PM)

People think it's a rip off, so they don't buy tickets and watch at least the start on TV. So yes it's a big deal. Not being on TV is NEVER OK.

Craig G. (Fairfield, CA)

Hey Paul, I enjoy your insight and coverage. What rookie do you think will make the biggest impact in the AFC South division?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:36 PM)

Said earlier I think Cushing and Brown will be 1-2 in this department. But there is certainly room for big contributions from kids like the DTs in Indy, the TE or WR in Tennessee and the corner or DT in Jax.

DJ (KC)

Favorite Subway sandwich?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:37 PM)

Meatball. But Sunbay is way overrated. We've got Jersey Mike's -- which if you know my geographical background is a tremendous thing to find in Music City.

Harry (Fargo ND)

Dont you think lendale was pretty stupid to stomp on the terrible towels? Wille is not fast anymore and you never know about mendenhall, so he could have been a possible answer for steelers after this season. Bottomline is, as NFL being a business, why arent the players more careful in doing stuff which would hurt their prospects with another team?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:39 PM)

Don't recall the Steelers bringing in a lot of free agents, so this is moot.But if they loved LenDale White's game and wanted to pay him, they'd have him apologize at the press conference.

Steve (Minneapolis)

What kind of impact do you see Percy Harvin having for the Vikings this season? That is, if he doesn't fall ill right before every game.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:39 PM)

I fear he's trouble.

travis (jacksonville)

i really like this format, with the fans being able to ask guys like you and vic ketchman (Ask Vic of the Jaguars) questions. Do you recommend any other writers to follow and learn new things about in the NFL?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:40 PM)

Seven other ESPN.com bloggers on the other divisions are all great. Matt Maiocco at Instant 49ers at the Santa Rosa paper is fantastic. Definitely check him out.

Chase (Nashville)

I completely agree. Climer had an article in the Tennessean last week on the subject and I was just curious as to what you thought...of course they shouldn't do it immediately...

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:41 PM)

Because taking your time to decide something big is almost always better than deciding two minutes ago.Let things settle down. Put a patch on the jersey or helmet. Then see.

Rahn (Philly)

Jeremy Jarmon: Usual Redskin stiff? Another instance of Cerrato getting hoodwinked into forfeiting a valuable third-rounder? Gotta be.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:41 PM)

He may be good, but you didn't see anyone else doing it did you?

Ulises (Texas)

It seems like lately you have been praising Cushing, and even ranking him as being the #1 rookie to have the biggest impact on the Texans. What about Cushing have you seen to make you think this? I feel the same but then again, I drink the kool-aid...

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:43 PM)

I think he can cover and rush and gives them something in the linebacking corps they've been missing. It's the biggest, best talented rookie into a hole in the division.

violeta (IN)

I do not agree with what you said in your comment I will say Titans, Texans, Colts and Jaguars

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:44 PM)

Colts with Sorgi would be horrific. Let's be clear that order was based on a crazy, hypothetical four-way trade.

DJ (KC)

If i had a date where you live w should i take her too? Food wise

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:44 PM)

Cafe Margo.

Mr. Persistent (bluegrass, ky)

Paul -- long time reader, THIRD TIME ASKING THE SAME QUESTION: your favorites for the Colts 3rd WR

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:45 PM)

Not Hall. I'd guess Garcon at the start but Collie could have more upside.

Tim Graham (ESPN)

I knew you loved me!

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:45 PM)

Only you would see "seven others" and think "me, me, me..."

Eddie Bird (Terre Haute)

Kuharsky - when in Terre Haute for colts camp, you should try out Maurizio's pizza on Wabash - nice place, good pizza, spaghetti, and sandwiches.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:46 PM)

I believe I was there last year. Thanks. I shall solicit recommendations before each voyage.

Charles (Goodlettsville)

What's the over/under on the number of injuries T-Rac causes this year?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:47 PM)

Causes or suffers?He's looking pretty fit, saw him last week. One man wrecking crew. Damn squirrel.

Ryan (FL)

Is Joseph Addai finished?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:47 PM)

Not close.

Titans773 (Nashville, TN)

What are you seeing/hearing about Ringer for the Titans. If LenDale goes is it CJ/Rigner as the 2010 combo?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:48 PM)

As crazy as it seems, I think they'll decide on the 2010 combo after seeing how people play in 2009. In OTAs, which are usually meaningless, Ringer has looked average and dropped a lot of balls.Which probably means he's the next Walter Payton.

Medhi Draoua (Jackson)

So in the new Madden10 rankings, Kerry Collins is rated in the 70's. I realize he's no Peyton Manning or Tom Brady, but shouldn't he be at least in the low 80's? Same for Matt Schaub.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:49 PM)

One shot deal since it wasn't clear in each of my posts about AFC South Madden rankings:There are few things I care less about than what a video game says a player can or can't do.Graham would love to talk with you about this in great detail. Hit his mailbag.

Clay (Jacksonville)

Jumped on late Paul. Just wanted to thank you for the comment in response to Ben from Nashville's post. I'm sick of these clowns not realizing the true size of that stadium.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:50 PM)

You're welcome. It's an important point.But it doesn't mean the Jags don't have major ticket problems.

Dustin (Stanford CA)

What is up with Sen'Derrick Marks? How come he doesn't have a buzz around him like Cook or Britt?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:50 PM)

Because they didn't put the ball in his hands in OTAs.

Dustin (Stanford CA)

I noticed William Hayes is listed ahead of Jacob Ford on the Off-Season depth chart for the Titans? Is he that improved? Ford was second on the team in sacks last year.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:52 PM)

Offseason depth charts mean little. Most teams don't put one out, I don't think.Did it have Dave Ball starting opposite KVB? Cause that's what Washburn said he would do if the season started in mid-June.

John (Denver)

Better WR tandem this year? AJ and Kevin Walter or Wayne and Gonzo

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:52 PM)

Great question. Think it will be close. Leaning towards the duo with a better QB who doesn't miss games.

Scott Duffy (Tempe, AZ)

I agree that the Jags first 4 games will be tough, and will likely bury them in the division quick. Will Wayne Weaver allow JDR to finish the season if they get off to like a 2-5 start, but show improvement?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:54 PM)

Yes. In season coaching changes aren't real effective unless things go terribly sour, and the replacement has to come from the staff. Tice?I think JDR will be safe beyond this season if they show forward progress, and I expect they will.

Chase (Nashville)

Which rookie CB will have a bigger, if any, impact for the Titans, Mouton or McCourty?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:54 PM)

They hope neither. But it should be Mouton based on draft position.

Alex (Cookeville, TN)

If you could only pick 1 Titans home game to attend next year that wasn't a divisional opponent, which would you choose to go to?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:55 PM)

Arizona over San Diego.

Finley (via mobile)

I asked for some kibbles and bits a while ago and you didn't respond. We haven't been communicating well and I feel left in the dark.

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:55 PM)

Dinner's at 7 and you get treats when you come in the house. You know the deal.

Sammy (Houston)

if the texans play .500 football within the division. do they make the playoffs?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:56 PM)

I don't think so. Gimmie 4-2.

Todd (Indy)

Care to hazard a projected sack number for D-Free

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:56 PM)

Not really. More than several?

Charles (Goodlettsville)

Why in the world is Ringer not signed yet? The 3rd and 4th rounders got done, so shouldn't he?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:57 PM)

Don't panic Charles. It's two full weeks to camp still.

Mike (Chicago)

If you say Addai is a one man wrecking crew after seeing him how can you say Brown is going to have a breakout season? Did Addai lose his starting role?

Paul Kuharsky

  (3:59 PM)

Did I say Addai was a one-man wrecking crew? Nope. Said he's not done. Giant difference.WHo starts means nothing if the carries are roughly split in half. They were when everything was counted for Addai and Rhodes last season. I know Addai missed a couple games.But starting at several spots in the NFL can be largely ceremonial: RB, DT, MLB on some teams that play a lot of nickel.

Frank Costanza (NYC)

I just worked out with a dumbell - I feel vigorous!What are the odds I can be the Colts third receiver this year?

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:00 PM)

Say 10 Serenity Nows a day and return to chat next week for further instructions.

Marcelo Arantes (Volta Redonda (Brasil))

Was Cook That good at OTAs?

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:00 PM)

His good stuff was great. But you can't get too excited, he didn't take a hit.

Charles (Nashville, TN)

Think Chris Davis can hang on? He seemed to help himself in the underwear practices. Or will he get lost in the mix once contact becomes a factor?

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:01 PM)

I think he needs the return jobs to be open for as long as possible. But he has gotten a lot better.

Evan (Indiana)

How many fantasy football leagues will you be in this year Paul?

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:01 PM)

Probably two. Average finish: likely 8th. (Generous.)

Walter Burgess (Boone, NC)

What do you think about Julius Peppers getting the franchise tag, I heard that they will keep the franchise tag on him so they don't sign him long term, I would think that a player of his magnitude would deserve more respect from his team

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:02 PM)

What disrespect to gurantee him $16 million. How dare they!Yesterday was the deadline on a long-term deal. They can't work on one now until the 2009 regular season is over.I think he will manage with that.

Jeff Fisher (Nashville)

Remember the music city miracle?!?!?! Those were some good times.

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:02 PM)

Back when you used to win playoff games.

Charles (Goodlettsville)

What's the worst time of year, sports writer wise?

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:03 PM)

NFL writer wise, July is slowest and August is busiest. I like Sept.-Feb.

Ryan (FL)

Who is the best linebacker in the AFC south?

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:04 PM)

I'm thinking Bulluck.

violeta (IN)

No Indy draft guys are sign . What are they waing for

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:04 PM)

Too early to be concerned. And they don't rush to announce them. Maybe they've agreed with one or two already.

Kevin (New York)

If Alexander beats out Nelson for the starting job, any chance they can trade Nelson for a DT?

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:05 PM)

Highly unlikely. It's not baseball. Player for player deals are rare, and considering they just made one it could be years before they do it again.

Peter (Nashville)

Will you be at the Kings of Leon concert at the Ryman in October?

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:06 PM)

Hope so, but haven't bought tix yet.

Chase (Nashville)

what about Cary Williams...i know you're fond of the "Harper isn't washed up" position, and i agree...if both are healthy and 100% for training camp, does Williams have the potential to surpass Harper?

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:06 PM)

No.

Rob (Orange Park, FL)

Darryl Smith is a better LB than Bullock, IMO.

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:07 PM)

Not last year he wasn't. Not close. I expected big things and didn't see a lot.

Demeco Ryans (Houston)

I am the best Linebacker in the AFC South! You are biased and nuts!

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:08 PM)

You are top three. And if Amobi is healthy and Smith kicks inside on pass downs, I think you'll have a very good year.I bet you'd tell me Bulluck is better than you.

Matt (IN)

So, are you still cursing the people who scheduled the Bruce concert for the same night as the season opener?

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:10 PM)

I am. He played here last year. Before that it was 99. Bad crowd in 99 probably explained the long gap. Now he comes back a second time in 13 months, will get a bad crowd and stay away 10 more years. It's awful luck.

John (Woodbridge, NJ)

The Giants D-Line is stacked. Is it the best in football?

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:10 PM)

Top three for sure.

Mad Mike (Houston, TX)

Paul: As I sit here sipping on my St.Arnolds Summer Pilsner can you tell me what you can get out of watching OTA's regarding the rookie draft picks and FA's as to weather they understand what the offense or defense is trying to accomplish or weather they do not get it. Is there anything else you can take from OTA's? Thanks.......MM

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:11 PM)

Does the coordinator yell, "No you dumb @%*^*#?Does the position coach look happy or angry?

Ryan (Fl)

I dont know why but Michael Vick in Tennesee makes sense to me with Chris Johnson in the offense.

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:17 PM)

I don't know why either.

Paul Kuharsky

  (4:20 PM)

OK folks, that's a wrap. Excellent stuff. You were the smartest guy here. Check me out at these fine web destinations: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Paul.Kuharsky.ESPN">Facebook</a> | <a href="http://twitter.com/espn_afcsouth">Twitter</a>