Chat with Bill Williamson

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Welcome to SportsNation! On Thursday, ESPN.com AFC West blogger Bill Williamson will stop by to talk about the NFL.

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 Thursday at 2 p.m. ET!

More Bill Williamson: Columns | AFC West blog | Chat | NFL index

Die Hard Broncos Fan (Trapped in Ohio)


Hey BW, other than their tough schedule, what will be the biggest issue for the Broncos this season? I am liking what I am reading about the secondary!

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:02 PM)


The middle of the defense. It has to come through.

will jones (overland park, ks)


Would Cedric Benson be a good fit in Oakland? I've heard the Raiders could be interested.

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:03 PM)


They are interested. Yes, it's a great fit. I think the Raiders needs to make it happen. They need an experienced back behind McFadden. Benson would fill that role.

Jackson56 (Seattle )


Is there a solid answer for the QB position after Palmer is done?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:05 PM)


Well, that's up to Terrelle Pryor. He has a chance to show the Oakland coaching staff he can be the guy after Palmer leaves. If he doens't develop this year, Oakland may look for a QB early in next year's draft.

Andrew (KC)


Not to be a cynic, but do you think the Chiefs and Chargers gave Brian Banks a tryout simply because it is good PR?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:07 PM)


I think they wanted to give him ashot and they did. Nothing wrong with that. If they don't think he can play for them, they shouldn't sign him.I think it'd be a PR move if a team signed him even though it thought he had no chance of even making the practice squad.

Mark (Toronto)


Bill, what's the word on Joe Barksdale? If he can't beat out Barnes for RT should the Raiders be worried about his future?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:09 PM)


Right now, Barnes has the inside track on the job. But Barskdale will be given a chance. If it doesn't happen this year, I wouldn't get too down on him quite yet.

Mark (Toronto)


Imagine you're Dennis Allen. What's your biggest worry come opening day?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:09 PM)


Overall health. The Raiders are not deep. TNey have to stay healthy.

Lee (Phoenix, AZ)


Who starts at LDE, Wolfe or Ayers for the Broncos?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:11 PM)


Probably Ayers with Wolfe playing both end and tackle.

Lee (Phoenix, AZ)


Should the Broncos have drafted a replacement for McGahee rather than drafting a complimentary back like Hillman? If they did go that route, which running back do you think they would have chosen?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:12 PM)


Many peoiple think Denver did draft a starter in Hillman. I know a lot of scouts who think he is the goods.

Tony (Richmond, CA)


David Ausberry is a WR who grew into being a TE. Will he take the next step and become a huge threat/mismatch for Palmer to exploit down the middle of the field in 2012?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:13 PM)


Certainly there is a chance, if he can prove he can play. He still has a long road.

Hootie (San Diego, Ca.)


Hi Bill,Has AJ Smith removed himself from the hot seat in your opinion?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:14 PM)


I don't think that will happen until the Chargers are back in the playoffs. Same goes for Norv.

Mooch (Buffalo)


Hey Bill Bill, Any updates on when Poe will sign. With the 2 picks before his pick signed and multiple picks after him signed (including DT-Cox at #12) shouldnt there be a template to get a deal done. Do u think he will be signed before camp?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:15 PM)


I have no doubt he will be signed by the start of camp.

Trevor (Toronto)


any word on the bowe situation?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:16 PM)


Status quo. Again, not a biggie. He'll report.

Tony (Richmond, CA)


Do you think Denarius Moore will develop into the Raiders #1 WR if he stays healthy?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:17 PM)


He certainly has the ability to do so. It will either be him or DHB this year.

Taylor (Texas)


Which AFC West team is most likely to have a championship caliber defense this season (for me, a championship defense, above all else, is great at rushing the passer and consistently forcing turnovers)?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:19 PM)


I think KC has the best defnese in the division, particulary in the back eight. If Poe at the nose can be an instant difference maker, watch out.

THE Famous Darth (Classy Philly)


At this point right now, who would you take: Rod Streater or Louis Murphy?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:22 PM)


Tough one, Dude. I mean for 2012, it's Murphy. But if Streater is good in the preseason, there has to be a spot for him. I could see Murphy being shopped -- a la Patrick Cratyon -- on cutdown weekend. That is not arreport, just a hunch.

National Master Dave (Denver, CO)


I saw in the Insider that Tyler Wilson should be KC's 1st pick. Is he the best QB after Barkley??

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:24 PM)


I think the dela with QBS is, they go very early in the draft. Look, there were three in the top eight this year and Tannehill is considered risky and he still went No. 8. So if the Arkansas kid is great, the Chiefs will have to trade up for him. Same for Barkley.

Mike (FantasyIsland)


How is Charles doing? Im aiming for him in every fantasy draft, I feel like he'll return to form but base that off of no factual evidence

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:26 PM)


Everything seems to be on pace. But we won't know until we see it.I'm no fantasy guru, but with him coming off the injury and the team brining in Hillis, Perhaps Charles shouldn't be a real ealry fantasy play.

Andy (Chicago)


So the Raiders looking at Benson means what for Goodson?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:26 PM)


It means they are not putting all their eggs in the basket of a guy who had zero carries last year. That's no knock on Goodson, but it's the smart play.

ryan santos (Perryville...MISSOURI )


Should the Chiefs try to lure in a veteren TE behind Boss and Moeaki?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:27 PM)


I know they have looked at some guys, but there isn't much out there.

THE Famous Darth (Classy Philly)


What are your thoughts on Mel Kiper's early prediction of Notre Dame's ILB Manti Te'o to the Raiders?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:28 PM)


If McCLain stinks this year or gets in more off-field trouble, Oakland will have to start thinking of other plans and the Notre Dame kid can play.

Raider Fan (Raiderland)


I think many under value the signing of Phillip Wheeler, he may be the best LB on Oakland's roster. Could he move to MLB where he played in college and put Burris at SLB and Curry at WLB during McClain's suspension?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:30 PM)


OK, but don't overvalue Wheeler, either. So far, he's just been a guy. There was very little interest in him in free agency. That's a sign. I'm not saying he's terrible, but let's see what he does in Oakland's system before singing his praises.

Rodney (Sacramento, CA)


If the Raiders do sign Cedric Benson would that put Oakland back at the top of our Division with the best running back duo? Personally i still think Cedric Benson can put up big numbers and start for some teams. Whats your take?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:31 PM)


Either them or KC. Might give KC the edge.

T. Monster (Pennsylvania)


Do you think the Chargers will stand pat with Whitehurst as the backup QB, or do you think they will try to look at a veteran free agent after the cut deadline? I get in such a lather when I see them settling for mediocrity at the back-up position!

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:32 PM)


So far, I think they plan on sticking with Whitehurst. Yes, scary.

PT (Franklin, NC)


Would you not argue that the Raiders this year are deeper than the Raiders who went 8-8 last year, and if not, at what positions do they have less depth than last years roster?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:33 PM)


CB, LB, TE, RB.

1904 (the finest city in america )


Bill,Going to Vegas tonight. Do i make it back alive?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:33 PM)


Over/under Saturdya night.

THE Famous Darth (Classy Philly)


Concerned about Raiders C Stefan Wisniewski's surgerically repaired shoulder?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:34 PM)


Nah, he's tough as nails. He played with it when was torn. He'll be fine with it repaired.

Tony (Richmond, CA)


Who will be the AFC West ROY?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:35 PM)


I'ma big Melvin Ingram guy. I expect big things right away.

Daniel Sams (Manhattan )


What's the story with RB Jackie Battle? Coming off of his best season, all of a sudden he finds himself unemployed.

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:38 PM)


JAG: Just A Guy.

Tay Bender (Lincoln )


Are you buying the recent Ricky Stanzi hype? Is he really a QB of the future or just doomed to be a backup?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:39 PM)


Not yet. I look forward to seeing him this summer. I think he has a chance to be a good backup. I'd be surprised if it goes beyound that.

Bash (Olathe, KS)


What is your opinion on Chiefs RB Cyrus Gray?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:39 PM)


Good prospect. Maybe play special teams as a rookie.

chris (cherry hill, nj)


Hey Bill, who has the best OL going into next year?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:42 PM)


I don't think there are any great O-lines in the division right now. For the moment, I think K.C. has a chance to be the best, but it's fluid between all four lines.

Randy (Grove, OK)


You are on of the few in the national media showing love for my Chiefs. Is it just the fact that we have Matt Cassel as our QB or is Manning fever hitting the whole country?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:43 PM)


I think those are the two biggest reasons why the Chiefs are flying under the radar.

Mark (Toronto)


Who do you think wins the Raiders nickel back gig?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:43 PM)


Justa guess: Chewka.

Holden Caulfield (Pency Prep)


B-Dub, now that the Chargers have Eddie Royal, do you think he'll continue to be used as a PR?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:43 PM)


Ye. He can be dymanic in that role.

angel_2win (afc west blog)


any word on the progress of Eddie McGee? seems Criner has outshined him so far.

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:44 PM)


You can only have so manyprospects at a position. Criner and Streater seem to have the edge at this point.

Scott (Northglenn, CO)


Would it make sense for the Broncos to offer a 6th rounder for Colt McCoy if/when Caleb Hanie proves in preaseason that they need a better backup?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:45 PM)


Always something to consider, I guess.

Scott (Northglenn, CO)


If Percy Harvin is truly available, would you be on board with the Broncos offering a 2nd rounder? A first?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:46 PM)


A second would be tempting.

Ross (NY)


What's your favorite team?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:47 PM)


San Francisco Giants. 2-5 in their last seven. Chapping my tail.

Jamal (Hawaii)


What happened to Marcus Thomas DT in Denver?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:48 PM)


I guess he could come back but they have semeed to move on. DT depth isn't as big of a problem as it was a few months ago.

Randy (Grove, OK)


The Chiefs have an "elite" player at saftey in Eric Berry. My question is can Kendrick Lewis become an elite player for the Chiefs?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:51 PM)


I know some scouts who really like him. Playing with Berry again will help. The word 'elite' is used for a reason, because there aren't too many great players. So I hesitate to say Lewis willl be elite. Let's say 'good.'

Sergio Quintero (Tijuana, Mexico)


Hi Bill, what do you expect of the chargers corners in 2012, they really like they took a step backwards last year, will an emphasis on more pressure result in play similar to 2010? Do you think Jammer is regressing or was it just a bad year?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:52 PM)


I don't think it is a super strong suit for the team, but I think Jammer and Cason are good enough. There are worse pairs in the NFL than those two.

Mark (Toronto)


Based on OTAs, is there any word on whether or not there's a "Pryor package"? Does he see the field for more than a play?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:52 PM)


I think we coluld see one emerge. He is too ahtletic not to have a plan for him.

Eron (Wyoming)


Which WR currently has the edge for becoming Manning's favorite target? Decker seems to be bonding well with Peyton, but I've heard that Thomas has been torching CBs in practice. What's your take?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:53 PM)


I think Thomas is the better player, but Decker may be the player Manning looks for more often. Either way, I think these two will be a strong starting tandem.

Randy (Grove, OK)


The Chiefs seem to be building an offense that is totally the opposite of where the league seems to be heading. A lot of other teams are airing it out but the Chiefs will be built around the running game. Can a team win it all with that type of running offense in today's NFL?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:54 PM)


But look at all those receiving weapons. This is a varied offense.

Rodney (Sacramento, CA)


Oh so you'll answer Andy's question about Cedric but not mine? what if i said i was from Chicago too, would that help get my question answered?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:56 PM)


So you expected to be the only who asked about Benson?

Ross (NY)


Carter or Moore at FS?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:57 PM)


My guess: Carter.

Jeffsown (SD, not South Dakota)


Hey Bill, what do you expect from John Pagano? Can he mold a consistent top 10 defense like his older brother did for the Ravens?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:57 PM)


He is a Wade Phillips' guy. I expect that type of defense.

JC (KC)


What would you consider a successful season for Dontari Poe? Should we expect him to play all 3 downs this year?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:58 PM)


If he starts the entire season and plugs the hole. Nose tackle success is not based on stats.

Fett (Slave One)


If the Broncos don't make it to the AFC Championship Game, will this year be a failure???...AND, will the blame be thrown on Elway/Fox like everyone jumps on AJSmith/Norval, Al Davis (rip) or Matt Cassel?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:59 PM)


I don't think this sia one eyar deal, so no, not a failure.

Dexter (AZ)


So who do you belive will emerge as the #1 WR for the Bolts (Meechem, Floyd)?

Bill WIlliamson
  (2:59 PM)


FLoyd if he stays healthy.

TomWill (AFCWest Blog)


Your feelings on the NFC South vs. the AFC West this year?

Bill WIlliamson
  (3:00 PM)


I think the AFC West better hope Tampa Bay struggles, because the other three teams are strong. Not too many breaks.

Sergio Quintero (Tijuana, Mexico)


Hi Bill, early reports are that Antonio Gates is healthy what are your expectations for him this season? Thoughts on him not making the Top 100 players?

Bill WIlliamson
  (3:01 PM)


Another big year.

bob (SD)


who will have a better chance at making the team edwin baker, or mike hayes

Bill WIlliamson
  (3:01 PM)


I'd say Baker right now.

AJ (Oakland)


True or False: The AFC W is the strongest QB division in football

Bill WIlliamson
  (3:01 PM)


False.

AJ (Oakland)


Reports from camp have been that Pryor is a hard worker and good kid, but hasn't looked so great at QB. Is it time to try him at TE?

Bill WIlliamson
  (3:02 PM)


Let's see what he cna do at QB after another year.

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