AFC North: Cleveland Browns
Cleveland Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden told The Plain Dealer that he wasn't given any advance warning that the team was going to sign Brian Hoyer, and that he hasn't been told of Hoyer's role.
Weeden"It's part of this business, and if you start worrying about it, that's too much to worry about," Weeden said. "That's my mentality going forward."
What you won't hear Weeden say -- but you know he has to be thinking -- is that he likes his chances of remaining the Browns' starting quarterback. The Browns didn't trade for Alex Smith, a former No. 1 overall pick who has led a team to the NFC Championship Game. Cleveland didn't draft a quarterback such as Geno Smith in the first round.
Instead, the Browns signed Jason Campbell and Hoyer, who is likely the last offseason addition for Cleveland that involves a quarterback. While Weeden understands why the Browns aren't going to hand over the starting quarterback job to him, he also knows he could have faced stiffer competition for it. Campbell and Hoyer are journeyman who combined to play for seven teams (including their latest stop with the Browns) since 2009.
Campbell is an upgrade at the No. 2 quarterback spot over Colt McCoy, and Hoyer is clearly better than Thad Lewis at No. 3. Still, Weeden has to be considered the favorite to line up under center Sept. 8 against the Miami Dolphins.
Many forget that Weeden threw for 3,385 yards last season, which was more than rookies Robert Griffin III, Ryan Tannehill and Russell Wilson. Now, Weeden's strong arm should be better utilized in a vertical passing attack compared to Pat Shurmur's West Coast offense.
The Browns haven't endorsed Weeden as their starter yet, but they really haven't sent a message with any move that they're ready to replace him this season. Weeden doesn't seemed fazed by having to compete for the job.
"I realize I didn't play as well as I could've last year and I know the work I've put in personally," Weeden said. "I know how hard I've worked to become a better player off the field and training and whatever may be. I'm not worried about the other stuff. I'm confident in my abilities and I have a lot of confidence in the guys around me."
In the first update on the quarterback battle, the Canton Repository reported that Campbell "definitely had better sessions than Weeden" at minicamp. Of course, this is only May and Campbell was working against the second-string defense.
Browns coach Rob Chudzinski told The NFL Network this week that he's really positive about Weeden.
"He's taken a command of the offense," Chudzinski said. "He's shown from an arm strength and from an accuracy standpoint, he's made tremendous strides on footwork and getting the ball out quicker."
What you won't hear Weeden say -- but you know he has to be thinking -- is that he likes his chances of remaining the Browns' starting quarterback. The Browns didn't trade for Alex Smith, a former No. 1 overall pick who has led a team to the NFC Championship Game. Cleveland didn't draft a quarterback such as Geno Smith in the first round.
Instead, the Browns signed Jason Campbell and Hoyer, who is likely the last offseason addition for Cleveland that involves a quarterback. While Weeden understands why the Browns aren't going to hand over the starting quarterback job to him, he also knows he could have faced stiffer competition for it. Campbell and Hoyer are journeyman who combined to play for seven teams (including their latest stop with the Browns) since 2009.
Campbell is an upgrade at the No. 2 quarterback spot over Colt McCoy, and Hoyer is clearly better than Thad Lewis at No. 3. Still, Weeden has to be considered the favorite to line up under center Sept. 8 against the Miami Dolphins.
Many forget that Weeden threw for 3,385 yards last season, which was more than rookies Robert Griffin III, Ryan Tannehill and Russell Wilson. Now, Weeden's strong arm should be better utilized in a vertical passing attack compared to Pat Shurmur's West Coast offense.
The Browns haven't endorsed Weeden as their starter yet, but they really haven't sent a message with any move that they're ready to replace him this season. Weeden doesn't seemed fazed by having to compete for the job.
"I realize I didn't play as well as I could've last year and I know the work I've put in personally," Weeden said. "I know how hard I've worked to become a better player off the field and training and whatever may be. I'm not worried about the other stuff. I'm confident in my abilities and I have a lot of confidence in the guys around me."
In the first update on the quarterback battle, the Canton Repository reported that Campbell "definitely had better sessions than Weeden" at minicamp. Of course, this is only May and Campbell was working against the second-string defense.
Browns coach Rob Chudzinski told The NFL Network this week that he's really positive about Weeden.
"He's taken a command of the offense," Chudzinski said. "He's shown from an arm strength and from an accuracy standpoint, he's made tremendous strides on footwork and getting the ball out quicker."
For the past two weeks, the AFC North blog has ranked the positions in the division. Some positions were easy (running back was straightforward) and others were not (wide receiver and secondary were the toughest for me).
To review all of the positions, I asked ESPN's Matt Williamson to provide his rankings, which we can compare to mine. Surprisingly, they were very similar. We only disagreed on the top rankings at two positions: wide receiver and tight end.
At wide receiver, I had the Steelers at No. 1 followed by the Bengals and Williamson had them reversed, with Cincinnati as the best group. I can understand putting the Bengals first because they have the division's top receiver in A.J. Green. There's no one close. My decision was based on Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders being a better tandem than Green and Mohamed Sanu.
It was the same situation at tight end, where I had the Ravens at the top and the Bengals second. Williamson put the Bengals at No. 1 and the Ravens right behind them. I believe the Bengals have a chance to have the best tight ends, especially if Tyler Eifert surpasses the expectations for a rookie. But I went with Baltimore right now because Dennis Pitta could have the most catches by any tight end in the division (especially if Heath Miller is sidelined for a period of time) and Ed Dickson played his best football last season after Jim Caldwell took over as offensive coordinator.
Williamson said the offensive line was the toughest position to rank on offense.
"I actually think Pittsburgh's front five will be noticeably improved from a year ago, but the other three teams in the division could feature top-10 type offensive lines," Williamson said. "In the end, I went with Cleveland slightly over the Bengals and Ravens, even though I have some minor concerns about the Browns' guards."
My thought process with the offensive line was similar. The Browns' weak spot is their guards, but the rest of the line (tackles Joe Thomas and Mitchell Schwartz along with center Alex Mack) is so good that Cleveland deserves to be No. 1.
On defense, Williamson called ranking the cornerbacks "a tough chore."
"By putting Baltimore and Cleveland at the top in this group, I went with star power over depth, as I am a huge fan of Joe Haden and Lardarius Webb, who might just be the Ravens' best defensive player as he returns from injury," Williamson said. "The Bengals have a lot of capable bodies at corner and Leon Hall is a well-above-average starter, while Pittsburgh also features a very solid cornerback in Ike Taylor and some intriguing young talent."
In case you missed any of my rankings, simply click on the position to see how the AFC North teams stack up at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, tight end, offensive line, defensive line, linebacker, secondary and special teams.
To review all of the positions, I asked ESPN's Matt Williamson to provide his rankings, which we can compare to mine. Surprisingly, they were very similar. We only disagreed on the top rankings at two positions: wide receiver and tight end.
At wide receiver, I had the Steelers at No. 1 followed by the Bengals and Williamson had them reversed, with Cincinnati as the best group. I can understand putting the Bengals first because they have the division's top receiver in A.J. Green. There's no one close. My decision was based on Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders being a better tandem than Green and Mohamed Sanu.
It was the same situation at tight end, where I had the Ravens at the top and the Bengals second. Williamson put the Bengals at No. 1 and the Ravens right behind them. I believe the Bengals have a chance to have the best tight ends, especially if Tyler Eifert surpasses the expectations for a rookie. But I went with Baltimore right now because Dennis Pitta could have the most catches by any tight end in the division (especially if Heath Miller is sidelined for a period of time) and Ed Dickson played his best football last season after Jim Caldwell took over as offensive coordinator.
Williamson said the offensive line was the toughest position to rank on offense.
"I actually think Pittsburgh's front five will be noticeably improved from a year ago, but the other three teams in the division could feature top-10 type offensive lines," Williamson said. "In the end, I went with Cleveland slightly over the Bengals and Ravens, even though I have some minor concerns about the Browns' guards."
My thought process with the offensive line was similar. The Browns' weak spot is their guards, but the rest of the line (tackles Joe Thomas and Mitchell Schwartz along with center Alex Mack) is so good that Cleveland deserves to be No. 1.
On defense, Williamson called ranking the cornerbacks "a tough chore."
"By putting Baltimore and Cleveland at the top in this group, I went with star power over depth, as I am a huge fan of Joe Haden and Lardarius Webb, who might just be the Ravens' best defensive player as he returns from injury," Williamson said. "The Bengals have a lot of capable bodies at corner and Leon Hall is a well-above-average starter, while Pittsburgh also features a very solid cornerback in Ike Taylor and some intriguing young talent."
In case you missed any of my rankings, simply click on the position to see how the AFC North teams stack up at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, tight end, offensive line, defensive line, linebacker, secondary and special teams.
Eight in the Box: Returning from injury
May, 17, 2013
May 17
12:00
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
» NFC Eight in the Box: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
A look at key players for each AFC North team who are coming back from injuries:
Baltimore Ravens: Cornerback Lardarius Webb. The Ravens need their top cornerback to return to his old form, especially with Cary Williams going to the Eagles in free agency. Webb tore his ACL in October and missed the final 10 games of the regular season. Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Webb "should be ready to roll" by training camp. Baltimore could bring him along slowly and limit his playing time in the preseason. But, based on this timeline, all signs point to Webb being ready to play in the season opener. If Webb isn't ready, the Ravens' top three corners would be Corey Graham, Jimmy Smith and Chykie Brown. Webb dealt with a torn ACL in 2009, when he hurt his knee in late December. He was able to return and play 15 games the following season. So, he's been able to recover from this injury quickly in the past.
Cincinnati Bengals: Wide receiver Mohamed Sanu. He's the favorite to be the Bengals' No. 2 receiver and start opposite A.J. Green. A third-round pick last year, Sanu had worked himself into the starting lineup before breaking his left foot late in the season and undergoing surgery on Dec. 3. He expects to be running at full speed by next week's minicamp. Coach Marvin Lewis has high hopes for Sanu, saying he's ahead of where Chad Johnson was going into his second NFL season. Sanu was starting to hit his stride before the injury. In his last three games, he caught 11 passes and four touchdowns. Sanu will still have to earn the job. His main competition is Marvin Jones, a fifth-round pick from a year ago.
Cleveland Browns: Running back Trent Richardson. He said last month that he was fully recovered from all of last year's injures, and he wasn't wearing a protective sleeve over his knee anymore. But, in March, Richardson told The Plain Dealer that he might always have to deal with lingering pain from broken ribs after undergoing some tests. Richardson did say at that time that he expected to be 100 percent by training camp. Other than Richardson, the Browns aren't dealing with any critical injuries. Left guard Jason Pinkston returned to practice this week after having a blood clot in his lung that ended his 2012 season. Wide receiver David Nelson is still recovering from a torn ACL and he hopes to get on the field for June's mandatory minicamp. At this point, he's projected to be the No. 4 receiver.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Tight end Heath Miller. He's the biggest question mark in the division. After excelling in the first season of Todd Haley's offense, he tore ligaments in his right knee in the second-to-last game of the season and had surgery on Jan. 2. He's no longer on crutches and was spotted walking without a limp last month. The Steelers have been vague on Miller's timetable. Some believe that Miller will be ready for the start of the season after the Steelers passed on Tyler Eifert in the first round and didn't take a tight end in the draft. But there's still a chance that Miller could miss the start of the season or be placed on PUP. Losing Miller would significantly impact Pittsburgh's passing game. Last season, Miller led the Steelers in catches (71) and tied for the most touchdown catches (eight). Without Miller, the top two tight ends on the roster are Matt Spaeth and David Paulson. Spaeth has averaged eight catches per season, and Paulson had seven catches last season as a rookie.
A look at key players for each AFC North team who are coming back from injuries:
Baltimore Ravens: Cornerback Lardarius Webb. The Ravens need their top cornerback to return to his old form, especially with Cary Williams going to the Eagles in free agency. Webb tore his ACL in October and missed the final 10 games of the regular season. Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Webb "should be ready to roll" by training camp. Baltimore could bring him along slowly and limit his playing time in the preseason. But, based on this timeline, all signs point to Webb being ready to play in the season opener. If Webb isn't ready, the Ravens' top three corners would be Corey Graham, Jimmy Smith and Chykie Brown. Webb dealt with a torn ACL in 2009, when he hurt his knee in late December. He was able to return and play 15 games the following season. So, he's been able to recover from this injury quickly in the past.
Cincinnati Bengals: Wide receiver Mohamed Sanu. He's the favorite to be the Bengals' No. 2 receiver and start opposite A.J. Green. A third-round pick last year, Sanu had worked himself into the starting lineup before breaking his left foot late in the season and undergoing surgery on Dec. 3. He expects to be running at full speed by next week's minicamp. Coach Marvin Lewis has high hopes for Sanu, saying he's ahead of where Chad Johnson was going into his second NFL season. Sanu was starting to hit his stride before the injury. In his last three games, he caught 11 passes and four touchdowns. Sanu will still have to earn the job. His main competition is Marvin Jones, a fifth-round pick from a year ago.
Cleveland Browns: Running back Trent Richardson. He said last month that he was fully recovered from all of last year's injures, and he wasn't wearing a protective sleeve over his knee anymore. But, in March, Richardson told The Plain Dealer that he might always have to deal with lingering pain from broken ribs after undergoing some tests. Richardson did say at that time that he expected to be 100 percent by training camp. Other than Richardson, the Browns aren't dealing with any critical injuries. Left guard Jason Pinkston returned to practice this week after having a blood clot in his lung that ended his 2012 season. Wide receiver David Nelson is still recovering from a torn ACL and he hopes to get on the field for June's mandatory minicamp. At this point, he's projected to be the No. 4 receiver.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Tight end Heath Miller. He's the biggest question mark in the division. After excelling in the first season of Todd Haley's offense, he tore ligaments in his right knee in the second-to-last game of the season and had surgery on Jan. 2. He's no longer on crutches and was spotted walking without a limp last month. The Steelers have been vague on Miller's timetable. Some believe that Miller will be ready for the start of the season after the Steelers passed on Tyler Eifert in the first round and didn't take a tight end in the draft. But there's still a chance that Miller could miss the start of the season or be placed on PUP. Losing Miller would significantly impact Pittsburgh's passing game. Last season, Miller led the Steelers in catches (71) and tied for the most touchdown catches (eight). Without Miller, the top two tight ends on the roster are Matt Spaeth and David Paulson. Spaeth has averaged eight catches per season, and Paulson had seven catches last season as a rookie.How does Hoyer figure into Browns' plans?
May, 17, 2013
May 17
10:00
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
By now, everyone knows the Cleveland Browns agreed on a two-year contract with quarterback Brian Hoyer. The question that remains is Hoyer's role.
HoyerMy take on Hoyer is he's a notch below backup quarterback Jason Campbell but probably better than most teams' No. 3. Unless Brandon Weeden struggles mightily in training camp and the preseason, the only spot Hoyer is competing for is the backup one.
Do I know this for certain? No. There's reason to think Hoyer will be given an opportunity to have a significant role, based on an old quote from Browns general manager Mike Lombardi when he was an NFL Network analyst. It was dug up by The Plain Dealer.
"I think Brian Hoyer and Ryan Mallett are starters," Lombardi said in December 2011. "I've said this many times: If I would have taken the GM job of the 49ers, I would have gone after Brian Hoyer, because I think he has all the traits and characteristics. If I were the Cleveland Browns, I'd rather have Brian Hoyer behind center than Colt McCoy. I think he's got all the traits you need, in terms of leadership, toughness, the arm strength, the ability to move the team."
Before there is a buzz about Hoyer battling for the starting job, you should consider two points: Head coach Rob Chudzinski will decide the starting quarterback for the Browns and this quote is 17 months old. Since Lombardi said this, Hoyer has made one career start and bounced from New England to Pittsburgh to Arizona.
His career numbers are one start, a 59.4 completion rate, 616 yards, 2 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. Not exactly starting-quarterback statistics there. Also, if the Browns wanted Hoyer to be the starter, they would've traded a late-round pick for him during the draft (which was the speculation) instead of hoping he would get released.
Right now, the Browns are proceeding with Weeden, who took snaps with the first team for the second minicamp in a row.
"This means a lot to me," Weeden told reporters Thursday. "This is my job. I take it seriously and I want to be the guy."
If Weeden fails to be "the guy," I believe the next quarterback up is Campbell and not Hoyer.
Do I know this for certain? No. There's reason to think Hoyer will be given an opportunity to have a significant role, based on an old quote from Browns general manager Mike Lombardi when he was an NFL Network analyst. It was dug up by The Plain Dealer.
"I think Brian Hoyer and Ryan Mallett are starters," Lombardi said in December 2011. "I've said this many times: If I would have taken the GM job of the 49ers, I would have gone after Brian Hoyer, because I think he has all the traits and characteristics. If I were the Cleveland Browns, I'd rather have Brian Hoyer behind center than Colt McCoy. I think he's got all the traits you need, in terms of leadership, toughness, the arm strength, the ability to move the team."
Before there is a buzz about Hoyer battling for the starting job, you should consider two points: Head coach Rob Chudzinski will decide the starting quarterback for the Browns and this quote is 17 months old. Since Lombardi said this, Hoyer has made one career start and bounced from New England to Pittsburgh to Arizona.
His career numbers are one start, a 59.4 completion rate, 616 yards, 2 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. Not exactly starting-quarterback statistics there. Also, if the Browns wanted Hoyer to be the starter, they would've traded a late-round pick for him during the draft (which was the speculation) instead of hoping he would get released.
Right now, the Browns are proceeding with Weeden, who took snaps with the first team for the second minicamp in a row.
"This means a lot to me," Weeden told reporters Thursday. "This is my job. I take it seriously and I want to be the guy."
If Weeden fails to be "the guy," I believe the next quarterback up is Campbell and not Hoyer.
While the other teams in the AFC North are preparing for minicamps next week, the Cleveland Browns have been busy on and off the field during their workouts this week. The Browns signed two players (see below) and welcomed guard Jason Pinkston back to the practice field after a blood clot cut short last season for him. Let's see how the other division teams are faring in today's wake-up call ...
RAVENS: Everything is going well with left tackle Bryant McKinnie, according to The Baltimore Sun's Mike Preston. He's hearing word that McKinnie has been attending the team's offseason conditioning workout sessions and his weight is down. Preston thinks there are other concerns with the offensive line. "The Ravens need to work on timing issues, especially in the middle of the offensive line with new center Gino Gradkowski and guards Marshal Yanda and Kelechi Osemele," Preston wrote. "If Gradkowski performs well, the Ravens' offensive line could be one of the strong in the conference -- providing McKinnie keeps working hard."
BENGALS: Rookie linebacker Brandon Joiner, who recently served eight months of a three-year sentence for aggravated robbery, has an unlikely supporter -- Arkansas governor Mike Beebe. Joiner and Beebe both attended Arkansas State. "He's a good guy. This is the kind of story you like to talk about," Beebe told the team's official website. "Kids mess up. They do foolish things. We probably have all done stupid things when we're young. He went over the line. He did what he had to do. He paid his dues. He's a class guy."
Meanwhile, a warrant has been issued for the arrest of former Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson in South Florida. A circuit judge issued a warrant May 7 against Johnson for failing to report to his probation officer. Johnson received a year of probation last September after pleading no contest to a domestic violence charge involving his former wife, reality TV star Evelyn Lozada.
STEELERS: The Steelers signed their first draft pick from this year's class, reaching a deal with safety Shamarko Thomas. He was the first of two fourth-round picks for Pittsburgh. The Steelers traded next year's third-round pick to the Browns so they could draft Thomas. At Syracuse, Thomas started 39 games, recording 263 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss and four sacks. The Steelers, who have less than $2 million in salary-cap room, won't be able to sign all nine of their draft picks this month. Pittsburgh gains an additional $5.5 million next month because it designated guard Willie Colon a June 1 cut.
BROWNS: The Browns signed quarterback Brian Hoyer and running back Brandon Jackson, according to The Plain Dealer. Both are likely competing for backup jobs. Hoyer signed a two-year deal with his hometown team after stops in New England, Pittsburgh and Arizona. Hoyer, 27, was released by the Cardinals five days ago. Jackson, who is primarily a third-down back, signed a one-year deal to return to Cleveland. Both deals have yet to be announced by the Browns. I will provide my thoughts on the addition of Hoyer later this morning.
RAVENS: Everything is going well with left tackle Bryant McKinnie, according to The Baltimore Sun's Mike Preston. He's hearing word that McKinnie has been attending the team's offseason conditioning workout sessions and his weight is down. Preston thinks there are other concerns with the offensive line. "The Ravens need to work on timing issues, especially in the middle of the offensive line with new center Gino Gradkowski and guards Marshal Yanda and Kelechi Osemele," Preston wrote. "If Gradkowski performs well, the Ravens' offensive line could be one of the strong in the conference -- providing McKinnie keeps working hard."
BENGALS: Rookie linebacker Brandon Joiner, who recently served eight months of a three-year sentence for aggravated robbery, has an unlikely supporter -- Arkansas governor Mike Beebe. Joiner and Beebe both attended Arkansas State. "He's a good guy. This is the kind of story you like to talk about," Beebe told the team's official website. "Kids mess up. They do foolish things. We probably have all done stupid things when we're young. He went over the line. He did what he had to do. He paid his dues. He's a class guy."
Meanwhile, a warrant has been issued for the arrest of former Bengals wide receiver Chad Johnson in South Florida. A circuit judge issued a warrant May 7 against Johnson for failing to report to his probation officer. Johnson received a year of probation last September after pleading no contest to a domestic violence charge involving his former wife, reality TV star Evelyn Lozada.
STEELERS: The Steelers signed their first draft pick from this year's class, reaching a deal with safety Shamarko Thomas. He was the first of two fourth-round picks for Pittsburgh. The Steelers traded next year's third-round pick to the Browns so they could draft Thomas. At Syracuse, Thomas started 39 games, recording 263 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss and four sacks. The Steelers, who have less than $2 million in salary-cap room, won't be able to sign all nine of their draft picks this month. Pittsburgh gains an additional $5.5 million next month because it designated guard Willie Colon a June 1 cut.
BROWNS: The Browns signed quarterback Brian Hoyer and running back Brandon Jackson, according to The Plain Dealer. Both are likely competing for backup jobs. Hoyer signed a two-year deal with his hometown team after stops in New England, Pittsburgh and Arizona. Hoyer, 27, was released by the Cardinals five days ago. Jackson, who is primarily a third-down back, signed a one-year deal to return to Cleveland. Both deals have yet to be announced by the Browns. I will provide my thoughts on the addition of Hoyer later this morning.
Chat Rewind: Antonio Brown a No. 1 WR?
May, 16, 2013
May 16
5:30
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Here are some highlights from our weekly AFC North chat ...
Jesse [via mobile]: Is Antonio Brown a No. 1 receiver?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): There are different levels of No. 1 receivers in the league. Calvin Johnson and A.J. Green are 1A. Vincent Jackson would be 1B. And I would put Antonio Brown more in the 1C category. He'll have his chances to prove he's worthy of being labeled a No. 1 receiver with Mike Wallace gone.
Scott (Northglenn, CO): I agree with what you said about Antonio Brown. Now that being said, a pretty sneaky candidate for 100 catches this year, right?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): I could only see that number if Heath Miller is out an extended period.
Pat (Cincy Jungle): Honestly, if Andy Dalton can finally put it all together with the new weapons he has at his disposal, how scary good?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Dalton isn't going to carry a team for an extended period. He just doesn't have the skill set. Dalton can still be a very good QB in this league. He just needs weapons around him. The Bengals have done a great job at surrounding him with playmakers.
Nick (Cherry Hill, NJ): Do you see the Ravens making another signing for a veteran free agent WR this offseason like a Brandon Lloyd? Or do they have that much faith in Tandon Doss and/or Tommy Streeter to step up?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): It seems like the Ravens want to see what these young players like Doss and Streeter can do this summer before bringing in a free agent. The Ravens would hate to commit money to someone like Lloyd when a young guy can fill the role.
Cory (Elkton, Md.): Jamison, Are the Steelers still interested in Ahmad Bradshaw or are they sticking with their current roster of backs?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Drafting Le'Veon Bell in the second round ended the Steelers' interest. If a back gets hurt, they could re-visit Bradshaw. But I don't see him in a Steelers uniform this season.
Jack ( Newark): To say Dalton doesn't have the skill set to carry a team is fair. Would you say he has the ability to have a similar impact as Matt Ryan? How much better would you say Ryan currently is than Dalton?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): In terms of skill level and ability, Matt Ryan is in a different class than Dalton.
B-More Birds (Brawltimore): Since Rolando McClain "retired" do the Ravens go after a linebacker in the free agency now; maybe someone a little older like Bran Urlacher or even a Bart Scott type?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): As long as the prognosis for Jameel McClain remains good, the Ravens will go with Jameel McClain, Arthur Brown, Albert McClellan and Josh Bynes on the inside.
Dan (Cincinnati): Who has more catches this upcoming year: Jermaine Gresham or Tyler Eifert?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Gresham will have more catches. It wouldn't surprise me if Eifert ended up with more touchdowns and big plays, though.
Darrell (Dallas TX): By the Browns pretty enough ignoring the offensive side of the ball during the draft, does this indicate that they feel they are stronger or had more potential on the Offense?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): I get the sense that the Browns didn't see anyone who could really upgrade them on offense. I liked the trade for WR Devone Bess. But the offensive line is very good. Trent Richardson should have a breakout season. Wide receivers Josh Gordon and Greg Little are developing. And they decided to see if Brandon Weeden can prove he's a franchise QB.
Rick (Boise): Odds of Michael Johnson signing long term with Bengals this summer?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Bengals certainly have the cap room to get it done. But Bengals don't have a great track record in keeping players with franchise tag. Mike Nugent was an exception.
Andrew (Cleveland): Will the Browns pick up any more help in the secondary? Or do they feel ok with youth their assuming their pass rush will be improved?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): There's an outside chance that the Browns could bring in Kerry Rhodes (he has a history with Ray Horton) if Tashaun Gipson and Eric Hagg struggle.
Jesse [via mobile]: Is Antonio Brown a No. 1 receiver?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): There are different levels of No. 1 receivers in the league. Calvin Johnson and A.J. Green are 1A. Vincent Jackson would be 1B. And I would put Antonio Brown more in the 1C category. He'll have his chances to prove he's worthy of being labeled a No. 1 receiver with Mike Wallace gone.
Scott (Northglenn, CO): I agree with what you said about Antonio Brown. Now that being said, a pretty sneaky candidate for 100 catches this year, right?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): I could only see that number if Heath Miller is out an extended period.
Pat (Cincy Jungle): Honestly, if Andy Dalton can finally put it all together with the new weapons he has at his disposal, how scary good?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Dalton isn't going to carry a team for an extended period. He just doesn't have the skill set. Dalton can still be a very good QB in this league. He just needs weapons around him. The Bengals have done a great job at surrounding him with playmakers.
Nick (Cherry Hill, NJ): Do you see the Ravens making another signing for a veteran free agent WR this offseason like a Brandon Lloyd? Or do they have that much faith in Tandon Doss and/or Tommy Streeter to step up?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): It seems like the Ravens want to see what these young players like Doss and Streeter can do this summer before bringing in a free agent. The Ravens would hate to commit money to someone like Lloyd when a young guy can fill the role.
Cory (Elkton, Md.): Jamison, Are the Steelers still interested in Ahmad Bradshaw or are they sticking with their current roster of backs?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Drafting Le'Veon Bell in the second round ended the Steelers' interest. If a back gets hurt, they could re-visit Bradshaw. But I don't see him in a Steelers uniform this season.
Jack ( Newark): To say Dalton doesn't have the skill set to carry a team is fair. Would you say he has the ability to have a similar impact as Matt Ryan? How much better would you say Ryan currently is than Dalton?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): In terms of skill level and ability, Matt Ryan is in a different class than Dalton.
B-More Birds (Brawltimore): Since Rolando McClain "retired" do the Ravens go after a linebacker in the free agency now; maybe someone a little older like Bran Urlacher or even a Bart Scott type?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): As long as the prognosis for Jameel McClain remains good, the Ravens will go with Jameel McClain, Arthur Brown, Albert McClellan and Josh Bynes on the inside.
Dan (Cincinnati): Who has more catches this upcoming year: Jermaine Gresham or Tyler Eifert?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Gresham will have more catches. It wouldn't surprise me if Eifert ended up with more touchdowns and big plays, though.
Darrell (Dallas TX): By the Browns pretty enough ignoring the offensive side of the ball during the draft, does this indicate that they feel they are stronger or had more potential on the Offense?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): I get the sense that the Browns didn't see anyone who could really upgrade them on offense. I liked the trade for WR Devone Bess. But the offensive line is very good. Trent Richardson should have a breakout season. Wide receivers Josh Gordon and Greg Little are developing. And they decided to see if Brandon Weeden can prove he's a franchise QB.
Rick (Boise): Odds of Michael Johnson signing long term with Bengals this summer?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): Bengals certainly have the cap room to get it done. But Bengals don't have a great track record in keeping players with franchise tag. Mike Nugent was an exception.
Andrew (Cleveland): Will the Browns pick up any more help in the secondary? Or do they feel ok with youth their assuming their pass rush will be improved?
Jamison Hensley (ESPN): There's an outside chance that the Browns could bring in Kerry Rhodes (he has a history with Ray Horton) if Tashaun Gipson and Eric Hagg struggle.
AFC North preseason schedule finalized
May, 16, 2013
May 16
3:10
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
I know everyone was holding up their plans for the summer until the dates and kickoff times for the preseason games were finalized. All times are ET. So here you go:
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Thursday, Aug. 8: at Atlanta, 8 p.m. (ESPN)
Saturday, Aug. 17: vs. Tennessee, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 24: at Dallas, 8 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 29: vs. Indianapolis, 7 p.m.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Thursday, Aug. 8: vs. St. Louis, 8 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 15: vs. Detroit, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 24: at Indianapolis, 7 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 29: at Chicago, 8 p.m.
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Thursday, Aug. 8: at Tampa Bay, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 15: vs. Atlanta, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 22: vs. Carolina, 8 p.m. (ESPN)
Thursday, Aug. 29: at St. Louis, 8 p.m.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Saturday, Aug. 10: vs. N.Y. Giants, 7:30 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 19: at Washington, 8 p.m. (ESPN)
Saturday, Aug. 24: vs. Kansas City, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 29: at Carolina, 7:30 p.m.
CINCINNATI BENGALS
Thursday, Aug. 8: at Atlanta, 8 p.m. (ESPN)
Saturday, Aug. 17: vs. Tennessee, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 24: at Dallas, 8 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 29: vs. Indianapolis, 7 p.m.
CLEVELAND BROWNS
Thursday, Aug. 8: vs. St. Louis, 8 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 15: vs. Detroit, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 24: at Indianapolis, 7 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 29: at Chicago, 8 p.m.
BALTIMORE RAVENS
Thursday, Aug. 8: at Tampa Bay, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 15: vs. Atlanta, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 22: vs. Carolina, 8 p.m. (ESPN)
Thursday, Aug. 29: at St. Louis, 8 p.m.
PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Saturday, Aug. 10: vs. N.Y. Giants, 7:30 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 19: at Washington, 8 p.m. (ESPN)
Saturday, Aug. 24: vs. Kansas City, 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 29: at Carolina, 7:30 p.m.
Browns' Pinkston returns, not with starters
May, 16, 2013
May 16
1:57
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Some good news from Browns minicamp Thursday: guard Jason Pinkston is back on the field.
This marks the first participation for Pinkston since he was diagnosed with a blood clot in his lung on Oct. 19. He was cleared medically last month, but he sat out the team's first minicamp four weeks ago.
Pinkston, though, wasn't working with the starters. According to The Plain Dealer, last year’s starting right guard, Shawn Lauvao, is lining up at Pinkston’s old left guard spot and John Greco, who replaced Pinkston at left guard last season, is at right guard.
I wouldn't read too much into the lineup on May 16. It looks like the Browns want to ease Pinkston back into the lineup. If he returns to the level he was playing at last year, he should be the starter again this year. Pinkston has started every game, all 22 of them, since he was drafted in the fifth round in 2011.
If the Browns are going to make a change on the offensive line, I would replace Lauvao, who committed eight penalties and allowed three sacks last year, with Greco.
The Browns decided not to upgrade the guard position this offseason. They declined to pursue a free agent like Louis Vasquez and didn't draft an offensive lineman until the seventh round.
Still, the Browns have the best offensive line in the division, with tackles Joe Thomas and Mitchell Schwartz along with center Alex Mack.
This marks the first participation for Pinkston since he was diagnosed with a blood clot in his lung on Oct. 19. He was cleared medically last month, but he sat out the team's first minicamp four weeks ago.
Pinkston, though, wasn't working with the starters. According to The Plain Dealer, last year’s starting right guard, Shawn Lauvao, is lining up at Pinkston’s old left guard spot and John Greco, who replaced Pinkston at left guard last season, is at right guard.
I wouldn't read too much into the lineup on May 16. It looks like the Browns want to ease Pinkston back into the lineup. If he returns to the level he was playing at last year, he should be the starter again this year. Pinkston has started every game, all 22 of them, since he was drafted in the fifth round in 2011.
If the Browns are going to make a change on the offensive line, I would replace Lauvao, who committed eight penalties and allowed three sacks last year, with Greco.
The Browns decided not to upgrade the guard position this offseason. They declined to pursue a free agent like Louis Vasquez and didn't draft an offensive lineman until the seventh round.
Still, the Browns have the best offensive line in the division, with tackles Joe Thomas and Mitchell Schwartz along with center Alex Mack.
AFC North position rank: Special teams
May, 16, 2013
May 16
12:45
PM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
The AFC North is finishing up the position ranks today, and I will have a wrap-up on all of the rankings Friday. Let's look at special teams, and the rankings are based on specialists and not coverage or return units as a whole.
1. Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens get the top spot based on the assumption that Jacoby Jones will remain the primary returner. He proved to be the most explosive returner in the NFL last season with four touchdowns (including playoffs). Justin Tucker exceeded expectations as a rookie last season with his accuracy (led the division at 90.9 percent) and distance on field goals. Punter Sam Koch has been solid for years and recorded a career-high 40.8-yard net average last season.
2. Cincinnati Bengals: Kevin Huber was the best punter in the AFC North last year. He led the division in net average (42.0) and punts inside the 20-yard line (33). Mike Nugent slipped to 82.6 percent conversion rate, but he was perfect inside 40 yards. The biggest concern with Nugent is durability. He has finished two of the past three seasons on injured reserve. The Bengals have some options at returner with Brandon Tate, Adam Jones and Onterio McCalebb, the fastest player at this year's NFL scouting combine.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers: Journeyman kicker Shaun Suisham has solidified himself in Pittsburgh. He has converted over 90 percent of his field goals in two of his three seasons with the Steelers. There's more uncertainty at punter and returner. Rookie punter Drew Butler was 25th in the NFL in net average (37.8), which is why he'll have competition this year from Brian Moorman, a two-time Pro Bowl punter. After spending 12 seasons with the Bills, Moorman had a below-average season last year with the Cowboys. At returner, the Steelers have to decide between LaRod Stephens-Howling, rookie sixth-round pick Justin Brown and undrafted rookie Reggie Dunn.
4. Cleveland Browns: The Browns didn't re-sign two Pro Bowl specialists from last year, kicker Phil Dawson and Josh Cribbs. The Browns downgraded at kicker, going from the one constant in their expansion era (Phil Dawson) to a player who is on his ninth team in five seasons (Shayne Graham). Graham ranked 23rd in the league last season with a 81.6 percent success rate on field goals. Cleveland also parted ways with ineffective punter, Reggie Hodges. Spencer Lanning and T.J. Conley, both of whom were out of the league last year, will compete for the punter job. Travis Benjamin is expected to replace Cribbs on punt returns, and Dion Lewis may take over on kickoffs.
1. Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens get the top spot based on the assumption that Jacoby Jones will remain the primary returner. He proved to be the most explosive returner in the NFL last season with four touchdowns (including playoffs). Justin Tucker exceeded expectations as a rookie last season with his accuracy (led the division at 90.9 percent) and distance on field goals. Punter Sam Koch has been solid for years and recorded a career-high 40.8-yard net average last season.
2. Cincinnati Bengals: Kevin Huber was the best punter in the AFC North last year. He led the division in net average (42.0) and punts inside the 20-yard line (33). Mike Nugent slipped to 82.6 percent conversion rate, but he was perfect inside 40 yards. The biggest concern with Nugent is durability. He has finished two of the past three seasons on injured reserve. The Bengals have some options at returner with Brandon Tate, Adam Jones and Onterio McCalebb, the fastest player at this year's NFL scouting combine.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers: Journeyman kicker Shaun Suisham has solidified himself in Pittsburgh. He has converted over 90 percent of his field goals in two of his three seasons with the Steelers. There's more uncertainty at punter and returner. Rookie punter Drew Butler was 25th in the NFL in net average (37.8), which is why he'll have competition this year from Brian Moorman, a two-time Pro Bowl punter. After spending 12 seasons with the Bills, Moorman had a below-average season last year with the Cowboys. At returner, the Steelers have to decide between LaRod Stephens-Howling, rookie sixth-round pick Justin Brown and undrafted rookie Reggie Dunn.
4. Cleveland Browns: The Browns didn't re-sign two Pro Bowl specialists from last year, kicker Phil Dawson and Josh Cribbs. The Browns downgraded at kicker, going from the one constant in their expansion era (Phil Dawson) to a player who is on his ninth team in five seasons (Shayne Graham). Graham ranked 23rd in the league last season with a 81.6 percent success rate on field goals. Cleveland also parted ways with ineffective punter, Reggie Hodges. Spencer Lanning and T.J. Conley, both of whom were out of the league last year, will compete for the punter job. Travis Benjamin is expected to replace Cribbs on punt returns, and Dion Lewis may take over on kickoffs.
Browns believe first-half leads are critical
May, 16, 2013
May 16
11:00
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Cleveland Browns general manager Mike Lombardi recently spoke about the team's focus on building first-half leads.
"If you can't effectively throw the ball, if you can't get the lead ... early in the game, if you can't rush the passer, then you're going to have a hard time winning," Lombardi told The Plain Dealer. "One of the most critical statistics in football today is first-half point differential. The top five teams that lead at halftime ... typically are always going to be playoff-caliber type of teams."
This goes back to the old Indianapolis Colts strategy of jumping out to a big lead on the arm of Peyton Manning and then unleashing pass-rushers Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis on the quarterback. The Browns have certainly done their part on the defensive side of the ball. They stocked up on pass-rushers this offseason, signing Paul Kruger and Quentin Groves in free agency and drafting Barkevious Mingo with the No. 6 overall pick. The challenge for coach Rob Chudzinski and offensive coordinator Norv Turner is jump-starting Cleveland's offense.
Cleveland didn't score a touchdown in the first quarter until the fourth game of the season and finished with 50 points in the first quarter for the season, which was the fifth-fewest in the NFL last season. According to ESPN Stats & Information, only the Philadelphia Eagles (31), Oakland Raiders (35), Dallas Cowboys (36) and Kansas City Chiefs (42) had fewer first-quarter points than the Browns.
Those struggles can be traced back to quarterback Brandon Weeden. As a rookie, he threw for 730 yards in the first quarter (an average of 45.6) with two touchdowns and three interceptions. His 39.3 Total QBR in the first quarter ranked 28th in the NFL.
As a result, Cleveland managed five leads at halftime and was just 3-2 in those games. The Browns' biggest halftime lead was 13-0 at Dallas, and they ended up losing that game in overtime. Overall, the Browns were outscored in the first half, 180-139.
In other words, Lombardi wants to turn a major trouble spot for the Browns last year into a strength this year.
"If you can't effectively throw the ball, if you can't get the lead ... early in the game, if you can't rush the passer, then you're going to have a hard time winning," Lombardi told The Plain Dealer. "One of the most critical statistics in football today is first-half point differential. The top five teams that lead at halftime ... typically are always going to be playoff-caliber type of teams."
This goes back to the old Indianapolis Colts strategy of jumping out to a big lead on the arm of Peyton Manning and then unleashing pass-rushers Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis on the quarterback. The Browns have certainly done their part on the defensive side of the ball. They stocked up on pass-rushers this offseason, signing Paul Kruger and Quentin Groves in free agency and drafting Barkevious Mingo with the No. 6 overall pick. The challenge for coach Rob Chudzinski and offensive coordinator Norv Turner is jump-starting Cleveland's offense.
Cleveland didn't score a touchdown in the first quarter until the fourth game of the season and finished with 50 points in the first quarter for the season, which was the fifth-fewest in the NFL last season. According to ESPN Stats & Information, only the Philadelphia Eagles (31), Oakland Raiders (35), Dallas Cowboys (36) and Kansas City Chiefs (42) had fewer first-quarter points than the Browns.
Those struggles can be traced back to quarterback Brandon Weeden. As a rookie, he threw for 730 yards in the first quarter (an average of 45.6) with two touchdowns and three interceptions. His 39.3 Total QBR in the first quarter ranked 28th in the NFL.
As a result, Cleveland managed five leads at halftime and was just 3-2 in those games. The Browns' biggest halftime lead was 13-0 at Dallas, and they ended up losing that game in overtime. Overall, the Browns were outscored in the first half, 180-139.
In other words, Lombardi wants to turn a major trouble spot for the Browns last year into a strength this year.
Haslam denies knowledge of rebate fraud
May, 16, 2013
May 16
10:30
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
Browns owner Jimmy Haslam denied he had any knowledge of rebate fraud by his family-run truck-stop business.
"Absolutely not. I will say absolutely not," Haslam said Thursday morning at a trucking company seminar, via The Plain Dealer. "I was not aware of any of this."
This contradicts other accounts. In unsealed search warrant affidavit, there are accusations that Haslam and Pilot Flying J president Mark Hazelwood knew about shortchanging customers because they attended sales meetings where it was discussed.
Federal prosecutors have filed no charges so far and won’t say when -- or if -- any charges might be coming. Haslam went on to apologize for "the actions of our people."
"It's a blip. It may be a substantial blip," Haslam said. "But in no way, shape or form does it affect my ownership of the Browns."
If Haslam is indicted, it could affect his ownership. The NFL is an image-conscious business, and it's hard to believe the other 31 owners would want to be linked to someone who was guilty of knowingly ripping off customers.
"Absolutely not. I will say absolutely not," Haslam said Thursday morning at a trucking company seminar, via The Plain Dealer. "I was not aware of any of this."
This contradicts other accounts. In unsealed search warrant affidavit, there are accusations that Haslam and Pilot Flying J president Mark Hazelwood knew about shortchanging customers because they attended sales meetings where it was discussed.
Federal prosecutors have filed no charges so far and won’t say when -- or if -- any charges might be coming. Haslam went on to apologize for "the actions of our people."
"It's a blip. It may be a substantial blip," Haslam said. "But in no way, shape or form does it affect my ownership of the Browns."
If Haslam is indicted, it could affect his ownership. The NFL is an image-conscious business, and it's hard to believe the other 31 owners would want to be linked to someone who was guilty of knowingly ripping off customers.
Wake-up: Wallace uses Big Ben comparison
May, 16, 2013
May 16
8:00
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
The theme of Thursday's wake-up call is former players. Even though they're gone, they still generate interest. Other than the item on the Cincinnati Bengals, it's time to revisit some names no longer on an AFC North roster:
RAVENS: The Baltimore Sun's Mike Preston doesn't think the Ravens should have signed linebacker Rolando McClain, who announced his retirement Wednesday. "The Ravens blew it on this one," Preston wrote. "They went out and signed a knucklehead who remained a knucklehead. At this point, we don't know why McClain retired at age 23, and to be honest, I'm afraid to ask. I really don't want to know, and I'm just glad he is out of here." Also, 2005 first-round pick Mark Clayton announced his retirement two months after saying he was ready to play again. A right knee injury had sidelined him all of last season. Clayton is 30 years old, seven years older than McClain.
BENGALS: The timetable hasn't changed for cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick, who isn't expected to participate in team drills until the start of training camp in late July, according to the team's official website. He is recovering from offseason knee surgery. Kirkpatrick has been able to do some individual drills while he rehabs. "It's the best he's moved since he's been here," secondary coach Mark Carrier said. "It's amazing what you can do when you don't have any pain. Remember, he's been hurt pretty much since he's been here, so he really looks good so far."
STEELERS: Former Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace told the Miami Herald that his new quarterback (the Dolphins' Ryan Tannehill) can be just as good as his old one (the Steelers' Ben Roethlisberger). "It's funny, they both played receiver at the beginning of college," Wallace said. "They both know what we [receivers] like to do out there, so the chemistry is there already. Both have strong arms. Ryan has a cannon, can really fling it." Wallace added that Tannehill "may be able to throw the ball a little farther than Ben." Maybe Wallace should wait to actually catch a pass from Tannehill in a meaningful game before making such comparisons. With Roethlisberger throwing him the ball, Wallace had more 40-yard receptions (27) than anyone in the NFL since 2009 and the most touchdown catches of 40 yards or longer (16).
BROWNS: Wide receiver-returner Josh Cribbs is officially an ex-Browns player after signing a one-year deal with the Oakland Raiders. Cribbs, who went to three Pro Bowls during his eight seasons with Cleveland, expressed no hard feelings with his former team. "I am going to be for them until we play them," Cribbs told ESPN's Josina Anderson. "They are great fans. I love them just as much as they love me. I hope they win this year. I hope they get the job done and reach greater heights. I hope they root for me as a player and I will be rooting for them from afar." This is a much better response than when Cribbs lashed out on Twitter toward the end of last season. The Browns will replace Cribbs with Travis Benjamin in the return game.
RAVENS: The Baltimore Sun's Mike Preston doesn't think the Ravens should have signed linebacker Rolando McClain, who announced his retirement Wednesday. "The Ravens blew it on this one," Preston wrote. "They went out and signed a knucklehead who remained a knucklehead. At this point, we don't know why McClain retired at age 23, and to be honest, I'm afraid to ask. I really don't want to know, and I'm just glad he is out of here." Also, 2005 first-round pick Mark Clayton announced his retirement two months after saying he was ready to play again. A right knee injury had sidelined him all of last season. Clayton is 30 years old, seven years older than McClain.
BENGALS: The timetable hasn't changed for cornerback Dre Kirkpatrick, who isn't expected to participate in team drills until the start of training camp in late July, according to the team's official website. He is recovering from offseason knee surgery. Kirkpatrick has been able to do some individual drills while he rehabs. "It's the best he's moved since he's been here," secondary coach Mark Carrier said. "It's amazing what you can do when you don't have any pain. Remember, he's been hurt pretty much since he's been here, so he really looks good so far."
STEELERS: Former Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace told the Miami Herald that his new quarterback (the Dolphins' Ryan Tannehill) can be just as good as his old one (the Steelers' Ben Roethlisberger). "It's funny, they both played receiver at the beginning of college," Wallace said. "They both know what we [receivers] like to do out there, so the chemistry is there already. Both have strong arms. Ryan has a cannon, can really fling it." Wallace added that Tannehill "may be able to throw the ball a little farther than Ben." Maybe Wallace should wait to actually catch a pass from Tannehill in a meaningful game before making such comparisons. With Roethlisberger throwing him the ball, Wallace had more 40-yard receptions (27) than anyone in the NFL since 2009 and the most touchdown catches of 40 yards or longer (16).
BROWNS: Wide receiver-returner Josh Cribbs is officially an ex-Browns player after signing a one-year deal with the Oakland Raiders. Cribbs, who went to three Pro Bowls during his eight seasons with Cleveland, expressed no hard feelings with his former team. "I am going to be for them until we play them," Cribbs told ESPN's Josina Anderson. "They are great fans. I love them just as much as they love me. I hope they win this year. I hope they get the job done and reach greater heights. I hope they root for me as a player and I will be rooting for them from afar." This is a much better response than when Cribbs lashed out on Twitter toward the end of last season. The Browns will replace Cribbs with Travis Benjamin in the return game.
The AFC North blog is wrapping up its rankings for the positions on defense. This is a projection on how the group will fare this season. It's not an evaluation based on last year. For Wednesday, let's look at the secondary.
1. Pittsburgh Steelers: This defensive backfield is old, but it's still got one good year left as a group. Pittsburgh has the best safety tandem in the division with Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark. The key, as always, is the health of Polamalu. He's a playmaker when he's in the lineup. Ike Taylor is streaky because he goes through stretches where he lacks confidence. He's still one of the top four corners in the AFC North. There's a level of uncertainty with Cortez Allen, who is replacing Keenan Lewis in the starting lineup, and nickel back William Gay.
2. Baltimore Ravens: If Lardarius Webb can return from a season-ending knee injury, this will be a significant boost to the secondary. He's the best cornerback on the team. There's a chance that Jimmy Smith will beat out Corey Graham for the other starting job. If that happens, Baltimore will have four different starters from the secondary that started the Super Bowl. At safety, Michael Huff and Matt Elam will replace Ed Reed and Bernard Pollard. What the Ravens lost in experience, they made up for in speed and athleticism.
3. Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals have a proven cornerback in Leon Hall, who finished last season strong, and a top free safety in Reggie Nelson. The other cornerback spot will go to either veteran Terence Newman or Dre Kirkpatrick, a first-round pick from a year ago. Adam Jones provides quality depth at corner. The question mark is at strong safety, which has been the weak spot on the defense for two years. Rookie third-round pick Shawn Williams will have a shot to start but he'll have to beat out Taylor Mays, Jeromy Miles and George Iloka.
4. Cleveland Browns: Joe Haden will be the top cornerback in the AFC North, and T.J. Ward could end up being the best strong safety in the division. So why are the Browns last? There's too many questions surrounding them. Rookie third-round pick Leon McFadden is the favorite to start opposite Haden, but he may split time with Chris Owens. Buster Skrine, who committed nine penalties last year, is expected to be the nickel back. The Browns have to decide whether Tashaun Gipson or Eric Hagg will start at free safety. Neither are great options.
1. Pittsburgh Steelers: This defensive backfield is old, but it's still got one good year left as a group. Pittsburgh has the best safety tandem in the division with Troy Polamalu and Ryan Clark. The key, as always, is the health of Polamalu. He's a playmaker when he's in the lineup. Ike Taylor is streaky because he goes through stretches where he lacks confidence. He's still one of the top four corners in the AFC North. There's a level of uncertainty with Cortez Allen, who is replacing Keenan Lewis in the starting lineup, and nickel back William Gay.
2. Baltimore Ravens: If Lardarius Webb can return from a season-ending knee injury, this will be a significant boost to the secondary. He's the best cornerback on the team. There's a chance that Jimmy Smith will beat out Corey Graham for the other starting job. If that happens, Baltimore will have four different starters from the secondary that started the Super Bowl. At safety, Michael Huff and Matt Elam will replace Ed Reed and Bernard Pollard. What the Ravens lost in experience, they made up for in speed and athleticism.
3. Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals have a proven cornerback in Leon Hall, who finished last season strong, and a top free safety in Reggie Nelson. The other cornerback spot will go to either veteran Terence Newman or Dre Kirkpatrick, a first-round pick from a year ago. Adam Jones provides quality depth at corner. The question mark is at strong safety, which has been the weak spot on the defense for two years. Rookie third-round pick Shawn Williams will have a shot to start but he'll have to beat out Taylor Mays, Jeromy Miles and George Iloka.
4. Cleveland Browns: Joe Haden will be the top cornerback in the AFC North, and T.J. Ward could end up being the best strong safety in the division. So why are the Browns last? There's too many questions surrounding them. Rookie third-round pick Leon McFadden is the favorite to start opposite Haden, but he may split time with Chris Owens. Buster Skrine, who committed nine penalties last year, is expected to be the nickel back. The Browns have to decide whether Tashaun Gipson or Eric Hagg will start at free safety. Neither are great options.
We're over two weeks removed from the NFL draft and have about another month before the mandatory minicamps begin. But I'm sure you still have questions about the offseason, and I'm not talking about Dancing With The Stars or James Harrison's expensive body work.
The AFC North weekly chat will be held today at 2 p.m., so drop by to discuss the latest happenings in the division. As always, you can send your questions about the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers at any time. Just click on these blue words right here to join the award-winning fun.
See you in a couple of hours.
The AFC North weekly chat will be held today at 2 p.m., so drop by to discuss the latest happenings in the division. As always, you can send your questions about the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers at any time. Just click on these blue words right here to join the award-winning fun.
See you in a couple of hours.
Wake-up: Weeden not looking over shoulder
May, 15, 2013
May 15
8:00
AM ET
By
Jamison Hensley | ESPN.com
The good news for Jacoby Jones is he advanced to the finals of "Dancing With The Stars" on Tuesday night. The bad news for the Baltimore Ravens is Jones advanced to the finals of "Dancing With the Stars." Jones' success on the ABC series means the team's potential No. 2 wide receiver will miss the start of offseason workouts next week. But, since next week is the show's final week, he still will be able to attend the team's mandatory minicamp, which is scheduled for June 11-13. Now let's slide our way to the wake-up call, where dancing shoes are never required ...
RAVENS: The Super Bowl champions will hold a private ring ceremony on June 7 when players, coaches and staff members will receive their championship bling. According to the team's official website, owner Steve Bisciotti looked for input into the ring's design, including from quarterback Joe Flacco and linebacker Ray Lewis. Images of the ring haven't been released but it surely will include more diamonds than what the local mall jewelry store has in stock.
BENGALS: When Cincinnati reached an agreement with James Harrison on April 19, I made the point that the linebacker will bring attitude to the Bengals' defense. Cornerback Adam Jones obviously agrees. "He gives you that swagger and that seal," Jones told the team's official website. "When you mail out the letter you have to make sure you put a stamp on it. Well, he's the stamp." I will have more on Harrison's revealing news conference later this morning.
STEELERS: In a conference call with season-ticket holders, general manager Kevin Colbert said linebacker Sean Spence is progressing from a devastating knee injury he suffered a year ago. "Sometimes it takes over a year to fully rehabilitate," Colbert said, via the team's official website. "But the good thing is we are seeing signs of progress, albeit small steps. But it is progress. Sean’s attitude is off the charts. He wants to rehab. He wants to be a great player. He is working hard to get there. He is making small progress, and as long as he is making progress, we will be patient with him and hopefully get him back at full speed at some point.” Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said he expected Spence to make a full recovery, which came a week after linebackers coach Keith Butler said it would be "miraculous" if Spence ever came back.
BROWNS: Quarterback Brandon Weeden doesn't seem fazed by the talk that he'll face tough competition from Jason Campbell for the starting job, according to the team's official website. "At this position – which, to me, is the hardest position in sports – you can’t be looking over your shoulder all the time," Weeden said. "You’ve got to worry about what’s most important, and that’s me getting better, building on what I did last year, and continue to grow as a player. And, if I can do that, and not really worry about what’s going on around me, and kind of have that tunnel vision, that’s going to make me a better player and that’s going to make this team better."
RAVENS: The Super Bowl champions will hold a private ring ceremony on June 7 when players, coaches and staff members will receive their championship bling. According to the team's official website, owner Steve Bisciotti looked for input into the ring's design, including from quarterback Joe Flacco and linebacker Ray Lewis. Images of the ring haven't been released but it surely will include more diamonds than what the local mall jewelry store has in stock.
BENGALS: When Cincinnati reached an agreement with James Harrison on April 19, I made the point that the linebacker will bring attitude to the Bengals' defense. Cornerback Adam Jones obviously agrees. "He gives you that swagger and that seal," Jones told the team's official website. "When you mail out the letter you have to make sure you put a stamp on it. Well, he's the stamp." I will have more on Harrison's revealing news conference later this morning.
STEELERS: In a conference call with season-ticket holders, general manager Kevin Colbert said linebacker Sean Spence is progressing from a devastating knee injury he suffered a year ago. "Sometimes it takes over a year to fully rehabilitate," Colbert said, via the team's official website. "But the good thing is we are seeing signs of progress, albeit small steps. But it is progress. Sean’s attitude is off the charts. He wants to rehab. He wants to be a great player. He is working hard to get there. He is making small progress, and as long as he is making progress, we will be patient with him and hopefully get him back at full speed at some point.” Steelers coach Mike Tomlin said he expected Spence to make a full recovery, which came a week after linebackers coach Keith Butler said it would be "miraculous" if Spence ever came back.
BROWNS: Quarterback Brandon Weeden doesn't seem fazed by the talk that he'll face tough competition from Jason Campbell for the starting job, according to the team's official website. "At this position – which, to me, is the hardest position in sports – you can’t be looking over your shoulder all the time," Weeden said. "You’ve got to worry about what’s most important, and that’s me getting better, building on what I did last year, and continue to grow as a player. And, if I can do that, and not really worry about what’s going on around me, and kind of have that tunnel vision, that’s going to make me a better player and that’s going to make this team better."
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Jamison Hensley
Hensley joined ESPN.com in 2011 after covering the Ravens for The Baltimore Sun for 11 years. A graduate of the University of Maryland, he lives in the Baltimore area with his wife and son.
