B
BR1986FB
Posts: 24,104
Jun 27, 2011 1:26pm
bases_loaded;815194 wrote:If you were told not to worry about parking tickets in your new car you probably didn't pay for...wouldn't you park wherever you wanted and whenever
Good point
Writerbuckeye
Posts: 4,745
Jun 27, 2011 5:49pm
bases_loaded;815194 wrote:If you were told not to worry about parking tickets in your new car you probably didn't pay for...wouldn't you park wherever you wanted and whenever
ESPN just ran a story about it blaming lax enforcement policies by Jim Tressel and Ohio State.
Commander of Awesome
Posts: 23,151
Jun 28, 2011 12:21pm
http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/story/15272054/top-50-free-agents-new-rules-may-fill-up-deep-pool/rss
Top 50 free agents: New rules could fill up deep pool
As the NFL and its players move toward a potential labor agreement it's looking more and more like unrestricted free agency will be granted after four years, rather than the six it was in 2010.
That would mean the most hectic, crazy, free-for-all in free agency we've ever had. We would have a player pool as deep as it has been in a long time. In years past when putting together a list of the top-50 free agents, I've always struggled at the end of the list to come up with players I felt truly worthy.
Charles Johnson is only 24 and coming off a season where he recorded 11 1/2 sacks for Carolina. (Getty Images)
This year, I had to cut good ones.
When the free-agency window opens, hold on for a wild ride. Good teams, with good general managers, will strike early and often. Those not prepared will get left in the dust.
It will be a buyer's market, considering the depth of the class, but there will be a lot of movement. There will be too many good players available for it not to be.
Oakland Raiders cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha tops my list, and might become the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL when he does sign. But he is only one of a good corner class, which means a premium position has talented players available.
There are eight corners on my top-50 list. That means a team wanting to avoid spending big on Asomugha will have other options to upgrade a key position.
That's what this free-agent class will be about: Options. The pool is so deep.
Dive in, folks. It's going to be fun:
1. Nnamdi Asomugha, CB, Oakland Raiders: He is the top player on any list regardless of years of service. He will get a top-dollar deal, one that might make him the highest-paid defensive player in the league.
2. Charles Johnson, DE, Carolina Panthers: At 24, he is coming off his best season and one of the best by a defensive end last season. He had 11 ½ sacks, and he was around the quarterback a lot. He's also good against the run.
3. Johnathan Joseph, CB, Cincinnati Bengals: He didn't have a great season in 2010, but he's still at top cover player who can play man coverage, which makes him valuable.
4. Ray Edwards, DE, Minnesota Vikings: His best sack season came in 2009 when he had 8½, followed by eight last season. But some team is going to pay him big money because he's got the potential for more, and he plays a value position. He's also pretty good holding up against the run, which means he can play either right or left end.
5. Sidney Rice, WR, Minnesota Vikings: He had a breakout season in 2009, but he missed the first part of 2010 with a hip injury. That might be a concern, although he did come back and play well.
6. Eric Weddle, S, San Diego Chargers: He is a rangy safety in a league that craves them. Weddle is a former corner, which speaks to his pass-coverage skills. He will be a wanted commodity.
7. Zach Miller, TE, Oakland Raiders: He led the Raiders with 60 catches last season despite missing time with a foot injury. He would put up even bigger numbers if the passing game around him was better.
8. Brandon Mebane, DT, Seattle Seahawks: At 26, he has been a good starter for the Seahawks the past four seasons. He is a perfect 4-3 defensive tackle. Seattle would love to have him back.
9. Carlos Rogers, CB, Washington Redskins: He's been a good, sound starter for the past four years. He doesn't get a lot of picks -- bad hands -- but he is around the football.
10. Tyson Clabo, T, Atlanta Falcons: He's a tough-guy right tackle who makes up for his lack of athletic ability with a fighter's mentality. He uses all the tricks of the trade.
Top 50 free agents: New rules could fill up deep pool
As the NFL and its players move toward a potential labor agreement it's looking more and more like unrestricted free agency will be granted after four years, rather than the six it was in 2010.
That would mean the most hectic, crazy, free-for-all in free agency we've ever had. We would have a player pool as deep as it has been in a long time. In years past when putting together a list of the top-50 free agents, I've always struggled at the end of the list to come up with players I felt truly worthy.
Charles Johnson is only 24 and coming off a season where he recorded 11 1/2 sacks for Carolina. (Getty Images)
This year, I had to cut good ones.
When the free-agency window opens, hold on for a wild ride. Good teams, with good general managers, will strike early and often. Those not prepared will get left in the dust.
It will be a buyer's market, considering the depth of the class, but there will be a lot of movement. There will be too many good players available for it not to be.
Oakland Raiders cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha tops my list, and might become the highest-paid defensive player in the NFL when he does sign. But he is only one of a good corner class, which means a premium position has talented players available.
There are eight corners on my top-50 list. That means a team wanting to avoid spending big on Asomugha will have other options to upgrade a key position.
That's what this free-agent class will be about: Options. The pool is so deep.
Dive in, folks. It's going to be fun:
1. Nnamdi Asomugha, CB, Oakland Raiders: He is the top player on any list regardless of years of service. He will get a top-dollar deal, one that might make him the highest-paid defensive player in the league.
2. Charles Johnson, DE, Carolina Panthers: At 24, he is coming off his best season and one of the best by a defensive end last season. He had 11 ½ sacks, and he was around the quarterback a lot. He's also good against the run.
3. Johnathan Joseph, CB, Cincinnati Bengals: He didn't have a great season in 2010, but he's still at top cover player who can play man coverage, which makes him valuable.
4. Ray Edwards, DE, Minnesota Vikings: His best sack season came in 2009 when he had 8½, followed by eight last season. But some team is going to pay him big money because he's got the potential for more, and he plays a value position. He's also pretty good holding up against the run, which means he can play either right or left end.
5. Sidney Rice, WR, Minnesota Vikings: He had a breakout season in 2009, but he missed the first part of 2010 with a hip injury. That might be a concern, although he did come back and play well.
6. Eric Weddle, S, San Diego Chargers: He is a rangy safety in a league that craves them. Weddle is a former corner, which speaks to his pass-coverage skills. He will be a wanted commodity.
7. Zach Miller, TE, Oakland Raiders: He led the Raiders with 60 catches last season despite missing time with a foot injury. He would put up even bigger numbers if the passing game around him was better.
8. Brandon Mebane, DT, Seattle Seahawks: At 26, he has been a good starter for the Seahawks the past four seasons. He is a perfect 4-3 defensive tackle. Seattle would love to have him back.
9. Carlos Rogers, CB, Washington Redskins: He's been a good, sound starter for the past four years. He doesn't get a lot of picks -- bad hands -- but he is around the football.
10. Tyson Clabo, T, Atlanta Falcons: He's a tough-guy right tackle who makes up for his lack of athletic ability with a fighter's mentality. He uses all the tricks of the trade.
Commander of Awesome
Posts: 23,151
Jun 28, 2011 12:23pm
Click the link for the other 40 FAs. Pretty interesting list, lot of names I wouldn't mind the Browns picking up, what are some of the guys you think the Browns should target?
royal_k
Posts: 4,423
Jun 28, 2011 12:40pm
Charles Johnson or Ray Edwards
Rice or Holmes ( I know he has fucked up, but very talented)
One of the offensive tackles
And a LB and safety
Rice or Holmes ( I know he has fucked up, but very talented)
One of the offensive tackles
And a LB and safety
lhslep134
Posts: 9,774
Jun 28, 2011 12:50pm
I was a big Eric Weddle fan coming out of Utah, I'd love to see him in Brown and Orange.
Commander of Awesome
Posts: 23,151
Jun 28, 2011 12:52pm
Def like Johnson and/or Edwards. I want Clabo, Huff would be amazing. I wouldnt mind Rice but I would be just as happy with Lance Moore or Steve Smith (not as much risk/money and productive).
Clabo, Edwards and Huff would be my first 3 targets. I think we need bodies at LBer if nothing else and its looking like a decent amount of serviceable options will be available.
Clabo, Edwards and Huff would be my first 3 targets. I think we need bodies at LBer if nothing else and its looking like a decent amount of serviceable options will be available.
B
BR1986FB
Posts: 24,104
Jun 28, 2011 8:05pm
Commander of Awesome
Posts: 23,151
Jun 28, 2011 9:41pm
good to hear, feel better when the coaches are involved though.
B
BR1986FB
Posts: 24,104
Jul 3, 2011 5:04pm
Draft neglect digs holes in Cleveland Browns' defense: Terry Pluto's Talkin'
Published: Sunday, July 03, 2011, 12:00 AM Updated: Sunday, July 03, 2011, 12:13 AM
Terry Pluto, The Plain Dealer
ABOUT THE BROWNS . . .
1. Every new Browns regime lives with the mistakes of the ones which came before. We all know that, but Eric Grinnell pointed out a different aspect of that in this email:
"I found that from 2002-2009 (eight drafts), the Browns spent only one first-round pick on defense (Kamerion Wimbley, 2006). An even more outrageous fact is that in those same drafts, the Browns picked zero total defensive linemen in rounds 2-4 . . . Although I've been conscious of the fact that the previous regimes didn't spend a lot of draft picks on defense, I never realized how appalling the numbers really are."
2. Grinnell started with the 2002 draft because the Browns selected DT Gerard Warren in 2001 with the No. 3 pick. The lesson from that draft is to never pick a defensive lineman (or anyone else) nicknamed "Big Money." Since the team came back in 1999, the only defensive first-round picks have been Courtney Brown (2000), Warren, Wimbley, Joe Haden (2010) and Phil Taylor (2011).
3. The only first-rounders still with the team since it returned in 1999 are Joe Thomas (2007), Alex Mack (2009), Haden and Taylor. That's not very many. It's also an indication of different people doing the drafting -- and how the new regime often is eager to deal the old regime's players.
4. First-rounders Braylon Edwards (2005), Kellen Winslow II (2004), Jeff Faine (2003) and Wimbley have been traded. Those deals produced Colt McCoy (for Wimbley), Mohamed Massaquoi (Winslow), Chansi Stuckey (Edwards), Jason Trusnik (Edwards), Shawn Lauvao (Edwards) and D'Qwell Jackson (Faine).
5. Grinnell's point is that the Browns have paid little attention to the defensive line in the draft -- which is why there are so many holes today. It's also why the Browns made defensive tackle Taylor and defensive end Jabaal Sheard their first two picks in 2011.
6. The Browns have had 13 second-rounders since 2002. Four have been wide receivers (Andre Davis, Massaquoi, Brian Robiskie and Greg Little). Three have been linebackers (Jackson, Chaun Thompson and David Veikune). Four have been defensive backs (Sean Jones, Brodney Pool, T.J. Ward and Eric Wright). In 2010 the second-rounder was running back Montario Hardesty, and Sheard and Little were 2011 picks
7. Can any of those 13 second- rounders be considered an impact player -- probably not, unless Sheard or Little have big rookie years, or Hardesty stays healthy. This season, only Massaquoi, Robiskie and Jackson are expected to start for the Browns. That assumes Jackson stays healthy.
8. From an emotional standpoint, it's often hard for a new front office (or a losing one) to draft linemen at the top of the draft. Linemen rarely generate much excitement from the fan base. Yet two of the Browns' best first-round picks this century have been offensive linemen -- Thomas and Mack.
9. Who is the best defensive lineman the Browns have drafted since 1999? It's probably Ahtyba Rubin, a sixth-rounder in 2008. Next would be Warren. Yes, it's a sad state of affairs.
10. Since 1999, only the following draft choices have made the Pro Bowl: Edwards (2008), Winslow (2008), Thomas (2008-11), Mack (2011), and Ryan Pontbriand (2009). Undrafted Joshua Cribbs made it in 2008 and 2010. But the only real star in this group is Thomas -- one big-time player for all those picks between 1999 and 2009.
11. It's too early to fully evaluate the 2010 draft, but the Browns did come out of it with three starters in Haden, Ward and McCoy -- a good start for GM Tom Heckert.
12. There have been five regimes doing the drafting since 1999: (Dwight Clark, 1999-2000), Butch Davis (2001-04), Phil Savage (2005-08), Eric Mangini (2009) and Heckert (2010-11). With all that change, it's no surprise so many picks have been wasted and traded.
http://www.cleveland.com/pluto/blog/index.ssf/2011/07/draft_neglect_digs_holes_in_cl.html
Published: Sunday, July 03, 2011, 12:00 AM Updated: Sunday, July 03, 2011, 12:13 AM
Terry Pluto, The Plain Dealer
ABOUT THE BROWNS . . .
1. Every new Browns regime lives with the mistakes of the ones which came before. We all know that, but Eric Grinnell pointed out a different aspect of that in this email:
"I found that from 2002-2009 (eight drafts), the Browns spent only one first-round pick on defense (Kamerion Wimbley, 2006). An even more outrageous fact is that in those same drafts, the Browns picked zero total defensive linemen in rounds 2-4 . . . Although I've been conscious of the fact that the previous regimes didn't spend a lot of draft picks on defense, I never realized how appalling the numbers really are."
2. Grinnell started with the 2002 draft because the Browns selected DT Gerard Warren in 2001 with the No. 3 pick. The lesson from that draft is to never pick a defensive lineman (or anyone else) nicknamed "Big Money." Since the team came back in 1999, the only defensive first-round picks have been Courtney Brown (2000), Warren, Wimbley, Joe Haden (2010) and Phil Taylor (2011).
3. The only first-rounders still with the team since it returned in 1999 are Joe Thomas (2007), Alex Mack (2009), Haden and Taylor. That's not very many. It's also an indication of different people doing the drafting -- and how the new regime often is eager to deal the old regime's players.
4. First-rounders Braylon Edwards (2005), Kellen Winslow II (2004), Jeff Faine (2003) and Wimbley have been traded. Those deals produced Colt McCoy (for Wimbley), Mohamed Massaquoi (Winslow), Chansi Stuckey (Edwards), Jason Trusnik (Edwards), Shawn Lauvao (Edwards) and D'Qwell Jackson (Faine).
5. Grinnell's point is that the Browns have paid little attention to the defensive line in the draft -- which is why there are so many holes today. It's also why the Browns made defensive tackle Taylor and defensive end Jabaal Sheard their first two picks in 2011.
6. The Browns have had 13 second-rounders since 2002. Four have been wide receivers (Andre Davis, Massaquoi, Brian Robiskie and Greg Little). Three have been linebackers (Jackson, Chaun Thompson and David Veikune). Four have been defensive backs (Sean Jones, Brodney Pool, T.J. Ward and Eric Wright). In 2010 the second-rounder was running back Montario Hardesty, and Sheard and Little were 2011 picks
7. Can any of those 13 second- rounders be considered an impact player -- probably not, unless Sheard or Little have big rookie years, or Hardesty stays healthy. This season, only Massaquoi, Robiskie and Jackson are expected to start for the Browns. That assumes Jackson stays healthy.
8. From an emotional standpoint, it's often hard for a new front office (or a losing one) to draft linemen at the top of the draft. Linemen rarely generate much excitement from the fan base. Yet two of the Browns' best first-round picks this century have been offensive linemen -- Thomas and Mack.
9. Who is the best defensive lineman the Browns have drafted since 1999? It's probably Ahtyba Rubin, a sixth-rounder in 2008. Next would be Warren. Yes, it's a sad state of affairs.
10. Since 1999, only the following draft choices have made the Pro Bowl: Edwards (2008), Winslow (2008), Thomas (2008-11), Mack (2011), and Ryan Pontbriand (2009). Undrafted Joshua Cribbs made it in 2008 and 2010. But the only real star in this group is Thomas -- one big-time player for all those picks between 1999 and 2009.
11. It's too early to fully evaluate the 2010 draft, but the Browns did come out of it with three starters in Haden, Ward and McCoy -- a good start for GM Tom Heckert.
12. There have been five regimes doing the drafting since 1999: (Dwight Clark, 1999-2000), Butch Davis (2001-04), Phil Savage (2005-08), Eric Mangini (2009) and Heckert (2010-11). With all that change, it's no surprise so many picks have been wasted and traded.
http://www.cleveland.com/pluto/blog/index.ssf/2011/07/draft_neglect_digs_holes_in_cl.html
DeyDurkie5
Posts: 11,324
Jul 3, 2011 6:59pm
just pretty unbelievable when you think about it, what an enlightening article in the worst possible way
B
BR1986FB
Posts: 24,104
Jul 3, 2011 7:18pm
DeyDurkie5;820690 wrote:just pretty unbelievable when you think about it, what an enlightening article in the worst possible way
You'd think that with all of those drafts that even a one armed blindfolded monkey throwing darts at a dartboard would've had more success....especially with 1st rounders.
B
BR1986FB
Posts: 24,104
Jul 3, 2011 7:59pm
Hb31187
Posts: 8,534
Jul 3, 2011 8:12pm
Comeeee on down to Atlanta, Edwards
B
BR1986FB
Posts: 24,104
Jul 4, 2011 2:03pm
Post Lockout To Do List
By Dave Kolonich
OBR Reporter
Posted Jul 4, 2011
Ten points on how the Browns can navigate post-lockout waters.
In a locked-out NFL, pieces like the following will either quickly become recycled news or will retain an expiration date far beyond their natural life span. In either case, recent reports have suggested that the NFL’s protracted labor dispute may be coming to a resolution in the next several days – or at least before the next phantom deadline is reached.
If such is the case, then the following is an example of how the Browns can navigate the first few weeks of the league’s official offseason. Or, if the labor dispute continues to trickle into August, everything contained here becomes wishful thinking.
1. Sign the Rookies.
This one seems simple enough. GM Tom Heckert’s mega-tradedown with the Falcons relieved the Browns of having to chase dollars with a Top Ten draft pick. In a year where getting rookies signed and delivered to training camp takes on a whole new level of urgency, the Browns should have an easier time with a largely pre-slotted Phil Taylor deal.
Taylor, taken with the draft’s 21st overall pick, is sandwiched between fellow linemen Adrian Clayborn and Anthony Costanzo. Taylor’s rookie deal should be set by Clayborn and may be slightly more than what 2010’s 21st overall draft pick, Jermaine Gresham, received. Gresham signed a five-year deal with guaranteed money in the 10 million dollar range.
After Taylor, the rest of the Browns’ draft picks should fall into place. Although obscene rookie salaries have been a cornerstone of the league’s labor negotiations, most draft picks beyond the first round settle into an easy to follow slotting system – something that probably drives Drew Rosenhaus crazy. This system should allow for the quick signing of Jabaal Sheard and Greg Little – each of whom could challenge for early playing time.
2. Reevaluate Free Agency.
Depending on what a new collective bargaining agreement actually looks like, some players could suddenly find themselves as free agents in what will be a frenzied week or two of auctioneering. The Browns’ D’Qwell Jackson could become one of those players, along with about a few dozen others around the league. Once an afterthought earlier in the offseason, free agency could prove to be a salvation for the eternally rebuilding Browns.
Some of the bigger names available include Antonio Cromartie, Santonio Holmes, Joseph Addai, Sidney Rice and DeAngelo Williams. More importantly, some of the names who could fill a major void among the Browns’ roster are Ray Edwards, Stephen Tulloch, Jeromy Clary, James Jones and Darren Colledge – or insert your own free agent name here.
Again, assuming that free agency is opened up towards the middle of July, the Browns – like every other league team – have to establish their priorities. Since multiple team visits will be lessened, the Browns will likely have to target players from teams already familiar with the Browns and their coaching staff. Or, in an oddly contradictory manner, introduce themselves to the likes of Matt Roth, Lawrence Vickers and Abe Elam.
3. Find a free safety.
It seems like years ago, but after April’s draft, Tom Heckert offered the following regarding the Browns’ safety situation.
"Right now, Mike Adams is penciled in as a guy who's going to play almost all safety for us, but we'll see. There's a few guys in free agency and we'll see what happens with the undrafted rookies, so we still have a couple of options out there."
Mike Adams has been one of my favorite Browns since his arrival in 2007. Adams has served as a solid Special Teams and Dime defender, and has played capably when asked to start – both at safety and cornerback. However, Adams is not a full-time starter and the Browns’ secondary depth is worn thin during the times that he is.
Earlier in the offseason – back before football optimism was swallowed up by a league of litigators – some Browns’ talk was focused on adding a player such as Buffalo’s Donte Whitner to replace Elam. Whitner’s connection to the Browns was evident, as he was one of Dick Jauron’s first Buffalo draft picks. However, other names such as Roman Harper, Melvin Bullitt and Eric Smith could also be available depending on what the new CBA looks like.
Also, in an idyllic framework, the Bengals may have given the rest of the league a gift by placing a high tender on cornerback Jonathan Joseph. Since restricted free agency could become non-existent, Joseph could become unrestricted. A Browns’ addition of Joseph could solve both cornerback and safety issues, as Sheldon Brown could shift to free safety.
4. Name a starting quarterback. And settle the backups.
As I wrote last week, Pat Shurmur needs to distinguish himself from the litany of expansion era Browns’ coaches who have mindlessly shuffled through quarterbacks. Regardless of his eventual choice, Shurmur needs to make a statement from the start of training camp. If Colt McCoy is the guy, then so be it. If not, Shurmur needs to move on to someone else.
From a front office perspective, both Heckert and Mike Holmgren need to follow suit. Since Shurmur is tackling a nearly impossible situation in assuming control of the Browns after the lockout, all parties need to be mindful of the cohesion required to achieve any early success. Having said all this, let’s hope that Heckert was genuine in stating the following.
"Whenever the thing opens up, we'll sit down with Jake and talk to him and decide what's the best for him and for our organization. We have to wait until that happens."
Regardless of the names involved, another return to indecision will again derail a coaching switch in Cleveland. Even harmless statements that Holmgren may make about quarterbacks around the league can kill any momentum that Shurmur – hopefully – creates for himself.
5. Evaluate the defensive ends.
Much of what was stated earlier regarding the safety position and free agency can be applied here. However, there aren’t many defensive ends floating around the free agent market this year – simply because such players hold a tremendous value. Those who may be available, such as Ray Edwards and Ray McDonald, will soon find themselves signing extraordinarily inflated free agent deals.
Knowing this, the Browns have to figure out who on the current roster can actually play defensive end. Unfortunately, the prospects are pretty slim. Currently, Sheard and occasional pass-rusher Marcus Benard would appear to be 2011 starters. Add in a collection of 3-4 linemen left over from last season and the frightening prospects of Brian Schaefering and/or Robaire Smith starting the season is only a few months away.
6. Find a kick returner.
Did I just commit a sacrilegious act with that heading?
For those who didn’t notice last season, Josh Cribbs’ production plummeted due to a lingering toe and foot injury. In an ideal sense, Cribbs has healed and should return to his electrifying play of the past. However, the league’s rule committee hasn’t done Cribbs any favors, by moving up the kickoff spot five yards in an attempt to reduce the effectiveness of kick returns.
So, perhaps the third time will be the charm for Cribbs in finally establishing himself as an offensive threat. Or at the least, in terms of three, maybe Shurmur will be the first Browns’ coach to figure out how to best utilize Cribbs.
In the process, the Browns may finally have to look towards a future without Cribbs. The prospects of landing one of the fastest players in the draft in Buster Skrine could prove to be a revelation for a team that is still one of the slowest in the league in all three phases.
7. Pay Joe Thomas.
Remember the endless crusading that both players and fans performed in 2009 on behalf of Cribbs receiving a much-deserved new contract? Let’s hope that what Holmgren eventually gave Cribbs will be doubled or even tripled when it comes to paying the Browns’ most valuable player in Joe Thomas.
Thomas’ 2007 rookie contract features a sixth year, which can be voided – ultimately making him a free agent after the 2011 season. Thomas has proven to be one of the top left tackles in the league and more importantly, has solidified what was a glaring weakness prior to his arrival. Regardless of any progress the Browns make in 2011, keeping Thomas long-term should quickly become a high priority.
By Dave Kolonich
OBR Reporter
Posted Jul 4, 2011
Ten points on how the Browns can navigate post-lockout waters.
In a locked-out NFL, pieces like the following will either quickly become recycled news or will retain an expiration date far beyond their natural life span. In either case, recent reports have suggested that the NFL’s protracted labor dispute may be coming to a resolution in the next several days – or at least before the next phantom deadline is reached.
If such is the case, then the following is an example of how the Browns can navigate the first few weeks of the league’s official offseason. Or, if the labor dispute continues to trickle into August, everything contained here becomes wishful thinking.
1. Sign the Rookies.
This one seems simple enough. GM Tom Heckert’s mega-tradedown with the Falcons relieved the Browns of having to chase dollars with a Top Ten draft pick. In a year where getting rookies signed and delivered to training camp takes on a whole new level of urgency, the Browns should have an easier time with a largely pre-slotted Phil Taylor deal.
Taylor, taken with the draft’s 21st overall pick, is sandwiched between fellow linemen Adrian Clayborn and Anthony Costanzo. Taylor’s rookie deal should be set by Clayborn and may be slightly more than what 2010’s 21st overall draft pick, Jermaine Gresham, received. Gresham signed a five-year deal with guaranteed money in the 10 million dollar range.
After Taylor, the rest of the Browns’ draft picks should fall into place. Although obscene rookie salaries have been a cornerstone of the league’s labor negotiations, most draft picks beyond the first round settle into an easy to follow slotting system – something that probably drives Drew Rosenhaus crazy. This system should allow for the quick signing of Jabaal Sheard and Greg Little – each of whom could challenge for early playing time.
2. Reevaluate Free Agency.
Depending on what a new collective bargaining agreement actually looks like, some players could suddenly find themselves as free agents in what will be a frenzied week or two of auctioneering. The Browns’ D’Qwell Jackson could become one of those players, along with about a few dozen others around the league. Once an afterthought earlier in the offseason, free agency could prove to be a salvation for the eternally rebuilding Browns.
Some of the bigger names available include Antonio Cromartie, Santonio Holmes, Joseph Addai, Sidney Rice and DeAngelo Williams. More importantly, some of the names who could fill a major void among the Browns’ roster are Ray Edwards, Stephen Tulloch, Jeromy Clary, James Jones and Darren Colledge – or insert your own free agent name here.
Again, assuming that free agency is opened up towards the middle of July, the Browns – like every other league team – have to establish their priorities. Since multiple team visits will be lessened, the Browns will likely have to target players from teams already familiar with the Browns and their coaching staff. Or, in an oddly contradictory manner, introduce themselves to the likes of Matt Roth, Lawrence Vickers and Abe Elam.
3. Find a free safety.
It seems like years ago, but after April’s draft, Tom Heckert offered the following regarding the Browns’ safety situation.
"Right now, Mike Adams is penciled in as a guy who's going to play almost all safety for us, but we'll see. There's a few guys in free agency and we'll see what happens with the undrafted rookies, so we still have a couple of options out there."
Mike Adams has been one of my favorite Browns since his arrival in 2007. Adams has served as a solid Special Teams and Dime defender, and has played capably when asked to start – both at safety and cornerback. However, Adams is not a full-time starter and the Browns’ secondary depth is worn thin during the times that he is.
Earlier in the offseason – back before football optimism was swallowed up by a league of litigators – some Browns’ talk was focused on adding a player such as Buffalo’s Donte Whitner to replace Elam. Whitner’s connection to the Browns was evident, as he was one of Dick Jauron’s first Buffalo draft picks. However, other names such as Roman Harper, Melvin Bullitt and Eric Smith could also be available depending on what the new CBA looks like.
Also, in an idyllic framework, the Bengals may have given the rest of the league a gift by placing a high tender on cornerback Jonathan Joseph. Since restricted free agency could become non-existent, Joseph could become unrestricted. A Browns’ addition of Joseph could solve both cornerback and safety issues, as Sheldon Brown could shift to free safety.
4. Name a starting quarterback. And settle the backups.
As I wrote last week, Pat Shurmur needs to distinguish himself from the litany of expansion era Browns’ coaches who have mindlessly shuffled through quarterbacks. Regardless of his eventual choice, Shurmur needs to make a statement from the start of training camp. If Colt McCoy is the guy, then so be it. If not, Shurmur needs to move on to someone else.
From a front office perspective, both Heckert and Mike Holmgren need to follow suit. Since Shurmur is tackling a nearly impossible situation in assuming control of the Browns after the lockout, all parties need to be mindful of the cohesion required to achieve any early success. Having said all this, let’s hope that Heckert was genuine in stating the following.
"Whenever the thing opens up, we'll sit down with Jake and talk to him and decide what's the best for him and for our organization. We have to wait until that happens."
Regardless of the names involved, another return to indecision will again derail a coaching switch in Cleveland. Even harmless statements that Holmgren may make about quarterbacks around the league can kill any momentum that Shurmur – hopefully – creates for himself.
5. Evaluate the defensive ends.
Much of what was stated earlier regarding the safety position and free agency can be applied here. However, there aren’t many defensive ends floating around the free agent market this year – simply because such players hold a tremendous value. Those who may be available, such as Ray Edwards and Ray McDonald, will soon find themselves signing extraordinarily inflated free agent deals.
Knowing this, the Browns have to figure out who on the current roster can actually play defensive end. Unfortunately, the prospects are pretty slim. Currently, Sheard and occasional pass-rusher Marcus Benard would appear to be 2011 starters. Add in a collection of 3-4 linemen left over from last season and the frightening prospects of Brian Schaefering and/or Robaire Smith starting the season is only a few months away.
6. Find a kick returner.
Did I just commit a sacrilegious act with that heading?
For those who didn’t notice last season, Josh Cribbs’ production plummeted due to a lingering toe and foot injury. In an ideal sense, Cribbs has healed and should return to his electrifying play of the past. However, the league’s rule committee hasn’t done Cribbs any favors, by moving up the kickoff spot five yards in an attempt to reduce the effectiveness of kick returns.
So, perhaps the third time will be the charm for Cribbs in finally establishing himself as an offensive threat. Or at the least, in terms of three, maybe Shurmur will be the first Browns’ coach to figure out how to best utilize Cribbs.
In the process, the Browns may finally have to look towards a future without Cribbs. The prospects of landing one of the fastest players in the draft in Buster Skrine could prove to be a revelation for a team that is still one of the slowest in the league in all three phases.
7. Pay Joe Thomas.
Remember the endless crusading that both players and fans performed in 2009 on behalf of Cribbs receiving a much-deserved new contract? Let’s hope that what Holmgren eventually gave Cribbs will be doubled or even tripled when it comes to paying the Browns’ most valuable player in Joe Thomas.
Thomas’ 2007 rookie contract features a sixth year, which can be voided – ultimately making him a free agent after the 2011 season. Thomas has proven to be one of the top left tackles in the league and more importantly, has solidified what was a glaring weakness prior to his arrival. Regardless of any progress the Browns make in 2011, keeping Thomas long-term should quickly become a high priority.
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BR1986FB
Posts: 24,104
Jul 4, 2011 2:04pm
Continued with link...
8. Find some backup linebackers.
Over the past few weeks, there was a local story written about 2009 draft pick Kaluka Maiava, detailing his injury rehabilitation. Because of the lockout and tri-annual coaching change, I had completely forgotten that Maiava was still on the Browns’ roster. However, since the Browns will likely operate with injury-prone starters Jackson and Scott Fujita, the value of Maiava skyrockets.
Although past Maiava – who played all of two games in 2010 – the linebacker depth is beyond thin. As of now, special teams talent such as Jason Trusnik, Eric Alexander and Blake Costanzo are all that stand between defensive respectability and complete chaos.
9. Raise the stakes for Greg Little.
Let’s see if Shurmur is a man of his word, or at least a follower of a local reporter’s tweets. A couple of months ago, it was implied that Little could become the Browns’ “number one receiver.” In theory, such an event is almost impossible in the NFL, as wide receivers normally take 2-3 years to fully develop. However, in Cleveland, Little may have a great chance to immediately contribute – especially given the limited resources currently available at his position.
Entering 2011, both Mohamed Massaquoi and Brian Robiskie could experience the often mythical “third-year leap” that has historically occurred around the league. However, given the installation of yet another new offense, such a potential advantage could be negated. As for Little, he is beginning on the same page as his veteran counterparts and as such, could be expected to perform at a higher level than an average rookie wideout.
If such an idea is relevant, than it needs to be quickly expressed to Little.
9A. Or get some other receiving help.
Following April’s draft, Heckert gave the following slightly tepid response regarding his team’s pass catching talent.
"We added a tight end, and added a fullback that can catch the ball, so I think we did help our receiving as a group. But if we think somebody can improve us, we'll do it."
Unless anyone thinks the Browns’ current level of talent is comparable to past Super Bowl winners, I’m guessing that more improvement is needed. Only quantum leaps by Massaquoi, Robiskie and Carlton Mitchell can improve the Browns’ receiving production.
However, the risks involved in signing a free agent wide receiver complicates what could be viewed as an easy decision. While there is talent available, such as Malcolm Floyd, James Jones and Santonio Holmes, the price tag for even the most marginal of players will prove extraordinarily high.
10. Be realistic.
Browns fans know the drill by now.
A new head coach equates to a renewed sense of faith in the Browns. And for the fifth time in a dozen years, the Browns are once again starting over. However, in defense of the current version of management in charge, at least Shurmur is arriving a year after the installation of Holmgren and Heckert.
Yet, patience will once again become a virtue for Browns fans. The reality of the situation is that the Browns are installing both a new offense and defense in the warped training camp time frame of a post-lockout league. As of now, it’s not even clear which players will be in Berea over the next month or so, let alone who will break through once the season begins.
As a whole, the league will probably display a pattern in which defenses are further ahead of offenses – particularly those whose moving parts are not yet settled. In the Browns’ case, both phases of the game will be lacking.
So, before the howls for endless quarterback changes and coach and coordinator firings commence, we should all prepare ourselves now.
http://cle.scout.com/2/1084208.html
8. Find some backup linebackers.
Over the past few weeks, there was a local story written about 2009 draft pick Kaluka Maiava, detailing his injury rehabilitation. Because of the lockout and tri-annual coaching change, I had completely forgotten that Maiava was still on the Browns’ roster. However, since the Browns will likely operate with injury-prone starters Jackson and Scott Fujita, the value of Maiava skyrockets.
Although past Maiava – who played all of two games in 2010 – the linebacker depth is beyond thin. As of now, special teams talent such as Jason Trusnik, Eric Alexander and Blake Costanzo are all that stand between defensive respectability and complete chaos.
9. Raise the stakes for Greg Little.
Let’s see if Shurmur is a man of his word, or at least a follower of a local reporter’s tweets. A couple of months ago, it was implied that Little could become the Browns’ “number one receiver.” In theory, such an event is almost impossible in the NFL, as wide receivers normally take 2-3 years to fully develop. However, in Cleveland, Little may have a great chance to immediately contribute – especially given the limited resources currently available at his position.
Entering 2011, both Mohamed Massaquoi and Brian Robiskie could experience the often mythical “third-year leap” that has historically occurred around the league. However, given the installation of yet another new offense, such a potential advantage could be negated. As for Little, he is beginning on the same page as his veteran counterparts and as such, could be expected to perform at a higher level than an average rookie wideout.
If such an idea is relevant, than it needs to be quickly expressed to Little.
9A. Or get some other receiving help.
Following April’s draft, Heckert gave the following slightly tepid response regarding his team’s pass catching talent.
"We added a tight end, and added a fullback that can catch the ball, so I think we did help our receiving as a group. But if we think somebody can improve us, we'll do it."
Unless anyone thinks the Browns’ current level of talent is comparable to past Super Bowl winners, I’m guessing that more improvement is needed. Only quantum leaps by Massaquoi, Robiskie and Carlton Mitchell can improve the Browns’ receiving production.
However, the risks involved in signing a free agent wide receiver complicates what could be viewed as an easy decision. While there is talent available, such as Malcolm Floyd, James Jones and Santonio Holmes, the price tag for even the most marginal of players will prove extraordinarily high.
10. Be realistic.
Browns fans know the drill by now.
A new head coach equates to a renewed sense of faith in the Browns. And for the fifth time in a dozen years, the Browns are once again starting over. However, in defense of the current version of management in charge, at least Shurmur is arriving a year after the installation of Holmgren and Heckert.
Yet, patience will once again become a virtue for Browns fans. The reality of the situation is that the Browns are installing both a new offense and defense in the warped training camp time frame of a post-lockout league. As of now, it’s not even clear which players will be in Berea over the next month or so, let alone who will break through once the season begins.
As a whole, the league will probably display a pattern in which defenses are further ahead of offenses – particularly those whose moving parts are not yet settled. In the Browns’ case, both phases of the game will be lacking.
So, before the howls for endless quarterback changes and coach and coordinator firings commence, we should all prepare ourselves now.
http://cle.scout.com/2/1084208.html
B
BR1986FB
Posts: 24,104
Jul 5, 2011 9:29am
For all of the bitchy whining we heard about "Pay Josh Cribbs", somebody needs to start a "Pay Joe Thomas" crusade...a MORE "worthy" cause....
like_that
Posts: 26,625
Jul 5, 2011 10:31am
BR1986FB;821345 wrote:For all of the bitchy whining we heard about "Pay Josh Cribbs", somebody needs to start a "Pay Joe Thomas" crusade...a MORE "worthy" cause....
Oh, he will get paid. There is no doubt about that.
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BR1986FB
Posts: 24,104
Jul 5, 2011 10:37am
like_that;821384 wrote:Oh, he will get paid. There is no doubt about that.
Hopefully it's NOT by the Packers...
like_that
Posts: 26,625
Jul 5, 2011 10:39am
BR1986FB;821387 wrote:Hopefully it's NOT by the Packers...
Franchise tag him.
royal_k
Posts: 4,423
Jul 5, 2011 11:05am
like_that;821388 wrote:Franchise tag him.
+1
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BR1986FB
Posts: 24,104
Jul 11, 2011 11:55am
Commander of Awesome
Posts: 23,151
Jul 12, 2011 8:10am
like_that;821388 wrote:Franchise tag him.
Yup, should be the easiest no brainer decision for the org if they can't resign him.
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BR1986FB
Posts: 24,104
Jul 12, 2011 8:39am
Commander of Awesome
Posts: 23,151
Jul 12, 2011 9:01am
good to hear, though I'm a little concerned about Sheldon Brown. Any word on if Skrine was there?