It was an uneventful week for the Steelers at OTAs, which is exactly what you want.
Teams make news at OTAs for two reasons:
1. Somebody is disgruntled and either speaks out about it or isn't at OTAs because of it.
2. Somebody gets injured.
The Steelers have no such problems right now.
Troy Polamalu wasn't here this week, but that really doesn't matter. In fact, it's a good thing.
Why?
Quite simply, the Steelers backup safeties, Robert Golden, DaMon Cromartie-Smith and Shamarko Thomas, need as much practice time as possible. And with Polamalu hanging around, that's not going to happen.
Plus, Polamalu is back in California working out with his own trainers, something that is needed after an injury-plagued 2012 season.
* June 1 is finally here and the Steelers will realize some salary cap savings from the release of Willie Colon.
Much of that money will be eaten up by the team's rookie signings. But they will still have some extra space to sign a veteran or two or work out some long-term extensions with guys heading into the final season of their contract.
Who might those be?
An extension of a year or two with defensive end Brett Keisel would be welcome and could offer some additional cap relief. The same goes for Polamalu and/or fellow safety Ryan Clark and tight end Heath Miller.
The team would also do well to work out some kind of extension with Emmanuel Sanders and/or defensive end Ziggy Hood.
It will be interesting to see which players the Steelers target for extensions heading into training camp.
Friday, May 31, 2013
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Steelers to be part of national broadcasts
ESPN
Radio has signed individual multi-year agreements with the New York Giants, New
York Jets, New England Patriots, Pittsburgh Steelers and Miami Dolphins for
out-of-market Sunday afternoon syndication rights beginning with the 2013
season. These agreements mark the first time ESPN Radio will broadcast NFL game
action nationally on its over-the-air terrestrial network.
The
teams will continue to broadcast in their home markets through their official
local stations.
“Adding
the NFL to ESPN Radio’s play-by-play mix, which already includes MLB, NBA, BCS,
and the new college football championship starting in 2015, strengthens an
already unparalleled and valuable lineup to advertisers, our affiliates and
sports fans,” said Traug Keller, ESPN senior vice president, production
business divisions. “We are excited to enter the NFL game business.”
ESPN
NFL analysts Herm Edwards, Bill Polian and Damien Woody will each work several
of ESPN Radio’s national broadcasts. Additional commentators and the
complete schedule will be announced at a later date.
Friday, May 24, 2013
First week of OTAs wrap up
The Steelers wrapped up their first week of OTAs and it was an eventful week - as OTAs go.
Here's what we have learned:
* LaMarr Woodley came into town in shape but he doesn't care who the deep throat was that blasted him for not working as hard as possible in the offseason.
Woodley looks, to me, the same as he always has. He's a thick linebacker - always has been.
The BS about him being out of shape, in my opinion, is just that.
He played last season after suffering a high ankle sprain. Those are largely unavoidable.
Had his issue again been a hamstring problem, then maybe there would have been something to him being out of shape. As it is, however, there is not.
* Troy Polamalu has changed his workout habits to concentrate more on protecting his right calf, which has bothered him since 2010.
Polamalu said his calf issues of 2012 were "avoidable," and feels his work with a physical therapist will keep them from recurring in 2013.
He also did not sound like a guy who was going to be ready to hang up his helmet at the end of the 2013 season as some have speculated.
* Rookie running back LeVeon Bell and veteran Isaac Redman both look leaner than advertised.
Redman lost his weight in an effort to get quicker, while Bell lost his weight to get faster for the combine.
But the Steelers won't mind if Bell puts his 10 or so pounds back on.
* Marcus Gilbert is getting first shot at left tackle, with Mike Adams on the right side.
That is due, in very large part, to the run blocking ability Adams showed when he played right tackle in 2012. With Adams at right tackle, the Steelers had some of their best rushing days of the season.
Here's what we have learned:
* LaMarr Woodley came into town in shape but he doesn't care who the deep throat was that blasted him for not working as hard as possible in the offseason.
Woodley looks, to me, the same as he always has. He's a thick linebacker - always has been.
The BS about him being out of shape, in my opinion, is just that.
He played last season after suffering a high ankle sprain. Those are largely unavoidable.
Had his issue again been a hamstring problem, then maybe there would have been something to him being out of shape. As it is, however, there is not.
* Troy Polamalu has changed his workout habits to concentrate more on protecting his right calf, which has bothered him since 2010.
Polamalu said his calf issues of 2012 were "avoidable," and feels his work with a physical therapist will keep them from recurring in 2013.
He also did not sound like a guy who was going to be ready to hang up his helmet at the end of the 2013 season as some have speculated.
* Rookie running back LeVeon Bell and veteran Isaac Redman both look leaner than advertised.
Redman lost his weight in an effort to get quicker, while Bell lost his weight to get faster for the combine.
But the Steelers won't mind if Bell puts his 10 or so pounds back on.
* Marcus Gilbert is getting first shot at left tackle, with Mike Adams on the right side.
That is due, in very large part, to the run blocking ability Adams showed when he played right tackle in 2012. With Adams at right tackle, the Steelers had some of their best rushing days of the season.
Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Steelers open OTAs
The Steelers opened their OTAs today with very good attendance.
Per Steelers rules, I can't report on who lined up where or how many times, but I can tell you some other things:
* Troy Polamalu said he's been working with a physical therapist on his calf and he feels like his 2012 season was "avoidable."
In fact, Polamalu feels so good about his rehab, he says the calf injury - which has bothered him since 2010 - is now behind him.
* Saw Heath Miller at the facility walking around. He didn't have a brace on his knee and wasn't limping.
Now that's a long way from being ready to get back on the football field, but it's a good sign.
* I tried to talk to LaMarr Woodley today, but he blew me off. Woodley did look to be in good shape.
* Had a nice talk with rookie receiver Justin Brown today. Seemed like a good kid and said his decision to transfer from Penn State to Oklahoma was one of the toughest decisions he made in his life.
* Ike Taylor said Cortez Allen is going to make life "hell" on a lot of opposing receivers this year.
* Emmanuel Sanders wouldn't talk about his flirtations with the Patriots, simply saying, "I'm a Pittsburgh Steeler."
Sanders said he wants to stay here and is open to a long-term contract.
Per Steelers rules, I can't report on who lined up where or how many times, but I can tell you some other things:
* Troy Polamalu said he's been working with a physical therapist on his calf and he feels like his 2012 season was "avoidable."
In fact, Polamalu feels so good about his rehab, he says the calf injury - which has bothered him since 2010 - is now behind him.
* Saw Heath Miller at the facility walking around. He didn't have a brace on his knee and wasn't limping.
Now that's a long way from being ready to get back on the football field, but it's a good sign.
* I tried to talk to LaMarr Woodley today, but he blew me off. Woodley did look to be in good shape.
* Had a nice talk with rookie receiver Justin Brown today. Seemed like a good kid and said his decision to transfer from Penn State to Oklahoma was one of the toughest decisions he made in his life.
* Ike Taylor said Cortez Allen is going to make life "hell" on a lot of opposing receivers this year.
* Emmanuel Sanders wouldn't talk about his flirtations with the Patriots, simply saying, "I'm a Pittsburgh Steeler."
Sanders said he wants to stay here and is open to a long-term contract.
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Roethlisberger underrated? Absolutely
Frequent visitors to this blog should be well aware of how I feel about offseason rankings of this and that. They are dreamed up by TV and web site execs to keep people watching and visiting their sites.
But the NFL Network's top 100 players - which is also run on NFL.com - is voted on by the players. And Ben Roethlisberger ranked 61st.
That's right, 61st.
Does anyone in their right mind actually believe that Roethlisberger is the 61st best player in the NFL right now. Does anybody think if all the teams were dissolved and there was a redraft of players by a new league that Roethlisberger would be the 61st player selected?
Maybe in fantasy football. But in the real world, Roethlisberger is one of the 20 best players and most valuable players in the league.
Yet on this list, there are 11 quarterbacks ranked ahead of him. Seriously.
Yes, Roethlisberger is now 31 and missed three games in 2012 with a rib/clavicle injury. Yet he still threw for over 3,200 yards with 26 touchdown passes and just eight interceptions - all without any threat of a running game.
That got him ranked two spots ahead of Stephen Tulloch. Who's Stephen Tulloch, you might ask? He's a linebacker for the Detroit Lions. Yes, those same Lions who make the playoffs as often as your Pittsburgh Pirates.
Knowing Roethlisberger, this slight will fuel him. He was having an outstanding season in 2013 before suffering the injury and wasn't the same player after coming back.
But Roethlisberger is as competitive as anyone I've ever covered. He won't say it publicly, but he'll use this slight to come back with an even better year.
But the NFL Network's top 100 players - which is also run on NFL.com - is voted on by the players. And Ben Roethlisberger ranked 61st.
That's right, 61st.
Does anyone in their right mind actually believe that Roethlisberger is the 61st best player in the NFL right now. Does anybody think if all the teams were dissolved and there was a redraft of players by a new league that Roethlisberger would be the 61st player selected?
Maybe in fantasy football. But in the real world, Roethlisberger is one of the 20 best players and most valuable players in the league.
Yet on this list, there are 11 quarterbacks ranked ahead of him. Seriously.
Yes, Roethlisberger is now 31 and missed three games in 2012 with a rib/clavicle injury. Yet he still threw for over 3,200 yards with 26 touchdown passes and just eight interceptions - all without any threat of a running game.
That got him ranked two spots ahead of Stephen Tulloch. Who's Stephen Tulloch, you might ask? He's a linebacker for the Detroit Lions. Yes, those same Lions who make the playoffs as often as your Pittsburgh Pirates.
Knowing Roethlisberger, this slight will fuel him. He was having an outstanding season in 2013 before suffering the injury and wasn't the same player after coming back.
But Roethlisberger is as competitive as anyone I've ever covered. He won't say it publicly, but he'll use this slight to come back with an even better year.
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Players I expect to make a leap forward for Steelers
A lot has been made of the Steelers' losses this offseason, and certainly there have been more than a few.
But the Steelers also have a number of young players poised to make big steps forward in 2013 who could help this team return to the playoffs.
Here are some guys I expect big things from in 2013 who didn't necessarily star in 2012:
1. David DeCastro/Mike Adams - I have combined these two because injuries derailed their rookie season, though both played enough for the Steelers to feel comfortable handing them starting jobs heading into 2013. DeCastro will line up at right guard and should be a fixture there for years to come. Adams will compete with Marcus Gilbert for the left tackle position, with the loser of that battle slated for right tackle. Adams is the more physical run blocker of the two, but he's also better suited to play left tackle.
2. Steve McLendon - McLendon has been on fans' radar for the past two seasons but averaged just over 10 snaps per game in 2012 playing behind Casey Hampton. That will change in 2013 as McLendon is slated to take over the nose tackle position. He's a different style of nose tackle than Hampton, playing more like Chris Hoke. That could add up to more pass pressure from the nose position, but will the run defense suffer? We'll see.
3. Curtis Brown - With fellow 2011 draft classmate Cortez Allen headed to the starting lineup, some are labeling Brown, who was actually selected ahead of Allen in the draft, a bust. No so fast. This is a make-or-break year for Brown and he knows it. He could win the slot job in a battle with William Gay and Josh Victorian, though Gay certainly has the experience factor in his favor. Brown, however, might have the best hands of the Steelers' defensive backs not named Troy Polamalu.
4. Adrian Robinson - All you need to know about Robinson is that when the team's offensive tackles needed somebody to work with on stopping outside rushers, they grabbed Robinson to work with. He's not going to be a starter and he needs to figure out what to do on special teams, but the young man has shown flashes of pass rushing skills. If he can put it all together, he could be a valuable backup.
5. Robert Golden - The Steelers liked what they saw from Golden enough that they felt comfortable passing on a number of highly rated safeties in the draft. He can play corner as well in a pinch. A smart kid who oozes with confidence, Golden could be the heir apparent to Ryan Clark.
But the Steelers also have a number of young players poised to make big steps forward in 2013 who could help this team return to the playoffs.
Here are some guys I expect big things from in 2013 who didn't necessarily star in 2012:
1. David DeCastro/Mike Adams - I have combined these two because injuries derailed their rookie season, though both played enough for the Steelers to feel comfortable handing them starting jobs heading into 2013. DeCastro will line up at right guard and should be a fixture there for years to come. Adams will compete with Marcus Gilbert for the left tackle position, with the loser of that battle slated for right tackle. Adams is the more physical run blocker of the two, but he's also better suited to play left tackle.
2. Steve McLendon - McLendon has been on fans' radar for the past two seasons but averaged just over 10 snaps per game in 2012 playing behind Casey Hampton. That will change in 2013 as McLendon is slated to take over the nose tackle position. He's a different style of nose tackle than Hampton, playing more like Chris Hoke. That could add up to more pass pressure from the nose position, but will the run defense suffer? We'll see.
3. Curtis Brown - With fellow 2011 draft classmate Cortez Allen headed to the starting lineup, some are labeling Brown, who was actually selected ahead of Allen in the draft, a bust. No so fast. This is a make-or-break year for Brown and he knows it. He could win the slot job in a battle with William Gay and Josh Victorian, though Gay certainly has the experience factor in his favor. Brown, however, might have the best hands of the Steelers' defensive backs not named Troy Polamalu.
4. Adrian Robinson - All you need to know about Robinson is that when the team's offensive tackles needed somebody to work with on stopping outside rushers, they grabbed Robinson to work with. He's not going to be a starter and he needs to figure out what to do on special teams, but the young man has shown flashes of pass rushing skills. If he can put it all together, he could be a valuable backup.
5. Robert Golden - The Steelers liked what they saw from Golden enough that they felt comfortable passing on a number of highly rated safeties in the draft. He can play corner as well in a pinch. A smart kid who oozes with confidence, Golden could be the heir apparent to Ryan Clark.
Wednesday, May 08, 2013
It's that silly time of year
With little going on right now in the NFL, it's time for the pundits to go to work handing out draft grades, team rankings and other meaningless things.
It's all designed to keep NFL fans interested in the sport in the offseason.
And it usually works.
Something jumped out at me today on the NFL.com web site.
Bucky Brooks rated the teams that had the best draft and listed the Steelers among the few teams he gave an A.
And another article on the site debated which rookie running back would have the biggest impact in 2013, with Steelers second-round pick Le'Veon Bell getting a lot of attention.
But then, on the site's power rankings, the Steelers actually moved down two spots to No. 19, behind such stalwarts as Chicago (Seriously?), Miami (Come on) and St. Louis (Please).
Power rankings are silly. I used to do them on this site in an effort to fill space. But I grew weary of trying to figure out which team was better than another even though they had played and that one did this, well, you get the idea. It's an exercise in futility.
But saying that the Steelers had one of the best drafts and then moving them down two spots in the rankings makes no sense. Then again, that's exactly my point with power rankings.
It's all designed to keep NFL fans interested in the sport in the offseason.
And it usually works.
Something jumped out at me today on the NFL.com web site.
Bucky Brooks rated the teams that had the best draft and listed the Steelers among the few teams he gave an A.
And another article on the site debated which rookie running back would have the biggest impact in 2013, with Steelers second-round pick Le'Veon Bell getting a lot of attention.
But then, on the site's power rankings, the Steelers actually moved down two spots to No. 19, behind such stalwarts as Chicago (Seriously?), Miami (Come on) and St. Louis (Please).
Power rankings are silly. I used to do them on this site in an effort to fill space. But I grew weary of trying to figure out which team was better than another even though they had played and that one did this, well, you get the idea. It's an exercise in futility.
But saying that the Steelers had one of the best drafts and then moving them down two spots in the rankings makes no sense. Then again, that's exactly my point with power rankings.
Monday, May 06, 2013
Starks goes out with a Whimper
The Steelers on Monday signed veteran offensive tackle Guy Whimper, who spent the past three seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars, likely spelling the end of Max Starks' tenure in Pittsburgh.
There had been some conjecture that the Steelers might want to wait and re-sign Starks, their starting left, at some point before training camp to serve as a backup/fallback plan to either Mike Adams or Marcus Gilbert at the left tackle position.
But with Whimper now under contract, that seems unlikely.
Either Adams or Gilbert will start at left tackle, with the other playing right tackle. Kelvin Beachum will be fallback option No. 1, with Whimper, who has made 22 career starts in seven seasons, being the second option.
The Steelers also signed rookie linebacker Terence Garvin, who spent the weekend with them at their rookie camp as a tryout.
Garvin played in 47 games at West Virginia, making 235 tackles with 10.5 sacks and three interceptions.
To make room on the roster for those moves, the Steelers released rookie center Ivory Wade and rookie defensive tackle Anthony Rashad White.
There had been some conjecture that the Steelers might want to wait and re-sign Starks, their starting left, at some point before training camp to serve as a backup/fallback plan to either Mike Adams or Marcus Gilbert at the left tackle position.
But with Whimper now under contract, that seems unlikely.
Either Adams or Gilbert will start at left tackle, with the other playing right tackle. Kelvin Beachum will be fallback option No. 1, with Whimper, who has made 22 career starts in seven seasons, being the second option.
The Steelers also signed rookie linebacker Terence Garvin, who spent the weekend with them at their rookie camp as a tryout.
Garvin played in 47 games at West Virginia, making 235 tackles with 10.5 sacks and three interceptions.
To make room on the roster for those moves, the Steelers released rookie center Ivory Wade and rookie defensive tackle Anthony Rashad White.
Rookie camp completed
The Steelers and their 41 rookies and first-year players completed their first weekend of working with the team.
By all accounts, the team came away happy with what it saw.
First-round pick Jarvis Jones came off like James Farrior in interviews - thoughtful and humble - and looked the part on the field.
Second-round pick Le'Veon Bell showed why the Steelers thought so highly of him, displaying some wiggle in the open field to go along with his combination of size and speed.
Forget the idea of Bell "sharing" the workload for the Steelers. He's the favorite to start and get 300 carries.
Third-rounder Markus Wheaton is extremely quick and was sharp running his routes.
Fourth-rounder Shamarko Thomas appears as if he'll be a special teams star, while also stepping into the safety rotation - on the strong side - once he gets the nuances of Dick LeBeau's defense down.
Landry Jones had a tough weekend, but that's not all that out of the ordinary for a quarterback learning a new vernacular with new receivers.
Priority free agent wideout Reggie Dunn has a legitimate shot at making this team despite his lack of size. The 5-8 speedster is as fast as his 4.25 40-time would suggest and is elusive and quick enough to play gunner on coverage units. I should also mention that he returned five kickoffs 100 or more yards in college.
Offensive lineman Nik Embernate is another priority free agent with an excellent chance of making this team. The powerful guard is nasty to the bone. Can't wait to see him hitting people for real once training camp begins.
By all accounts, the team came away happy with what it saw.
First-round pick Jarvis Jones came off like James Farrior in interviews - thoughtful and humble - and looked the part on the field.
Second-round pick Le'Veon Bell showed why the Steelers thought so highly of him, displaying some wiggle in the open field to go along with his combination of size and speed.
Forget the idea of Bell "sharing" the workload for the Steelers. He's the favorite to start and get 300 carries.
Third-rounder Markus Wheaton is extremely quick and was sharp running his routes.
Fourth-rounder Shamarko Thomas appears as if he'll be a special teams star, while also stepping into the safety rotation - on the strong side - once he gets the nuances of Dick LeBeau's defense down.
Landry Jones had a tough weekend, but that's not all that out of the ordinary for a quarterback learning a new vernacular with new receivers.
Priority free agent wideout Reggie Dunn has a legitimate shot at making this team despite his lack of size. The 5-8 speedster is as fast as his 4.25 40-time would suggest and is elusive and quick enough to play gunner on coverage units. I should also mention that he returned five kickoffs 100 or more yards in college.
Offensive lineman Nik Embernate is another priority free agent with an excellent chance of making this team. The powerful guard is nasty to the bone. Can't wait to see him hitting people for real once training camp begins.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
More info on fifth through seventh round picks
Some posters asked for more information on the Steelers' picks after Round 5. Here ya go.
Round 5
Terry Hawthorne, CB, Illinois - Good size at 6-0, 190 pounds. Fits the Steelers profile for cornerbacks. A willing tackler. Played for a horrible college team in 2012 but appeared in 44 career games, making 26
starts and posting 163 tackles, 12.5 TFLs, 1.0 sack, six interceptions, including two pick-sixes,
and 28 passes defended. Also returned kicks. Has above-average speed, running a 4.31 40 at the combine. MVP of his team's bowl win over UCLA in 2011 when he returned an interception for a score.
Round 6A
Justin Brown, WR, Oklahoma - Transferred from Penn State. Excellent size at 6-3, 209. Started
39 of 49 games played in his career, registering 146 receptions for 1,926 yards (13.2 avg.) with
eight receiving touchdowns. Recorded 637 yards on 71 career punt returns (9.0 avg.) with one
touchdown. Not a burner, but ran 4.6 at his pro day. Was fourth-round pick Landry Jones' top target in 2012.
Round 6B
Vince Williams, LB, Florida State - Played in 50 games during his career, starting 26 games during his final two seasons. Though listed at 6-1, 250, he was 6-0 1/2, 233 at his pro day. Reasonably productive with 140 tackles (86 solo), three sacks, 13.5 tackles for loss, one fumble recovery, seven passes defensed and one interception in his career. Sometimes gets lost in the shuffle. Played on an outstanding college defense with plenty of other pro talent around him and finished fourth with 59 tackles. Was one of four team captains his senior year and was given the defense's leadership award at the conclusion of the season. Missed all of 2009 with a back injury.
Round 7
Nicholas Williams, DE, 6-4, 309 - Didn't take up football until his senior year in high school, focusing on basketball before that. Wound up at Samford. Ran a freakish 4.84 40 at the combine, where he was a surprise invite. Not only led defensive tackles in the 40-time at the combine, but had the best vertical leap - 33 inches - as well. Think a poor man's Ziggy Ansah with more size.
Round 5
Terry Hawthorne, CB, Illinois - Good size at 6-0, 190 pounds. Fits the Steelers profile for cornerbacks. A willing tackler. Played for a horrible college team in 2012 but appeared in 44 career games, making 26
starts and posting 163 tackles, 12.5 TFLs, 1.0 sack, six interceptions, including two pick-sixes,
and 28 passes defended. Also returned kicks. Has above-average speed, running a 4.31 40 at the combine. MVP of his team's bowl win over UCLA in 2011 when he returned an interception for a score.
Round 6A
Justin Brown, WR, Oklahoma - Transferred from Penn State. Excellent size at 6-3, 209. Started
39 of 49 games played in his career, registering 146 receptions for 1,926 yards (13.2 avg.) with
eight receiving touchdowns. Recorded 637 yards on 71 career punt returns (9.0 avg.) with one
touchdown. Not a burner, but ran 4.6 at his pro day. Was fourth-round pick Landry Jones' top target in 2012.
Round 6B
Vince Williams, LB, Florida State - Played in 50 games during his career, starting 26 games during his final two seasons. Though listed at 6-1, 250, he was 6-0 1/2, 233 at his pro day. Reasonably productive with 140 tackles (86 solo), three sacks, 13.5 tackles for loss, one fumble recovery, seven passes defensed and one interception in his career. Sometimes gets lost in the shuffle. Played on an outstanding college defense with plenty of other pro talent around him and finished fourth with 59 tackles. Was one of four team captains his senior year and was given the defense's leadership award at the conclusion of the season. Missed all of 2009 with a back injury.
Round 7
Nicholas Williams, DE, 6-4, 309 - Didn't take up football until his senior year in high school, focusing on basketball before that. Wound up at Samford. Ran a freakish 4.84 40 at the combine, where he was a surprise invite. Not only led defensive tackles in the 40-time at the combine, but had the best vertical leap - 33 inches - as well. Think a poor man's Ziggy Ansah with more size.
Steelers add playmakers
Part of the problem the Steelers had in 2012 was a lack of playmakers at the skill positions.
By playmakers, I mean guys who either score touchdowns or turn the ball over to get the ball back for the offense.
The Steelers feel they took a step in the right direction with their new draft class.
First-round pick Jarvis Jones not recorded 14.5 sacks in 2012 and 28 in the past two seasons, he also forced nine fumbles. The strip-sack was something that has been missing in the Steelers defense the past two years.
Running back Le'Veon Bell, the team's second pick, is obviously someone who can score touchdowns, having reached the end zone 33 times at Michigan State.
The Steelers made Bell the second running back taken in this draft, taking him over Eddie Lacy, who didn't pass the team's medical exam due to a toe issue, and Montee Ball, who the team felt had taken too much abuse in college.
The Steelers also liked Bell's pass catching ability more than those two players.
In the third round, Pittsburgh took explosive receiver Markus Wheaton.
Wheaton scored just 16 touchdowns in 49 career games at Oregon State, but that was more of a product of the quarterbacks he played with than it was a knock on his ability.
Despite being 5-11, 182 pounds, Wheaton is strong with the ball in his hands. He's so polished as a runner, the Beavers used him an average of twice per game as a runner. He also averaged seven catches per game in his senior season when he scored 12 receiving touchdowns.
All told, it was a nice haul, particularly in the first three rounds where you have to get potential starters.
By playmakers, I mean guys who either score touchdowns or turn the ball over to get the ball back for the offense.
The Steelers feel they took a step in the right direction with their new draft class.
First-round pick Jarvis Jones not recorded 14.5 sacks in 2012 and 28 in the past two seasons, he also forced nine fumbles. The strip-sack was something that has been missing in the Steelers defense the past two years.
Running back Le'Veon Bell, the team's second pick, is obviously someone who can score touchdowns, having reached the end zone 33 times at Michigan State.
The Steelers made Bell the second running back taken in this draft, taking him over Eddie Lacy, who didn't pass the team's medical exam due to a toe issue, and Montee Ball, who the team felt had taken too much abuse in college.
The Steelers also liked Bell's pass catching ability more than those two players.
In the third round, Pittsburgh took explosive receiver Markus Wheaton.
Wheaton scored just 16 touchdowns in 49 career games at Oregon State, but that was more of a product of the quarterbacks he played with than it was a knock on his ability.
Despite being 5-11, 182 pounds, Wheaton is strong with the ball in his hands. He's so polished as a runner, the Beavers used him an average of twice per game as a runner. He also averaged seven catches per game in his senior season when he scored 12 receiving touchdowns.
All told, it was a nice haul, particularly in the first three rounds where you have to get potential starters.
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Steelers add 15 UFAs
The Steelers have a pretty good idea of who their five starting offensive linemen will be. They also know who their top two backups are: John Malecki and Kelvin Beachum.
Beyond that, however, they have a lot of question marks on the offensive line.
That's why after picking up nine new players in the draft, the Steelers added five offensive linemen as undrafted rookie free agents, the best being guard Nik Embernate of San Diego State. Also signed at that position were offensive tackles Mike Farrell of Penn State and Mike Golic, Jr. of Notre Dame, guard Chris Hubbard of UAB and center Ivory Wade of Baylor.
Golic, of course, is the son of former NFL player and radio show host Mike Golic, Sr.
Also signed by the Steelers were defensive ends Brian Arnfelt of Northwestern and Cordian Hagans of Louisiana-Lafayette, linebacker Alex Baxter of Northern Illinois, wide receivers Reggie Dunn of Utah and J.D. Woods of West Virginia, defensive tackle Athony Rashad White of Michigan State, defensive tackle Omar Hunter of Florida, running back Curtis McNeal of USC and long snapper Luke Ingram of Hawaii.
Interestingly enough, the Steelers did not sign a punter to at least give them another leg at that position behind Drew Butler.
Butler was a bit up and down last season as a rookie and the Steelers do not have another punter on the roster.
Friday, April 26, 2013
Steelers add to backfield
The Steelers passed on Eddie Lacy and Montee Ball, among others, to take running back Le'Veon Bell in the second round of the draft.
While some might question the move - and I didn't have Bell on my second-round list - I found that Lacy had injury issues that caused some concern and the Steelers just liked Bell more than Ball.
As you all know, I like Bob McGinn of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel's draft preview guides. McGinn had Bell rated as the third-best back in this draft, with scouts saying he had the look of a feature back.
Will that be the case? We don't know.
But what we do know is that Bell carried the ball 382 times last season for a team in which he was the entire offense and did not break down. He also catches the ball out of the backfield well.
And at 6-1, 230 pounds, he ran a 4.57 40 and had the fastest three-cone drill among running backs at the combine.
OK, that makes some sense.
Bell doesn't always run like a big man - he doesn't look for contact like Isaac Redman. But that's not always a bad thing either, especially when you'd like to see him stay healthy in the NFL.
The Steelers passed on some good talent to take Bell, including Arthur Brown, D.J. Swearinger and Margus Hunt, three players I think could be stars in the NFL.
Bell had better become the player the Steelers think he will be - Tood Haley compared him to Eddie George - for this one not to bite them in the behind in the future. Brown went to Baltimore, while Hunt went to Cincinnati.
If those two players turn into stars and Bell does not, the Steelers will be reminded of that four times per season.
@ In the third round, the Steelers added a dynamic receiver in Markus Wheaton of Oregon State.
Wheaton finished as Oregon State's all-time leading receiver with 227 career catches. The school produced both Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh, so it's not a joke record - though Johnson and Houshmandzadeh were there at the same time.
He's also got speed to burn. He ran a 4.45 at the combine but says he can run in the 4.3 range. If he can run somewhere in the middle of that, say a 4.37, he's plenty fast enough to help this team replace Mike Wallace.
Wheaton is also far more polished than some of the other receivers that went ahead of him. It was a solid pick.
@ The draft wraps up today. Look for the Steelers to address the safety position in the fourth round - Phillip Thomas of Fresno perhaps - and then add depth on the offensive line, cornerback and inside linebacker as well.
Wheaton's teammate Jordan Poyer would be a possibility in the fourth round at cornerback - he actually returned punts and kicks ahead of Wheaton at the school - as would William & Mary corner B.W. Webb, whom the Steelers had in for a visit.
One late round safety to consider is California University's Rontez Miles, a player the Steelers are very familiar with and like.
While some might question the move - and I didn't have Bell on my second-round list - I found that Lacy had injury issues that caused some concern and the Steelers just liked Bell more than Ball.
As you all know, I like Bob McGinn of the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel's draft preview guides. McGinn had Bell rated as the third-best back in this draft, with scouts saying he had the look of a feature back.
Will that be the case? We don't know.
But what we do know is that Bell carried the ball 382 times last season for a team in which he was the entire offense and did not break down. He also catches the ball out of the backfield well.
And at 6-1, 230 pounds, he ran a 4.57 40 and had the fastest three-cone drill among running backs at the combine.
OK, that makes some sense.
Bell doesn't always run like a big man - he doesn't look for contact like Isaac Redman. But that's not always a bad thing either, especially when you'd like to see him stay healthy in the NFL.
The Steelers passed on some good talent to take Bell, including Arthur Brown, D.J. Swearinger and Margus Hunt, three players I think could be stars in the NFL.
Bell had better become the player the Steelers think he will be - Tood Haley compared him to Eddie George - for this one not to bite them in the behind in the future. Brown went to Baltimore, while Hunt went to Cincinnati.
If those two players turn into stars and Bell does not, the Steelers will be reminded of that four times per season.
@ In the third round, the Steelers added a dynamic receiver in Markus Wheaton of Oregon State.
Wheaton finished as Oregon State's all-time leading receiver with 227 career catches. The school produced both Chad Johnson and T.J. Houshmandzadeh, so it's not a joke record - though Johnson and Houshmandzadeh were there at the same time.
He's also got speed to burn. He ran a 4.45 at the combine but says he can run in the 4.3 range. If he can run somewhere in the middle of that, say a 4.37, he's plenty fast enough to help this team replace Mike Wallace.
Wheaton is also far more polished than some of the other receivers that went ahead of him. It was a solid pick.
@ The draft wraps up today. Look for the Steelers to address the safety position in the fourth round - Phillip Thomas of Fresno perhaps - and then add depth on the offensive line, cornerback and inside linebacker as well.
Wheaton's teammate Jordan Poyer would be a possibility in the fourth round at cornerback - he actually returned punts and kicks ahead of Wheaton at the school - as would William & Mary corner B.W. Webb, whom the Steelers had in for a visit.
One late round safety to consider is California University's Rontez Miles, a player the Steelers are very familiar with and like.
Jones in the first, now what?
Now that the Steelers have selected outside linebacker Jarvis Jones in the first round of the draft, where do they go from here?
The top needs are, in no special order, running back, wide receiver, safety and inside linebacker, with offensive line and quarterback being depth needs.
There is still a lot of talent available at all of those positions, but particularly at WR, RB and safety, even though the safety position got hit harder than usual in the first round.
My top guys still available in no particularl order would be:
Arthur Brown, LB, Kansas State
Kevin Minter, LB, LSU
Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama
Jonathan Franklin, RB, UCLA
Montee Ball, RB, Wisconsin
Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise State - even though it's not a "need"
Justin Hunter, WR, Tennessee
Robert Woods, WR, USC
Keenan Allen, WR, California
Jonathan Cyprien, S, Florida International
Given that there are 10 players listed there and the Steelers pick at 16 in the second round, they should have a good shot at one or more of those listed when they make their second selection - given that there are several top players also available at non-need positions.
If I'm making the pick for the Steelers, I take somebody in the second round who scores touchdowns - ie. a running back or receiver.
The only way that changes for me is if Brown is still on the board. A defensive captain at Kansas State, Brown has been compared positively to Ray Lewis in terms of his leadership and sideline-to-sideline playing ability.
But if the Steelers were able to pull off taking Jones in the first round and taking, say, Franklin or Woods in the second, I think fans would be ecstatic.
The top needs are, in no special order, running back, wide receiver, safety and inside linebacker, with offensive line and quarterback being depth needs.
There is still a lot of talent available at all of those positions, but particularly at WR, RB and safety, even though the safety position got hit harder than usual in the first round.
My top guys still available in no particularl order would be:
Arthur Brown, LB, Kansas State
Kevin Minter, LB, LSU
Eddie Lacy, RB, Alabama
Jonathan Franklin, RB, UCLA
Montee Ball, RB, Wisconsin
Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise State - even though it's not a "need"
Justin Hunter, WR, Tennessee
Robert Woods, WR, USC
Keenan Allen, WR, California
Jonathan Cyprien, S, Florida International
Given that there are 10 players listed there and the Steelers pick at 16 in the second round, they should have a good shot at one or more of those listed when they make their second selection - given that there are several top players also available at non-need positions.
If I'm making the pick for the Steelers, I take somebody in the second round who scores touchdowns - ie. a running back or receiver.
The only way that changes for me is if Brown is still on the board. A defensive captain at Kansas State, Brown has been compared positively to Ray Lewis in terms of his leadership and sideline-to-sideline playing ability.
But if the Steelers were able to pull off taking Jones in the first round and taking, say, Franklin or Woods in the second, I think fans would be ecstatic.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Not buying the Eifert-Steelers connection
I keep seeing mock drafts in the past couple of weeks that link the Steelers to Notre Dame tight end Tyler Eifert in the first round.
Sorry, I'm not buying it.
People are seeing that Heath Miller has a torn ACL and automatically thinking the team needs a replacement. That won't be the case.
The Steelers signed Matt Spaeth and re-signed David Johnson in free agency to help hold the fort until Miller returns to the lineup.
And while Miller's contract will soon be up, I don't expect the Steelers to part ways with one of their team leaders. They'll find a way to get one of the most respected men in their locker room back under contract.
Eifert, in my opinion, would be a wasted pick by this team, a luxury item.
And spare me the comparisons between the Steelers and Patriots. Yes, New England has had success using two tight end sets, but neither of their two tight ends were first round picks.
I like Eifert as a player. But for the Steelers, it would be a poor pick.
Sorry, I'm not buying it.
People are seeing that Heath Miller has a torn ACL and automatically thinking the team needs a replacement. That won't be the case.
The Steelers signed Matt Spaeth and re-signed David Johnson in free agency to help hold the fort until Miller returns to the lineup.
And while Miller's contract will soon be up, I don't expect the Steelers to part ways with one of their team leaders. They'll find a way to get one of the most respected men in their locker room back under contract.
Eifert, in my opinion, would be a wasted pick by this team, a luxury item.
And spare me the comparisons between the Steelers and Patriots. Yes, New England has had success using two tight end sets, but neither of their two tight ends were first round picks.
I like Eifert as a player. But for the Steelers, it would be a poor pick.
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Memo: Kevin Colbert, call Mark Dominik
The Pittsburgh Steelers want to make a trade to acquire more draft picks. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who have already dealt their first-round pick to the New York Jets for Darrelle Revis, want to move back into the first round.
It seems like Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert and Mark Dominik, his counterpart in Tampa, should talk.
Tampa Bay owns the 43rd pick in the draft, a long way to move back from 17 for the Steelers for sure, but I think something could be worked out.
In fact, if I were Colbert, I would insist on a second and third-round pick, plus running back LeGarrette Blount, who got just 41 carries last season after putting together a 1,000-yard season in 2011 when the new coaching staff in Tampa benched him in favor of rookie Doug Martin.
According to Jimmy Johnson's draft value chart - you know, the thing that teams say they don't use but somehow trades always seem to work out pretty close to what the chart says - the 17th pick in the draft is worth 950 points.
Tampa Bay's second and third round picks are worth a combined 685 points.
To me, acquiring a 250-pound former 1,000-yard running back who doesn't turn 27 until December and has a base salary of $1.25 million seems like a bargain.
In fact, the last time the Steelers made such a move to acquire a 250-pound running back who had fallen out of favor with his previous team back in 1996, it worked out pretty good.
I'm not comparing Blount to Jerome Bettis, but for a team in search of a lead runner, Blount would make a lot of sense.
It seems like Steelers general manager Kevin Colbert and Mark Dominik, his counterpart in Tampa, should talk.
Tampa Bay owns the 43rd pick in the draft, a long way to move back from 17 for the Steelers for sure, but I think something could be worked out.
In fact, if I were Colbert, I would insist on a second and third-round pick, plus running back LeGarrette Blount, who got just 41 carries last season after putting together a 1,000-yard season in 2011 when the new coaching staff in Tampa benched him in favor of rookie Doug Martin.
According to Jimmy Johnson's draft value chart - you know, the thing that teams say they don't use but somehow trades always seem to work out pretty close to what the chart says - the 17th pick in the draft is worth 950 points.
Tampa Bay's second and third round picks are worth a combined 685 points.
To me, acquiring a 250-pound former 1,000-yard running back who doesn't turn 27 until December and has a base salary of $1.25 million seems like a bargain.
In fact, the last time the Steelers made such a move to acquire a 250-pound running back who had fallen out of favor with his previous team back in 1996, it worked out pretty good.
I'm not comparing Blount to Jerome Bettis, but for a team in search of a lead runner, Blount would make a lot of sense.
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Final mock draft
Without any clear-cut stars at the skill positions, the 2013 NFL Draft could prove to be one of the more interesting in years. Here’s one look at how things could go in the first round Thursday:
1. Kansas City, Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M – The Chiefs have a lot of needs – obviously – but Joeckel is considered perhaps the safest pick in this draft. Others to consider: Shariff Floyd, DT, Florida; Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan
2. Jacksonville, Eric Fisher, OT, Central Michigan – The Jags started their frachise with Tony Boselli as their first pick. Fisher gives them another franchise tackle. Others to consider: Shariff Floyd, DT, Florida; Dion Jordan, DE, Oregon
3. Oakland, Shariff Floyd, DT, Florida – After getting rid of Richard Seymour and Tommy Kelly, this is an obvious need pick for the Raiders. Others to consider: Fisher, Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia
4. Philadelphia, Geno Smith, QB, West Virginia - New head coach Chip Kelly wants to run the spread. Smith gives him a top-rated QB to build with while Michael Vick starts one more season. Others to consider: Fisher; Milliner; Ziggy Ansah, DE, BYU
5. Detroit, Dion Jordan, DE, Oregon – The Lions have been building their defense around pass rushers. Others to consider: Milliner, Ansah
6. Cleveland, Dee Milliner, CB, Alabama – The Browns get a second top-notch corner to pair with Joe Hayden. Others to consider: Ansah
7. Arizona, Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma – The Cardinals have been awful protecting the quarterback the past two seasons. Others to consider: Ansah, Chance Warmack, G, Alabama
8. Buffalo, Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia – It’s too early for another quarterback here. Two WVU players in the top 10? That’s how good the offense was in 2012. About that defense. … Others to consider: Ansah
9. N.Y. Jets, Star Lotulelei, DT, Utah – The Jets lost Sione Pouha this offseason and replaced him with a 33-year-old Antonio Garay. Rex Ryan also would like to beef up the pass rush, but Lotulelei could be too good to pass up. Others to consider: Ansah; Barkevious Mingo, OLB, LSU
10. Tennessee, Chance Warmack, G, Alabama – Ansah’s fall continues as teams pass on potential for immediate needs. Warmack will help clear a path for Chris Johnson. Others to consider: Ansah; Jonathan Cooper, G, North Carolina
11. San Diego, Jonathan Cooper, G, North Carolina – The Chargers need offensive line help, though Ansah could make sense here, too. Others to consider: Ansah; Mingo; Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia
12. Miami, Ziggy Ansah, DE/OLB, BYU – The Dolphins could trade up to get ahead of Arizona and grab Johnson. If not, Ansah would be too good to pass up in this scenario. Others to consider: Mingo; Jones; D.J. Fluker, OT, Alabama
13. N.Y. Jets, Barkevious Mingo, OLB, LSU – Rex Ryan reportedly loves Mingo’s athleticism. This is the pick they received for Darrelle Revis, so a corner would make sense as well. Others to consider: Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State; Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State
14. Carolina, Sheldon Richardson, DT, Florida State – Missouri. The Panthers need corner help but are said to love Richardson as well. Others to consider: Kenny Vaccaro, S, Texas; Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State; Desmond Trufant, CB, Washington
15. New Orleans, Jarvis Jones, OLB, Georgia – The Saints are moving to a 3-4 and need outside linebackers. Others to consider: Fluker; Alex Ogletree, LB, Georgia
16. St. Louis, D.J. Fluker, OT/G, Alabama – The Rams covet Austin, but he’s long gone. They have another first-round pick to address safety or wide receiver and take the best remaining offensive lineman instead. Others to consider: Vaccaro; Cordarrelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee
17. Pittsburgh, Xavier Rhodes, CB, Florida State – With Jones gone, the Steelers will wait on an OLB prospect. Cordarrelle Patterson is too raw, and this draft is deep in receivers. Kenny Vaccarro would be a consideration, but Rhodes can play corner or safety. Others to consider: Vacarro; Patterson; Arthur Brown, LB, Kansas State; DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Clemson
18. Dallas, Kenny Vacarro, S, Texas – With the top offensive linemen gone, the Cowboys grab the top safety on the board. Others to consider: Menelik Watson, OT, Florida State; Matt Elam, S, Florida
19. N.Y. Giants, Bjoern Werner, DE, Florida State – Werner is the best pass rusher still available and the Giants love pass rushers. Others to consider: Watson; Trufant
20. Chicago, Alec Ogletree, LB, Georgia – After losing Brian Urlacher and Nick Roach, the Bears need linebacker help. An offensive lineman would work as well. Others to consider: Watson
21. Cincinnati, Matt Elam, S, Florida – The Bengals need safety help badly, though another receiver also would fill a need. Others to consider: Watson; Patterson
22. St. Louis, Cordarelle Patterson, WR, Tennessee – Patterson is raw, but has outstanding speed. The Rams have to give Sam Bradford somebody to get the ball to at some point. Others to consider: Elam; Justin Hunter, WR, Tennessee; DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Clemson
23. Minnesota, Desmond Trufant, CB, Washington – The Vikings could go for a receiver here, but corner is a pressing need as well. Others to consider: Hopkins; Sylvester Williams, DT, North Carolina
24. Indianapolis, Datone Jones, DE, UCLA – The offense is good, but the defense needs some pass rush help. Others to consider: Watson; Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise State
25. Minnesota, Sylvester Williams, DT, North Carolina – Once a strong point, the Vikings’ run defense hasn’t been as good recently. Others to consider: Hopkins; Hunter; Jonathan Hankins, DT, Ohio State
26. Green Bay, Tyler Eifert, TE, Notre Dame – Yes, Jermichael Finley is back for one more season, but the Packers need a long-term answer at TE. Eifert could be that option. Others to consider: Hokpins, Hunter; Alex Okafor, LB/DE Texas
27. Houston, DeAndre Hokpins, WR, Clemson – The Texans have been searching for a second receiving option to Andre Johnson for years. They get a good one in Hokpins. Others to consider: Hunter; Robert Woods, WR, USC
28. Denver, Jonathan Hankins, DT, Ohio State – The Broncos need to bolster the middle of their defense. Others to consider: Tank Carradine, DE, Florida State; Kevin Minter, ILB, LSU
29. New England, Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise State – Taylor didn’t get the pre-draft talk like some of the other corners, but he’s a feisty playmaker. Others to consider: Carradine; Margus Hunt, DE, SMU
30. Atlanta, Tank Carradine, DE, Florida State – Carradine tore his ACL in November, but is healing well. He would have been a top 15 pick if completely healthy. Others to consider: Hunt; Okafor
31. San Francisco, Jonathan Cyprien, S, Florida International – The 49ers don’t have a lot of needs, but safety is one of them. Others to consider: Brown; Jesse Williams, DT, Alabama
32. Baltimore, Justin Hunter, WR, Tennessee – Everyone knows how the Ravens like to throw deep. Baltimore passes on an obvious need at ILB and goes for another home run threat on offense. Others to consider: Brown, Ogletree, Minter
Monday, April 22, 2013
Tomlin-Colbert PC news
There wasn't a ton of news to come out of the Mike Tomlin-Kevin Colbert press conference today, which is usually the case for a team that holds its cards close to its chest.
But we do know that the Steelers won't be looking to move up in the draft and, in fact, could be very open to moving down in the first round to acquire more picks.
Whether they have a potential trade partner or now will largely depend on who falls.
If, for example, there is an early run on offensive linemen as expected, some team could look to move up to get a shot at Chance Warmack, Jonathan Cooper or even D.J. Fluker.
With this draft and its depth, however, it's more likely the Steelers will be picking at 17. But I do look for them to move around some in rounds 2 through 7.
I now expect that Jarvis Jones will be gone when the Steelers pick. And with the depth at wide receiver, I look for the Steelers to select Kenny Vacarro, the safety out of Texas.
Pittsburgh currently has some very young and untested players sitting behind Ryan Clark and Troy Polamalu. And both are a lot closer to the end of their careers than they are the beginning.
If the Steelers take Vacarro in the first, look for them to grab a running back or linebacker in the second, with a trade up possible to get the guy they covet. If a trade up is needed, look for the team to trade back in round three to acquire an extra pick in rounds four or five.
I expect this to be a wild, wide-open draft.
@ I don't expect the Steelers to take a tight end such as Notre Dame's Tyler Eifert. That would be a wasted pick, in my opinion, since the team expects to get Heath Miller back at some point and Pittsburgh re-signed both Matt Spaeth and David Johnson.
@ Mike Tomlin said that Mike Adams and Marcus Gilbert will compete for the left tackle position. The other will be the right tackle.
@ Getting a running back in this draft is critical, but I don't think the Steelers have closed the door on signing Ahmad Bradshaw. They have a little wiggle room - very little - so it would take a restructure or extension of somebody to give them the room needed to get it done before June 1.
But we do know that the Steelers won't be looking to move up in the draft and, in fact, could be very open to moving down in the first round to acquire more picks.
Whether they have a potential trade partner or now will largely depend on who falls.
If, for example, there is an early run on offensive linemen as expected, some team could look to move up to get a shot at Chance Warmack, Jonathan Cooper or even D.J. Fluker.
With this draft and its depth, however, it's more likely the Steelers will be picking at 17. But I do look for them to move around some in rounds 2 through 7.
I now expect that Jarvis Jones will be gone when the Steelers pick. And with the depth at wide receiver, I look for the Steelers to select Kenny Vacarro, the safety out of Texas.
Pittsburgh currently has some very young and untested players sitting behind Ryan Clark and Troy Polamalu. And both are a lot closer to the end of their careers than they are the beginning.
If the Steelers take Vacarro in the first, look for them to grab a running back or linebacker in the second, with a trade up possible to get the guy they covet. If a trade up is needed, look for the team to trade back in round three to acquire an extra pick in rounds four or five.
I expect this to be a wild, wide-open draft.
@ I don't expect the Steelers to take a tight end such as Notre Dame's Tyler Eifert. That would be a wasted pick, in my opinion, since the team expects to get Heath Miller back at some point and Pittsburgh re-signed both Matt Spaeth and David Johnson.
@ Mike Tomlin said that Mike Adams and Marcus Gilbert will compete for the left tackle position. The other will be the right tackle.
@ Getting a running back in this draft is critical, but I don't think the Steelers have closed the door on signing Ahmad Bradshaw. They have a little wiggle room - very little - so it would take a restructure or extension of somebody to give them the room needed to get it done before June 1.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Here's why Patterson scares me
http://www.jsonline.com/sports/tennessees-patterson-with-plenty-of-talent-and-question-marks-rt9i5uj-203524771.html
If you don't read Bob McGinn's pre-draft stuff, you should. McGinn did a breakdown today on Cordarrelle Patterson and it brought out many of the issues that I have with the speedy wide receiver out of Tennessee.
He's a big-time boom-bust prospect and, at least in my opinion, that's not the kind of player the Steelers need to come out of this draft with.
If another team takes Patterson in the first round and he becomes a star, more power to them. But the Steelers can't afford to swing and miss this year - at least in my opinion.
If you don't read Bob McGinn's pre-draft stuff, you should. McGinn did a breakdown today on Cordarrelle Patterson and it brought out many of the issues that I have with the speedy wide receiver out of Tennessee.
He's a big-time boom-bust prospect and, at least in my opinion, that's not the kind of player the Steelers need to come out of this draft with.
If another team takes Patterson in the first round and he becomes a star, more power to them. But the Steelers can't afford to swing and miss this year - at least in my opinion.
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
McLendon visits Packers, signs with Steelers
Restricted free agent nose tackle Steve McLendon visited the Packers on Wednesday, a move that sent shock waves through Pittsburgh's front office, so much so that the Steelers signed him to a three-year contract extension on Thursday.
The Steelers tendered McLendon, who is expected to move into the starting lineup this season, at $1.3 million and had the right to match any offer he might receive as a free agent. But they would have received no compensation if he signed elsewhere and they decline to match.
Instead, the Steelers signed him to a three-year, $7.25 million deal, which is a decent price for a 27-year-old nose tackle with little mileage on him.
The Steelers still list McLendon at 280 pounds, but he's actually about 330.
Even so, he's a different style of nose tackle than Casey Hampton, who remains on the free agent market.
McLendon is more of a gap shooter in the mode of Kemo von Oelhoffen, than he is a rock at the point of attack.
Incidentally, Hampton's agent, Ralph Cindrich, told me on Twitter Wednesday that he expects his client to sign with somebody - possibly New England - once training camp begins.
The Steelers tendered McLendon, who is expected to move into the starting lineup this season, at $1.3 million and had the right to match any offer he might receive as a free agent. But they would have received no compensation if he signed elsewhere and they decline to match.
Instead, the Steelers signed him to a three-year, $7.25 million deal, which is a decent price for a 27-year-old nose tackle with little mileage on him.
The Steelers still list McLendon at 280 pounds, but he's actually about 330.
Even so, he's a different style of nose tackle than Casey Hampton, who remains on the free agent market.
McLendon is more of a gap shooter in the mode of Kemo von Oelhoffen, than he is a rock at the point of attack.
Incidentally, Hampton's agent, Ralph Cindrich, told me on Twitter Wednesday that he expects his client to sign with somebody - possibly New England - once training camp begins.
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