✦✦✦ Official 2015 Pittsburgh Steelers Thread &#10 (2 Viewers)

[bucksoh]

On the season, I think Keith Butler and the Steeler defense did an an exceptional job.

A lot to like and a lot to build upon.

Agreed, have a lot to look forward to for the defense.

 

[Franknbeans]

Yeah, the defense progressed nicely this year and will only get better once we draft some decent corners. The silver lining with all of the injuries is that some backups got some significant playing time and they'll be deeper and more seasoned next year.

 

[fred_1_15301]

Disappointing loss because I feel like we had it. Oh well-- I'm a Denver fan for at least one week.

 

[Franknbeans]

I will add that just once I'd like to see what this team could do in the playoffs with all of their significant players healthy. It's a pipe dream, I know.

 

[fred_1_15301]

I will add that just once I'd like to see what this team could do in the playoffs with all of their significant players healthy. It's a pipe dream, I know.

Every team deals with injuries. The Patriots pretty much lost half their team and they're likely going to the Super Bowl. A couple mistakes cost us the game.

 

[pecorino]

Couple quick hits. I thought Haley called a great game. Tomlin continues to make baffling choices. Never even close to the level of firing-worthy, IMO, but cringeworthy on a weekly basis. It's maddening. Coates looked good for a young guy, Bryant needs to work on his concentration but man, what a weapon. Hope he doesn't hit the weed too hard in the off-season. Defense looked good, solid enough to win.

I call this a successful season. Ben is good for one more ring if we get some breaks from the injury Gods. With the progress of our defense, next year could be the one. We need one if not two safeties.

The thing here with Tomlin is these are the same mistakes since he started coaching the Steelers. He has and will never evolve or learn from his mistakes. The only thing they can do is keep surrounding him with more talent cause he will never win unless talent can cover for his blunders. Dates back to his SB win also.

Oh, I know it. I am in the.camp that chalks it up to arrogance. You're right. The talent level needs to be off the charts to make up for average coaching. It's a real shame.

 

[fred_1_15301]

Couple quick hits. I thought Haley called a great game. Tomlin continues to make baffling choices. Never even close to the level of firing-worthy, IMO, but cringeworthy on a weekly basis. It's maddening. Coates looked good for a young guy, Bryant needs to work on his concentration but man, what a weapon. Hope he doesn't hit the weed too hard in the off-season. Defense looked good, solid enough to win.

I call this a successful season. Ben is good for one more ring if we get some breaks from the injury Gods. With the progress of our defense, next year could be the one. We need one if not two safeties.

The thing here with Tomlin is these are the same mistakes since he started coaching the Steelers. He has and will never evolve or learn from his mistakes. The only thing they can do is keep surrounding him with more talent cause he will never win unless talent can cover for his blunders. Dates back to his SB win also.

Oh, I know it. I am in the.camp that chalks it up to arrogance. You're right. The talent level needs to be off the charts to make up for average coaching. It's a real shame.

Huh? They were without their all pro WR and the top 2 RBs and they easily could have won the game. I've been critical of Tomlin but the team just needed to make a few plays. Denver made a few more than Pittsburgh did. It was a good game between 2 pretty evenly matched teams. None of them were going to beat N.E anyways IMO.

 

[Godsbrother]

Disappointing loss. It would have been nice to see how the game would have played out without the fumble because we were driving.

Overall I think the Steelers coaching staff did a remarkable job. Winning 11 games with all of those injuries against the toughest schedule was pretty impressive.

Next week I am a Broncos fan but I don't think they have a prayer against the Patriots.

 

[3C's]

Never will get the Tomlin hate. Never.

And regarding the secondary, remember that we have a 2nd round pick who didn't play a down. If he pans out and they take another one in the first who can shine that backfield could be fixed pretty quickly.

 

[Copeman]

Agreed with most of what has been said on this page regarding the game. However, the game would have been worse had Denver not dropped so many passes. I can't recall a team dropping so many. On the surface I thought the defense played well, but if the Denver receivers caught those balls, we would be singing a much different tune about the Steeler defense today. I'm still not sold on it.

 

[Godsbrother]

Agreed with most of what has been said on this page regarding the game. However, the game would have been worse had Denver not dropped so many passes. I can't recall a team dropping so many. On the surface I thought the defense played well, but if the Denver receivers caught those balls, we would be singing a much different tune about the Steeler defense today. I'm still not sold on it.

True but every game has drops -- the Steelers had some bad drops as well, one in the endzone. They were making a big deal out of the Broncos drops as excuses for Peyton.

 

[Bojang0301]

Disappointed with what this team could have been but excited about what it could become. They need to be there soon because Ben doesn't have a long time left, especially since he had a lot rougher front half of his career compared to other QB's.

CB needs to be addressed but there was some acceptable play from Crockett and Gay toward the end. I actually believe it may be important to get another high ceiling RB seeing as Bell has gotten injured all 3 seasons of his career. When he's healthy he's the best but I question his durability. I hope Harrison comes back for one more, I can understand why he wouldn't thoug has. Hopefully they keep the depth guys who's contracts are coming up and please don't draft a LB or WR in the first 4 rounds.

 

[3C's]

Tough loss but just not as bothered by this loss as with most years. I said they were playing with house money and for most of the game they were still winning without a top 3 WR and a top 5 running back in the starting lineup. Yeah Toussaint fumble cost us the game but blaming a 4th stringer in the playoffs just doesn't seem fair. Defense played really strong and the wide receivers more than set up.

My only strong negative on the game was that I thought Tomlin should have tried more field goals instead of punting. I think we could have trusted Boswell on some of those 50+ field goals in Denver of all places

Frankly the only thing that pisses me off is having to deal with the media jerking off to Brady vs Manning part 230.

Perfect timing on this article regarding the 4th down decisions and field goals. http://www.steelersdepot.com/2016/01/column-tomlin-reasonable-to-decide-against-both-field-goal-opportunities/

Would be nice if Manning has to sit out and Osweiller leads the Broncos to a win.

 

[Blick]

There's nobody I'd rather have coaching this team than Tomlin.

Agreed. I would like them to give someone authority to at least question some of the game management move he makes. For example, the two that come to mind yesterday were the punt where they netted 19 yards and the timeout on the wrong side of the two minute warning. Both were head scratchers for me.

 

[belljr]

What did Tomlin do wrong this game?

 

[[icon]]

Just dropping in to give props. You guys were dealt a tough blow with major injuries, and still went into Denver in a game that nobody gave you a chance in... and gave them everything they could handle.

Odds-on favorites in the AFC next year, IMO.

 

[3C's]

There's nobody I'd rather have coaching this team than Tomlin.

Agreed. I would like them to give someone authority to at least question some of the game management move he makes. For example, the two that come to mind yesterday were the punt where they netted 19 yards and the timeout on the wrong side of the two minute warning. Both were head scratchers for me.

The 19 yard punt is covered in the link I posted above. Berry had been #1 in the NFL in pinning teams inside the 20. Only not this time. Not sure how you can have a timeout on the wrong side of the 2 minute warning.

The decision to go for the field goal first when they could have taken a shot or 2 deep (and wasted time) and leave it in the hands of the onside kick was a great decision, BTW.

 

[Godsbrother]

Teh Steelers are picking 25th, ahead of the other 10-6 playoff teams: Seahawks (26) and Packers (27).

The Browns are picking at #2, the Ravens are at #6 and the Bengals pick 24th, one ahead of the Steelers.

 

[Blick]

There's nobody I'd rather have coaching this team than Tomlin.

Agreed. I would like them to give someone authority to at least question some of the game management move he makes. For example, the two that come to mind yesterday were the punt where they netted 19 yards and the timeout on the wrong side of the two minute warning. Both were head scratchers for me.

The 19 yard punt is covered in the link I posted above. Berry had been #1 in the NFL in pinning teams inside the 20. Only not this time. Not sure how you can have a timeout on the wrong side of the 2 minute warning.

The decision to go for the field goal first when they could have taken a shot or 2 deep (and wasted time) and leave it in the hands of the onside kick was a great decision, BTW.

I can understand the decision for the punt, its a judgment call one way or the other.

I can't understand taking the timeout with 2:22 left on the clock. They should have gotten to the line and ran a play before the 2 minute warning. Instead, they took the timeout, ran a play, and the clock went to 2 minutes. Nothing gained. Here's the play sequence.

1. 8-B.McManus kicks 65 yards from DEN 35 to end zone, Touchback.
2. 1-10-PIT 20 (3:00) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass deep left to 10-M.Bryant to PIT 38 for 18 yards (26-D.Stewart).
3. 1-10-PIT 38 (2:28) (No Huddle, Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass short right to 10-M.Bryant to PIT 41 for 3 yards (26-D.Stewart).
4. Timeout #1 by PIT at 02:22.
5. 2-7-PIT 41 (2:22) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass short middle to 33-F.Toussaint to PIT 43 for 2 yards (43-T.Ward).
6. Two-Minute Warning
7. 3-5-PIT 43 (2:00) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass incomplete short middle to 10-M.Bryant.
8. 4-5-PIT 43 (1:56) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger sacked at PIT 30 for -13 yards (94-D.Ware).

 

[3C's]

I replayed this a couple of times last night. Still no idea what it is, but pretty damn certain it wasn't one of the kids. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Ip5MuVD4HE

 

[menobrown]

My quick thoughts on game and looking ahead.

1. I'm crushed by the loss. No feelings here of playing with house money and just glad to get this far. I'm not angry or searching for blame, just crushed because I thought they outplayed Denver yesterday and we've gone from getting Brown back and playing NE to go to the SB to Peyton vs Brady hype crap. It's depressing.

2. If Tomlin left the Steeelers I'd be crushed and some NFL team would fire their current NFL head coach and create an opening ASAP.

3. The defense played hard, hit hard, made few mistakes, just a nice job by players and coaches. Great news for the team is this draft is loaded with what they need, strong defensive draft.

4. Offensively their losses to key personnel were monumental so with any kind of health there is nothing to worry about on this offense. It's all systems go. They have one "need" and that's to address the TE position. That being said I do have some gripes about yesterday and last few weeks in general.

First one is I thought Ben over the last few weeks regressed into pre-Haley era Ben by holding onto the ball to long. He's got to get rid of the ball. He put them in way to many long distance downs, took them out of FG range at least once and even taking that sack on their second to last possession put Denver in FG range and forced Pittsburgh to need to score twice. He takes to many sacks and it's drive killers. He's got to get rid of the ball faster to sustain drives better and it also would help keep him healthy. It's always been the single biggest weakness of his game and from this man's perspective he got worse at it these last few weeks.

The thing I believe they failed to do yesterday was involve Coates more. They needed someone other than Bryant to make a big play. Not sure what Coates snap count was but it seemed limited. He got 4 passes thrown his way. 2 were big gainers, one drew a PI, and the other one he appeared to not cut his route off correctly(which is probably why he was not playing full complement of snaps). I believe it was a big mistake not getting him out there more often and living with a mistake or two because they needed someone who could make chunk plays.

 

[3C's]

There's nobody I'd rather have coaching this team than Tomlin.

Agreed. I would like them to give someone authority to at least question some of the game management move he makes. For example, the two that come to mind yesterday were the punt where they netted 19 yards and the timeout on the wrong side of the two minute warning. Both were head scratchers for me.

The 19 yard punt is covered in the link I posted above. Berry had been #1 in the NFL in pinning teams inside the 20. Only not this time. Not sure how you can have a timeout on the wrong side of the 2 minute warning.

The decision to go for the field goal first when they could have taken a shot or 2 deep (and wasted time) and leave it in the hands of the onside kick was a great decision, BTW.

I can understand the decision for the punt, its a judgment call one way or the other.

I can't understand taking the timeout with 2:22 left on the clock. They should have gotten to the line and ran a play before the 2 minute warning. Instead, they took the timeout, ran a play, and the clock went to 2 minutes. Nothing gained. Here's the play sequence.

1. 8-B.McManus kicks 65 yards from DEN 35 to end zone, Touchback.
2. 1-10-PIT 20 (3:00) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass deep left to 10-M.Bryant to PIT 38 for 18 yards (26-D.Stewart).
3. 1-10-PIT 38 (2:28) (No Huddle, Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass short right to 10-M.Bryant to PIT 41 for 3 yards (26-D.Stewart).
4. Timeout #1 by PIT at 02:22.
5. 2-7-PIT 41 (2:22) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass short middle to 33-F.Toussaint to PIT 43 for 2 yards (43-T.Ward).
6. Two-Minute Warning
7. 3-5-PIT 43 (2:00) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass incomplete short middle to 10-M.Bryant.
8. 4-5-PIT 43 (1:56) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger sacked at PIT 30 for -13 yards (94-D.Ware).

As Jim Nantz said in booth, they're trying to get as many plays in as possible before the 2 minute warning. Not the coaches fault that the plays before and after the timeout netted short gains to the middle of the field and the clock ran. That's what playing the best defense in the NFL does to you sometimes. Obviously their plan at that point was to march down the field, use up the time, score a td and go to OT. Didn't quite work out that way.

 

[Blick]

There's nobody I'd rather have coaching this team than Tomlin.

Agreed. I would like them to give someone authority to at least question some of the game management move he makes. For example, the two that come to mind yesterday were the punt where they netted 19 yards and the timeout on the wrong side of the two minute warning. Both were head scratchers for me.

The 19 yard punt is covered in the link I posted above. Berry had been #1 in the NFL in pinning teams inside the 20. Only not this time. Not sure how you can have a timeout on the wrong side of the 2 minute warning.

The decision to go for the field goal first when they could have taken a shot or 2 deep (and wasted time) and leave it in the hands of the onside kick was a great decision, BTW.

I can understand the decision for the punt, its a judgment call one way or the other.

I can't understand taking the timeout with 2:22 left on the clock. They should have gotten to the line and ran a play before the 2 minute warning. Instead, they took the timeout, ran a play, and the clock went to 2 minutes. Nothing gained. Here's the play sequence.

1. 8-B.McManus kicks 65 yards from DEN 35 to end zone, Touchback.
2. 1-10-PIT 20 (3:00) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass deep left to 10-M.Bryant to PIT 38 for 18 yards (26-D.Stewart).
3. 1-10-PIT 38 (2:28) (No Huddle, Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass short right to 10-M.Bryant to PIT 41 for 3 yards (26-D.Stewart).
4. Timeout #1 by PIT at 02:22.
5. 2-7-PIT 41 (2:22) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass short middle to 33-F.Toussaint to PIT 43 for 2 yards (43-T.Ward).
6. Two-Minute Warning
7. 3-5-PIT 43 (2:00) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass incomplete short middle to 10-M.Bryant.
8. 4-5-PIT 43 (1:56) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger sacked at PIT 30 for -13 yards (94-D.Ware).

As Jim Nantz said in booth, they're trying to get as many plays in as possible before the 2 minute warning. Not the coaches fault that the plays before and after the timeout netted short gains to the middle of the field and the clock ran. That's what playing the best defense in the NFL does to you sometimes. Obviously their plan at that point was to march down the field, use up the time, score a td and go to OT. Didn't quite work out that way.

But they didn't. They wasted a timeout. It didn't change the game at all, but can be put in the Tomlin mismanaged the clock pile.

 

[menobrown]

There's nobody I'd rather have coaching this team than Tomlin.

Agreed. I would like them to give someone authority to at least question some of the game management move he makes. For example, the two that come to mind yesterday were the punt where they netted 19 yards and the timeout on the wrong side of the two minute warning. Both were head scratchers for me.

The 19 yard punt is covered in the link I posted above. Berry had been #1 in the NFL in pinning teams inside the 20. Only not this time. Not sure how you can have a timeout on the wrong side of the 2 minute warning.

The decision to go for the field goal first when they could have taken a shot or 2 deep (and wasted time) and leave it in the hands of the onside kick was a great decision, BTW.

I can understand the decision for the punt, its a judgment call one way or the other.

I can't understand taking the timeout with 2:22 left on the clock. They should have gotten to the line and ran a play before the 2 minute warning. Instead, they took the timeout, ran a play, and the clock went to 2 minutes. Nothing gained. Here's the play sequence.

1. 8-B.McManus kicks 65 yards from DEN 35 to end zone, Touchback.
2. 1-10-PIT 20 (3:00) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass deep left to 10-M.Bryant to PIT 38 for 18 yards (26-D.Stewart).
3. 1-10-PIT 38 (2:28) (No Huddle, Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass short right to 10-M.Bryant to PIT 41 for 3 yards (26-D.Stewart).
4. Timeout #1 by PIT at 02:22.
5. 2-7-PIT 41 (2:22) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass short middle to 33-F.Toussaint to PIT 43 for 2 yards (43-T.Ward).
6. Two-Minute Warning
7. 3-5-PIT 43 (2:00) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger pass incomplete short middle to 10-M.Bryant.
8. 4-5-PIT 43 (1:56) (Shotgun) 7-B.Roethlisberger sacked at PIT 30 for -13 yards (94-D.Ware).

As Jim Nantz said in booth, they're trying to get as many plays in as possible before the 2 minute warning. Not the coaches fault that the plays before and after the timeout netted short gains to the middle of the field and the clock ran. That's what playing the best defense in the NFL does to you sometimes. Obviously their plan at that point was to march down the field, use up the time, score a td and go to OT. Didn't quite work out that way.

But they didn't. They wasted a timeout. It didn't change the game at all, but can be put in the Tomlin mismanaged the clock pile.

Well it's easy to say something did not work after it did not work but they valued converting that third and 5 more than losing some time so made sense to call a TO and not rush the down.

 

[Franknbeans]

Lolley's take

 

[Idiot Boxer]

Great season under the circumstances. I'm optimistic for this team next year. Hopefully the Panthers or Cards trounce the Pats in the SB. I felt the NFC was stronger all year. I hope now that it comes to fruition.

I was at a bar watching the game, so I couldn't hear. On the "non-sack" of Manning, I realize he was not touched down. Was there ever any discussion of him 'sliding' or 'giving himself up'?

I can't believe that sliding can be open for interpretation. In my opinion, once the QB 'slides' the players stop playing. This is to prevent injuries to the QB. If it is now something that is subject to players interpretations, this may lead to hits on the QB to make sure the QB doesn't get back up and chuck it downfield to Emmanuel Sanders.

 

[belljr]

Great season under the circumstances. I'm optimistic for this team next year. Hopefully the Panthers or Cards trounce the Pats in the SB. I felt the NFC was stronger all year. I hope now that it comes to fruition.

I was at a bar watching the game, so I couldn't hear. On the "non-sack" of Manning, I realize he was not touched down. Was there ever any discussion of him 'sliding' or 'giving himself up'?

I can't believe that sliding can be open for interpretation. In my opinion, once the QB 'slides' the players stop playing. This is to prevent injuries to the QB. If it is now something that is subject to players interpretations, this may lead to hits on the QB to make sure the QB doesn't get back up and chuck it downfield to Emmanuel Sanders.

Yes tons if talk. Tomlin wanted to challenge and it's not review able also

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

This is the least pissed I've been after a post season exit. Good year, given the #### hand we were dealt. No reason to be sad about it.

And, I was #####ing last night that Peyton slid feet first. The NFl can't have this both ways -- either QBs are the golden kids and they get cupcake rules built around them, or they are open to getting mother####ing shellacked when they pull the crap that Manning did last night.

Not mad at Manning, and it didn't affect the outcome of the game. But it was aggravating to watch.

 

[monessen]

Disappointed with what this team could have been but excited about what it could become. They need to be there soon because Ben doesn't have a long time left, especially since he had a lot rougher front half of his career compared to other QB's.

CB needs to be addressed but there was some acceptable play from Crockett and Gay toward the end. I actually believe it may be important to get another high ceiling RB seeing as Bell has gotten injured all 3 seasons of his career. When he's healthy he's the best but I question his durability. I hope Harrison comes back for one more, I can understand why he wouldn't thoug has. Hopefully they keep the depth guys who's contracts are coming up and please don't draft a LB or WR in the first 4 rounds.

Darn right. You nailed it from the first sentence to the last.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Disappointed with what this team could have been but excited about what it could become. They need to be there soon because Ben doesn't have a long time left, especially since he had a lot rougher front half of his career compared to other QB's.

CB needs to be addressed but there was some acceptable play from Crockett and Gay toward the end. I actually believe it may be important to get another high ceiling RB seeing as Bell has gotten injured all 3 seasons of his career. When he's healthy he's the best but I question his durability. I hope Harrison comes back for one more, I can understand why he wouldn't thoug has. Hopefully they keep the depth guys who's contracts are coming up and please don't draft a LB or WR in the first 4 rounds.

Darn right. You nailed it from the first sentence to the last.

Except that I do see OLB as a far greater need than RB. Moats and Harrison may or may not be back and they need to upgrade the pass rush. Bell and Williams will still be in the fold and RBs can be found later in the draft. I wouldn't be upset if they used all their first four picks on secondary and pass rushers. OL depth and TE are needs as well, especially if Beachum doesn't return.

 

[Bojang0301]

I thought Moats was on a 2-year deal? I bet Harrison comes back for one more. This team is close and he stands a good chance of claiming another title. With Jones and Dupree coming around I would still be disappointed with another OLB in the top 100 unless, like Shazier, he is something super special athletically. It's also nice to be going into the offseason and not immediately be talking about salary cap issues.

 

[moondog]

I thought Moats was on a 2-year deal? I bet Harrison comes back for one more. This team is close and he stands a good chance of claiming another title. With Jones and Dupree coming around I would still be disappointed with another OLB in the top 100 unless, like Shazier, he is something super special athletically. It's also nice to be going into the offseason and not immediately be talking about salary cap issues.

Moats signed a three year deal last year - under contract for two more seasons.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I thought Moats was on a 2-year deal? I bet Harrison comes back for one more. This team is close and he stands a good chance of claiming another title. With Jones and Dupree coming around I would still be disappointed with another OLB in the top 100 unless, like Shazier, he is something super special athletically. It's also nice to be going into the offseason and not immediately be talking about salary cap issues.

Moats signed a three year deal last year - under contract for two more seasons.

Yes, but they save 2.5 million next season alone by cutting him and I believe $5.8M over two years. Guy has had 8 sacks in 32 career games (20 starts) - I don't know that they want to be paying almost $1 million per sack. Not saying the guy totally sucks, but he's the 12th highest paid player on the team. If they cut him, Suisham, and Cortez Allen, they open up $10 million in cap room without losing a whole lot from this past season. That could enable them to extend guys like Bell, DeCastro, etc without having to restructure most or all of their big contracts again.

 

[steelers1080]

So, the upcoming draft. All of the mock drafts I have seen have us taking 1 of 2 players:

Hunter Henry, ARK TE

Kendall Fuller, VTech CB

I'd be perfectly ok with either. Fuller is more talented than his 3 NFL brothers and Henry is by far the best TE coming out this year.

Another interesting pick would be Ragland out of Alabama. We don't have a need at ILB right now, but if Vince Williams (after 2016) and Spence (Current UFA) are gone, Timmons is a FA after this coming season. Have a star ILB learn behind him for a year then have Ragland and Shazier as an interior combo for 7+ years. Would be potentially glorious. Also, who would be shocked if we took a linebacker in the first round...

I hope we resign Foster, Gay, and Beachum. That way drafting an O-lineman wouldn't be a top priority and we could use our 5 picks for CB, S, TE, OLB, and ILB.

I think we sign a cheap WR, backup O-lineman, and some D-linemen in FA. We might resign Mclendon, but I'd be really happy if we signed Pot Roast away from the Skins. He is a run stuffing machine.

 

[3C's]

0 chance Moats is not on the team next year. (IMHO of course )

Would be ecstatic if they got Fuller but I have a feeling he'll go much earlier than the Steelers pick if he doesn't fall on is face in the next month or so.

 

[steelers1080]

I thought Moats was on a 2-year deal? I bet Harrison comes back for one more. This team is close and he stands a good chance of claiming another title. With Jones and Dupree coming around I would still be disappointed with another OLB in the top 100 unless, like Shazier, he is something super special athletically. It's also nice to be going into the offseason and not immediately be talking about salary cap issues.

Moats signed a three year deal last year - under contract for two more seasons.

Yes, but they save 2.5 million next season alone by cutting him and I believe $5.8M over two years. Guy has had 8 sacks in 32 career games (20 starts) - I don't know that they want to be paying almost $1 million per sack. Not saying the guy totally sucks, but he's the 12th highest paid player on the team. If they cut him, Suisham, and Cortez Allen, they open up $10 million in cap room without losing a whole lot from this past season. That could enable them to extend guys like Bell, DeCastro, etc without having to restructure most or all of their big contracts again.

I love the idea, but if they cut him they'll just have to sign someone else, unless they think Chickillo is the real deal. Harrison could leave and usually they have 4-5 OLBs on the team. Cutting Moats would leave them with 2 (and one who mostly plays ST) and one of those 2 is a FA after next year.

Definitely should cut Suisham and Cortez though, and with the cap increase it might not be too difficult to sign our own FAs.

God I hope they don't resign Antwon Blake.

 

[steelers1080]

0 chance Moats is not on the team next year. (IMHO of course )

Would be ecstatic if they got Fuller but I have a feeling he'll go much earlier than the Steelers pick if he doesn't fall on is face in the next month or so.

I think the only reason he could fall is 3 QBs, 3 OTs, lots of OLBs, DEs, and DTs are projected to go higher and didn't miss most of this year with injuries.

There are 3-4 CBs being mocked higher than him right now, but that said... what are the chances the Steelers go CB in the first?

I'd bet $50 they pick a linebacker, TE, or defensive lineman in the first round.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I thought Moats was on a 2-year deal? I bet Harrison comes back for one more. This team is close and he stands a good chance of claiming another title. With Jones and Dupree coming around I would still be disappointed with another OLB in the top 100 unless, like Shazier, he is something super special athletically. It's also nice to be going into the offseason and not immediately be talking about salary cap issues.

Moats signed a three year deal last year - under contract for two more seasons.

Yes, but they save 2.5 million next season alone by cutting him and I believe $5.8M over two years. Guy has had 8 sacks in 32 career games (20 starts) - I don't know that they want to be paying almost $1 million per sack. Not saying the guy totally sucks, but he's the 12th highest paid player on the team. If they cut him, Suisham, and Cortez Allen, they open up $10 million in cap room without losing a whole lot from this past season. That could enable them to extend guys like Bell, DeCastro, etc without having to restructure most or all of their big contracts again.

I love the idea, but if they cut him they'll just have to sign someone else, unless they think Chickillo is the real deal. Harrison could leave and usually they have 4-5 OLBs on the team. Cutting Moats would leave them with 2 (and one who mostly plays ST) and one of those 2 is a FA after next year.

Definitely should cut Suisham and Cortez though, and with the cap increase it might not be too difficult to sign our own FAs.

God I hope they don't resign Antwon Blake.

Or draft someone. Which brings me around full circle to the point of this discussion, which is that an OLB in the early rounds is 100% in play.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

0 chance Moats is not on the team next year. (IMHO of course )

Would be ecstatic if they got Fuller but I have a feeling he'll go much earlier than the Steelers pick if he doesn't fall on is face in the next month or so.

I think the only reason he could fall is 3 QBs, 3 OTs, lots of OLBs, DEs, and DTs are projected to go higher and didn't miss most of this year with injuries.

There are 3-4 CBs being mocked higher than him right now, but that said... what are the chances the Steelers go CB in the first?

I'd bet $50 they pick a linebacker, TE, or defensive lineman in the first round.

Safety is also a possibility. A guy like Su'a Cravens out of USC is going to look mighty tantalizing in the late first. He's a positional tweener, which is going to scare some teams off a bit, but his size/speed is terrific and potential is off the charts. Even if he doesn't work out as a centerfielder, he could theoretically play SS, ILB, even OLB with a little weight. He's kind of in that Dupree mold where they could ideally move him around and he could be a superstar in a few years if everything clicks for him.

 

[anakin]

0 chance Moats is not on the team next year. (IMHO of course )

Would be ecstatic if they got Fuller but I have a feeling he'll go much earlier than the Steelers pick if he doesn't fall on is face in the next month or so.

I think the only reason he could fall is 3 QBs, 3 OTs, lots of OLBs, DEs, and DTs are projected to go higher and didn't miss most of this year with injuries.

There are 3-4 CBs being mocked higher than him right now, but that said... what are the chances the Steelers go CB in the first?

I'd bet $50 they pick a linebacker, TE, or defensive lineman in the first round.

Safety is also a possibility. A guy like Su'a Cravens out of USC is going to look mighty tantalizing in the late first. He's a positional tweener, which is going to scare some teams off a bit, but his size/speed is terrific and potential is off the charts. Even if he doesn't work out as a centerfielder, he could theoretically play SS, ILB, even OLB with a little weight. He's kind of in that Dupree mold where they could ideally move him around and he could be a superstar in a few years if everything clicks for him.

Su'a Cravens

 

[Copeman]

What about Golson? I never hear anything about him. He'll basically be a rookie next year.

 

[steelers1080]

What about Golson? I never hear anything about him. He'll basically be a rookie next year.

He'll be the reason we don't resign McCain. Also, he's apparently gotten a clean bill of health with is great. It's like getting an extra pick this year.

 

[steelers1080]

I thought Moats was on a 2-year deal? I bet Harrison comes back for one more. This team is close and he stands a good chance of claiming another title. With Jones and Dupree coming around I would still be disappointed with another OLB in the top 100 unless, like Shazier, he is something super special athletically. It's also nice to be going into the offseason and not immediately be talking about salary cap issues.

Moats signed a three year deal last year - under contract for two more seasons.

Yes, but they save 2.5 million next season alone by cutting him and I believe $5.8M over two years. Guy has had 8 sacks in 32 career games (20 starts) - I don't know that they want to be paying almost $1 million per sack. Not saying the guy totally sucks, but he's the 12th highest paid player on the team. If they cut him, Suisham, and Cortez Allen, they open up $10 million in cap room without losing a whole lot from this past season. That could enable them to extend guys like Bell, DeCastro, etc without having to restructure most or all of their big contracts again.

I love the idea, but if they cut him they'll just have to sign someone else, unless they think Chickillo is the real deal. Harrison could leave and usually they have 4-5 OLBs on the team. Cutting Moats would leave them with 2 (and one who mostly plays ST) and one of those 2 is a FA after next year.

Definitely should cut Suisham and Cortez though, and with the cap increase it might not be too difficult to sign our own FAs.

God I hope they don't resign Antwon Blake.

Or draft someone. Which brings me around full circle to the point of this discussion, which is that an OLB in the early rounds is 100% in play.

I agree that they could draft an OLB in the first, and wouldn't be shocked at all. But throwing an OLB into the starting lineup is unusual for the Steelers (Dupree is the exception, not the rule). So they would probably still keep Moats if they drafted an OLB, especially if Harrison is done.

 

[menobrown]

Never will get the Tomlin hate. Never.

And regarding the secondary, remember that we have a 2nd round pick who didn't play a down. If he pans out and they take another one in the first who can shine that backfield could be fixed pretty quickly.

Re: Tomlin. I've always agreed but after reading the news of today wanted to respond to your post.

That news was Shazier, Decastro, Mitchell, Gilbert, Berry and Speath all need minor surgery. That's 4 key starters including your punter on top of what this team was already missing. Wow! Those players obviously gutted it out for the team but were likely not able to play near 100% but fact so many players held off on surgery is another testament to motivation Tomlin provides. Honestly still not over the Denver loss but this really makes me proud of the team.

To me this only talks to how much we should appreciate Tomlin in general and the great job he did this season which is why I wanted to respond to this post.

Also, I am guilty of completely forgetting about Golston.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I thought Moats was on a 2-year deal? I bet Harrison comes back for one more. This team is close and he stands a good chance of claiming another title. With Jones and Dupree coming around I would still be disappointed with another OLB in the top 100 unless, like Shazier, he is something super special athletically. It's also nice to be going into the offseason and not immediately be talking about salary cap issues.

Moats signed a three year deal last year - under contract for two more seasons.

Yes, but they save 2.5 million next season alone by cutting him and I believe $5.8M over two years. Guy has had 8 sacks in 32 career games (20 starts) - I don't know that they want to be paying almost $1 million per sack. Not saying the guy totally sucks, but he's the 12th highest paid player on the team. If they cut him, Suisham, and Cortez Allen, they open up $10 million in cap room without losing a whole lot from this past season. That could enable them to extend guys like Bell, DeCastro, etc without having to restructure most or all of their big contracts again.

I love the idea, but if they cut him they'll just have to sign someone else, unless they think Chickillo is the real deal. Harrison could leave and usually they have 4-5 OLBs on the team. Cutting Moats would leave them with 2 (and one who mostly plays ST) and one of those 2 is a FA after next year.

Definitely should cut Suisham and Cortez though, and with the cap increase it might not be too difficult to sign our own FAs.

God I hope they don't resign Antwon Blake.

Or draft someone. Which brings me around full circle to the point of this discussion, which is that an OLB in the early rounds is 100% in play.

I agree that they could draft an OLB in the first, and wouldn't be shocked at all. But throwing an OLB into the starting lineup is unusual for the Steelers (Dupree is the exception, not the rule). So they would probably still keep Moats if they drafted an OLB, especially if Harrison is done.

Harrison's decision is going to play into things for sure.

Moats may very well be kept, I really don't know. Allen may be too. It's going to come down to the #s - there are guys they need to re-sign (Foster, Beachum, McClendon) and guys they need to extend (Brown, DeCastro and Bell.) Several players are going to have their contracts restructures (Ben, Brown if he's not re-upped, Timmons.) It'll all come out in the wash, anything at this point is just speculation. I was just pointing out scenarios in which an OLB early isn't a bad thing, nor is it unnecessary.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Never will get the Tomlin hate. Never.

And regarding the secondary, remember that we have a 2nd round pick who didn't play a down. If he pans out and they take another one in the first who can shine that backfield could be fixed pretty quickly.

Re: Tomlin. I've always agreed but after reading the news of today wanted to respond to your post.

That news was Shazier, Decastro, Mitchell, Gilbert, Berry and Speath all need minor surgery. That's 4 key starters including your punter on top of what this team was already missing. Wow! Those players obviously gutted it out for the team but were likely not able to play near 100% but fact so many players held off on surgery is another testament to motivation Tomlin provides. Honestly still not over the Denver loss but this really makes me proud of the team.

To me this only talks to how much we should appreciate Tomlin in general and the great job he did this season which is why I wanted to respond to this post.

Also, I am guilty of completely forgetting about Golston.

The Xs and Os rightly get a lot of attention, but a big part of coaching in the NFL is getting your team to buy into your system/concept and be willing to run through a wall for you. This is where Tomlin is at or near the top of the heap. The clock management and in-game decisions are right in the fan's face, but what goes on behind closed doors is perhaps equally as important. I see polls all the time that list Tomlin near or at the top when NFL players are asked in anonymity which coach other than their own they'd like to play for. Cash is always going to be king when it comes to free agent decisions, but having a coach that other players would want to line up with is no small thing when it comes to getting guys to sign on the dotted line.

 

[3C's]

What about Golson? I never hear anything about him. He'll basically be a rookie next year.

Tomlin: I expect him to perform like a second year player.

Also, he has no confidence in Cortez. I think he basically said "I'm not" when someone asked if he was confident Cortez could be an impact player next year.

 

[steelers1080]

What about Golson? I never hear anything about him. He'll basically be a rookie next year.

Tomlin: I expect him to perform like a second year player.

Also, he has no confidence in Cortez. I think he basically said "I'm not" when someone asked if he was confident Cortez could be an impact player next year.

Really expecting Allen and Suisham to be post June 1st cuts. Would be shocked if they weren't since that can save us $6 million.

If the cap goes to $155 million (anticipated max increase) then we'd have ~$17 million to work with after cuts. Not including if we extend Decastro and push out some of his expected $8 million hit for this year. We could be working with ~$23 million with just a couple moves.

 

[fred_1_15301]

You know what makes me feel good? Ben looked a lot better than Brady against the same dominant Broncos defense. Ben did it without his top weapons. This makes me feel good about the potential for next season.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

You know what makes me feel good? Ben looked a lot better than Brady against the same dominant Broncos defense. Ben did it without his top weapons. This makes me feel good about the potential for next season.

I dont think there is a QB in NFL history that I would rather have then Ben when the defense keeps winning their match ups and getting to the QB play-after-play.