Browns GM: Deal with Lewis imminent (1 Viewer)

[JohnnyU]

Browns GM: Deal with Jamal Lewis imminent

GM Phil Savage said on the radio early Thursday that a deal between the Browns and prospective free agent Jamal Lewis is "imminent."

The contract would be for two years with an option for a third. The deal's worth would probably be a base of $12-13 million and around $5-6 million guaranteed. Savage says Lewis could sign within the next 24 hours. Feb. 21 - 9:11 am et

Source: Cleveland Plain Dealer

 

[Fiddles]

wow

 

[JohnnyU]

Sorry, I see this has already been posted in the 2008 Browns thread.

 

[nxmehta]

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

wow

makes you happy, isnt he on both your survivor squads?

 

[Fiddles]

wow

for some reason I thought this said broncosnot such a wow moment now

 

[Fiddles]

wow

makes you happy, isnt he on both your survivor squads?

yep

 

[TheFanatic]

wow

for some reason I thought this said broncosnot such a wow moment now

Why not? Cleveland has a better offense than the Broncos. Yeah, I said it. Jamal finished 6th overall in non PPR last year in Cleveland. Why wouldn't you want him back? 1550 yards and 11 TD's and your upset he didn't go to Denver...

 

[KellysHeroes]

I need too send some offers out now...

 

[JohnnyU]

I need too send some offers out now...

I just wanted to say that's a great idea to place league openings in your sig. I will do the same thing the next time I have an opening in one of my leagues

 

[sheerterror]

Man, really regretting sending Lewis for Lamont Jordan in 06 now....

 

[Banger]

Good for Jamal and the Browns. It makes perfect sense for both parties.

 

[Bobcat10]

Looks like it's done per CBS.

http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/story/10658599

 

[Andy Herron]

Looks like it's done per CBS.

http://www.sportsline.com/nfl/story/10658599

and ESPN

 

[KellysHeroes]

I need too send some offers out now...

I just wanted to say that's a great idea to place league openings in your sig. I will do the same thing the next time I have an opening in one of my leagues

Thanks... works good. Shows that your an active member.

 

[kupcho1]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

 

[MAC_32]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

Why?

 

[Bobcat10]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

Why?

We did something positive.

 

[HellToupee]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I agree .......seems very pricey

 

[MAC_32]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I agree .......seems very pricey

Compared to what?

 

[scuba]

Seems like a great move to me...as a Browns fan

 

[Bobcat10]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I agree .......seems very pricey

Compared to what?

Have the numbers even been released?

 

[Godsbrother]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

Last year the Steelers lost Joey Porter and then had to use their top two draft picks on LBers to replace Joey. This year its possible they lose Faneca and have to use their top pick on an offensive lineman. Heck their offensive line could use help anyway but if they lose Fanceca then Pittsburgh is using the draft to put out fires cause by loss of free agents. Cleveland let go of a broken down 750 yard RB and picked up a 1,300 yard rusher in free agency and then Baltimore had to use two-third round draft picks to plug the hole left by Jamal Lewis leaving. Point being that Cleveland just prevented a hole so they aren't spinning wheels like Pittsburgh/Baltimore in blowing draft selections filling holes. We've got the salary cap so their is no cap hit and it prevents a hole from forming. So Pittsburgh/Baltimore can crow all they want, as a Browns fan I like the signing. Oh and I distinctly recall many Baltimore fans scoffing at the Browns signing of Jamal and how they FINALLY got a RB. Funny thing is Jamal Lewis OUT-RUSHED Willis McGahee and got stronger as the year progressed.

 

[Bobcat10]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

Last year the Steelers lost Joey Porter and then had to use their top two draft picks on LBers to replace Joey. This year its possible they lose Faneca and have to use their top pick on an offensive lineman. Heck their offensive line could use help anyway but if they lose Fanceca then Pittsburgh is using the draft to put out fires cause by loss of free agents. Cleveland let go of a broken down 750 yard RB and picked up a 1,300 yard rusher in free agency and then Baltimore had to use two-third round draft picks to plug the hole left by Jamal Lewis leaving. Point being that Cleveland just prevented a hole so they aren't spinning wheels like Pittsburgh/Baltimore in blowing draft selections filling holes. We've got the salary cap so their is no cap hit and it prevents a hole from forming. So Pittsburgh/Baltimore can crow all they want, as a Browns fan I like the signing. Oh and I distinctly recall many Baltimore fans scoffing at the Browns signing of Jamal and how they FINALLY got a RB. Funny thing is Jamal Lewis OUT-RUSHED Willis McGahee and got stronger as the year progressed.

Bettis was never any good later on in his career either. How soon they forget.

 

[The Man With No Name]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

In Baltimore it was Jamal and nobody else for opposing defenses to key on.In Cleveland it's Jamal, Braylon Edwards, Kellen Winslow, and all the other wide receivers because having a legit quarterback makes all the options dangerous.

 

[Godsbrother]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

Last year the Steelers lost Joey Porter and then had to use their top two draft picks on LBers to replace Joey. This year its possible they lose Faneca and have to use their top pick on an offensive lineman. Heck their offensive line could use help anyway but if they lose Fanceca then Pittsburgh is using the draft to put out fires cause by loss of free agents. Cleveland let go of a broken down 750 yard RB and picked up a 1,300 yard rusher in free agency and then Baltimore had to use two-third round draft picks to plug the hole left by Jamal Lewis leaving. Point being that Cleveland just prevented a hole so they aren't spinning wheels like Pittsburgh/Baltimore in blowing draft selections filling holes. We've got the salary cap so their is no cap hit and it prevents a hole from forming. So Pittsburgh/Baltimore can crow all they want, as a Browns fan I like the signing. Oh and I distinctly recall many Baltimore fans scoffing at the Browns signing of Jamal and how they FINALLY got a RB. Funny thing is Jamal Lewis OUT-RUSHED Willis McGahee and got stronger as the year progressed.

First off I didn't scoff and in fact said I didn't think it was a bad move. I was just saying that traditionally the Steelers do well against big backs like Lewis. Please point out where I was crowing.As far as Porter and Faneca go the Steelers have always felt it is better to let a player go a year too early than a year to late -- a philosophy that has worked pretty well for them.The Browns had a nice season last year and look like they might finally be turning the corner instead of being perennial losers. I don't blame you for being excited but I think it is silly for Browns fans to start ridiculing the Steelers and Ravens.

 

[HellToupee]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I agree .......seems very pricey

Compared to what?

Have the numbers even been released?

I was basing my opinion on Johnny U's #s in his post

The deal's worth would probably be a base of $12-13 million and around $5-6 million guaranteed

 

[MAC_32]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

You can attribute last season as a fluke, I'll attribute it to this is the Jamal Lewis to expect with a full offseason to prepare. He was recovering from surgery and in jail the two offseasons prior and his numbers suffered. I don't know if he's got three solid years left, but I am confident he has two. I like the deal...and $12.5 mil, $5.5 mil guaranteed over three years is not expensive, look at other backs making that much and you'll see how it's not a bad deal.I am not so sure Pittsburgh's going to be handling the big backs like J Lew anymore. They didn't look the same without Aaron Smith (they have no depth), they're losing Haggans to free agency, and Farrior's not getting any younger. Not saying I am expecting a regression, but no personnel being brought in may mean new expectations from the defense. What's the word on the scheme anyway? I remember last offseason talk about transitioning to the 4-3 to better fit Omar Epps' style, but haven't heard any chatter this year just yet.

 

[darryljr]

Being a huge Browns fan, I'm happy we signed him. He has a few good years left on that tank. However, we need a good backup. I don't trust Wright or Harrison. I'm just happy you can finally justify drafting Brownies for your fantasy roster!

 

[Koya]

Jamal doesn't get nearly the respect he should, imo. Not only was he the ONLY option in a PUTRID offense in Bal for all those years, EVEN SO he busted for 2000+ So he had a couple tough seasons after including personal trouble and dings... but nothing that would suggest he couldn't come back.

While most RBs hit a wall and decline, its important to look at the context. When you look at what he had around him in Baltimore combined with non football related issues it shouldnt surprise that he could ramble for a few more solid to good years... with the chance for a very good season or two even.

As noted, there are a ton of other options in his current offense. The guy has skills - he is big, he is fast for his size (even now although not the same as when he were younger) - and he can get the ball in the endzone. Good for Cleveland and good for Jamal.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

Last year the Steelers lost Joey Porter and then had to use their top two draft picks on LBers to replace Joey. This year its possible they lose Faneca and have to use their top pick on an offensive lineman. Heck their offensive line could use help anyway but if they lose Fanceca then Pittsburgh is using the draft to put out fires cause by loss of free agents. Cleveland let go of a broken down 750 yard RB and picked up a 1,300 yard rusher in free agency and then Baltimore had to use two-third round draft picks to plug the hole left by Jamal Lewis leaving.

Point being that Cleveland just prevented a hole so they aren't spinning wheels like Pittsburgh/Baltimore in blowing draft selections filling holes. We've got the salary cap so their is no cap hit and it prevents a hole from forming. So Pittsburgh/Baltimore can crow all they want, as a Browns fan I like the signing. Oh and I distinctly recall many Baltimore fans scoffing at the Browns signing of Jamal and how they FINALLY got a RB. Funny thing is Jamal Lewis OUT-RUSHED Willis McGahee and got stronger as the year progressed.

First off I didn't scoff and in fact said I didn't think it was a bad move. I was just saying that traditionally the Steelers do well against big backs like Lewis. Please point out where I was crowing.As far as Porter and Faneca go the Steelers have always felt it is better to let a player go a year too early than a year to late -- a philosophy that has worked pretty well for them.

The Browns had a nice season last year and look like they might finally be turning the corner instead of being perennial losers. I don't blame you for being excited but I think it is silly for Browns fans to start ridiculing the Steelers and Ravens.

Steeler fans don't scoff they just make comments like the following in Browns threads.As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this. -GB- I am too.

If a Browns fan were to use such backhanded compliments on Steeler moves it might go something like so.

As a Browns fan I don't think franchising Max Starks is a bad move but I'm happy about it because it means Alan Faneca is pretty much gone continuing the perrenial spinning of wheels by the Steelers. I'm not scoffing at the SteelerS. I think its a great strategy and I'm happy for them.

And since you brought up the topic. The Steelers kept losing free agents due to not being able to pay them but it appears you say that is the Steelers free agent strategy? So want to say that they don't want Fanceca back but instead they prefer to lose him? So if they then spend a high pick trying to replace him, its a good thing?

I don't have any problems with anyone but don't try to pat me on the head and tell me I'm silly for seeing thru a backhanded compliment like. As a Steeler fan I'm happy the Browns re-signed Jamal Lewis. Yeah me too because we traditionally stop him. What do you expect you should get as a reply? A box of chocolates? Sorry to dissapoint you. I'll try to bend over backwards and just see what you want me to see the next time you come into a thread pertaining to the Browns and call us perrenial losers and silly for daing to reply.

 

[Godsbrother]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

Last year the Steelers lost Joey Porter and then had to use their top two draft picks on LBers to replace Joey. This year its possible they lose Faneca and have to use their top pick on an offensive lineman. Heck their offensive line could use help anyway but if they lose Fanceca then Pittsburgh is using the draft to put out fires cause by loss of free agents. Cleveland let go of a broken down 750 yard RB and picked up a 1,300 yard rusher in free agency and then Baltimore had to use two-third round draft picks to plug the hole left by Jamal Lewis leaving.

Point being that Cleveland just prevented a hole so they aren't spinning wheels like Pittsburgh/Baltimore in blowing draft selections filling holes. We've got the salary cap so their is no cap hit and it prevents a hole from forming. So Pittsburgh/Baltimore can crow all they want, as a Browns fan I like the signing. Oh and I distinctly recall many Baltimore fans scoffing at the Browns signing of Jamal and how they FINALLY got a RB. Funny thing is Jamal Lewis OUT-RUSHED Willis McGahee and got stronger as the year progressed.

First off I didn't scoff and in fact said I didn't think it was a bad move. I was just saying that traditionally the Steelers do well against big backs like Lewis. Please point out where I was crowing.As far as Porter and Faneca go the Steelers have always felt it is better to let a player go a year too early than a year to late -- a philosophy that has worked pretty well for them.

The Browns had a nice season last year and look like they might finally be turning the corner instead of being perennial losers. I don't blame you for being excited but I think it is silly for Browns fans to start ridiculing the Steelers and Ravens.

Steeler fans don't scoff they just make comments like the following in Browns threads.As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this. -GB- I am too.

If a Browns fan were to use such backhanded compliments on Steeler moves it might go something like so.

As a Browns fan I don't think franchising Max Starks is a bad move but I'm happy about it because it means Alan Faneca is pretty much gone continuing the perrenial spinning of wheels by the Steelers. I'm not scoffing at the SteelerS. I think its a great strategy and I'm happy for them.

And since you brought up the topic. The Steelers kept losing free agents due to not being able to pay them but it appears you say that is the Steelers free agent strategy? So want to say that they don't want Fanceca back but instead they prefer to lose him? So if they then spend a high pick trying to replace him, its a good thing?

I don't have any problems with anyone but don't try to pat me on the head and tell me I'm silly for seeing thru a backhanded compliment like. As a Steeler fan I'm happy the Browns re-signed Jamal Lewis. Yeah me too because we traditionally stop him. What do you expect you should get as a reply? A box of chocolates? Sorry to dissapoint you. I'll try to bend over backwards and just see what you want me to see the next time you come into a thread pertaining to the Browns and call us perrenial losers and silly for daing to reply.

Ummm, okay. This is a football message board and I was just stating my feelings on the Brown's signing of Lewis. I wasn't saying it was a bad deal for the Browns but that my favorite team usually does a good job against him. If my reply upset you then I apologize.As for your remarks regarding the Steelers not being able to pay their free agents I really don't know what you're talking about. The Steelers, like every other NFL team, must make decisions every year on which of their free agents they are going to keep and which they are going to let go. Two years ago they opened their wallets and resigned Hines Ward and let Randel El go because he wanted #1 WR money and he was the #3 WR on the team. Last season they signed Polamalu to a huge contract and let Joey Porter go because they felt his skills were declining.

This season they will be signing Roethlisberger to the biggest contract in team history. As far as Faneca goes they know that he wants a long term contract for too much guaranteed money and feel he is on the downside of his career. Of course they would like to have him but you must be careful not to overpay, especially aging veterans.

 

[Irish]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

Last year the Steelers lost Joey Porter and then had to use their top two draft picks on LBers to replace Joey. This year its possible they lose Faneca and have to use their top pick on an offensive lineman. Heck their offensive line could use help anyway but if they lose Fanceca then Pittsburgh is using the draft to put out fires cause by loss of free agents. Cleveland let go of a broken down 750 yard RB and picked up a 1,300 yard rusher in free agency and then Baltimore had to use two-third round draft picks to plug the hole left by Jamal Lewis leaving. Point being that Cleveland just prevented a hole so they aren't spinning wheels like Pittsburgh/Baltimore in blowing draft selections filling holes. We've got the salary cap so their is no cap hit and it prevents a hole from forming. So Pittsburgh/Baltimore can crow all they want, as a Browns fan I like the signing. Oh and I distinctly recall many Baltimore fans scoffing at the Browns signing of Jamal and how they FINALLY got a RB. Funny thing is Jamal Lewis OUT-RUSHED Willis McGahee and got stronger as the year progressed.

I think the Lewis signing is a good move for Clev. It brings stability to a franchise that looks like it finally turned the corner to respectability. Using the point of the Steelers releasing Porter really hurts your argument. Porter did nothing in his last season with Pitt and did nothing in Miami last yr. Regarding Faneca while he is still a very solid Guard, he no longer is a Pro Bowl type player even though he got voted in again. He is an aging veteran who still is good, but wants to be paid like he is still great. Teams have to make these decisions every off season and I believe teams are smarter these days vs early days during FA years in letting aging former stars go and replace with younger and cheaper alternatives. And as a Browns fan I sure hope you are not being critical of other teams draft picks with your teams draft history and just last yr spent 2 1st rd picks on a backup qb.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

'Godsbrother' date='Feb 24 2008, 09:14 AM' ... Ummm, okay. This is a football message board and I was just stating my feelings on the Brown's signing of Lewis. I wasn't saying it was a bad deal for the Browns but that my favorite team usually does a good job against him. If my reply upset you then I apologize.As for your remarks regarding the Steelers not being able to pay their free agents I really don't know what you're talking about. The Steelers, like every other NFL team, must make decisions every year on which of their free agents they are going to keep and which they are going to let go. Two years ago they opened their wallets and resigned Hines Ward and let Randel El go because he wanted #1 WR money and he was the #3 WR on the team. Last season they signed Polamalu to a huge contract and let Joey Porter go because they felt his skills were declining. This season they will be signing Roethlisberger to the biggest contract in team history. As far as Faneca goes they know that he wants a long term contract for too much guaranteed money and feel he is on the downside of his career. Of course they would like to have him but you must be careful not to overpay, especially aging veterans.

Good reply. I also apologize if I had caused any ill feelings.Pittsburgh has lost talented free agents in the past, two leap to mind, Chad Brown and Plaxico Burress but were able to maintain by using the draft to restock. They held an advantage over the league with a long standing stable defensive scheme that provided leverage in the draft with 'tweeners' and 34 DEs that they could pick up later in the draft or for DEs they could acquire elder 43 DTs and move them outside. Brilliant strategy that gave them an edge for decades on acquiring defensive personnel. However the Roonies (sp?) admitted that they couldn't afford to resign their free agents with a facility like Three Rivers. They said made the antiquated stadium made it impossible to sign their players. They claimed they needed a new stadium to compete in free agency and used that leverage to get Hines Field. After they got their new digs they began resigning their free agents but some lingering effects make them appear tight with money. Not changing the surface of Hines field and listing money as the reason. Not resigning HOF HC Bill Cowher played a role in the unhappiness of Faneca. He seemed open to resigning and I'm sure he would still be there if the Steelers had opened up their pocket book. From the outside the Steelers past coupled with other events give the impression they are tight with money. Recently they have begun to sign guys but lets be honest, we both know they could use Faneca and that when he leaves they will have to use a high pick to replace him which looks like the Steelers of old who would lose talented players and would be forced to use the draft to restock. They were able to dip into the draft and not miss a beat due to a built in advantage that they held in getting players for their defensive scheme. Losing Cowher means the stable coaching has been breached. They system could change and then other teams are switching to 34 base packages so the old paradim that the Steelers had used may not work any longer. Last year they had to use a first round pick on a LB. Think back to the last time that happened? Before Cowher and it didn't suprise me that it happened again after Bill left. I won't go into other things but for now the Steelers are stable but at turning point IMHO. Things are changing but I don't know what will happen.Bottom line for right now, if I were Steeler GM I would realize that Ben lacks a solid pass protecting line and it would be imperative for the Steelers build him a wall ASAP and stop exposing him to udue risk since the future of the team depends on his health.

 

[jurb26]

Wow, it's ridiculous that Lewis is still getting hardly any respect.

 

[Bobcat10]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

Last year the Steelers lost Joey Porter and then had to use their top two draft picks on LBers to replace Joey. This year its possible they lose Faneca and have to use their top pick on an offensive lineman. Heck their offensive line could use help anyway but if they lose Fanceca then Pittsburgh is using the draft to put out fires cause by loss of free agents. Cleveland let go of a broken down 750 yard RB and picked up a 1,300 yard rusher in free agency and then Baltimore had to use two-third round draft picks to plug the hole left by Jamal Lewis leaving. Point being that Cleveland just prevented a hole so they aren't spinning wheels like Pittsburgh/Baltimore in blowing draft selections filling holes. We've got the salary cap so their is no cap hit and it prevents a hole from forming. So Pittsburgh/Baltimore can crow all they want, as a Browns fan I like the signing. Oh and I distinctly recall many Baltimore fans scoffing at the Browns signing of Jamal and how they FINALLY got a RB. Funny thing is Jamal Lewis OUT-RUSHED Willis McGahee and got stronger as the year progressed.

I think the Lewis signing is a good move for Clev. It brings stability to a franchise that looks like it finally turned the corner to respectability. Using the point of the Steelers releasing Porter really hurts your argument. Porter did nothing in his last season with Pitt and did nothing in Miami last yr. Regarding Faneca while he is still a very solid Guard, he no longer is a Pro Bowl type player even though he got voted in again. He is an aging veteran who still is good, but wants to be paid like he is still great. Teams have to make these decisions every off season and I believe teams are smarter these days vs early days during FA years in letting aging former stars go and replace with younger and cheaper alternatives. And as a Browns fan I sure hope you are not being critical of other teams draft picks with your teams draft history and just last yr spent 2 1st rd picks on a backup qb.

solid post until your last sentence. should have let it go there, and got your facts straight.

 

[Irish]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

Last year the Steelers lost Joey Porter and then had to use their top two draft picks on LBers to replace Joey. This year its possible they lose Faneca and have to use their top pick on an offensive lineman. Heck their offensive line could use help anyway but if they lose Fanceca then Pittsburgh is using the draft to put out fires cause by loss of free agents. Cleveland let go of a broken down 750 yard RB and picked up a 1,300 yard rusher in free agency and then Baltimore had to use two-third round draft picks to plug the hole left by Jamal Lewis leaving. Point being that Cleveland just prevented a hole so they aren't spinning wheels like Pittsburgh/Baltimore in blowing draft selections filling holes. We've got the salary cap so their is no cap hit and it prevents a hole from forming. So Pittsburgh/Baltimore can crow all they want, as a Browns fan I like the signing. Oh and I distinctly recall many Baltimore fans scoffing at the Browns signing of Jamal and how they FINALLY got a RB. Funny thing is Jamal Lewis OUT-RUSHED Willis McGahee and got stronger as the year progressed.

I think the Lewis signing is a good move for Clev. It brings stability to a franchise that looks like it finally turned the corner to respectability. Using the point of the Steelers releasing Porter really hurts your argument. Porter did nothing in his last season with Pitt and did nothing in Miami last yr. Regarding Faneca while he is still a very solid Guard, he no longer is a Pro Bowl type player even though he got voted in again. He is an aging veteran who still is good, but wants to be paid like he is still great. Teams have to make these decisions every off season and I believe teams are smarter these days vs early days during FA years in letting aging former stars go and replace with younger and cheaper alternatives. And as a Browns fan I sure hope you are not being critical of other teams draft picks with your teams draft history and just last yr spent 2 1st rd picks on a backup qb.

solid post until your last sentence. should have let it go there, and got your facts straight.

Did the Browns not pick Quinn in the 1st rd last yr and traded away this year's 1st rd pick in the deal? 1+1=2 1st rd picks. The definition of backup qb is one who does not start for his team and Quinn rode the pine and did not start a game last yr . I think I got the facts pretty straight.

 

[Moniker]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

Last year the Steelers lost Joey Porter and then had to use their top two draft picks on LBers to replace Joey. This year its possible they lose Faneca and have to use their top pick on an offensive lineman. Heck their offensive line could use help anyway but if they lose Fanceca then Pittsburgh is using the draft to put out fires cause by loss of free agents. Cleveland let go of a broken down 750 yard RB and picked up a 1,300 yard rusher in free agency and then Baltimore had to use two-third round draft picks to plug the hole left by Jamal Lewis leaving. Point being that Cleveland just prevented a hole so they aren't spinning wheels like Pittsburgh/Baltimore in blowing draft selections filling holes. We've got the salary cap so their is no cap hit and it prevents a hole from forming. So Pittsburgh/Baltimore can crow all they want, as a Browns fan I like the signing. Oh and I distinctly recall many Baltimore fans scoffing at the Browns signing of Jamal and how they FINALLY got a RB. Funny thing is Jamal Lewis OUT-RUSHED Willis McGahee and got stronger as the year progressed.

I think the Lewis signing is a good move for Clev. It brings stability to a franchise that looks like it finally turned the corner to respectability. Using the point of the Steelers releasing Porter really hurts your argument. Porter did nothing in his last season with Pitt and did nothing in Miami last yr. Regarding Faneca while he is still a very solid Guard, he no longer is a Pro Bowl type player even though he got voted in again. He is an aging veteran who still is good, but wants to be paid like he is still great. Teams have to make these decisions every off season and I believe teams are smarter these days vs early days during FA years in letting aging former stars go and replace with younger and cheaper alternatives. And as a Browns fan I sure hope you are not being critical of other teams draft picks with your teams draft history and just last yr spent 2 1st rd picks on a backup qb.

solid post until your last sentence. should have let it go there, and got your facts straight.

Did the Browns not pick Quinn in the 1st rd last yr and traded away this year's 1st rd pick in the deal? 1+1=2 1st rd picks. The definition of backup qb is one who does not start for his team and Quinn rode the pine and did not start a game last yr . I think I got the facts pretty straight.

Your facts may be straight, but your math is wrong.

 

[mcintyre1]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

You can attribute last season as a fluke, I'll attribute it to this is the Jamal Lewis to expect with a full offseason to prepare. He was recovering from surgery and in jail the two offseasons prior and his numbers suffered. I don't know if he's got three solid years left, but I am confident he has two. I like the deal...and $12.5 mil, $5.5 mil guaranteed over three years is not expensive, look at other backs making that much and you'll see how it's not a bad deal.I am not so sure Pittsburgh's going to be handling the big backs like J Lew anymore. They didn't look the same without Aaron Smith (they have no depth), they're losing Haggans to free agency, and Farrior's not getting any younger. Not saying I am expecting a regression, but no personnel being brought in may mean new expectations from the defense. What's the word on the scheme anyway? I remember last offseason talk about transitioning to the 4-3 to better fit Omar Epps' style, but haven't heard any chatter this year just yet.

I don't think we're likely to see a change in defense as long as Lebeau is still around.

 

[wadegarrett]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

Last year the Steelers lost Joey Porter and then had to use their top two draft picks on LBers to replace Joey. This year its possible they lose Faneca and have to use their top pick on an offensive lineman. Heck their offensive line could use help anyway but if they lose Fanceca then Pittsburgh is using the draft to put out fires cause by loss of free agents. Cleveland let go of a broken down 750 yard RB and picked up a 1,300 yard rusher in free agency and then Baltimore had to use two-third round draft picks to plug the hole left by Jamal Lewis leaving. Point being that Cleveland just prevented a hole so they aren't spinning wheels like Pittsburgh/Baltimore in blowing draft selections filling holes. We've got the salary cap so their is no cap hit and it prevents a hole from forming. So Pittsburgh/Baltimore can crow all they want, as a Browns fan I like the signing. Oh and I distinctly recall many Baltimore fans scoffing at the Browns signing of Jamal and how they FINALLY got a RB. Funny thing is Jamal Lewis OUT-RUSHED Willis McGahee and got stronger as the year progressed.

I think the Lewis signing is a good move for Clev. It brings stability to a franchise that looks like it finally turned the corner to respectability. Using the point of the Steelers releasing Porter really hurts your argument. Porter did nothing in his last season with Pitt and did nothing in Miami last yr. Regarding Faneca while he is still a very solid Guard, he no longer is a Pro Bowl type player even though he got voted in again. He is an aging veteran who still is good, but wants to be paid like he is still great. Teams have to make these decisions every off season and I believe teams are smarter these days vs early days during FA years in letting aging former stars go and replace with younger and cheaper alternatives. And as a Browns fan I sure hope you are not being critical of other teams draft picks with your teams draft history and just last yr spent 2 1st rd picks on a backup qb.

solid post until your last sentence. should have let it go there, and got your facts straight.

Did the Browns not pick Quinn in the 1st rd last yr and traded away this year's 1st rd pick in the deal? 1+1=2 1st rd picks. The definition of backup qb is one who does not start for his team and Quinn rode the pine and did not start a game last yr . I think I got the facts pretty straight.

Your facts may be straight, but your math is wrong.

 

[Irish]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

Last year the Steelers lost Joey Porter and then had to use their top two draft picks on LBers to replace Joey. This year its possible they lose Faneca and have to use their top pick on an offensive lineman. Heck their offensive line could use help anyway but if they lose Fanceca then Pittsburgh is using the draft to put out fires cause by loss of free agents. Cleveland let go of a broken down 750 yard RB and picked up a 1,300 yard rusher in free agency and then Baltimore had to use two-third round draft picks to plug the hole left by Jamal Lewis leaving. Point being that Cleveland just prevented a hole so they aren't spinning wheels like Pittsburgh/Baltimore in blowing draft selections filling holes. We've got the salary cap so their is no cap hit and it prevents a hole from forming. So Pittsburgh/Baltimore can crow all they want, as a Browns fan I like the signing. Oh and I distinctly recall many Baltimore fans scoffing at the Browns signing of Jamal and how they FINALLY got a RB. Funny thing is Jamal Lewis OUT-RUSHED Willis McGahee and got stronger as the year progressed.

I think the Lewis signing is a good move for Clev. It brings stability to a franchise that looks like it finally turned the corner to respectability. Using the point of the Steelers releasing Porter really hurts your argument. Porter did nothing in his last season with Pitt and did nothing in Miami last yr. Regarding Faneca while he is still a very solid Guard, he no longer is a Pro Bowl type player even though he got voted in again. He is an aging veteran who still is good, but wants to be paid like he is still great. Teams have to make these decisions every off season and I believe teams are smarter these days vs early days during FA years in letting aging former stars go and replace with younger and cheaper alternatives. And as a Browns fan I sure hope you are not being critical of other teams draft picks with your teams draft history and just last yr spent 2 1st rd picks on a backup qb.

solid post until your last sentence. should have let it go there, and got your facts straight.

Did the Browns not pick Quinn in the 1st rd last yr and traded away this year's 1st rd pick in the deal? 1+1=2 1st rd picks. The definition of backup qb is one who does not start for his team and Quinn rode the pine and did not start a game last yr . I think I got the facts pretty straight.

Your facts may be straight, but your math is wrong.

He only told me to get my facts straight and you guys agree with me, so that is settled. I've learned long ago to never take maf lessons from Browns fans.

 

[kupcho1]

I don't have any problems with anyone but don't try to pat me on the head and tell me I'm silly for seeing thru a backhanded compliment like.

Nothing backhanded about it since it wasn't a compliment.I'm glad the Browns signed Jamal. I'd rather see him back there (tying up some good cash for 3 years) than someone like Michael Turner or (should they be able to parlay Anderson into a high draft pick) one of the excellent backs coming out this year.Jamal - no disrespect intended - is old. Old RBs tend to break down (not predicting injury, just stating fact). Putting a Turner, or Stewart or Jones with Braylon, Winslow, et. al. would have been much scarier both next year and beyond. Scary.Jamal - not so much.

 

[schaef2k]

I don't have any problems with anyone but don't try to pat me on the head and tell me I'm silly for seeing thru a backhanded compliment like.

Nothing backhanded about it since it wasn't a compliment.I'm glad the Browns signed Jamal. I'd rather see him back there (tying up some good cash for 3 years) than someone like Michael Turner or (should they be able to parlay Anderson into a high draft pick) one of the excellent backs coming out this year.Jamal - no disrespect intended - is old. Old RBs tend to break down (not predicting injury, just stating fact). Putting a Turner, or Stewart or Jones with Braylon, Winslow, et. al. would have been much scarier both next year and beyond. Scary.Jamal - not so much.

Signing Lewis to a 3 year deal was done to use this year’s free agency and draft to rebuild the defensive front 7. The biggest hole the Browns have is Dline not running back.How much better would Turner do that Lewis in the same offense? Jamal rushed for 1300 yards and had 11 TDs. If the Browns don’t sign him then they have to either burn a high draft pick on a running back or spend some serious money in free agency to get a back comparable to Lewis.Also he’s 28. Everyone wrote him off last year saying that he was washed up. I think Lewis has 2 year left in the tank and that’s all the Browns need out of him.A better Dline will win the Browns more games than spending tons of money on a running back that MIGHT be able to improve on Lewis’s stats by 15-20%. That’s no guarantee either.Great singing for the Browns IMO.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

Last year the Steelers lost Joey Porter and then had to use their top two draft picks on LBers to replace Joey. This year its possible they lose Faneca and have to use their top pick on an offensive lineman. Heck their offensive line could use help anyway but if they lose Fanceca then Pittsburgh is using the draft to put out fires cause by loss of free agents. Cleveland let go of a broken down 750 yard RB and picked up a 1,300 yard rusher in free agency and then Baltimore had to use two-third round draft picks to plug the hole left by Jamal Lewis leaving. Point being that Cleveland just prevented a hole so they aren't spinning wheels like Pittsburgh/Baltimore in blowing draft selections filling holes. We've got the salary cap so their is no cap hit and it prevents a hole from forming. So Pittsburgh/Baltimore can crow all they want, as a Browns fan I like the signing. Oh and I distinctly recall many Baltimore fans scoffing at the Browns signing of Jamal and how they FINALLY got a RB. Funny thing is Jamal Lewis OUT-RUSHED Willis McGahee and got stronger as the year progressed.

I think the Lewis signing is a good move for Clev. It brings stability to a franchise that looks like it finally turned the corner to respectability. Using the point of the Steelers releasing Porter really hurts your argument. Porter did nothing in his last season with Pitt and did nothing in Miami last yr. Regarding Faneca while he is still a very solid Guard, he no longer is a Pro Bowl type player even though he got voted in again. He is an aging veteran who still is good, but wants to be paid like he is still great. Teams have to make these decisions every off season and I believe teams are smarter these days vs early days during FA years in letting aging former stars go and replace with younger and cheaper alternatives. And as a Browns fan I sure hope you are not being critical of other teams draft picks with your teams draft history and just last yr spent 2 1st rd picks on a backup qb.

solid post until your last sentence. should have let it go there, and got your facts straight.

Did the Browns not pick Quinn in the 1st rd last yr and traded away this year's 1st rd pick in the deal? 1+1=2 1st rd picks. The definition of backup qb is one who does not start for his team and Quinn rode the pine and did not start a game last yr . I think I got the facts pretty straight.

Your facts may be straight, but your math is wrong.

He only told me to get my facts straight and you guys agree with me, so that is settled. I've learned long ago to never take maf lessons from Browns fans.

The Cleveland Browns made a trade with the Dallas Cowboys.The Brows surrendered their second round pick, #36 pick in the 07 draft, in order to move up to the 22nd pick in the first round of 07. Dallas also acquired Cleveland's first round pick in 08. Many thought Cleveland would do poorly. Many overlooked how the Browns had been making improvements in personnel and that the offensive line and quarterback positions were key to making a vast improvement in their record. So the Browns finished with 10 wins which put their first round draft pick of the 08 draft at #22. So the math is quite simple.The Browns gave up- 07 second round pick, #36 pick- 08 first round pick, #22The Browns acquired- 07 first round pick, #22Pretty straight forward math shows the Browns gave up one second round pick in 07 and one first round pick in 08. The cost of ATTAINING the 07 first round pick can only be what the Browns gave up to get that pick which was a second rounder in 07 and a first rounder in 08. Now if you dispute that fact then go ahead and make your case. But you can't make any other case because their isn't. You're wrong on your math.

 

[jurb26]

Also he’s 28.

People have been saying this since Jamal was 25. Jamal must have lived a 100 years by now according to some around here.

 

[TheFanatic]

I don't have any problems with anyone but don't try to pat me on the head and tell me I'm silly for seeing thru a backhanded compliment like.

Nothing backhanded about it since it wasn't a compliment.I'm glad the Browns signed Jamal. I'd rather see him back there (tying up some good cash for 3 years) than someone like Michael Turner or (should they be able to parlay Anderson into a high draft pick) one of the excellent backs coming out this year.

Jamal - no disrespect intended - is old. Old RBs tend to break down (not predicting injury, just stating fact).

Putting a Turner, or Stewart or Jones with Braylon, Winslow, et. al. would have been much scarier both next year and beyond. Scary.

Jamal - not so much.

Tying up good cash? Well, I guess all cash is good, but they didn't tie up a lot of cash. if the signing bonus is $6 million and he plays this year and they cut him next year it will only cost them a $4 million cap hit. If they wait till after June 1st it's only $2 million next year and the year after. They are only really responsible for the signing bonus as the salary is not guaranteed so they can part ways with Jamal pretty cheaply after this year should they choose to.All in all it's a great move to keep the high powered O in tact. Bolster the D and I think you are going to see your mighty Steelers get crushed this year. They look to lose not just one O lineman, but two

 

[Irish]

As a Steelers fan, I'm very happy about this.

I am too. Jamal had a nice season last year but he's had a few shakey seasons in the not too distant past and he'll be a year older. I am not saying it was a bad move but Jamal Lewis is the kind of back the Steelers usually shut down pretty well.

Last year the Steelers lost Joey Porter and then had to use their top two draft picks on LBers to replace Joey. This year its possible they lose Faneca and have to use their top pick on an offensive lineman. Heck their offensive line could use help anyway but if they lose Fanceca then Pittsburgh is using the draft to put out fires cause by loss of free agents. Cleveland let go of a broken down 750 yard RB and picked up a 1,300 yard rusher in free agency and then Baltimore had to use two-third round draft picks to plug the hole left by Jamal Lewis leaving. Point being that Cleveland just prevented a hole so they aren't spinning wheels like Pittsburgh/Baltimore in blowing draft selections filling holes. We've got the salary cap so their is no cap hit and it prevents a hole from forming. So Pittsburgh/Baltimore can crow all they want, as a Browns fan I like the signing. Oh and I distinctly recall many Baltimore fans scoffing at the Browns signing of Jamal and how they FINALLY got a RB. Funny thing is Jamal Lewis OUT-RUSHED Willis McGahee and got stronger as the year progressed.

I think the Lewis signing is a good move for Clev. It brings stability to a franchise that looks like it finally turned the corner to respectability. Using the point of the Steelers releasing Porter really hurts your argument. Porter did nothing in his last season with Pitt and did nothing in Miami last yr. Regarding Faneca while he is still a very solid Guard, he no longer is a Pro Bowl type player even though he got voted in again. He is an aging veteran who still is good, but wants to be paid like he is still great. Teams have to make these decisions every off season and I believe teams are smarter these days vs early days during FA years in letting aging former stars go and replace with younger and cheaper alternatives. And as a Browns fan I sure hope you are not being critical of other teams draft picks with your teams draft history and just last yr spent 2 1st rd picks on a backup qb.

solid post until your last sentence. should have let it go there, and got your facts straight.

Did the Browns not pick Quinn in the 1st rd last yr and traded away this year's 1st rd pick in the deal? 1+1=2 1st rd picks. The definition of backup qb is one who does not start for his team and Quinn rode the pine and did not start a game last yr . I think I got the facts pretty straight.

Your facts may be straight, but your math is wrong.

He only told me to get my facts straight and you guys agree with me, so that is settled. I've learned long ago to never take maf lessons from Browns fans.

The Cleveland Browns made a trade with the Dallas Cowboys.The Brows surrendered their second round pick, #36 pick in the 07 draft, in order to move up to the 22nd pick in the first round of 07. Dallas also acquired Cleveland's first round pick in 08. Many thought Cleveland would do poorly. Many overlooked how the Browns had been making improvements in personnel and that the offensive line and quarterback positions were key to making a vast improvement in their record. So the Browns finished with 10 wins which put their first round draft pick of the 08 draft at #22. So the math is quite simple.The Browns gave up- 07 second round pick, #36 pick- 08 first round pick, #22The Browns acquired- 07 first round pick, #22Pretty straight forward math shows the Browns gave up one second round pick in 07 and one first round pick in 08. The cost of ATTAINING the 07 first round pick can only be what the Browns gave up to get that pick which was a second rounder in 07 and a first rounder in 08. Now if you dispute that fact then go ahead and make your case. But you can't make any other case because their isn't. You're wrong on your math.

Let me try this again. The Browns traded their 2nd rd pick in 07 and their 1st rd pick in 08 to acquire 07 1st rd pick. They used 07 1st rd pick on Quinn and it costs them a 08 1st rd pick to acquire the 07 1st rd pick. The opportunity cost is two 1st rd picks to get Quinn. Maybe I'm being thick headed and cannot see your logic or vice versa.

 

[Irish]

I don't have any problems with anyone but don't try to pat me on the head and tell me I'm silly for seeing thru a backhanded compliment like.

Nothing backhanded about it since it wasn't a compliment.I'm glad the Browns signed Jamal. I'd rather see him back there (tying up some good cash for 3 years) than someone like Michael Turner or (should they be able to parlay Anderson into a high draft pick) one of the excellent backs coming out this year.

Jamal - no disrespect intended - is old. Old RBs tend to break down (not predicting injury, just stating fact).

Putting a Turner, or Stewart or Jones with Braylon, Winslow, et. al. would have been much scarier both next year and beyond. Scary.

Jamal - not so much.

Tying up good cash? Well, I guess all cash is good, but they didn't tie up a lot of cash. if the signing bonus is $6 million and he plays this year and they cut him next year it will only cost them a $4 million cap hit. If they wait till after June 1st it's only $2 million next year and the year after. They are only really responsible for the signing bonus as the salary is not guaranteed so they can part ways with Jamal pretty cheaply after this year should they choose to.All in all it's a great move to keep the high powered O in tact. Bolster the D and I think you are going to see your mighty Steelers get crushed this year. They look to lose not just one O lineman, but two

They are losing Faneca, but who do else do you see them losing? I think the 08 season for both the Steelers and the Browns is going to be a tell tale sign of which direction each franchise is headed for. Steelers OL and defensive play was not up to Steelers standards last yr and will that continue and will the Browns bulid on last yr's 10 win season or take a step back due to tougher schedule?

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Per Irish

The Cleveland Browns made a trade with the Dallas Cowboys.

The Brows surrendered their second round pick, #36 pick in the 07 draft, in order to move up to the 22nd pick in the first round of 07. Dallas also acquired Cleveland's first round pick in 08. Many thought Cleveland would do poorly. Many overlooked how the Browns had been making improvements in personnel and that the offensive line and quarterback positions were key to making a vast improvement in their record. So the Browns finished with 10 wins which put their first round draft pick of the 08 draft at #22.

So the math is quite simple.

The Browns gave up

- 07 second round pick, #36 pick

- 08 first round pick, #22

The Browns acquired

- 07 first round pick, #22

Pretty straight forward math shows the Browns gave up one second round pick in 07 and one first round pick in 08. The cost of ATTAINING the 07 first round pick can only be what the Browns gave up to get that pick which was a second rounder in 07 and a first rounder in 08. Now if you dispute that fact then go ahead and make your case. But you can't make any other case because their isn't. You're wrong on your math.

Let me try this again. The Browns traded their 2nd rd pick in 07 and their 1st rd pick in 08 to acquire 07 1st rd pick. They used 07 1st rd pick on Quinn and it costs them a 08 1st rd pick to acquire the 07 1st rd pick. The opportunity cost is two 1st rd picks to get Quinn. Maybe I'm being thick headed and cannot see your logic or vice versa.

Actually not trying to give you grief but you are just not getting it.Last chance Irish and then you'll have to find someone else to explain it to ya.

How about we try this.

How about if we pretend that the Browns actually owned the 22nd pick in the first round of the 07 draft last year but for some CRAZY reason they decided to trade down to the #36 pick of the second round and give up their pick at #22 and their 08 first round pick for the #36 pick in the second round of 07. OK?

So pretending that scenario then YOU WOULD BE CORRECT. THEN the Browns would have traded a first round in 07 the #22 pick in 07 and their first round pick this year which also happens to be the #22 pick in 08 for the privledge of trading down to the #36 of the 07 draft in the second round to select Brady Quinn but we both know that they didn't do that. Instead the Browns owned the #36 pick of the second round and traded up to the #22 pick of the 07 draft in the first round to take Brady Quinn.

Cost in 07? The #36 pick which was Cleveland's second round pick that year.

Cost in 08? The #22 pick which would have been Cleveland's pick had they not traded it along with their 07 second round pick to acquire Dallas' 07 pick which was the #22 pick in the 07 draft.

Do you get it now?