BROWNS THREAD 2009 4 GAME WIN STREAK! (1 Viewer)

[Kendall]

.

 

[Chickenwang]

http://broncosfreaks.com/index.php/2009/03...-to-the-browns/

what do the Browns fans think of this...

 

[Bobcat10]

ManKok.

Nice.

Won't even get filtered out here.

 

[Bobcat10]

http://broncosfreaks.com/index.php/2009/03...-to-the-browns/

what do the Browns fans think of this...

If Rogers is going to be moved, that is a big IF, then I would not rule out anything.Not sure I like it as I'd love to keep Rogers. But I'd think he could get a 2nd in return alone, and maybe a late pick too.

 

[wadegarrett]

http://broncosfreaks.com/index.php/2009/03...-to-the-browns/

what do the Browns fans think of this...

So Mangini wants "a gun slinging, cannon armed QB to run his offense"? Don't the Browns already have one of those in Anderson?ETA: < 1% chance of this happening...man I hate the offseason rumor crap that people put out there

 

[Tecumseh]

http://broncosfreaks.com/index.php/2009/03...-to-the-browns/

what do the Browns fans think of this...

So Mangini wants "a gun slinging, cannon armed QB to run his offense"? Don't the Browns already have one of those in Anderson?ETA: < 1% chance of this happening...man I hate the offseason rumor crap that people put out there

My first thought as well. As long as we're discussing wild rumors, I'm more intrigued by the Edwards for Kiwanuka one.

 

[Bobcat10]

Not much on the FA front, so I guess this is news worthy...

http://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/...uld_free_u.html

Adding Chris Carr could free up Joshua Cribbs

by Tony Grossi, Plain Dealer Reporter Tuesday March 03, 2009, 9:02 AM

Joshua Cribbs.That talk of the Browns finally getting more out of Josh Cribbs on offense and defense might be more than just talk. The first sign of a commitment to expand Cribbs' roles is an expected visit Tuesday by Tennessee free agent Chris Carr.

Carr is a cornerback by trade, but has made his mark with the Titans as a return specialist. If the Browns use Cribbs more on offense, or defense, as indicated by coach Eric Mangini recently, they might reduce his workload as a returner.

Carr was fourth in the NFL last year with a kickoff return average of 28.1 yards. Cribbs was 16th at 25.2. Carr also bettered Cribbs in punt return average last year, 10.1 to 8.1.

Carr, who is 5-10 and 180 pounds, visited the Detroit Lions on Monday. He said in Detroit he wants to play more cornerback and would probably decide among Tennessee, Detroit and Cleveland after visiting the Browns.

 

[Bobcat10]

So with Seattle bringing in TJ, how significantly do you think that impacts them taking Crabtree? I see them passing now.

You'd have to think Braylon + Crabtree > Braylon + Winslow.

Maybe this is what ManKok is thinking. And then the defense still blows....

 

[nxmehta]

Build through the draft.

Best thing they can do and it appears this is the way they'll go.

I agree with this in principle, but I don't know if I trust ManKok to pull off solid drafts.That was the one thing we could actually count on Savage for. In drafts filled with landmines I think he did pretty darn well.

 

[amnesiac]

http://broncosfreaks.com/index.php/2009/03...-to-the-browns/

what do the Browns fans think of this...

i think that's an awful trade on the Cleveland end.

 

[Fallerjw]

So with Seattle bringing in TJ, how significantly do you think that impacts them taking Crabtree? I see them passing now.You'd have to think Braylon + Crabtree > Braylon + Winslow. Maybe this is what ManKok is thinking. And then the defense still blows....

I was debating this today. If Curry is gone, and you absolutely can't trade down, who do you take at pick 5? I hate the idea of reaching for another LB, and really hate the idea of taking a DB there. Do you go Raji (reach?), Orakpo (reach?), Crabtree, top OT remaining?

 

[MAC_32]

So with Seattle bringing in TJ, how significantly do you think that impacts them taking Crabtree? I see them passing now.You'd have to think Braylon + Crabtree > Braylon + Winslow. Maybe this is what ManKok is thinking. And then the defense still blows....

I was debating this today. If Curry is gone, and you absolutely can't trade down, who do you take at pick 5? I hate the idea of reaching for another LB, and really hate the idea of taking a DB there. Do you go Raji (reach?), Orakpo (reach?), Crabtree, top OT remaining?

I'd want Cushing.

 

[NJDawgPound]

For what it's worth they were talking on Sirius NFL today about the Parcells, Belichick, Mangini, McDaniels, etc. way. McDaniels may have wanted it to get back to Cutler that he wasn't untouchable, Mangini may want to ruffle the feathers of Quinn and Rogers so that the whole facility is uncomfortable and knows to either step up or get out. It makes sense; taking away job security has been effective under Parcells and Belichick.

Don't know how much truth there is to it though.

 

[NJDawgPound]

Looks like the Cutler + 3rd for Quinn/Rogers was an intentially started rumor! LOL if true

 

[Fallerjw]

So with Seattle bringing in TJ, how significantly do you think that impacts them taking Crabtree? I see them passing now.You'd have to think Braylon + Crabtree > Braylon + Winslow. Maybe this is what ManKok is thinking. And then the defense still blows....

I was debating this today. If Curry is gone, and you absolutely can't trade down, who do you take at pick 5? I hate the idea of reaching for another LB, and really hate the idea of taking a DB there. Do you go Raji (reach?), Orakpo (reach?), Crabtree, top OT remaining?

I'd want Cushing.

at pick #5 though?

 

[MAC_32]

So with Seattle bringing in TJ, how significantly do you think that impacts them taking Crabtree? I see them passing now.You'd have to think Braylon + Crabtree > Braylon + Winslow. Maybe this is what ManKok is thinking. And then the defense still blows....

I was debating this today. If Curry is gone, and you absolutely can't trade down, who do you take at pick 5? I hate the idea of reaching for another LB, and really hate the idea of taking a DB there. Do you go Raji (reach?), Orakpo (reach?), Crabtree, top OT remaining?

I'd want Cushing.

at pick #5 though?

I'd rather trade down a few picks, but if we can't get a buyer, yes.

 

[Fallerjw]

So with Seattle bringing in TJ, how significantly do you think that impacts them taking Crabtree? I see them passing now.You'd have to think Braylon + Crabtree > Braylon + Winslow. Maybe this is what ManKok is thinking. And then the defense still blows....

I was debating this today. If Curry is gone, and you absolutely can't trade down, who do you take at pick 5? I hate the idea of reaching for another LB, and really hate the idea of taking a DB there. Do you go Raji (reach?), Orakpo (reach?), Crabtree, top OT remaining?

I'd want Cushing.

at pick #5 though?

I'd rather trade down a few picks, but if we can't get a buyer, yes.

Interesting.....anybody else?

 

[duece2626]

So with Seattle bringing in TJ, how significantly do you think that impacts them taking Crabtree? I see them passing now.You'd have to think Braylon + Crabtree > Braylon + Winslow. Maybe this is what ManKok is thinking. And then the defense still blows....

I was debating this today. If Curry is gone, and you absolutely can't trade down, who do you take at pick 5? I hate the idea of reaching for another LB, and really hate the idea of taking a DB there. Do you go Raji (reach?), Orakpo (reach?), Crabtree, top OT remaining?

I'd want Cushing.

at pick #5 though?

I'd rather trade down a few picks, but if we can't get a buyer, yes.

Interesting.....anybody else?

As a Browns fan, I'd be pissed if we took Cushing at #5.

 

[Tecumseh]

I guess I'd be willing to take Orakpo at 5. I do not want Jenkins, Wells, or Crabtree. I would actually prefer not to have the 5 at all if Curry is gone. Trading out should be the 2nd option behind Curry.

 

[MAC_32]

I guess I'd be willing to take Orakpo at 5. I do not want Jenkins, Wells, or Crabtree. I would actually prefer not to have the 5 at all if Curry is gone. Trading out should be the 2nd option behind Curry.

I agree, but trading down isn't always an option.

 

[Fallerjw]

I guess I'd be willing to take Orakpo at 5. I do not want Jenkins, Wells, or Crabtree. I would actually prefer not to have the 5 at all if Curry is gone. Trading out should be the 2nd option behind Curry.

I agree, but trading down isn't always an option.

Exactly. I think I'd probably look at the options like this for now:1. Curry2. Trade down3. Trade down4. Crabtree? I know we need defense, but I think he can be a real difference maker5. Orakpo, if he can play OLB in a 3-46. Raji, can he play DE in a 3-4If we trade down, I like the idea of being able to get Maualuga, Laurenitis, Cushing, Orakpt or Raji if they are there.

 

[wadegarrett]

I guess I'd be willing to take Orakpo at 5. I do not want Jenkins, Wells, or Crabtree. I would actually prefer not to have the 5 at all if Curry is gone. Trading out should be the 2nd option behind Curry.

I agree, but trading down isn't always an option.

Exactly. I think I'd probably look at the options like this for now:1. Curry2. Trade down3. Trade down4. Crabtree? I know we need defense, but I think he can be a real difference maker5. Orakpo, if he can play OLB in a 3-46. Raji, can he play DE in a 3-4If we trade down, I like the idea of being able to get Maualuga, Laurenitis, Cushing, Orakpt or Raji if they are there.

I agree w/ Tecumseh...no Curry then probably Orakpo. My 2nd choice would be Maualuga. Would love to see us grab Matthews in Round 2.

 

[Bobcat10]

I guess I'd be willing to take Orakpo at 5. I do not want Jenkins, Wells, or Crabtree. I would actually prefer not to have the 5 at all if Curry is gone. Trading out should be the 2nd option behind Curry.

I agree, but trading down isn't always an option.

Exactly. I think I'd probably look at the options like this for now:1. Curry2. Trade down3. Trade down4. Crabtree? I know we need defense, but I think he can be a real difference maker5. Orakpo, if he can play OLB in a 3-46. Raji, can he play DE in a 3-4If we trade down, I like the idea of being able to get Maualuga, Laurenitis, Cushing, Orakpt or Raji if they are there.

I agree w/ Tecumseh...no Curry then probably Orakpo. My 2nd choice would be Maualuga. Would love to see us grab Matthews in Round 2.

Baby Clay would be great.Trading down is wishful thinking for the most part. We talk about it every year and it never happens. Unless a team really wants to move up to get somebody, we're gonna be stuck at 5. The only player that looks to be attractive enough for someone to move would be Crabtree. If he's there you pretty much can bank Stafford, Curry, an OT, and one other player (possibly 2nd OT) are gone. If Detroit passes on Stafford, he could be there at 5, but teams know Cincy and Oakland will not take him at 6/7 so they would be more likely trading partners than us.

 

[Tecumseh]

I guess I'd be willing to take Orakpo at 5. I do not want Jenkins, Wells, or Crabtree. I would actually prefer not to have the 5 at all if Curry is gone. Trading out should be the 2nd option behind Curry.

I agree, but trading down isn't always an option.

Exactly. I think I'd probably look at the options like this for now:1. Curry2. Trade down3. Trade down4. Crabtree? I know we need defense, but I think he can be a real difference maker5. Orakpo, if he can play OLB in a 3-46. Raji, can he play DE in a 3-4If we trade down, I like the idea of being able to get Maualuga, Laurenitis, Cushing, Orakpt or Raji if they are there.

I agree w/ Tecumseh...no Curry then probably Orakpo. My 2nd choice would be Maualuga. Would love to see us grab Matthews in Round 2.

Baby Clay would be great.Trading down is wishful thinking for the most part. We talk about it every year and it never happens. Unless a team really wants to move up to get somebody, we're gonna be stuck at 5. The only player that looks to be attractive enough for someone to move would be Crabtree. If he's there you pretty much can bank Stafford, Curry, an OT, and one other player (possibly 2nd OT) are gone. If Detroit passes on Stafford, he could be there at 5, but teams know Cincy and Oakland will not take him at 6/7 so they would be more likely trading partners than us.

There were 24 trades in the 1st 2 rounds last year. Yes, that's a record high, but shows that teams are willing to make moves to get who they want.

 

[Tecumseh]

BTW is Paul Hubbard still on the team?

 

[duece2626]

BTW is Paul Hubbard still on the team?

I believe so.

 

[Fallerjw]

BTW is Paul Hubbard still on the team?

I believe so.

I thought they might pick SOMEBODY up in the first 6 days of free agency. Maybe they think last year's 4-12 team (minus Winslow) is already good enough.......

 

[MAC_32]

BTW is Paul Hubbard still on the team?

I believe so.

I thought they might pick SOMEBODY up in the first 6 days of free agency. Maybe they think last year's 4-12 team (minus Winslow) is already good enough.......

I'm actually happy they're staying relatively quiet.

 

[Tecumseh]

BTW is Paul Hubbard still on the team?

I believe so.

I thought they might pick SOMEBODY up in the first 6 days of free agency. Maybe they think last year's 4-12 team (minus Winslow) is already good enough.......

Here you go. SuperBowl bound.

Cleveland Browns sign tight end Robert Royal

by Mary Kay Cabot / Plain Dealer reporter

Wednesday March 04, 2009, 8:44 PM

Lynne Sladky / Associated Press

Robert Royal puts on his Buffalo Bills helmet last fall.He'll be getting a brown-and-orange one soon.

Bills free agent tight end Robert Royal told the Plain Dealer Wednesday night that he had signed a contract with the Browns earlier in the afternoon and overnighted it to the team.

"Everything should be official by (Thursday)," Royal said. "I'm definitely excited to be a member of the Cleveland Browns and start a new chapter in my life."

Royal, 30, is an eight-year pro and three-year veteran of the Bills. At 6-4, 255, he's known more for his blocking, but is also a good receiver. He caught 33 passes for 351 yards with one touchdown last season. Overall, he caught 81 passes with seven TDs with the Bills.

Originally a 5th-round pick of the Redskins out of Louisiana State in 2002, Royal signed as a free agent with the Bills in 2006 and was cut Feb. 26 in a salary-cap move.

Royal, who also visited with the Jets, said he met Sunday and Monday with the Browns staff, including offensive coordinator Brian Daboll. "It's a terrific staff and I'm excited to come to work with them," he said.

Royal said he didn't know exactly what his role would be "but whatever it is, I'm all for it," he said. The Browns also have tight end Steve Heiden, who's coming off surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament and 2008 fourth-round pick Martin Rucker.

Royal is the first free agent to agree to terms with the Browns.

 

[Fallerjw]

BTW is Paul Hubbard still on the team?

I believe so.

I thought they might pick SOMEBODY up in the first 6 days of free agency. Maybe they think last year's 4-12 team (minus Winslow) is already good enough.......

Here you go. SuperBowl bound.

Cleveland Browns sign tight end Robert Royal

by Mary Kay Cabot / Plain Dealer reporter

Wednesday March 04, 2009, 8:44 PM

Lynne Sladky / Associated Press

Robert Royal puts on his Buffalo Bills helmet last fall.He'll be getting a brown-and-orange one soon.

Bills free agent tight end Robert Royal told the Plain Dealer Wednesday night that he had signed a contract with the Browns earlier in the afternoon and overnighted it to the team.

"Everything should be official by (Thursday)," Royal said. "I'm definitely excited to be a member of the Cleveland Browns and start a new chapter in my life."

Royal, 30, is an eight-year pro and three-year veteran of the Bills. At 6-4, 255, he's known more for his blocking, but is also a good receiver. He caught 33 passes for 351 yards with one touchdown last season. Overall, he caught 81 passes with seven TDs with the Bills.

Originally a 5th-round pick of the Redskins out of Louisiana State in 2002, Royal signed as a free agent with the Bills in 2006 and was cut Feb. 26 in a salary-cap move.

Royal, who also visited with the Jets, said he met Sunday and Monday with the Browns staff, including offensive coordinator Brian Daboll. "It's a terrific staff and I'm excited to come to work with them," he said.

Royal said he didn't know exactly what his role would be "but whatever it is, I'm all for it," he said. The Browns also have tight end Steve Heiden, who's coming off surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament and 2008 fourth-round pick Martin Rucker.

Royal is the first free agent to agree to terms with the Browns.

 

[nxmehta]

I think these are the kinds of signings we're going to be seeing for the next couple of years in Cleveland. "Tough" and "smart" football players... who are just random guys. I guess blocking doesn't really show up on the stat sheet though.

But hey, if ManKok's plans work, I'm all for it.

 

[NJDawgPound]

We need playmakers. If that play comes from a great block, so be it. Hell, some blame the missed block by Webster Slaughter on Byner's fumble for missing the Super Bowl.



Just trying to stay positive. I would have liked to see Jabari Greer here though.

 

[Bobcat10]

I guess I'd be willing to take Orakpo at 5. I do not want Jenkins, Wells, or Crabtree. I would actually prefer not to have the 5 at all if Curry is gone. Trading out should be the 2nd option behind Curry.

I agree, but trading down isn't always an option.

Exactly. I think I'd probably look at the options like this for now:1. Curry2. Trade down3. Trade down4. Crabtree? I know we need defense, but I think he can be a real difference maker5. Orakpo, if he can play OLB in a 3-46. Raji, can he play DE in a 3-4If we trade down, I like the idea of being able to get Maualuga, Laurenitis, Cushing, Orakpt or Raji if they are there.

I agree w/ Tecumseh...no Curry then probably Orakpo. My 2nd choice would be Maualuga. Would love to see us grab Matthews in Round 2.

Baby Clay would be great.Trading down is wishful thinking for the most part. We talk about it every year and it never happens. Unless a team really wants to move up to get somebody, we're gonna be stuck at 5. The only player that looks to be attractive enough for someone to move would be Crabtree. If he's there you pretty much can bank Stafford, Curry, an OT, and one other player (possibly 2nd OT) are gone. If Detroit passes on Stafford, he could be there at 5, but teams know Cincy and Oakland will not take him at 6/7 so they would be more likely trading partners than us.

There were 24 trades in the 1st 2 rounds last year. Yes, that's a record high, but shows that teams are willing to make moves to get who they want.

How many of those involved top 5 teams? I should have been more clear on that. I'm just saying I don't like our chances to move unless somebody REALLY wants Crabtree or Stafford. The price to pay, picks and dollars, is alot to make that kind of move.

 

[Tecumseh]

I guess I'd be willing to take Orakpo at 5. I do not want Jenkins, Wells, or Crabtree. I would actually prefer not to have the 5 at all if Curry is gone. Trading out should be the 2nd option behind Curry.

I agree, but trading down isn't always an option.

Exactly. I think I'd probably look at the options like this for now:1. Curry2. Trade down3. Trade down4. Crabtree? I know we need defense, but I think he can be a real difference maker5. Orakpo, if he can play OLB in a 3-46. Raji, can he play DE in a 3-4If we trade down, I like the idea of being able to get Maualuga, Laurenitis, Cushing, Orakpt or Raji if they are there.

I agree w/ Tecumseh...no Curry then probably Orakpo. My 2nd choice would be Maualuga. Would love to see us grab Matthews in Round 2.

Baby Clay would be great.Trading down is wishful thinking for the most part. We talk about it every year and it never happens. Unless a team really wants to move up to get somebody, we're gonna be stuck at 5. The only player that looks to be attractive enough for someone to move would be Crabtree. If he's there you pretty much can bank Stafford, Curry, an OT, and one other player (possibly 2nd OT) are gone. If Detroit passes on Stafford, he could be there at 5, but teams know Cincy and Oakland will not take him at 6/7 so they would be more likely trading partners than us.

There were 24 trades in the 1st 2 rounds last year. Yes, that's a record high, but shows that teams are willing to make moves to get who they want.

How many of those involved top 5 teams? I should have been more clear on that. I'm just saying I don't like our chances to move unless somebody REALLY wants Crabtree or Stafford. The price to pay, picks and dollars, is alot to make that kind of move.

You're probably spot on. You just never know when a GM gets a hard-on for a particular player, and is willing to do whatever he has to to get him.

 

[Bobcat10]

We need playmakers. If that play comes from a great block, so be it. Hell, some blame the missed block by Webster Slaughter on Byner's fumble for missing the Super Bowl. Just trying to stay positive. I would have liked to see Jabari Greer here though.

You don't think Webster should take any blame on that play?

 

[NJDawgPound]

We need playmakers. If that play comes from a great block, so be it. Hell, some blame the missed block by Webster Slaughter on Byner's fumble for missing the Super Bowl. Just trying to stay positive. I would have liked to see Jabari Greer here though.

You don't think Webster should take any blame on that play?

Half Webster, Half Byner.

 

[Jedeye]

How often do you see the Steelers make a big splash in free agency? In fact, the are usually the team losing free agents, not signing them. It seems to work for them, so maybe that is the thought process with the new regime.

I have to hope. I have to.

 

[amnesiac]

You're probably spot on. You just never know when a GM gets a hard-on for a particular player, and is willing to do whatever he has to to get him.

like Butch Davis trading up one spot for Winslow.

 

[MAC_32]

How often do you see the Steelers make a big splash in free agency? In fact, the are usually the team losing free agents, not signing them. It seems to work for them, so maybe that is the thought process with the new regime.I have to hope. I have to.

This is why I'm happy we're not doing anything. This team lacks an identity, recently we've just tried to buy our talent, it didn't work. ManKok's at least trying something different. Build through the draft, when we're ready to make a run at a title fill the holes in free agency. Sort of like what the Jets did under Mangini until the front office screwed up and forced Favre on him.

 

[Bobcat10]

Cleveland Browns re-sign safety Mike Adams

by Mary Kay Cabot / Plain Dealer Reporter Thursday March 05, 2009, 8:47 PM

Sean Jones is scheduled to visit the Eagles on Friday.The Browns re-signed safety Mike Adams to a three-year deal Thursday, his agent Peter Schaffer said. A source said it's a $4.1 million deal. Adams had also visited the Packers and Patriots.

Originally signed by the Browns as a free agent in April 2007, Adams started five games for the Browns last season and played in 14.

With fellow free-agent safety Sean Jones visiting the Eagles Friday, Adams becomes a leading candidate for a starting safety job. Last season, he started the opener in place of Brodney Pool (concussion) and the next four games in place of Jones, who underwent arthroscopic knee surgery.

He finished the season with 42 tackles, two interceptions and one fumble recovery.

Adams (5-11, 195), is a sixth-year pro who was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent by San Francisco in 2004 out of Delaware. Adams, also a key special teams player, finished second on the team in 2007 with 18 special teams tackles.

 

[Reaper]

How often do you see the Steelers make a big splash in free agency? In fact, the are usually the team losing free agents, not signing them. It seems to work for them, so maybe that is the thought process with the new regime.

I have to hope. I have to.

This is why I'm happy we're not doing anything. This team lacks an identity, recently we've just tried to buy our talent, it didn't work. ManKok's at least trying something different. Build through the draft, when we're ready to make a run at a title fill the holes in free agency. Sort of like what the Jets did under Mangini until the front office screwed up and forced Favre on him.

I wouldn't go that far - I wouldn't even call it a screw up, it was a 4 win team rolling the dice that won 9 games and Favre got hurt - not some Redskin 6 year cap deal or anything here..

Anyway, I agree that Mangini would tend to sit back and build a base and then add FA's later on when he feels he's closer or when he has a great need (NT)...

I think Cleveland should draft BJ Raji - This way no matter what Rodgers does they have a fall back and they could probably move him around and use him at DE like a Ty Warren...

One thing Mangini should know is that his whole philosophy is garbage without Beef and I also would stay clear of trying to convert any De's to OLB for a while - Maybe that is where you use FA for a proven commodity.

 

[eric rymer]

So with Seattle bringing in TJ, how significantly do you think that impacts them taking Crabtree? I see them passing now.You'd have to think Braylon + Crabtree > Braylon + Winslow. Maybe this is what ManKok is thinking. And then the defense still blows....

I was debating this today. If Curry is gone, and you absolutely can't trade down, who do you take at pick 5? I hate the idea of reaching for another LB, and really hate the idea of taking a DB there. Do you go Raji (reach?), Orakpo (reach?), Crabtree, top OT remaining?

I'd want Cushing.

at pick #5 though?

I'd rather trade down a few picks, but if we can't get a buyer, yes.

I agree. The more I've seen of Cush the more I really like this kid. I hate the thought of taking him at 5, but outside of Curry, I think Cush is the 'type' of guy we need. I'd love to drop about 5 spots and grab another pick along the way if possible. If not, I'd be content gettign him at 5. He's tough and plays hard nosed football. I really like his "going to work" attitude. He appreciates the opportunity that he has and wants to make the best of it.

 

[Tecumseh]

Hank Poteat. This changes EVERYTHING!!

 

[Bobcat10]

Reaper/Jets fans...chime in...

Sounds like Poteat is just a vet that the Browns need in the secondary. I'd think getting Barton would be a good signing for the Browns. Finally get somebody beside DeQwell in the 3-4 that can play. Don't know much on Mosely or Bowens.

Browns sign Poteat, talk to another former Jet

by Mary Kay Cabot and Tony Grossi Monday March 09, 2009, 10:30 PM

Browns coach Eric Mangini continues to call on his former Jets players to fortify his new team. The Browns signed ninth-year reserve cornerback Hank Poteat, 31, as an unrestricted free agent Monday night. Terms of the deal were undisclosed.

"Hank is a veteran corner who has played inside and outside," said Browns General Manager George Kokinis said in a release. "His versatility and knowledge of the system will be an asset to our secondary."

Meanwhile, the Browns continued to negotiate with another Jet and began talking with another. On Friday, they signed backup defensive lineman C.J. Mosley, another former Mangini player. The agent for linebacker David Bowens said he and the Browns are still talking, but there's nothing new to report.

Eric Barton, another Jets linebacker, also has met with the Browns. Barton, 30, led the Jets in tackles last year. He started 46 of 48 games in three years under Mangini.

Poteat, who has made 18 starts in his eight seasons, would most likely play in the nickel defenses with the Browns. Last season, he started one of the 13 games he played for the Jets, making a career-high 41 tackles, one sack, two forced fumbles, two interceptions and four passes defensed.

Browns fans might remember Poteat (5-10, 195) as one of the cornerbacks who was on the field for Pittsburgh when former Browns quarterback Kelly Holcomb threw for 429 yards in a 36-33 come-from-behind playoff victory by the Steelers after the 2002 season. It was Poteat's first career start.

A third-round pick of the Steelers out of Pitt, Poteat spent three season with the Steelers, a brief stint with the Bucs, two seasons with the Patriots and three with the Jets. His career highlight was winning a Super Bowl ring with the Patriots following the 2004 season after signing with them just for the postseason. He made one tackle in the Super Bowl victory over the Eagles.

 

[Reaper]

Reaper/Jets fans...chime in...

Sounds like Poteat is just a vet that the Browns need in the secondary. I'd think getting Barton would be a good signing for the Browns. Finally get somebody beside DeQwell in the 3-4 that can play. Don't know much on Mosely or Bowens.

Mosely was a Jets project for a while who developed into a nice interior player. Bowens is a good team guy that the Jets would love to have back he can play a few different positions and Barton I liked as well great team guy, real good motor. Poteat is just filler and just "another CB".... I think Barton and Bowens are good locker rooms guys.

Like with the Jets and Ravens player, I like these kind of signings to help teach the new defense, though maybe Rob Ryan has more of a say now. I said I wanted Barton back in the Jets thread.. I'd take any one of em back but, I'd rather have an upgrade over Poteat.

.

.

BTW I just saw a Draft ranking that has Raji as the 3rd best player in the draft... DRAFT

They have Cushing wayyy down the list and isn't Cushing a tweener project??? ILB???? Does Mangini really need that? I've also heard the steroid rumors...

I remember when the Jets took D'Brick and I wanted Ngata real bad - Big Guys like this don't come around too often.

I'm so convinced that Mangini should take Raji and even play him at DE if need be until Rogers acts up again.... Mangini is not going to want to deal with Rogers BS and his whole philosphy is so dependent on this position....

 

[MAC_32]

They have Cushing wayyy down the list and isn't Cushing a tweener project??? ILB???? Does Mangini really need that? I've also heard the steroid rumors...

He's not really a tweener, he can play a multitude of positions. Think, Adalius Thomas. My only concerns with him revolve around health and roids, if either of those are truly issues (I'm not privy to that sort of information) than by all means we should pass on him (I'd be on board with Raji) but if neither are really issues I think Cush is going to be a great player, wherever he ends up.

 

[amnesiac]

couple of random thoughts:

as far as all the Jets coming to the Browns, as long as they are signed to fair contracts, it makes sense. maybe this defense needs a bunch of no-names who can actually play together and know where to be at the right time. the guys they are replacing really weren't too exciting either.

as far as the draft, i tend to agree with the thinking that if the big dude who fits your system is available, you should probably take him. maybe i'd feel differently if Wimbley had been a sackmaster. but good NTs aren't very common.

draft day trades with the Browns... unlikely. maybe we'll see someone a couple of spots behind them trade up for Crabtree, a team who fell in love with him before the injury news? probably not, but you never know with a team like Oakland sitting at #7. i really don't see any of the teams with multiple first round picks moving up into the top 5.

quarterbacks... i really can't figure this out. i don't see where they are going to get enough in return for Anderson, AND be able to replace him with some depth behind Quinn at this point. at the same time, i don't see how they can craft an offense that both of these guys could run. they just seem too different to me. maybe a team that misses out on a QB in the draft offers someone interesting for DA? maybe a linebacker with a couple of good years left in him? now i'm just babbling.

 

[Reaper]

They have Cushing wayyy down the list and isn't Cushing a tweener project??? ILB???? Does Mangini really need that? I've also heard the steroid rumors...

He's not really a tweener, he can play a multitude of positions. Think, Adalius Thomas. My only concerns with him revolve around health and roids, if either of those are truly issues (I'm not privy to that sort of information) than by all means we should pass on him (I'd be on board with Raji) but if neither are really issues I think Cush is going to be a great player, wherever he ends up.

Really? Isn't Thomas like 30lbs heavier AND Faster?NFLdraftscout has their combine #'s at:

AT: 270 lbs 4.56 40 yd draftscout

BC: 243 lbs 4.68 40 yd Draftscout

That site also has the steroid notes that he addressed at the combine. Also has durability issues.

Wasn't Thomas a Project that took years to be what he is?

The reason I like Raji so much is because, at a pick that high you pretty much go for the sure thing and time will tell but, IMO he's much more of a sure thing.. Besides the fact that 1) Rogers is already acting up, 2) the scheme is like 90% dependent on a NT 3) NT's are getting tons of money these days and 4) Raji and Rogers together could be a site to see with Raji at DE in the 3/4 - in this scheme, if you build a wall like that up front, then there's a lot of room for scheming behind them.

I guess Cushing would be an ILB in the 3-4 - Would he have speed for OLB or beef for 3/4 DE.

 

[Chickenwang]

Enough with picking up the Jets scrubs....

I think they should make a run at Holt. 2yr deal. The guy can still catch the ball, and the Browns have no clear #1 or #2 receiver. I think Holt could ease the pain for Edwards.

 

[nxmehta]

I don't know about Raji. He's like Rogers Jr., with the same attitude and motor questions, but less size and intelligence. I don't think he's one of those smart, high motor football players that Mangini is looking for. I think it's much more likely that we go after Orakpo. Mangini has shown that he loves workout warriors.