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

[Tecumseh]

I'll be honest, if Crabtree fell to us I wouldn't mind grabbing him and shipping off Braylon for a late first or second, or even Anquan Boldin if Arizona obliges. Come to think of it, that may make sense considering Warner mentioned his decision to return somewhat hinges on the Boldin situation. I think Edwards might be a nice replacement. Boldin gets his money, #1 receiver status, and out of AZ, and Edwards gets a change of scenery. Is this far fetched?

I could see DA and Braylon for Boldin and a couple of late picks.

 

[eric rymer]

I'll be honest, if Crabtree fell to us I wouldn't mind grabbing him and shipping off Braylon for a late first or second, or even Anquan Boldin if Arizona obliges. Come to think of it, that may make sense considering Warner mentioned his decision to return somewhat hinges on the Boldin situation. I think Edwards might be a nice replacement. Boldin gets his money, #1 receiver status, and out of AZ, and Edwards gets a change of scenery. Is this far fetched?

I would absolutely love to see Boldin in Cleveland. He has just the kind of work ethic that would make him a perfect fit.

 

[Fallerjw]

As much as I think Jenkins will be a good NFL player, I really hope they don't take him with the 5th pick. Great defenses are not lead by shut down or potential shut down corners. They are led by LB's and DL. I really hope they find a way to get a play maker in the front 7, because that's really what they need.

Having said that, I would LOVE to see Crabtree in a Browns uniform.

 

[DawgPoundNJ]

As much as I think Jenkins will be a good NFL player, I really hope they don't take him with the 5th pick. Great defenses are not lead by shut down or potential shut down corners. They are led by LB's and DL. I really hope they find a way to get a play maker in the front 7, because that's really what they need.Having said that, I would LOVE to see Crabtree in a Browns uniform.

I can't believe I'm saying this, but I have faith in Wright and McDonald. The problem is that when guys like Jay Cutler have absolutely ALL DAY in the pocket, guys are going to get open. Great pass rushes make great secondaries due to rushed throws, happy feet, and all of that. I still hope though that the Raiders have a brain fart and not franchise Asomugha, and Rob Ryan convinces him to come here. And I would also love Crabtree.

 

[MAC_32]

As much as I think Jenkins will be a good NFL player, I really hope they don't take him with the 5th pick. Great defenses are not lead by shut down or potential shut down corners. They are led by LB's and DL. I really hope they find a way to get a play maker in the front 7, because that's really what they need.Having said that, I would LOVE to see Crabtree in a Browns uniform.

I can't believe I'm saying this, but I have faith in Wright and McDonald. The problem is that when guys like Jay Cutler have absolutely ALL DAY in the pocket, guys are going to get open. Great pass rushes make great secondaries due to rushed throws, happy feet, and all of that. I still hope though that the Raiders have a brain fart and not franchise Asomugha, and Rob Ryan convinces him to come here. And I would also love Crabtree.

We have other pressing needs than corner, I agree, but I do not have faith in McDonald anymore. I think he'd be fine as the nickel back but I think we need an upgrade on the outside. I think are chances at getting Asomugha are less than slim, I'd like us to look at the Steelers' McFadden or (if cheap enough) the Texans' Dunta Robinson.I still hope our big free agent splash is at LB, someone who can get to the QB, Suggs would be ideal but I'm not going to get my hopes up.

 

[wadegarrett]

Might be in the minority from what I've read, but I want the Browns to draft Crabtree about as much as I want a kick in the balls.

I'm sick of watching the Browns get run (and passed) over week after week after week. I want defense, defense, defense and more defense.

 

[DawgPoundNJ]

Let me preface what I meant before.

If for some reason the Browns trade Edwards for a pick, I wouldn't mind if one of our picks resulted in Crabtree. Taking Crabtree with our pressing needs as is makes us Millen's Lions.

People say it's the safe but not exciting pick, but I'm warming up to Curry.

 

[MAC_32]

Let me preface what I meant before. If for some reason the Browns trade Edwards for a pick, I wouldn't mind if one of our picks resulted in Crabtree. Taking Crabtree with our pressing needs as is makes us Millen's Lions. People say it's the safe but not exciting pick, but I'm warming up to Curry.

 

[wadegarrett]

Let me preface what I meant before.

If for some reason the Browns trade Edwards for a pick, I wouldn't mind if one of our picks resulted in Crabtree. Taking Crabtree with our pressing needs as is makes us Millen's Lions.

People say it's the safe but not exciting pick, but I'm warming up to Curry.

Then I'd be on board w/ Crabtree.

 

[eric rymer]

Let me preface what I meant before.

If for some reason the Browns trade Edwards for a pick, I wouldn't mind if one of our picks resulted in Crabtree. Taking Crabtree with our pressing needs as is makes us Millen's Lions.

People say it's the safe but not exciting pick, but I'm warming up to Curry.

Then I'd be on board w/ Crabtree.

Under this scenario so am I. I just keep reading more and more that KC is seriously considering Curry. God I hope not. He really needs to wear Brown and Orange.

 

[Bracie Smathers]

Hey Eric,

Good job on the mock.

Pass rusher is the top priority.

In 2007 we finished sixth from the bottom of the league with only 28 sacks.

Last year in 2008 we finished third from the bottom but only had 17 sacks.

We just cut OLB Antwan Peek which means we're down to Willie McGhinnest starting opposite of Kamerion Wimbley at OLB.

Curry seems to be at the top of everyone's list at OLB but he only had 2.5 sacks last year. Rey M had zero sacks last year.

Kiper says Orackpo projects as an OLB/DE which seems to be what our defense is lacking.

http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artic...331/1004/SPORTS

... DE Brian Orakpo, Texas: Pass-rushing ace won Nagurski Award but could play LB in NFL.

Pass rusher seems to be the top priority so you did a good job in the mock.

 

[amnesiac]

Might be in the minority from what I've read, but I want the Browns to draft Crabtree about as much as I want a kick in the balls.I'm sick of watching the Browns get run (and passed) over week after week after week. I want defense, defense, defense and more defense.

 

[Bobcat10]

Anyone listening to Rizzo?

DA for a 2nd is stirring in Berea?

He won't name his sources.

Post if anything else is revealed on the last half hour of the show.

 

[DawgPoundNJ]

I'll drive him to the airport.

 

[MAC_32]

Apparently the potential deal is with the Jets, even if it's just a 3rd rounder I'd hit accept before the offering teamhas a chance to revoke their offer.

 

[Reaper]

Apparently the potential deal is with the Jets, even if it's just a 3rd rounder I'd hit accept before the offering teamhas a chance to revoke their offer.

Is he that bad?I'm not hearing anything on this end but, he seemed to play alright the prior year, no?I know Schefter last night said it "made sense" but, all word in NY was that the Jets weren't interested....Hmmmm... Sounds like all speculation based on something Schefter pretty much made up.But, back to the important question why the DA hate - is Quinn that much better for sure?

 

[DawgPoundNJ]

Apparently the potential deal is with the Jets, even if it's just a 3rd rounder I'd hit accept before the offering teamhas a chance to revoke their offer.

Is he that bad?I'm not hearing anything on this end but, he seemed to play alright the prior year, no?I know Schefter last night said it "made sense" but, all word in NY was that the Jets weren't interested....Hmmmm... Sounds like all speculation based on something Schefter pretty much made up.But, back to the important question why the DA hate - is Quinn that much better for sure?

Here are some of the frustrating things about Anderson from many Browns fans:-Inconsistency. He'll have a Hall of Fame game (Giants) and follow it up with a couple of stinkers. -He'll hit the long pass with that strong arm of his yet will overthrow or hit Jamal Lewis' or Winslow's feet on a screen pass. Zero touch. -Questionable huddle presence leading to fights on the sidelines.-Bad two minute drill instincts. -Seems to have hit his ceiling as far as learning and improvement. Many of these flaws were partly due to Crennel and Chudzinski's play calling. That said, I thank Derek Anderson for a great 2007 season and wish him the best. I just think it's better for the team and Quinn to see what Quinn's got.

 

[Bobcat10]

Apparently the potential deal is with the Jets, even if it's just a 3rd rounder I'd hit accept before the offering teamhas a chance to revoke their offer.

I'm not hearing anything on this end but, he seemed to play alright the prior year, no?I know Schefter last night said it "made sense" but, all word in NY was that the Jets weren't interested....Hmmmm... Sounds like all speculation based on something Schefter pretty much made up.

And Clayton said no way the Browns make a deal with the Jets involving Anderson b/c Mangini wouldn't do it.My point is, I don't think Rizzo talks about this the way he did because of what anyone could hear from Schefter/Clayton. Doesn't fit Rizzo's mold and really doesn't make much sense anyways.I'd also like to know where MAC heard it was with the Jets. Of course the Jets are going to be mentioned b/c they are in the news now with Favre gone, but to say the potential deal IS with them is taking it a step further.

 

[nxmehta]

I'll drive him to the airport.

And I'll pack his lunch for the plane.

 

[MAC_32]

Apparently the potential deal is with the Jets, even if it's just a 3rd rounder I'd hit accept before the offering teamhas a chance to revoke their offer.

I'm not hearing anything on this end but, he seemed to play alright the prior year, no?I know Schefter last night said it "made sense" but, all word in NY was that the Jets weren't interested....Hmmmm... Sounds like all speculation based on something Schefter pretty much made up.

And Clayton said no way the Browns make a deal with the Jets involving Anderson b/c Mangini wouldn't do it.My point is, I don't think Rizzo talks about this the way he did because of what anyone could hear from Schefter/Clayton. Doesn't fit Rizzo's mold and really doesn't make much sense anyways.I'd also like to know where MAC heard it was with the Jets. Of course the Jets are going to be mentioned b/c they are in the news now with Favre gone, but to say the potential deal IS with them is taking it a step further.

Buddy of mine who works for the Browns, he's right about 75% of the time on these things but then again that was during Romeo's regime. He may not have the same sort of pipeline for information that he used to have so take this with a very large grain of salt.Reaper, don't confuse my post with DA hate, his time has just been spent in this town, a lot of it is not his fault and that's too bad but the cons to his game are glaring and documented well by Dawg. He'll probably never win a Super Bowl (or even come close) as a starter but he has value. Problem is his perceived value is ridiculously low right now, which is why if we're offered a 3rd round or earlier pick I want us to jump at it because I think there's a good chance that's the best offer we'll get.

 

[Tecumseh]

Apparently the potential deal is with the Jets, even if it's just a 3rd rounder I'd hit accept before the offering teamhas a chance to revoke their offer.

Is he that bad?I'm not hearing anything on this end but, he seemed to play alright the prior year, no?I know Schefter last night said it "made sense" but, all word in NY was that the Jets weren't interested....Hmmmm... Sounds like all speculation based on something Schefter pretty much made up.But, back to the important question why the DA hate - is Quinn that much better for sure?

He certainly has his issues, but he's been scapegoated by the fans. The guy is only 25. Tons of upside. I'd rather see Quinn get traded.I'm am solidly in the minority with this opinion.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

Apparently the potential deal is with the Jets, even if it's just a 3rd rounder I'd hit accept before the offering teamhas a chance to revoke their offer.

Local NY papers said the Jets are not interested in Anderson - of course that doesn't mean a heck of alot. Personally I'd be pissed if they trade for Anderson as I think Clemens or Ratliff have just as much upside/downside as Anderson.

 

[DawgPoundNJ]

Apparently the potential deal is with the Jets, even if it's just a 3rd rounder I'd hit accept before the offering teamhas a chance to revoke their offer.

Local NY papers said the Jets are not interested in Anderson - of course that doesn't mean a heck of alot. Personally I'd be pissed if they trade for Anderson as I think Clemens or Ratliff have just as much upside/downside as Anderson.

Being in the NYC area, I keep an eye on the Jets. I watched every preseason game last year and Ratliff looked like he had been running the offense for years. I'd rank him over Clemens right now. As for Anderson, I think Minnesota would be a nicer fit. By the way, First Take was discussing the possibility of Kurt Warner to the Jets, for what it's worth.

 

[Fallerjw]

Is anybody else hoping the Browns make putting a huge offer on the table for Haynesworth a top priority?

 

[DawgPoundNJ]

Is anybody else hoping the Browns make putting a huge offer on the table for Haynesworth a top priority?

Haven't thought too much about Haynesworth, but yeah, he'd be nice.I am crossing my fingers that the Raiders don't franchise Nnamdi Asomugha and Rob Ryan convinces him to come here. T minus 28 hours to go and the Raiders haven't franchised him yet...

 

[Tecumseh]

Is anybody else hoping the Browns make putting a huge offer on the table for Haynesworth a top priority?

Haven't thought too much about Haynesworth, but yeah, he'd be nice.I am crossing my fingers that the Raiders don't franchise Nnamdi Asomugha and Rob Ryan convinces him to come here. T minus 28 hours to go and the Raiders haven't franchised him yet...

To me, he's the jewel of the FA market if he's available.

 

[DawgPoundNJ]

Is anybody else hoping the Browns make putting a huge offer on the table for Haynesworth a top priority?

Haven't thought too much about Haynesworth, but yeah, he'd be nice.I am crossing my fingers that the Raiders don't franchise Nnamdi Asomugha and Rob Ryan convinces him to come here. T minus 28 hours to go and the Raiders haven't franchised him yet...

To me, he's the jewel of the FA market if he's available.

Oh well. From Rotoworld, 8:02PM:

Raiders agreed to terms with P Shane Lechler on a four-year, $12 million contract.Lechler, 33, led the league in net average, net yards, and put the third most punts inside his opponents' 20-yard line last season. Punters can go strong well into their 30s, so Lechler shouldn't have trouble playing out his new deal.

That makes officially zero chance they don't franchise Asomugha. All they have to do is cut a combo of Curry, Kwame Harris, and/or Javon Walker to get under the cap.

 

[Tecumseh]

Is anybody else hoping the Browns make putting a huge offer on the table for Haynesworth a top priority?

Haven't thought too much about Haynesworth, but yeah, he'd be nice.I am crossing my fingers that the Raiders don't franchise Nnamdi Asomugha and Rob Ryan convinces him to come here. T minus 28 hours to go and the Raiders haven't franchised him yet...

:whoosh: To me, he's the jewel of the FA market if he's available.

Oh well. From Rotoworld, 8:02PM:

Raiders agreed to terms with P Shane Lechler on a four-year, $12 million contract.Lechler, 33, led the league in net average, net yards, and put the third most punts inside his opponents' 20-yard line last season. Punters can go strong well into their 30s, so Lechler shouldn't have trouble playing out his new deal.

That makes officially zero chance they don't franchise Asomugha. All they have to do is cut a combo of Curry, Kwame Harris, and/or Javon Walker to get under the cap.

Damn. Trade Braylon for him then. And Winslow. And Quinn. And anyone else not named Thomas or Rogers.

 

[eric rymer]

Is anybody else hoping the Browns make putting a huge offer on the table for Haynesworth a top priority?

I hadn't really thought about it that much, but I'm not going to lie. I'd love it. I'm not sure how it would fit and who plays were, but having him beside Rogers and subbing for each other to stay fresh would be a scary sight. Then get a top pass rusher in teh draft and let put some heat on the QB for a change. I'd really love to see some attitude from our defense. Hell I'd sign some of the guys from Mean Machine if I could.

 

[Fallerjw]

Is anybody else hoping the Browns make putting a huge offer on the table for Haynesworth a top priority?

I hadn't really thought about it that much, but I'm not going to lie. I'd love it. I'm not sure how it would fit and who plays were, but having him beside Rogers and subbing for each other to stay fresh would be a scary sight. Then get a top pass rusher in teh draft and let put some heat on the QB for a change. I'd really love to see some attitude from our defense. Hell I'd sign some of the guys from Mean Machine if I could.

The more I think about it, the more I think the Browns need to NOT take a CB in the top 5. When you think of a great defense, do you think of a shut down corner, or do you think of a run stopping, pressure defense? I don't think you can build a dominant defense starting with CB. It would be like building a dominant offense around a WR when you don't have a good QB, O-line or running game.

 

[eric rymer]

Is anybody else hoping the Browns make putting a huge offer on the table for Haynesworth a top priority?

I hadn't really thought about it that much, but I'm not going to lie. I'd love it. I'm not sure how it would fit and who plays were, but having him beside Rogers and subbing for each other to stay fresh would be a scary sight. Then get a top pass rusher in teh draft and let put some heat on the QB for a change. I'd really love to see some attitude from our defense. Hell I'd sign some of the guys from Mean Machine if I could.

The more I think about it, the more I think the Browns need to NOT take a CB in the top 5. When you think of a great defense, do you think of a shut down corner, or do you think of a run stopping, pressure defense? I don't think you can build a dominant defense starting with CB. It would be like building a dominant offense around a WR when you don't have a good QB, O-line or running game.

Exactly. I could not agree more. Even the best corner in the league can only cover a guy for so long. We give opposing QB's WAY too much time to throw. We need to develop a dominant front 7 and our corners will look better. Just from the mocks I've seen there are a couple corners that have fallen lately. If we need one bad enough after free agency then we can look to add later in the draft. Jenkins is a great corner, but the reports I've seen lately puts him as a potential safety. Don't get me wrong though because we need help in the secondary too (I am not a fan of McDonald). But, I'd prefer D-Line and LB help first.

 

[eric rymer]

well we can take Aso off of our wish list.

link

 

[DawgPoundNJ]

well we can take Aso off of our wish list.

link

As they say in the oil business, "Oh well."I wanted him but in the AFC North it's all about pass rush and stopping the run. A good pass rush will make Wright and McDonald look better than they are. Heck, it worked for Champ Bailey most of his career.

 

[wadegarrett]

Cleveland Browns have eyes on New York Giants RB Derrick Ward

by Tony Grossi/Plain Dealer Reporter

Friday February 20, 2009, 11:20 AM

INDIANAPOLIS -- Browns coach Eric Mangini doesn't say much, so when he does say something definitive, it bears noting.

In a morning meeting with Northeast Ohio reporters, Mangini indicated strong interest in Giants free agent running back Derrick Ward.

Ward recently said on Jim Rome Is Burning that the Browns would be a team he would like to play for.

"He's a guy we'd look at," Mangini said. "I can tell you there's a lot of free agents we're looking at."

Ward rushed for 1,025 yards for the Giants in 2008, joining Brandon Jacobs as only the third pair of running back teammates to go over 1,000 yards in the same season. Ward is 5-11 and 228 pounds and will be 29 in August.

 

[Fallerjw]

Cleveland Browns have eyes on New York Giants RB Derrick Ward

by Tony Grossi/Plain Dealer Reporter

Friday February 20, 2009, 11:20 AM

INDIANAPOLIS -- Browns coach Eric Mangini doesn't say much, so when he does say something definitive, it bears noting.

In a morning meeting with Northeast Ohio reporters, Mangini indicated strong interest in Giants free agent running back Derrick Ward.

Ward recently said on Jim Rome Is Burning that the Browns would be a team he would like to play for.

"He's a guy we'd look at," Mangini said. "I can tell you there's a lot of free agents we're looking at."

Ward rushed for 1,025 yards for the Giants in 2008, joining Brandon Jacobs as only the third pair of running back teammates to go over 1,000 yards in the same season. Ward is 5-11 and 228 pounds and will be 29 in August.

I'm not real excited about bringing in a 29 year old RB, but what do I know.

 

[eric rymer]

Cleveland Browns have eyes on New York Giants RB Derrick Ward

by Tony Grossi/Plain Dealer Reporter

Friday February 20, 2009, 11:20 AM

INDIANAPOLIS -- Browns coach Eric Mangini doesn't say much, so when he does say something definitive, it bears noting.

In a morning meeting with Northeast Ohio reporters, Mangini indicated strong interest in Giants free agent running back Derrick Ward.

Ward recently said on Jim Rome Is Burning that the Browns would be a team he would like to play for.

"He's a guy we'd look at," Mangini said. "I can tell you there's a lot of free agents we're looking at."

Ward rushed for 1,025 yards for the Giants in 2008, joining Brandon Jacobs as only the third pair of running back teammates to go over 1,000 yards in the same season. Ward is 5-11 and 228 pounds and will be 29 in August.

I'm not real excited about bringing in a 29 year old RB, but what do I know.

I am not real big on it either. I'd prefer getting Harrison more involved to bringing in Ward. No knock to Ward, but I just don't think it's a great fit. :X

 

[Bankerguy]

Can I get a few opinions on Sean Jones.

 

[DawgPoundNJ]

To catch up:

I'm not so much excited on Derrick Ward either. I think he was more of a product of the stellar line play of the Giants rather than talent. That said, for a 29 year old he does not have that much milage on the legs.

In my world, we get an extra second rounder for Derek Anderson of which we use on Shonn Greene. Harrison becomes the 3rd down back. That changes is Mangini/Kokinis think enough of Jamal Lewis to keep him around.

As for Sean Jones, I think he's a great talent that would look a heck of a lot better with some consistent pass rush up front.

 

[DawgPoundNJ]

Well, our potential trade value for the #5 pick just took a bit of a blow.

Source: Crabtree shelved 6-10 weeksJohn ClaytonESPN.com INDIANAPOLIS -- Teams waiting to draft Texas Tech receiver Michael Crabtree will have to wait six to 10 weeks longer to see how fast he can run a 40-yard dash.Crabtree, according to a source, has the beginning stages of a stress fracture in his left foot that will require a screw to be surgically inserted to stabilize that area of the foot. The fracture was discovered during a bone scan conducted Friday during the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. The scan revealed a slight crack in the fifth metatarsal bone in his left foot. The fracture, according to a source, was so slight he could have opted not to have surgery, but there was the possibility that the crack would get worse had the screw not been inserted.Though not considered serious, the injury will prevent him from running for a six to 10 weeks. According to a source, Crabtree plans to take the conservative approach and try to be ready in 10 weeks. Crabtree, who had not scheduled the surgery as of early Saturday afternoon, had been considered the top wide receiver in the 2009 draft. Because he's an underclassman, teams looking to draft him don't have accurate times in the 40-yard dash and shuttles to help with their evaluation process. Now, those interested teams will have to rely on tapes from his games over the past two seasons.Crabtree, who suffered a right ankle injury late last season that had not completely healed, was not planning to run at the combine, preferring to wait until his pro timing day in March.In 2008, Jonathan Stewart, a first-round talent, ran at the combine despite a bad turf toe. The injury didn't get better and the running back out of Oregon required surgery. Stewart, despite the surgery and not being healthy for teams around the draft, went in the first round to the Carolina Panthers.John Clayton is a senior NFL writer for ESPN.com.

 

[Bankerguy]

To catch up:I'm not so much excited on Derrick Ward either. I think he was more of a product of the stellar line play of the Giants rather than talent. That said, for a 29 year old he does not have that much milage on the legs.In my world, we get an extra second rounder for Derek Anderson of which we use on Shonn Greene. Harrison becomes the 3rd down back. That changes is Mangini/Kokinis think enough of Jamal Lewis to keep him around.As for Sean Jones, I think he's a great talent that would look a heck of a lot better with some consistent pass rush up front.

Thanks.I'm interested from a Dallas perspective, but wanting to know if Jones is more of a ball hawk then stopping Safety.Would he compliment a Ken Hamlin or be the same guy etc? What are his strengths?What parts of his game are needing improvement?

 

[Fallerjw]

Well, our potential trade value for the #5 pick just took a bit of a blow.

Source: Crabtree shelved 6-10 weeksJohn ClaytonESPN.com INDIANAPOLIS -- Teams waiting to draft Texas Tech receiver Michael Crabtree will have to wait six to 10 weeks longer to see how fast he can run a 40-yard dash.Crabtree, according to a source, has the beginning stages of a stress fracture in his left foot that will require a screw to be surgically inserted to stabilize that area of the foot. The fracture was discovered during a bone scan conducted Friday during the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. The scan revealed a slight crack in the fifth metatarsal bone in his left foot. The fracture, according to a source, was so slight he could have opted not to have surgery, but there was the possibility that the crack would get worse had the screw not been inserted.Though not considered serious, the injury will prevent him from running for a six to 10 weeks. According to a source, Crabtree plans to take the conservative approach and try to be ready in 10 weeks. Crabtree, who had not scheduled the surgery as of early Saturday afternoon, had been considered the top wide receiver in the 2009 draft. Because he's an underclassman, teams looking to draft him don't have accurate times in the 40-yard dash and shuttles to help with their evaluation process. Now, those interested teams will have to rely on tapes from his games over the past two seasons.Crabtree, who suffered a right ankle injury late last season that had not completely healed, was not planning to run at the combine, preferring to wait until his pro timing day in March.In 2008, Jonathan Stewart, a first-round talent, ran at the combine despite a bad turf toe. The injury didn't get better and the running back out of Oregon required surgery. Stewart, despite the surgery and not being healthy for teams around the draft, went in the first round to the Carolina Panthers.John Clayton is a senior NFL writer for ESPN.com.

I don't necessarily agree with that. I think it's very possible that in the next 2 months several teams in the 10 - 20 range, realize that they might have a legit shot at Crabtree at pick 5. It could be a team that was one playmaker away from a playoff run, and makes the move. I don't think we lost our chance, but maybe gained a different sort of chance.I'll be very interested to see how the LBs / DEs look during the combine. I hope that between the FA signing period and the draft we can get at least 2 playmakers in the front 7. I think that will be critical to the playoff hopes of the team this year.

 

[MAC_32]

Is anybody else hoping the Browns make putting a huge offer on the table for Haynesworth a top priority?

I think our $ would be better spent elsewhere...and, no, Derrick Ward does not qualify as 'elsewhere.'

 

[Fallerjw]

Is anybody else hoping the Browns make putting a huge offer on the table for Haynesworth a top priority?

I think our $ would be better spent elsewhere...and, no, Derrick Ward does not qualify as 'elsewhere.'

Give me some examples? I'm trying to think of a more pressing need than a dominant front 7 for this team.

 

[MAC_32]

Is anybody else hoping the Browns make putting a huge offer on the table for Haynesworth a top priority?

I think our $ would be better spent elsewhere...and, no, Derrick Ward does not qualify as 'elsewhere.'

Give me some examples? I'm trying to think of a more pressing need than a dominant front 7 for this team.

I have my doubts about him playing up to his 07 and 08 level when he's not playing for a new contract. Between Corey Williams and Shaun Rogers we already have a lot of money tied up on the line, I think both Smith's are adequate in secondary roles. Another one like them and a healthy season from Williams and I think we will be fine on the line. If we're going to spend money I want it to be at LB, we need a lot of help there./

 

[Fallerjw]

Is anybody else hoping the Browns make putting a huge offer on the table for Haynesworth a top priority?

I think our $ would be better spent elsewhere...and, no, Derrick Ward does not qualify as 'elsewhere.'

Give me some examples? I'm trying to think of a more pressing need than a dominant front 7 for this team.

I have my doubts about him playing up to his 07 and 08 level when he's not playing for a new contract. Between Corey Williams and Shaun Rogers we already have a lot of money tied up on the line, I think both Smith's are adequate in secondary roles. Another one like them and a healthy season from Williams and I think we will be fine on the line. If we're going to spend money I want it to be at LB, we need a lot of help there./

That's a solid point, however, I don't see the impact player available at that position. I know this it a total pipe dream, but if there's a way we can trade down for 2 first round picks and land Maualuga and Lauranitis, that would be pretty ideal.

 

[wadegarrett]

Can I get a few opinions on Sean Jones.

You probably won't find a better opinion on SJ than what Terry Pluto wrote yesterday for The Plain Dealer...

The Browns wisely declined to tag safety Sean Jones a "franchise" player, meaning he'd be paid about $6.3 million. Instead, he will be a free agent at the end of the month. The more I watch Jones, the less I know about him -- other than he seems very average. When healthy, he's a strong tackler against the run. But he had knee surgery early last season, missing four games and that seemed to cost him mobility. He never was an asset on pass coverage. After four seasons and 60 games with the Browns, is there any reason to think Jones will be anything more than just OK? How much salary cap do you commit to Jones? In my mind, not a lot. The biggest argument in favor of keeping Jones is the Browns have no one else to take his spot. In 2007, he was on the field for 98 percent of the snaps. He played every game in his first three seasons, before 2008. He is reliable and a solid locker-room guy. But the safety combination of Jones and Brodney Pool was nearly as much of a problem in the secondary as young cornerbacks Eric Wright and Brandon McDonald last season. They certainly didn't seem to give those kids on the corner a lot of help -- and Jones has especially been vulnerable defending tight ends over the years. Most fans know the Browns are in desperate need of linebackers for the 3-4 defense. They also could use a veteran cornerback to help Wright and McDonald. But what could really upgrade the defense is a playmaking safety, something the Browns have lacked since returning in 1999. Browns safety Brodney Pool has had flashes of accomplishment, but like too many other Browns defenders, there just hasn't been enough consistency to make his job status secure, says Terry Pluto.A quick look at the leaders in interceptions for 2008 revealed that only five players picked off more than five passes last season: Ed Reed (Ravens), Nick Collins (Packers), Michael Griffin (Titans), Troy Polamalu (Steelers) and Charles Woodson (Packers). The only non-safety is Woodson. If the Browns can sign Jones to a reasonable contract like the $2.4 million deal that he had last season -- that makes sense. But if some team wants to throw a lot of money at Jones, wish him the best and shop for someone else.

 

[wadegarrett]

NFL's big on Beanie: Ohio State's Wells doesn't need 40 time to win pro scouts' admiration

by Mary Kay Cabot/Plain Dealer Reporter

Sunday February 22, 2009, 10:47 PM

INDIANAPOLIS -- Ohio State running back Chris "Beanie" Wells is a player the Browns are considering with the No. 5 overall pick, and his solid workout at the NFL Scouting Combine Sunday probably did nothing to dissuade them.

"Obviously, we've got a [junior] down south that's local, and we're gonna take a look at him in terms of how he can help our football team," said Browns GM George Kokinis.

Wells, an Akron native, admitted it would be a dream for him to play for his hometown team.

"That would be beautiful, to be able to stay home and play," Wells said Friday in the media room at Lucas Oil Stadium. "But it's a dream already for me to have the opportunity to play in the NFL. Me playing for the Browns, that would be just blessed."

Wells, (6-1, 235) didn't run the 40 as fast he had hoped -- a 4.59 -- but several coaches and scouts said that's about what you'd expect for a player his size. What impressed was his 10'-8" in the broad jump -- second-best at any position at the Combine so far.

Scouts said he also had a good vertical jump, although results were not immediately available.

"What the 40 tells me with running backs is go check the tape again," said NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock. "With Beanie Wells, there's explosion. He had one of the best, if not the best, broad jumps. He had a good vertical jump. He has lower body explosion, but he isn't going to run away from a corner that runs a 4.3. What he will do is run over that corner, hopefully, and stay healthy because that's his biggest issue."

One NFL running backs coach said teams and analysts are making too much of Wells' durability. He played with a wrist injury in 2007 and sat out three games in 2008 with a toe injury -- the only missed games of his career.

"People should be looking at the fact that he played hurt instead of the fact that he missed a few games," said the coach. "Beanie Wells is a tremendous competitor. He's a big man, he runs big and he plays big. He's got everything you'd want in a power back."

Another NFL offensive assistant said, "Beanie Wells is the type of back who's going to rush for 1,100 or 1,200 yards a year. He wants to do it in Cleveland. The Browns should draft him and let him help make the Browns into a winner."

One AFC scout said, "The Browns have passed on LaDainian Tomlinson and Adrian Peterson. If they have the chance to pick Beanie Wells, they should consider it. He's going to be a very successful back in the NFL."

Rob Rang, draft analyst for nfldraftscout.com, said Wells' 40 time was comparable to his main competitor to be the first back picked, Georgia's Knowshon Moreno. Moreno, who's about 5-10, 215, was clocked at an unofficial time of 4.55 and 4.63.

"Moreno ran even slower at a lighter weight," said Rang. "That was one of the questions about both of these players is that they lack that top-end speed. But you can see on film that they're both dynamic players. If you go down the NFL record books, not every top back had top-end speed."

Rang said Wells would be a good pick at No. 5.

"He has a blend of size and power that scouts rarely see," he said. "On film, he's fast and he's elusive and he can break away from guys who are 30 pounds lighter than him. For Cleveland, it makes so much sense, not only because of the local ties, but he can be a true bellcow back no matter quarterback they use. Then, of course, there's the fact that Jamal Lewis [who will turn 30 on Aug. 6] is aging."

Heading into the Combine, ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. said Wells' time in the 40 would determine his spot in the first round. He predicted a 4.38 to 4.42 might land him in the top 10 to top 15, while a 4.48 to 4.5 could cause him to fall to Philadelphia at No. 21.

"I'm a competitor," Wells said Friday. "I can go out there at 235 and I can run with the little guys. I can run with the best of them."

I think Kiper's on crack if he thinks Wells is going to drop as far as 21.

 

[Bankerguy]

Thanks Wade...great stuff.

 

[amnesiac]

thought this was an interesting quote from Mangini:

Declined to confirm that a pass rusher is the team's top need in the draft. "I would never draft a guy that's [just] a pass rusher, or a guy that's [just] a cover corner or [just] a box safety," he said. "If that's all they do, then teams run against pass rushers, they throw against box safeties, and they force cover corners to tackle. So I'm looking to draft complete football players."

does this mean Curry if he's available at their pick?

 

[Dr. Octopus]

thought this was an interesting quote from Mangini:

Declined to confirm that a pass rusher is the team's top need in the draft.

"I would never draft a guy that's [just] a pass rusher, or a guy that's [just] a cover corner or [just] a box safety," he said. "If that's all they do, then teams run against pass rushers, they throw against box safeties, and they force cover corners to tackle. So I'm looking to draft complete football players."

does this mean Curry if he's available at their pick?

ummm....does the name Vernon Gholsten sound familiar?