Mort: Broncos interested in Jamal Lewis (1 Viewer)

[SammyJankis]

Chris Mortensen was on Sportscenter last night discussing the current state of the CBA negotitations. Toward the end of the interview, Mort was asked about some free agent destinations (assuming the CBA gets resolved). The discussion was short, but Mort mentioned that if the CBA gets resolved, the Broncos would be expected to pursue both Terrell Owens and Jamal Lewis. The closing comment was which player the Broncos would have more interest in and Mort said Jamal Lewis because he was a perfect fit for their style of offense.

As a Jamal Lewis owner in two dynasty leagues, the thought of Lewis on the Broncos is

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Wake me up when there's a RB the Broncos AREN'T interested in, then we'll have some news.

 

[Keys Myaths]

Well, when Denver's had a confirmed, starting RB...that RB has been absolutely deadly.

It's a rumor, but one you need to take a hard look at right now. Jamal's value would skyrocket if this happened.

 

[stbugs]

I can't see this move making any sense. Seems to me that they could get a younger, better and probably cheaper RB in the 1st round of the draft. Reggie Bush will be signing a huge deal, but a late 1st round pick is much, much cheaper.

After Jamal's last year, I wouldn't risk the amount of money that he wants to get paid. I still think the 2000 yard season was a fluke and is far and away better than anything a team might get from him. Sign a good rookie, not a Maurice Clarett and spend the rest of the money on defense. Their passing defense has folded 3 years in a row in the playoffs.

 

[Warpig]

I can't see this move making any sense. Seems to me that they could get a younger, better and probably cheaper RB in the 1st round of the draft. Reggie Bush will be signing a huge deal, but a late 1st round pick is much, much cheaper.

After Jamal's last year, I wouldn't risk the amount of money that he wants to get paid. I still think the 2000 yard season was a fluke and is far and away better than anything a team might get from him. Sign a good rookie, not a Maurice Clarett and spend the rest of the money on defense. Their passing defense has folded 3 years in a row in the playoffs.

Jamal is only 26 or 27 years old and he doesn't have a whole lot of wear and tear since he's injured alot and because Chester got his carries/catches. If Jamal can stay healthy and does indeed end up in Denver...oh the possibilities! Yep...I own Jamal...got him fairly cheap too.

 

[ooofffaaa]

So I guess if the asking price is too much in regards to Lewis we can expect one of the following news reports to come out of Denver today . . .

- Jamal has recently failed a drug test even though this is confidential information.

- Jamal kicked his dog in 1999

- Jamal is not a nice person

 

[BigTex]

A major reason the Ravens didn't use the franchise tag on running back Jamal Lewis - which keeps a player off the free-agent market with a one-year contract - is the unwanted tension that it brings. Players who receive the tag often skip minicamps and training camp in protest. "Franchising tends to not be a productive situation, so you try to avoid it if you can," said Billick, who still holds hope that the Ravens can re-sign Lewis.

 

[Tom Servo]

A major reason the Ravens didn't use the franchise tag on running back Jamal Lewis - which keeps a player off the free-agent market with a one-year contract - is the unwanted tension that it brings. Players who receive the tag often skip minicamps and training camp in protest. "Franchising tends to not be a productive situation, so you WE try to avoid it if you WE can," said Billick, who still holds hope that the Ravens don't look foolish for not resigning can re-sign Lewis.

FIXED.

 

[diesel7982]

I can't see this move making any sense. Seems to me that they could get a younger, better and probably cheaper RB in the 1st round of the draft. Reggie Bush will be signing a huge deal, but a late 1st round pick is much, much cheaper.

After Jamal's last year, I wouldn't risk the amount of money that he wants to get paid. I still think the 2000 yard season was a fluke and is far and away better than anything a team might get from him. Sign a good rookie, not a Maurice Clarett and spend the rest of the money on defense. Their passing defense has folded 3 years in a row in the playoffs.

Jamal is only 26 or 27 years old and he doesn't have a whole lot of wear and tear since he's injured alot and because Chester got his carries/catches. If Jamal can stay healthy and does indeed end up in Denver...oh the possibilities! Yep...I own Jamal...got him fairly cheap too.

Thats a confusing statement. Your opinion is 2 torn ACLs and a bad ankle are good for his overall longevity?

 

[lod2005]

Jamal Lewis!

OH....YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[msommer]

I can't see this move making any sense. Seems to me that they could get a younger, better and probably cheaper RB in the 1st round of the draft. Reggie Bush will be signing a huge deal, but a late 1st round pick is much, much cheaper.

After Jamal's last year, I wouldn't risk the amount of money that he wants to get paid. I still think the 2000 yard season was a fluke and is far and away better than anything a team might get from him. Sign a good rookie, not a Maurice Clarett and spend the rest of the money on defense. Their passing defense has folded 3 years in a row in the playoffs.

Jamal is only 26 or 27 years old and he doesn't have a whole lot of wear and tear since he's injured alot and because Chester got his carries/catches. If Jamal can stay healthy and does indeed end up in Denver...oh the possibilities! Yep...I own Jamal...got him fairly cheap too.

Thats a confusing statement. Your opinion is 2 torn ACLs and a bad ankle are good for his overall longevity?

 

[Warhogs]

Seems to be a lot of hopeful jamal Lewis owners here. Maybe he can rebound but I am very concerned after how he looked last year. I would take a chance on Jamal as a RB#2 but no way would I pay a premium price for Lewis no matter where he ends up next year.

 

[Ghost Rider]

After Jamal's last year, I wouldn't risk the amount of money that he wants to get paid. I still think the 2000 yard season was a fluke and is far and away better than anything a team might get from him. Sign a good rookie, not a Maurice Clarett and spend the rest of the money on defense. Their passing defense has folded 3 years in a row in the playoffs.

I agree. The last three playoff losses can be largely attributed to the passing defense not playing well in the playoff loss. No pass rush, opposing receivers open all day, etc.

 

[P Boy]

Jamal is only 26 or 27 years old and he doesn't have a whole lot of wear and tear since he's injured alot and because Chester got his carries/catches. If Jamal can stay healthy...

Huh? He doesn't have wear & tear because he's injured a lot, and that's a benefit???Lewis would look good in a DEN uniform, but he's going to have to be prepared to come cheap. DEN doesn't have a ton of cap room & they have 2 first rounders to sign. Lewis has been making noise like he is going to get big $$$ (probably because he's going to try to ply on his 2000+ yd season, but his injuries are going to ruin his negotiating power) but I'm not seeing it with Edge & possibly Williams out there amongst other FAs, and the incoming rookie class being very solid as well as his injury history.

 

[P Boy]

I can't see this move making any sense. Seems to me that they could get a younger, better and probably cheaper RB in the 1st round of the draft. Reggie Bush will be signing a huge deal, but a late 1st round pick is much, much cheaper.

After Jamal's last year, I wouldn't risk the amount of money that he wants to get paid. I still think the 2000 yard season was a fluke and is far and away better than anything a team might get from him. Sign a good rookie, not a Maurice Clarett and spend the rest of the money on defense. Their passing defense has folded 3 years in a row in the playoffs.

Jamal is only 26 or 27 years old and he doesn't have a whole lot of wear and tear since he's injured alot and because Chester got his carries/catches. If Jamal can stay healthy and does indeed end up in Denver...oh the possibilities! Yep...I own Jamal...got him fairly cheap too.

Thats a confusing statement. Your opinion is 2 torn ACLs and a bad ankle are good for his overall longevity?

You missed his dislocated elbow his rookie year, too.

 

[stbugs]

I can't see this move making any sense. Seems to me that they could get a younger, better and probably cheaper RB in the 1st round of the draft. Reggie Bush will be signing a huge deal, but a late 1st round pick is much, much cheaper.

After Jamal's last year, I wouldn't risk the amount of money that he wants to get paid. I still think the 2000 yard season was a fluke and is far and away better than anything a team might get from him. Sign a good rookie, not a Maurice Clarett and spend the rest of the money on defense. Their passing defense has folded 3 years in a row in the playoffs.

Jamal is only 26 or 27 years old and he doesn't have a whole lot of wear and tear since he's injured alot and because Chester got his carries/catches. If Jamal can stay healthy and does indeed end up in Denver...oh the possibilities! Yep...I own Jamal...got him fairly cheap too.

Not disputing the age and the other guys already noted the injury issue. The problem is that I don't think Jamal will come cheap, like you got him in FF. In the NFL, I think that Baltimore is still willing to pay Jamal a good bit of money and so I would rather get a RB in the 1st round (Williams/Maroney) that some might say are better than Jamal and who will probably be cheaper.I think of Jamal kind of like Roger Maris. That one great season tends to bring his name up a lot, but I wouldn't consider Maris among the all time greats, let alone the best player on his team. Jamal had one great season, but even up until his horrendous 2005, people always listed him among the stud RBs.

 

[ViG]

I wouldn't go for either. Lewis hasn't done anything for 2 years and TO is guaranteed trouble. He was in the perfect place in Philly and still fell out with the team. Denver is the same again. Good team that, if they get a couple of injuries and lose a couple of games, he will decimate.

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

If Jamal goes to Denver healthy and motivated he could run for 3000 yards in that offense.

 

[Footballhead]

I still think the 2000 yard season was a fluke and is far and away better than anything a team might get from him.

He gained 500yds+ vs the Browns alone that year.

 

[B-Deep]

If Jamal goes to Denver healthy and motivated he could run for 3000 yards in that offense.

Jamal seems to need a breather after any run of more than 8 yards, so the high altitude would probably kill him. On the plus side he doesn't have more than a few 8 yard carries a year.Not a jamal fan AT ALL, over rated for sure. BUT, we all know Denver can turn almost anyone into a back. I think Jamal is an above average back that may look pretty damn good in Denver. Of course, it would be the best thing ever if Ron Dayne beat him out for the job!

 

[ViG]

I still think the 2000 yard season was a fluke and is far and away better than anything a team might get from him.

He gained 500yds+ vs the Browns alone that year.

I just can't see it. I think his best is in the past despite him still being young. I dunno why but I have that feeling about him. However, they do need a RB. I've also heard that the Ravens want a 1st rounder for Lewis....Wouldn't give that away as RBs are easy to draft in most cases.

 

[P Boy]

I've also heard that the Ravens want a 1st rounder for Lewis....Wouldn't give that away as RBs are easy to draft in most cases.

I believe that you have the wrong Lewis there, my friend.BAL wants a 1st rounder for Ray Ray. Jamal is a FA.

 

[Dr. Octopus]

I wouldn't go for either. Lewis hasn't done anything for 2 years and TO is guaranteed trouble. He was in the perfect place in Philly and still fell out with the team. Denver is the same again. Good team that, if they get a couple of injuries and lose a couple of games, he will decimate.

In 2004 he was nicked up by injuries all year and only played in 12 games (1,006 yards and 7 TDs while missing 1/4 of the season isn't too shabby) and this past season he spent the offseason in jail and struggled with injuries as well. So its really only one down year and it was due to injury and personal problems imo.People who say he only had one good year need to look a little closer.

2000 BAL 1364 4.4 6

2002 BAL 1327 4.3 6

2003 BAL 2066 5.3 14

2004 BAL 1006 4.3 7 (in 12 games)

When healthy he produces, in Denver he could be deadly.

 

[ViG]

I've also heard that the Ravens want a 1st rounder for Lewis....Wouldn't give that away as RBs are easy to draft in most cases.

I believe that you have the wrong Lewis there, my friend.BAL wants a 1st rounder for Ray Ray. Jamal is a FA.

Aha! Was a lil confused when I read that on the net - teach me to not read a ful article.In this case Lewis may not be a bad addition.

1st rounder for Ray Ray...not too bad although at 30 years of age (31 next season) that may be a little too much despite how good he is.

 

[Warpig]

Jamal is only 26 or 27 years old and he doesn't have a whole lot of wear and tear since he's injured alot and because Chester got his carries/catches.  If Jamal can stay healthy...

Huh? He doesn't have wear & tear because he's injured a lot, and that's a benefit???Lewis would look good in a DEN uniform, but he's going to have to be prepared to come cheap. DEN doesn't have a ton of cap room & they have 2 first rounders to sign. Lewis has been making noise like he is going to get big $$$ (probably because he's going to try to ply on his 2000+ yd season, but his injuries are going to ruin his negotiating power) but I'm not seeing it with Edge & possibly Williams out there amongst other FAs, and the incoming rookie class being very solid as well as his injury history.

I'm not calling it a benefit. Just stating the fact that he's not like a Ricky Williams or Eddie George or Edgerrin James that would average approx 350+ carries a year. Sure he's had injury concerns but so have alot of good runningbacks. Edge has had his ACL blown out and is a year or two older with more wear. Willis McGahee (who everyone is high on) has had his issues with knee tears. Deuce McAllister is another one...I could go on and on. I'm not denying Jamal has more than his fair share of on and off the field issues. But am I wrong in stating that if he were to go to Denver healthy and willing to dedicate himself, that he would be a top 5 RB candidate? And did anyone think he's making noise about wanting a fat paycheck to scare Baltimore away from signing him? If I were Jamal and had the option of playing almost anywhere else or Baltimore with an inept passing game and dwindling defense, I'd be making noise too. I think he'd be willing to sign an incentive laden contract someplace that was cap friendly. I don't think any of these FA's are gonna get the money they were hoping for.

 

[joffer]

don't see it happening, but if it did, he could put up some downright scary fantasy numbers in that system.

 

[stbugs]

Jamal is only 26 or 27 years old and he doesn't have a whole lot of wear and tear since he's injured alot and because Chester got his carries/catches.  If Jamal can stay healthy...

Huh? He doesn't have wear & tear because he's injured a lot, and that's a benefit???Lewis would look good in a DEN uniform, but he's going to have to be prepared to come cheap. DEN doesn't have a ton of cap room & they have 2 first rounders to sign. Lewis has been making noise like he is going to get big $$$ (probably because he's going to try to ply on his 2000+ yd season, but his injuries are going to ruin his negotiating power) but I'm not seeing it with Edge & possibly Williams out there amongst other FAs, and the incoming rookie class being very solid as well as his injury history.

I'm not calling it a benefit. Just stating the fact that he's not like a Ricky Williams or Eddie George or Edgerrin James that would average approx 350+ carries a year. Sure he's had injury concerns but so have alot of good runningbacks. Edge has had his ACL blown out and is a year or two older with more wear. Willis McGahee (who everyone is high on) has had his issues with knee tears. Deuce McAllister is another one...I could go on and on. I'm not denying Jamal has more than his fair share of on and off the field issues. But am I wrong in stating that if he were to go to Denver healthy and willing to dedicate himself, that he would be a top 5 RB candidate? And did anyone think he's making noise about wanting a fat paycheck to scare Baltimore away from signing him? If I were Jamal and had the option of playing almost anywhere else or Baltimore with an inept passing game and dwindling defense, I'd be making noise too. I think he'd be willing to sign an incentive laden contract someplace that was cap friendly. I don't think any of these FA's are gonna get the money they were hoping for.

If the CBA gets extended and the cap goes up, there is no way he would be satisfied with an incentive laden contract, no way at all. Alexander is gone and if the cap goes up, Edge could stay in Indy and then Jamal is the #1 FA RB left. I personally don't think he is good enough for the money he will demand and probably get. The NFL is all about potential and as a former #5 overall draft pick and 2000 yard rusher, he probably will get paid more than he is worth.

 

[Warpig]

If the CBA gets extended and the cap goes up, there is no way he would be satisfied with an incentive laden contract, no way at all. Alexander is gone and if the cap goes up, Edge could stay in Indy and then Jamal is the #1 FA RB left. I personally don't think he is good enough for the money he will demand and probably get. The NFL is all about potential and as a former #5 overall draft pick and 2000 yard rusher, he probably will get paid more than he is worth.

I agree with this. But the CBA has to get extended first.

 

[Crippler]

I guess these rumors would end the John Abraham talks I would assume. I feel Abraham would help this team more than Owens or Lewis.

 

[Warhogs]

I am curious since this is generating discussion about how much a trade to Denver would vault his value. Where does everybody rank him today and how high do you think you would rank him if he landed in Denver? Is he #15 now and he is #8 to you in Denver?

Edit to add: I assume that those who think his value takes a big jump either rate him really low currently or project him into the top 5 or 6 RB should he land in Denver.

 

[Texasmouth]

Please tell me Jamal will not end up in Denver. He rushed for 2000 yards one time, what will he get in Denver where average backs get 1500?

Jamal in Denver= 4000 yards runshing.......LOL

 

[stbugs]

Please tell me Jamal will not end up in Denver. He rushed for 2000 yards one time, what will he get in Denver where average backs get 1500?

Jamal in Denver= 4000 yards runshing.......LOL

This is exactly the type of quote I love about Jamal. In 27 games in 2004/2005, he had less than 2000 yards rushing total, but people think he will do better than Terrell Davis or Clinton Portis.When recent history and previous history point to Lewis' 2003 season being a blip on the radar, it amazes me how much people ignore the other 5 years of his career.

Also, if Denver is such a "system" thing, why would the same coach that didn't want to pay Portis so much, be willing to pony up big bucks for Lewis, who at this point is not nearly as good? Especially when it has been the pass defense that has lost their playoff games the last 3 years.

 

[Texasmouth]

Please tell me Jamal will not end up in Denver. He rushed for 2000 yards one time, what will he get in Denver where average backs get 1500?

Jamal in Denver= 4000 yards runshing.......LOL

This is exactly the type of quote I love about Jamal. In 27 games in 2004/2005, he had less than 2000 yards rushing total, but people think he will do better than Terrell Davis or Clinton Portis.When recent history and previous history point to Lewis' 2003 season being a blip on the radar, it amazes me how much people ignore the other 5 years of his career.

Also, if Denver is such a "system" thing, why would the same coach that didn't want to pay Portis so much, be willing to pony up big bucks for Lewis, who at this point is not nearly as good? Especially when it has been the pass defense that has lost their playoff games the last 3 years.

First off, it was of course a joke, sorry that you dont understand sarcasm...... Second, who knows what Lewis is asking for money wise. With all the teams being so cap strapped, maybe he would be affordable.

Who knows what Lewis could do on a good team. Take a look at the supporting cast Lewis had. The one season that that did so well, he had Trent Dilfer at QB. Boller, Tony Banks, Anthony Wright, Chris Redman, and no wide receivers to speak of until last year and then who would throw to them? The offensive line was awful. How many times do you think Lewis got to touch the ball without having 10 men, the coach, waterboy and mascot in the box?

Jamal could do really well in a decent system, we have yet to see him in one.

 

[pinequick]

I know the 2000-yd season makes Lewis exceptional, but is anybody else worried that perhaps he has lost "it"?

If he had *any* season in which he should have been motivated to run hard and look good, it was this past season--he was playing for a contract. I didn't pay too close attention (I don't own him in any leagues), and I know that he was dinged (right?). But when he did play, he didn't look like the same 2000-yard guy, did he?

Of course, Denver can make Olandis Gary look like a stud, so I guess it should be a good fit for him if it happens.

Okay, so I talked myself into it--Lewis would be very good in Denver.

 

[Texasmouth]

I know the 2000-yd season makes Lewis exceptional, but is anybody else worried that perhaps he has lost "it"?

If he had *any* season in which he should have been motivated to run hard and look good, it was this past season--he was playing for a contract. I didn't pay too close attention (I don't own him in any leagues), and I know that he was dinged (right?). But when he did play, he didn't look like the same 2000-yard guy, did he?

Of course, Denver can make Olandis Gary look like a stud, so I guess it should be a good fit for him if it happens.

Okay, so I talked myself into it--Lewis would be very good in Denver.

Read my comments above your post......the situation in Baltimore was awful. It would have been hard for anyone to succeed with that line and Anthony Wright at QB.

 

[pinequick]

Read my comments above your post......the situation in Baltimore was awful. It would have been hard for anyone to succeed with that line and Anthony Wright at QB.

Sure, but it's not like there weren't 10 men in the box with Dilfer under center, either (and Lewis went for 2 G's that season).EDIT: I take that back--wasn't Boller the QB in his 2K season??

 

[Dr. Octopus]

When recent history and previous history point to Lewis' 2003 season being a blip on the radar, it amazes me how much people ignore the other 5 years of his career.

You're the one that seems to be ignoring his other seasons:2000 BAL 1364 4.4 6 2001 DNP2002 BAL 1327 4.3 6 2003 BAL 2066 5.3 142004 BAL 1006 4.3 7 (in 12 games)2005 BAL 906 3.4 3One poor season where he struggled through an ankle injury and being in jail during the offseason. These numbers coming on a team with absolutely no passing game in any of his five seasons.

 

[Texasmouth]

Read my comments above your post......the situation in Baltimore was awful. It would have been hard for anyone to succeed with that line and Anthony Wright at QB.

Sure, but it's not like there weren't 10 men in the box with Dilfer under center, either (and Lewis went for 2 G's that season).EDIT: I take that back--wasn't Boller the QB in his 2K season??

No Boller wasn't the QB then.The offensive line was far better in his 2K season, not to mention the defense was maybe the best in history, leaving him in great positions to succeed every week.

 

[pinequick]

Read my comments above your post......the situation in Baltimore was awful. It would have been hard for anyone to succeed with that line and Anthony Wright at QB.

Sure, but it's not like there weren't 10 men in the box with Dilfer under center, either (and Lewis went for 2 G's that season).EDIT: I take that back--wasn't Boller the QB in his 2K season??

No Boller wasn't the QB then.The offensive line was far better in his 2K season, not to mention the defense was maybe the best in history, leaving him in great positions to succeed every week.

Yes, he was--at least for part of it.JAMAL LEWIS: 2003-04 Baltimore 387carries, 2066 yards, 14 TDs

KYLE BOLLER: 2003-04 Baltimore 116 for 224, 1260 yards, 7 TDs, 9 INTs

The other all-star under center?

ANTHONY WRIGHT: 2003-04 Baltimore 94 for 178, 1199, 9, 8

I'll grant you the O-line and D arguments, but the quarterback situation has remained a constant in Lewis' Baltimore career (constantly sub-par).

 

[Texasmouth]

Read my comments above your post......the situation in Baltimore was awful. It would have been hard for anyone to succeed with that line and Anthony Wright at QB.

Sure, but it's not like there weren't 10 men in the box with Dilfer under center, either (and Lewis went for 2 G's that season).EDIT: I take that back--wasn't Boller the QB in his 2K season??

No Boller wasn't the QB then.The offensive line was far better in his 2K season, not to mention the defense was maybe the best in history, leaving him in great positions to succeed every week.

Yes, he was--at least for part of it.JAMAL LEWIS: 2003-04 Baltimore 387carries, 2066 yards, 14 TDs

KYLE BOLLER: 2003-04 Baltimore 116 for 224, 1260 yards, 7 TDs, 9 INTs

The other all-star under center?

ANTHONY WRIGHT: 2003-04 Baltimore 94 for 178, 1199, 9, 8

I'll grant you the O-line and D arguments, but the quarterback situation has remained a constant in Lewis' Baltimore career (constantly sub-par).

That was Boller's rookie season then, which of course just supports my argument. It is surprising that Lewis has done as good as he has with that supporting cast. That is like Tom Cruise doing a movie with a bunch of carnies as his supporting actors.

 

[stbugs]

When recent history and previous history point to Lewis' 2003 season being a blip on the radar, it amazes me how much people ignore the other 5 years of his career.

You're the one that seems to be ignoring his other seasons:2000 BAL 1364 4.4 6

2001 DNP

2002 BAL 1327 4.3 6

2003 BAL 2066 5.3 14

2004 BAL 1006 4.3 7 (in 12 games)

2005 BAL 906 3.4 3

One poor season where he struggled through an ankle injury and being in jail during the offseason. These numbers coming on a team with absolutely no passing game in any of his five seasons.

Nope. not ignoring those seasons at all. They are good, but 1 ypc difference is a lot. The difference in his 2003 to 2002/2004/2000 is just as big or bigger than the difference between 2002/2004/2000. That means as bad as he was last year, he was that much better in 2003.In 2001, the Ravens had more rushing yards and rushing TDs with a bunch of misfits at RB than they did in 2002 with Lewis. Not saying that the misfits were better, but I don't buy the line that the Ravens OL sucks. Didn't Washington just get Rabach from the Ravens and I remember at the time, he was supposed to be a pretty good upgrade at C. What about Ogden? I thought he was good?

Also, don't forget that he also played on one of the best defensive teams in a long team, which means that the offense probably had an edge in time of possession and the opposing defense was on the field a lot more than the Ravens' defense.

 

[stbugs]

I know the 2000-yd season makes Lewis exceptional, but is anybody else worried that perhaps he has lost "it"?

If he had *any* season in which he should have been motivated to run hard and look good, it was this past season--he was playing for a contract. I didn't pay too close attention (I don't own him in any leagues), and I know that he was dinged (right?). But when he did play, he didn't look like the same 2000-yard guy, did he?

Of course, Denver can make Olandis Gary look like a stud, so I guess it should be a good fit for him if it happens.

Okay, so I talked myself into it--Lewis would be very good in Denver.

I am with you, I think he has lost it. He looked horrendous last year in he free agent to be year. If he still had it, then he cost himself a lot of money.I never said he sucked from 2000-2004, but the 2000 yard thing keeps coming up and I sure haven't seen the 2003 Jamal Lewis in a while.

 

[stbugs]

Read my comments above your post......the situation in Baltimore was awful. It would have been hard for anyone to succeed with that line and Anthony Wright at QB.

Sure, but it's not like there weren't 10 men in the box with Dilfer under center, either (and Lewis went for 2 G's that season).EDIT: I take that back--wasn't Boller the QB in his 2K season??

No Boller wasn't the QB then.The offensive line was far better in his 2K season, not to mention the defense was maybe the best in history, leaving him in great positions to succeed every week.

Yes, he was--at least for part of it.JAMAL LEWIS: 2003-04 Baltimore 387carries, 2066 yards, 14 TDs

KYLE BOLLER: 2003-04 Baltimore 116 for 224, 1260 yards, 7 TDs, 9 INTs

The other all-star under center?

ANTHONY WRIGHT: 2003-04 Baltimore 94 for 178, 1199, 9, 8

I'll grant you the O-line and D arguments, but the quarterback situation has remained a constant in Lewis' Baltimore career (constantly sub-par).

That was Boller's rookie season then, which of course just supports my argument. It is surprising that Lewis has done as good as he has with that supporting cast. That is like Tom Cruise doing a movie with a bunch of carnies as his supporting actors.

Don't forget the defense. Pittsburgh has done quite a bit better in recent years when their defense plays well. Look at NE last year when the defense hit the skids, the running game certainly wasn't on par with 2004.I would liken it to Tom Cruise working with a bunch of carnies as the supporting cast, but having Spielberg as Director and the best camera men/special effects/editors.

 

[TheFanatic]

I can't see this move making any sense. Seems to me that they could get a younger, better and probably cheaper RB in the 1st round of the draft. Reggie Bush will be signing a huge deal, but a late 1st round pick is much, much cheaper.

After Jamal's last year, I wouldn't risk the amount of money that he wants to get paid. I still think the 2000 yard season was a fluke and is far and away better than anything a team might get from him. Sign a good rookie, not a Maurice Clarett and spend the rest of the money on defense. Their passing defense has folded 3 years in a row in the playoffs.

But what if the Broncos go to Jamal and say, "listen, you had a down year last year. You know what the Denver line can do for your stats. We need you to come in cheap on a 1 year deal with incentives. You will be running through huge holes. If you can produce at a high level you will make decent bank this year, but next year you will be getting paid the big nickel either by us or another team after you throw up 1500 yards and 13 TD's."Do you think Jamal could come in all kinds of motivated to tear it up in that situation?

 

[Banger]

I know the 2000-yd season makes Lewis exceptional, but is anybody else worried that perhaps he has lost "it"?

If he had *any* season in which he should have been motivated to run hard and look good, it was this past season--he was playing for a contract.  I didn't pay too close attention (I don't own him in any leagues), and I know that he was dinged (right?).  But when he did play, he didn't look like the same 2000-yard guy, did he?

Of course, Denver can make Olandis Gary look like a stud, so I guess it should be a good fit for him if it happens.

Okay, so I talked myself into it--Lewis would be very good in Denver. 

I am with you, I think he has lost it. He looked horrendous last year in he free agent to be year. If he still had it, then he cost himself a lot of money.I never said he sucked from 2000-2004, but the 2000 yard thing keeps coming up and I sure haven't seen the 2003 Jamal Lewis in a while.

How many 2000 yard backs have you seen since? It's funny how people call it a fluke, it's not as if he broke one long run or something. He dominated nearly every week when every team in the league knew they were going to run it down their throat. I watched every Raven game over the past few years and this year that team totally imploded on both sides of the ball. They were going with Lewis, then switching to Taylor to see what he had and if he was worthy of signing and then back to Lewis. They had no threat of a pass, they faced 8-9 in the box on every offensive snap (with the defense running towards the line), the O-line was horrendous (Jamal usually had to try and elude several defenders before reaching the line of scrimage), they probably led the league in 3 and outs, their defense couldn't get off the field or get a turnover, the play calling was absolutely awful but besides that everything was fine.

You can't ignore the awful situation he's been in the past few years. I haven't seen any RB over the past 10 years that can demolish would be tacklers like he can, he's a bull. Put him on a somewhat balanced offense and he'll be one of the top backs in the league again.

 

[CalBear]

When recent history and previous history point to Lewis' 2003 season being a blip on the radar, it amazes me how much people ignore the other 5 years of his career.

You're the one that seems to be ignoring his other seasons:2000 BAL 1364 4.4 6

2001 DNP

2002 BAL 1327 4.3 6

2003 BAL 2066 5.3 14

2004 BAL 1006 4.3 7 (in 12 games)

2005 BAL 906 3.4 3

One poor season where he struggled through an ankle injury and being in jail during the offseason. These numbers coming on a team with absolutely no passing game in any of his five seasons.

In 2005 the Raven's pass offense was #19 overall, which is hardly "no passing game". And the run offense was #21 overall.

 

[stbugs]

I can't see this move making any sense. Seems to me that they could get a younger, better and probably cheaper RB in the 1st round of the draft. Reggie Bush will be signing a huge deal, but a late 1st round pick is much, much cheaper.

After Jamal's last year, I wouldn't risk the amount of money that he wants to get paid. I still think the 2000 yard season was a fluke and is far and away better than anything a team might get from him. Sign a good rookie, not a Maurice Clarett and spend the rest of the money on defense. Their passing defense has folded 3 years in a row in the playoffs.

But what if the Broncos go to Jamal and say, "listen, you had a down year last year. You know what the Denver line can do for your stats. We need you to come in cheap on a 1 year deal with incentives. You will be running through huge holes. If you can produce at a high level you will make decent bank this year, but next year you will be getting paid the big nickel either by us or another team after you throw up 1500 yards and 13 TD's."Do you think Jamal could come in all kinds of motivated to tear it up in that situation?

No, I don't think Jamal will care about that motivation if someone else offers him more money. I don't think any guy making what he makes now will take a one year deal for less if another team will give him a multiple year deal with more guaranteed money.If the CBA is extended and Edge somehow goes back to Indy, then Jamal is the only marquee FA RB. Look what Jordan got as a career backup, do you think Jamal won't look for something as good?

 

[H.K.]

This one seems pretty simple: If Mike Anderson put up over 1200 total yards and 13 TD's in 15 games in 2005, it would appear a safe bet that Jamal Lewis could do better than that in 2006. eta:....with the Broncos, of course

 

[stbugs]

I know the 2000-yd season makes Lewis exceptional, but is anybody else worried that perhaps he has lost "it"?

If he had *any* season in which he should have been motivated to run hard and look good, it was this past season--he was playing for a contract.  I didn't pay too close attention (I don't own him in any leagues), and I know that he was dinged (right?).  But when he did play, he didn't look like the same 2000-yard guy, did he?

Of course, Denver can make Olandis Gary look like a stud, so I guess it should be a good fit for him if it happens.

Okay, so I talked myself into it--Lewis would be very good in Denver. 

I am with you, I think he has lost it. He looked horrendous last year in he free agent to be year. If he still had it, then he cost himself a lot of money.I never said he sucked from 2000-2004, but the 2000 yard thing keeps coming up and I sure haven't seen the 2003 Jamal Lewis in a while.

How many 2000 yard backs have you seen since? It's funny how people call it a fluke, it's not as if he broke one long run or something. He dominated nearly every week when every team in the league knew they were going to run it down their throat. I watched every Raven game over the past few years and this year that team totally imploded on both sides of the ball. They were going with Lewis, then switching to Taylor to see what he had and if he was worthy of signing and then back to Lewis. They had no threat of a pass, they faced 8-9 in the box on every offensive snap (with the defense running towards the line), the O-line was horrendous (Jamal usually had to try and elude several defenders before reaching the line of scrimage), they probably led the league in 3 and outs, their defense couldn't get off the field or get a turnover, the play calling was absolutely awful but besides that everything was fine.

You can't ignore the awful situation he's been in the past few years. I haven't seen any RB over the past 10 years that can demolish would be tacklers like he can, he's a bull. Put him on a somewhat balanced offense and he'll be one of the top backs in the league again.

I hear you about 2003, but "bulls" that demolish tacklers like Lewis tend to not last as long and tail off quick.You are also correct that there aren't many 2000 yard backs, that is my whole point that 2003 was Lewis' golden year, a full 1 ypc better than his next 3 best years. I don't think that the Lewis of 2005+ will be better than Portis/TD. I think he will be a level below that and to be honest, that to me is not worth what I think Lewis will get in $$$.

Lewis may prove me wrong, but I don't think he is worth the money until he shows me that he can even get back to 2000/2002 form, let alone 2003.

 

[Jason Wood]

Jam's 2003 season was most certainly the anomaly...how anyone can contend otherwise is

http://www.footballguys.com/05spotlight-LewiJa00.php