***OFFICIAL*** Steelers 2012 Thread (1 Viewer)

[matttyl]

Talk of J Stew actually being available via trade....speculation is either Pittsburgh or Denver.

 

[Copeman]

Talk of J Stew actually being available via trade....speculation is either Pittsburgh or Denver.

Where did you hear that? I would welcome it.

 

[matttyl]

Talk of J Stew actually being available via trade....speculation is either Pittsburgh or Denver.

Where did you hear that? I would welcome it.

(Rotoworld) According to Len Pasquarelli of The Sports Xchange, the Panthers will "definitely" listen to trade offers for Jonathan Stewart this offseason. Analysis: After signing Mike Tolbert, the Panthers quickly put out word that Stewart wasn't on the trade block, perhaps for fear of losing leverage. Per Pasquarelli, however, the Steelers could be a "sleeper" to make a run at Stewart, and "everyone" has made the Broncos the favorite to acquire the versatile, 25-year-old back. Pasquarelli does concede "there hasn't been anything serious yet."

 

[The Jerk]

I'm already starting to have a bad feeling about the Steelers this year. It could be the many changes they have made to the team already. It could be the new offensive coordinator. It might just be the egg salad I just ate. I am hoping it's the latter.

I had that feeling all last summer and season, but I'm feeling the complete opposite this time. In my opinion, the only significant 2011 on-field contributor that the Steelers have lost is Farrior. And of course, Hampton and Mendenhall are question marks physically as to when/if they may contribute. But I like the turnover that has occurred. It was clearly needed, perhaps a year too late, and that may be due to the lockout circumstances. In any case, the only potentially critical player personnel loss that may occur is Wallace. Not bad for a team coming off of three 12 win seasons and two Super Bowl appearances out of the past four.I'm curious if Ben truly is maturing as he hits his 30s and becoming more devoted to conditioning and study. I'm excited to watch new leadership emerge among players who may be hungry to win on their watch. And I eagerly anticipate the injection of youth on the defense. There may be never be a pair of Steelers as respected as Smith and Farrior, but when the defense can only get four turnovers through 9 or 10 games, it's probably time for changes, no matter how good the rankings look. There was something missing in terms of play-makers on the defense. A healthy Harrison and Woodley will help the most, but some younger, quicker legs may also be useful.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Talk of J Stew actually being available via trade....speculation is either Pittsburgh or Denver.

Where did you hear that? I would welcome it.

(Rotoworld) According to Len Pasquarelli of The Sports Xchange, the Panthers will "definitely" listen to trade offers for Jonathan Stewart this offseason. Analysis: After signing Mike Tolbert, the Panthers quickly put out word that Stewart wasn't on the trade block, perhaps for fear of losing leverage. Per Pasquarelli, however, the Steelers could be a "sleeper" to make a run at Stewart, and "everyone" has made the Broncos the favorite to acquire the versatile, 25-year-old back. Pasquarelli does concede "there hasn't been anything serious yet."

That's really just Pasquerelli opining "Hey, the Steelers could use Stewart,couldn't they?"Stewart's playing out the last year of his deal, just like Mendenhall is. They've already started intimating that they won't be able to afford an UFA Mendenhall in '13.....so why would they be able to afford Stewart, who will also be an UFA?Not Colbert's MO to trade picks for players either, so I couldn't see them giving any of those up if Carolina wanted them for Stewart. I'm really not buying it. Sounds like the same "Steelers are hot for Tolbert!!!" stuff from last week, that the local media guys quashed within in 24-hours. Anything can happen, but I'll be semi-shocked if they did something like this.

 

[Kenny Powers]

Talk of J Stew actually being available via trade....speculation is either Pittsburgh or Denver.

Where did you hear that? I would welcome it.

(Rotoworld) According to Len Pasquarelli of The Sports Xchange, the Panthers will "definitely" listen to trade offers for Jonathan Stewart this offseason. Analysis: After signing Mike Tolbert, the Panthers quickly put out word that Stewart wasn't on the trade block, perhaps for fear of losing leverage. Per Pasquarelli, however, the Steelers could be a "sleeper" to make a run at Stewart, and "everyone" has made the Broncos the favorite to acquire the versatile, 25-year-old back. Pasquarelli does concede "there hasn't been anything serious yet."

That's really just Pasquerelli opining "Hey, the Steelers could use Stewart,couldn't they?"Stewart's playing out the last year of his deal, just like Mendenhall is. They've already started intimating that they won't be able to afford an UFA Mendenhall in '13.....so why would they be able to afford Stewart, who will also be an UFA?

Why cant they afford a UFA RB next year who underperformed in 2011 and is coming off a torn ACL in 2012 whose production will without a doubt be limited?Are they only going to spend $5M of cap space of the entire backfield or something?!

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Why cant they afford a UFA RB next year who underperformed in 2011 and is coming off a torn ACL in 2012 whose production will without a doubt be limited?

All the restructuring they've done this year to get under the cap is going to have ramifications next year too. Sacrifices will have to come from somewhere and Mendenhall, given his situation/health, is a logical candidate to be cast aside unless he would sign exceptionally cheap. Regardless of Mendenhall, you can be almost certain that Stewart will be asking for more than the Steelers will likely be able to pay for his services in '13. He won't be guaranteed to be coming off a season in which he just missed at least six games and has been rehabbing a ripped ligament for a year. Rashard already is guaranteed of that. Anything can happen and the market can certainly be different any given offseason, but I'd wager as long as Stewart ends '12 in generally good health he is going to be pursued heavily and have a higher asking price than Mendenhall and higher than Pittsburgh can afford(or will want to afford, anyway). From where I sit, Pittsburgh trading for him now would have a high degree of just be renting him for a year.

Are they only going to spend $5M of cap space of the entire backfield or something?!

You mean like they did in 2011? If the numbers I'm seeing are correct, they spent just under that this past season. And that included Spann, Batch and David Johnson. Almost 2 million of that was Rashard, and 2 million's basically what he'll cost this year against the cap too. Given that, I don't think it's a huge leap to expect they'd be aiming to spend about that much on that slot of the roster, whoever it may be filling it, until the cap spikes in '14.

 

[H8fulHuck]

Why cant they afford a UFA RB next year who underperformed in 2011 and is coming off a torn ACL in 2012 whose production will without a doubt be limited?

All the restructuring they've done this year to get under the cap is going to have ramifications next year too. Sacrifices will have to come from somewhere and Mendenhall, given his situation/health, is a logical candidate to be cast aside unless he would sign exceptionally cheap. Regardless of Mendenhall, you can be almost certain that Stewart will be asking for more than the Steelers will likely be able to pay for his services in '13. He won't be guaranteed to be coming off a season in which he just missed at least six games and has been rehabbing a ripped ligament for a year. Rashard already is guaranteed of that. Anything can happen and the market can certainly be different any given offseason, but I'd wager as long as Stewart end '12 in generally good health he is going to be pursued heavily and have a higher asking price than Mendenhall and higher than Pittsburgh can afford(or will want to afford, anyway). For where I sit, Pittsburgh trading for him now would have a high degree of just be renting him for a year.

Agree with you here. Thoughts of getting stewart are sexy and fun, but not feasible. I don't have a list of free agents for next season, but Brown and Sanders come to mind. Need to focus on keeping this in tact along with Wallace. If the Steelers go get someone, I'd prefer bringing in OLine help and roll with what the Steelers can get on the cheap at RB.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Thoughts of getting stewart are sexy and fun, but not feasible.

In a nutshell that's what it boils down to. Or maybe they are technically "feasbile", in that there are scenarios in which it could be pulled off, but they don't make a whole lot of sense from a long-term perspective. Only way it'd really work would be if Stewart would agree to extend at a pretty friendly rate....which I wouldn't expect him to do.

I don't have a list of free agents for next season, but Brown and Sanders come to mind.

All the current RFAs are potential UFAs in '13 if not extended. So, if they all remain Steeler property for the year that's: the two OGs, Lewis, Johnson, Mundy and Wallace. Brown and Sanders both become RFAs, as will C. Butler, Sylvester and Dwyer(I think). There may be others too.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

I'm already starting to have a bad feeling about the Steelers this year. It could be the many changes they have made to the team already. It could be the new offensive coordinator. It might just be the egg salad I just ate. I am hoping it's the latter.

I had that feeling all last summer and season, but I'm feeling the complete opposite this time. In my opinion, the only significant 2011 on-field contributor that the Steelers have lost is Farrior. And of course, Hampton and Mendenhall are question marks physically as to when/if they may contribute. But I like the turnover that has occurred. It was clearly needed, perhaps a year too late, and that may be due to the lockout circumstances. In any case, the only potentially critical player personnel loss that may occur is Wallace. Not bad for a team coming off of three 12 win seasons and two Super Bowl appearances out of the past four.I'm curious if Ben truly is maturing as he hits his 30s and becoming more devoted to conditioning and study. I'm excited to watch new leadership emerge among players who may be hungry to win on their watch. And I eagerly anticipate the injection of youth on the defense. There may be never be a pair of Steelers as respected as Smith and Farrior, but when the defense can only get four turnovers through 9 or 10 games, it's probably time for changes, no matter how good the rankings look. There was something missing in terms of play-makers on the defense. A healthy Harrison and Woodley will help the most, but some younger, quicker legs may also be useful.

Im right there with you. I knew last year was going to be a waste. I was particularly upset after our super bowl loss because I knew that was the last shot for the team as comprised. When no moves were really made and the team was kept in tact but a year older, i had a bad feeling. At this point i dont think we are contenders this season though. I think a real nfl rb is needed with a more balanced O and healthy o-line. The D will be better. The young guys on the d-line and at cb will get a chance to shine now after learning the system.

 

[Leeroy Jenkins]

Where did anybody hint towards not being able to AFFORD a ufa Mendenhall? The way i read things is that they just dont want him back as a football player for the steelers.

 

[Kenny Powers]

Where did anybody hint towards not being able to AFFORD a ufa Mendenhall? The way i read things is that they just dont want him back as a football player for the steelers.

See post 714 and 716...I agree they may not bring him back by choice, but I doubt it will be because of $ unless he runs crazy late this year.

 

[Kenny Powers]

I don't have a list of free agents for next season, but Brown and Sanders come to mind.

All the current RFAs are potential UFAs in '13 if not extended. So, if they all remain Steeler property for the year that's: the two OGs, Lewis, Johnson, Mundy and Wallace. Brown and Sanders both become RFAs, as will C. Butler, Sylvester and Dwyer(I think). There may be others too.

I honestly didnt even realize Crezdon was still on the team.Who knows what happens with Wallace, but besides him Brown and Sanders and Lewis (pending his play this year) are the only real important guys. Sylvester maybe too but I think theyll address ILB with multiple picks in the draft, but he should be cheap regardless.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

William Gay signs with AZ.

link

I know he played better last year, but I am totally ready to move on from William Gay as a starting CB.

 

[Kenny Powers]

Im ready to see Cortez the Killer and Brown get more snaps, not too sad to say Gay go whose most memorable play was getting trucked by AD

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Time for Lewis/Brown/Allen to step up. Lewis was probably going to be starting anyway, so not a debilitating loss.

Say what you want about Gay, and I'm certainly not going to miss him in the starting lineup either, but when allowed to play with his eyes toward the QB he probably made more plays on the ball the last 3-4 years than any of the other CBs currently on the roster. He was a pretty good #3/Nickle CB, but he was a subpar starter.

 

[Kenny Powers]

Time for Lewis/Brown/Allen to step up. Lewis was probably going to be starting anyway, so not a debilitating loss.Say what you want about Gay, and I'm certainly not going to miss him in the starting lineup either, but when allowed to play with his eyes toward the QB he probably made more plays on the ball the last 3-4 years than any of the other CBs currently on the roster. He was a pretty good #3/Nickle CB, but he was a subpar starter.

He had 3 picks and 2 FF in 5 years, dont know that he was all that good at making plays on the ball but I agree he was a decent nickel CB (well, last year at least).Any idea what ARZ paid him?

 

[The Jerk]

Im right there with you. I knew last year was going to be a waste. I was particularly upset after our super bowl loss because I knew that was the last shot for the team as comprised. When no moves were really made and the team was kept in tact but a year older, i had a bad feeling. At this point i dont think we are contenders this season though. I think a real nfl rb is needed with a more balanced O and healthy o-line. The D will be better. The young guys on the d-line and at cb will get a chance to shine now after learning the system.

You may be right. Still, in today's NFL, it isn't usually the best team that wins the Super Bowl, but rather a reasonably strong team that peaks at the right time. Just remembering what the past seven champions have been...2005 6 seed2006 3 seed2007 5 seed2008 2 seed2009 1 seed2010 6 seed2011 4 seedMostly, a team just needs to be good enough to get into the playoffs and get hot. They don't need to dominate all season long. I might be wearing the black and gold glasses, but I'm thinking the Steelers are more likely than not to make the playoffs, and then it's all about matchups and momentum.

 

[Lutherman2112]

 

[Godsbrother]

Time for Lewis/Brown/Allen to step up. Lewis was probably going to be starting anyway, so not a debilitating loss.Say what you want about Gay, and I'm certainly not going to miss him in the starting lineup either, but when allowed to play with his eyes toward the QB he probably made more plays on the ball the last 3-4 years than any of the other CBs currently on the roster. He was a pretty good #3/Nickle CB, but he was a subpar starter.

Agreed but his departure makes an already suspect secondary worse.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

Why wouldn't we have an interest in a decent inside linebacker who has good coverage abilities and understands our system?

Keyaron Fox

He isn't a thumper, obviously. But in todays NFL he could prove very useful (incl STs, he was our captain), and cheap.

Id feel much more comfortable with him on board, because of his game day experience.

 

[Kenny Powers]

Time for Lewis/Brown/Allen to step up. Lewis was probably going to be starting anyway, so not a debilitating loss.Say what you want about Gay, and I'm certainly not going to miss him in the starting lineup either, but when allowed to play with his eyes toward the QB he probably made more plays on the ball the last 3-4 years than any of the other CBs currently on the roster. He was a pretty good #3/Nickle CB, but he was a subpar starter.

Agreed but his departure makes an already suspect secondary worse.

Hard to call Cortez and Brown suspect when theyve barely seen the field on defense. I thought Allen looked solid in limited snaps and he was seen as very raw when we drafted him.

 

[Godsbrother]

Why wouldn't we have an interest in a decent inside linebacker who has good coverage abilities and understands our system?Keyaron FoxHe isn't a thumper, obviously. But in todays NFL he could prove very useful (incl STs, he was our captain), and cheap. Id feel much more comfortable with him on board, because of his game day experience.

I think he wore out his welcome after his boneheaded and costly penalties in the 2010 playoff run and in Super Bowl XLV

 

[Godsbrother]

Time for Lewis/Brown/Allen to step up. Lewis was probably going to be starting anyway, so not a debilitating loss.Say what you want about Gay, and I'm certainly not going to miss him in the starting lineup either, but when allowed to play with his eyes toward the QB he probably made more plays on the ball the last 3-4 years than any of the other CBs currently on the roster. He was a pretty good #3/Nickle CB, but he was a subpar starter.

Agreed but his departure makes an already suspect secondary worse.

Hard to call Cortez and Brown suspect when theyve barely seen the field on defense. I thought Allen looked solid in limited snaps and he was seen as very raw when we drafted him.

They're suspect precisely because of their limited snaps. I am not saying they aren't better than Gay but at this point we really don't know. Losing Gay isn't the end of the world but I would have liked to have kept him.

 

[Kenny Powers]

Steelers granted three seventh-round compensatory draft picks for the loss of Spaeth, Eason and Fox last year. Good to have in this time of cheapness.

Works for me

 

[Kenny Powers]

Time for Lewis/Brown/Allen to step up. Lewis was probably going to be starting anyway, so not a debilitating loss.Say what you want about Gay, and I'm certainly not going to miss him in the starting lineup either, but when allowed to play with his eyes toward the QB he probably made more plays on the ball the last 3-4 years than any of the other CBs currently on the roster. He was a pretty good #3/Nickle CB, but he was a subpar starter.

Agreed but his departure makes an already suspect secondary worse.

Hard to call Cortez and Brown suspect when theyve barely seen the field on defense. I thought Allen looked solid in limited snaps and he was seen as very raw when we drafted him.

They're suspect precisely because of their limited snaps. I am not saying they aren't better than Gay but at this point we really don't know. Losing Gay isn't the end of the world but I would have liked to have kept him.

Yeah, but you said it makes the secondary worse which isnt necessarily the case.I think Im actually glad Gay is gone because I want to see what we have in Cortez and Brown now. Now maybe neither turns out to be as good as Gay, but Id rather take that chance now than settle on Gay as our nickel for the next few years while not seeing what we have in these 2011 rookies.

 

[Godsbrother]

Time for Lewis/Brown/Allen to step up. Lewis was probably going to be starting anyway, so not a debilitating loss.Say what you want about Gay, and I'm certainly not going to miss him in the starting lineup either, but when allowed to play with his eyes toward the QB he probably made more plays on the ball the last 3-4 years than any of the other CBs currently on the roster. He was a pretty good #3/Nickle CB, but he was a subpar starter.

Agreed but his departure makes an already suspect secondary worse.

Hard to call Cortez and Brown suspect when theyve barely seen the field on defense. I thought Allen looked solid in limited snaps and he was seen as very raw when we drafted him.

They're suspect precisely because of their limited snaps. I am not saying they aren't better than Gay but at this point we really don't know. Losing Gay isn't the end of the world but I would have liked to have kept him.

Yeah, but you said it makes the secondary worse which isnt necessarily the case.I think Im actually glad Gay is gone because I want to see what we have in Cortez and Brown now. Now maybe neither turns out to be as good as Gay, but Id rather take that chance now than settle on Gay as our nickel for the next few years while not seeing what we have in these 2011 rookies.

Not necessarily worse but certainly thinner without Gay. I am pretty sure that Lewis, Cortez and Allen have a combined total of 1 start between them which you have to admit is a little scary.

 

[Ben Stiller]

Tomlin: Decisions to replace Arians, hire Haley were his

March 27, 2012 10:29 am

By Ed Bouchette / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

PALM BEACH, Fla. -- Taking questions from reporters today for the first time since Jan. 9, Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin was adamant that it was his decision to let Bruce Arians go as offensive coordinator and then hire Todd Haley to replace him.

"I thought that it was time for change," Tomlin said this morning, speaking about the subject publicly for the first time. "We're moving into a situation here where we have an opportunity to grow and develop some young talent offensively. It's awesome to have an opportunity to maybe have the division of some common opponents -- people who are comfortable with how you play football -- get uncomfortable. That's what's going to happen to us this year. We're excited about that.

"More than anything, I'm not going to apologize for change. That's football. I think all of us in this industry understand that, and our intentions are that it changed for the better."

The Steelers announced Jan. 20 that Arians had "retired." They announced Haley's hiring Feb. 7.

Arians agreed to join the coaching staff of the Indianapolis Colts a little more than a week after leaving the Steelers.

Tomlin stated emphatically that both decisions were his, that neither came at the behest of Steelers president Art Rooney II.

"He didn't," Tomlin said of Rooney having influence in Arians leaving. "I don't know where some of these perceptions come from. I don't break my neck to try to combat them in any way. I don't know where they come from.

"And I hired Todd Haley as well, which is your next question, which is another funny one to me. And don't get me wrong, of course, Art Rooney owns the football team, he can do what he wants to do, but those directives did not happen."

Tomlin held a press conference the day after the Steelers lost a playoff game in Denver Jan. 8 and has been mostly silent since then in public.

He made a few remarks when Haley was introduced at a press conference but took no questions. He also has been interviewed on Steelers.com, the team's website, about some matters.

During the nearly hour-long interview at an AFC coaches breakfast as part of the NFL meetings, Tomlin touched on a number of different topics, nearly all of them for the first time:

• He expects Haley and quarterback Ben Roethlisberger to have a good relationship.

"I'm not worried ... I don't anticipate any issues. I anticipate both guys getting along great."

• While he likes the "men" behind the injured Rashard Mendenhall at running back, "I'm sure we're going to get a running back in some form or fashion" in free agency or the draft.

• Haley's new playbook will include new nomenclature the players and coaches must learn and maybe a fullback, but there will be no overhaul in the blocking schemes.

"It's been fun. Todd is very flexible, he's very sound in his approach. We've had awesome discussions in terms of building it ... We're going to build our attack around the strengths of our men.

"Obviously Ben is a talented guy, we've got some talented receivers, we've got an interesting group of running back prospects, we're putting together an offensive line. So we're laying down the fundamental basis of how we'll approach it, what's going to be us regardless of circumstance."

• The Steelers want to acquire "a young quarterback in some form or fashion" but they are not looking to groom someone for the day when Roethlisberger leaves.

• He was blunt on the ability of both wide receiver Emmanuel Sanders and tackle Willie Colon to remain healthy for longer periods. Colon has missed all but one game of the past two seasons with achilles and arm injuries. Sanders has had several surgeries on his feet and a knee, including a post-season foot operation.

"You can't anticipate it's going to stop," he said of Sanders' injuries, although maintaining he is on track to recover from his latest surgery. "The same could be said for Willie Colon."

• He equated Rooney's statement that Roethlisberger needs to "tweak" his game as merely for him to "evolve." He said he does not think Roethlisberger's ability to maneuver in and out of the pocket has been diminished at age 30.

• Three draft prospects, besides those from Pitt, have made official visits to the Steelers: Ohio State OT Mike Adams, Florida International WR T.Y. Hilton and Cincinnati DL Derek Wolfe.

• The formal workouts with players will begin April 16, as provided for in the NFL's collective-bargaining agreement, which has reduced the number of spring practices (OTAs) from 14 to 10, plus a three-day minicamp. OTAs will start May 22 and the spring practices will end with minicamp May 12-14.

• He has not thought about whether a team will sign Mike Wallace or not as a restricted free agent. They have until April 20 to do so and the Steelers have the right to match it and keep him.

"We'll cross that bridge when we come to it -- if we come to it."

• Tomlin continued to report upbeat progress on Kirby Wilson, who was severely burned in a kitchen fire Jan. 6. Wilson left the hospital more than a week ago and is "attacking rehab." Tomlin expects him to return to his staff as running backs coach this year.

• Nose tackle Casey Hampton could open the season on the physically unable to perform list, and if that's the case, Tomlin said Scott McLendon is starter capable and Ziggy Hood would be a possibility, as would someone else who might be signed or drafted.

Tomlin said the team is approaching the situation as if Hampton will play.

Ed Bouchette: ebouchette@post-gazette.com and Twitter on @EdBouchette.

First Published 2012-03-27 14:31:59

 

[BigSteelThrill]

Steelers granted three seventh-round compensatory draft picks for the loss of Spaeth, Eason and Fox last year. Good to have in this time of cheapness.

Works for me

3 UDFA's that don't have to be fought over.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

And there it is...

Mike Adams OT Ohio St coming for a visit.

They want him. They will now calculate whether they they think they have a chance at #24... if not they will be willing to move up to take him.

3rd rounder takes them to #19 (or so).

2nd rounder takes them to #14 (or so).

Those 3 added 7th round compensatory picks will make it much easier to include our original 5th, 6th and 7th into any deal.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

And there it is...Mike Adams OT Stanford coming for a visit.They want him. They will now calculate whether they they think they have a chance at #24... if not they will be willing to move up to take him.3rd rounder takes them to #19 (or so).2nd rounder takes them to #14 (or so).Those 3 added 7th round compensatory picks will make it much easier to include our original 5th, 6th and 7th into any deal.

Ohio St.Not sure what to make of this guy. He has elite size and great feet, but I don't see him ever being dominant. He has problems with pass rushers that bring a few moves to the table and as a result, I think he's a RT (with Gilbert on the left, I suppose.) He needs to get stronger to handle the right side, though. Reminds me a little bit of Starks, only more agile, and not as powerful.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

I was just fixing it, damn you!

1 minute too slow.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

He has elite size and great feet, but I don't see him ever being dominant. He has problems with pass rushers that bring a few moves to the table and as a result, I think he's a RT (with Gilbert on the left, I suppose.) He needs to get stronger to handle the right side, though. Reminds me a little bit of Starks, only more agile, and not as powerful.

See, every time I've ever watched this guy play he didn't look like he had great feet at all. He looked lumbering and susceptible to speed. And if we were to agree that he isn't as powerful as Starks that's further damning him, to me. Starks should have been able to ragdoll guys at his size...and couldn't. Total finesse guy. He was that way at UF and it never changed. Just didn't have the toughness/mindset to be that kind of player. I don't think Adams does either.I hope he isn't a guy who they're targeting "at all costs" to the point that they'd trade up for him. Better served using those picks in another manner, IMO.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

He has elite size and great feet, but I don't see him ever being dominant. He has problems with pass rushers that bring a few moves to the table and as a result, I think he's a RT (with Gilbert on the left, I suppose.) He needs to get stronger to handle the right side, though. Reminds me a little bit of Starks, only more agile, and not as powerful.

See, every time I've ever watched this guy play he didn't look like he had great feet at all. He looked lumbering and susceptible to speed. And if we were to agree that he isn't as powerful as Starks that's further damning him, to me. Starks should have been able to ragdoll guys at his size...and couldn't. Total finesse guy. He was that way at UF and it never changed. Just didn't have the toughness/mindset to be that kind of player. I don't think Adams does either.I hope he isn't a guy who they're targeting "at all costs", to the point that they'd trade up for him.

He gets out of his stance cat-quick, however.He also does a splendid job of reading the defensive schemes and switching-off defenders.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

He has elite size and great feet, but I don't see him ever being dominant. He has problems with pass rushers that bring a few moves to the table and as a result, I think he's a RT (with Gilbert on the left, I suppose.) He needs to get stronger to handle the right side, though. Reminds me a little bit of Starks, only more agile, and not as powerful.

See, every time I've ever watched this guy play he didn't look like he had great feet at all. He looked lumbering and susceptible to speed. And if we were to agree that he isn't as powerful as Starks that's further damning him, to me. Starks should have been able to ragdoll guys at his size...and couldn't. Total finesse guy. He was that way at UF and it never changed. Just didn't have the toughness/mindset to be that kind of player. I don't think Adams does either.

I hope he isn't a guy who they're targeting "at all costs" to the point that they'd trade up for him. Better served using those picks in another manner, IMO.

Agree 100%, that's what reminds me of Starks. He seems a little softer and more finesse than he should be at his size. I've only seen a few Ohio St. games, but the book on this kid is that he does slide and mirror well, but smaller, stronger guys can get under his pads and move him around. He's also fooled by superior pass rush moves. I think Harrison would be a guy that would give him fits, so if they do draft him, I hope they put him on the left for a while in practice and let him try to contain 92 before they send him out there to try to stop Suggs.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

He has elite size and great feet, but I don't see him ever being dominant. He has problems with pass rushers that bring a few moves to the table and as a result, I think he's a RT (with Gilbert on the left, I suppose.) He needs to get stronger to handle the right side, though. Reminds me a little bit of Starks, only more agile, and not as powerful.

See, every time I've ever watched this guy play he didn't look like he had great feet at all. He looked lumbering and susceptible to speed. And if we were to agree that he isn't as powerful as Starks that's further damning him, to me. Starks should have been able to ragdoll guys at his size...and couldn't. Total finesse guy. He was that way at UF and it never changed. Just didn't have the toughness/mindset to be that kind of player. I don't think Adams does either.

I hope he isn't a guy who they're targeting "at all costs" to the point that they'd trade up for him. Better served using those picks in another manner, IMO.

Agree 100%, that's what reminds me of Starks. He seems a little softer and more finesse than he should be at his size. I've only seen a few Ohio St. games, but the book on this kid is that he does slide and mirror well, but smaller, stronger guys can get under his pads and move him around. He's also fooled by superior pass rush moves. I think Harrison would be a guy that would give him fits, so if they do draft him, I hope they put him on the left for a while in practice and let him try to contain 92 before they send him out there to try to stop Suggs.

I dont think bullrushers ever did much against him. Like Harrisons primary maneuver.Pure speed outside rushers werent a real problem... unless it came with another additional good pass rushing move.

Just getting under his pads was never enough.

Quick guys with excellent hand fighting ability did give him problems. They would yank him out of position.

Guys with impressive spin ability would cause him issues as well, as he wouldnt grasp/hold onto them.

*Harrison would give him problem with his arm-chopping kung fu though.

 

[Idiot Boxer]

Don't get too caught up in the dance of who they bring in. Half the time they bring someone in it is because they want someone ahead of them to believe they're interested or they're making a smokescreen for who they really want.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

Don't get too caught up in the dance of who they bring in. Half the time they bring someone in it is because they want someone ahead of them to believe they're interested or they're making a smokescreen for who they really want.

Nah, they are very very straight-shooters. They take care of their business and let the other teams play games.I think the last two years, almost every single pick had a visit in one way or another.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

Hopefully they shoot straight past Adams. In all honesty, I think he's a tremendous overdraft just waiting to happen if he's taken before the middle of round 2. Prefer it be another team that does it.

 

[Kenny Powers]

And there it is...

Mike Adams OT Ohio St coming for a visit.

They want him. They will now calculate whether they they think they have a chance at #24... if not they will be willing to move up to take him.

3rd rounder takes them to #19 (or so).

2nd rounder takes them to #14 (or so).

Those 3 added 7th round compensatory picks will make it much easier to include our original 5th, 6th and 7th into any deal.

Why is this the case?! I dont recall the exact number, but every team can bring in/interview 20-30 players IIRC. I think youre really jumping to conclusions.I dont want Adams at all, and theyd be nuts to trade up for him. If Kuechly or Glenn or Kirkpatrick slips, Id much rather trade up for them but I think we'll be fine landing someone at 24 (as long as it isnt Adams).

 

[BigSteelThrill]

I think youre really jumping to conclusions.

Well of course. Thats what happens when you make a prediction. But this is the first 1st-round grade player they are looking at for a reason.Happen to think the front office is considering Adams as the 2nd best LT prospect of the draft (as many others do also). Especially from a protecting Ben standpoint. Most of Adams deficiencies are from the double pass rushing move, which is a technique issue and teachable.They want to confirm what their scouting department has concluded. Thus the visit.Obviously they will be pulling in 5(or so) other guys that could be their first round pick.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

Cowboys signed FB Lawrence Vickers, formerly of the Texans.

This signing bodes poorly for restricted free agent Tony Fiammmetta's future in Dallas after the two sides were unable to reach agreement on a long-term deal early in the week.

Wouldn't mind the Steelers taking a look at Fiammetta, thought he did a nice job last year when he was healthy and he shouldn't cost too much.

Fiammetta did a splendid job. Would be almost as interested as Vickers if his health/status is okay.

After he missed 3+ weeks with an inner ear infection, he was not quite the same player in the final couple games for Dallas.

Damn it.The New England Patriots have agreed to terms with free-agent FB Tony Fiammetta (Cowboys). Terms of the contract were not disclosed.

 

[Kenny Powers]

I think youre really jumping to conclusions.

Well of course. Thats what happens when you make a prediction. But this is the first 1st-round grade player they are looking at for a reason.Happen to think the front office is considering Adams as the 2nd best LT prospect of the draft (as many others do also). Especially from a protecting Ben standpoint. Most of Adams deficiencies are from the double pass rushing move, which is a technique issue and teachable.They want to confirm what their scouting department has concluded. Thus the visit.Obviously they will be pulling in 5(or so) other guys that could be their first round pick.

I really havent seen much gametape on Adams so I cant debate that really, but his combine was lackluster to say the least. I usually take combine #s with a grain of salt, but he was 1 of the lowest if not the worst in bench press for a OL, and they commented on how he has short arms and that benefits players in bench, whereas Cordy Glenn had IIRC 10-12 more reps than him and his arms are an inch longer. Not only does Adams appear undersized as a LT, but also lacking strength.I would much rather trade up 5-8 picks (depending on who slides) for Decastro or Glenn than "settle" for Adams. I just dont see it with Adams, but if Colbert takes him in the 1st I guess I gotta trust in the pick.

 

[JoeSteeler]

I think youre really jumping to conclusions.

Well of course. Thats what happens when you make a prediction. But this is the first 1st-round grade player they are looking at for a reason.Happen to think the front office is considering Adams as the 2nd best LT prospect of the draft (as many others do also). Especially from a protecting Ben standpoint. Most of Adams deficiencies are from the double pass rushing move, which is a technique issue and teachable.They want to confirm what their scouting department has concluded. Thus the visit.Obviously they will be pulling in 5(or so) other guys that could be their first round pick.

I really havent seen much gametape on Adams so I cant debate that really, but his combine was lackluster to say the least. I usually take combine #s with a grain of salt, but he was 1 of the lowest if not the worst in bench press for a OL, and they commented on how he has short arms and that benefits players in bench, whereas Cordy Glenn had IIRC 10-12 more reps than him and his arms are an inch longer. Not only does Adams appear undersized as a LT, but also lacking strength.I would much rather trade up 5-8 picks (depending on who slides) for Decastro or Glenn than "settle" for Adams. I just dont see it with Adams, but if Colbert takes him in the 1st I guess I gotta trust in the pick.

could not have said it any better myself. my TV may not survive if they take Adams at 24.

 

[MAC_32]

Adams is a turnstile when it comes to any semblance of speed outside. Poor measurables aside, he's a mediocre right tackle and would be an awful left tackle.

I hope you guys draft him, but I'm sure we will instead.

 

[BigSteelThrill]

Adams is a turnstile when it comes to any semblance of speed outside. Poor measurables aside, he's a mediocre right tackle and would be an awful left tackle.I hope you guys draft him, but I'm sure we will instead.

 

[5-ish Finkle]

But this is the first 1st-round grade player they are looking at for a reason.

I think the only reason is.....that he happens to be the first 1st-round grade player that was available to be brought in. It has to be somebody every year. To read anything more into than that is pretty silly to me, unless we've got data supporting that 80% of the first 1st-round graded players that they bring in are who they draft in round one, or something. I'm guessing that probably isn't the case.At any rate, I'll worry about Adams on draft day. Colbert was at the second 'Bama Pro Day today. Upshaw and Barron were a couple of the notable participants that he could have been watching.

 

[Steelfan7]

Hopefully they shoot straight past Adams. In all honesty, I think he's a tremendous overdraft just waiting to happen if he's taken before the middle of round 2. Prefer it be another team that does it.

Reports are out that Adams is not in very good shape right now.

 

[Kenny Powers]

But this is the first 1st-round grade player they are looking at for a reason.

I think the only reason is.....that he happens to be the first 1st-round grade player that was available to be brought in. It has to be somebody every year. To read anything more into than that is pretty silly to me, unless we've got data supporting that 80% of the first 1st-round graded players that they bring in are who they draft in round one, or something. I'm guessing that probably isn't the case.At any rate, I'll worry about Adams on draft day. Colbert was at the second 'Bama Pro Day today. Upshaw and Barron were a couple of the notable participants that he could have been watching.

I think Barron is a big sleeper possibility as our #1.He doesnt fill near our biggest need, but it is a position with zero depth and Troy & Clark are both around 30 if not past it. Barron to me looks like 1 of the cant miss players in this draft, although Im not quite sure how much of a difference making safety hell be. He will be a linchpin for any D, which is good enough for me, but I dont quite see him as transcendent safety. Hell, few are.

 

[Fiddles]

But this is the first 1st-round grade player they are looking at for a reason.

I think the only reason is.....that he happens to be the first 1st-round grade player that was available to be brought in. It has to be somebody every year. To read anything more into than that is pretty silly to me, unless we've got data supporting that 80% of the first 1st-round graded players that they bring in are who they draft in round one, or something. I'm guessing that probably isn't the case.At any rate, I'll worry about Adams on draft day. Colbert was at the second 'Bama Pro Day today. Upshaw and Barron were a couple of the notable participants that he could have been watching.

I think Barron is a big sleeper possibility as our #1.He doesnt fill near our biggest need, but it is a position with zero depth and Troy & Clark are both around 30 if not past it. Barron to me looks like 1 of the cant miss players in this draft, although Im not quite sure how much of a difference making safety hell be. He will be a linchpin for any D, which is good enough for me, but I dont quite see him as transcendent safety. Hell, few are.

i was thinking the same thing while watching path to the draft