RB Droughns traded for DE Ekuban (1 Viewer)

[Jason Wood]

The trade is CONFIRMED via Len P at ESPN.

The article suggests Droughns will be Suggs' backup, but take that for what it's worth, which at this point isn't much.

It means they won't be drafting an RB in round 1, which was a REMOTE possiblity but nonetheless can now be crossed off the list.Colin

Agreed, although I didn't see them as a fit for RB anyway. I think they're going Smith (smokescreen) or Edwards personally.

 

[Kleck.]

I'm not sure if this has been said or not, but I'm surprised that they'd trade for Droughns when Anthony Thomas and Davenport are on FA, and Henry seems as cheap.

Isnt Davenport a RFA??Anyway, Thomas was mentioned. Good point either way.

Yes, and Davenport also just had shoulder surgery which is why most teams aren't real interested right now. It's also a reason why Green Bay tendered him for so cheap.

 

[fridayfrenzy]

I think this means William Green will be cut in June.I see the same situation in Cleveland as last year, two RBs who will fight every game just to stay on the field. I also don't think Droughns is good enough to take the job away from Suggs, unless there is an injury. Droughns amassed good stats this year for once in his career, and it was in Denver, the place where any RB can amass great stats it seems. Keep in mind he also lost his starting gig at the end of the season, so Droughns has been good at tailback for one tiny stretch in his career. I am not on the boat that Droughns will become the starter without a Suggs injury or that this hurts Sugg's value. They are going to cut Green in June, just you wait and see!!

 

[Fallerjw]

The trade is CONFIRMED via Len P at ESPN.

The article suggests Droughns will be Suggs' backup, but take that for what it's worth, which at this point isn't much.

It means they won't be drafting an RB in round 1, which was a REMOTE possiblity but nonetheless can now be crossed off the list.Colin

Agreed, although I didn't see them as a fit for RB anyway. I think they're going Smith (smokescreen) or Edwards personally.

Please don't let this be true....I'm hoping Crennel convinces Savage to go Defense, at least in round 1.

 

[SammyJankis]

Every Suggs owner =

Droughns owner =

Droughns is only going to be insurance for if/when Suggs gets hurt.

I think some people who are giddy to have won the debate about who's better, William Green and Lee Suggs don't see Suggs for what he is. He may be better than Green but he ain't great. Beating out Green is no big deal. Beating out a guy that had more production in a single season than Suggs has had in a career is not going to be that easy. Keep in mind that I was leading the charge on the Lee Suggs is better than William Green threads saying Green blows. But Suggs is going to have a tough battle holding onto the starting job of RD is traded to Cleveland.

Have you seen the two play?William Green as a physical specimen is impressive. Perfect size. Great speed. Great power. Explosive. So why does he stink?

Well, clearly personal issues are a big part of it. (Duh) But past that, even if Green was a model citizen, I don't believe that Green would have ever been a big time player. His biggest flaw is a lack of vision. For a RB, this is often a critical flaw and it proved true for Green.

I often saw Green have an opportunity to either make a cut and take a big gain or run toward approaching defenders. He always ran towards the defenders. At times, he would freeze and just wait to get tackled. Sometimes he would do this just short of the first down line. His instincts as a RB are just plain terrible. Great athlete, awful runner.

Suggs is nearly his opposite. He isn't the same athlete that Green is. But his instincts are top-shelf. At times, Suggs almost seems like he has eyes in the back of his head or a sixth sense. If there is a crease anywhere, Suggs could find it. On top of that, Suggs has lightning speed and explosiveness.

Suggs achilies heel is clearly his lack of durability. Its a major weakness. Neck stinger, turf toe, etc. He got his chance, but perhaps to being fragile, perhaps due to circumstance, he couldn't answer the call.

But are we to believe that Droughns is better. Droughns is a guy that was cast aside in favor of Tatum Bell. A good RB for the system perhaps, but certainlly not an elite talent. In Suggs can stay healthy he should dispatch Droughns without a second thought.

If the Browns were serious about revamping the running game they would be debating Cadillac, Ronnie Brown and Benson. As it is, they are debating cheap insurance policies in case Suggs can't step up to the plate.

My thinking is that Suggs get another chance. If he's injured or ineffctive Droughns will get a chance. If neither is effective it'll be a round 1 RB in 06.

But Suggs gets first bite at the apple in 05.

 

[SammyJankis]

I own Suggs in a couple leagues so I could be seen as biased here, but I'm in the camp who doesn't see Droughns as much more than a career backup. He failed to impress me last year and I think his stats were a product of the Denver system more than they were a product of his talent. I think he's an insurance policy for Cleveland and I expect Suggs to ultimately be the opening day starter.

Maybe I'm biased as well as a Suggs owner in a Dynasty league but I agree with EBF on this one. I'll actually be relieved if this trade goes through as it pretty much guarantees Cleveland will not draft a RB. I'd be more concerned if they spent a 1st-3rd round pick on a rookie. I don't see Droughns as much of a threat to Suggs at all. I see him as essentially an insurance policy in case Suggs gets hurt AGAIN

If you own Suggs in a dynasty league (I own him in both of my dynasty leagues) I think bringing Droughns on board is close to a best case scenario. In a perfect world, Crennel would show up and say, "we're going to release Green. Eichimandu will be the backup and Suggs will get 30 carries a game." But that just isn't going to happen.Suggs, as good as I believe him to be, suffered a long string of injuries last year. Green is gone, its just a matter of before or after the draft. Would any team really go into the season with an unproven guy that while he's shown flashes has suffered a long stirng of injuries with no backup? The Browns just can't afford to do that.

Eichamandu isn't a factor. Green is going to be gone. So someone must be brought in. As a Suggs owner, I welcome guys like Chester Taylor and Droughns as opposed to drafting Ronnie Brown or Benson at the 3 spot.

 

[Fallerjw]

Every Suggs owner =

Droughns owner =

Droughns is only going to be insurance for if/when Suggs gets hurt.

I think some people who are giddy to have won the debate about who's better, William Green and Lee Suggs don't see Suggs for what he is. He may be better than Green but he ain't great. Beating out Green is no big deal. Beating out a guy that had more production in a single season than Suggs has had in a career is not going to be that easy. Keep in mind that I was leading the charge on the Lee Suggs is better than William Green threads saying Green blows. But Suggs is going to have a tough battle holding onto the starting job of RD is traded to Cleveland.

Have you seen the two play?William Green as a physical specimen is impressive. Perfect size. Great speed. Great power. Explosive. So why does he stink?

Well, clearly personal issues are a big part of it. (Duh) But past that, even if Green was a model citizen, I don't believe that Green would have ever been a big time player. His biggest flaw is a lack of vision. For a RB, this is often a critical flaw and it proved true for Green.

I often saw Green have an opportunity to either make a cut and take a big gain or run toward approaching defenders. He always ran towards the defenders. At times, he would freeze and just wait to get tackled. Sometimes he would do this just short of the first down line. His instincts as a RB are just plain terrible. Great athlete, awful runner.

Suggs is nearly his opposite. He isn't the same athlete that Green is. But his instincts are top-shelf. At times, Suggs almost seems like he has eyes in the back of his head or a sixth sense. If there is a crease anywhere, Suggs could find it. On top of that, Suggs has lightning speed and explosiveness.

Suggs achilies heel is clearly his lack of durability. Its a major weakness. Neck stinger, turf toe, etc. He got his chance, but perhaps to being fragile, perhaps due to circumstance, he couldn't answer the call.

But are we to believe that Droughns is better. Droughns is a guy that was cast aside in favor of Tatum Bell. A good RB for the system perhaps, but certainlly not an elite talent. In Suggs can stay healthy he should dispatch Droughns without a second thought.

If the Browns were serious about revamping the running game they would be debating Cadillac, Ronnie Brown and Benson. As it is, they are debating cheap insurance policies in case Suggs can't step up to the plate.

My thinking is that Suggs get another chance. If he's injured or ineffctive Droughns will get a chance. If neither is effective it'll be a round 1 RB in 06.

But Suggs gets first bite at the apple in 05.

 

[Slash]

Romeo Crennel comes from New England where they won two superbowls with the power running of Antwaoin Smith. I'd expect Lee Suggs will see a diminished role as a 3rd down back while Reuben Droughns is the guy that moves the chains and pounds it in on the goaline.

 

[bumpman]

Romeo Crennel comes from New England where they won two superbowls with the power running of Antwaoin Smith. I'd expect Lee Suggs will see a diminished role as a 3rd down back while Reuben Droughns is the guy that moves the chains and pounds it in on the goaline.

I was wondering when this guy would show up.

 

[SammyJankis]

The trade is CONFIRMED via Len P at ESPN.

The article suggests Droughns will be Suggs' backup, but take that for what it's worth, which at this point isn't much.

So Len Pasquerelli reports that Droughns is the backup and Suggs it the starter. What evidence would you suggest leads to the contrary?

 

[SammyJankis]

Romeo Crennel comes from New England where they won two superbowls with the power running of Antwaoin Smith. I'd expect Lee Suggs will see a diminished role as a 3rd down back while Reuben Droughns is the guy that moves the chains and pounds it in on the goaline.

Weren't you the #3 member in the William Green fan club behing George Jefferson and JJ Evans? Just trying for a little perspective here.....

 

[Bojang0301]

Romeo Crennel comes from New England where they won two superbowls with the power running of Antwaoin Smith.  I'd expect Lee Suggs will see a diminished role as a 3rd down back while Reuben Droughns is the guy that moves the chains and pounds it in on the goaline.

I was wondering when this guy would show up.

Who's that, George Jefferson's 4th or 5th alias?

 

[tunaboys]

All hail to the mighty Shannahan for making yet another steal of a trade (if Ekuban is does not lose a leg in the rehab process.) Droughns for Ekhuban and Myers? Romeo better go back to NE, man. Droughns will be another Olandis Gary at best w/o the Denver line, who can make my grandma into a top 10 back. Browns is quickly surging on my 2005 worst team list.

 

[Slash]

I see the Lee Suggs groupies are in this thread in full force. Too bad the Browns' new regime is showing little faith in him. Droughns is coming to Cleveland to be a starter and has proven production and durability. Lee Suggs is a hang nail away from becoming the next Deshaun Foster. The bus is passing Lee Suggs by. My prediction for Lee Suggs? Kickoff returns and some 3rd and long draws.

 

[bumpman]

I see the Lee Suggs groupies are in this thread in full force. Too bad the Browns' new regime is showing little faith in him. Droughns is coming to Cleveland to be a starter and has proven production and durability. Lee Suggs is a hang nail away from becoming the next Deshaun Foster. The bus is passing Lee Suggs by.

My prediction for Lee Suggs? Kickoff returns and some 3rd and long draws.

I've never seen anybody dislike another player so much that he would hang around any thread remotely about Suggs just to badmouth the guy. You should spend time being happy that your dude, Willie Green, will finally be waived or traded for a backup cheerleader, and be able to resume his career as a first round bust.

 

[Fallerjw]

I see the Lee Suggs groupies are in this thread in full force. Too bad the Browns' new regime is showing little faith in him. Droughns is coming to Cleveland to be a starter and has proven production and durability. Lee Suggs is a hang nail away from becoming the next Deshaun Foster. The bus is passing Lee Suggs by.

My prediction for Lee Suggs? Kickoff returns and some 3rd and long draws.

I've never seen anybody dislike another player so much that he would hang around any thread remotely about Suggs just to badmouth the guy. You should spend time being happy that your dude, Willie Green, will finally be waived or traded for a backup cheerleader, and be able to resume his career as a first round bust.

I don't see where Green is going to end up? If Travis Henry, A-Train and others are waiting for a job, and a nice crop of rookies coming, where can he even go?

 

[SammyJankis]

I see the Lee Suggs groupies are in this thread in full force. Too bad the Browns' new regime is showing little faith in him. Droughns is coming to Cleveland to be a starter and has proven production and durability. Lee Suggs is a hang nail away from becoming the next Deshaun Foster. The bus is passing Lee Suggs by.

My prediction for Lee Suggs? Kickoff returns and some 3rd and long draws.

How's Willie Green's future looking? Is he still a strong buy? Or has that bus left the station? JJ Evans and George Jefferson used to always give us ignorant folks on the FBG message board the good word about Green, but as Tom Petty sings, they "Don't come around no more."Suggs figures to enter both of my dynasty leagues as my 5th string RB. In other words, he'll have to beat out Droughns and play well to ever see my starting lineup. That being said, he figured to have competition regardless, and I would deem Droughns close to a "best case scenario" in that regard. In other words, based on 04, its impossible to not expect competition for Suggs, but as long as its not a top tier guy, I think Suggs is in good shape.

 

[Kleck.]

As a Lee Suggs dynasty owner, instead of trying to trade for Droughns, I think I'll try to trade Suggs to the Droughns owner. I do think Suggs is more talented, but I really don't think I want to be involved in this situation. Besides, Suggs is my #6 RB and I'll never play him anyway.

 

[LHUCKS]

All hail to the mighty Shannahan for making yet another steal of a trade (if Ekuban is does not lose a leg in the rehab process.) Droughns for Ekhuban and Myers? Romeo better go back to NE, man. Droughns will be another Olandis Gary at best w/o the Denver line, who can make my grandma into a top 10 back. Browns is quickly surging on my 2005 worst team list.

 

[Fallerjw]

As a Lee Suggs dynasty owner, instead of trying to trade for Droughns, I think I'll try to trade Suggs to the Droughns owner. I do think Suggs is more talented, but I really don't think I want to be involved in this situation. Besides, Suggs is my #6 RB and I'll never play him anyway.

That's one heck of a stacked team!!

 

[Kleck.]

As a Lee Suggs dynasty owner, instead of trying to trade for Droughns, I think I'll try to trade Suggs to the Droughns owner.  I do think Suggs is more talented, but I really don't think I want to be involved in this situation.  Besides, Suggs is my #6 RB and I'll never play him anyway.

That's one heck of a stacked team!!

This league has been going on for many years. I always load up on RB's every rookie draft and now have a great group. I could use some help in other areas though.

 

[fridayfrenzy]

As a Lee Suggs dynasty owner, instead of trying to trade for Droughns, I think I'll try to trade Suggs to the Droughns owner. I do think Suggs is more talented, but I really don't think I want to be involved in this situation. Besides, Suggs is my #6 RB and I'll never play him anyway.

That's one heck of a stacked team!!

This league has been going on for many years. I always load up on RB's every rookie draft and now have a great group. I could use some help in other areas though.

Thats where trades come in.

 

[Gridiron King]

Just because I'm a nice guy and in a good mood, I offered a guy in one of my leagues Droughns and the 1.09 rookie pick for the 1.06 and Mn def. He has Suggs and Green. I think I'm being generous, but that's the type of guy I am

Edited to say he turned it down. Wow, I guess he would rather have a 2nd tier RB at 1.06 instead of Droughns. There you have it. This is what people think of Ruben Droughns at this time. Funny thing is, if he does end up the starter, he's sitting there with Suggs and Green. Now that is funny. Of course I don't really need Droughns on my team, thus the reason I offered a very good trade to him. People fall so in love with draft picks. Of course at 1.06 and Mike Williams already on my team from last year, you would think the 1.09 and Droughns is better than the 1.06. The only reason I posted this offer, is to give an idea of what people think of Droughns, even with the possibility he starts in Cleveland.

 

[Zman800]

is that a freakin' joke? Have the Broncos confused the 2004 Browns with the '76 Steelers? Why are they trying to bring over the entire Cleveland Defensive line??

I hope so.:Brownsfan:

 

[Zman800]

When is the last time a Cleveland RB ran for 1000 yrds?.... Nuff' said.

I don't understand this kind of logic. Teams aren't resigned to their pasts. When was the last time the 49ers lost 14 games in a season? Cleveland may have a terrible track record with RBs, but that doesn't guarantee anything about the future, particularly when you're talking about a new front office and a new coaching staff.

Fine then.... When's the last time Cleveland did anything productive?

"Firing" Butch Davis.At least I find that move of him "resigning" productive.

I don't see how the Savage/Crennel combo could by any worse than what Davis did.

 

[ExtraPoint]

They want a power back and receiving/speed back in Cleveland. Simuliar to Antowain Smith and Kevin Faulk. Droughns is likely going to replace Green and the power back. As for what the split will be we can only guess. Is Suggs Kevin Faulk or is Droughns Mike Alstott? The article suggest Suggs is still the starter. Suggs previously received a vote of confidence from the coaching staff. Those things mean nothing though once these guys get to training camp. What we have now is little different than what we had last year with Suggs and Green. Though the rest of the team looks a lot different.At least we now even more aware that the Browns wont draft one of the big 3 running backs, Tatum Bell is an undervalued stud, and Green will be playing somewhere else.

 

[Zman800]

All hail to the mighty Shannahan for making yet another steal of a trade  (if Ekuban is does not lose a leg in the rehab process.)  Droughns for Ekhuban and Myers?  Romeo better go back to NE, man.  Droughns will be another Olandis Gary at best w/o the Denver line, who can make my grandma into a top 10 back.  Browns is quickly surging on my 2005 worst team list.

Shouldn't they have been there after the 2004 season to start with ?So now they have improved their O-line and traded or released players that were not productive so how does this make them "surge" further up the worst teams list for 2005 ?

Let's see how Warren and Courtney Brown work out for Denver before you hail Skeletor the Master who, traded Portis for Champ Bailey the shut down corner and still was roasted by Manning in the playoffs.

Not to mention Chad Johnson lighting up Bailey and Denver earlier in the year.

 

[tunaboys]

well, when I say bad I'm thinking clev is worse than the 49ers, worse than fish (miami) bad. first of all, dude, the browns could get more, maybe not 2nd rnd pick more, but ekuban and myers are worth something. Droughns's got great high school talent. (I do give him credit for overachieving the way he did.)second, who ever thinks that champ and a pick for portis is not a steal is nuts. Despite what ABC MNF highlights you saw, Champ's a top corner. those are worth a lot more than a top back. And to say that Champ played badly against the Colts, that's just not fair. Deion from 1994 could have played in that game and not make a diff.

 

[diesel7982]

All hail to the mighty Shannahan for making yet another steal of a trade  (if Ekuban is does not lose a leg in the rehab process.)  Droughns for Ekhuban and Myers?  Romeo better go back to NE, man.  Droughns will be another Olandis Gary at best w/o the Denver line, who can make my grandma into a top 10 back.  Browns is quickly surging on my 2005 worst team list.

Shouldn't they have been there after the 2004 season to start with ?So now they have improved their O-line and traded or released players that were not productive so how does this make them "surge" further up the worst teams list for 2005 ?

Let's see how Warren and Courtney Brown work out for Denver before you hail Skeletor the Master who, traded Portis for Champ Bailey the shut down corner and still was roasted by Manning in the playoffs.

Not to mention Chad Johnson lighting up Bailey and Denver earlier in the year.

A pro-bowl WR lit someone up? Egads Denver had no coverage ability from its saftey positions last year. Contrary to what alot of people who don't look at film think, when Bailey was beat deep last year, especially in the Oakland game, it was often Lynch or Kennedy who was getting beat by not getting to their position in the zone when Bailey was covering short.

Bailey is one of the best Cbs in the league, and further, getting him AND Tatum Bell for Portis with the type of deal he wanted was a brilliant trade. But thats as much Sundquist's doing as it was Shanny's.

I really don't understand why Denver has acquired 3/4s of CLE's DL though...yeah, they were all cheap, but still, ick. DIdnt they learn about signing low character guys from the Gardner and Carter signings?

 

[Bri]

Droughns played FB and can block. The Browns haven't protected the QB well since they returned to the NFL. Droughns-Gary comparison is unfair IMO since Droughns didn't wreck his knee twice.On a team with new coaches and many new players I don't think anyone is a sure starter.I think Droughns is workman-like and not a star. I like the Antowain comparisons. I don't know that Cleveland has their runningback yet. This may just be to get them thru. You don't build an NFL team in one year. Suppose they plan to spend some money on one in 06, now they have a backup FB and RB. IIRC he returned kicks early on in his career too. I think he's a useful player. In that usefulness sorta way, the kind BB would appreciate so I'm glad to see Romeo signing such a player.

 

[Jason Wood]

The trade is CONFIRMED via Len P at ESPN.

The article suggests Droughns will be Suggs' backup, but take that for what it's worth, which at this point isn't much.

So Len Pasquerelli reports that Droughns is the backup and Suggs it the starter. What evidence would you suggest leads to the contrary?

Hey Sammy, because it was clearly Len P's opinion. You'll find no bigger fan of Len P and the ESPN crew, I think most of the time he does a great job. But when you read an article like this, you have to separate journalistic opinion from statement of fact. If Crennel, Savage, Droughns', his agent, anyone connected to the situation directly had said "Droughs is coming in to back up Suggs" Len P would've either cited the source OR quoted it as an unnamed source. Yet, as you see in the article, he's merely stating it in his own monologue; quite different.And honestly that makes sense. There's no incentive for Crennel or Savage to declare Suggs or Droughns the starter before they've even had mini camp. The coaching staff hasn't even seen these guys work out. Neither knows the new offense being installed. By virtue of being on the roster already, you might make the case that Suggs enters camp listed as RB1, but there's no debating it's written in pencil.

 

[Family Matters]

I think the debate of the starter is, will be or thought to be will be decided on the field for the Browns. Keep in mind there are no wgos on this one. Neither was drafted by any coach/GM there now so onbody's ego, er uh football accum is going to be at risk.The starter will be whomever the coaches feel is the best RB. Including anyone they draft in April.

 

[ravnzfan]

All hail to the mighty Shannahan for making yet another steal of a trade  (if Ekuban is does not lose a leg in the rehab process.)  Droughns for Ekhuban and Myers?  Romeo better go back to NE, man.  Droughns will be another Olandis Gary at best w/o the Denver line, who can make my grandma into a top 10 back.  Browns is quickly surging on my 2005 worst team list.

clue-f*n-less......DEN is now "all in" with 1/2 of the defensive line ranked dead last in '04 w/145 yds per game against and 32nd in rushing TD's allowed w/22

if Shanny thinks the Q and Tatum Bell are going to do the job running the ball, you'd better get your granny some gear...together those guys can't stay healthy enough to start 16 games, let alone have one (Bell) be anointed the starter

w/the run Defense LT faces w/Oak, KC and now Denver twice each, he is a full 2 tiers ahead of any other running back out there

Phil Savage will now dump Green in a continued house cleaning of players that just don't fit his mold---off field, as well as on

I don't see Droughns running out of the FB spot, as this move is clearly one securing a starter--for whatever reason, Savage isn't sold on Suggs as 'the guy'

 

[-OZ-]

Could this actually hurt Suggs, Bell and Droughn's value, all at the same time?With Droughns gone, who is the Denver backup? Seeing none that I'd feel comfortable with, they may sign one or draft one, and he just might beat Bell out A Train would be a great fit here, as would Barber, Morency, and a few others, with the depth at RB this year, even a 4th rounder might find a way to get on the field. Now, if Bell was the starter, he could get hurt anyway, and there's very few backup RB roles more valuable than Denver's - maybe KC's, and of course there's some rookies people love, but as a general rule, Denver is the place to get a backup RB. If Droughns doesn't start in Cleveland, his value is actually less than it would have been. (Now, his chance to start increases, so for now his value increases, but if Suggs wins, his value is lower) then Crennel might utilize RBBC, as Suggs and Droughns are sufficiently different players, each bringing something unique to the team. I have Rubes in one large league, and I'm hoping for the best (He's the only RB I have with a fair chance to start), but I'm reserving my excitement for now.

 

[JohnnyU]

Just because I'm a nice guy and in a good mood, I offered a guy in one of my leagues Droughns and the 1.09 rookie pick for the 1.06 and Mn def.  He has Suggs and Green.  I think I'm being generous, but that's the type of guy I am   

Edited to say he turned it down.  Wow, I guess he would rather have a 2nd tier RB at 1.06 instead of Droughns.  There you have it.  This is what people think of Ruben Droughns at this time.  Funny thing is, if he does end up the starter, he's sitting there with Suggs and Green.  Now that is funny.  Of course I don't really need Droughns on my team, thus the reason I offered a very good trade to him.  People fall so in love with draft picks.  Of course at 1.06 and Mike Williams already on my team from last year, you would think the 1.09 and Droughns is better than the 1.06.  The only reason I posted this offer, is to give an idea of what people think of Droughns, even with the possibility he starts in Cleveland.

 

[wadegarrett]

All hail to the mighty Shannahan for making yet another steal of a trade  (if Ekuban is does not lose a leg in the rehab process.)  Droughns for Ekhuban and Myers?  Romeo better go back to NE, man.  Droughns will be another Olandis Gary at best w/o the Denver line, who can make my grandma into a top 10 back.  Browns is quickly surging on my 2005 worst team list.

clue-f*n-less......DEN is now "all in" with 1/2 of the defensive line ranked dead last in '04 w/145 yds per game against and 32nd in rushing TD's allowed w/22

if Shanny thinks the Q and Tatum Bell are going to do the job running the ball, you'd better get your granny some gear...together those guys can't stay healthy enough to start 16 games, let alone have one (Bell) be anointed the starter

w/the run Defense LT faces w/Oak, KC and now Denver twice each, he is a full 2 tiers ahead of any other running back out there

Phil Savage will now dump Green in a continued house cleaning of players that just don't fit his mold---off field, as well as on

I don't see Droughns running out of the FB spot, as this move is clearly one securing a starter--for whatever reason, Savage isn't sold on Suggs as 'the guy'

 

[djcolts]

This trade has radically changed my strategy for my 14-team keeper/auction league. Actually, this offseason has already had three "major" effects on my team:1. K Collins is my backup to McNabb - now I've got to keep him as well for value (there's only two QB spots, and exactly two for each team).2. Muhammed was signed by the freaking Bears. :X 3. I had Suggs AND Droughns on my team (D Davis is my other probable returning RB - there's only 4 and exactly 4 RB spots for each team). Now I likely have to keep both - meaning I've got to bid heavy on one RB in the draft (rookie or non-kept).

 

[IvanKaramazov]

I think the debate of the starter is, will be or thought to be will be decided on the field for the Browns. Keep in mind there are no wgos on this one. Neither was drafted by any coach/GM there now so onbody's ego, er uh football accum is going to be at risk.

Didn't this coaching/personnel staff inherit Suggs but voluntarily trade for Droughns?

 

[Iwannabeacowboybaby!]

Looks to me like Denver will be looking for a RB in the draft. Griffin and Bell haven't proven anything except that they can get hurt during a game so I expect a RB to be drafted.I like that trade for Denver though, defense wins championships and they need help.RBBC in Cleveland all the way. You can't compare Droughns numbers to anyone on Cleveland, they had completely different lines. Droughns is no better than Suggs. It's going to be UGLY when thinking about drafting a Cleveland back this year.

 

[Colin Dowling]

Looks to me like Denver will be looking for a RB in the draft. Griffin and Bell haven't proven anything except that they can get hurt during a game so I expect a RB to be drafted.

I like that trade for Denver though, defense wins championships and they need help.

RBBC in Cleveland all the way. You can't compare Droughns numbers to anyone on Cleveland, they had completely different lines. Droughns is no better than Suggs. It's going to be UGLY when thinking about drafting a Cleveland back this year.

I agree on all counts. I think Denver could grab someone on the first day that immediately throws everything in to shambles from a FF perspective.Colin

 

[Jason Wood]

Let's remember that Mike Shanahan is a master of drafting RBs in the mid to late rounds that suit his system AND he seems to love hoarding them. Combine that with a very deep draft at the RB position, I would say it's quite likely he'll draft a RB this April. Whether they have the goods to compete with Bell will remains to be seen.

 

[Mr.Happy]

is that a freakin' joke? Have the Broncos confused the 2004 Browns with the '76 Steelers? Why are they trying to bring over the entire Cleveland Defensive line??

I hope so.:Brownsfan:

Your a Browns fan? No wonder they have been sucking for the past 6 years. Go jinx someone else.

 

[BGP]

Thoughts:1. The Browns haven't had a 1000 yard rusher in 20 years. One could say past performance is no guarantee of future returns. However, Romeo Crennel doesn't have a track record of success as a head coach, either. And let's face it, most head coaches fail. If the Browns had hired **** Vermiel, I could feel much more positive that the Browns running game would become dominant because he has proven that he knows what he is doing in that regard. This is not to say that you shouldn't give a guy who has never been a head coach before a shot -- you just can't assume success will follow.2. I wouldn't get too excited about Droughns-for-Ekuban. The Browns haven't invested a whole lot into Droughns at all. Its possible that the Browns will draft an RB anyway, and are just getting Droughns now "just in case". The Browns could cut Droughns before training camp and it wouldn't really matter.3. The problem with Gerard Warren and Courtney Brown was not that they were horrible football players. Its not like they are the DL equivalent of Ryan Leaf. These guys will hold down a job in the NFL somewhere. They just were not worth their draft position and especially their salary in Cleveland. If they go to Denver and play for a modest salary, they could be a nice addition. And that's what its all about in the NFL - the salary cap -- not overpaying for players.

 

[mr blond]

Thoughts:

1.  The Browns haven't had a 1000 yard rusher in 20 years.  One could say past performance is no guarantee of future returns.  However, Romeo Crennel doesn't have a track record of success as a head coach, either.  And let's face it, most head coaches fail.  If the Browns had hired **** Vermiel, I could feel much more positive that the Browns running game would become dominant because he has proven that he knows what he is doing in that regard.  This is not to say that you shouldn't give a guy who has never been a head coach before a shot -- you just can't assume success will follow.

2.  I wouldn't get too excited about Droughns-for-Ekuban.  The Browns haven't invested a whole lot into Droughns at all.  Its possible that the Browns will draft an RB anyway, and are just getting Droughns now "just in case".  The Browns could cut Droughns before training camp and it wouldn't really matter.

3.  The problem with Gerard Warren and Courtney Brown was not that they were horrible football players.  Its not like they are the DL equivalent of Ryan Leaf.  These guys will hold down a job in the NFL somewhere.  They just were not worth their draft position and especially their salary in Cleveland.  If they go to Denver and play for a modest salary, they could be a nice addition.  And that's what its all about in the NFL - the salary cap -- not overpaying for players.

Just to add - Given the direction the Browns have gone in FA, I feel more confident in the Browns running game from a fantasy perspective. Even bad coaches (which i don't feel Crennel will be) can have RB's that put up good fantasy numbers.

 

[nightshift]

Let's remember that Mike Shanahan is a master of drafting RBs in the mid to late rounds that suit his system AND he seems to love hoarding them. Combine that with a very deep draft at the RB position, I would say it's quite likely he'll draft a RB this April. Whether they have the goods to compete with Bell will remains to be seen.

Bell owners should be wary. Denver will draft a RB, what remain is who & where. A first day pick-up and I think you will see open competition for the starting position.

 

[rebel34]

From the blog:

Mar 30, 2005, 08:55

Browns - RB Droughns' Starting Job Hinges On Physical

Jeff Legwold, Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News - [Full Article]

All that stands between RB Reuben Droughns and the starting tailback job is the Broncos medical staff. If Browns DE Ebenezer Ekuban passes his physical with the Broncos, Ekuban is scheduled to come to Denver. And Droughns immediately becomes the Browns' first option in the running game. Newly hired Browns HC Romeo Crennel emphasized at the NFL meetings last week he wanted a more physical running game.

 

[The Boss]

Let's remember that Mike Shanahan is a master of drafting RBs in the mid to late rounds that suit his system

Yeah, which is why he drafted Bell....how quickly we forget. Sure Denver will draft a RB for additional depth. Last year they not only drafted Bell in the 2nd but drafted Brandon Miree on day two of the draft. It's called depth. Bell is slated to get his time in the spotlight now.

 

[IvanKaramazov]

From the blog:

Mar 30, 2005, 08:55

Browns - RB Droughns' Starting Job Hinges On Physical

Jeff Legwold, Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News - [Full Article]

All that stands between RB Reuben Droughns and the starting tailback job is the Broncos medical staff. If Browns DE Ebenezer Ekuban passes his physical with the Broncos, Ekuban is scheduled to come to Denver. And Droughns immediately becomes the Browns' first option in the running game. Newly hired Browns HC Romeo Crennel emphasized at the NFL meetings last week he wanted a more physical running game.

I think that needs to be taken with a grain of salt coming from the Rocky Mountain News.That said, I'll probably be avoiding this situation this summer.

 

[The Boss]

From the blog:

Mar 30, 2005, 08:55

Browns - RB Droughns' Starting Job Hinges On Physical

Jeff Legwold, Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News - [Full Article]

All that stands between RB Reuben Droughns and the starting tailback job is the Broncos medical staff. If Browns DE Ebenezer Ekuban passes his physical with the Broncos, Ekuban is scheduled to come to Denver. And Droughns immediately becomes the Browns' first option in the running game. Newly hired Browns HC Romeo Crennel emphasized at the NFL meetings last week he wanted a more physical running game.

I think that needs to be taken with a grain of salt coming from the Rocky Mountain News.That said, I'll probably be avoiding this situation this summer.

As anything that says Lee Suggs is the starter needs to be taken with a grain of salt. This my friends will be a training camp showdown, and at this point I'd have to give the edge to Droughns because he seems to fit the profile of RB that Romeo Crennell is looking for---a no-nonsense move the chains back.

 

[JohnnyU]

From the blog:

Mar 30, 2005, 08:55

Browns - RB Droughns' Starting Job Hinges On Physical

Jeff Legwold, Lee Rasizer, Rocky Mountain News - [Full Article]

All that stands between RB Reuben Droughns and the starting tailback job is the Broncos medical staff. If Browns DE Ebenezer Ekuban passes his physical with the Broncos, Ekuban is scheduled to come to Denver. And Droughns immediately becomes the Browns' first option in the running game. Newly hired Browns HC Romeo Crennel emphasized at the NFL meetings last week he wanted a more physical running game.

I think that needs to be taken with a grain of salt coming from the Rocky Mountain News.That said, I'll probably be avoiding this situation this summer.

Those who take this type of news with a grain of salt, are the one's who are left holding the backup and not the starter 9 times out 10, IMO. It merits caution either way.