Steelers Offseason Thread (1 Viewer)

[Frenchy Fuqua]

Some more good info from PFW:Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger reportedly will spend time in the offseason in Pittsburgh learning more about NFL defenses from defensive coordinator **** LeBeau. This news drew raves from at least one source close to the team, who has no doubt Roethlisberger will improve after a tough finish to his rookie season. The way we hear it, Steelers CB Chad Scott is likely to be cut in the offseason. Scott began the 2004 season as the starter at the LCB spot, but he suffered a quadriceps injury in October and could not take back hisstarting job from Willie Williams once he returned. Scott is due $3.885million in salary in 2005 and $4.297 million in '06. A Pittsburgh molebelieves Ricardo Colclough and Deshea Townsend will be the Steelers'starting cornerbacks next season. Williams, an organization favorite who will be an unrestricted free agent in March, could come back if the price is right.

 

[Chitown Mole]

Do any of you guys have a good feel for who is the better back long term.....Verron Haynes, or Duce Staley there in Pittsburgh? I have a guy offering me Staley but I liked the little of what I saw in Haynes. Can one or two of the Pittsburgh homers give me any thoughts?Thanks,V

 

[Irish]

I really like the way Haynes plays when he plays. He is a tough runner who can also catch the ball, but the problem so far in his short career is his lack of ability to stay healthy while being the 3rd down back.

 

[gman74]

As long as Bill Cowher is coaching this team in the playoffs, the Steelers don't worry me. I think he graduated from the Tony Dungy / Marty Schottenheimer school of playoff coaching.

Have to add Barry Switzer to the list of better coaches than Cower. At least he won a superbowl. Sorry steeler fan

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I really like the way Haynes plays when he plays. He is a tough runner who can also catch the ball, but the problem so far in his short career is his lack of ability to stay healthy while being the 3rd down back.

Agreed. I don't think Haynes is the back of the future. If Bettis retires, they draft a "feature back" in this year's draft. If not, they wait a year, IMO. I think Willie Parker has a better chance of being an every down back and a fantasy threat than Verron Haynes does.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

As long as Bill Cowher is coaching this team in the playoffs, the Steelers don't worry me.  I think he graduated from the Tony Dungy / Marty Schottenheimer school of playoff coaching.

Have to add Barry Switzer to the list of better coaches than Cower. At least he won a superbowl. Sorry steeler fan

I can't even dignify this with a response.

 

[gman74]

As long as Bill Cowher is coaching this team in the playoffs, the Steelers don't worry me. I think he graduated from the Tony Dungy / Marty Schottenheimer school of playoff coaching.

Have to add Barry Switzer to the list of better coaches than Cower. At least he won a superbowl. Sorry steeler fan

I can't even dignify this with a response.

Would you agree that Holmgrin,Vermiel,Gruden,Etc are better coaches I think most people would. You always hear the best player to never win a ring, a major.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

As long as Bill Cowher is coaching this team in the playoffs, the Steelers don't worry me.  I think he graduated from the Tony Dungy / Marty Schottenheimer school of playoff coaching.

Have to add Barry Switzer to the list of better coaches than Cower. At least he won a superbowl. Sorry steeler fan

I can't even dignify this with a response.

Would you agree that Holmgrin,Vermiel,Gruden,Etc are better coaches I think most people would. You always hear the best player to never win a ring, a major.

No, I don't agree. I'd take Cowher over Holmgren, Vermeil, and Gruden. Each of those guys has done solid jobs of taking talented teams to titles at some point, but none of them has had any consistency. Holmgren has done squat with a very talented Seattle team in a weak NFC and has been on the hot seat, Vermeil bolted to KC and has taken that team absolutely nowhere, and Gruden won a title with Dungy's players and since has coached that team into mediocrity (with help from the front office.) None of them has done as solid a job consistently as Cowher has. Cowher will eventually win it all, and when he does, he will FLY past these guys based on his year-in, year-out success.

 

[gman74]

So your saying that you would not give up a superbowl loss and afc champ loss and a some division titles for a superbowl win?

 

[jurb26]

Lots of mindless chatter in this thread, but I just can't stop laughing at how BGP has dissappeared from the thread. :rotflmao: I agree with whoever said this was Cowher's most impressive season to date. This team had no right going 15-1 IMO. Great run though and things are looking good for next year.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

So your saying that you would not give up a superbowl loss and afc champ loss and a some division titles for a superbowl win?

If you're asking whether I would rather win one Super Bowl and then suck for the rest of the decade, or whether I'd be in the playoffs 8 times and never win it all, I would take the latter.My weekend, my week, my month, my winter is made by the Steelers. Every time they lose, it stings.... it affects me more than it probably should, but that's what being a Steeler fan is all about. If they win 100 games in a decade and never win it all, I'd still rather root for them than a team like Tampa Bay who won it all once and sucks 8 out of every 10 years outside of that.Bottom line - I'm glad I'm a Steelers fan and not a Ravens fan (no offense to the Ravens or their fans - you are respected rivals). Sure, they won the big prize once, but the Steelers beat them more often than not. People sometimes lose sight of other accomplishments in this "winner-take-all" attitude we've fostered.

 

[Bill]

If you're asking whether I would rather win one Super Bowl and then suck for the rest of the decade, or whether I'd be in the playoffs 8 times and never win it all, I would take the latter.

My weekend, my week, my month, my winter is made by the Steelers. Every time they lose, it stings.... it affects me more than it probably should, but that's what being a Steeler fan is all about. If they win 100 games in a decade and never win it all, I'd still rather root for them than a team like Tampa Bay who won it all once and sucks 8 out of every 10 years outside of that.

Bottom line - I'm glad I'm a Steelers fan and not a Ravens fan (no offense to the Ravens or their fans - you are respected rivals). Sure, they won the big prize once, but the Steelers beat them more often than not. People sometimes lose sight of other accomplishments in this "winner-take-all" attitude we've fostered.

after reading this post evil, i now have to say that cowher is the perfect coach for the steelers. i really feel he shares your exact philosophy. he's happy just getting to the playoffs. he'd rather achieve that every other year than actually winning the SB some day. like someone posted earlier-i'd never fear playing the steelers in the playoffs as long as cowher is their coach.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

cowher is the perfect coach for the steelers. i really feel he shares your exact philosophy. he's happy just getting to the playoffs. he'd rather achieve that every other year than actually winning the SB some day.

You make no sense. Neither Cowher nor I am satisfied with JUST making it to the playoffs, but we both (I assume) feel that a good team is built for long-term success, not to win once and self-destruct. If you think Cowher's ultimate goal is to make the playoffs every other year and never win a Super Bowl, you're completely out of your mind. However, I am NOT going to rip the guy for taking a 6-10 team last year and winning 17 games this year. The current Pats are the best team we've seen in the NFL since at least the mid-90s Cowboys... were it not for that team, the Steelers would likely have the Lombardi Trophy right now. There's no shame in what they accomplished this year, and they are in a very good position going forward. Say what you want about Cowher, but I think he's a good coach, and I firmly believe he is as hungry to win a title as any coach in the NFL. To say otherwise is foolish.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

Much as we suspected... sounds like Bettis will re-sign, Plaxico is gone, and the Steelers won't be adding any big $ free agents.

Bettis, Steelers start talks on new contract

Tuesday, February 22, 2005

By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Jerome Bettis may be leaning toward returning to play for the Steelers next season, provided the sides can work out a new contract.

The Steelers have exchanged proposals with Bettis' agent.

Bettis is contemplating whether he wants to retire. In the meantime, the Steelers would have to reduce his salary of $4.484 million by March 2 or possibly release him because they will be above the NFL's salary cap.

Lamont Smith, Bettis' agent, said last night that he hopes a contract could be worked and that the Steelers would not release Bettis.

"To release him would change the dynamics of this whole thing," Smith said.

If the Steelers and Bettis can reach a new contract agreement, Bettis is expected to play in 2005.

In another matter, the Steelers likely won't protect Plaxico Burress from becoming a free agent when the deadline rolls around to designate their "franchise" player at 4 p.m. today.

The Steelers will have to release some players before March 2 to comply with the NFL salary cap that goes into effect starting that day.

Each team's salary cap should rise to around $85 million for 2005, up from $80.582 million last year, when the new figure is calculated soon. Despite the increase, the Steelers would be over the cap unless they cut salaries or players in the next week.

At least two veterans affected by this are cornerback Chad Scott and Bettis. Both could be released before March 2, although in Bettis' case it might not be final. Today is the first day veterans can be released.

Bettis currently counts $5.484 million against their cap, which includes $1 million from a prorated signing bonus. The Steelers could release him next week and then sign him to a new contract later, if he decides to play again. Last season, he took a pay cut of nearly $2.7 million to play for $1 million, but he did so before the March 2 deadline.

The Steelers would prefer to have a new contract with Bettis in place before March 2 even if he later decides to retire.

Bettis said in Jacksonville, Fla., the week of the Super Bowl that he wanted to return to Pittsburgh and speak with coach Bill Cowher before he makes his decision about retirement in "three or four weeks." He has not yet done that. Cowher and his staff will leave this week for the NFL scouting combine, which runs from Thursday through next Tuesday in Indianapolis.

Scott is scheduled to earn a salary of $3,885,000 in 2005 and count a little move than $4 million against the team's cap. He is signed through 2006. Mason Ashe, Scott's agent, said yesterday the Steelers have not informed him of any plans they might have for Scott, whether it would be to release him or ask him to take a pay cut. Ashe noted they did not inform him before they released another of his clients, linebacker Levon Kirkland, early in 2001.

Kevin Colbert, the Steelers' director of football operations, declined comment yesterday on any aspects of free agency. Colbert and his scouts also will leave for the NFL scouting combine today.

The Steelers have the option to put the franchise player tag on Burress today, but that would cost them $7,768,000 in a one-year deal. That represents the average of the top five salaries of wide receivers in the league. Unless the Steelers work some financial magic over the next week, that would not fit under their cap.

Each team can freeze one potential free agent by making him a franchise player. The Steelers have used the tag judiciously in the past, on tight end Eric Green in 1994 and linebacker Jason Gildon in 2002. Gildon eventually signed a long-term contract and did not play under the one-year franchise deal. The Steelers released him in June 2004.

The Steelers were $80,000 under the salary cap in the first half of last season before they reworked some contracts to free up $500,000.

They long have known they would be over the cap for 2005 and would have to release players or rework contracts. But their cap was further reduced because more players earned more incentives in 2004 than expected and that will count against their 2005 cap. Those so-called "unlikely to be earned" incentives from 2004 will reduce their salary cap by about $5 million more than they had once thought.

Their salary cap situation also should prevent them from pursuing many free agents this year.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(Ed Bouchette can be reached at ebouchette@post-gazette.com or 412-263-3878.)

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Chad Scott is a goner, plain and simple. I agree with Frenchy, I think Bettis comes to terms and is re-signed to a new deal. Plax will walk and the Steelers will evaluate their options whether it's re-signing Plax to a new deal with less of a 2005 cap hit than the franchise tage would carry, signing a second-tier free agent (I think their cap situation would prevent them from pursuing Porter, Coles, or Mason,) simply elevating Randle-El to the SE role and moving Lee Mays or a draft pick into the slot, or going after a big wideout in the draft to fill Burress' spot.

 

[Macdaddy_2004]

I'd love to see Lav Coles in a Pitts uniformhim and Ben would have a field day

 

[apalmer]

Chad Scott is a goner, plain and simple. I agree with Frenchy, I think Bettis comes to terms and is re-signed to a new deal. Plax will walk and the Steelers will evaluate their options whether it's re-signing Plax to a new deal with less of a 2005 cap hit than the franchise tage would carry, signing a second-tier free agent (I think their cap situation would prevent them from pursuing Porter, Coles, or Mason,) simply elevating Randle-El to the SE role and moving Lee Mays or a draft pick into the slot, or going after a big wideout in the draft to fill Burress' spot.

The secret may be to get in on the FA WR's early while the market is saturated. With so many big names available, it's a buyer's market. However, once a couple of them sign, I would think the price starts to go back up.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

I think historically the top FAs go the earliest. The Steelers best bet is to wait and hope that a few WRs are without teams when the music stops. I think if they target any WR in FA it would be a guy like Joey Galloway or David Patten. Guys that can fill a need for minimal $. Fortunately the draft is deep at WR, if nothing else they may be able to land a guy like Mark Clayton or Roddy White late in the first.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

Some random Steelers notes from the local media this weekend-G writer Gerry Dulac believes the Steelers first three picks in the draft will be (in no particular order): D-End, WR, and TE.Tonight KDKA sports anchor Bob Pompeani said that the Steelers contacted Ty Law's agent and are said to be one of four teams bidding for his services. Can't see the Steelers getting Law unless he is offering a hometown discount.Pompeani also mentioned that the Steelers are "shopping" Tommy Maddox. Can't see a big market for Maddox although his cap figures are low.On the Sunday Sports Showdown there was some discussion that the Steelers may cut an older player or two, Kimo von Oelhoeffen and Jeff Hartings were the two brought up in discussion. Kimo will make nearly $3 million in 2005 and Hartings nearly $5.5 million.

 

[Godsbrother]

Some random Steelers notes from the local media this weekend:

P-G writer Gerry Dulac believes the Steelers first three picks in the draft will be (in no particular order): D-End, WR, and TE.

Those are the Steelers biggest need positions so it makes sense

Tonight KDKA sports anchor Bob Pompeani said that the Steelers contacted Ty Law's agent and are said to be one of four teams bidding for his services. Can't see the Steelers getting Law unless he is offering a hometown discount.

I do not see Ty Law come to Pittsburgh. Law is going to want top dollar and the Steelers don't have the cap room to sign him. On the other hand I think Law is going to find that the market isn't as good as he hoped it would be.

Pompeani also mentioned that the Steelers are "shopping" Tommy Maddox. Can't see a big market for Maddox although his cap figures are low.

Ridiculous. First off, who would to trade for Maddox with the number of FA QBs available? Secondly, Batch is gone and there is no indication that the Steelers believe that St. Pierre will ever be their #2. Heck, he was cut at least twice last season. The Steelers like Maddox and Maddox has already said he is comfortable as #2.

On the Sunday Sports Showdown there was some discussion that the Steelers may cut an older player or two, Kimo von Oelhoeffen and Jeff Hartings were the two brought up in discussion. Kimo will make nearly $3 million in 2005 and Hartings nearly $5.5 million.

I could see cutting Kimo more than Hartings. The Steelers will probably lose Oliver Ross and Keydrick Vincent to FA and I doubt they'll want to lose another offensive lineman. Kimo is slowing down a bit but do they think that Kirschke is ready to step in? I guess we'll see...

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I could see cutting Kimo more than Hartings. The Steelers will probably lose Oliver Ross and Keydrick Vincent to FA and I doubt they'll want to lose another offensive lineman. Kimo is slowing down a bit but do they think that Kirschke is ready to step in? I guess we'll see...

Agree with your entire post, as usual.Particularly this. Am I the only one that would be a little nervous going into the year with 3 of 5 OL positions featuring new starters? The continuity and team play of the line was THE #1 reason why the Steelers were as successful as they were last year...

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I'm sure everyone has seen this already, but Bettis agreed to another pay cut and will play at least one more season with the Steelers. Talk about a team guy... damn. The guy continues to take pay cuts, accept back-up roles, yet is always ready to strap it on and do whatever the team needs when called upon. I love this man, as much as you can love someone in a non-sexual way. Impact : likely means the Steelers bypass the RB position in the draft this year unless someone really strikes their fansy. It might not surprise me to see them take a day 2 shot at a guy like Brandon Jacobs of S. Illinois, who was an Auburn recruit and ran a 4.59 40 (same as Mike Williams) but as 262 lbs. He could be another Bettis if he has decent footwork (I've never seen him play.) As meantioned earlier, I think this all but cements DE, WR, and either TE or OT as the priorities on day 1.

 

[Bloom]

i like the idea of the steelers bringing bobby shaw back as their WR3 for next year. he should be CHEAP and flourished in pittsburgh when he was there before.As far as the draft, im not sure why we would go TE early, before say the 4th round. we can get by with good blocking TEs who can catch a play action 1 yarder at the goal line when we need them to. a guy like kevin everett i could see taking in the 3rd, but thats about it. the steelers offense just does not emphasize receiving from the TE, but it could be a chicken-or-egg thing since we havent had anyone who could do damage from the TE position since eric green.DE is a huge need, but i dont a 3-4 DE who will be available at 30 and worth it. maybe shaun cody will fall, or we might possibly draft a patterson/hawthorne/mosley with designs on converting them to a 3/4 DE. More likely, i see us filling this position in round 2.WR is another need, but again, i dont see a guy who will be there at 30 who is worth the pick. MAYBE a guy like mathis/brown/gibson if one of them really impresses, or roddy white if he lasts til 30. Again, the 2nd round may be a better place to take a WR.I want us to take the best Olineman available at 30. we have depth on the Oline right now, but that will change with the imminent departure of the right side of our line, and possible cut of hartings. even if we keep hartings, we should build depth now. if simmons has a clean bill of health from his diabetes problems, then maybe you lower the priority, but barring that, i want the best Olineman left at 30 - adam terry, david baas, elton brown, i dont care the position, just build that depth. the Oline is the most important unit on the steelers.

 

[Bloom]

as far as the RB slot, i dont know how the steelers can pass on kay jay harris if he is still there in the 3rd. nehemiah broughton is also an intriguing bruiser at RB who has tremendous speed for a big guy. I would still like to see us take an RB this year because the class is so deep, and the value will be there well into the 2nd day. jacobs i see being converted to a pass rushing DE with that size and speed.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

The more I see/hear about Baas, the more I think he may be the round 1 pick. He would be a perfect fit on their line.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

Looking at the Steelers O-line I think they are set at the starting positions.LT- Marvel Smith- 2005 Pro BowlerLG- Alan Faneca- 2005 Pro BowlerC- Jeff Hartings- 2005 Pro Bowler, may be asked to take a pay cut. Back-up Chucky Okobi making big money for a reserve.RG- Kendall Simmons- former 1st round pick, when healthy is very good.RT- Max Starks- 3rd round pick last year. Steelers are high on him but he is a big question mark.Starters lost-RT- Oliver Ross- Serviceable but not great. Steelers would probably love to re-sign him as insurance at RT and RG.RG- Keydrick Vincent- big, solid run blocker. Not likely to return.Obviously Ross and Vicent were big, solid run blockers but I think Simmons and Starks are viewed as more athletic all-around blockers. As often as Roethlisberger was sacked last year Simmons and Starks may be an upgrade there. The key with an O-line is maintaining health. With more pressing needs at other poitions I'm not sure we can afford to draft an O-lineman in round 1 with the idea that he is our top back-up. All of the Steelers starters are signed for the next few years and Hartings will likely be replaced by Okobi. I think the Steelers are more likely to sign a FA bargain or two on the OL than spend an early pick there.I think DE and WR are both pretty deep in a weak draft, I'd be suprised if those weren't their first two picks.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I think DE and WR are both pretty deep in a weak draft, I'd be suprised if those weren't their first two picks.

You may be right. I think it will depend on who is there at #30. If a Shaun Cody or (if a miracle happens) Marcus Spears falls to #30, I think they grab him in a flash. Otherwise, it could be Troy Williamson if he's around. It's going to be a very interesting draft..no question.I think the line has potential to be even better than last year, IF everything goes right. I have not seen enough of Starks on the NFL level to know if he can handle speed rushers, and Simmons is a HUGE wild-card because of his injuries/sickness. I think they'll be all right there, but I would NOT mind seeing them take a guy like Baas in round 1. I think he's going to be the best lineman to come out of this draft, and will be a steal where he is eventually chosen.

 

[Barry Jive and The Uptown Five]

as far as the RB slot, i dont know how the steelers can pass on kay jay harris if he is still there in the 3rd. nehemiah broughton is also an intriguing bruiser at RB who has tremendous speed for a big guy. I would still like to see us take an RB this year because the class is so deep, and the value will be there well into the 2nd day. jacobs i see being converted to a pass rushing DE with that size and speed.

I tell ya, the back that really has me salivating at the thought of him in the black & gold is Marion Barber. He will definitely be a Day 1 pick. He might be there at the end of 3. This draft is so stacked with quality RBs it may very well drive them lower in the count as teams address other needs knowing they can come back and get a quality back to begin the second day.Remember a couple years ago, 2003:

4.02 Pinner (RB7)

4.04 D.Davis (RB8)

4.08 O.Smith (RB9)

4.11 Q.Griffin (RB10)

4.18 L. Suggs (RB11)

4.35 L.Toefield (RB14)

That year had McGahee and L.Johnson go in the first & Musa Smith & BJ Askew (woops) go in the 3rd.

After Travis Henry, LaMont Jordan, and possibly Michael Bennett find news homes, I think we'll see a similar trend this year. My point being, as RB5 - RB7 as Barber is usually rated, he could very well last towards the end of day one. At that point I think the Steelers have to seriously consider him.

Oh, and as far as the WRs....

Uness Troy Williamson or Mark Clayton miraculously fall to #30, I really don't think they should reach on any of the others. Reggie Brown, eh, maybe. But I certainly hope they don't use that pick on White, Henry, Jackson or any of the other long shots.

 

[Godsbrother]

as far as the RB slot, i dont know how the steelers can pass on kay jay harris if he is still there in the 3rd. nehemiah broughton is also an intriguing bruiser at RB who has tremendous speed for a big guy. I would still like to see us take an RB this year because the class is so deep, and the value will be there well into the 2nd day. jacobs i see being converted to a pass rushing DE with that size and speed.

I tell ya, the back that really has me salivating at the thought of him in the black & gold is Marion Barber. He will definitely be a Day 1 pick. He might be there at the end of 3. This draft is so stacked with quality RBs it may very well drive them lower in the count as teams address other needs knowing they can come back and get a quality back to begin the second day.Remember a couple years ago, 2003:

4.02 Pinner (RB7)

4.04 D.Davis (RB8)

4.08 O.Smith (RB9)

4.11 Q.Griffin (RB10)

4.18 L. Suggs (RB11)

4.35 L.Toefield (RB14)

That year had McGahee and L.Johnson go in the first & Musa Smith & BJ Askew (woops) go in the 3rd.

After Travis Henry, LaMont Jordan, and possibly Michael Bennett find news homes, I think we'll see a similar trend this year. My point being, as RB5 - RB7 as Barber is usually rated, he could very well last towards the end of day one. At that point I think the Steelers have to seriously consider him.

Oh, and as far as the WRs....

Uness Troy Williamson or Mark Clayton miraculously fall to #30, I really don't think they should reach on any of the others. Reggie Brown, eh, maybe. But I certainly hope they don't use that pick on White, Henry, Jackson or any of the other long shots.

Agreed. Remember what happened the last time the Steelers reached on a WR in the first round. I am with EvilGrin, if there is a decent offensive lineman in the 1st, grab him. Simmons is a former #1 but is coming off a major injury and has the diabetes to deal with. Starks is still unproven. You cannot have enough good offensive linemen.

If not an offensive lineman then go for either DE or DB. I would like to see the Steelers try to trade their #4 pick for Gardner...

 

[Evilgrin 72]

as far as the RB slot, i dont know how the steelers can pass on kay jay harris if he is still there in the 3rd. nehemiah broughton is also an intriguing bruiser at RB who has tremendous speed for a big guy. I would still like to see us take an RB this year because the class is so deep, and the value will be there well into the 2nd day. jacobs i see being converted to a pass rushing DE with that size and speed.

I tell ya, the back that really has me salivating at the thought of him in the black & gold is Marion Barber. He will definitely be a Day 1 pick. He might be there at the end of 3. This draft is so stacked with quality RBs it may very well drive them lower in the count as teams address other needs knowing they can come back and get a quality back to begin the second day.Remember a couple years ago, 2003:

4.02 Pinner (RB7)

4.04 D.Davis (RB8)

4.08 O.Smith (RB9)

4.11 Q.Griffin (RB10)

4.18 L. Suggs (RB11)

4.35 L.Toefield (RB14)

That year had McGahee and L.Johnson go in the first & Musa Smith & BJ Askew (woops) go in the 3rd.

After Travis Henry, LaMont Jordan, and possibly Michael Bennett find news homes, I think we'll see a similar trend this year. My point being, as RB5 - RB7 as Barber is usually rated, he could very well last towards the end of day one. At that point I think the Steelers have to seriously consider him.

Oh, and as far as the WRs....

Uness Troy Williamson or Mark Clayton miraculously fall to #30, I really don't think they should reach on any of the others. Reggie Brown, eh, maybe. But I certainly hope they don't use that pick on White, Henry, Jackson or any of the other long shots.

Agree with absolutely everything in this post. Excellent job.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

as far as the RB slot, i dont know how the steelers can pass on kay jay harris if he is still there in the 3rd. nehemiah broughton is also an intriguing bruiser at RB who has tremendous speed for a big guy. I would still like to see us take an RB this year because the class is so deep, and the value will be there well into the 2nd day. jacobs i see being converted to a pass rushing DE with that size and speed.

I tell ya, the back that really has me salivating at the thought of him in the black & gold is Marion Barber. He will definitely be a Day 1 pick. He might be there at the end of 3. This draft is so stacked with quality RBs it may very well drive them lower in the count as teams address other needs knowing they can come back and get a quality back to begin the second day.Remember a couple years ago, 2003:

4.02 Pinner (RB7)

4.04 D.Davis (RB8)

4.08 O.Smith (RB9)

4.11 Q.Griffin (RB10)

4.18 L. Suggs (RB11)

4.35 L.Toefield (RB14)

That year had McGahee and L.Johnson go in the first & Musa Smith & BJ Askew (woops) go in the 3rd.

After Travis Henry, LaMont Jordan, and possibly Michael Bennett find news homes, I think we'll see a similar trend this year. My point being, as RB5 - RB7 as Barber is usually rated, he could very well last towards the end of day one. At that point I think the Steelers have to seriously consider him.

Oh, and as far as the WRs....

Uness Troy Williamson or Mark Clayton miraculously fall to #30, I really don't think they should reach on any of the others. Reggie Brown, eh, maybe. But I certainly hope they don't use that pick on White, Henry, Jackson or any of the other long shots.

Agreed. Remember what happened the last time the Steelers reached on a WR in the first round. I am with EvilGrin, if there is a decent offensive lineman in the 1st, grab him. Simmons is a former #1 but is coming off a major injury and has the diabetes to deal with. Starks is still unproven. You cannot have enough good offensive linemen.

If not an offensive lineman then go for either DE or DB. I would like to see the Steelers try to trade their #4 pick for Gardner...

I would take Gardner for a #4 in a heartbeat. Agree that OT, DE, DB and WR are the need positions.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

More from PFT on the Maddox rumor:TEAMS SNIFFING AROUND TOMMY? With only a handful of quality veteran backup quarterbacks set to hit the open market on March 2, we're hearing that some teams have been checking into the availability of Steelers No. 2 guy Tommy Maddox, a former starter who lost his gig to rookie Ben Roethlisberger after suffering an elbow injury in the team's second game of the season, at Baltimore.The Steelers, we're told, are reluctant to move Maddox, since they consider him to be a quality backup who, even with the raise he got a year ago, comes at an affordable price.And without Maddox, the Steelers likely would be required to sign some other established veteran to serve as Roethlisberger's understudy and, to a certain extent, mentor. Forgotten man Charlie Batch remains on the roster, but our guess is that he'll be released before the season.Look for a deal to happen, if at all, after the dust settles after guys like Jeff Garcia, Kurt Warner, Gus Frerotte, Jay Fiedler, and Brad Johnson find new homes.

 

[Steel Dillo]

I'd love to see the Steelers draft Chris Keamatu (sp?), OG from Utah.This guy is one nasty road grader that would fit in great with the Steelers attitude.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

Foote signs five-year contract with SteelersTuesday, March 01, 2005By Pittsburgh Post-GazetteRestricted free agent linebacker Larry Foote has signed a five-year contract with the Steelers. Terms of the deal were not released.Foote, who replaced the injured Kendrell Bell as a starter in the 2004 preseason, was originally selected by the team in the fourth round (128th overall) of the 2002 NFL Draft.Foote set career-highs last season when he ranked fourth on the Steelers with 78 tackles (58 solo) and tied for fifth on the team with three quarterback sacks.For more details see tomorrow's Post-Gazette.

 

[Godsbrother]

Foote signs five-year contract with Steelers

Tuesday, March 01, 2005

By Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Restricted free agent linebacker Larry Foote has signed a five-year contract with the Steelers. Terms of the deal were not released.

Foote, who replaced the injured Kendrell Bell as a starter in the 2004 preseason, was originally selected by the team in the fourth round (128th overall) of the 2002 NFL Draft.

Foote set career-highs last season when he ranked fourth on the Steelers with 78 tackles (58 solo) and tied for fifth on the team with three quarterback sacks.

For more details see tomorrow's Post-Gazette.

So long, Kendrell...

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I'd love to see the Steelers draft Chris Keamatu (sp?), OG from Utah.

This guy is one nasty road grader that would fit in great with the Steelers attitude.

What round is he being projected to go?

 

[Barry Jive and The Uptown Five]

I'd love to see the Steelers draft Chris Keamatu (sp?), OG from Utah.

This guy is one nasty road grader that would fit in great with the Steelers attitude.

What round is he being projected to go?

I think he's a 2/3 kind of guy. IIRC, he's got some anger management type issues that could remind people of Turley. I can't keep him and the Samoan DT from Utah straight. He's a beast though.

 

[Frenchy Fuqua]

Just saw that Joe Jurevicius was released. I know he has a long history of injuries but if healthy he would be a perfect complement to Hines and Randle-El. He's big and fast and a nice redzone threat. Should also be relatively inexpensive and Pittsburgh is near his roots in OH.

 

[Black&Gold]

Just saw that Joe Jurevicius was released. I know he has a long history of injuries but if healthy he would be a perfect complement to Hines and Randle-El. He's big and fast and a nice redzone threat. Should also be relatively inexpensive and Pittsburgh is near his roots in OH.

I was thinking the same thing. PSU grad to boot. Who knows?

 

[Cremrock]

I wouldn't mind Jurevicius in Pittsburgh since he'd likely come cheap and would give the Steelers some size to replace Burress, but I always thought speed was the asset he was most often knocked for.

 

[Barry Jive and The Uptown Five]

OK - Let's play GM... From the follwing choices, pick you ideal DAY ONE.

RD1 Players available

RB - Morency, Fason, Barber, Jacobs, Arrington

WR - Mark Bradley, Roddy White, JR Russell, Craig Bragg, Terrence Murphy

TE - Alex Smith

OG/C - Baas, Kemoeatu, Elton Brown

OT - Terry, Colmer, Britt, Mankins

DT- Sean Cody, Jonathan Babineaux, Antaj Hawthorne

DE - Demarcus Ware, Justin Tuck, Bill Swancutt

LB - none without a BIG reach

CB - Eric Green, Bryant McFadden, Brandon Browner, Corey Webster, Marlin Jackson, Fabian Washington

RD2 Players available

RB - Gore, KJ Harris, Sproles, Moats, McClendon

WR - McArthur, Savoy, Parrish, Gibson, Henry

TE - Matt Jones, Joel Dreesen

OG/C - Justin Brown, Vince Carter, Snyder, Kaczur, Mayes, Clinkscale

OT - Evan Mathis, Mike Roos, Ray Willis, Marcus Johnson

DT- Sione Pouha, Atiyyah Ellison, CJ Mosley,

DE - Eric Moore, Jim davis, Ryan Riddle, Jovan Haye, Tyler King

LB - Rian Walace, Robert McCune, Kirk Morrison, Daryl Blackstock

CB - Darent Williams, Abraham Eimimian, Vince Fuller, Travis Daniels

RD3 Players available

RB - Shelton, Broughton, A,Davis, Houston

WR - Ridgeway, Roby, Frederick, Josh Davis, Stubblefield, Warren

TE - Cody McCarty, Alex Holmes

OG/C - Ben Wilkerson, CJ Brooks, Chris Myers

OT - Munoz, Was Sims, Anthony Alabi, C.Armstrong

DT - Greg Pauly, Jason Jefferson, Lorenzo Alexander, Anthony Bryant, Chris Canty

DE - Vince Burns, George Gause, Brady Poppinga, Trent Cole

LB - Thurman, Fincher, Tatupu, Boley, Grigsby

CB - Ellis Hobbs, Stanley Wilson, Dustin Fox, Alphonso Hodge

Edit to add : The draft grades are actually a round below what's listed, but for this purpose, picking #30 means MOST of the talent you'll be looking at would be what available at the beginning of the next RD... you get my drift!

 

[Evilgrin 72]

Starting with round 1, I am going to eliminate all the players I don't feel are good picks here, thus leaving the guys I would consider at that choice....RD1 Players availableRB - FasonWR - Roddy WhiteOG/C - BaasOT - TerryDT- Sean Cody, Antaj HawthorneDE - Demarcus Ware, CB - Brandon Browner, Marlin JacksonAnyone agree/disagree?

 

[Steel Dillo]

Starting with round 1, I am going to eliminate all the players I don't feel are good picks here, thus leaving the guys I would consider at that choice....

RD1 Players available

RB - Fason

WR - Roddy White

OG/C - Baas

OT - Terry

DT- Sean Cody, Antaj Hawthorne

DE - Demarcus Ware,

CB - Brandon Browner, Marlin Jackson

Anyone agree/disagree?

I would add:RB - Barber

OG/C Kemoeatu

and remove:

WR - Roddy White (not as high on him as most seem to be)

With all the depth at WR this year, I don't think any of them that are left at our pick will be worth a 1st round selection.

 

[Bloom]

Starting with round 1, I am going to eliminate all the players I don't feel are good picks here, thus leaving the guys I would consider at that choice....

RD1 Players available

RB - Fason

WR - Roddy White

OG/C - Baas

OT - Terry

DT- Sean Cody, Antaj Hawthorne

DE - Demarcus Ware,

CB - Brandon Browner, Marlin Jackson

Anyone agree/disagree?

Fason is the more versatile kind of back that doesnt really fit in the steelers offense. i would rather see us wait and take a guy like barber, harris or shelton later.as much as everyone wants us to take the replacement for plax, we are going for a super bowl this year, and i think a project WR is not the way to go in the first. it is much more likely that a rookie CB, DE, or Olineman we take will have to play due to injury and be a crucial player than a rookie WR. Im looking for a future piece, but one that can help now.

I like Ware, but we have Porter, Haggans, and Harrison at OLB, i think we are set there for now.

I would go CB, DE, or Olineman.

 

[AhrnCityPahnder]

Latest rumors say that Anthony Becht is coming to Pgh for a workout.

 

[Barry Jive and The Uptown Five]

Starting with round 1, I am going to eliminate all the players I don't feel are good picks here, thus leaving the guys I would consider at that choice....

RD1 Players available

RB -  Fason

WR -  Roddy White

OG/C - Baas

OT - Terry

DT- Sean Cody, Antaj Hawthorne

DE - Demarcus Ware,

CB - Brandon Browner, Marlin Jackson

Anyone agree/disagree?

I would add:RB - Barber

OG/C Kemoeatu

and remove:

WR - Roddy White (not as high on him as most seem to be)

With all the depth at WR this year, I don't think any of them that are left at our pick will be worth a 1st round selection.

Agreed 100% with Dillo on White. I think he's a Peter King WR. Meaning He thinks he thinks he's an elite WR when in actuality he has a LOT to learn about the position.Agree with Bloom that Fason is a do-it-all back that doesn't seem to fit the CURRENT version of the offense. Now with the development of Big Ben and the aging bruiser backs, there is always the possibility of going back to the more open attack ca. 2002. Fason would fit that perfectly.

If we reached for a RB in RD1, Barber is my guy.

But here's what I was suggesting:

My Ideal Stillers Draft:

RD1 - Baas - Need the horses up front to keep the Duce-Bus rolling

RD2 - Travis Daniels - he's every bit as good as Rogers. Played S as well but has the cover skills of a lockdown type CB

RD3 - Barber if the RBs fall, then KJ Harris, then Cedric Houston or Eric Shelton

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I think Barber would be a nice fit in Pittsburgh, but removed him based solely on the fact that I wouldn't take him in round 1 when he's almost sure to be there in round 2. I wouldn't take Roddy White either in retrospect... I guess I felt I needed to leave one receiver on there.Of the players I left on the board, I think Cody and Baas would be the two best picks in round 1.

 

[Bloom]

I think Barber would be a nice fit in Pittsburgh, but removed him based solely on the fact that I wouldn't take him in round 1 when he's almost sure to be there in round 2. I wouldn't take Roddy White either in retrospect... I guess I felt I needed to leave one receiver on there.

Of the players I left on the board, I think Cody and Baas would be the two best picks in round 1.

if cody is there at 30, the steelers will use all of about 30 seconds of their 15 minutes to make the pick. if spears falls to the chargers at 12, thatll be a start, since they are also looking for a 3-4 DE, and are situated at 28 to steal one from us. unfortunately, i think a few teams are looking at switching to a 3-4 defense, so the chances of a prototype 3-4 DE like cody falling (2nd on the board for that specific position after spears) are slim.baas, terry, or whoever the best OL available OR the best CB available looks like the most likely outcome right now.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I think Barber would be a nice fit in Pittsburgh, but removed him based solely on the fact that I wouldn't take him in round 1 when he's almost sure to be there in round 2.  I wouldn't take Roddy White either in retrospect... I guess I felt I needed to leave one receiver on there.

Of the players I left on the board, I think Cody and Baas would be the two best picks in round 1.

if cody is there at 30, the steelers will use all of about 30 seconds of their 15 minutes to make the pick. if spears falls to the chargers at 12, thatll be a start, since they are also looking for a 3-4 DE, and are situated at 28 to steal one from us. unfortunately, i think a few teams are looking at switching to a 3-4 defense, so the chances of a prototype 3-4 DE like cody falling (2nd on the board for that specific position after spears) are slim.baas, terry, or whoever the best OL available OR the best CB available looks like the most likely outcome right now.

Agreed. I would love to see Spears or Cody drop to #30, but I don't think there'a any way it happens. I suspect Antaj Hawthorne may drop, but he may be too slow to play end.

 

[Bloom]

I think Barber would be a nice fit in Pittsburgh, but removed him based solely on the fact that I wouldn't take him in round 1 when he's almost sure to be there in round 2.  I wouldn't take Roddy White either in retrospect... I guess I felt I needed to leave one receiver on there.

Of the players I left on the board, I think Cody and Baas would be the two best picks in round 1.

if cody is there at 30, the steelers will use all of about 30 seconds of their 15 minutes to make the pick. if spears falls to the chargers at 12, thatll be a start, since they are also looking for a 3-4 DE, and are situated at 28 to steal one from us. unfortunately, i think a few teams are looking at switching to a 3-4 defense, so the chances of a prototype 3-4 DE like cody falling (2nd on the board for that specific position after spears) are slim.baas, terry, or whoever the best OL available OR the best CB available looks like the most likely outcome right now.

Agreed. I would love to see Spears or Cody drop to #30, but I don't think there'a any way it happens. I suspect Antaj Hawthorne may drop, but he may be too slow to play end.

as i was saying in another thread, the rumors that the vikes and cowboys are switching to a 3-4 D could make it nearly impossible that spears or cody fall past 20. also, the niners or browns could switch (they have the LBs to do it), and if they are able to trade down, i could see them taking cody or spears. houston is another 3-4 team that has lackluster DEs, so spears at 13 if the chargers dont take him is another possibility.but stranger things have happened, a franchise QB fell to us at 11 last year...