Rufio's Reaction to the Cleveland Browns' 2010 NFL Draft
by rufio on Apr 24, 2010 4:30 PM EDT
in Rufio's Playbook
Email
Print
After a thrilling three days and thousands of comments here at DBN, I am trying to take a step back and form my opinions of what we did in this draft as a whole. I don't want to give us grades because everyone else gives grades. There is plenty of that out there if you want it. I just want to gather my thoughts and hear others' on the weekend as a whole.
After the jump, I have a few thoughts on our division competition, BPA vs. need, and the Montario Hardesty and TJ Ward picks.
Relative Draft Success
If you want to win in this league, you have beat the other teams on the field. If you want to be better on the field, you have to beat them in the front office.
I think we had a good draft. I know we improved our football team. But one of my biggest concerns with this draft is our success relative to other teams, particularly other teams in the division; did we do enough to pull ourselves up in the division? It doesn't really matter if we got better, we have to get better relative to the other teams in the division, or we'll never be at the top.
The Ravens' draft is the one that scares me. If Kindle's knee ends up being OK and he isn't robbed of his explosiveness, the Ravens' defense just reloaded.
Our Draft
Philosophy
I am of the "Best Player Available" school when it comes to the draft, and I don't think you can make the argument that some of the players we chose (TJ Ward, for example) were the best on the board when we chose. Others (Colt McCoy, Joe Haden) may very well have been. Not even Michael Smith knows for sure; maybe these guys were at the top of our board when we selected them.
Whatever the philosophy of the front office, we can be sure that we selected players at positions of need. I want Mike Furry and Brandon McDonald as far down the depth chart in the secondary as possible, and Haden and Ward should certainly push them down while Asante can probably push for playing time in sub packages. Colt McCoy fell into our laps at our biggest area of need; Quarterback. We got a young defensive lineman, a guard for the right side, and a big, speedy wideout. Each of our picks was in one of our biggest areas of need with the exception of Hardesty.
"Reaches"
Initially, I wasn't thrilled with the selections of Hardesty and Ward. But the more I watch and read about these guys, the more I think they've flashed the talent to be very good in the NFL. There are positive qualities about each.
Hardesty
- Prototypical size/speed
- Toughness
- Vision--I can't say enough about this. Just watch him find the holes.
- Receiving skills--another underrated RB characteristic. Having a RB who can catch the ball is key in a West Coast Offense (not that we'll transition to a full-time WCO). He even beat first-round CB Kareem Jackson on a slant route while lined up as a WR at Tennessee. (See video above)
- Production during senior season despite teams knowing Tennessee couldn't pass at times.
- "Wiggle"/lateral movement/spin move for size.
Hardesty ran a 4.49 40 at the combine, putting up 21 reps on the bench press, and having a positional best 41" vertical jump. He was also atop the broad jump numbers for RBs at 10'4", and was in the top-5 for RBs with a 6.87 3-cone drill and a 4.14 short shuttle--all of this at 225lbs. The physical talent to be a very good NFL back is there.
Ward
- Ward can lay the wood. Period. Ward is nasty. Ward has better big hit highlights on youtube than Taylor Mays.
- He will strip the ball and create turnovers.
- If you wanted an "enforcer" on defense, this is probably your guy. He will make you think twice about coming over the middle.
- For a more powerful safety, he has pretty good movement skills He isn't quite Polamalu in that regard, but no one is. Great burst, solid agility.
- Instinctive and smart. At his best in zone coverage where he can diagnose what is happening
- Started off at CB, so has experience covering WRs and coverage skills.
Ward ran a 4.54 40 at the combine, but got his time down to 4.45-4.49 at his pro day (multiple sources with multiple times). He was able to put up 19 reps on the bench press and posted a 34" vertical leap to go along with a 4.12 short shuttle. What all of these numbers mean (and what the film shows) is that TJ Ward has the agility, speed, and movement skills to cover at the NFL level.
We probably could have gotten him a full round later, sure. But as some have pointed out, if we took Colt McCoy in the 2nd and Ward in the 3rd, none of the national pundits would be complaining.
Injury Concerns
The reason that Ward and Hardesty were considered reaches to varying degrees is because of injuries.
Ward
Ward didn't start until his senior year at California powerhouse De La Salle. During his senior season of high school, Ward suffered a rupture of his patella tendon--one of the most serious knee injuries. No one recruited him so he walked on at Oregon with his friend and teammate Terrance Kelly. Kelly was shot to death two days before he was scheduled to arrive at Oregon.
Once at Oregon, Ward had another knee injury, this time an MCL tear (much less severe). During his Sophomore season, he played despite having to get his knee drained of blood every two weeks. He was completely healthy his junior season, and missed a few games in his senior year due to a high ankle sprain.
Hardesty
Hardesty runs high, magnifying injury concerns. He had a season-ending knee injury in 2005 and missed four combined games in 2007 and 2008. In 2009, he was "hampered by sore knees" but played all 13 games to the tune of 1300+ yards in the SEC.
The best part about both of these players is that their major injuries occurred several years ago. The Browns' doctors have checked them out and gave the team the green light to draft either. Hopefully both stay healthy so that they can show their talent in Browns uniforms.
In the end
If several of these picks work out, this could end up being a phenomenal draft for us. If everything goes the way it is planned, we have a new feature back, a franchise QB, Darelle Revis II, a third young OL starter, two starting Safeties, a replacement for an aging Robaire Smith, and a huge, fast WR.
I doubt it goes quite that well, but even if Haden becomes a lockdown corner and Colt McCoy becomes an above-average QB, this draft is a win. In my opinion, much of the success of this drat is hinging on McCoy. From what I've seen and heard, I am happy to have him.
309 comments
|
2 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
Interestingly enough, Heckert said yesterday that he was worried about Ward falling to us, so I am wondering if a number of NFL teams had him ranked a lot higher than the media mocks.
Nice insights, thanks for sharing.
to quote Drew Carrey “now it’s your team that sucks”… I have a feeling that I will be able to use that soon
In my opinion, much of the success of this drat is hinging on McCoy.
I’d say Haden & McCoy since Haden was our first round and pick and considered the top corner in the draft. McCoy for obvious reasons since we needed a QB (I have a good feeling about him).
Still a little concerned about Ward’s and Hardesty’s injuries, but it’s nice to know they all happened several years ago.
I think if Haden and one of the safeties become solid starters for us and two of the other guys become solid rotation guys then this draft is a success.
As far as QB is concerned…QB picks are all Boom or Bust, but you can’t hit a homerun without swinging the bat. So, I have high hopes for Colt McCoy but no real expectations. I think it was a good move by the front office to take him at that spot, so I like the pick whether he pans out or not.
by Bumblyjack on Apr 24, 2010 7:29 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
McCoy is the real deal. Was a great High School QB mfor a 2A teaxas school (Graham), and everyone saw him on the College stage. Just watch the 2 brothers he has, his old man is 1 hell of a coach…. Don’t forget, in texas football is Bigger than Jesus (they are on the same level), and friday and saturady at game time, businesses can just shut down, cux there ain’t no business going on….
Animadvertistine, ubicumque stes, fumum recta in faciem ferri?
Rufio, I did the same as you. I got on youtube to check the highlights for Ward and Hardesty, and what can I say… I really liked what I saw. These guys absolutely have the talent. No doubt the injury concerns kept them low on most draft analysts’ boards.
What I like about Hardesty is not just the fact that he’s a power runner – I saw a couple of defenders’ helmets fly off! – but he has very good vision and the ability to not just break a tackle but to spin or juke to avoid the tackle altogether. If healthy, he could be a feature back and probowler. I see why they had to trade up and get him. He could be really special.
I think the success of any draft is told by how many repeat probowlers you get out of it. Not just one-timers like Braylon. I see 3 guys from this draft class that could be perenial all-pro players for 4-5+ seasons: McCoy, Haden, and Hardesty. The only reason I don’t list Ward is due to past injuries and the fact that the 3 best safeties in the NFL are all in the AFC. Now there’s Berry and Ward added to that competition. He’d have to be super special consistently to outshine Reed, Polumalu, Sanders, and Berry.
The Drive, the Fumble, the Shot, the Meltdown...still hopefull.
Wishfull thinking
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 24, 2010 5:55 PM EDT up reply actions
About McCoy, what I’m most excited about is his passion and fire. I admit that’s a cliche, but it seems to me that guys like McCoy are the reason that cliche exists. It’s even more exciting to me than his historically good accuracy. 70+ percent is an astonishing feat, and it will pay dividends for the Browns.
The sun is shining in Cleveland. This is a great day to be a Browns fan.
Actively seeking inspiration for a new handle
My favorite part about McCoy, other than his passion and fire… Is that he said “Dag gum” in his conference call and he told reporters “We played in Kansas and Missouri… So I’ve played in a lot of cold weather games.” This poor kid has no idea that he aint in Kansas (or Missouri) anymore… Cleveland weather is gonna welcome him eventually ;-)
I’m really excited. I think he’s going to be great.
His accuracy on the deep balls I am not all that worried about. The intermediate timing stuff is more my worry. But he has room to improve in that area. Physically, I think everyone knows he isn’t going to Favre a 70 yard pass on a rope across his body.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
Yeah, Montana and Sipe and Kosar didn’t have rocket arms either. Kiper says Colt’s arm is underrated
"Smokescreen."
Don’t know enough about Colt’s arm to comment and I never saw Brian Sipe play, but Montana could definitely throw the ball deep and so could Kosar. They didn’t have Kyle Boller’s arm, but they definitely could throw long — nothing like Brady Quinn’s sorry attempts at long balls (eg the end of the Baltimore game last year on Monday night).
by TheDriveStillHurts on Apr 26, 2010 1:36 PM EDT up reply actions
It is definitely a concern, and I am glad you brought it up, but two things:
1. His offense at Texas lacked a deep threat. Malcolm Williams was the only legitimate vertical threat, but he was only there for his Junior/Senior seasons and he was inconsistent at best.
2. He is in the right offense for his skillset. The WCO emphasizes short-field accuracy over arm strength.
2. He is in the right offense for his skillset. The WCO emphasizes short-field accuracy over arm strength.
Exactly.
Said the same thing about BQ. I am reasonably optimistic about Colt, but my hopes aren’t up. As B19K’s article showed, it is very rare to find a good starter in the 3rd round. He was worth the pick, but let’s not crown him already.
by TheDriveStillHurts on Apr 26, 2010 1:01 AM EDT up reply actions
And if he sucks, big deal. He cost us a third.
by Bernie19Kosar on Apr 26, 2010 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions
Agree. It is worth taking a flier on a QB in the third. But I think some people around here are already deluding themselves into believing that he is the future of the franchise. I hope he is. I am cautiously optimistic he will be a solid starter, but the odds are against it. Let’s not turn his weaknesses into strengths — ie bad arm strength (which I don’t even know is true or not) is somehow a strength in the west coast offense because he has short-field accuracy.
We heard the same crap about Brady — he was a Winner™ and his lack of arm strength was a plus because he had accuracy.
by TheDriveStillHurts on Apr 26, 2010 1:32 PM EDT up reply actions
With Brady, actually it wasn’t Winner™, it was his Great Attitude™, his Work Ethic™ and Love for the Game™.
by TheDriveStillHurts on Apr 26, 2010 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions
I hope BQ’s Love for the Game™ holds out while he’s in Denver, Watching from the Bench™.
I have high hopes for Colt’s accuracy, and it certainly would be a nice change. But whatever happens happens. We’ll see what he’s really got in good time. Meanwhile, I like the idea of having him around.
That's just noise.
by RelapsingDawgCatcher on Apr 28, 2010 3:17 PM EDT up reply actions
nobody is calling bad arm strength a good thing. all anybody is saying is that a WCO helps mask that issue, because the QB simply isn’t asked to make as many deep throws.
that said, i think people are probably overestimating the degree to which our offense is changing.
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 26, 2010 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Agreed. Did anybody watch the press conference yesterday? We’re not switching to a WCO. Holmgren said this is Mangini and Daboll’s offense and we’re doing what they want to. He even went so far as to say we were going to do it well (buuuuuuuh?). He did state that Gil Haskell is working with Daboll and Haskell and Daboll are giving them suggestions as to what has worked for them in the past.
One picture is worth 128K words.
i really don’t see where you’re getting that from.
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 26, 2010 8:03 PM EDT up reply actions
The only reason I would be thinking that would be because Daboll has demonstrated a lot of ineffectiveness in the passing game to this point. If the stuff he brings over isn’t working and the stuff Haskell is feeding him is, he’s going to run the stuff Gil’s feeding him.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
good point.
I’m actually sort of surprised the passing game has been so bad from daboll. wasn’t he a QB coach? maybe it wasn’t his offense, just the guys running it?
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 26, 2010 10:39 PM EDT up reply actions
Let’s hope it was 100% the quarterbacks.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
i personally think it was probably mostly the QBs
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 27, 2010 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions
It was definitely a little bit of both, but I’m gonna say mostly QB’s. Massaquoi looked like he might break out, so this year should be better. As many people have pointed out, WRs take a couple years to break out. But great QBs can make a WR look amazing as well, just put it in the right place. I mean look at Peyton Manning had with him in Indianapolis. And Brett Favre made Sidney Rice look like a probowler as well.
One picture is worth 128K words.
The QBs definitely added a stink factor, and the WRs were not all that polished, but the entire first half of the season seemed to consist of passes at or just behind the LoS, and that sounds like a play-calling issue to me.
Unless we are talking about some sort of screen pass, 99.9% of all pass plays have some sort of progression built in to them so that a QB would never be locked in to throwing behind the line.
I think it would have more to do with poor play design (no WRs open past the LoS) and the QBs having to check down.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
But the situation won’t be any better this year.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 27, 2010 6:41 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t see how you can be sure of this.
I am down on Delhomme as anyone, but I don’t think it is a forgone conclusion that the Browns passing game will be as bad as it was last season.
by Bernie19Kosar on Apr 27, 2010 7:52 PM EDT up reply actions
In my uninformed opinion JD >>>>>>>>>>Anderson>Quinn
They gone have to stop sleeping on me one day.. I gotta be one of the best
About 3 hours ago by Eric Wright Cleveland Browns – Cornerback
I would go JD>>>>Quinn>Anderson.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
I’m still partially blinded by 2007 and DA’s arm. So much so that it’s hard for me to see pass his stupidity.
They gone have to stop sleeping on me one day.. I gotta be one of the best
About 3 hours ago by Eric Wright Cleveland Browns – Cornerback
DId you watch Delhome last year?
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 30, 2010 5:28 PM EDT up reply actions
I’ve watched Quinn and Anderson’s career’s. I’ll give Delhomme the benefit and say he is trending towards crap and not actually there yet.
They gone have to stop sleeping on me one day.. I gotta be one of the best
About 3 hours ago by Eric Wright Cleveland Browns – Cornerback
It’s just how the NFL is. We can’t expect to use the power run to then set up the playaction pass. That is stone age stuff now. Mike Holmgren is here, there is no way that he lets us continue to run stone age offense ineffectively when he comes from the Bill Walsh tree.
"Smokescreen."
using the power run to set up the play-action pass still works
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 27, 2010 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Jaws believes the NFL is on the cusp of a offensive awakening.
Maybe we are, maybe we aren’t. But one thing I know for sure, if you run the ball right down someones throat long enough, play action will be open all day long.
by Bernie19Kosar on Apr 27, 2010 5:11 PM EDT up reply actions
No awakening required. The “run first, then use playaction” school of thought was the last system to be outmoded. Bill Walsh’s main innovation was proving to everyone that the short pass sets up the run just as well as the run sets up the pass.
You’ve got to be able to pass it to get the most out of your running game, just like you have got to have the threat to run to get the most out of your passing game.
"Smokescreen."
Walsh’s main innovation was proving to everyone that the short pass sets up the run just as well as the run sets up the pass.
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 27, 2010 11:29 PM EDT up reply actions
We are on the cusp of an offensive awakening – and it involves a lot of FBs.
by JustBob on Apr 27, 2010 10:05 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
We can’t expect to use the power run to then set up the playaction pass. That is stone age stuff now
so power running is just stone age strategy? and how does power running NOT help set up the passing game for the WCO…look at the running backs that started on WCO teams…roger Craig, Terrell Davis, Jamal Lewis, Michael Turner. all excelled under coaches who were bred in the WCO. all were powerful inside runners.
I teach good life choices. That’s why I almost didn’t graduate High School.
Jaws, even the biggest advocates of the spread and of throwing the ball know that what you said is flat out false, and that they use the same conceptual thinking in their offenses.
The stuff that is still run in the NFL is run because it works in the NFL. We sucked at running it, and there were plays where Daboll was not running anything that made any kind of sense, but run, run, PA deep will always be effective in football if you can run.
You know what else is stone age? The Run-n-shoot. “if you can’t block him, read him”. It still works when applied properly.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
ugh, I’m not claiming that playaction doesn’t work. Thats not what I meant. I mean that we are going to have to have some sort of passing game if we want our running game to be anywhere near as effective as it was last year. Mike Holmgren knows that, so does Brian Daboll (I hope)
"Smokescreen."
But who has said anything different?
They gone have to stop sleeping on me one day.. I gotta be one of the best
About 3 hours ago by Eric Wright Cleveland Browns – Cornerback
Yes, and also, we don’t need to use any sort of short passing game to do that. If our YPA is at least about 1 yard higher than our YPC, we should be set.
If those are 1/5 deep bombs going for 60 yards and a TD or if those are 4/5 going for 15 yards, it won’t matter.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
If cribbs were on my team I would prefer first quarter passing of 4/5 for 15 yards. Its more likely to bring first downs and you’ll end up having that 60 yarder at some point.
by steelerstyle on Apr 28, 2010 5:35 AM EDT up reply actions
if you go 4/5 for 15 yards apiece and then bust a 60 yarder, your YPA is much higher than any of the other choices. That would definitely be my preference.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
I think you want to scheme around your personnel. and if colt McCoy is going to be our quarterback, we had better be planning on using an offense that is built around those 4/5 for 15 yds performances.
"Smokescreen."
We still need to threaten deep. A defense can still get 8-9 close to the LoS to defend the run AND those short passes if we can never go deep.
Colt McCoy needs to become a better deep/intermediate thrower if he wants to succeed in the NFL.
And your original points are still defeated. Spread offenses have a long history, power running + PA pass still works.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
Actually I meant 4/5 for a total of 15 yards.
My point not effectively made was a high percentage passing game for Cribbs is similar to a vertical threat with his YAC ability.
by steelerstyle on Apr 29, 2010 7:57 AM EDT up reply actions
I mean that we are going to have to have some sort of passing game if we want our running game to be anywhere near as effective as it was last year.
Once again, thank you for stating the obvious.
Mike Holmgren knows that, so does Brian Daboll (I hope)
EVERY coach in the NFL knows that. What exactly is your point?
You’re acting like bross now. You make one statement then when people show that you’re wrong you backtrack and claim you meant something else.
by Buckeye Brad on Apr 28, 2010 9:00 AM EDT up reply actions
uhhhhh DUH! If we don’t have some sort of passing game, teams will just be able to put 8-9 defenders in the box…if we don’t have some sort of effective passing game, a PA play won’t work b/c the passing offense is ineffective…
I teach good life choices. That’s why I almost didn’t graduate High School.
however, i really never heard that about BQ, the winner tag. I thought one of the criticisms was he didn’t do well in big games or against good competition.
I teach good life choices. That’s why I almost didn’t graduate High School.
Which seems to be the problem with every ND QB. So glad we didn’t take Clausen.
One picture is worth 128K words.
Clausen did well in big games. His team didn’t
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 26, 2010 5:27 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m saying that they didn’t play well in big games, but actually, cancel that. It was the easy games when we sucked.
BUT Clausen was still consistently good.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 26, 2010 8:09 PM EDT up reply actions
I can see him being our starter in 2 seasons. He’ll have plenty of time to learn the offense, improve on whatever he can improve on, and plus he won’t have the pressure of being a first round pick. I think he could be above average, but not in the upper tier of QBs.
I’m sure Holgren saw something that made him want to draft him. He knows QBs, and he was the one who made the push to get him.
Maybe my expectations are a little high, though.
He is a young QB on our roster. There is a lot to like about him. We have a chance—albeit a small chance—that we already have the rights to a franchise QB.
I will take any sliver of hope that comes with that because it’s April. To assume that we are automatically set at QB for the next 10 years would be foolish.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
It depends on how long you wait on him.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 26, 2010 5:26 PM EDT up reply actions
If he ends up playing bad, how long will you wait until you give up on him
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 26, 2010 8:10 PM EDT up reply actions
depends on why he isn’t playing bad.
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 26, 2010 10:40 PM EDT up reply actions
why he is* playing bad
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 26, 2010 10:40 PM EDT up reply actions
I think Colt has a 1-2 year window to show that he is the guy going forward.
by Bernie19Kosar on Apr 27, 2010 1:53 AM EDT up reply actions
but maybe not as a starter. if he gets his chance and blows it, we could just keep him around as a backup.
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 27, 2010 10:39 AM EDT up reply actions
Holmgren said the drafting of McCoy would not prohibit the Browns from selecting a QB high next year if necessary. I don’t think the Browns are ready to hitch their wagons to him yet; hopefully he shows them something in practices this year to give them reason to let him start some games in 2011 and not worry about drafting a QB next year, but that remains to be seen. I would hope that he at least gets a chance to prove himself as a starter, but that probably depends on what happens this coming season. If he struggles learning the offense and making the throws then Holmgren won’t be afraid to pick another QB high next year. Hopefully it doesn’t come to that, though.
by Buckeye Brad on Apr 27, 2010 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions
MO
Holmgren is just talking completely straight. If BPA happens to be a QB he gets selected and it does reflect much on McCoy
by steelerstyle on Apr 27, 2010 3:18 PM EDT up reply actions
I think drafting McCoy was like finding money on the street, we just have to find out how much we found.
They gone have to stop sleeping on me one day.. I gotta be one of the best
About 3 hours ago by Eric Wright Cleveland Browns – Cornerback
by Villeslgr on Apr 27, 2010 10:56 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
i like this analogy, i may use it myself.
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 28, 2010 9:54 AM EDT up reply actions
Too bad you found a penny on its tails side…
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 30, 2010 5:30 PM EDT up reply actions
someone’s bitter…
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on May 1, 2010 11:17 AM EDT up reply actions
By all means, I am referencing being “the man” here in Cleveland.
If Colt shows the team nothing all year in practice, preseason, etc. I would assume that this FO would be looking at a QB next season.
by Bernie19Kosar on Apr 27, 2010 4:37 PM EDT up reply actions
i might be most excited about the late pickups of carlton mitchell and geathers.
While mitchell does not offer the pure speed I would have liked to see us pick up in a WR, his height and big play ability helps make up for it. Geathers is a prototypical 3-4 DE, if he can stay healthy and develop a little bit more, he could become a fixture on the line. You cant teach his length. I only wish we picked up an OLB somewhere in the draft, i feel like we are still going to have trouble getting to the QB.
Mitchel runs a 4.40. It is the separation/in and out of cuts movement I am worried about. In a straight line he is plenty fast. He also ran the 400 for USF, I believe.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
It is said to be that after he added a little weight he lost a step i dont think he is in the 4.40 range now but i know he was in his Freshmen year when he had his best season as well
That 40 time is at his pro day—reported, I was not there clocking him.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
4.40 at the pro day, 4.49 at the combine, reportedly.
I don’t put a whole lot of stock in 40 times, but the kid can run in a straight line in shorts. Hopefully he can turn that into being a legit threat on the football field.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
carltonmitchell.net – greatest. website. ever.
my favorites are the images section, and the interview from ESPN First Take, where the news about Shaun Rogers’ arrest runs across the bottom line while he’s talking.
Not to steal Dorn’s meme, but where does this perception of us having trouble getting to the QB come from? We were 8th, with 40 sacks, higher than multiple playoff teams. Doesn’t anyone remember the PGH win? Ryan was sending guys from all over the field all season. Now we might actually have guys in the secondary to eliminate the big plays that sometimes resulted in that aggression.
www.lowbrowsophisticate.com
I think it comes from us not having a “sack guy”.
I love Rob Ryan and what he can create, but at some point in time we need to get a player who can just straight get to the QB.
As it stands right now, we don’t have a player on this roster who has had more than 7 sacks in a season. That is a scary stat. Schemes will only get us so far, at some point in time are going to need to add a serious pass rusher. Roth and Gocong have promise, but I don’t think they are keeping any LT’s up at night.
While I do understand the secondary makes the pass rush better argument, I am firmly in the camp that believes even the great CB’s can only cover for so long.
by Bernie19Kosar on Apr 25, 2010 1:31 AM EDT up reply actions
If we had a guy who was a threat to beat even the best LTs (Joe Thomas notwithstanding, because no one truly beats Joe Thomas) on every play, we could rush 4 and get pressure or rush 6 and get pressure.
We don’t have trouble getting to the QB, but right now everyone knows how we are getting there: complex blitzes. If we could play a more “normal” defense and still get to the QB, it would go a long way towards making our defense more unpredictable and more threatening. QBs would have a lot more they had to sift through before making decisions; blitzes are quite predictable if you know they are happening in every passing situation.
None of this means we need to reach for DE/OLBs anytime soon, nor that we “had to” take one in this draft.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
I thought Roth looked pretty good for coming in in the middle of the season. Not sure what he has in the way of moves, but he certainly showed a good bull rush.
Browns did need a RB. And in the past, I suggested we trade Brady Quinn or Derek Andersen or Braylon Edwards (when they were wearing burnt orange helmets) to the raiders for Michael Bush.
Hardesty is the same kind of runner and looks to have more upside. Bush fell in the draft because of injury too. Hardesty looks to be more of a pass catcher and more elusive.
Hardesty does not have Michael Bush’s freak athleticism
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 24, 2010 5:57 PM EDT up reply actions
Hardesty is better. I like Bush, but what are you talking about??
LET'S GO OAK-LAND!
by Brownie's Year on Apr 24, 2010 6:31 PM EDT up reply actions
How long a wait until they start signing undrafted free agents? Last year it seemed to start right away. I am sure there are a few players remaining that the Browns had on their board.
in looking back, I’m pretty pleased overall. Didn’t know much about hardesty but am now pretty excited. And I see mccoy being one of the steals of this entire draft. The defense is also immediætely much better.
by Dawg Nuts on Apr 24, 2010 6:11 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
Hardesty/Haden
Hardesty-If he can do half of what that video shows, then I would consider him a worthwhile pickup. Being as we have him now, Harrison, Davis and Jennings plus Hillis(?) we have to drop somebody. Jennings is trying to be Edwards Jr…and Davis may be able to shake his injury bug. Harrison will stay, Hillis will stay, so I’m thinking Davis and Jennings will be out.
Haden-Im praying he is the second coming of Revis. Ochocinco would hate that, facing off twice against him, and occasionally having to meet the real Revis…
Seriously, he didn’t waste time did he?
They gone have to stop sleeping on me one day.. I gotta be one of the best
About 3 hours ago by Eric Wright Cleveland Browns – Cornerback
I’m hoping we have a quality receiver who wants to be here and is ready to prove himself unlike B.E. Plus with his Mom being a cut-woman and his dad being a former pro bball player, he should be pretty tough. I’m full of optimism.
by the irish chop on Apr 24, 2010 7:34 PM EDT up reply actions
See his interview from before the draft. He listed Cribbs — obviously before he knew he was going to Cleveland — as one of the guys he looks up to. Says he understands that the NFL does not need him, as there are plenty of other guys out there who can play.
Great background. His mom is a fight doctor.
By the way, he started as a punter!
by TheDriveStillHurts on Apr 26, 2010 1:18 AM EDT up reply actions
He is the kind of late round pick I love. Speed, size, raw (so he drops), with evidence of solid work ethic and a willingness to do what coaches ask (moving from punter), and seems to “get it”.
What’s not to like?
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
Very solid post. Couldn’t agree more. Very happy with Holmgrens first Brownies draft. Addresses pretty much every area with almost top position guys. With Mccoy in the 3rd, that’s pretty much a steal. Colt faced better teams than any of our past drafted qb’s. Also comes in with a better o-line than Couch had. All in all I’m pretty excited about the future of our Cleveland Browns.
by The naome40 on Apr 24, 2010 7:42 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
Don’t worry so much about Hardesty’s injuries, fella’s. I’m down here near Knoxville and watched every game he played the last two years.
He’s as tough as they come!!!
Last year Tennessee don’t win more than 4 games without him. 1,300+ yds. and 10+ td’s behind a suspect line (a no-no in the SEC) AND no passing game until late in season is what we’re getting.
Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi and USC (all top tier D’s) couldn’t stop him. Nick Saban even said he ‘s the toughest RB his teams have faced in years.
Even when nageed with soreness, he’ll just catch more passes and lay some wood on some poor nickelback or linebacker.
Depending on the time split with Harrison. I’ll predict 600-800 yds. and 40-50 rec. and 10 td’s in his rookie season. He’ll be in the running for AFC Off. player of the week at least once and maybe even Rookie of the Year honors. More complete of a back than Ryan Matthews or Ben Tate who were taken ahead of him.
If you liked Deuce McCallister or even Matt Forte now, you’ll love this kid.
Also smart and as clean and humble as they get.
by theotherJimBrown on Apr 24, 2010 10:42 PM EDT reply actions
wow 10 TD’s? :) cmon now…
http://prideofcleveland.blogspot.com/
by Red-Right-88 on Apr 26, 2010 10:53 AM EDT up reply actions
I think we had a pretty good draft. Most likely above average, but not awesome. But as they say, you cannot tell until 3 years from now anyways.
I think the Ravens had the best draft of the division (dagnabbit!!), I thought the Steelers draft was ok, and I haven’t looked at the Bengals draft yet, but the pundits (yeah them) seem to think did pretty good as well.
Looks like its gonna be a fun preseason. I cant wait!
I am a little worried about the Ravens’ draft.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
I put it on Kindle.
If he explodes on the scene, they did amazing.
If his knee explodes like some team expect, I don’t see how they got much. Unless Cody gets into much better shape he is strictly a two down player. Neither of their TE’s are very good blockers.
And yes, I am trying to convince myself that Ozzie Newsome had a poor draft.
by Bernie19Kosar on Apr 25, 2010 1:49 AM EDT up reply actions
Cody doesn’t worry me at all. he may be fat as hell but that won’t work in the NFL. in college guys don’t have the form or strength to deal with someone that big, but in the NFL he’ll get pushed around. He’ll be like Ted Washington.
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 25, 2010 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions
The Ravens’ D needs players like that, though.
That’s pretty much Kelly Gregg’s job: take up blockers and space for two downs, then let their bevvy of pass rushers come on the field on third down. I think he has the strength not to get pushed around. He’s powerful.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
Fat does work actually.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 25, 2010 8:08 PM EDT up reply actions
Looks like a pretty solid draft; time will tell. I certainly think the possibilities are there for it to end up being a really good one.
I just hope, as toJB referenced a bit ago with Hardesty, that we got all character guys too. Guys that will work hard, push other players, do the “team” thing, and won’t bring off the field issues to the table.
As things stand now, I’m actually looking forward to this season quite a bit. Hopefully, with the run they went on at the end of 2009 and this draft and FA pick ups, they’ll be able to compete consistently this year.
Here we go Brownies!
Have to disagree with the last point, as I feel almost the exact opposite. The success of this draft is almost wholly independent of Colt McCoy.
McCoy is a total flier, an extreme shot in the dark as a pick. It will not surprise me if we take another QB next year, without McCoy having ever taken a snap. He’s Charlie Frye 2.0, he’s not being drafted as a “franchise QB” (ie, one you hitch your star to and precludes you from other pursuits at the position). If he becomes a top 10 starting QB this draft is obviously a success, but if he doesn’t this draft should still provide us with 2-3 starters, minimum. Thus, the success of this draft depends on what Haden, Ward, Hardesty, etc do.
www.lowbrowsophisticate.com
I agree mostly with this. At some point we do need a QB, but the biggest pick for me is TJ Ward. If this guy turns into a real safety, then I think this draft turns out as a win.
I think we need all three of our first picks to be at least serviceable starters and at least one of them to become a pro bowl level player to call this is a success. Normally I wouldn’t say that, but you the way those picks happened it was very clear that this FO was getting guys they valued highly. Especially with the trade up for Hardesty.
Actively seeking inspiration for a new handle
I think we need all three of our first picks to be at least serviceable starters and at least one of them to become a pro bowl level player to call this is a success.
I know this is not your major contention, but I don’t think it matters what round your good players come from when you evaluate a draft. If we got a top-10 QB and a #1WR from this draft, along with a solid backup guard and a sub-package DL who is in the rotation a lot, I think this draft is a win. Nevermind that such a draft would mean we missed on our first 3 picks but hit homeruns on days 2-3.
Obviously, this scenario is unlikely but unlikely things do happen.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
If you get a top 10 QB in a draft the whole thing is a win. But expecting any 3rd rounder to be a good QB is a bad idea.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 25, 2010 8:09 PM EDT up reply actions
*expecting every
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 25, 2010 8:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Obviously, this scenario is unlikely
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
Not talking directly to you.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 26, 2010 11:08 PM EDT up reply actions
Additionally, in this scenario (and reviewing only the one draft without consideration for any others this team had done) I’d say it was a good draft by a likely flawed FO. Hitting late shows that some things are being done well. Missing early at the same time means someone important probably screwed up.
Judgement on that scenario suffers errors from extremely SSS, but an interesting hypothetical regardless.
Actively seeking inspiration for a new handle
The problem is that SSS often never gets the chance to play itself out into a big enough one because the FO will always get the axe if they don’t find players. It could very well be a flawed FO, but if they keep getting hits from somewhere, I bet they keep their jobs. Sometimes it is better to be lucky than good?
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
Hi Kwoog.
I think this type of “take a flyer” pick of a QB was exactly what was called for in this particular draft, as beyond Bradford there really wasn’t anyone you’d want to hitch your wagon to.
Overall that stage 2nd round has taken a bit of a shine off I’m not convinced we needed a RB as to me we had 3 (Harrison, Hillis & Davis though maybe I’m reaching on Davis there). But on review these players could be good.
I’m hoping it’s another quiet (non flashy) but effective draft laying more foundations.
I’d still have loved to have seen an OLB like Kindle though. Can’t have it all.
Welcome Joe!
Go Seneca!
You don’t feel like you just contradicted yourself?
I think we agree that without McCoy, all of our 1st/2nd rounders have to succeed for this draft to be a success (or some combination of our early picks and a surprise). I think we also agree that if McCoy becomes a top 10 QB, this draft is a hit regardless of what else happens.
How is that independent of McCoy?
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
he means the draft can still be a success without mccoy developing into anything. whether it was your intention or not, the way the post is worded it sounds as if you feel the draft is a bad one if mccoy fails.
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 25, 2010 3:01 PM EDT up reply actions
On a QB it is. Especially that late in the 3rd.
by TheDriveStillHurts on Apr 26, 2010 1:21 AM EDT up reply actions
McCoy is a total flier
Exactly. Can’t believe I am agreeing with Kwoog.
(I will therefore refrain from analyzing why this draft proves that PS should have waited for BQ to come to him with our pick in the 2d in 2007. Oops.)
by TheDriveStillHurts on Apr 26, 2010 1:20 AM EDT up reply actions
Thanks for agreeing DSH. I admit it prompted me to review my position… but we’ll each just have to accept it, I guess. Go Browns.
(Man, no way Quinn lasts out of the first round in that draft. He probably doesn’t get to 25. The Ravens have confirmed they were trying to deal for him.)
www.lowbrowsophisticate.com
the fact that both DE’s are 31 & 32 for the browns is a bit disturbing for me. geathers is a project at that spot & will need all 2010 to develop. rogers is likely to get probation from the cleveland courts (the feds didnt take the case they remanded it to cleveland municipal) but i wouldnt be surprised with a 1 game suspension. the browns seem a bit vulnerable to the run at this point. it’ll be interesting to see if they can pickup another 5 technique DE in FA/Camp Cuts.
Clifton Geathers:
“I’m 6-8. Right now I weigh about 302. I’ve got 37 1/2-inch arms, did a 36-inch vertical, have a 7-foot, 2-inch wingspan and I’m just able to move. I’m a freaky guy. I think with a little coaching and a little polishing, I’ll be the best player probably in the league.”
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
You gunna answer your phone? I’m calling you.
LET'S GO OAK-LAND!
by Brownie's Year on Apr 25, 2010 12:56 PM EDT up reply actions
I am very excited to see Geathers.
Dude is a monster.
by Bernie19Kosar on Apr 25, 2010 3:58 PM EDT up reply actions
I think with a little coaching and a little polishing, I’ll be the best player probably in the league."
joe thomas is gonna have his ass for this little tidbit.
Joe Thomas heard that, peaked around the corner, and Geathers’ was clocked at a 3.87 running out of the building.
LET'S GO OAK-LAND!
by Brownie's Year on Apr 25, 2010 7:31 PM EDT up reply actions
And they will probably line up against each other…uh oh.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 25, 2010 8:11 PM EDT up reply actions
This is a great thing Geathers
by The naome40 on Apr 26, 2010 5:47 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I think he needs more confidence.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 25, 2010 8:11 PM EDT up reply actions
This is absolutely hilarious.
(Geathers’) uncle, James “Jumpy” Geathers, played 13 years in the NFL. He was known for his “forklift” move, in which he picked up a blocker and rammed the blocker into the quarterback
This begs two questions:
1) Why in the world did James go with the nickname “Jumpy,” which is terrible, instead of the much better “Forklift”?
2) Can we refer to Clifton as “Forklift” from now on?
Nice shout out for Da La Salle. Powerhouse, indeed. National record of 151 straight wins.
During that streak, my friends and I used to drive up and watch Maurice Jones-Drew and D.J. Williams run kids over. Williams had 40+ Tds one season. He’s now LB for Denver.
LET'S GO OAK-LAND!
by Brownie's Year on Apr 25, 2010 12:52 PM EDT reply actions
I think everyone in our division had a great draft. It’s almost a curse that this division is consistently so well run from the front-offices down.
Yes & No
Argument also run that coming from a tough division makes you a better bet to challenge for the SB.
There’s only one winner in this league.
Welcome Joe!
Go Seneca!
Wright, Haden, Brown, Ward. Looks pretty good, eh?
LET'S GO OAK-LAND!
by Brownie's Year on Apr 25, 2010 7:39 PM EDT up reply actions
I see too many scouting reports saying he’s bad at coverage.
by The Licensed Pessimist on Apr 25, 2010 8:20 PM EDT up reply actions
If McCoy were important to this draft he would have gone higher. Honestly it doesn’t seem that the FO really even cares that they got him or they expect him to be much more than a career backup. Overall though, we seem to have picked up hard hitting defenders and a potential marques colston type receiver – great draft as of now regardless of what Colt does
by HenryDawg on Apr 25, 2010 9:06 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
No, no, no. Just because you play hardball and try to hold off a pick doesn’t mean he isn’t worth anything. Why over value a player? McCoy was there in the third which is what it seemed we wanted to do. He fell right into our laps. I, personally think the opposite is true.
"Spartans never die Jorge. They're just missing in action."
by SpecialBrownie on Apr 25, 2010 9:26 PM EDT up reply actions
It seems apparent to me that the Colt McCoy pick was planned for months. Remember a couple months back when Mangini said that it would become clear what the Kamerion Wimbley 3rd round pick would be used for? And how about Mack Brown announcing the pick? The Browns knew he would last as long as he did. He didn’t just fall into their laps. I get sick of Mel Kiper and Todd McShay thinking they know their shit. All they do is bullshit on national TV and get paid more than I could ever hope to in my life.
I started rambling, my apologies.
One picture is worth 128K words.
i can’t for the life of me figure out how Todd and Mel get away with critiquing drafts and judging reaches and steals. they obviously have a much worse idea of whats going on than the guys doing it.
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 26, 2010 10:26 AM EDT up reply actions
A lot of people are afraid of heights. Not me, I'm afraid of widths --- Steven Wright
Hey now! dont be slammin Mel! Mcshay you can have, but I hated that steve young kept having to be long winded about everything.
http://prideofcleveland.blogspot.com/
by Red-Right-88 on Apr 26, 2010 10:57 AM EDT up reply actions
Mel Kiper is worse than Todd McShay. Mel Kiper CAN NOT admit he is wrong. he thinks every team is stupid for passing on Clausen and even said if Clausen wasn’t successful this year it would be because of coaching, not clausen.
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 26, 2010 11:49 AM EDT up reply actions
Mel’s a smug son of a bitch who needs to get his head out of his ass. I don’t mind McShay so much, and more often than not he’s got a better idea of what’s going on than Mel.
One picture is worth 128K words.
I am the other way.
I like how Mel sticks to his guns. McShay is an ass.
by Bernie19Kosar on Apr 26, 2010 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions
sticking to your guns is only good if your guns are loaded.
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 26, 2010 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions
But at this point in time, we only have opinions.
Kiper has had no problem saying that he missed on a kid. They show a clip every season with him saying Dilfer is going to be a great QB.
Kiper has strong convictions, but he isn’t above laughing at himself. McShay on other hand comes off as smug and at times just makes things up.
by Bernie19Kosar on Apr 26, 2010 6:26 PM EDT up reply actions
maybe there is a difference with how they handle things down the road, but when talking about this season’s draft, Kiper came off as the more smug and cocky of the two.
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 26, 2010 8:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Mayock>Kiper>>>McShay.
If we are talking about the ESPN guys I agree, but I would much rather listen to mayock.
I teach good life choices. That’s why I almost didn’t graduate High School.
Mayock said Alex Mack was the #3 center in the 2009 draft class. Alex Mack is now about the #3 center in the NFL.
"Smokescreen."
Mayock is occasionally good, but I can’t respect anyone who put Thomas ahead of Berry or anyone ahead of Mack in the 2009 Center class.
Where are all of those people who were arguing with me about that kid from Oregon being better than Mack?
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
The one who went to Buffalo?
"Spartans never die Jorge. They're just missing in action."
by SpecialBrownie on Apr 26, 2010 9:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Yes. Or the other one from Louisville. Wood?
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
…Sure.
"Spartans never die Jorge. They're just missing in action."
by SpecialBrownie on Apr 26, 2010 9:52 PM EDT up reply actions
Where is moon?
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 26, 2010 11:08 PM EDT up reply actions
He loved Unger. In fact, that started our first argument.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 26, 2010 11:09 PM EDT up reply actions
Vinny Cerato said Mel Kiper is respected among teams and has sources with them, but McShay is an idiot and every FO laughs at him. He says McShay doesn’t really have any sources with teams.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 26, 2010 8:13 PM EDT up reply actions
is this really surprising? Kiper has earned their respect. I have heard this from many sources, not just right now.
I teach good life choices. That’s why I almost didn’t graduate High School.
Kiper doesn’t either, or else he wouldn’t have looked foolish going against McShay on where Clausen would be drafted.
One player means everything?
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 27, 2010 6:44 PM EDT up reply actions
I’ll trust Vinny over you in this situation. Nothing personal.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 30, 2010 5:30 PM EDT up reply actions
Vinny also is in a front office and knows people from other FO’s.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on May 1, 2010 7:14 PM EDT up reply actions
Steve Young obviously had 1 too many concussions. He just interrupts people and says the oddest things that leave everyone dumbfounded.
Does anyone know what Matt Millen said that he had to apologize for?
by HenryDawg on Apr 26, 2010 2:19 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
He was joking with Jaworski about being a Polack (or something to that effect), mainly in regards to having a fried baloney sandwich I think.
Is fried balogna a Polish dietary staple?
Dawgs By Nature -- where Hitler, apparently, 'did some good things'.
It’s not bad. My grandmother used to make it.
Dawgs By Nature -- where Hitler, apparently, 'did some good things'.
tastes a lot like a hot dog to me, but still slightly different.
I hate the steelers the way a mother loves a child.
by notthatnoise on Apr 26, 2010 8:07 PM EDT up reply actions
My mom used to make it. I recommend over regular bologna.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
Same.
"Spartans never die Jorge. They're just missing in action."
by SpecialBrownie on Apr 26, 2010 9:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Yup. I never eat regular bologna, but I’ll eat a fried bologna sandwich. My dad use to make them all the time.
by Buckeye Brad on Apr 27, 2010 1:05 PM EDT up reply actions
G & R Tavern, Waldo, Ohio – Worth the trip for the fried bologna.
"...maybe this year, there's no gorilla" - YoDaddyWags
by woodsmeister on Apr 26, 2010 10:21 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I am pleased with this draft. Haden is young and full of talent. He should only get better at the CB position as he gets more and more comfortable in that position on defense. I was VERY surprised at the pick for Ward and Hardesty. Hardesty much more than Ward. I’ve looked over as much info as I could digest on the two and I’m pretty happy we got them. Ward should start at S for us and make teams think twice about throwing over the middle. He also use to play CB so he should fair ok in coverage when needed. Hardesty looks like he “could” be a great find in this draft. He shows good hands, quick burst, and great vision in everything I’ve seen from him. And of course Colt, who I can’t believe fell to us in the 3rd. I think Colt will thrive if we implement a WCO and having a year to sit and learn behind Delhomme. Is it time for pre-season yet? I’m ready!
A lot of people are afraid of heights. Not me, I'm afraid of widths --- Steven Wright
People can whine a bit about “reaches” but remember the biggest knocks on Ward and Hardesty is the injury concerns. Heckert is just trusting his medical staff’s evaluation of these guys and his scouts have them rated higher than what the media does. Cleveland Frowns wrote a nice article about it.
The one pick who’s potential doesn’t really excite me is Larry Asante. I don’t think he is really much of an NFL starting safety unless the Browns plan on using some unorthodox 5 db sets that use a pair of hybrid box safeties. I think the Browns let Brad Seely near the draft board and now have another special teams weapon in Seely’s toolbox.
"Smokescreen."
at the same time, in the 5th and 6th round, you either are drafting for potential or depth. you are either drafting a guy like geathers who is risky but has potential, or a guy like Asante where you know what you are getting but not a lot of upside. Asante doesn’t have a lot of upside but he can be a solid reserve.
before the draft we only had 3 safeties on our roster; Elam, Adams (who is a FS/CB and strictly a backup) and Sorenson (strictly ST and I don’t want to see him on D). not only did we need a starting safety but we did at least need one backup for depth. if we got just one safety, we would only have one reserve safety that I would ever trust on Defense (adams). you need at least too.
I think they think of asante as a depth guy who fills a roster spot. I don’t honestly think he is very much involved in their long term plans…and what is wrong with drafting a depth guy who can play on ST that late in the draft? asante was maybe the most polished and NFL ready safety left. Reshad jones might have more upside but asante can do more right away. the only other guy I would have considered in that situation was Kurt coleman…but I trust Heckert’s judgement here.
I teach good life choices. That’s why I almost didn’t graduate High School.
I agree, I view Asante as a backup safety and starting special teamer, but a guy who will get in there and hit you….hard. I think this is a good thing to have and can be particularly useful is used appropriately. The Browns prior to this offseason had 1 viable secondary player under contract, the situation was dire. We have since tendered Elam, re-signed Adams, traded for Brown, and drafted 3 players that could potentially see the field in Haden, Ward, and Asante.
Has Elam not signed his tender yet? What are these guys waiting for?
by TheDriveStillHurts on Apr 26, 2010 7:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Others in our division are able to take S prospects that don’t seem to have much potential and make them work. Landry, Ndukwe, Zibikowski, etc. Asante is the definition of a “football player” in my book.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
Ndukewe and Zibi… miss them.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 26, 2010 11:10 PM EDT up reply actions
( I miss them)
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 26, 2010 11:10 PM EDT up reply actions
They gone have to stop sleeping on me one day.. I gotta be one of the best
About 3 hours ago by Eric Wright Cleveland Browns – Cornerback
I’m saying cuz they played for ND.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 27, 2010 6:45 PM EDT up reply actions
I know, i was just giving you the business about the whole switching team thing. I hope you stay around, personally, you have good insight and knowledge, I just have to wear my ND filter sunglasses!
They gone have to stop sleeping on me one day.. I gotta be one of the best
About 3 hours ago by Eric Wright Cleveland Browns – Cornerback
If you notice a pattern, its the QBs I follow.
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 30, 2010 5:31 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree. Really, elam was our only full time safety and adams was kind of the FS/CB slot guy for a lot of the season. We did need 2 safeties, if not just for depth. I feel confident in our secondary and that rob ryan will again be able to generate pressure.
I teach good life choices. That’s why I almost didn’t graduate High School.
strongly agree with your point about potential and depth. this guy obviously showed something that made the front office think he could contribute, which is about all you can really expect that low. if he contributes a little, good enough; if he contribues a lot, its a steal; if he does nothing, you haven’t really lost a lot. given our need at DB, this seems like the perfect kind of pick in rds. 5 – 7.
yep. I would honestly prefer a guy like asante who is smart an experienced, than someone who might have more physical skills, but is a little raw. I just think we need depth and smarts at the position and god forbid someone gets hurt, we at least have someone who can start.
I teach good life choices. That’s why I almost didn’t graduate High School.
I’m probably going to bring on a shyte storm here, but was Adams really all that bad in coverage or did he just look bad because of the length of time he had to try and maintain it? At the very least it seemed he was a decent tackler.
Mike Adams is not all that great. Better than guys we’ve had recently like Cousin, Poteat, Ivy, etc. But honestly shouldn’t be on the roster of a playoff team IMO. We should hang on to him until it is clear younger, more talented guys are outplaying him.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
In retrospect, the last paragraph of this post is not worded the way I would have liked to have worded it. I meant to say something like “If Colt McCoy becomes a legitimate starting QB for the Browns, it would go a long way towards making this draft a success”.
Mild risk as a 3rd rounder in this seemingly deep draft class, huge reward potential. If that potential is realized—and it is unlikely for any QB to succeed in the NFL—there is almost no way that this draft is a bust.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
http://www.cleveland.com/podcast_files/grossi042610.mp3
Tony Grossi Comments on the browns draft. Nothing ground breaking, but interesting none the less.
A lot of people are afraid of heights. Not me, I'm afraid of widths --- Steven Wright
Its funny how every single mock had Geathers going to the Browns and that’s exactly what happened
by The Licensed Pessimist on Apr 27, 2010 11:02 AM EDT reply actions
Like Mine?
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 27, 2010 6:49 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m watching the post-draft press conference right now from clevelandbrowns.com. It’s hilarious to me everytime I watch Mangini in front of the reporters. He just seems annoyed, uncomfortable, and slightly constipated the whole time. LOL
A lot of people are afraid of heights. Not me, I'm afraid of widths --- Steven Wright
I’m content with the Haden and Hardesty picks, I love the later round picks. The only pick I have a huge problem with is the TJ Ward pick
by The Licensed Pessimist on Apr 27, 2010 12:37 PM EDT reply actions
I’d have liked the faster safety at that pick, but I’m eager to be shown why that instinct is incorrect.
Actively seeking inspiration for a new handle
I wasn’t initially happy about the Ward pick, but the more I’ve learned about him, the better I like it. That’s somewhat the nature of the draft for fans, of course, but I’m now excited to see him pulverize Steelers.
yes. instinct is the key ward. from what I have heard, ward has tremendous instincts and always seems to be around the ball and knows where it is. I would much rather have him than Taylor mays, who looks like he has never seen a football. Ward is an old school, hit you in the mouth, ballhawk. i have seen some of the stuff on youtube. he might not have elite speed but is almost always around the play b/c he has a knack for knowing where it will be.
I teach good life choices. That’s why I almost didn’t graduate High School.
The patella tendon injury terrifies me. Other than that, I like Ward as a player. The argument can be made that he was a bad value at that spot.
I almost wanted Mays to be gone at that point because I just don’t think he is that good at football and passing on him there could be the kind of thing that bites you in the ass.
"Statistics are like bikinis. What they reveal is suggestive, but what they conceal is vital." - Aaron Levenstein
I still am “meh” on Haden, and I hope that I am wrong.
Love the Hardesty pick, don’t understand the Ward pick, and love the value on the rest. I really like Geathers.
by Bernie19Kosar on Apr 27, 2010 4:41 PM EDT up reply actions
In three years, Heckert is going to look like a genius for grabbing Haden a bit early. He’s going to be one of the top three players to come out of this draft. So sez golan.
Dawgs By Nature -- where Hitler, apparently, 'did some good things'.
The addition of Haden and Brown are going to do wonders for this team. With the amount of pressure we had on the QB last year, we should’ve been top 10 in interceptions. Look for the number of picks to sky rocket this year with 3 starting caliber CBs in the backfield. And if they do manage to catch the ball, TJ’s gonna lay the wood.
One picture is worth 128K words.
In golan’s gut we trust.
That's just noise.
by RelapsingDawgCatcher on Apr 28, 2010 4:00 PM EDT up reply actions
Lets go Best case scenario on Haden and TJ Ward. I think best case scenario Haden is Darelle Revis and TJ Ward is Troy Polamalu. However the likelyhood of both of them reaching the best case scenario is pretty slim.
Here’s hoping that Mangini pulls some delicious player development magic on this year’s draft.
"Smokescreen."
I think best case scenario Haden is Darelle Revis and TJ Ward is Troy Polamalu. However the likelyhood of both of them reaching the best case scenario is pretty slim.
Thank you for stating the obvious.
by Buckeye Brad on Apr 27, 2010 10:29 PM EDT up reply actions
slim
You called?
Scientific research has proven that you lose exactly 5.37 billion brain cells every time you listen to Todd McShay.
by TheRealSlimShady on Apr 30, 2010 5:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Its as if someone shined a bright light into the sky…..the image in the night sky…..Clausen in his speedo’s on a boat and Quinn in the background flexing. Da, Duh, Da……hhhheeeeyyy gggguuuyyys!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YGxZ2FKwQdI
at about 38 sec into it
A lot of people are afraid of heights. Not me, I'm afraid of widths --- Steven Wright
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
Non-stop coverage of the team with the best fans in the NFL, the Cleveland Browns.
Related FanPosts on Dawgs By Nature
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recent FanPosts
Follow DBN on Twitter
Browns Links
Local Media Sources
Official Browns Site
Orange and Brown Report
Cleveland Plain Dealer
Akron Beacon Journal
Browns Communities/Blogs
The Watercooler
Waiting for Next Year
Dawg Scooper
Dawg Talkers
Dawg Bones
The Browns Board
In Association With
Shutdown Corner - NFL - Yahoo! Sports
- Former high-school star Brian Banks does serious time on trumped-up charge, now hopes for an NFL shot
- Former ‘idiot kicker’ Mike Vanderjagt in trouble after accosting junior-high heckler
- Adrian Peterson blows teammates away in footraces; appears to be on the mend
- UPDATE: Charlie Sheen didn’t buy Lawrence Taylor’s Super Bowl ring
- Alex Smith gets blown up by Jon Beason over Cam Newton comments
