Colon's Potential Absence for 2010 Opens Up Right Side
by Neal Coolong on Jun 29, 2010 7:10 AM EDT
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The Steelers rocky off-season got potentially worse Monday, as RT Willie Colon suffered an Achilles injury during agility drills, and could miss the season.
NFL.com reported Monday Colon tore the tendon, and will miss the 2010 campaign. The Post-Gazette quotes Director of Football Operations Kevin Colbert saying the team would know more (Tuesday).
Thus begins what's become the hottest positional topic going into training camp; right tackle. Who are the candidates to replace the strongest offensive lineman on the roster?
Veteran Trai Essex filled in at right guard for Darnell Stapleton in 2009, after Stapleton started in the Steelers' Super Bowl XLIII victory. Stapleton was lost for the season, and is no longer on the roster. He is a combo G/T, and does have experience on his side. However, his performance was shaky at best throughout the season. His previous experience has been at both tackle positions as a back-up, and hadn't started at guard until last year.
The Steelers' new offensive line coach, Sean Kugler, brought veteran T Jonathan Scott with him when he came from Buffalo, seemingly for this exact scenario. No one questioned either tackle's starting spot - Colon or Max Starks. Scott is being looked upon to fend off younger challengers for the third spot on the depth chart.
Scott gave up a team-high seven sacks in Buffalo last season as a back-up for a Bills team mired in inadequacy.
Free agent options include former Cowboy Flozell Adams, former Buccaneer Donald Penn and former Cardinal Mike Gandy. None of the three had impressive 2009 seasons, probably a key reason why none of the three have landed on a roster.
Second-year man Ramon Foster got some time at guard last season after being signed as a rookie free agent from Tennessee as a tackle. The ceiling is said to be high for Foster, and with the possibility of Essex staying at right guard, Foster could compete with the veteran Scott for the RT job.
Rookie first-round pick Maurkice Pouncey also looks to contend for the RG spot, putting Scott, Essex and Foster head-to-head-to-head.
There's also second-year G/T Kraig Urbik, who spent all of 2009 inactive, and Tony Hills, who's seen as much playing time as Urbik has.
Simply put, it's a rich tapestry, and competition will bring out the first Steelers starting right tackle not named "Willie" since 2007. It's interesting, because the situation will bleed into the right guard position due to the amount of versatile but not polished combo linemen the Steelers have.
Pouncey was drafted as a center, and the team seemed to indicate through minicamp and OTAs that they wished to bring him along as a guard before handling the responsibilities of the anchor of the line. Moving Essex to tackle would open up the RG competition.
It creates pause for thought. Competition is a great thing, something Steelers coach Mike Tomlin thrives on, but with two spots for six linemen - four of which haven't been on this team more than a year, and only one of them having played for coach Kugler before - the amount of reps each of them will get with the first team is pretty limited.
It's a battle likely to extend deep into the preseason. But the offensive line is about unit ability more than individual talent. While Colon is an outstanding lineman - one of the best RTs in the game - the Steelers offensive line, coaches and players, must take the opportunity to exploit addition by subtraction, or all plans of an enhanced running game will be for naught.
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Nice post
But Foster is from Tennessee, not Texas. I’m liking him to take over at RT.
by SteelerMessican on Jun 29, 2010 7:52 AM EDT reply actions
Foster's College Position = RT
He played RT for most of his college career, but there was a question about his quickness to play it in the pros and projected as a guard. But he showed he could be explosive in the combine, rating as one of the top performers in the vertical jump, broad jump, the 20 yard dash and a few others. So he’s definitely a top candidate. In addition, we know Essex can move over to the tackle spot and Scott has the ability to play there as well. So while it’s a big loss, we can recover from it fairly well.
And just last week someone was posting we had no depth on the OL. :)
What this likely does is opens up a roster spot for one of the young guys. Hills, Urbik, Legursky, Chris Scott or one of our undrafted FAs now has a chance to make the team.
We can fluff it up
And I want the guys filling in as well as possible. But I feel the need to defend the position that we didn’t have any depth at T. None of these guys are ready to step in at T and be a sure starter. None of them was pushing Willie Colon before this. In fact all of them except scott was battling for the G spot. I don’t know about you but the G position is very different from the T position as in the T position requires a different skill set and is more valuable. Remember 2008 Willie? Slow off the hike, not quick enough, penalized a lot. That is what we may be looking at this year. So lets look at these guys.
Essex – If he was worth anything he would have been starting a long time ago and wouldn’t be challenged by an undrafted free agent for the guard position. I don’t think we can expect more out of Essex than what we have already seen, which is not starting material.
Scott – I doubt that in one off season he can turn it around. In a couple of years he may turn into a decent T, but Kugler as good as he has been reporter can not do one year wonders. For reference Jason Peters took 3 years to turn into a Pro Bowl Tackle. But there is always hope.
Urbik – You got to be kidding me right? This guy can’t even get a hat on Sundays and now we want to discuss about his possibilities of getting the starting RT position? There is no way Urbik is ready for the RT position and might not be on the team in a year or two if he doesn’t show any improvement.
Tony Hills – the fact that Neal didn’t even mention him in the original post says all that needs to be said about this guy. Once thought that once he gets over his leg injury he’d be one of the steals of the draft, Tony Hills has been a major disappointment. Personally I would much rather see him make strides and take the starting position and allow Foster to stay a guard so that when Pouncey moves to C, Foster can step right in. Chances of that happening, I’ll be nice and say 5 %.
Foster – This is the our only legitimate hope in my opinion. Foster can make a name for himself if he can fill in at least as admirably as he did the guard position when Chris K. went down. He has the build of a T and could have the quickness. I am not doubting this guy.
So Foster gives us our best hope imo. An undrafted rookie last year who was battling it out for the guard position before this injury. I said it before and I’ll say it again, we don’t have very much depth at tackle. We are now in the business of forcing prospective guards into tackles and thats not the business I’d like to be in. :)
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jun 29, 2010 8:47 AM EDT up reply actions
+84
Foster can make a name for himself if he can fill in at least as admirably as he did the guard position when Chris K. went down
When You Run The Ball Good Things Happen
+1 more makes 85
Well written, and your assessment of Urbik was right on. Of course, that’s 2010 Urbik. He may turn out to be a good OL prospect come 2012. Like you were pointing out about Peters, it takes time. I’d say more than any position, possibly, OL takes the longest to adjust to in the NFL…but once entrenched, OL can play well into their 30’s.
"Troy just made that guy look like a ham sandwich!" - Myron
by Fifty-Eight on Jun 30, 2010 10:50 PM EDT up reply actions
Very true
We’ll see, all I am saying, not this year.
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jul 1, 2010 10:35 AM EDT up reply actions
I think that most likely our starting RT will come from the current roster
However, I do believe that we should sign a FA to add depth and competition for the position.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
No way we sign a FA
I’d rather stick with the guys we got. No point in spending the extra money if you aren’t guaranteeing yourself an upgrade. Get someone to come in a push but I’m not going after none of the big names aka Adams.
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jun 29, 2010 8:49 AM EDT up reply actions
Never said Adams or any big name for that matter
It just seems to me…if you lose a guy, you should add a guy. Especially since Colon will not be hitting any of the performance bonuses this year. Don’t go out and sign a 3mill contract, but at least go bring in a guy who can compete to be on the depth chart. You never want to give someone an automatic seat.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jun 29, 2010 9:14 AM EDT up reply actions
i know you didn't
I didn’t say you did. If you read it closely I was agreeing with you. :) Its the OP that mentioned Adams which is why I included him.
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jun 29, 2010 12:56 PM EDT up reply actions
Scott's injury makes this even more pressing
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jun 29, 2010 1:11 PM EDT up reply actions
Tell me about it
we’re becoming the Charlie Brown of the NFL
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jun 29, 2010 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions
What - He was a stretch to make the roster
Scott’s injury makes this even more pressing
He was challenging Hills for a sweat suit on Sunday, not a hat.
by Steeler Nation VA on Jun 30, 2010 10:02 AM EDT up reply actions
Losing two tackles weeks before camp is a big deal. Competition is good, even if a guy has not chance to make the roster. And, as a rookie, you’d rather have him out there learning than nursing an injury.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jun 30, 2010 10:52 AM EDT up reply actions
Agreed
Foster recommended Pittsburgh check C. Scott out. Whether he is Fosters friend or Foster really thought he could be a good player for Pittsburgh doesn’t matter. The Steelers must have seen something in him or they wouldn’t have drafted him ahead of others tehy could have had in the late rounds.
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
by steeler junky on Jun 30, 2010 12:48 PM EDT up reply actions
I don;t know Tann....
It sure seems like we’re going to add a FA here pretty quick. I think doing so, for depth is important, but I don’t want a FA signing that will be looked at as a starter. If we take on Adams, I think people will be surprised at the pricetag we get him, or any other FA for that matter. It won’t be high.
My ideal would be to sign for depth, and get one of our younger guys, like Foster, in there to take the snaps all season. At the end of the year, we’ll have a young guy with some valuable experience, who more than likely would have made his share of “rookie” type mistakes, but heck…at least we’d have something at the end of the day to move forward with, instead of giving those snaps to a veteran like Adams, who’s going to make those rookie mistakes anyways because he’s Flozelle Adams. Get Adams (or someone else) for depth only, and we won;’t have to be worrying about some 35 year old huffer losing gas at the end of the season. Spot duty will keep him, and the line, fresh.
What do you think?
"Troy just made that guy look like a ham sandwich!" - Myron
by Fifty-Eight on Jun 30, 2010 10:56 PM EDT up reply actions
Especially not Adams
But it hasn’t happened yet. Lets wait and see what the FO does.
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jul 1, 2010 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions
Penn?
Penn is not an ex-Buccaneer. He is an unsigned restricted free agent who will have to return in 2010, even if he doesn’t want to. And he is an solid NFL starting left tackle—so that entire mention of ‘probably a key reason of why none of the three have landed on an NFL roster’ is completely inaccurate. He’s unsigned because he wants a larger, long-term contract that he seems to deserve. He would be a free agent for about one day if he was unrestricted. Just sayin.’
If this is a complete tear, Colon is finished.
Achilles injuries are basically career ending unless the player was unusually awesome to begin with.
Colon was a decent starter before.
He will be on the street after this. This sucks because he was finally proving himself to be a quality NFL RT.
This is a bigger loss for the Steelers than the article lets on.
I agree with you, dude
Coming back from an Achilles tear also involves trusting again in your plant foot, and at tackle, speed and strength coming out of your set position is your livelihood. More than rehab, this is also about the mental aspects. 2008 Willie showed us that he was not that strong in that area to begin with. This is devastating for our Oline.
"I am a sinner who does not expect forgiveness, but [Thank God] I am not a government official" Francis Wolcott in "Deadwood", Season 2
by Flying Polamalus on Jun 29, 2010 9:24 AM EDT up reply actions
Colon's Future
is now quite cloudy. As stated above or elsewhere he would have been playing for a big contract and while injured will still want a big contract. Coming off a serious injury it will be tough for Pittsburgh to come up with the money he will be seeking. With 2011 in limbo because of the pending strike, I agree with JH that we may have seen the last of Colon in black and gold…
When You Run The Ball Good Things Happen
Jim Wexell tweet:
MRI confirms that Willie Colon tore an Achiles’ tendon and will miss the 2010 season. Jonathan Scott likely to replace him.
Com on Johnny!
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
Revolving door
I mean Johnathan. lol I hope this works out.
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jun 29, 2010 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions
never seen him play
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jun 29, 2010 1:11 PM EDT up reply actions
me either
just joking
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jun 29, 2010 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions
Colon isn't that spectacular
Colon is an outstanding lineman – one of the best RTs in the game
I’m gonna go ahead and disagree with this. Willie Colon was a serviceable body on a weak offensive line. He was never going to contend for a Pro Bowl berth or anything like that. Losing him hurts because he’s one of the most experienced lineman, but being the most experienced linemen is Pittsburgh is akin to being the skinniest person trying out for the Biggest Loser. It still just doesn’t impress.
by Blitzburgh Brian on Jun 29, 2010 10:38 AM EDT reply actions
Colon isn't that spectacular
Colon is an outstanding lineman – one of the best RTs in the game
I’m gonna go ahead and disagree with this. Willie Colon was a serviceable body on a weak offensive line. He was never going to contend for a Pro Bowl berth or anything like that. Losing him hurts because he’s one of the most experienced lineman, but being the most experienced linemen is Pittsburgh is akin to being the skinniest person trying out for the Biggest Loser. It still just doesn’t impress.
by Blitzburgh Brian on Jun 29, 2010 10:39 AM EDT reply actions
Urmmm... per Steelers.com... Kevin Colbert says Chris Scott is hurt too
Rookie offensive lineman Chris Scott suffered a foot injury while working out at the University of Tennessee last week. As stated earlier, Willie Colon suffered an Achilles injury while working out on Monday. Both were evaluated by Steelers’ medical personnel today and they are scheduled for surgery on Wednesday. We will have further information regarding both once we know the results of each of their surgeries.
Unbelievable.
Has anyone checked to see whether Hallmark is secretly filming this season? This is totally a setup for a feel-good win-from-behind football movie. If we spot any suspicious-looking camera crews at training camp, we’ll know what the real deal is, and can confidently bet the farm on a Superbowl win…
"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Jun 30, 2010 9:08 AM EDT up reply actions
MOMMA
missed ya, lol and i wish
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jun 30, 2010 11:10 AM EDT up reply actions
Thanks, tann -
How’s married life? Tell your wife momma says hello…
"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Jun 30, 2010 5:51 PM EDT up reply actions
Will do
Married life is great, nothing like bacon and eggs in the morning. :)
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jul 1, 2010 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions
Lucky you
When we lived together; I got breakfast. After we got married, it stopped.
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
by steeler junky on Jul 1, 2010 5:46 PM EDT up reply actions
heh
If I wanted bacon and eggs in the morning I had to make them before and after marriage. I love my wife but she ruined Kraft Dinner the first time she cooked for me.
How do I break it to the cat that since he has been declawed, the rabbit he sees in our backyard would kick his sorry butt?
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Jul 1, 2010 11:07 PM EDT up reply actions
coming from
I know where you are coming from. I had to teach my wife how to cook anything that didn’t require boiling water and meals in boxes with instructions. But after 35 years she is doing OK.
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
by steeler junky on Jul 2, 2010 7:08 AM EDT up reply actions
She actually likes to cook
I mean I don’t think I could have married a woman that doesn’t lol
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jul 2, 2010 2:19 PM EDT up reply actions
Throw Momma on the Train!
Long time no see, good to have you back! hope all is well…
"Troy just made that guy look like a ham sandwich!" - Myron
by Fifty-Eight on Jun 30, 2010 11:01 PM EDT up reply actions
Thanks!
I hate missing all the accumulated wisdom here, but sometimes life intervenes…
"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Jul 1, 2010 3:37 AM EDT up reply actions
I am glad...
life gave you time to drop in. Hope all is well with you.
How do I break it to the cat that since he has been declawed, the rabbit he sees in our backyard would kick his sorry butt?
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Jul 1, 2010 11:08 PM EDT up reply actions
If you like eating
croissants and pain au chocolat and stuff like that, then it’s vey good. Although it’s really hot in Europe just now…
"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Jul 2, 2010 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions
Yes
I think I would like those things but I would need my a/c as well.
We are just back from a visit to the maritime provinces. I am afraid to get on the scale. The restaurant for one of the hotels we stayed in has a four star rating (not certain who’s rating system but even the bacon and eggs breakfast was incredible).
How do I break it to the cat that since he has been declawed, the rabbit he sees in our backyard would kick his sorry butt?
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Jul 12, 2010 9:25 PM EDT up reply actions
What a Nightmare....
This news that Chris Scott is hurt too puts the icing on the cake. The 2010 Steelers have already lost three starters and the ball has yet to be snapped.
As always this was a good post Neal. I did not know that Fsoter was a potential replacement, and I agree that he seems to be the best prospect.
None of the other prospects really excite me. (For another, albeit less detailed, take on the Colon situation, click here.)
I just want to comment on what someone said above about Kraig U. Let’s not read too much into the fact that the guy did not suit up or play last year. Leon Searcy did not play much if at all his first year, and he turned out to be pretty good.
On the flip side Brendan Stai breaking into the starting lineup in 1995 was a key element in the Steelers run to Super Bowl XXX. But Stai regressed as time went on and eventually got cut.
I also picked up on the fact that Neal did not even mention Tony Hills….
by Hombre de Acero on Jun 29, 2010 11:04 AM EDT reply actions
Urbik
What I’m reading into Urbik’s situation is that he’s swamped in the guard pool and has been trying to add some center ability to his skill set this offseason to improve his chances of sticking. If he’s been getting time in practice to develop tackle skills or has been working on that on his own, I haven’t heard anything about it.
by barnerburner on Jun 29, 2010 11:11 AM EDT up reply actions
I understand
that in the past it has worked out for guys not suiting up their first year. But if you listen to the coaches they don’t even mention urbik. If they saw anything in him he would be fighting for the guard position but before this injury it was a Pouncey/Essex/Foster battle. Urbik wasn’t in the discussion, he may get put in there now because of this injury and Essex/Foster/Scott will battle for the starting tackle position. So I don’t see him making either position.
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jun 29, 2010 1:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Foster is LG
Urbik was back up at RG
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
by steeler junky on Jun 29, 2010 1:08 PM EDT up reply actions
Foster
could potentially play T, he plaed it at college and has the build for a T. People just question his quickness.
If Urbik was the back up then why didn’t he come in for Chris. K when he got hurt?
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jun 29, 2010 1:10 PM EDT up reply actions
oops
confused that.
I think either guard postion are almost interchangeable. Hence is why Foster did play LG in relief of Chris K. and is now competing for the starting job at RG with Essex and Pouncey. But I think Foster can play T too. We’ll see.
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jun 29, 2010 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions
Agreed that why I listed him as competition for the tackle spot.
I know C. Scott is hurt thats why I said they needed a quality competitor. from wavers.
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
by steeler junky on Jun 29, 2010 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions
I'm confused
its ok, it happens starting at too much Java and SQL code today.
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jun 29, 2010 1:13 PM EDT up reply actions
Thats ok
I am an old two finger typer. Sometimes I have to hope people can read between the lines. Takes to long for large explanations.
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
by steeler junky on Jun 29, 2010 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions
I have been told
I type using the Missionary Method… seek and ye shall find… the key you are looking for! I used to be that bad… somewhere after 30+ years at a keyboard I got a bit faster.
How do I break it to the cat that since he has been declawed, the rabbit he sees in our backyard would kick his sorry butt?
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Jun 29, 2010 4:45 PM EDT up reply actions
You're typing in the missionary position?
Dude, you’re a wild man!
And you wonder why your keys are starting to stick…
"Honestly, you'd think I'd won four Super Bowls there the way [Steelers fans] treat me... don't get me wrong, they want to win, but if you lay it all out there on every game, they'll accept whatever results they get." -- Merril Hoge
by Blount Trauma on Jun 29, 2010 9:13 PM EDT up reply actions
I did go with a wireless keyboard and mouse
How do I break it to the cat that since he has been declawed, the rabbit he sees in our backyard would kick his sorry butt?
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Jun 30, 2010 12:35 AM EDT up reply actions
Very wise.
I would hate to read of your untimely demise after strangling on a USB cable…
"You learn more in failure than you do in success." - Mike Tomlin
by Rebecca Rollett on Jun 30, 2010 9:10 AM EDT up reply actions
Urbik and Hills
I’m not trying to suggest they are both worthless, just that they haven’t suited up yet. More of my concern now is the reps each player will get, especially with a new coach.
‘Course, I wrote this without knowing Chris Scott wouldn’t be in the mix either. Whatever, though, the point is, we have lots of G/Ts, and they’ll all shuffle between the 1-3rd teams. It may take a bit to get the right mix of guys.
Good luck, Coach Kugler!
by Neal Coolong on Jun 30, 2010 6:00 AM EDT up reply actions
I don't think Neal is too high on Hills...
I would go so far as to say most people aren’t. There’s others I’d give a higher chance of earning a spot on the final 53…
"Troy just made that guy look like a ham sandwich!" - Myron
by Fifty-Eight on Jun 30, 2010 11:04 PM EDT up reply actions
Waver wire
The Steelers will be watching waver wires for tackles. If nothing else but competition. The Steelers competition at Right guard. RG/C Urbik – C/RG Pouncey – C/RG Leguskey – G D. Brooks …
Competition at Right Tackle LG/T Foster – RG/T Essex – T/G J. Scott – T K. Jolly – T T. Hills. I had hoped Rookie G/T Chris Scott would push some of the others. Now the Steelers need a Quality competitor.
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
Chris Scott is hurt
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jun 29, 2010 1:09 PM EDT up reply actions
boots
Steelers buying combat boots for O lineman traing?
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
by steeler junky on Jun 29, 2010 6:11 PM EDT up reply actions
Apparently Flozell Adams is visiting Pittsburgh...
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/steelers/s_688164.html
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
Well...
Not the most exciting news to me. I’ve openly hated on Flozell for a few years. Living with a Cowboys fan made it easy. I watched Flozell weekly, and never came away awfully impressed. Like I said yesterday, Flozell is a walking penalty machine. In my opinion even worse than a young Willie C.
But… after some reflection, he is a better option than what we appear to have now at tackle. I’m not a big fan of this potential move, but I also didn’t care for the Leftwich signing the first time around. In our front office I will trust.
"I feel and think much as you do, care about many of the things you care about, although most people do not care about them. You are not alone."
-Kurt Vonnegut
by NYSteelersFan4 on Jun 29, 2010 1:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah
I’m not really for it, but if the coaches think the drop off from Colon to whoever is big enough…then I am behind it. I hope it works out.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jun 29, 2010 1:44 PM EDT up reply actions
Hopefully
one of the other guys are good enough to where we’ll cut him after pre-season.
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jun 29, 2010 1:50 PM EDT up reply actions
Bring in a veteran example
Of what not to do.
by barnerburner on Jun 29, 2010 1:51 PM EDT up reply actions
+1
"Troy just made that guy look like a ham sandwich!" - Myron
by Fifty-Eight on Jun 30, 2010 11:06 PM EDT up reply actions
Competiton
If they bring in Flozell. I hope one of the young guys decides they want more than a bench warmer pay check and at least tries to earn the starting job.
If Pittsburgh really thinks they need more than competition ( an actual starter) they better look farther into FA than Flozell. I still like Gaithers, but Pittsburgh would have to give up a 3d round pick and probably a 3 year deal. if the Ravens would even consider dealing with Pittsburgh
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
Forget Gaithers...
The Ravens are never going to give up such a promising talent for such a low price. And to a (perhaps the) division rival to boot.
"I feel and think much as you do, care about many of the things you care about, although most people do not care about them. You are not alone."
-Kurt Vonnegut
by NYSteelersFan4 on Jun 29, 2010 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions
Never know
McNabbs with a division rival. It could be feasable. Gaithers would be stud on our team IMO, and hes not super happy over there in Baltiwhore.
Not a big Gaither fan
Talent, yes, but doesn’t really have the lunch pail toting Pittsburgh Steeler attitude. They wanted to trade him mostly because he’s not a guy that gives 150%. And it’s not like they’re a bunch of lazy bums and we could save him from a bad team and turn him around. If he’s not giving it all for the Ravens I wouldn’t expect us to make a man out of him.
"Honestly, you'd think I'd won four Super Bowls there the way [Steelers fans] treat me... don't get me wrong, they want to win, but if you lay it all out there on every game, they'll accept whatever results they get." -- Merril Hoge
by Blount Trauma on Jun 29, 2010 9:19 PM EDT up reply actions
Thanks
good to know
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
by steeler junky on Jun 30, 2010 5:58 AM EDT up reply actions
Dude he plays in Baltimore
I’d be pissed if I had to live there too. Its understandable.
Ozzie won't trade him in the division
Pittsburgh would have to give up a 3d round pick and probably a 3 year deal. if the Ravens would even consider dealing with Pittsburgh
They have been asking for a 1st as I remember. So they are going to trade him within the division to a team that is desperate for a OT for only a 3rd. Ozzie is not that stupid. He may let the Steelers have him now for multiple first round picks.
Only the Eagles trade a critical player within the division. That trade will haunt them for years.
by Steeler Nation VA on Jun 30, 2010 12:50 PM EDT up reply actions
draft
Actually before the draft the Ravens were trying to deal him. But couldn’t get more than a fourth round offer.
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
40+ posts
and yet I have to be the first to invoke the name of LeCharles Bentley? For shame, gentlemen, for shame…
"Honestly, you'd think I'd won four Super Bowls there the way [Steelers fans] treat me... don't get me wrong, they want to win, but if you lay it all out there on every game, they'll accept whatever results they get." -- Merril Hoge
I thought I'd seen reports of him doing some work at RT in preparation for his triumphant return
by barnerburner on Jun 29, 2010 11:39 PM EDT up reply actions
dream backfield/oline
LeCharles Bentley, Capizzi and 3TEs at the other spots. John Kuhn at FB and Redman in the backfield. I dunno who would play QB. Shane Boyd?
No idea about WR but Lee Mays and Jeremy Bloom would have to be in there
"all my bitches, take some shots!"
by dankdiggety on Jun 29, 2010 11:52 PM EDT up reply actions
Why not actually fill out the O-line?
Bring back Stapleton – if that knee injury didn’t kill him, it only made him stronger. While we’re at it, pluck Shipley back from the Eagles and reacquire Chukky Okobi and Sean Mahan.
Shipley – Mahan – Bentley – Okobi – Stapleton
Stapleton always struck me as a road grading RT in waiting, and the T-Rex is perfectly cut out for manning the blindside. We’ll be the first team to send all 5 offensive lineman to the same Pro Bowl, count on it.
by barnerburner on Jun 30, 2010 12:11 AM EDT up reply actions
I like it
with all those centers you could really do a nice unbalanced line. Just shift the whole thing left or right as you see fit.
by Steely McSmash on Jun 30, 2010 10:22 PM EDT up reply actions
I can find no flaws in your thinking. Let's get this done.
"Troy just made that guy look like a ham sandwich!" - Myron
by Fifty-Eight on Jun 30, 2010 11:09 PM EDT up reply actions
At WR
You gotta have Tyler Grisham aka the next Wes Welker!
by Chicago Steeler on Jun 30, 2010 9:36 AM EDT up reply actions
Don't forget Willie Reid.
"I feel and think much as you do, care about many of the things you care about, although most people do not care about them. You are not alone."
-Kurt Vonnegut
by NYSteelersFan4 on Jun 30, 2010 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions
And in slot
Fred Gibson aka the next Blacksicko Burress
and re-sign Duece Staley
I’m sure he has been keeping himself in top shape and has gas for one more year.
by SteelerMessican on Jun 30, 2010 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions
Gibson?
Wasn’t he the guy who was like 6-4 and 150 and dumb. Turn him sideways and you could not see him. He also could not learn the playbook. But great potential.
by Steeler Nation VA on Jun 30, 2010 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Why talk about LeCharles Bentley when TJ Duckett is available?
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jun 30, 2010 8:13 AM EDT up reply actions
Wait a minute...
By now, Duckett might be big enough to play tackle. You may be on to something there Johnny.
"I feel and think much as you do, care about many of the things you care about, although most people do not care about them. You are not alone."
-Kurt Vonnegut
by NYSteelersFan4 on Jun 30, 2010 9:58 AM EDT up reply actions
IMO Starting OL
LT – Flozell
LG – Kemo
C – Hartwig
RG – Pouncey
RT – Starks
Sunday Hats – J Scott (T/G) & Urbek (G/C)
Sweat Suits – Foster & ?
Cut – Essex, Hills
IR: Colon, C Scott
End of season OL (assuming no more injuries)
LT – Starks
LG – Kemo
C – Pouncey
RG – Urbek
RT – Foster
Hats – J Scott & Hartwig
Sweat Suits: ?
Cut Flozell: Too many penalties
by Steeler Nation VA on Jun 30, 2010 10:17 AM EDT reply actions
I'd keep Essex...
While not a standout at any position, he has the ability to play most of them. He’s got too much value as a back up.
"I feel and think much as you do, care about many of the things you care about, although most people do not care about them. You are not alone."
-Kurt Vonnegut
by NYSteelersFan4 on Jun 30, 2010 10:20 AM EDT up reply actions
And zero upside as we saw last year
He’s collected too many paychecks already
by Steeler Nation VA on Jun 30, 2010 10:23 AM EDT up reply actions
not
when you’re team is down 2 tackles already, we need as many bodies as we can get
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jun 30, 2010 11:11 AM EDT up reply actions
There's a difference between zero upside and zero ability
He’s not great, but we do need his ability and versatility to try to regain some sense of stability.
I didn’t mean to make it rhyme that much, I swear.
by barnerburner on Jun 30, 2010 11:40 AM EDT up reply actions
Lets see who does better J Scott or Essex
IMO only one of the 2 makes the team. Both are vets with limited ability and not much/no real upside.
Lets keep some of the youth and let them develop. Give them a chance to improve.
Legursky is the other swing man who makes the team, but does not dress.
G/T swing – Scott and Foster
C/G swing – Urbek and Legursky
Unless they feel that they need another T.
by Steeler Nation VA on Jun 30, 2010 12:36 PM EDT up reply actions
9 or 10 OL
The OL is also competing with the DL for the extra roster spot. Last few years they kept an extra DL. Do they keep an extra OL fearing they can’t get the player to the practice squad. C Scott is on IR and will be available in 2011.
by Steeler Nation VA on Jun 30, 2010 12:41 PM EDT up reply actions
Scott
Did they actually put Chris Scott on IR today? I haven’t seen anything on him yet today.
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
by steeler junky on Jun 30, 2010 12:56 PM EDT up reply actions
I read that they expect 3-4 month recovery. They are not going to save a roster spot for a player who has not even practiced with pads on. Right?
by Steeler Nation VA on Jun 30, 2010 12:58 PM EDT up reply actions
my thoughts exactly
Can’t make the club in the tub – Chaz Noll
They could put him on the PUP and then they have from week 6-9 to put him on the 53, the IR or waive him. Not sure there’d be much point though.
Could do the same to Colon really if they think he could be back later in the season.
by Steely McSmash on Jun 30, 2010 10:29 PM EDT up reply actions
You're like an unintentional Dr. Suess!
Even your name rhymes!
"Troy just made that guy look like a ham sandwich!" - Myron
by Fifty-Eight on Jun 30, 2010 11:12 PM EDT up reply actions
are you nuts?
SO there are no injuries and you think we’re going to shuffle 4 out of 5 line positions? We’d have to have like a 2 win season to be that crazy.
by Steely McSmash on Jun 30, 2010 10:26 PM EDT up reply actions
C. Scott to start off season on PUP list
That way he can miss the first 6 games of the season before they have to make a decision on him. He won’t count against the roster while he is on the PUP list recovering from his surgery. 3 months should put him coming back some time in October.
I don't see why they wouldn't just IR him
Its not like a rookie, who misses camp and the first 6 weeks, is going to be that valuable.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jun 30, 2010 3:57 PM EDT up reply actions
Agree
Did not hgear that he did anything special during OTA’s.
by Steeler Nation VA on Jun 30, 2010 4:00 PM EDT up reply actions
IR
If they put Scott on IR; They can’t put him on practice squad when he is healed. He won’t be able to rejoin team practices till next springs OTAs. And he won’t learn a thing and neither will the Steelers.
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
by steeler junky on Jul 1, 2010 5:51 PM EDT up reply actions
PUP list
If the Steelers put him on the PUP list till october They then could put him on waivers. As soon as he clears waivers he could then be added to the practice squad, if they want to.
The more I learn -The less I think I know! Just enjoy reading and sharing.
Best in the Game?
Willie Colon is not even close to one of the best in the game. He can’t get the snap count right and he can’t block. He might be somewhere around 110th best in the game.
Try again
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jul 1, 2010 9:46 AM EDT up reply actions
I'd
hate to get in an argument with you in a bar. lol
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jul 1, 2010 10:41 AM EDT up reply actions
Seriously
I’m surprised I don’t get punched more often. I guess that’s the benefit of watching all the games with your brother who is like 6’3 and very big.
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jul 1, 2010 12:02 PM EDT up reply actions
alley and oop
with your brother who is like 6’3 and very big
TWSS
Steelers football is 60 mins.
by tannofsteel84 on Jul 2, 2010 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions
Gross dude
"I'm from Maryland, and no one can beat me!"
by John Stephens on Jul 6, 2010 8:44 AM EDT up reply actions
We used to have a good o-line
And they let Faneca go because they were too cheap to pay him. Now NY has let him go. Who picked him up? Whizz & Grimm?? It really surprised me that NY let him go. I think he went to the ProBowl 2 times in the 3 years he was with them.
too cheap
or they decided to pay someone else.
Or they didn’t want a malcontent ginger lineman on the team
by Steely McSmash on Jul 2, 2010 7:22 PM EDT up reply actions
Steelers OL
It doesn’t matter who you stick in there at RT, we have no quality OL. Our new center/RG project Pouncey is the only stud we’ve drafted in many many years. This OL stunk 5 years ago. It stunk 4, 3, 2, and stunk last year. Tomlin promised many changes since he’s taken over, but all we seem to get is 2nd n 3rd rated players, or the undrafted hero we sometimes get. Starks is now where near the level of play his pay check says. Starks is a waste of money, every tackle on the teams flat out is weak. Colon has not played well at RT, and should have moved to guard, but instead he’s one of the reasons outside rushers love playing against us. Starks is horrible at pass or run blocking, colon can run block, but can’t seem to block a fly pass wise. Fire them all and bring in a whole new bunch, cause it won’t make a difference. This OL stinks, and we will not be able to run behind it. Ben had better plan on another wam bam thank you man season as he gets knocked out again and again threw out the season. We’re gonna find out if losing Holmes really hurts when Ben finally plays and needs a go to guy. I hope our D comes back to #1 cause if it don’t, our O is not going to score at will. Colbert and Tomlin’s failure is showing strong, the OL and DL lacks the proper attention they should have gotten. The game is played at the LOS, win it and win the game, that plain and simple. Noll new it and lived by it, Cowher learned it, and Tomlin hasn’t a clue. Here we go Steelers here we go….
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