With the 24th Overall Pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers Select... A Wide Receiver
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 9:31 AM EST
in 2012 Steelers Draft
Email
Print
This is the first in a collaborative effort from the editorial staff at BTSC, providing some arguments behind possible positional directions the Steelers may go with their first round pick - currently scheduled for the 24th overall. These will be posted each day this week, and will not be distributed based on order of preference.
Wouldn't it be strange if Chipotle started heavily marketing and selling hamburgers?
Their famous burritos have people standing in lines of 20 deep - sometimes even out the door - just to get one around lunch time. Granted, their fajita bowls may bring in a person or two as well, but their customer base is because of the burritos.
Will there be more people lining up because Chipotle theoretically serves hamburgers? It would seem strange, but perhaps one or two more may join the throngs waiting for that carnitas and pinto bean sensation. If they have the marketing dollars available and wish to move in a direction to increase their customer base, it would make more sense to simply market their money maker, the burrito.
Regardless of what else is being sold, the burrito is the best food item available.
A wide receiver is likely to be the best player available (BPA) when the Steelers go on the clock with the 24th pick in the 2012 NFL Draft.
Should it matter they already have talented players at the position? Football is all about match-ups, and one significant positional match-up game-in and game-out can be the difference between 12-4 and 8-8.
It used to be a game in which a team was only as good as its weakest link. The New England Patriots came one bad ankle (TE Rob Gronkowski) from winning a Super Bowl with an average offensive line, a below average defense (in terms of tackling) and castoffs at running back. They were able to have that level of success because they have elite players at other positions: even though QB Tom Brady couldn't throw to Gronkowski, he could still throw to TE Aaron Hernandez.
The Patriots took two tight ends in 2010 (Gronkowsi in the second round, Hernandez in the fourth). If the Patriots didn't apply a BPA strategy, it could be argued they would not have had as much success in 2011.
The Steelers have three talented receivers, but that's just it - they only have three receivers who can definitively say they'll be on the roster after March 13. The tea leaves don't strongly indicate that Hines Ward will be back, and while Ward's departure suggests an extension for Jerricho Cotchery, he could leave in free agency as well.
Those issues will be cleared up before the draft, but not before the Scouting Combine (which begins Feb. 22 in Indianapolis). Being in such a tenuous situation at such a valuable position will not escape the Steelers' attention.
Early projections indicate that the wide receiver position is deep, but without multiple top 10 prospects. Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon is a lock for the top five. After him, there is potential 1st-round talent in Notre Dame's Michael Floyd, South Carolina's Alshon Jeffery and Baylor's Kendall Wright. Moreover, both Floyd and Jeffery possess something the current Steelers receivers simply don't have.
Size.
All three of those prospects could be on the board when the Steelers pick at 24. All three - repeat, all three - of the Steelers receivers who are currently under contract - Mike Wallace, Antonio Brown and Emmanuel Sanders - are listed at 6-foot or shorter. And none of them weigh more than 200 pounds.
What's easier: finding five All-Pro linemen, or adjusting your passing strategy to include more short releases?
No one was talking about Giants LT David Diehl's level of play the day after the Super Bowl. They were talking about the catch made by WR Mario Manningham - the team's distant third receiving option - and the drop by WR Wes Welker.
New offensive coordinator Todd Haley had big, strong receivers in both Arizona (Larry Fitzgerald) and Kansas City (Dwayne Bowe). While the success of those two has varied a bit due to their individual talent and their particular quarterback situations, it's tough to argue that physical receivers would not have a place in Haley's offense.
It's also important to acknowledge the fact that the rest of the league isn't blind. They noticed defenses struggling to keep Wallace in front of them in the first half of the season, and the level of talent that Brown showed in the second half. Wallace is a restricted free agent this year and barring an extension, will be on the open market in 2013 (unless the Steelers slap the franchise tag on him). Tagging him would likely be about $10 million, maybe more, against the cap. Both Brown and Sanders are RFAs in 2013, and eligible for free agency in 2014.
They can use the tag on Wallace next year and probably Brown in 2014, but the salary cap jail the Steelers would find themselves in would be more despondent than being imprisoned at Guantanamo Bay.
It all comes back to value though: the second and third best receivers in this draft are talented players for sure, but they aren't likely to go higher than picks 19-25. It's awfully tempting to grab a 6-foot-4 receiver with 4.5 speed and good hands, if for no other reason than provide a reliable shorter target. We don't know how much longer the Young Money Crew will be around, but we know they need a big target now.
292 comments
|
Add comment
|
0 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
this worked so well for the lions a few years back
I think we should try it.
by hasay on Feb 13, 2012 9:38 AM EST via mobile reply actions
I’ll give ya Mike Williams…but no one bashed Detroit for drafting Charles Rogers, Roy Williams or certainly not Calvin Johnson.
Talent certainly wasn’t the problem with Williams or Rogers.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 9:58 AM EST up reply actions
Homer hears Limas Sweed is available.
I would kill everyone in this room for a drop of sweet beer.
- Homer J. Simpson
you guys will pick
a back before you pick a wr
by riverhorse_2000 on Feb 13, 2012 11:32 PM EST up reply actions
At first my reaction was going to be...
…what are you guys eating at lunch over at BTSC..."special" mushrooms???
…but as I read through again, your logic (twisted as it seemed) began to make sense. A high WR pick would surely be a logical ingrediant if the pantry was missing a Ward and Cotchery; considering the spiciness just added by mixing in the new OC, and I believe you might have hit upon the Steelers’ 2012 recipie for success.
This would also lessen the bitter aftertaste of the Arians-less QB, with this new recipie calling for a key ingrediant the aforementioned QB has been wishing for.
(see what I did there with the Chipotle theme?)
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
Yes, I noticed...
Strangely, I’m hungry, but not for Chipotle.
To be fair, I didn’t speculate on how Haley’s direction for the offense could solve some red zone problems on its own, but the fact is they don’t have size at a position that can be improved by size. That doesn’t mean our guys aren’t any good, it’s just having a 6-foot-4 Antonio Brown would be pretty nice.
People will disagree with this, and I can understand why, but 1. they absolutely will not leave that draft without taking a receiver who can play next year at the latest, and 2. following a BPA strategy, that position is the most likely to have the BPA when we’re on the clock.
I can see perhaps someone reaching for Floyd, but probably not Jeffery. While Wright is smallish, he’s extremely talented. We’d get a very good player, in my opinion.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 10:04 AM EST up reply actions
I just dont see it...
especially since we’ve had so much recent success with late round WRs. I could see us spending a 3rd rounder, but not a 1st.
I’ve been wrong before. If the Steelers do spend a high draft pick on a WR, I imagine Hines will remain for another year to help in the development. I don’t think Ward gets enough credit for the work he does with young talent. It’s no accident that Wallace, Brown, Sanders, Holmes, Burris, and others have become top receivers in the game…I hope he gets another year to show it.
Let’s look at versatile OL or DL early and fill other needs late
We've got heads on sticks...
by Kid-A on Feb 13, 2012 2:58 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
In that case (and I agree completely) Hines should be encouraged to retire and return as a WR coach.
"Kompromise, my friend, is the essence of diplomacy, and diplomacy is the kornerstone of love... sweeeeeet looooOOOve"
by CheekyMonkey on Feb 13, 2012 7:13 PM EST up reply actions
it all depends...
If a WR really is the BPA when we draft than I guess it’s not a bad idea. Having some height would be awesome. But, and this is big but, our true need in for more talented and young (i.e. healthy) O-line players. As Momma Rollet’s (I think) car analogy made plain, the OL is the engine of the offence and adding some awesome rims, as sweet as that would be, isn’t going to help the as much as a new engine block.
"Kompromise, my friend, is the essence of diplomacy, and diplomacy is the kornerstone of love... sweeeeeet looooOOOve"
by CheekyMonkey on Feb 13, 2012 11:36 AM EST up reply actions
+330 lbs
http://tr4f.wordpress.com
Mountainbiking the Continental Divide in 2012 to raise awareness of human trafficking.
by Fifty-Eight on Feb 13, 2012 1:53 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
No thank you on WR in the 1st
They do need size and depth at WR, but those needs pale in comparison to needs at other positions. Their biggest needs are ILB, LG and NT. They do not need a superstar WR. They just need to add a 6-3" to 6-5" guy with decent speed and good hands. I hope they keep either Hines or Cotchery as the #4 WR, so anyone they bring in at WR would likely be no higher than #5 on the depth chart, and would be unlikely to contribute significantly for a year or two.
At ILB, they probably won’t be able to keep both Farrior and Foote, and they need to find Farrior’s long-term replacement sooner rather than later. I do not believe that Farrior’s heir apparent is on the roster at present. That is why they should consider a guy lke ILB Dont’a Hightower from Alabama. He is big, strong and athletic, and is a big-hitter. He also called the plays for the Tide’s defense. He could be the perfect long-term replacement for Farrior. I am hoping for Hightower.
The Steelers obviously need an upgrade at LG. Kemo is probably gone and stinks anyway. Legursky is a solid backup but not much more than that. A guy like Cordy Glenn from Georgia might work, also some might question whether he is a good fit in a zone-blocking scheme. If David DeCastro somehow falls into the low teens, the Steelers should seriously consider trading up for him.
At NT, Casey’s age and knee injury make him a question mark. They need to find his long-term replacement sooner rather than later. McClendon is decent, but they need to find someone better for the long-term. Dontari Poe is probably the only NT they should consider in the 1st, but I am not sold on him at this point.
Other possiblilites in the 1st might be OT or S, but I hope they wait on those positions.
They do not need a superstar WR.
Didn’t say he’d be a superstar, but you’re right, too many of those is a bad thing. Imagine if the Packers had less talent at that position. They would have gone undefeated.
The only reason anyone is mentioning Poe is because he was Kiper’s guy at 24. I don’t see him any higher than 28 in a few places, and others have him in the second. He’s raw. He only declared because it’s such a weak DT class after the top two.
Decastro will fall into the low-teens, but we don’t have the scratch to get up that high. Keep in mind, there are lots of players who could help this team right away, but the point of this is to weigh the likelihood of availability along with our needs. WR is likely to have the BPA when we’re on the clock. I don’t think that would be a bad move, if that’s the case.
I’d much rather have a guy who’s the 24th best player in the draft (therefore, the best player we could draft) than the 41st best player whom we only took because he played a position we need some help at. There are tons of guards who were drafted mid-to-late, and some who weren’t drafted at all, who turned into great players. That’s not a position we need to emphasize a first round selection on, and certainly one you cannot reach on.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 10:31 AM EST up reply actions
Not reaching
I do not think Dont’a Hightower would be reaching at #24. I am not entirely sold on Cordy Glenn or Dontari Poe at #24, and they would probably be better suited as late 1st or 2nd round picks. Also, OG is deep in this draft, so I would not be upset if they passed on Glenn. However, if they like really Glenn or Poe, I would rather that they take one of them a little early at #24, as opposed to adding a WR just because he may be the highest rated player on some people’s boards. They need to pay attention to talent and needs. A strict BPA strategy is not wise. ILB, OG and NT are much bigger needs than WR.
Ms. Rebecca Rollet has ILB
And I will say I’m kind of a huge fan of Hightower. Kinda really hope he lasts until 21, and kinda sorta hope we trade up for him. Kinda hate thinking the Ravens are really targeting this guy and not that chubby idiot Burfict (not Ray Lewis’s heir apparent, if anyone is, it’s Hightower. Far superior of an athlete, far smarter of a player).
Kinda worried I’m right because I have this weird psychic ability when it comes to the Ravens draft picks. They ALWAYS take the guys I want.
You really can’t go all BPA or all Positional Need, it needs to be the right combination of both.
Glenn’s weird…there are lots of people who flat-out don’t like him. Same with that Osemele kid from Iowa State (the 6-foot-6 340 pound behemoth who’s being projected as a guard for some reason).
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 11:11 AM EST up reply actions
Hightower is not very mobile at all
Not a better prospect than his college buddy Rolando McClain. Can’t afford to waste a 1st rounder on an oversized LB that cant cover a lot of ground. He is good between the tackles, but we need him to be a 3-down guy.
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Feb 13, 2012 11:56 AM EST up reply actions
Mobile as Farrior now
Not Farrior a couple of years ago.
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Feb 13, 2012 1:20 PM EST up reply actions
I disagree
Hightower is as mobile as Farrior was in his prime
Nothing in his film shows that
When Farrior was younger he was very mobile and good in coverage, not just in closed quarters. Hightower is good in the box but not good down the field in coverage, unless a RB is just flaring out into the flats.
Show me on film how Hightower is better.
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Feb 13, 2012 1:43 PM EST up reply actions
Let’s keep in mind, we’re not talking about Hightower as a top 10 pick here. No, he doesn’t have McClain speed, or Willis’s, or any elite guy like that. It doesn’t mean you’re a flat-out joke if you can’t cover running backs 30 yards around the field.
How many guys can?
The Steelers use a run defense formation as their base. I don’t mind a two-gap LB who can play downhill (run or pass blitz), lay the wood and never miss his assignments. He’s a leader, he’s a winner and he studies. If I can’t have Patrick Willis, that’s the kind of guy I want.
They can’t all be the best at their position, and it’s not often you’re going to be in a position to draft those kinds of guys 24th overall.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:00 PM EST up reply actions
I just dont agree with using that pick on a player that can only really function in the box
You look at Tomlin’s 1st round picks since he’s been the HC; all of them are pretty athletic and carry a lot of upside. I think Hightower is about as good as he is going to get; a thumper who is pretty damn good in closed quarters but might get exposed in space.
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Feb 14, 2012 1:26 AM EST up reply actions
Not a better prospect than his college buddy Rolando McClain.
McClain was the 8th overall pick. I’m not talking about the attributes of the 8th overall pick.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:07 PM EST up reply actions
Far superior of an athlete
Huh?
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 1:26 PM EST up reply actions
I think he meant Hightower > Burfict
http://tr4f.wordpress.com
Mountainbiking the Continental Divide in 2012 to raise awareness of human trafficking.
by Fifty-Eight on Feb 13, 2012 1:58 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Right
Burfict is a better athlete. He’s just not a smart player.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 2:02 PM EST up reply actions
You can have him. I’ll take the smart winner who doesn’t have a rep for taking plays off
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:07 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t own a football team, I was just refuting the incorrect comment that Hightower is a “far superior” athlete.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 2:09 PM EST up reply actions
I love how opinions other than yours are “incorrect” statements.
I’m not sure how one word questions like “huh?” refute anything, but as usual, John, whatever makes you more comfortable…
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:18 PM EST up reply actions
It’s not an opinion. Burfict is faster and quicker. Anyone watching their game tape can deduce that. As usual, you’re just making something up to help your point.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 2:20 PM EST up reply actions
Whatever you say, John. Not in the mood for a battle of who can be more smug. You win again.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:25 PM EST up reply actions
I’m not being smug. I watched game tape and your statement is false. If a guy is slower and not as quick, he’s not as athletic. Did you watch game tape on both of them?
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 2:31 PM EST up reply actions
I think Burfict is a better athlete but....
he’s going to fall. he had a horrible yr this yr. I watched every ASU game. he wasn’t even relevant. The flag issue messed with his head. he didn’t know when to hit, when to fill….it was really sad. He has more talent but is much more of a risk than Hightower
I don’t disagree with that at all. Sometimes great athlete doesn’t always equate to great football player. Burfict might be a good example and Sweed is an even better one.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 2:38 PM EST up reply actions
I think he will make it in the NFL with the right coaching/teaching
Someone has to get into his head and Erickson wasn’t the guy for that. Maybe Ray Ray is…..
Certainly can teach him a thing or two about knives
Funny
Erickson seemingly can keep Ray Ray under control at the U (remember how it was back then?), but can’t keep Burfict under control at ASU.
I think that says something about Burfict…
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Feb 14, 2012 1:29 AM EST up reply actions
Ok, thank you
I didn’t see anything beyond this past season. I thought he looked pretty average in the times I saw him this year. I’ve watched a lot more of Hightower, and thought he looked pretty good.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:41 PM EST up reply actions
That bad of a year, huh?
He just looked kind of bored to me. Moves well, just wasn’t really aggressive.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:51 PM EST up reply actions
yea that bad
his junior year he was flying everywhere, my ideal draft is him fallin to the 3rd round and we pick him up and coach him up.
While in the 1st round we out Adams and 2nd round we get Ta’amu.
I love the Steelers.
by tannofsteel84 on Feb 13, 2012 3:10 PM EST up reply actions
I admit I haven’t seen much on Burfict. Hightower looks plenty athletic to me, though, and if Burfict is head and shoulders above Hightower as you guys are suggesting, he would have had to rob an NFL coach’s wife at gunpoint to fall that far.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:40 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t think he’ll drop out of the second, but I’m not sure if a team will give him the money of a first rounder.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 2:42 PM EST up reply actions
How about this, then
Would/should the Steelers have any interest in him? I mean, outside of the fact Hall of Fame member Dick Lebeau is obviously less qualified to teach a talented kid how to play linebacker…why is he a perfect fit for the Ravens and no one’s throwing his name out for the Steelers?
(legit question, not being confrontational)
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:56 PM EST up reply actions
I have no idea. I think since the Ravens have less needs they can dare to take a risk. Also, it seems like since Jimmy Smith went 1 year without screwing up that somehow they can magically turn any problem child straight.
I think the Steelers should show interest if he is there in the 2nd and they didn’t take an ILB in the first.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 3:10 PM EST up reply actions
I think its because they have ray lewis
and people think he can fix any young trouble black athlete.
I love the Steelers.
by tannofsteel84 on Feb 13, 2012 3:11 PM EST up reply actions
“We can cut you, Vontaze, or Ray can cut you. One option will be both expensive and painful for you. You can guess which is which.”
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 4:36 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
please, somebody, green this
I pledge allegiance to the Terrible Towel and the only team in America, and to the franchise for which it stands, one nation under Rooney, indivisible, with the ability to crush you all.
"He was popping off down there the first time they were about to score. So you run your mouth, expect to get something. Everything's between the lines, so he got what he had coming. He was running his mouth and getting in the way of the train, and the train wasn't coming off the track."
-James Harrison on Kyle Orton
if a WR is taken in the 1st round
then he’d better be a super star. Anything short of that is a waste considering our recent track record of picking them up in the 3rd or later.
I’m sure that a 1st round grade at a position of greater need will fall within reach. It happens every year when players the experts predict will be 2nd rounders suddenly hop up the board because of their combine results. If the value isn’t there then trade back and get another pick, but I’d hope we wouldn’t use our 1st round choice on arguably the strongest position on the team.
As said elsewhere
I agree on the allure of drafting Jeffrey, but I do not think the comparison to Green Bay is apt, given that they had some separation between obtaining their WRs and, therefore, seeing their contracts expire, but I thought I would look:
Donald Driver: 1999 7th rounder
Greg Jennings: 2006 2nd rounder
James Jones: 2007 3rd rounder
Jordy Nelson: 2008 2nd rounder
Jermichael Finley: 2008 3rd rounder
Randall Cobb: 2011 2nd rounder
On a similar schedule, you could imagine the Steelers taking a WR this year, though it seems that what works for the Packers is to never invest a 1st rounder. Cobb most likely replaces Jones, so that they then have three stud WRs and the old head in Driver. However, that means that the Steelers would be drafting a guy like Jeffrey in order to replace a guy (i.e. Sanders) that would be cycled out in a couple years.
"It's football the way it's meant to be played. That's who Pittsburgh is, and that's who Pittsburgh has always been."
-- so says Rex Ryan.
True
I wasn’t speaking specifically to where the Packers receivers were drafted, just that they had a lot of very talented receivers.
Valid point though. If we can draft Nelson in the second round, I’d be fine with that.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 10:56 AM EST up reply actions
Now I agree completely in one respect
If you were looking at our WRs as a portfolio, imagining how best to bundle them: would you want a speed, deep threat (Wallace); a shifty, do-it-all guy (Brown); and a technician/ route-runner (Sanders), all around 6 feet, or would you look to exchange one of those assets to a bigger, possession receiver and threat in the end zone.
Given the amount of money that is soon to be spent, and the fact the Wallace, Brown, and Sanders were almost drafted too close to one another (probably not expecting them to all pan out), I wonder if we do not draft a WR this year, and then look to trade Wallace, as he seems to not fit the dynamic of the other WRs.
"It's football the way it's meant to be played. That's who Pittsburgh is, and that's who Pittsburgh has always been."
-- so says Rex Ryan.
Wallace
I actually agree about trading Wallace, but if anything pushes Ben over the edge it would be getting rid of his favorite target and one of the best big play guys in the league. It will be interesting to see how Haley runs the offense and if Wallace retains his value.
"Kompromise, my friend, is the essence of diplomacy, and diplomacy is the kornerstone of love... sweeeeeet looooOOOve"
by CheekyMonkey on Feb 13, 2012 11:45 AM EST up reply actions
Part of the reason I think he might be traded
is because I do not think he is Ben’s favorite target. I think the fact that Ben seemed to force the ball to Brown, while Wallace seemed to disappear down the stretch signals a closer relationship with Brown.
"It's football the way it's meant to be played. That's who Pittsburgh is, and that's who Pittsburgh has always been."
-- so says Rex Ryan.
You could be right. It will all come down to how Haley runs the offence. Wallace and the deep ball may not be as important in the future. While Wallace is very talented and unbelievably fast, I think Brown is more versatile of the two and should excel in any system. Wallace also would likely have more value on the open market.
"Kompromise, my friend, is the essence of diplomacy, and diplomacy is the kornerstone of love... sweeeeeet looooOOOve"
by CheekyMonkey on Feb 13, 2012 1:02 PM EST up reply actions
I think some of the disappearance of Wallace
was his own doing. He almost seemed to get very pouty when Brown started emerging. Wallace did not seem to put forth the same effort he did at the start of the year. If the ball was not thrown right to him, it was almost like he felt he was too good to make the necessary adjustment/effort at times to catch the ball, or become a defender and prevent an INT.
Things can always be worse....
I agree
It seemed to me that Wallace got real tentative the last 4-5 games of the year and was gun shy coming across the middle.
Maybe he always was. It will be interesting to see how Haley tries to mold this group and utilize their talents.
That said I hope Wallce is here for a long while. Plus if he can run crossing routes he takes his game up a notch. You just have to get the ball in his hands and let his speed take over. Arians did not get him isolated in space enough.
Will things change if
the O-line is better and Ben has time to throw the deep routes?
"you will hardly know who I am or what I mean"-Walt Whitman
by Pittsblitz56 on Feb 13, 2012 3:31 PM EST up reply actions
maybe
I think the reliance on deep routs is a result of the offensive system that any innate talent on the OL. Some teams emphasize the big play some don’t so I think Haley’s offensive system will matter as much as the players.
"Kompromise, my friend, is the essence of diplomacy, and diplomacy is the kornerstone of love... sweeeeeet looooOOOve"
by CheekyMonkey on Feb 13, 2012 7:19 PM EST up reply actions
Not to mention
If BPA is likely to be a WR at #24 because of the depth at the position, then might the value not also be there in the 2nd and 3rd round? It just seems interesting that the two teams you seem to highlight (Packers or Giants) for having depth at WR tend to get those guys in the 2nd and 3rd rounds, and even then near the tail end of those round. Quite similar to the Steelers, and an efficient way to keep contract length and money down, and then replace one guy with another after 3-4 years. (Of course Hakeem Nicks was a first rounder at #29)
"It's football the way it's meant to be played. That's who Pittsburgh is, and that's who Pittsburgh has always been."
-- so says Rex Ryan.
by sctx109 on Feb 13, 2012 10:54 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Also true...
Nicks fell a bit further than I think he should have gone.
You’re making good points though. The hope with this series is just to stimulate discussion. I won’t say whether WR would be what I would target if I were in charge, but I will say I selected fifth out of five writers when we chose up positions…
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 10:57 AM EST up reply actions
Fair enough
"It's football the way it's meant to be played. That's who Pittsburgh is, and that's who Pittsburgh has always been."
-- so says Rex Ryan.
I rather have...
the guy who is 15th or 16th best in the draft but fell to the Steelers because other teams were drafting need over quality in the 1st round. If that is a WR who will fit in our system then we should get him. Taking the BPA in the first is a smart tactic that pays off in the long run. Drafting for need later in the draft is less risky.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 11:35 AM EST up reply actions
+1
That’s where I’m coming from.
We should be more excited about the Steelers’ cornerbacks this coming season than we perhaps ever have been, because they stockpiled mid-round picks and developed them. They’re all big and athletic, and now that they’ve been with the team for a few years, they know what they’re doing. That’s more important than talent, in my opinion. Not everyone’s gonna be a complete freak, but they play so much faster if they know what they’re doing.
Get a talented guy in the spot he should be drafted in, plan to develop him, keep him out of the fire unless he needs to go in (Heyward, Gilbert) so when he takes over, he’s mentally ready.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:59 PM EST up reply actions
Having said that
I am still hoping the BPA when we draft is an o-lineman but I do think Colbert’s strength has been taking the best guy we could possibly use.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 3:48 PM EST up reply actions
if we are arguing counterfactuals
Didn’t say he’d be a superstar, but you’re right, too many of those is a bad thing. Imagine if the Packers had less talent at that position. They would have gone undefeated.
Actually I think they might have done better. It might have forced them to address their problems at RB and actually give their defense a reason to show up.
"Kompromise, my friend, is the essence of diplomacy, and diplomacy is the kornerstone of love... sweeeeeet looooOOOve"
by CheekyMonkey on Feb 13, 2012 11:40 AM EST up reply actions
Soooo….the defending champs should have purposefully not played to their strengths, and instead, run more, so they scored less points, thus forcing their defense to win games for them.
Seems kind of like a risky strategy.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 1:54 PM EST up reply actions
not exactly...
I just think becoming one dimensional hurt them. The awesome play of Rogers and his receivers paper over the teams serious offensive and defensive flaws. Going back to the point you were making, I think having too much of a good thing can be a problem sometimes. Particularly in the NFL where it most likely means a weakness some place else.
"Kompromise, my friend, is the essence of diplomacy, and diplomacy is the kornerstone of love... sweeeeeet looooOOOve"
by CheekyMonkey on Feb 13, 2012 7:26 PM EST up reply actions
well.......with that theory, they might as well draft a QB at 24
if that is the best player at 24. No need in getting the NT, ILB or G we need in the first round
QB, K and P
I think this post and most of our draft posts have used the theory that we will not draft a QB, K or P (and probably not a RB) even if they are BPA in the first merely because the value wouldn’t be there. We can’t use a second starting QB but we may be down to 3 WRs and we will need 4 or 5. If we needed a starting QB or RB then they would probably be in the mix.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 3:53 PM EST up reply actions
we are down too one starting NT, and until Hampton is completely healthy
which may not even happen, I think you have to go with NT. There are plenty of receivers on the roster right now, 9 to be exact. There is one starting true NT right now who is on IR for a long time, and, again, we dont know how well a 350 NT at 35 is going to recover.
We can sit here until the beginning of the season and “grade” who “we” think is a first rounder, a second rounder, and on and on. But the truth is, until they actually play in the nfl for a couple seasons, that is when you can grade them as to what round they should of been drafted in. Examples; Ward, drafted in the third and has proven he should of been a first rounder. Antonio Brown, drafted in the sixth round and is proving at least a second, if not a first, etc. etc. player after player.
I don't disagree that we need a NT
I just don’t know if they will take one in the first three rounds if it is considered a reach.
I also will not be surprised if the defence is tweaked if they can’t draft or sign a decent NT at a price the team can afford. I don’t know what that tweak will look like but I expect they will make things work someway or another.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 8:38 PM EST up reply actions
Didn’t say he’d be a superstar, but you’re right, too many of those is a bad thing. Imagine if the Packers had less talent at that position. They would have gone undefeated.
If the Packers would have spread some of that talent into the defense or OL they would have won the superbowl instead of going one and done.
"I believe the game is designed to reward the ones who hit the hardest. If you can't take it, you shouldn't play." ~Jack Lambert.
"Superman ain't got nothing on me, ... Kryptonite? C'mon now. It's just that you're never going to hear me say that somebody is tougher than me, ... Because I don't believe somebody else could be tougher than me." ~James Harrison
by H-burgSTEELfanatic on Feb 14, 2012 10:47 AM EST up reply actions
I'd love a big wide receiver
He needs to be over 6’3" and weigh over 300. He needs to be mobile, strong and good with his hands. I’d prefer he play outside, but inside is a good second option, especially considering their draft position. I hope he catches no passes in his 15 year career and serves as an anchor to the offense. His success will keep Ben healthy, will allow Mendenhall to make first contact beyond the line of scrimmage and will make Mike, Antonio and Manny 1000 yard receivers.
Yes I want a wide receiver, make him huge and at least one more like him for both the offense and defense.
Say it with me: 1000 pounds in the first three rounds.
Well aren't you just the cleverest...
The level of ability at G or T will be far less at 24 than the receivers that will be there.
You absolutely CANNOT draft positional need if the player does not fit the spot you’re drafting.
If Joe Guard is available at 24, and he’s not the best player who’s there, you cannot draft him.
They take positions off the names, and ask “is he worthy of this pick?” If not, they’ll see what happens in the next round, and outside of a few positions (WR isn’t one of them this year) where they will not spend a first round pick (QB, K, P obviously, RB), see which guys can validate that draft spot, then look at positional need.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 10:22 AM EST up reply actions
If we don’t get a talented and cohesive offensive line, we’re going to get Ben maimed, killed or worse.
Our WR corp is fast, young, explosive and relatively stable. I would consider a big talented WR a luxury that we cannot afford. And if the BPA is a stud WR we’d be better served trading out of the pick.
A solid and effective offensive line will make the whole team better. A big WR won’t mean anything if Ben continues to find himself eating turf on 1/3 of his dropbacks.
I want my 1000 pounds and I want them in the first three rounds.
Arians and Ben almost got Ben killed
Arians had the perfect blue print in the NE game for Ben. Three step drop and quick passes. Granted that will not work against every team in the league. However, it will slow down a pass rush.
As we moved past that game the quick passing game was used less and less. Then after Bens ankle injury I thought they would use it more. As it would slow down the rush, and get the ball out of his hand quicker when he could not move and it never happened.
Also, no one mentions that this year Ben was sacked on something like 7.2% of his drop backs which is the lowest of his career.
7.2%
I don’t know if I had seen that number before.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 3:54 PM EST up reply actions
The Steelers NEVER go away from areas of greatest need
in this fashion. Drafting at perhaps the strongest position on the team in the 1st round will not happen. Too many other needs for a luxury pick at WR (O-line and D-line).
The Steelers always draft at a position of high need in the 1st rd. and they do it very successfully nearly always getting a player who is a good value pick as well. They will do so again this year.
Wasn’t tackle our greatest position of need last year? DL was one of them, but the consensus was tackle. Cornerback was up there as well.
Saying the Steelers “draft a position of high need” is ambiguous, especially considering this is the same team that rarely gives a rookie significant snaps (barring injuries and outside of WRs).
They take a combination of the worthiness of that spot, and a position of need. You can’t say WR is our strongest position, when there are only four on the roster right now, and one’s about to get released. The other three hit free agency in two years or less.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 10:38 AM EST up reply actions
Disagree
Nobody said RB was the area of greatest need when Mendy was drafted. I read quote a couple years ago by someone in the FO (maybe Colbert) who said that the Steelers fill holes through FA signings and build talent through the draft. If WR is by far the BPA at 24, that is who they will take. WR is also not such a huge strength on this team going forward. Sanders is pushing 30 already (IIRC, he as 25 when drafted). Ward and Cotchery may be gone.
by WolfpackSteelersFan on Feb 13, 2012 10:45 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Thanks
Thought he was older for some reason.
by WolfpackSteelersFan on Feb 13, 2012 12:52 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I would argue that RB was a pretty big need going into that draft
Fast Willie broke his ankle against St. Louis and we had to rely on Davenport and maybe Moore(?) to carry us, which obviously didn’t work. Plus, Willie had one more year on his deal and was pretty much a one-trick pony to begin with, so when Mendy dropped to us it only made sense to pick him.
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Feb 13, 2012 12:05 PM EST up reply actions
It turned out to be
But I don’t recall anyone mocking a RB to the Steelers before that draft. Everything I read at the time projected OL in the first round of that draft (and 09).
by WolfpackSteelersFan on Feb 13, 2012 12:58 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I think this situation is different
Mendy is very young and isn’t a one trick pony. Plus there are backs on the team that can help while mendy is coming back. We had no one else on the roster when Parker went down.
I love the Steelers.
by tannofsteel84 on Feb 13, 2012 2:14 PM EST up reply actions
yes, good points
But, do you remember anyone at all saying the Steelers would take a RB in that draft? I don’t. I know Mendy was expected to be a top 15 pick…
by WolfpackSteelersFan on Feb 13, 2012 3:04 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
No
it was completely blind sided. but I like to forget that draft because of the 2nd round.
I love the Steelers.
by tannofsteel84 on Feb 13, 2012 3:13 PM EST up reply actions
If Floyd or Jeffery fall I wouldn't be entirely opposed to it
Better than reaching for a guard prospect or taking headcase Burfict.
Glory is fleeting, but obscurity is forever
-Napoleon Bonaparte
There’s a lot of stuff we wouldn’t have to clean up if the city provided basic human rights, like a Port-A-Potty.
-OWS Protester
Cornell University Class of 2014
by LV Steelers Fan on Feb 13, 2012 10:26 AM EST reply actions
Interesting idea but...
Definitely a fresh take on the drafting situation considering the situation at hand. With the possibility of Ward leaving and the contract situation of Wallace and Brown (I think Wallace will be given a new deal this offseason) it would not be a bad idea to take a WR, Just not in the first round. There are too many pressing needs to spend that pick on a luxury WR. I would rather trade out of the first and make a big haul on day two with extra picks that could be used on a WR there ie. Tommy Streeter out of the U! 6’5" 215 and runs a 4.4, now theres some size and speed for you at a bargain
by ShamrockSteeler on Feb 13, 2012 10:39 AM EST reply actions
Fair points
As for Mr. Streeter…I’ll be honest, I haven’t heard his name, but I do know if there’s a 6-foot-5, 215 pound guy who plays wide receiver for a Division I school, and he’s been timed at 4.4, if I haven’t heard of him by now, he’s either a bonafide criminal who’s facing jail time, has a severe drug and alcohol addiction or he cannot walk and chew gum at the same time. A combination of all three is probably more likely.
Even then, he’d probably be worthy of a 4th round pick.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 10:45 AM EST up reply actions
Kind of another Jimmy Graham situation, less that 50 receiving yards in 2010 then blew up last year with over 800 yards and 8 TD’s averaging around 18 YPC
by ShamrockSteeler on Feb 13, 2012 10:48 AM EST up reply actions
and this is why I go through the comments on this site. Gems like this:
if I haven’t heard of him by now, he’s either a bonafide criminal who’s facing jail time, has a severe drug and alcohol addiction or he cannot walk and chew gum at the same time. A combination of all three is probably more likely.
You shouldn't make assumptions like that
His background is kinda squeaky clean.
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Feb 14, 2012 11:09 AM EST up reply actions
Yea not a good look neal
you gotta do some research before you make comments like that.
I love the Steelers.
by tannofsteel84 on Feb 14, 2012 12:26 PM EST up reply actions
He isn't getting enough vitamin D
;-)
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 14, 2012 12:42 PM EST up reply actions
I'm with you on trade down
Vikings, Rams and Redskins have needs at WR. May look to trade back into the 1st if the above mentioned WR fall.
"you will hardly know who I am or what I mean"-Walt Whitman
by Pittsblitz56 on Feb 13, 2012 3:42 PM EST up reply actions
Redskins maybe
"you will hardly know who I am or what I mean"-Walt Whitman
by Pittsblitz56 on Feb 14, 2012 7:15 PM EST up reply actions
I'd take a look at him
in the 5th round depending on how the draft goes.
I love the Steelers.
by tannofsteel84 on Feb 14, 2012 12:31 PM EST up reply actions
Here's Something to Consider
Who are your top 10 WR’s in the NFL over the last 3 years? Mine are: A Johnson, Fitzgerald, C Johnson, Welker, Bowe, White, Wallace, Smith,Marshall, Holmes.
Make your own list.
Then add up how many Super Bowl rings your top 10 have. Mine have a total of: 1.
That’s how I feel about drafting receivers high.
by jedmiller71 on Feb 13, 2012 10:44 AM EST via mobile reply actions
Interesting…cuz mine are Greg Jennings, Jordy Nelson, Hakeem Nicks, Victor Cruz, Antonio Brown, Mike Wallace, Calvin Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald, Andre Johnson and Roddy White.
I get what you’re saying, but your argument is totally subjective. If you’re saying you don’t need high level receivers to be a dominant team in the league, I disagree completely. If you want to say stats are what define a wide receiver, I disagree completely.
But, you can’t argue with the success the guys on your list have had, and their team’s lack of championships. There’s definitely a balance between the two.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 10:50 AM EST up reply actions
My top 3 WR's would be
Calvin Johnson, Andre Johnson, and Larry Fitzgerald in no particular order. I’d say there’s a drop off between those players and the next tier. Of the top ones, they have 0 rings.
I guess it’s a fun discussion, but unless a true beast just falls to them at WR I can’t see them making the pick. Even if it does happen, I’d give the odds at 60-40 that we’d trade back instead of making the pick.
I guess we’ll see.
It's worth noting too...
AJ, CJ and Fitz were all top five picks. Fitz nearly won one, Johnson’s still a kid but his team’s on the rise and Houston’s my Super Bowl favorite right now.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 11:00 AM EST up reply actions
I’m sure everybody’s top 10 would be different. I guess what I’m trying to say is that if say you gave me $10 million per year to go buy the top player at any position, WR would not be anywhere near the top. I used my top 10 over a period of a few years, not guys like Brown and Cruz, because I wanted to show how I am against committing big dollars to a WR. Those guys were signed for almost nothing, but won’t be cheap for long.
Hey, if I could get a Brown again in round 6, then great. But I personally would not use a first rounder and the money that goes with it on a WR.
by jedmiller71 on Feb 13, 2012 11:06 AM EST via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
Rookies are cheaper now
Rookie pay scale isn’t the same as before, and definitely not the shitty investment it was before.
Good points
Even better question, though…$10 million per year to spend on one position, what would it be?
Let’s remove quarterback, cuz $10 million won’t even buy you Alex Smith (not sure why I’m leaving the Flacco joke on the table, considering I know Malor is here).
I wouldn’t rule out wide receiver, but it would absolutely have to be the RIGHT guy. It’d be based on an individual, which I guess sort of means I wouldn’t give it to that position.
Pass rusher or corner, probably.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 11:25 AM EST up reply actions
Agreed.. Although for the Steelers I would take a Left Tackle before a corner.
by jedmiller71 on Feb 13, 2012 11:35 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Then add up how many Super Bowl rings your top 10 have. Mine have a total of: 1.
That is crazy. Arguably the most dominating position on the field, but so very few rings to show for it.
"Picture Me Rollin"
There’s way more that goes into it than that. The best ones on that list (stats-wise) were elite prospects coming out of college. That means they played on bad teams right away.
Houston’s clearly on the rise, as is Detroit. Arizona was much tougher than their record may suggest (your team and mine can attest to that). Atlanta’s not far off, obviously New England is a competitive team.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 11:04 AM EST up reply actions
The best ones on that list (stats-wise) were elite prospects coming out of college. That means they played on bad teams right away.
Very true. Before Baltimore got Boldin, so many fans were complaining about not having that Andre Johnson or Calvin Johnson WR and why we MUST get one. It was great when Ozzie Newsome answered this question by saying “well those guys usually go in the top 5 to 8 picks, which would mean we would need to have a poor season to get them. So would the fans like to see us go 4-12?”
"Picture Me Rollin"
I think we've all learned that those draft slots need to be used to QBs, OTs, and pass rushers
Guys like Boldin and Ward are still there in the 2nd and 3rd rounds, while the Haloti Ngatas of the world are long gone by then.
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Feb 13, 2012 12:11 PM EST up reply actions
If they are Steelers fans then yes.
If you buy a foreign made product you give money to a person who will not be buying an American made product that you get paid to make. Think about it next time you're at the store.
I would rather they go 8-8
Less chance of those top ten players falling to them.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 1:44 PM EST up reply actions
I would hate to see you guys get yours hands on Floyd or Jeffrey.
They might be busts on other teams, but would dominate with Brown and Wallace around them.
"Picture Me Rollin"
I could see Floyd falling a bit. Character issues…
I was an assistant on a high school team that played in Floyd’s conference (Cretin Derham Hall in St. Paul, alma mater of your Walter Payton Man of the Year Matt Birk). I’ve never seen a high school player in any sport so far ahead of everyone else he played against. To me, the fact the Steelers are likely to be within five spots of him only shows me he hasn’t worked as hard as he could have.
Just an absolute badass too. He’d catch something short, and look for defenders to just hammer and run over. Made a grab along the sideline against us, it took four guys – two of them were linebackers – to shove him out of bounds. He then flipped the ball at our head coach.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 11:22 AM EST up reply actions
Wow, that is pretty incredible. I had a similar story when I got a chance to watch Arrellious Benn play in highschool at Dunbar HS (same HS of Vernon Davis, Vontae Davis, Josh Cribbs and Sam Cassell). I saw Benn get tackled by 5 guys and all of them were laying on top of them after the play. It was literally like something out of a movie, but all of a sudden all 5 defenders just went flying about 3-4 feet in the air at the same time as Benn burst through the pile of scrawny white boys.
I’d love Floyd on the Ravens, but not sure he would fall that far. He had some injury issues as well as an arrest didn’t he?
"Picture Me Rollin"
He got two or three underage drinking citations
Kids are kids, I can see it happening once and wouldn’t hold it against him. It’s the fact it repeatedly happened.
In college, my school had an unofficial city-wide party night the first weekend in May because that was when leases expired and started, so everyone moved into new places. Huge parties all over town all night long. We stayed in our place from one year to the next, but had a party anyway. Probably about 50 people inside, including minors.
These four guys moved in next door to us, and started drinking at like 2 that afternoon. By 7, they were all totally wasted, running around right by the street, etc. I was outside on our patio when a cop car pulls up. Cop gets out, I just smiled, said good evening or something like that. He smiles back, walks up our driveway, across the lawn and into the house next door which had 10 people in it. They all got busted. He didn’t so much as ask me what was going on.
The point is you have to be a freakin’ moron sometimes to get caught drinking under age. To me, that suggests a lack of awareness and common sense, especially if it happens more than once. Hard to invest a lot of cash into a complete bleeping idiot.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 11:48 AM EST up reply actions
The point is you have to be a freakin’ moron sometimes to get caught drinking under age.
Shit, I had 2 citations at UMD at the age of 20. They came within a 4 month period…
"Picture Me Rollin"
smh
Gotta know where to be, and when to get out. I shouldn’t lecture, I was part of a group that hoisted a keg into our 7th floor dorm window with a homemade rope-and-pulley system. No clue how we got away with that…
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 11:51 AM EST up reply actions
On Forbes Ave. there used to be a bar (Alley’s maybe?) that had three different owners, but not all of them were on the title or the lease. They would routinely change ownership when one would get busted for serving minors, keeping the watering hole open and wet for everybody that didn’t pander to frat boys, although I personally had friends that were greeks. They were too cocky and arrogant, but if I remember correctly, Pgh clamped down on fraternities serving booze because one kid died after having swallowed like 20 shots of vodka.
That goes on at most colleges these days
Some people just dont know when to stop.
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Feb 13, 2012 12:14 PM EST up reply actions
people are just looking to consume alcohol and get in somebody’s pants, as opposed to just looking for a generally good time meeting people and letting the two former things just happen
Alcohol makes it easier, which isn't a good thing obviously
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Feb 13, 2012 1:21 PM EST up reply actions
lol
I was buying beer without an id at 15 (drinking age was 21). The drinking age dropped to 18 when I was 16 so I started drinking in bars then. If I was asked for ID I said I had left it in the car and would go out and not come back. Happily that never happened at the local watering hole.
Neil is right though, getting caught drinking under age is foolish (I was a fool at that age even if I never got caught).
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 1:36 PM EST up reply actions
True
Some seemed to do a more thorough job of it than others and a few never leave the role behind.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 3:56 PM EST up reply actions
big receiver is do want. we can get a og in the second. wr, og, og, og, og, og, og, og would be a great draft imo. maybe some ots too
lol
Draft an entirely new offensive line…sort of like turning in all five cards in five card draw poker.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 11:12 AM EST up reply actions
I suggested that in another thread. There are only two on the O line I like : Pouncey and GIlbert, but I like Legs because he’s versitile and an adequate back up for almost every position. I’d see what Foster does in camp.
I’d get rid of Colon, Essex, Kemo, Scott, Starkes, easy. Anybody new can’t be as bad as they were last year, and they would be the future. Somehow you need to learn how to play well without incurring injuries – but what the hell do I know.
i've been eating bran all year
hoping this will result in a healthy colon…
i’ll be here all week. try the veal.
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Feb 13, 2012 1:23 PM EST up reply actions
I could go for Jeffery
Taking his size would be a huge advantage. The biggest knock on him is his speed, which wouldn’t matter because we have Wallace and Brown to spread the field. Putting Jeffery & Wallace outside, and sliding Brown into the slot would make us a more complete passing offense, and downright dangerous in the Red Zone.
by Michael Uhlhorn on Feb 13, 2012 11:23 AM EST reply actions
Something To Consider; Chipolte Is Owned By McDonald's
The Steelers will opt for the beef in the early rounds. Who is it at BTSC that keeps singing “1000 pounds in the first 3 rounds!” I like it.
When You Run The Ball Good Things Happen
With a little more weight, he can play LG for us
Pittsburgh Steelers fan - nuff said.
Miami Hurricanes fan - nuff said.
Georgetown Hoyas fan - nuff said.
Cleveland Cavaliers fan - um yeah, about that...
by StoneColdSteel on Feb 13, 2012 12:15 PM EST up reply actions
Not Quite But
http://www.chipotlefan.com/index.php?id=chipotlemcdonalds
Go enjoy a burrito! Support your local Chipolte!
When You Run The Ball Good Things Happen
The link goes to an article written by the general manager...
…of Chipotle.com itself; isn’t a statement disavowing a relationship with the evil McDonald’s just the thing you would expect from a heartless corporate hack interested in spreading dis-information in pursuit of the all mighty corporate dollar?
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
interested in spreading dis-information in pursuit of the all mighty corporate dollar?
You say it like it’s a bad thing. But you know it’s all about that green!
"If you havin' dragon problems I feel bad for you son, I got 99 arrows but my knee took one."
but
at least it should provide some fiber!
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 18, 2012 10:36 AM EST up reply actions
I'm your huckleberry...
I’ve copyrighted the “1000 pounds” phrase. Anyone at BTSC and Malor can use it at a significant discount.
I’m going to use my income to buy a few meals at McDonald’s owned Chipotle… deelish…
Fullback
A big we is great but who out there thinks that a premier fullback would be great with Haley as our oc just a thought
Well thanks a lot
For making me crave chipotle as I toke from my water based tobacco smoking apparatus.
Peru does not have burritos, this is a shame.
I am always against drafting a receiver in the first round, regardless of need or talent. There are plenty of good WRs to be had in lower rounds. Ward and Wallace were 3rd round picks, Brown was a 6th. Terrell Owens was in the 3rd, Welker was undrafted, the list goes on.
First round should either go towards NT, S, or G
Peruvian restuarant
We just had our first Peruvian restaurant open in Winnipeg recently. I haven’t had a chance to get there but the reviews are good.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 1:39 PM EST up reply actions
My suggestions
Tacu Tacu is good, Lomo Saltado is the bomb, Ceviche and chicharron de pescado would be great seafood options. If they have it arroz con mariscos is another good fish dish.
Anticuchos are also awesome if you can find em.
Seriously their food here is really good but I miss that spicy burrito action.
I recognize at least two of those names from the review. Maybe I will leave the kids at home and take my wife out there for supper some day.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 8:39 PM EST up reply actions
Lift yourself up by your bootstraps Mechem...
http://www.tasteofhome.com/Recipes/Steak-Burritos
Here’s a recpie for a steak burrito; make some yourself, start a new craze in Peru, become rich, buy into the Steelers, and become Neal’s “Inside Source” so we know what is really going on!
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
mechem, I wish you could come see the new one I just bought… it’s gorgeous and hits like barry bonds
But does it have an ice catcher? That is a must for me.
"If you havin' dragon problems I feel bad for you son, I got 99 arrows but my knee took one."
My grandfather had one of those
and he really only used tobacco. He also died young of lung cancer.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 3:58 PM EST up reply actions
Damn that sucks. But if he was smoking “something else” he wouldn’t have died so young.
"If you havin' dragon problems I feel bad for you son, I got 99 arrows but my knee took one."
He died before I was born
but I agree with you. If it was an option he probably would have smoked both. He was a bit of a rascal and a layabout when he got older (he loved hanging out in pool halls). Pretty much everyone on my dad’s side of the family died of cancer. My mom’s side is a bit more varied though 3 of my cousins on my mom’s side managed to die of cancer.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 4:08 PM EST up reply actions
My family (on my father’s side) has a history of both cancer and obesity, so I know what you’re talking about. I’ve actually lost track of how many aunts and uncles on my dad’s side that have died of cancer in the last few years. Luckily I take after my mom (whose family is surprisingly healthy), if that even means anything lol
"If you havin' dragon problems I feel bad for you son, I got 99 arrows but my knee took one."
healthy side
Other than my grandmother (congenital heart defect) most people on my mom’s side lived pretty long. My mom will turn 88 this year so she is following the trend.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 4:24 PM EST up reply actions
You almost had me!
I was almost going to say yes!!!
But technically with Ward and Cotchery we have 5 WR’s. Yes the first three are the first three and size might be an issue. But I dont care about size. I need recievers to get open and catch the ball. Rice was not that big but he played big. AB is the real deal and he will be THE guy.
3 recievers vs …only 2 capable olineman….almost had me.
At the end of the day Ben needs to protected in order to throw- even to Ward!
Impose your will.
More of my concern with Ward and Cotchery is that Ward seems destined to be released, and Cotchery is currently a free agent.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 1:38 PM EST up reply actions
Love the write up. I don't see it but, I know you are sparking a good conversation.
I think the Pats Oline is better than average though.
Thanks for noticing…I’m only surprised no one’s asked the question, “if these guys are so good and their position is so valuable, why are they all still on the board at 24?”
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:16 PM EST up reply actions
because the Raiders draft ahead of us
Also BPA when combined with need doesn’t mean the 23 best players will be taken ahead of us because different teams have different needs.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 2:20 PM EST up reply actions
Neal
When my lines are the best you have heard all day it is time to get out and get some exercise. You must be stuck in the house too much.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 3:59 PM EST up reply actions
People die by going outside this time of the year here
It just hasn’t been a funny day, I suppose. It was a good line though.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 4:40 PM EST up reply actions
Minneapolis = lotusland
At least compared to Winnipeg. Haven’t I told you about the guy I met there who emigrated to the twin cities from Winnipeg because he realized there were almost 4 weeks less winter weather every year? A lot fewer mosquitoes as well I might add. You might impress those folks from the coasts or the south but I know better.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 4:46 PM EST up reply actions
Lived in Mpls, and lived smack dab between Mpls and Winnipeg, along with having beent o Winnipeg. They’re all pretty much the same.
I shouldn’t complain, been super mild here, only dropped below zero a few days, but this time of year, you get so completely sick of it…
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 4:52 PM EST up reply actions
Did you go far?
or did you live on the Morehead side of the river?
February sucks, snow or no snow. One of my kids is already asking when CFL starts up again.
Speaking of the CFL, the Bombers have a new stadium that should be ready for next season. It is being built at the University of Manitoba which means the Bisons may have the best field in the CIS next year. The only drawback is the Bombers, like the Jets (Winnipeg) are sold out for next season. Maybe I can talk the kids into going to see the Bisons. There is a chance that some of their teammates from last year might make the team, though they will probably be red-shirted.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 8:44 PM EST up reply actions
I'm with you on Hightower
He looks born to be a MILB for the Steelers. Reminds me of Levon Kirkland
I know, right??
LBs always get dogged on their perceived ability to cover running backs out of the backfield. Players get a lot faster if they know what they are doing, and that kid is going to know what he’s doing.
Good character guy, a leader on a highly successful team, knows how to win and handle it in stride. That’s the kind of guy that makes the mack in this defense.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:44 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t bring this up anymore cuz I usually get yelled at, but I really don’t think Farrior is as bad as people say he is. He doesn’t have teh skill he once did, but he’s still smart and he still leads the defense on the field.
We’re going to miss that.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:49 PM EST up reply actions
I think he still attacks the gaps well, horizontally, he’s off a bit, and he’s had problems in his back peddle for a bit now. I remember two of them that Rodgers dropped over his head in the Super Bowl last year.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 3:02 PM EST up reply actions
Rodgers drops them over everyone's heads
I’m more concerned about Flacco and Seneca Wallace dropping them over his head
Ok would you agree...
that 1 of them (ward or cotchery) stays? if so thats 2 more recievers than starting offensive lineman that we have that I think can contribute- dont forget about RB and TE’s that can still catch the balll. WHo the hell is blocking after Pouncey and Gilbert?. Lets not forget about the Snack!
Impose your will.
The draft is all about the balance
between BPA and positional need and relying upon the draft board. I love the way Green Bay’s GM, like the Steelers, will generally keep his draft picks and take the BPA that comes to him. That said, he will also trade up to get a great player at a position of need, as when he traded up to select Clay Matthews. Hearing the adage in my head that we should “never say never,”the only position I think should never be selected in 1st round is RB. I was pissed when we took Mendy because I think it all starts and end with the OL. In any event, rather than select a WR at 24, I really hope we spend the picks and move up to take DeCastro. I know we have a great many needs, particularly at ILB, NT, S, and maybe TE, but this kid appears to be special and he would fill a gaping hole in our offense. As noted above, I typically think saving our picks and taking BPA is the right way to do business, but we have to be flexible and know when to strike. If Neal is correct, and he usually is, then it looks like WR will be the BPA when we go on the clock. Assuming we release the glorious Hines and sign Cotchery, we are deep at the position and can look for talent in the later rounds with the hope that there will be minimal drop off. Under these circumstances, and keeping in mind the cap issues we’re currently dealing with now, I think the best practice would be to move up and specifically target DeCastro. All reports indicate that he is once-in-ten-years player and he is only rated as a “mid-teen” prospect because his position is not thought of as being worthy of a higher selection. To me, that is non-sense. If we have the chance to move up and take a guy that may be the best OG in the NFL for the next ten years, we need to make it happen.
I'm your huckleberry
In any event, rather than select a WR at 24, I really hope we spend the picks and move up to take DeCastro.
I heard they had their finger on the trigger to pull a deal to move up for Mike Pouncey, but the Dolphins grabbed him higher than they could go. They’re a little closer, and DeCastro is at LEAST as good a prospect as Mike Pouncey. Probably out of reach still, but yeah, he’d be my guy.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 6:21 PM EST up reply actions
Not so fast
It would be nice to draft a WR, but there are too many needs this year. Hokes retirement combined with Hamptons injury and the possibility that they have to release him because of the Cap hit makes adding at least 1 NT capable of contributing immediately the #1 need. Inside linebacker and OL are also major concerns. A young safety and depth for other positions is also important. Unless the Steelers pick up 2 – 3 free agents to fill these needs, i don’t see how they could use their first round pick on a WR.
No one is arguing that the Steelers don't have needs
The question is whether there will be a player with a high, first round draft grade at those positions. If the Steelers are drafting at #24, then they want to make sure that they are getting a top 20 player with their first pick. Teams don’t get better by taking talent in the first round, if they could get similar talent in the second.
by Greig Clawson on Feb 13, 2012 1:45 PM EST up reply actions
Hoke and Hampton retiring have absolutely nothing to do with the spot they’re drafting in, unless the guy available has enough talent/whatever else you want to look at to justify being the 24th overall pick.
That’s the cardinal rule of the draft: Do not select a player unless you are certain his talent level matches that spot. You reach on guys, you get a lot worse.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 1:47 PM EST up reply actions
Just ask
the Bills, Bengals, Browns, Dolphins, and every other NFL bottom feeder.
by Greig Clawson on Feb 13, 2012 1:57 PM EST up reply actions
If I wanted to carry on with this any more, he’s the guy I’d point out. Torrey Holt was a bit of a surprise to the Rams, Boston was already off the board…HAD to have a wide receiver!
Yeah, that worked out well. Or, maybe I’m just making this up, I dunno.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 4:53 PM EST up reply actions
Anyone who watched NC State play
knew that Torrey Holt was on another level.
I love the Steelers.
by tannofsteel84 on Feb 13, 2012 8:41 PM EST up reply actions
he could be a 24th today and a 224th two years from now.
We can sit here until the beginning of the season and "grade" who "we" think is a first rounder, a second rounder, and on and on. But the truth is, until they actually play in the nfl for a couple seasons, that is when you can grade them as to what round they should of been drafted in. Examples; Ward, drafted in the third and has proven he should of been a first rounder. Antonio Brown, drafted in the sixth round and is proving at least a second, if not a first, etc. etc. player after player.
Joe Guard, Joe Nose Tackle and Joe Inside Linebacker are alot more important at 24th than Joe Receiver this year.
I can’t see them drafting a WR even if that’s the best player on their board. In all likelihood there will be 2 top ILB’s (Burfict, Hightower) on the board when they pick. There will be other players available when they pick that everyone expected to be gone. I’d prefer to see them trade down and add some extra qualify picks than take a WR in the first round.
we were one bad ankle away from 7 in XLV (Lg Benjamin)
I pledge allegiance to the Terrible Towel and the only team in America, and to the franchise for which it stands, one nation under Rooney, indivisible, with the ability to crush you all.
"He was popping off down there the first time they were about to score. So you run your mouth, expect to get something. Everything's between the lines, so he got what he had coming. He was running his mouth and getting in the way of the train, and the train wasn't coming off the track."
-James Harrison on Kyle Orton
We can get a quality WR later... I agree, 1,000 lbs in 1st 3 rounds
Stop with the WR and TE domination theory.
My theories:
- I’m glad the defense started giving up yards via the run. Why this stops teams from going at our #1 weakness. We didn’t get better because our DB’s or Passrush. We got better because teams actually thought they could gain yards running against us. Some did, but we figured out how to stop them when it counted.
- We don’t need another WR, please but Hines to rest and let’s move on. Swan, Stallworth, Lipps, Shanklin, etc.. all retired and the Steelers kept winning championship. If the scouting dept is worth a dime they will find a another Antonio Brown at 6’2" 210 lbs or above in the 4th round and later. Get to work on that, it is what you’re paid for and whoever convinced Tomlin and Colbert to draft Mendenhall and Sweed should be fired along with Arians. Set us back big time on both sides of the line.
- Not commenting on the 24th pick until I’ve heard more about their workouts and game film from the last 2 or 3 years. Say it with me, film doesn’t lie. Either you have a high motor at this stage or you don’t. Stop taking trash dlinemen and olinemen and trying to turn them into all pros. Give Kugler something to work with. I also think coach Mitchell is falling asleep at the wheel with the 1st round dlinemen, they have drafted for him. Ziggy doesn’t look that great at DE. Juror still out on Hayward, has a chance though
- My only draft suggestion is 2 olinemen 1st and 3rd round and dlineman 2nd round. Then go and get that big receiver or awesome DB that can play special teams. We also need someone with serious return skills like AB, don’t want him subjected to that pounding next year. Last but not least draft a punter/kicker etc….
- Please resign Cotchery, a nice security blanket for Ben
people are worried about drafting a tall receiver.......
of the top 50 in the draft, about 34 of them are over 6’ and around 23 of those are over 6’2". So there is no reason not to get one in round 3 or 4.
What's missing from this conversation
is that the O-line class in this years draft is also very deep. I know, the Steelers NEED to upgrade at O-line. There will be plenty of talent available in the bottom half of the second round to make that happen. Would it really be so bad if the Steelers ended up with another Marcus Gilbert?
The first pick needs to be an elite player, who can be a game changer. Go watch some highlight films of Alshon Jeffrey, and you will see he is just that. In 2010, Alshon Jeffrey, AJ Green and Julio Jones all played in the same conference, against NFL caliber DB’s. Jeffery had the most yards and TD’s out of the 3. If the Steelers have the opportunity to add a player with that talent level to their roster, then they have to pull the trigger, regardless of the position.
Trade out of #24, down to 2nd round...
…pick up an extra second round pick and double down on O-line; is the class that deep? Use other round received for our #24 and get the WR?
Interesting. I don’t follow draft classes well enough to speculate, but this does present an opportunity to leverage our #24.
United we Stand, melded like Steel
To Roger Goodell, We'll never Yield.
Or stay put at #24, and draft a player who can play at a high level for the next 10 years.
by Greig Clawson on Feb 13, 2012 1:51 PM EST up reply actions
Intrigued But
While intrigued by trading down and picking up 3 2nd round choices history tells me the Steelers are magic with their first round pick in the last couple decades. They will chose a definite starter somewhere in the line up for the next decade at #24. Why give that up?
When You Run The Ball Good Things Happen
+1
We aren’t going to get Steve Hutchinson, and we have our choice of several Kris Dielman sorts – talented but raw guys who lack experience, not talent.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 1:45 PM EST up reply actions
at 24, or even a next.....
“Casey Hampton”, “Alan Faneca” or even a “Joe Thomas”
I'm against drafting a WR in the first
And I really doubt, that after Rooney saying he wants to focus on running better this year they would go out and use their first round pick on a WR. Get a G who can play immediately and you will instantly see a better running and passing game.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
And if there aren't any guards with a first round grade?
Guards rarely get drafted in the first round, unless they are an elite talent. Unless one of the top guys happens to fall in the Steelers lap, they can wait until the second round, and find a starting caliber Guard.
by Greig Clawson on Feb 13, 2012 1:37 PM EST up reply actions
Exactly
Why can’t we find a guard in the second round?
All of this is under the assumption the best player available is a receiver when the Steelers are on the clock. It’s stupid to suggest drafting a guard who’s more than a few spots lower on their board simply because we need “a guard who can play immediately.”
I can’t find anything anywhere that really paints a clear difference between Cordy Glenn and Kelechi Osemele, but the main difference between them and other prospective guards is like an inch and 10 pounds.
If that’s all that separates that position from being a first round pick and a third, I’m fine with waiting and drafting the elite athletes.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 1:43 PM EST up reply actions
How many Guards in the 2012 pro-bowl were drafted in the first round?
If you look at the starters, reserves and alternates, their were 8 guards selected to the pro-bowl. Most of those players were selected in the fourth round, or later. Two were undrafted.
by Greig Clawson on Feb 13, 2012 1:50 PM EST up reply actions
Pro-bowl is NOT a measure of talent
If you go and look over the last 5 years at playoff teams a good portion of them came in the first round. I also imagine, though I haven’t done the research, a good majority of them had 1st round LTs.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 1:57 PM EST up reply actions
Not really
The Giants had 3 second rounders on their starting O-line.
by Greig Clawson on Feb 13, 2012 2:04 PM EST up reply actions
What do you mean "not really"?
The Giants weren’t the only team in the playoffs. The team they played in the SB has a 1st round LG. So, does the team they beat in the NFCCG.
3 of the 4 teams in the CCGs had 1st round LGs.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 2:08 PM EST up reply actions
Let's be honest
The Ravens made it as far as they did in spite of, not because of, their offensive line.
The fact is, like any position, you can find talent anywhere. I’m all for a guard if he’s at the top of the Steelers’ board when they’re on the clock. If he doesn’t have a first round grade, he shouldn’t be drafted in the first round.
DeCastro is the only one I’ve seen who really dominates his opponent. The other ones don’t always look like first round picks
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:11 PM EST up reply actions
You’re not going to find anyone at 24 who consistently dominated his opponents at any position. Jeffery and Floyd had their ups and downs, Wright didn’t play elite talent.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 2:18 PM EST up reply actions
The Big 12’s that bad, huh? Griffin gets a pass, but not him?
You can teach a wide receiver to run routes and work with him on his hands. He’ll learn the game as he grows. You can’t teach that kind of speed and height.
(and I’m really only putting this out there because others took ILB, OG, OT and NT. I really don’t think they’ll go WR, it’s just a conversation piece)
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:21 PM EST up reply actions
I didn’t say the Big 12 was bad, just there weren’t any top flight CBs he faced. If I’m wrong, you can point me to who he bested.
And if it’s a conversation piece, realize people are going to disagree.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 2:28 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t know about the Big 12, I was asking you. Quit being so damn defensive. I’m aware people disagree, I have no problem with it. If I disagree, they don’t have a problem with it.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:30 PM EST up reply actions
You’re being just as confrontational and defensive as you perceive that I am being.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 2:37 PM EST up reply actions
Alright, I’ll stop. Not trying to be a jerk, if I am, I apologize.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:38 PM EST up reply actions
he has been doing good work
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 4:02 PM EST up reply actions
I know
I think they do it to drive up the hits.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 4:01 PM EST up reply actions
Giving people a feel of what it’s like in a draft room….the hits are merely a byproduct of everyone else’s comments….
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 4:41 PM EST up reply actions
lol
That’d be pretty damn funny.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 4:42 PM EST up reply actions
that's it
I am charging by the joke now
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 4:47 PM EST up reply actions
Then go for an OT
Or an ILB. Why do we need a big/tall WR? We didn’t have one in 2008 or 2005. It’s a big waste of a pick IMO.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 1:51 PM EST up reply actions
The elite OT's will be off the board
The difference in ability between an OT drafted at the end of the first round, compared to the end of the second round is marginal. Case in point, Marcus Gilbert. He had just as good of a season as the OT’s drafted ahead of him.
If you want to see what a team that reaches in the draft looks like, then check out all of the perennial NFL bottom feeders. Reaching =’s failure.
by Greig Clawson on Feb 13, 2012 1:55 PM EST up reply actions
Case in point, Marcus Gilbert. He had just as good of a season as the OT’s drafted ahead of him.
He also wasn’t playing LT like the guys drafted at the end of the first.
I’m not asking us to reach. Personally, I think Jeffery and Wright aren’t 1st rounders.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 2:01 PM EST up reply actions
The team has enough faith in him to move him to left tackle
And that came before the draft or even free agency.
So, we have our future left tackle on our roster, and he was a second round pick.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:13 PM EST up reply actions
When did they say he was definitely the future LT?
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 2:19 PM EST up reply actions
When do they ever say that? The future is the 2012 season. They moved him to left, didn’t they? Is he not going to start over your buddy Jonathan Scott?
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:23 PM EST up reply actions
Are you confusing Marcus Gilbert for Max Starks? When did they move him to left?
When the hell was Scott ever my buddy?
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 2:29 PM EST up reply actions
It was sarcasm. You hate Scott, don’t you? I thought I remember you saying that last year.
No, I don’t mean Starks. With Colon coming back, Gilbert moves to left. Scott cannot play that position full time. I think what I read was from Wexell.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:37 PM EST up reply actions
Sorry, it’s hard to pick up sarcasm in text sometimes.
See, I didn’t read that mention by Wexell, so I didn’t know. But, I wouldn’t be shocked if they went after an OT who is more physical and a better athlete. It’s just my opinion, and I could be wrong, but I don’t think Gilbert is quick or mean enough to be a good LT.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 13, 2012 2:40 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah…they love their tackles to be nice guys from Florida.
I dunno, I didn’t think he was going to be a good right tackle, and he did alright. I’m not against a tackle in R1 either, but I think that’s a trade-up situation.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:47 PM EST up reply actions
Marvel Smith
2nd rounder who started at right tackle. Max Starks started at right tackle but ended up on the left as a 3rd rounder. Gilbert is destined for left tackle for as long as Colon remains on the team and no sure LT prospects show up. Colon cannot play elsewhere
Starks isn’t a great NFL LT though. He’s always been inconsistent and sometimes a liability against good speed rushes.
"It’s easy to lie with statistics, but it’s easier to lie without them." -Fred Mosteller
Follow me on Twitter
by John Stephens on Feb 14, 2012 1:30 PM EST up reply actions
Smith started at LT........
his career was cut short with a back injury and then they moved Starks to the left side. Starks doesnt have the atheticism or feet Smith had.
so.,.......the steelers "reached" on.............
Limas Sweed, 2nd round pick. Bruce Davis, 3rd round pick. Ricardo Colclough, 2nd round pick. Anthony Smith, 2nd round pick. Does this make the steelers a failure? No, I dont think so.
Fact is, we dont know how their “draft pick” status will actually play out in the NFL. Some guys are drafted in the 5th round pick and after being in the NFL and proving their abilities they should of been a 1st round pick. And, vice versa. Every team hits and misses on picks in every round.
Sure, we don't know how a player pan out
But a team can try to make an educated prediction, the result of which is a draft grade. When a team drafts a player earlier than what his draft grade dictates, that is reaching.
by Greig Clawson on Feb 13, 2012 9:28 PM EST up reply actions
Freebirds is much better than Chipotle
But as a native Southern Californian, I’ve been brought up on and spoiled by authentic & amazing Mexican. I give Chipotle a high 3rd round grade. :)
Linemen v. WR’s: we rarely hear about the former anyways, but it doesn’t diminish their importance. Without them there isn’t time to throw a ball, much less catch it or drop it.
BPA: I dint believe this is a year we employ the BPA. We have needs, and I just don’t think WR is a first round NEED. Haley did have a big, physical WR in AZ and KC, but he didn’t draft them, he inherited them. I doubt he chose his employers based on their ability to offer him the use of their big, physical WR in his offensive schemes. For all we know he loves speedy, shifty short WR’s. We just don’t know. For all the talk about how he adjusted his run game based on the skill sets of the RBs he had in each place, we don’t hear the same about the WRs because they were so similar in each city.
At 24, we do have the chance to draft BPA for positional needs, since we have needs in several areas. And our window is open now. We can’t rely on all of our drafted WRs catching on as quickly as our Young Money. (Limas…).
http://tr4f.wordpress.com
Mountainbiking the Continental Divide in 2012 to raise awareness of human trafficking.
by Fifty-Eight on Feb 13, 2012 1:47 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Big receiver?
Don’t we already have a guy at 6’5" with good hands? Granted, Heath doesn’t have 4.4 speed, but he manages to get open in the short game.
You beat me to it LOL
HHEEAATTH
Neal could be right that best player available at 24 is reciever. That presents an interesting options. Could trade down for more picks or could trade a current wr for an additional pick or just make contract decisions in 13 or 14 heck even this year easier. But Neal was reaching for reasons to make a compelling arguement for purposes of discussion, and he has accomplished that discussion in spades.
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."
--Aristotle
by steelerstyle on Feb 13, 2012 2:33 PM EST up reply actions
What happened to Wes Lyons?
I saw him pre season last year. Is he still on practice squad? The guy is 6’8" they don’t come much taller than that
by ShamrockSteeler on Feb 13, 2012 2:44 PM EST up reply actions
Good question, I thought Detroit had scooped him up but I’m sure someone’s got him if he’s not there. Anyone who can run with that kind of size will be on at least a practice squad until his eligibility is up. If you could make him fit into an offense and be ok, that’s one helluvan advantage.
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 2:48 PM EST up reply actions
I cant find anything on him other than us signing him pre-season last year
by ShamrockSteeler on Feb 13, 2012 2:59 PM EST up reply actions
I'm back and forth on a big receiver
Always agreed with Ben that we needed one and it shows that when we stall inside the red zone without having that WR to throw a fade to. But, now that we have a presumably creative OC, maybe he can devise some schemes to compensate for the lack of that type of receiver. Anythings better than watching us try and run those cross routes ate the 6 where all we get is receivers running into each other.
My 2 cents....
Tell Todd Haley to bring Dwayne Bowe with him…..
Sorry I didn’t read hardly anything posted above so excuse me if I repeat….the Steelers have awesome receivers…loving me some Cotchery as a slant receiver..but we need a jump ball junk yard dog…we don’t have that kind of guy…Bowe and Haley are close…don’t dismiss this idea….
I think this is a serious question
I love the Steelers.
by tannofsteel84 on Feb 13, 2012 3:14 PM EST up reply actions
The name is my handle at work for my football pools…it’s done well by me the last couple of years so I’ve kept it as a code name. I’ve dreamt of being able to stay at home, plop my feet up and watch my beloved Steelers all day…thus being a Trophy Wife. Don’t get too excited….it’s just a name….lol
I would think he’d be way too expensive. I love that guy though. Love to see him in a Steelers uniform. He’s gonna get tagged, isn’t he?
by Neal Coolong on Feb 13, 2012 3:05 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah the same guy that gave up on a ball!,,,
Impose your will.
You are absolutley right…but a girl can dream can’t she. lol…My ideal wideouts wud be….Brown, Saunders, Cotchery (sorry Hines…you need to see what time it is on ur Rolex) Miller and a Bowe type….we don’t have tough jump baller/go get it in the end zone kind of receiver…Ben wants one….and we need one…. Any suggestions…
Miller and as for hands...
I agree with Brown, he will outplay Wallace for years to come. He is the legit #1. Cotchery is your slot guy. Sanders to me needs to prove that he is healthy.
Rather draft a WR in the 5th. And add value in free agency in both sides of the line!
Impose your will.
NO
That is all.
"If you havin' dragon problems I feel bad for you son, I got 99 arrows but my knee took one."
If only guys like Poe are available at 24th
Then fine, pick a WR
Success With honor
by ICEICETHATGUY13 on Feb 13, 2012 5:34 PM EST reply actions
Rumors have it that Alshon Jeffery was seen training
and he weighs 249+ pounds and was running in the 4.8’s. No thanks to him.
draftdatabase.wordpress.com
Follow @steelersrule124
by seton hall and steelers on Feb 13, 2012 5:40 PM EST reply actions
Rumour starter?
Would the rumour have been started by someone who picks after us?
At that size and speed he is more of a TE.
anyone trying to contact me via my yahoo account should be aware it has been hacked
by Cold_Old_Steelers_Fan on Feb 13, 2012 8:47 PM EST up reply actions
Good Read
This is the 1st year where I do not have a clue what the steelers should do. I wanted Plaxico to come back to Pittsburgh and they let him walk and the jets picked him up. I would like to see Mike Wallace in a Steelers uniform next season. I think the hard decisions they are talking about is releasing some good defensive players in order to pay Wallace his value. I don’t know what that is but it ain’t cheap. I still think we need to address the corneback issue. Its time to get someone to fill the void of casey hampton. The Inside Linbacker position is an issue. However, I like the young players we already have. Like this read though its something to think about.
Hard Work Pays Off!!
hey are talking about is releasing some good defensive players in order to pay Wallace his value
They aren’t releasing any good players, only old players who have little use to us (a la McFadden).
I still think we need to address the corneback issue
There is no issue at CB.
"If you havin' dragon problems I feel bad for you son, I got 99 arrows but my knee took one."
If DeCastro or Poe are sitting at 24, there is no way they don't take them.
You guys are set with Young Money for a while. Besides, if you guys take Sanu/Randle/Floyd, then we won’t get to replace Jacoby Jones, and Houston will collectively commit suicide.
Are we the Detroit Lions?
You don’t go out and purchase tinted windows when your car engine is sputtering. The wheels are falling off the waggon and you want to get another horse?
Nose Tackle, Offensive Tackle, Guard or Shut Down Corner is what we need. The BPA strategy sounds sexy but we have real needs this year that can’t be ignored by adding a 4th wideout who may or may not even play this season.
Something to say? Choose one of these options to log in.
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
"Thoughtful discussion with a sense of history."
Art Rooney Jr.
"Level-headed thinking." Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Related FanPosts on Behind the Steel Curtain
Related FanShots on Behind the Steel Curtain
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recommended FanPosts
Recent FanPosts
SBNation.com Recent Stories
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
