PDA

View Full Version : Season Preview



Chidi29
07-25-2010, 06:58 AM
With training camp set to kick off in a week, it's time to breakdown the group we have. First, my analysis of each player on the roster.

QB

Ben Roethlisberger - In what can only be described as the worst offseasons imaginable, Big Ben will have the opportunity to make fans forget about the past few months. Stating the obvious, he has been suspended for the first six games though most people, including myself, expect his suspension reduced to four games. That would put his first start at Week 6, after the team's bye, against the Browns. Despite all the negative attention he's received, Ben's game-changing ability has not gone away. He is by far the best QB on the team and is the only QB that can command a high-powered offense for a whole season. Despite that, he has to be more consistent. Too many times have we seen Ben make a brilliant play only to make a mistake in a similar situation at another point. He needs to learn to read the blitz better and to get the ball out his hand quickly if he's facing one. That is what's separating him from the likes of the Peyton Manning's and Drew Brees' of the world.

Byron Leftwich - The man who will likely be filling in for Ben, Leftwich returns to Pittsburgh after being traded for a 7th round pick. Leftwich played sparingly two seasons ago doing a serviceable job. He is more than a run-of-the-mill game manager and his strong arm will make teams think twice about stacking the box, but the effectiveness of the running game will be the key factor with Byron in the lineup.

Dennis Dixon - If there was ever a time for Dixon to get some consistent playing time, it would be now. But that doesn't seem likely to happen meaning Dixon will continue to be a backup. He got an emergency start last year on Monday Night versus the Ravens and given the unusual circumstances, played well. But Leftwich got the majority of first-team reps in OTAs, and it'll be tough to pry any away from Big Ben and Leftwich in training camp. Once Ben comes back, Dixon will be the emergency 3rd quarterback. As his contract nears its end, it's hard not to imagine what the plan for Dixon was all along.

Charlie Batch - Batch's contract was originally not renewed and he hit free agency, but the team brought him back on a two-year deal in the offseason. He'll be the 3rd stringer for the first four to six weeks. It's safe to assume that he'll be cut once Ben is reinstated. It's rare for teams to carry four quarterbacks on the roster.

RB

Rashard Mendenhall - He made the most of his opportunity last season. After being benched in the first meeting against the Bengals, Mendenhall exploded rushing for over 1100 yards and a 4.6 YPC. He ran lower to the ground and churned out more tough run as the season progressed. He's also made improvements in the passing game and blitz pickup. There's no reason to think he won't build on last year.

Mewelde Moore - With Willie Parker predictably being let go, Moore enters 2010 as the clear backup. He has the ability to spell Mendenhall when needed and is an asset out of the backfield. He could also see some punt returns in situations where the return team is in their own red zone, as he did last year. But with Mendenhall becoming more and more of a three down back, Moore's playing time could shrink. Tomlin became unhappy with Moore's pass protection, even singling him out in a press conference. His decline is evident.

Jonathan Dwyer - Taken in the sixth round after questions rose about a broken toe and failed drug test (Which turned out to be due to ADHD medication), Dwyer was the team's best value pick last April. He played in Georgia Tech's triple option offense (Playing only eight snaps out of the I-Form the last two years according to running back's coach Kirby Wilson) and while some may think that is a big hurdle, it isn't. Running back is the easiest position to transition to and he did play is freshman year in a pro offense under now Bills coach Chan Gailey.

Isaac Redman - Last year's preseason darling, "Redzone" Redman wound up being on the practice squad all for one game. Kirby Wilson praised his conditioning, stating that it was much better than what it was his rookie season because of his small college's (Bowie St) conditioning program. He looked good when given the chance, but the team only carried three backs last season. With Redman being regarded more as a downhill runner, it wouldn't make sense to keep both him and Dwyer. Most short-yardage, tough-it-out plays are dependant on the offensive line getting a good initial push. Not about the running back. It seems unlikely that Redman will make the roster.

Justin Vincent - The Walter Young of running backs, Vincent has hung around on the roster the past couple of years but never making it farther than the practice squad. The former LSU-alum, perhaps most famous for getting body slammed by Patrick Willis in college, doesn't have a better chance this year. He won't make the roster and I believe is out of practice squad eligibility.

FB

Frank Summers - The coaching staff has taken the wrong approach with him. Drafted with high hopes, he spent his time trying to be a lead blocker. He isn't one, running the ball more often in college, and unsurprisingly, the experiment failed. A back injury put him on IR early into the season. Unless his blocking magically does a 180, it'd seem unlikely that he would make the roster. Again, pointing back to the fact that assuming Dwyer makes the team, (Granted, that is no guarantee) there isn't a need for another big back. The practice squad would be the best place to work on his blocking.

Demetrius Taylor - Taylor has received more attention than most undrafted rookies do. Standing in at 6'0 273 and playing fullback, a position that has gotten little attention the past couple years, he is an intriguing player. However, fans shouldn't get their hopes up. Taylor is converting from defensive tackle at hasn't played in the backfield since high school. Best case scenario, he makes the practice squad.

Sean McHugh - An H-Back for the Super Bowl team two years ago, he spent last season on injured reserve after a knee injury flared up. It was reported that he was only put on IR out of fear of the Bengals signing him if he became a free agent. McHugh could make the team if Summers gets the axe.

David Johnson - A 7th round pick last year, I didn't give Johnson a chance to make the team. I was wrong, and he played a role as an H-Back in the second half of the year. His run blocking showed improvement, but his role as an H-Back may be the ceiling. He has bad hands and lacks upside. Still, he could earn a roster spot especially when you consider that Mike Tomlin, who once worked at Arkansas St, likely had an influence in drafting him.

Chidi29
07-25-2010, 06:59 AM
WR

Hines Ward - He put up numbers that he hasn't touched since 2003. 95 receptions and nearly 1200 yards, he was always a guy to count on to pick up that crucial 3rd down. He has been a big help to young guys like Mike Wallace, Emmanuel Sanders, and Antonio Brown, basically becoming another coach during training camp. As much as I respect him, there are concerns. His knee problems weren't much of an issue last year, but as he continues to age, it becomes more and more of a concern. He will slow down at one point. After trading Santonio Holmes in the offseason, multiple receivers will have to step up.

Mike Wallace - More than just a pleasant surprise, Wallace was constantly a threat last year. Be it burning defensive backs for long touchdowns or catching game-winning touchdowns as time expires, he gave the team yet another threat. He's expected to move outside to the #2 spot with Holmes gone (Though recent Rashard Mendenhall comments casts some doubt on that) where he played on 3rd downs last year. Losing Big Ben for the first four games won't be the worst thing for him; Leftwich has a stronger arm to take advantage of Wallace's speed. Ben consistently underthrew him, even on some of his touchdowns.

Antwaan Randle El - His second stint with the team, Randle El signed a three year deal in early March. With a much more high-powered offense than before, he'll be a key in order for the team to have a successful offense. He struggled in Washington as the #2, but a move to the slot back in the Burgh will do him some good. Randle El could also move back outside on 3rd downs, allowing Ward to move to the slot as Mike Wallace did as the #3 last season. Questions do remain about Randle El's speed as he hits his 30s. He was always more quick than fast, and that has declined as he's aged.

Arnaz Battle - For awhile, it didn't seem like Battle had any chance to stick. Then Santonio Holmes was traded and Limas Sweed tore his Achilles. Battle is still facing a crowded WR situation, competing with rookies Emmanuel Sanders and Antonio Brown, but his veteran experience over those players is a plus. According to 49ers' fans, Battle is a team player who didn't complain about having his role as a receiver reduced to rubble (From 2006 to last year, his receptions went from 59 to five). He also has extensive experience on special teams as a return man and a gunner. If he makes the team, it will be due to those special teams abilities.

Emmanuel Sanders - The team's 3rd round pick out of SMU, he is a speedy player who was described as "quick to the tuck" by wide receivers coach Scottie Montgomery. He has a small frame that could limit him to the slot and his route running is raw, saying that he never ran a comeback route in college. He may not make an impact as a receiver right away. He handled some of the punt return duties in college and has the skillset to be an able kickoff returner. Special teams is where he'll make his biggest mark his rookie year.

Antonio Brown - The second wide receiver the team took in the draft, Brown was selected in the 6th round out of Central Michigan. He put up monstrous numbers, but greatly benefited from the team's spread offense. He is bigger but slower than Sanders. Brown has worked in every facet of special teams; return man, gunner, jammer; you name it, he's done it. Players like Hines Ward had to start on special teams and work up the ladder. Brown's extensive experience will definitely get him an edge and it isn't out of the question that he could get the nod over Emmanuel Sanders if the team only keeps four WRs active as the team did last year.

Limas Sweed - After dropping passes last year and ending up on injured reserve for an undisclosed illness (Believed to be depression), Sweed was hopeful to start with a clean slate this season. Unfortunately, he tore his Achilles tendon in OTAs and has been placed on injured reserve, ending his season. Sweed has the size and runs crisp routes, but injuries and poor hands have always held him back. Time is running out for a guy who was considered to be a steal the day he was drafted.

Tyler Grisham - He came up for a cup of coffee Week 16 against the Ravens, picking up one first down and one drop. Some have called him the team's Wes Welker, but that comparison is extremely far off. The two are nothing alike. He has little to no shot to make the roster. It's just too crowded.

Brandon London - London was signed to a futures contract early in the offseason. He has the height, 6'4, that'll make you take a second look, but hasn't been able to put it together in his career. With the aforementioned deep WR core, London doesn't stand much of a chance.

Isaiah Williams - Williams was signed after Limas Sweed was placed on injured reserve. A formed Raven practice squader, he's just a camp body.

TE

Heath Miller - After getting a $40+ million extension last offseason, Miller went off for career highs in receptions in yards. He became Ben's safety valve but is a legitimate weapon in his own right, especially in the red zone. His blocking is extremely undervalued as well. He is a borderline elite tight end.

Matt Spaeth - He's never been able to live up to his 3rd round tag. He has the size, but limited athletic ability and below average run blocking have made him a liability more than an asset. He'll occasionally show up in the red zone but for the most part, is an afterthought. He was phased out of the offense in the second half of the season. The fact that he was tendered makes his chances of making the roster good, but he won't be an impact player.

Eugene Bright - The team shuffled tight ends on and off the practice squad. First it was Dezmond Sherrod, then it was Kevin Brock, and finally, Bright. A Purdue alum, he drew some praise in OTAs but is unlikely to make the team.

OL

Max Starks - He is far from an elite tackle, he's not even a good one, but he did make improvements. His pass protection slowly improved and he was beat less often, showing more patience and not sealing the edge too early. His run blocking isn't terrible though it could be better for a player of his build. There have been rumors that Starks will kick over to right tackle after the loss of Willie Colon but it's highly unlikely (and illogical).

Jonathan Scott - New offensive line coach Sean Kugler brought Scott over from Buffalo. It's difficult to gauge how talented Scott is. He has the size to play tackle, weighing in at 6'6 318, but just about everyone short of myself played on the line for the Bills. As stated, competition along the line is also very crowded, but Scott will get his chance.

Tony Hills - *See Matt Spaeth* Never grabbing a hold of the potential he was said to have coming out of Texas, Hills spent all but a week or two in street clothes. There are plenty of lineman to compete for the three (Four at max) backup jobs and unless Hills somehow puts it altogether, he won't make the team.

Kyle Jolly - Don't forget his name. He will move to the right side in the NFL after starting 38 straight games at left tackle during his time at North Carolina. Under Tomlin, there always is at least one lineman to make the team as an undrafted free agent. Darnell Stapleton, Ramon Foster, and Doug Legursky are all examples of this. One of the undrafted offensive lineman will make the team. Count on it.

Adrian Jones - Recently signed after Willie Colon was officially placed on injured reserve, Jones is unlikely to make the team. He's bounced around from team to team, playing with the Chiefs and Jets, but has never stuck anywhere for an extended period of time. He's this year's Alex Stepanovich, just signed a little bit earlier.

Chris Kemoeatu - This could be a breakout year for him. An athletic mauler who has shown quick feet on trap blocks, his pass protection just needs to become a little more consistent. Injuries held him back last season as he battled a sprained MCL that he never fully recovered from. Healthy now, he's ready to take the next step. Look out for Kemoeatu. Not that he's that hard to miss.

Justin Hartwig - He's better than Sean Mahan. Then again, that's not saying much. Hartwig is an average center who is holding the spot warm for Maurkice Pouncey. Injuries are a concern with Hartwig. He hasn't had anything major yet, but the small injuries are beginning to mount. He dealt with a knee injury last year and had cleanup surgery on his shoulder early in the offseason.

Chidi29
07-25-2010, 07:00 AM
OL

Trai Essex - The starter last year, Essex was the teams' worst lineman. His run blocking wasn't too bad, but his pass blocking was terrible from Week 1 and never improved (Unlike Starks). He found himself thrown off balanced and lacked a strong first punch. With the team drafting Maurkice Pouncey and losing Willie Colon, Essex is likely to battle it out for the starting right tackle gig.

Maurkice Pouncey - The team's first round pick out of Florida, Pouncey is slated to man in the team's rich history of long-time centers. For now though, he's going to attempt to become the starting right guard and eventually work his way over. He was called one of the most mature rookies by Tomlin and seems to be very smart, not being phased by the intense playbook the NFL brings.

Ramon Foster - He was another one of those "Where did he come from?" players that made the team as an undrafted rookie because of his strong showing in the preseason and ability to play every position but center. He looked lost in his first start against the Ravens, but improved before Kemoeatu came back to reclaim his spot. He's a good "hat on a hat" blocker and does have some upside. Foster would be the best choice to start at RT.

Doug Legursky - Undrafted out of Marshall, Legursky is the definition of a workout warrior. He's undersized and has only seen a few snaps of regular season action, but will outwork anyone in the locker room. That definitely has earned him some brownie points and gives him an edge as he again fights to make the roster for the third year in a row.

Kraig Urbik - Not using any hindsight here. I didn't like the pick from the moment we took him. Urbik got by on his strength at Wisconsin, but has zero athletic ability. That showed in the preseason and Urbik ended up dressing in street clothes all year. With the team drafting Pouncey and Scott, it shows a lack of confidence in the second year man. Even with Scott's injury, Urbik may not make the roster. The team wasn't afraid to cut ties with Bruce Davis early and could do the same with Urbik.

Chris Scott - A 5th rounder out of Tennessee, he is virtually a Ramon Foster clone. He has game experience at every position but center and has played at center in practices. Injuries struck him, however, and he suffered a fractured foot that will keep him out for approximately three months. He'll likely find himself on IR.

Dorian Brooks - Considered to be a small school sleeper, hailing from James Madison, by some scouts, Brooks will try to overcome a crowded situation at guard. It'll be a tough task though as stated, some "no name" along the line will end up making the team. If he doesn't make the 53, the practice squad is a good bet.

DL

Aaron Smith - The rock of the defensive line for what seems like forever, his absence due to a torn rotator cuff was definitely noticed. Always solid against the run, Smith looks to get back into old form. It will be easier said than done mind you. This is the second injury to his right arm in the past few years. He tore his biceps in 2007. Moreover, he's 34 and major injuries like these (Especially after trying to play through it and doing even more damage as he did) are tough to come back from. Factor in the physically demanding nature of his position, the five technique, and he'll have to be healthy in order to be effective. All other ten starters of the defense are hoping that's the case.

Brett Keisel - One of the team's late round finds, taken in the 7th round, Kiesel brings a little more to the table than the typical 3-4 end. He's the best pass rushing lineman even if the numbers don't exactly back that up. His run defense can be suspect at times, however, especially against teams that try to move him rather than run him over. The Bengals are the best example of this, successfully pulling off the Colts' patented stretch run at the expense of Kiesel. Ziggy Hood is putting some heat on, but Kiesel's job should be safe this year.

Ziggy Hood - The team's first round draft pick last year, I will be the first to admit that I didn't like the pick. But I'll be the first to eat crow. His role slowly expanded over the year, making it somewhat difficult to gauge exactly how good this guy can be. Hood came on strong at the end of the year, recording a sack and a fumble recovery Week 16 against the Ravens. He has the pass rushing ability Kiesel has, but a much bigger frame and will likely be tougher against the run. Under the coaching of John Mitchell and veteran starters, Hood has a lot of potential.

Nick Eason - Now the team's lone veteran backup end after Travis Kirschke's retirement, Eason helped fill in for Aaron Smith. He isn't a flashy player by any means, but isn't a big liability either. That aforementioned veteran experience will likely be enough to get him on the team. The Steelers' don't want a team full of young backups should another injury occur.

Sonny Harris - After dominating them in the last preseason game, the Panthers quickly scooped Harris up and onto their roster. The team got him back late in the year and he'll enter camp to nab one of the last defensive end spots. Harris has excellent upper body strength and can be a force. He'll battle Doug Worthington and Scott Paxson.

Doug Worthington - The club's final selection in April, Worthington has limited upside but could be solid against the run. He'll have to bulk up a bit, something he's likely already begun doing, but he wouldn't be the first defensive end to beat the odds. Aaron Smith and as said, Brett Keisel were second day picks.

Scott Paxson - He's listed as a nose tackle but has the build of an end. Very similar to Justin Vincent, Paxson has hung around the practice squad but hasn't made the roster coming out of camp. It won't be any different this time around.

Casey Hampton - A seemingly new player, despite getting a three year deal, he has shown better workout than anyone, including myself, ever expected. He showed up for OTAs and there is no chance of him landing on the PUP list like he did a few years ago when he couldn't pass the conditioning test to start camp. He started to see less double teams last year which to say the least, is a concern. Maybe the better work ethic will be act as a jumpstart. Because he's going to need to be a plugger if the 3-4 defense is going to work.

Chris Hoke - It is surprising that the team has little depth at nose tackle. Hoke has been a team player and shown value in the past, but he doesn't offer much to the team now. He hasn't had extensive starting experience since he was in his 20s and was rarely used on defense in 2009. He rarely came in to spell Casey Hampton and Ziggy Hood took over on 3rd downs when the team only uses one down lineman. For the most part, Hoke just spent his time on special teams working on kick returns. It'd be nice to have a better backup than Hoke.

Steve McClendon - A second year man out of Troy, McClendon spent last year in camp with the Steelers. Had showed a good motor and good awareness, but lacks upper body strength and is undersized. It'd be nice to see, but he's not going to beat out Chris Hoke.

Chidi29
07-25-2010, 07:01 AM
LB

James Harrison - He regressed somewhat from his numbers two years ago, but that was to be expected. Harrison received more attention, often having a running back or tight end on his side. Harrison is a no-nonsense hard-worker and while I'm taking a bit of a leap of faith here, the team wouldn't have inked him to a long-term deal if there was a big fear of a rapid decline.

LaMarr Woodley - Woodley benefited from the attention Harrison got, putting up 13.5 sacks last year and 25 the past two years. He started off the year quietly but exploded down the stretch. Like Harrison, Woodley is extremely strong and has one of the best bull rushes in the league. His contract situation has been an issue of much talk and it will take a large sum of money to keep him around. It may not end up happening so enjoy this season as much as possible.

Andre Frazier - The team's top backup last year, Frazier played sparingly outside of special teams. Still, he has experience and likely the trust of the coaching staff. He's likely to make the team.

Jason Worilds - The team's second round pick, Worilds hopes to pan out better than Bruce Davis. The big element that separates the two is the fact that Worilds should excel on special teams, an area that Davis did not. Worilds was drafted out of Virginia Tech where head coach Frank Beamer places a special emphasis on special teams. Worilds could wind up being a replacement for Woodley should he end up walking.

Thaddeus Gibson - The second linebacker taken by the team in the draft, Gibson was drafted in the 4th round out of Ohio St.He too has experience on special teams and will have to start at that spot as he did in college. The Buckeyes have a similar defense schematically to the Steelers, making the jump to the Dick LeBeau defense a little bit easier than the normal rookie. Keenan Lewis struggled picking up the playbook last year, a big reason for why he was inactive so much.

Lindsey Witten - The younger brother of Donte Whitner, Wiitten signed as an undrafted free agent out of UConn. He's converting to outside linebacker after playing with his hand down in college. Outside linebacker is very crowded and for Witten, the best case scenario would be making the practice squad. Even that seems unlikely.

James Farrior - Aging and declining, Farrior is still an important part of the team. He's clearly lost a step and doesn't seem to trust his instincts in pass coverage as much as he used to, but is still an asset against the run. Most importantly, he's the defensive leader who relays all the calls from LeBeau. That is something that simply can't be replaced at the drop of a hat. Two quick fun facts about Farrior: He is the only current Steeler to be a top ten pick and found out he's cousins with 6th rounder Jonathan Dwyer.

Lawrence Timmons - Fans are quick to get on his case, but he was impressive last year. He isn't the typical "Take on the guard and blow him up" linebacker you might be used to, but he isn't bad against the run. His athletic ability is something we haven't seen at that position in years and with more teams using athletic TEs and the Steelers flashing some components of the Tampa 2 (Look back to the Packers game where Timmons was dropped to the deep middle), it's a great quality to have. Consider all this while dealing with a sprained ankle, and he had a good year and will improve on that.

Larry Foote - Adding to the 2005 team reunion, Foote re-signed with the team after spending a year with the Lions. Yeah, I'd re-sign with us too after spending a year in Detroit. He adds quality depth to the position should Timmons' ankle flare up again. He's a better option than Fox at inside linebacker.

Keyaron Fox - He's given the team exactly what he was brought in for. A tough run blocker who makes the biggest impact on special teams, Fox should continue to do that.

Patrick Bailey - Making the team as an undrafted free agent from Duke, he won the team's Joe Greene award two years ago given annually to the team's best rookie. However, he struggled badly on kickoff coverage being pushed out of his lane and creating lanes. He's a hard-working player who doesn't quit on a play, but it might not be enough for him to make the team this season.

Stevenson Sylvester - The third and final linebacker taken in the draft, Sylvester is being moved inside to give him a better opportunity to make the team. Sylvester made his All-Conference team three years in a row and has as much experience on special teams as he does defense.

Renauld Williams - Williams was one of two CFL linebackers to be brought on during the offseason. Derrick Doggett was cut, but Williams will enter camp looking to make a name on special teams. In three seasons with the CFL, he recorded 29 tackles on special teams. Players like Patrick Bailey, who made the team as an undrafted free agent and was the team's rookie of the year two years ago, give hope for Williams, but after drafting three linebackers in April, he's a longshot.

Johnny Williams - Not much to say. Out of Kentucky, Williams has virtually no shot to make the roster. He's this year's version of Tom Korte or Andrew Schantz.

CB

Ike Taylor - Taylor is a corner who can match up against any team's #1 WR. He's certainly not known for his ball skills but fans have come to accept that. He's got good size and is a willing tackler, a must in Dick LeBeau's defense. Taylor is in the last year of his deal. It'd be surprising if he walked.

Bryant McFadden - This will be McFadden's second go around with the club. He was traded on draft day for a 5th rounder. Believe it or not, his numbers aren't that much better than Gay's and getting Troy Polamalu back will be the big key for the team, but corner depth is that much better with McFadden. That is key as teams use more receivers and spread the field more often. He won't be handed a starting job, but will likely be the corner opposite of Ike Taylor Week 1.

William Gay - He wasn't good last year. No doubt about it. But his struggles weren't entirely his fault. After the team lost Troy Polamalu, their biggest (And really only) weapon in the secondary. This meant that either the team would have to take non-playmakers and make them as such, a recipe for disaster, or be forced to get nickeled and dimed down the field. A lot of the receptions given up are short passes underneath, taking advantage of the passive zone the corners play. That isn't anything new. It just sticks out more often because there isn't that big play or two that helps to justify the scheme. Gay will likely be the nickel corner, but don't write him off. He was the reason why we felt comfortable in letting McFadden go and Gay is a good tackler provided that it isn't Adrian Peterson in the open field.

Joe Burnett - Most fans will remember him for a play that Burnett wished you didn't: his dropped interception against the Raiders that gave Oakland a second chance to win. Burnett got two starts after Gay was benched. He's athletic with fluid hips and will again compete with Keenan Lewis.

Keenan Lewis - As mentioned, Lewis was rarely active his rookie year. Struggles to pick up the playbook and a back injury contributed to his inability to get a helmet. Still, he has good size and looked very physical in the preseason. With the playbook under his belt, we'll get a much better representation of what Lewis is made of his second year.

Crezdon Butler - A 5th round pick out of Clemson, Butler is quite the athlete. Runnning in the 4.4's, he said that his struggles last year in college were due to the team using more man coverage instead of previous zone schemes. He's probably elated to be playing in such a zone heavy scheme here. Even if Butler makes the team, it's tough to imagine him being active very often. A

Anthony Madison - He's created a niche here but will be fighting an uphill battle. A proven gunner, Madison posses small size and offers little as an actual cornerback. He'll likely end up on speed dial if there's an injury.

David Pittman - A former 3rd rounder who never panned out with the Ravens, Pittman will attempt to stick with the Steelers. It'll be tough to beat out higher upside players Kennan Lewis, Joe Burnett, and Crezdon Butler and fellow veteran Anthony Madison, who has proven himself to be a capable gunner. Pittman is unlikely to make the team.

Chidi29
07-25-2010, 07:01 AM
S

Troy Polamalu - Fans, players, and coaches alike will be holding their breath, hoping that Troy stays healthy. Injuries to ligaments in his knees that doctors said could be career-threatening if he tried to play again, Troy is one of the biggest, maybe the biggest, risk/reward players in the league. He is truly an impact player, game-changer, call it whatever you want. A guy like him doesn't come along often and makes the secondary go. He has to stay healthy this year. That's the bottomline.

Ryan Clark - For awhile, it seemed that Clark was going to take the LeBron James route ((In location anyway) and head to Miami. He re-signed with the Steelers at the last minute. He isn't a special player, but is a good complement to Troy's aggressive style. Clark is one of the hardest hitters on the team having the ability to knock someone out.

Will Allen - A mostly forgotten pickup amidst all the offseason woes. He too signed a three year deal on the same day as Randle El. Tyrone Carter's struggles were obvious last season. He wasn't in a position to be a starter for any length of time and subsequently, his contract was not renewed. Allen enters with solid experience in Tampa and should provide better insurance behind Troy should he succumb to another injury (That sound you hear is Steeler Nation crossing their fingers).

Ryan Mundy - A 6th round pick two years ago, Mundy has shown ability at times, but has been over-aggressive too often. This has lead to missed tackles and costly penalties. He'll continue to backup Ryan Clark.

Tuff Harris - A formed Titan, he was signed to the practice squad right before the team's game against Tennessee. Coincidence? I think not. He stayed there the rest of the year and is unlikely to make the team.

Justin Thornton - Another undrafted rookie, he's a player to keep an eye on. He was one of the more impressive players in OTAs, picking off passes day in and day out. He has a chance to beat out Mundy, but the practice squad is more realistic.

LS

Greg Warren - He's run into tough luck the past two years. First, he tears his ACL against the Giants, forcing the team to use James Harrison as the long snapper, probably costing us the game. Last year, he tears the ACL again on the extra point after the Mike Wallace game-winning touchdown versus Green Bay. Obviously, it's not a physically demanding position, but he hasn't had much time to recover from such a serious injury. His roster spot is in jeopardy.

Matthew Stewart - The man that could take his spot. Signed in the offseason, the team liked his versatility. He can also play linebacker. It's a little odd to see a long-snapper for long-snapper transaction (Jared Retofsky was released to make room) so you have to think that the team sees something in Stewart.

K

Jeff Reed - He's been one of the most accurate kickers in the NFL. That accomplishment is even more impressive when you consider the fact that he's had to kick at Heinz Field. His kickoff distance is poor, but that could easily be by design; the team asking him to sacrifice distance for hangtime. He was booming it against Green Bay. Reed was franchised by the team and will try to get a long-term deal done in the upcoming offseason.

P

Daniel Sepulevda - His numbers were just average but that could be a result of him coming back from a torn ACL. This year will be an important one; a good showing is important for the one-time linebacker.

RS

Stefan Logan - Some weeks, he looked good. Others, not so much. He burst onto the scene in the preseason and forced himself onto the roster. He didn't return a kick for a touchdown, but posted a good average. Punt returns were less spectacular and trust seemed to be an issue between him and the coaching staff. With all the potential return man on the roster who can contribute elsewhere (Randle El, Sanders, Brown, Burnett, Moore), it'll be just as difficult for Logan to make the roster.

Chidi29
07-25-2010, 07:07 AM
And my crack at the roster and practice squad. This is of course subject to change and will over the course of the preseason.

Projected 53 Man Roster

QB (3) - Ben Roethlisberger (suspension list), Byron Leftwich, Dennis Dixon, Charlie Batch
RB (3) - Rashard Mendenhall, Mewelde Moore, Jonathan Dwyer
FB (1) - David Johnson
WR (5) - Hines Ward, Mike Wallace, Antwaan Randle El, Emmanuel Sanders, Antonio Brown
TE (2) - Heath Miller, Matt Spaeth
LT (1) - Max Starks
LG (1) - Chris Kemoeatu
C (1) - Justin Hartwig
RG (3) - Maurkice Pouncey, Trai Essex, Doug Legursky
RT (2) - Ramon Foster, Kyle Jolly
DE (6) - Aaron Smith, Brett Kiesel, Ziggy Hood, Nick Eason, Sonny Harris, Doug Worthington
NT (2) - Casey Hampton, Chris Hoke
OLB (5) - James Harrison, LaMarr Woodley, Jason Worilds, Andre Frazier, Thaddeus Gibson
ILB (5) - James Farrior, Lawrence Timmons, Larry Foote, Keyaron Fox, Stevenson Sylvester
CB (6) - Ike Taylor, Bryant McFadden, William Gay, Keenan Lewis, Joe Burnett, Crezdon Butler
FS (2) - Ryan Clark, Ryan Mundy
SS (2) - Troy Polamalu, Will Allen
K (1) - Jeff Reed
P - (1) Daniel Sepulevda
LS (1) - Matthew Stewart
RS (1) - Antwaan Randle El



Inactives (Typical)

QB (1) - Charlie Batch (Emergency 3rd)
WR (1) - Emmanuel Sanders
RG (1) - Doug Legursky
DE (1) - Doug Worthington
OLB (1) - Thaddeus Gibson
ILB (1) - Stevenson Sylvester
CB (2) - Crezdon Butler, Joe Burnett

Injured Reserve
\
WR (1) - Limas Sweed
OG (1) - Chris Scott
OT (1) - Willie Colon

Practice Squad

RB (1) - Issac Redman
FB (1) - Frank Summers
WR (2) - Tyler Grisham, Brandon London
TE (1) - Eugene Bright
OG (1) - Dorian Brooks
NT (1) - Steve McClendon
S (1)- Justin Thornton

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

A couple notes on the predictions.

We can have 54 players until Ben gets back. By putting him on the reserved/suspended list, he does not count against the roster. Once he returns, Charlie Batch would be let go and Dennis Dixon would become the emergency 3rd string QB.

Kyle Jolly may be a name you don't recognize. For those who skimmmed over the player breakdown, there has been an undrafted rookie on the line make the team each year. He or Dorian Brooks will be that guy.

solardave
07-25-2010, 08:14 AM
Good Job Chidi! You put a lot of work into this and the only thing I think Jolly may be a surprise and possibly take Starks job away but that's because I think Starks is a real weak link.

Chidi29
07-25-2010, 10:55 AM
Good Job Chidi! You put a lot of work into this and the only thing I think Jolly may be a surprise and possibly take Starks job away but that's because I think Starks is a real weak link.

I wouldn't go that far. Not with the money we're paying Max.

tony hipchest
07-25-2010, 02:45 PM
good effort, well written. i think we need 4 rb and 1 fb so assuming theyre 100% healthy, im adding frank summers and mchugh (back up TE) and dropping d. johnson and frazier).

i think j. scott makes the team over jolley based on experience (and familiarity w/ kugler alone). i also have a feeling this may be the year we have 9 OL make the team which is good news for hills and legursky. this move could possibly send a. brown to the practice squad.

you have randle el up there twice (assuming a typo) so im gonna replace him with arnaz battle on ST. no way we put a million bucks in his pocket just to cut him.

Psycho Ward 86
07-25-2010, 03:00 PM
Charlie Batch signed a 2 year deal, not 1.

Chidi29
07-25-2010, 03:01 PM
good effort, well written. i think we need 4 rb and 1 fb so assuming theyre 100% healthy, im adding frank summers and mchugh (back up TE) and dropping d. johnson and frazier).

i think j. scott makes the team over jolley based on experience (and familiarity w/ kugler alone). i also have a feeling this may be the year we have 9 OL make the team which is good news for hills and legursky. this move could possibly send a. brown to the practice squad.

you have randle el up there twice (assuming a typo) so im gonna replace him with arnaz battle on ST. no way we put a million bucks in his pocket just to cut him.

I don't see much of a reason to keep two out of the Dwyer/Redman/Summers combination. They all pretty much bring the same thing to the table. More along the lines of being a downhill runner with a large frame. And when you need to pick up that crucial yard or two, it's more dependant on the the offensive line getting a good push rather than having a power back in the backfield. They're really more of a luxury than something that's needed IMO. Unless Frank's blocking magically turned it around, I wouldn't put him on the team. Pick the best runner out of the three and put the other two on the practice squad.

McHugh vs Johnson is a coinflip. Went with Johnson because I'm guessing that was a Tomlin call in the war room. Probably still knows a guy from when he coached at Arkansas St and got a good recommendation. Either way though, I'm not going to complain.

Like I said, I know Jolly seems like a longshot. But so did the other UDFA I talked about. I really don't know much about the guy as a player; mostly from what I've read in bios, but figure either he or Brooks will come out of nowhere and snag a spot. Scott's familarity might have given him an edge early in the process, but everyone else is probably up to speed at this point. Remember how Pouncey said he didn't have any issues with the playbook?

If I remember correctly, we did keep nine lineman last year. Max, Chris, Justin, Trai, Willie, Doug, Ramon, Tony, and Kraig though the only backups that were active were Doug and Ramon.

Randle El isn't a typo. I just wanted it to be clear who I was planning to have as the return guy. I only counted him once against the roster (And I orginally had Logan there and had to take him off because I was one over the limit).

Good point about Battle but WR just seems too crowded. And with so many other guys who are capable of playing special teams, Battle loses an edge. Maybe Brown does wind up on the practice squad. Like I said, these are all subject to change.

Chidi29
07-25-2010, 03:02 PM
Charlie Batch signed a 2 year deal, not 1.

You're right. My mistake. He signed a one year deal last year, didn't he? Either way, it doesn't change his status.

7willBheaven
07-25-2010, 03:07 PM
Projected 53 Man Roster

QB (3) - Ben Roethlisberger (suspension list), Byron Leftwich, Dennis Dixon, Charlie Batch
RB (4) - Rashard Mendenhall, Mewelde Moore, Jonathan Dwyer, Frank Summers
FB (1) - McHugh or Johnson?
WR (5) - Hines Ward, Mike Wallace, Antwaan Randle El, Emmanuel Sanders, Antonio Brown
TE (2) - Heath Miller, Matt Spaeth
LT (2) - Max Starks, J. Scott
LG (1) - Chris Kemoeatu
C (1) - Justin Hartwig
RG (3) - Maurkice Pouncey, Trai Essex, Doug Legursky or Urbik
RT (2) - Ramon Foster, Kyle Jolly or C. Scott/Urbik
DE (5) - Aaron Smith, Brett Kiesel, Ziggy Hood, Nick Eason, Sonny Harris
NT (2) - Casey Hampton, Chris Hoke
OLB (4) - James Harrison, LaMarr Woodley, Jason Worilds, Thaddeus Gibson
ILB (5) - James Farrior, Lawrence Timmons, Larry Foote, Keyaron Fox, Stevenson Sylvester
CB (6) - Ike Taylor, Bryant McFadden, William Gay, Keenan Lewis, Joe Burnett, Crezdon Butler
FS (2) - Ryan Clark, Ryan Mundy
SS (2) - Troy Polamalu, Will Allen
K (1) - Jeff Reed
P - (1) Daniel Sepulevda
LS (1) - Matthew Stewart

LOGAN???

PS:
Doug Worthington

CUT:
Andre Frazier

I think Summers makes the team...even if he no longer is the FB...he is a good RB and I doubt they just dump him and let some other team pick him up. This ties into FB...if it isnt Summers...i personally liked McHugh better there...as he can catch as a TE too...but its a toss up thats why i put him or Johnson. The Steelers almost always keep 9 OL...and I do not see a way that J. Scott DOESNT make the team, especially with Colon gone...also C. Scott could easily make the team too...I'd put him in Jolly's place...esp since they have NOT put him on IR yet. Also i think Urbik makes the team...I dont think they've given up on him yet...based on him getting more time in OTAs, etc...what it will come down to is if C. Scott goes on IR or not...if he does then Urbik takes Jolly's spot...if C. Scott doesnt go on IR, then it will be down to Legursky and Urbik. They wont keep 6 DEs...only 5 with 1 not dressing...which means Worthington goes to the PS. Same thing with OLB's I do not think they will keep 11 LBs overall, with the to high draft picks on OLB, that means both Bailey and Frazier are gone...but only a phone call away. The only other thing...unless A. Brown or someone blows the RS position out of the water...i dont see how they dont find a place for Logan...he's been the best RS in years. If they do keep him...we either keep 1 less WR, ILB or CB. I didnt figure him into my 53 above, since its so up in the air right now (just like FB and some of the OL). As far as the LS goes...if this Stewart can do it then i say goodbye Warren...he's gotten too injured for such little playing time. Also I'm not going worry about PS or Inactives right now either.

Psycho Ward 86
07-25-2010, 03:14 PM
You're right. My mistake. He signed a one year deal last year, didn't he? Either way, it doesn't change his status.

i think it potentially could. Doesnt Dixon only have 1 year left on his deal? I think teams are going to go after him aggressively, RFA or UFA. And i wouldnt blame him if he left. He's got star potential, and nobody with star potential wants to be a backup. I think we'll have a hard time keeping him.

7willBheaven
07-25-2010, 03:19 PM
i think it potentially could. Doesnt Dixon only have 1 year left on his deal? I think teams are going to go after him aggressively, RFA or UFA. And i wouldnt blame him if he left. He's got star potential, and nobody with star potential wants to be a backup. I think we'll have a hard time keeping him.

He is suppose to be an RFA next year...and if i were them...I'd tender him a little higher than you normally would someone who is a backup. So if someone does want him and the Steelers dont want to match it they can get something out of him.

tony hipchest
07-25-2010, 03:27 PM
i think summers has more of a special team reputation, and potential as a fullback. really only redman brings to the table from what ive seen is a goal line back. with mendenhall and dwyer i think we got that base covered. ultimately i think it depends on franks back, and that it may bee to soon to give up on him (some players need more than a year to get adjusted to the pro game).

with johnson and mchugh, again i think it depends on the injury. mchugh dows have big game experience, and i think this is an instance where you dont lose your job to injury. i think he still has better upside as a HB and fb/te back up.

im least sure about the OL. i just cant see an UDFA being as up to speed as a veteran with nfl starting experience. pouncy should be up to speed. he is a #1 pick with a ton of experience and an award winning, very intelligent lineman with big game experience. still not sure if its time to give up on hills, and what legursky lacks in sheer talent, he seems to make up with effort.

wr is clogged. a. brown seems to be a sleeper, and i hate to see logan cut. but when it comes to money + experience both seem to be victims of the numbers game. wallace and sanders is enough youth on the roster, and el hines, and battle are a nice combo of leadership and experience, not only for the wr's but the ST's as well.

i think there was a bit more to what meets the eye with the OL and ST coach having one of their pupils along with them. :noidea: we'll see, sooner rather than later.

at this point im just hoping thad gibson, and sly stevenson flash and both make the team.

Chidi29
07-25-2010, 03:31 PM
Projected 53 Man Roster

QB (3) - Ben Roethlisberger (suspension list), Byron Leftwich, Dennis Dixon, Charlie Batch
RB (4) - Rashard Mendenhall, Mewelde Moore, Jonathan Dwyer, Frank Summers
FB (1) - McHugh or Johnson?
WR (5) - Hines Ward, Mike Wallace, Antwaan Randle El, Emmanuel Sanders, Antonio Brown
TE (2) - Heath Miller, Matt Spaeth
LT (2) - Max Starks, J. Scott
LG (1) - Chris Kemoeatu
C (1) - Justin Hartwig
RG (3) - Maurkice Pouncey, Trai Essex, Doug Legursky or Urbik
RT (2) - Ramon Foster, Kyle Jolly or C. Scott/Urbik
DE (5) - Aaron Smith, Brett Kiesel, Ziggy Hood, Nick Eason, Sonny Harris
NT (2) - Casey Hampton, Chris Hoke
OLB (4) - James Harrison, LaMarr Woodley, Jason Worilds, Thaddeus Gibson
ILB (5) - James Farrior, Lawrence Timmons, Larry Foote, Keyaron Fox, Stevenson Sylvester
CB (6) - Ike Taylor, Bryant McFadden, William Gay, Keenan Lewis, Joe Burnett, Crezdon Butler
FS (2) - Ryan Clark, Ryan Mundy
SS (2) - Troy Polamalu, Will Allen
K (1) - Jeff Reed
P - (1) Daniel Sepulevda
LS (1) - Matthew Stewart

LOGAN???

PS:
Doug Worthington

CUT:
Andre Frazier

I think Summers makes the team...even if he no longer is the FB...he is a good RB and I doubt they just dump him and let some other team pick him up. This ties into FB...if it isnt Summers...i personally liked McHugh better there...as he can catch as a TE too...but its a toss up thats why i put him or Johnson. The Steelers almost always keep 9 OL...and I do not see a way that J. Scott DOESNT make the team, especially with Colon gone...also C. Scott could easily make the team too...I'd put him in Jolly's place...esp since they have NOT put him on IR yet. Also i think Urbik makes the team...I dont think they've given up on him yet...based on him getting more time in OTAs, etc...what it will come down to is if C. Scott goes on IR or not...if he does then Urbik takes Jolly's spot...if C. Scott doesnt go on IR, then it will be down to Legursky and Urbik. They wont keep 6 DEs...only 5 with 1 not dressing...which means Worthington goes to the PS. Same thing with OLB's I do not think they will keep 11 LBs overall, with the to high draft picks on OLB, that means both Bailey and Frazier are gone...but only a phone call away. The only other thing...unless A. Brown or someone blows the RS position out of the water...i dont see how they dont find a place for Logan...he's been the best RS in years. If they do keep him...we either keep 1 less WR, ILB or CB. I didnt figure him into my 53 above, since its so up in the air right now (just like FB and some of the OL). As far as the LS goes...if this Stewart can do it then i say goodbye Warren...he's gotten too injured for such little playing time. Also I'm not going worry about PS or Inactives right now either.

We wouldn't be completely dumping him. I'm putting him on the practice squad. If he outshines Dwyer and Redman, put him on the roster, but I'd only keep one of those three for the reasons I told Tony.

Jolly is a tackle so we're not taking away from that spot by leaving Jonathan off. We kept two lineman inactive last season and they were project guys, not proven vets. I have the same number of active lineman as we did last year. Scott can be on speed dial if we need him.

I think Chris Scott will end up on IR. He won't be back until around late September, early October. That's too long to stash him on the roster for a rookie. I do wonder why teams don't use the PUP list more often. Seems like a pretty useful list.

Worthington could end up on the practice squad. That wouldn't be surprising. Do like both Harris and Worthington and I had an extra spot. If I had to take someone else off, it'd be Worthington.

Agreed that Bailey is gone. But I think they'd like to have at least one backup OLB with veteran experience. Frazier was called the top backup last year and it'd just seem odd to see him go from that to being cut. Especially with Gibson being inactive (on my list, at least).

I just don't like the fact that Logan is one-dimensional. There are lot of other guys who can be solid return men and it seems silly to have a roster spot for him. I want to maximize the value of the roster and I know Tomlin loves versatility as much coaches do.

Chidi29
07-25-2010, 03:35 PM
i think it potentially could. Doesnt Dixon only have 1 year left on his deal? I think teams are going to go after him aggressively, RFA or UFA. And i wouldnt blame him if he left. He's got star potential, and nobody with star potential wants to be a backup. I think we'll have a hard time keeping him.

Like 7will said, he's an RFA. Figure he'll be tendered. If we tendered Spaeth, we'll tender Dennis. I go into greater detail on the Dixon situation in my editorial.

Charlie is at the end of the line. He got no reported interest when he was a free agent and if you need to bring him back next offseason, he'll probably be out there. He just doesn't have anything left and his knowledge of the playbook is the reason why he's back. He doesn't need reps in training camp. Not as badly as other guys do.

7willBheaven
07-25-2010, 03:43 PM
We wouldn't be completely dumping him. I'm putting him on the practice squad. If he outshines Dwyer and Redman, put him on the roster, but I'd only keep one of those three for the reasons I told Tony.

Jolly is a tackle so we're not taking away from that spot by leaving Jonathan off. We kept two lineman inactive last season and they were project guys, not proven vets. I have the same number of active lineman as we did last year. Scott can be on speed dial if we need him.

I think Chris Scott will end up on IR. He won't be back until around late September, early October. That's too long to stash him on the roster for a rookie. I do wonder why teams don't use the PUP list more often. Seems like a pretty useful list.

Worthington could end up on the practice squad. That wouldn't be surprising. Do like both Harris and Worthington and I had an extra spot. If I had to take someone else off, it'd be Worthington.

Agreed that Bailey is gone. But I think they'd like to have at least one backup OLB with veteran experience. Frazier was called the top backup last year and it'd just seem odd to see him go from that to being cut. Especially with Gibson being inactive (on my list, at least).

I just don't like the fact that Logan is one-dimensional. There are lot of other guys who can be solid return men and it seems silly to have a roster spot for him. I want to maximize the value of the roster and I know Tomlin loves versatility as much coaches do.

I dont care one way or another if C. Scott goes on IR or not...but like most people i dont see any way that J. Scott doesnt make the team...on experience alone he should make it...let alone his decent ability...and with Colon gone..we need someone more stable that an UDFA w/o any pro game experience. Now if Jolly plays lights out/etc...and does way better than J. Scott...then i will stand corrected, but until then....

I understand what you say about Frazier...buuut....I think we would be fine without him. Finally as far as Logan being one dimensional?? He can return, he covers on ST, he can play RB, he can play WR...and he did all those things last year (he didnt play any offense until the last game or 2, but still, he CAN do it). If thats not versatility I dont know what is.

Chidi29
07-25-2010, 03:43 PM
i think summers has more of a special team reputation, and potential as a fullback. really only redman brings to the table from what ive seen is a goal line back. with mendenhall and dwyer i think we got that base covered. ultimately i think it depends on franks back, and that it may bee to soon to give up on him (some players need more than a year to get adjusted to the pro game).

with johnson and mchugh, again i think it depends on the injury. mchugh dows have big game experience, and i think this is an instance where you dont lose your job to injury. i think he still has better upside as a HB and fb/te back up.

im least sure about the OL. i just cant see an UDFA being as up to speed as a veteran with nfl starting experience. pouncy should be up to speed. he is a #1 pick with a ton of experience and an award winning, very intelligent lineman with big game experience. still not sure if its time to give up on hills, and what legursky lacks in sheer talent, he seems to make up with effort.

wr is clogged. a. brown seems to be a sleeper, and i hate to see logan cut. but when it comes to money + experience both seem to be victims of the numbers game. wallace and sanders is enough youth on the roster, and el hines, and battle are a nice combo of leadership and experience, not only for the wr's but the ST's as well.

i think there was a bit more to what meets the eye with the OL and ST coach having one of their pupils along with them. :noidea: we'll see, sooner rather than later.

at this point im just hoping thad gibson, and sly stevenson flash and both make the team.

From what I saw in his blocking last year, I don't know how much better it's going to get. I know he was just a rookie and making a switch, but I don't think he'll ever be a competent blocking fullback. That's not his profile. I stuck him on the practice squad to vee if he can make improvements and if he proves me wrong, hey, go ahead and give him another shot, but I have serious doubts.

All I'm saying is that no one thought that Ramon Foster was going to make the roster. Or Doug Legursky. Or that Darnell Stapleton would go from a UDFA who had knee surgery his rookie year in camp to being the starting guard in the Super Bowl win over the Cardinals. I'm just playing up to the trend I've seen. Maybe I'll end up adding Jonathan Scott and taking Worthington off (He probably could use a year to bulk up). I'll think it over.

I'd give up on Hills. To me, he looked awful last preseason (Anyone remember when Orakpo put him on his butt?) and has never gotten it together. We gave up on Bruce Davis early. I think we're learning to cut ties with guys that don't have a shot instead of waiting around and hoping that a guy magically turns out to be the guy you drafted. The same applies for Urbik. If he doesn't look good, I'd cut him (And I did in my roster).

I know Battle is the vet, but Brown has tons of special team value. Like I said, he's played everywhere on special teams.

Psycho Ward 86
07-25-2010, 03:51 PM
A tender isnt a guarantee that a player will be around. It's almost a guarantee, but who knows. Either way, tender or not, realistically speaking, Dixon is going to be so hard to hang onto. It's only a matter of time.

tony hipchest
07-25-2010, 04:36 PM
I'd give up on Hills. To me, he looked awful last preseason (Anyone remember when Orakpo put him on his butt?) and has never gotten it together. We gave up on Bruce Davis early. I think we're learning to cut ties with guys that don't have a shot instead of waiting around and hoping that a guy magically turns out to be the guy you drafted. The same applies for Urbik. If he doesn't look good, I'd cut him (And I did in my roster).

woah. i totally missed that. i will go not so far out on a limb and say that urbick definitely makes the squad. it is the steelers way to develop players, not cut them if they dont crack the starting line-up in their 1st year. i will also contend that some of these young linemen's growth has been stunted with a crappy OL coach, and a philosophy to not play the younger players (a philosophy art II demanded the coaching staff to correct).

this is the year an UDFA at OL doesnt make the squad.

Chidi29
07-25-2010, 09:52 PM
woah. i totally missed that. i will go not so far out on a limb and say that urbick definitely makes the squad. it is the steelers way to develop players, not cut them if they dont crack the starting line-up in their 1st year. i will also contend that some of these young linemen's growth has been stunted with a crappy OL coach, and a philosophy to not play the younger players (a philosophy art II demanded the coaching staff to correct).

this is the year an UDFA at OL doesnt make the squad.

It showed a lack of faith when they drafted Pouncey and Scott. Even though Pouncey's long-term plan is to become a center, the team knew that starting him at RG his rookie year would only hinder Urbik's progression. I don't think the team has high hopes for Kraig.

tony hipchest
07-25-2010, 10:34 PM
It showed a lack of faith when they drafted Pouncey and Scott. (opinion presented as fact) Even though Pouncey's long-term plan is to become a center, the team knew that starting him at RG his rookie year would only hinder Urbik's progression. I don't think the team has high hopes for Kraig. (opinion presented as opinion)


we still dont know if, when, or where pouncey will be starting. if it were a cap year it would be possible that j. hartwig were fighting for a job (although i doubt it). common sense says he easilly replaces essex, whom out of necessity, slides over to replace colon.

heres the problem i have with the above thinking-

for about 5 years, all i have heard is how the steelers have neglected the OL in the first 3 rounds of the draft, and now that we have done it 2 years in a row, it is because of a lack of faith in the guy who was drafted just a year ago? again, this thinking is not the steelers way. they tend to draft with an eye towards the future, not looking into the rearview mirror.

if it shows a lack of faith of anything, i would think its essex or colon being with the team next year.

it is my belief that starks, kemoeatu, pouncey, urbick are the future for atleast the next 3-4 years beyond this season.

either colon, hills, essex, or another draft pick will round out that final RT spot.

it all hinges on colon but his injury just complicates matters. we could keep him on the cheap or he could still command big bucks. he could be done or this could be a 1 year speed bump in his career. :noidea: essex or hills could be 1-2 year stopgaps for anyone we may draft next year (much like hartwig is this year).

the point is, it didnt show a lack of faith when we drafted hood, mendenhall, sweed, timmons, woodley, or wallace. what it did was provide competition and options.

7willBheaven
07-26-2010, 01:10 AM
we still dont know if, when, or where pouncey will be starting. if it were a cap year it would be possible that j. hartwig were fighting for a job (although i doubt it). common sense says he easilly replaces essex, whom out of necessity, slides over to replace colon.

heres the problem i have with the above thinking-

for about 5 years, all i have heard is how the steelers have neglected the OL in the first 3 rounds of the draft, and now that we have done it 2 years in a row, it is because of a lack of faith in the guy who was drafted just a year ago? again, this thinking is not the steelers way. they tend to draft with an eye towards the future, not looking into the rearview mirror.

if it shows a lack of faith of anything, i would think its essex or colon being with the team next year.

it is my belief that starks, kemoeatu, pouncey, urbick are the future for atleast the next 3-4 years beyond this season.

either colon, hills, essex, or another draft pick will round out that final RT spot.

it all hinges on colon but his injury just complicates matters. we could keep him on the cheap or he could still command big bucks. he could be done or this could be a 1 year speed bump in his career. :noidea: essex or hills could be 1-2 year stopgaps for anyone we may draft next year (much like hartwig is this year).

the point is, it didnt show a lack of faith when we drafted hood, mendenhall, sweed, timmons, woodley, or wallace. what it did was provide competition and options.

Very well said...i was thinking very close to those same lines on the stuff you said.

solardave
07-26-2010, 03:40 AM
I wouldn't go that far. Not with the money we're paying Max.

you're right. I just think Starks is way over rated.

Chidi29
07-26-2010, 06:27 AM
we still dont know if, when, or where pouncey will be starting. if it were a cap year it would be possible that j. hartwig were fighting for a job (although i doubt it). common sense says he easilly replaces essex, whom out of necessity, slides over to replace colon.

heres the problem i have with the above thinking-

for about 5 years, all i have heard is how the steelers have neglected the OL in the first 3 rounds of the draft, and now that we have done it 2 years in a row, it is because of a lack of faith in the guy who was drafted just a year ago? again, this thinking is not the steelers way. they tend to draft with an eye towards the future, not looking into the rearview mirror.

if it shows a lack of faith of anything, i would think its essex or colon being with the team next year.

it is my belief that starks, kemoeatu, pouncey, urbick are the future for atleast the next 3-4 years beyond this season.

either colon, hills, essex, or another draft pick will round out that final RT spot.

it all hinges on colon but his injury just complicates matters. we could keep him on the cheap or he could still command big bucks. he could be done or this could be a 1 year speed bump in his career. :noidea: essex or hills could be 1-2 year stopgaps for anyone we may draft next year (much like hartwig is this year).

the point is, it didnt show a lack of faith when we drafted hood, mendenhall, sweed, timmons, woodley, or wallace. what it did was provide competition and options.

It could be either way; trying to throw as much to the wall and see what sticks or it could be a legit concern that Urbik was a bad pick. Just a matter of how you see it (stating the obvious).

Coming into the draft with a healthy Colon and assuming that he'll be your guy for a long-time leaves you with one spot for Urbik. Right guard. And now you draft Pouncey (and throw Chris Scott in there too) which being that it's an uncapped year and Hartwig's job being safe - I get what you're saying about if it was a capped year but it's a moot point - and you know it's unlikely for Urbik to beat out Pouncey. Figuring Essex has one backup spot locked up, there is only one other spot for an active backup. It would seem that even if Urbik makes the team, he'll be inactive all season again. That's not showing progress. Maybe it's a bias because I was against Urbik from the start, but I can't see all this competition meaning that Urbik is looking any better.

I think Colon will come a lot cheaper now. He would have been expensive had he not gotten hurt, but this sounds like the longest timetable you can get for an Achilles Tendon tear, 9-12 months.

It didn't show a lack of faith because thove guys weren't competing with other young picks. Or they were drafted to a posiition where you could play multiple guys at a time (RBBC, use guys in 3/4 WR sets). Again stating the obvious, but you only get one starting RG.

7willBheaven
07-26-2010, 11:12 PM
It could be either way; trying to throw as much to the wall and see what sticks or it could be a legit concern that Urbik was a bad pick. Just a matter of how you see it (stating the obvious).

Coming into the draft with a healthy Colon and assuming that he'll be your guy for a long-time leaves you with one spot for Urbik. Right guard. And now you draft Pouncey (and throw Chris Scott in there too) which being that it's an uncapped year and Hartwig's job being safe - I get what you're saying about if it was a capped year but it's a moot point - and you know it's unlikely for Urbik to beat out Pouncey. Figuring Essex has one backup spot locked up, there is only one other spot for an active backup. It would seem that even if Urbik makes the team, he'll be inactive all season again. That's not showing progress. Maybe it's a bias because I was against Urbik from the start, but I can't see all this competition meaning that Urbik is looking any better.

I think Colon will come a lot cheaper now. He would have been expensive had he not gotten hurt, but this sounds like the longest timetable you can get for an Achilles Tendon tear, 9-12 months.

It didn't show a lack of faith because thove guys weren't competing with other young picks. Or they were drafted to a posiition where you could play multiple guys at a time (RBBC, use guys in 3/4 WR sets). Again stating the obvious, but you only get one starting RG.


Just a couple things...Urbik was actually active last year for a game or 2...not that it matters much, but I figured I'd just point it out.

The 2nd part i highlighted...i think thats the main case right there...that with you being biased your never gonna wanna think of Urbik in the positive light or have high hopes for him/etc. As far as the competition...competition is usually good. Pouncey will probably play at RG...BUT there IS still a chance he could just outright beat Hartwig for the C spot in his first year and that will leave a more wide open fight for the right side of the line. But for arguments sake...going along the lines of Pouncey starting at RG this year...OK...no biggie...Pouncey is going to be our C of the future not RG...as has been said many of times, they are just starting him out there but he will be moving to C...and theres a good chance that would be for the 2011 season. Then you have an opening at RG...that Urbik could easily step into then once Pouncey is at the spot he was drafted for. Even if Urbik doesnt start this year or get to play a lot i still think there a good chance he'll be the RG the next year. RT this year I think pretty much comes down to Essex and J. Scott...and if one of them show to be just as good as Colon...who says we even resign Colon...just a thought to throw out there (though Essex and J. Scott will be FA's next year, but still). Like i said i think because you are biased against Urbik you cant look at him in a good light so to speak...so no matter what anyone says you wont agree/etc.

tony hipchest
07-26-2010, 11:48 PM
im just sick of steeler draft picks constantly being labeled a bust just after a single year. whether it be timmons, sweed, mendenhall, urbick, lewis, etc...

(in many cases, those applying the label do seem to have an inherent bias)

sure players like davis, anthony smith, willie reid, gonzo jackson, get dumped after their 2nd or third year, but plenty others (usually the later round picks with no expectations, who are given time to develop end up sticking... harrison, mundy, townsend, hines. etc.

im sure the ravens werent showing a lack of faith in hiloti or k. gregg when they drafted mount cody. or the cowboys showing a lack of faith in whitten when they selected m. bennett.

sometimes teams simply select the highest rated player on their board regardless of who is in front of them.

urbick did alright as a freshman at RT. i cant wait to see if he gets a shot to replace colon in camp.

7willBheaven
07-27-2010, 01:45 AM
im just sick of steeler draft picks constantly being labeled a bust just after a single year. whether it be timmons, sweed, mendenhall, urbick, lewis, etc...

(in many cases, those applying the label do seem to have an inherent bias)

sure players like davis, anthony smith, willie reid, gonzo jackson, get dumped after their 2nd or third year, but plenty others (usually the later round picks with no expectations, who are given time to develop end up sticking... harrison, mundy, townsend, hines. etc.

im sure the ravens werent showing a lack of faith in hiloti or k. gregg when they drafted mount cody. or the cowboys showing a lack of faith in whitten when they selected m. bennett.

sometimes teams simply select the highest rated player on their board regardless of who is in front of them.

urbick did alright as a freshman at RT. i cant wait to see if he gets a shot to replace colon in camp.


Again, very well said...and it bugs the heck outta me when people do the bust crap too, haha.

wootawnee
07-27-2010, 09:04 AM
Why do you talk smack on o-lineman.......You sound like the owner of a coorperation, treating his head workers like slaves........

Max Starks is a huge reason we got 2 rings........(Fantasy football means nothing)..

Justin is an excellent leader on our line........

You give the new guy props and he has not even stepped of the bus yet.............



Plus Melwede does a great job for us, and you just cut him down the same........:crazy:

7willBheaven
07-27-2010, 12:33 PM
Why do you talk smack on o-lineman.......You sound like the owner of a coorperation, treating his head workers like slaves........

Max Starks is a huge reason we got 2 rings........(Fantasy football means nothing)..

Justin is an excellent leader on our line........

You give the new guy props and he has not even stepped of the bus yet.............



Plus Melwede does a great job for us, and you just cut him down the same........:crazy:

Who exactly are you talking to? Since you didnt reply with a quote we cant tell...I'm assuming it could be Chidi, but I'm not sure.

Chidi29
07-27-2010, 09:35 PM
Just a couple things...Urbik was actually active last year for a game or 2...not that it matters much, but I figured I'd just point it out.

The 2nd part i highlighted...i think thats the main case right there...that with you being biased your never gonna wanna think of Urbik in the positive light or have high hopes for him/etc. As far as the competition...competition is usually good. Pouncey will probably play at RG...BUT there IS still a chance he could just outright beat Hartwig for the C spot in his first year and that will leave a more wide open fight for the right side of the line. But for arguments sake...going along the lines of Pouncey starting at RG this year...OK...no biggie...Pouncey is going to be our C of the future not RG...as has been said many of times, they are just starting him out there but he will be moving to C...and theres a good chance that would be for the 2011 season. Then you have an opening at RG...that Urbik could easily step into then once Pouncey is at the spot he was drafted for. Even if Urbik doesnt start this year or get to play a lot i still think there a good chance he'll be the RG the next year. RT this year I think pretty much comes down to Essex and J. Scott...and if one of them show to be just as good as Colon...who says we even resign Colon...just a thought to throw out there (though Essex and J. Scott will be FA's next year, but still). Like i said i think because you are biased against Urbik you cant look at him in a good light so to speak...so no matter what anyone says you wont agree/etc.

If he was active, it was only after Kemoeatu's injury when we were down a guy. I don't ever recall him beating out Legursky or Foster when we had the regular five on the line.

It's not that I don't want to think Urbik as a good player. I hope he pans out. I want every Steeler to pan out. I know that isn't going to happen, but I've never rooted for any of them to fail just so I could be right.

I watched some tape on him in college. He didn't look good to me. I watched him in the preseason and he looked pretty bad. I said:

I've said it since we drafted him - Urbik is unathletic. On a couple of runs, he somehow ended up just falling down and taking himself out of the play. Doesn't pull all too well and missed a few blitz pickups. He wasn't a terrible run blocker, but not as good as advertised.

Kraig Urbik looked better, more athletic, but still had his issues. It's going to be an ugly situation at RG.

Links to those comments for proof.

http://boards.espn.go.com/boards/mb/mb?sport=nfl&id=pit&tid=5217338&lid=6
http://boards.espn.go.com/boards/mb/mb?sport=nfl&id=pit&tid=5276267&lid=2

These are of course just opinions and aren't say all, end all points.

It just seems strange that the team would hold Urbik back a year. Heck, let Pouncey compete at center and try to beat out Hartwig. And then to draft another guard who isn't a great prospect, but it adds another guy. I'm all for competition, but that often times happens when there's a lot of average players competing.

Chidi29
07-27-2010, 09:46 PM
im just sick of steeler draft picks constantly being labeled a bust just after a single year. whether it be timmons, sweed, mendenhall, urbick, lewis, etc...

(in many cases, those applying the label do seem to have an inherent bias)

sure players like davis, anthony smith, willie reid, gonzo jackson, get dumped after their 2nd or third year, but plenty others (usually the later round picks with no expectations, who are given time to develop end up sticking... harrison, mundy, townsend, hines. etc.

im sure the ravens werent showing a lack of faith in hiloti or k. gregg when they drafted mount cody. or the cowboys showing a lack of faith in whitten when they selected m. bennett.

sometimes teams simply select the highest rated player on their board regardless of who is in front of them.

urbick did alright as a freshman at RT. i cant wait to see if he gets a shot to replace colon in camp.

For whatever it's worth, I didn't label any of those other players busts right away. I even still had a lot of faith in Sweed before he tore his Achilles tendon.

Gregg knows that he's old. He's in his 30s. I think he's in his mid-30s. After knee injuries and playing a physically demanding position, drafting Cody is an eventual replacement move. And in Witten's stituation, you can use two TE sets. You can't play two right guards. This is a situation where you drafted two rookies when you had a second year guard.

I get the competition thought. And I get the BPA thought (Though we didn't go BPA all the time in this draft). But I can't wrap my head around how it bodes well for Urbik that we're drafting all this competition.