Since the Cleveland Browns returned to the league in 1999, finding etiquette talent to fill out the starting positions and backups has been the status quo. But this offseason has been a refreshing change. For once the Browns actually have plenty of talent at more positions than not. This is a luxury we have not seen in years and one of those positions that is well stocked is cornerback. So let’s take a look and see who will start and who could be the odd-man-out when the 2012 season begins.

Joe Haden

Going into his third season Joe Haden has become a lock-down corner in the NFL. In a league that has evolved into a passing league, having someone like Haden on the opponent’s best receiver is a must and he has lived up to that challenge.

Haden lacked the major stats that you tend to see in a cornerback but the mark of a true shutdown corner is one who is invisible for the whole game. Chances are if you hear about a cornerback’s defensive play, more often than not it’s because they got beat by a receiver. Haden has become an elite talent and a leader on a defense that finished 2nd in the league in passing defense allowing under 200 yards per game (184.9). Having Joe Haden on one side allows the team to focus on the other side and there are plenty of options on the roster.

Sheldon Brown

Sheldon Brown has surprised a lot of critics during his time in Cleveland. During the 2010 offseason both Brown and Chris Gocong were traded to Cleveland from Philadelphia for a 4th and 5th round selection in that year’s draft. Since then Brown has established himself as a solid number two corner and has displayed excellent veteran leadership on a young defensive unit.

Brown (33-years-old) is the odds on favorite to retain the starting slot opposite of Joe Haden, but with a crowded field of young talent he may find himself possibly becoming a nickel corner if one of the other cornerback’s have an outstanding offseason. It has been debated whether or not Brown is worth having due to the amount of cap space his contract eats up but having quality talent deep in the roster is well worth the 3.7 million he will receive this season.

Dimitri Patterson

The Browns made it clear that they think highly of Dimitri Patterson. They resigned the 28-year-old to a multiyear deal and will receive around 6 million between his signing bonus and salary this year. Last season Patterson really stepped up and showed flashes of talent that the Browns’ brass feel could replace Sheldon Brown as the number two cornerback. At worst Patterson will continue to fill his role as a nickel cornerback. Last season the Browns played in the nickel for roughly 60% of their defensive snaps and will most likely wind up doing the same this season making Patterson a valuable commodity.

Buster Skrine

From the start of minicamps last season Buster Skrine impressed the Browns coaching staff. Taken in the 5th round out of Tennessee-Chattanooga Skrine has been impressive earning playing time by the end of last season. He has come to this year’s OTA’s motivated and has not disappointed. Skrine may eventually wind up as a quality starter in the NFL but is capable of being in passing situations now. Skrine very well could find himself playing on a regular basis and is a great player to have on the roster if injuries should happen to occur.

Trevin Wade

Trevin Wade could be the dark horse in the Browns secondary. He is almost impossible to predict as his inconsistent play at Arizona dropped his draft stock allowing Cleveland to grab him in the 7th round. During his college career Wade had flashes of brilliance tempered by stretches of lax effort. If Wade can live up to his potential he could earn playing time. But as for now, he will have to earn his keep on special teams.

Other players will battle for room on the depth chart but having talented players like these at cornerback is a must in the NFL today, and a wonderful problem to have in regards to who’s going to start. I expect that this defensive unit will continue to be consistent in the passing game and as a result will make each game that the Browns play a winnable one.

What do you think?

The Cleveland Browns need help at wide receiver. The offense struggled in 2011 managing only 13.6 points per game ranking 30th in the NFL. A big part of the lack of production was the passing game finishing 24th in passing yards per game at 193.1. In fact the only category that the offense led in was dropped passes with 43 total miscues. But is there such a thing as “too high a price”? In other words is it worth acquiring a player who is notorious for distractions if it helps improve your offense? Of course I am talking about former NFL “bad-boy” Terrell Owens.

Owens has managed to do the “seemingly” impossible getting released from the Allen Wranglers of the Indoor Football League on Tuesday. Team owner Jon Frankel sited Owens failure to meet the terms of his contract as being the reason Owens and the team parted ways.

Owens had made it clear to the team that he had no interest in participating in two upcoming away games for the Wranglers which would play a role in their bid for the playoffs. Owens was not required to participate in all road games but the team did expect him to compete in key matchups. But the trigger was pulled after Owens failed to show at a scheduled appearance. The official press release read as follows:

“The proverbial straw that broke the camel's back for Mr. Owens was his no-show to a scheduled appearance at a local children's hospital with other Wrangler players and coaches. It is not the desire of the Allen Wranglers' organization to disappoint fans by having our most notable player miss a scheduled appearance."

On field performance has never been an issue for Owens. He is among some of the best receivers the game has seen. But his off-the-field antics are another story entirely. Owens has been a disruptive force in nearly every locker room he has been in literally  coast-to-coast from San Francisco to Buffalo and many places in between. Which begs the question to Browns fans across the country, would you take a chance on T.O?

Owens has demonstrated he can still put up solid numbers snagging 35 receptions and 10 TD’s in just eight games as a Wrangler. He may no longer have elite speed but can still create separation and draw double coverage. He would add an element to the Browns offense that it has not had since Braylon Edwards’ breakout season.

But during the 2011 season Cleveland got a taste of a disruptive presence in the locker room in Peyton Hillis. The contract dispute, “injuries”, and failure to appear at a scheduled charity appearance damaged Hillis’s reputation and the team’s reputation by proxy. So is Owens production worth the risk of a Hillis like repeat season?

I do not for see him landing in Cleveland but it does spark the imagination. You can bet however that he will find a place to land somewhere in the league if the price is right. You can never have enough receiving talent and T.O for better or worse is a big time receiver talent.

What do you think?

As OTA’s continue through the summer on their way to the preseason, there is once again a quarterback controversy growing in Berea. Everyone has weighed in including Tom Heckert, Mike Holmgren, and of course Pat Shurmur. The consensus from the trio is that this is a fair competition between incumbent starter Colt McCoy and 1st round draft selection Brandon Weeden. And just to be “extra” fair they have also pointed out that career backup Seneca Wallace is also in the race.

But in reality we all know that (short of him setting himself on fire), Weeden will be the Cleveland Browns starter at the outset of the 2012 season. The evidence has been clear from the start. The Browns have pursued many avenues during this offseason in regards to replacing McCoy. They attempted to trade with the Rams in order to go after Robert Griffin III, Discussed possibly trading for Sam Bradford, and finally the selection of Weeden in the 1st round. And just in case that’s not enough evidence to convince you of a lack of faith in McCoy, they also played with the idea of trading him during the draft. All of it adds up to this “open Competition” for the starting QB role being nothing more than an exercise in futility for McCoy.  So for those of you hoping to see #12 under center at the start of the season, here are four things more likely to happen the Colt McCoy being named the Cleveland Browns starting QB.



Chances of being killed by a vending machine 112 million to 1

Believe it or not there is an average of two deaths a year in the United States occurring as a result of being crushed by a vending machine. How exactly this occurs I can’t even begin to speculate, but in the future you should probably rethink snacking at the office.

Left-handed people dying because they are left handed 4.4 million to 1

How does a left-handed person die because their left handed? As it turns out approximately 2,500 southpaws die each year as a result of misuse of right-hand bias products such as power saws. And if that’s not bad enough a left-handed person lives on average 14 years less than right-handed people. I have heard that the Jets Mark Sanchez recently purchased a power saw for Tim Tebow. I’m sure Marks fingers are crossed.

Being struck by lightning 576,000 to 1

Obviously if the odds are 576,000 to one of being struck by lightning, the chances of it ever happening are remote, right? Don’t tell that to Roy Sullivan who was a former park ranger in Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. Between 1942 -1977 poor Roy was hit by lightning seven times and is recognized as the record holder in the “Guinness Book of World Records”. As an ironic side note, Roy’s middle name was Cleveland. If I’m lying may God strike me……………never mind.

Being on a flight with a drunk pilot 117 to 1

According to the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) statistics over the past decade, an average 12 pilots a year test positive for a blood alcohol level of over 0.04 percent. This average is out of a sample size of around 10,000 random tests a year. So does this mean that air turbulence is a real phenomenon, or just your pilot steering around a pink elephant?

  At the end of the day Brandon Weeden will be given the opportunity over the incumbent starting quarterback Colt McCoy. Regardless of what any of the team’s coaches or personnel says, the Browns have chosen a different direction and that direction is Brandon Weeden.

Jim Brown is one of the greatest players to ever dawn a Browns Jersey. Not only was he a great running back for Cleveland, but he was arguably one of the best NFL running backs of all time. But as the years have gone by Jim Brown has become a little less like a football legend and a little more like the grumpy old man still starving for the spot light.

Jim Brown appears to have an axe to grind. He has been relentless in his comments about the Browns 3rd overall draft pick running back Trent Richardson. He has not hidden what I would characterize as his disappointment with Mike Holmgren and the current state of the Browns organization, but now that dissatisfaction has extended to the young rookie running back.

”I think the kid is a good working back, and if you’ve got everything else around him he can play his role,” Brown said on ESPN Cleveland. “But when it comes to outstanding, I don’t see anything outstanding about him. It’s not said in a cruel manner. He’s very efficient, and that’s what you want.”

These are just the continuation of comments that Brown has made about the Browns selection of Richardson on day one of the NFL draft. These comments have upset the team’s fan-base that to this day worships him. But I feel that these comments are less about Richardson and more about Holmgren’s handling of the organization. It was clear from the beginning of Holmgren’s rein as team President that he was not comfortable with Brown in the organization.

I respect Jim Brown, not only for his contribution to the game as a player and as a legend, but I also respect Brown for the things he did in a society that during those days, did not want to change. Brown is a figure that should be respected as a Cleveland Brown, as an NFL legend, and as a man. But in regards to his recent comments and thoughts on Richardson, I feel he should listen to himself and what he said back in August of 2010 while on “The Score 1260” in Syracuse, N.Y.

“I've been very quiet about the situation in Cleveland. Sometimes when you comment on things, all you do is create problems. The last thing I want to do is create problems for anyone or disrupt the team or ownership or the plans of other people.”

That sounds like good advice Jim.

What do you think?

When the Watergate scandal broke, one of the results of the fallout was the tarnished reputation of the office of the Presidency. When the steroids scandal from Major League baseball broke into the headlines, records such as the single season homerun record lost all of its importance. Now the New Orleans Saints bounty scandal appears to be doing the same to the NFL. But one player is fighting for his reputation. As former captain of the Saints, Scott Fujita plans on appealing his three game suspension for his part in Bounty Gate.

Scott Fujita has repeatedly said that he did contribute money to big plays, but NEVER a cent to Greg Williams’ “bounties” program. He has been up front and cooperated fully with the NFLPA and the league itself. Fujita has been adamant about his position and is “willing to share everything” he knows. And if you look at the facts, Fujita may have reason to appeal his punishment.

First of all, Fujita is in a unique position. Not only does he have firsthand knowledge of the Saints “bounty” program. He also serves on the NFLPA Health and Safety council, as well as the NFLPA Executive committee which has been a major force in the changes to the game in regards to player safety.

In addition, if you examine all of the punishments handed down by Commissioner Roger Goodell, Fujita’s is the lightest punishment handed out with only a three game suspension. Why would Fujita continue to push the issue with such a light punishment? According to Fujita, it’s about his reputation as a player, and competitor as he spoke with the AP on Tuesday.

“My reputation is a lot more important to me then three game checks. My track record speaks for itself.”

Given the nature of Fujita’s roles both on the Saints and the NFLPA, there is reason to believe what he has been saying. Perhaps the rabbit-hole goes deeper than just the bounty program. Perhaps Josh Cribbs was right when he tweeted to the NFL. 

”Hey @nfl, I wouldn’t force @scottfujita99 to take the gloves off if I were you…”Sources” tell me he knows a little too much!!!”

At any rate if the NFL and the Commissioner do not reconsider Fujita’s three game suspension, we may just find out more than we want to about our favorite players and the game itself.

This isn't anything new to the average Cleveland Browns fan, but Brandon Weeden will start on September 9th against Mike Vick and the Phillidalphia Eagles. There has been plenty of speculation on whether this QB competition was "real" or not. And it's totally 100% not "real". Yes, Colt McCoy took the first initial snap of the OTAs this morning but that means absolutely nothing.

Whether you agree with it or not, they're going to make Weeden "earn" his starting role. Even though the entire front office and coaching staff knows he's starting Week One. It doesn't make that much sense to me to have an open competition with two guys when you already know who's going to win it regardless of the production in the off-season.

Weeden and McCoy have been taking snaps back and forth throughout the first OTA but don't expect that to last too much longer. We need to have Weeden take as many snaps with the first team as possible just like Andrew Luck in Indy, RGIII in Washington, and Tannehill in Miami. We didn't draft a 28 yr old in the first round if we didn't think he was the guy.

Even our own GM Tom Heckert said "We fully expect Brandon to be the guy." So there's obviously no reason in thinking about a competition anymore. Brandon Weeden is the starting QB for the Cleveland Browns. Period. And I still wouldn't be surprised if Colt McCoy was no longer a Cleveland Brown come opening day.

But this "competition" is garbage and I don't buy it even a little bit . Go Browns!

With Ben Watson, Evan Moore, Jordan Cameron, and Alex Smith already on the roster, the Cleveland Browns are well stocked at tight end. But what if there was someone else available that could make a substantial contribution? And what if that someone was Kellen Winslow Jr.?

Winslow told Ross Tucker of Sirius XM NFL Radio on Monday that the head coach of the Buccaneers Greg Schiano informed him that he would not be on the team in 2012. Winslow has been a productive player for Tampa Bay posting over 700 receiving yards the last three years. However Winslow is remembered in Cleveland as the guy who screwed up his knee doing motorcycle stunts.

Winslow spent five years in Cleveland after being drafted by the club in the first round of the 2004 NFL Draft. He subsequently only played in 2 games during his rookie year due to a knee injury, and the entire 2005 season due to a knee injury suffered while on his motorcycle.

Winslow signed with the Bucs in 2009 and has been productive for them averaging 4 touchdowns a year and playing in all 48 games in his three seasons in Tampa Bay.

Winslow still has three years left on his current contract and is expected to make 3.3 million in 2012 so he is not overly expensive. The team will look to trade him but will most likely wind up releasing him before the start of the preseason.

Winslow’s hands have never been the question. He has snagged no less than 75 receptions in his three years at Tampa Bay making him a productive target. What is in question however is his knees. He is only 28 years old but has suffered a lot of knee injuries over his career and as a result his explosiveness has suffered.

If Cleveland was to have an interest in bringing him back to the shores of Lake Erie, Would the fans welcome him with open arms? Or would he be rejected as a Brown like Braylon Edwards has been?

Hypothetically, if the Browns were to make a move for Winslow, who would be the odd-man out? Would it mean less playing time for Evan Moore, or Alex Smith? Regardless of what would happen the Browns fans are screaming for more playmakers and Winslow is a playmaker at tight end.

Only time will tell if the Browns brass has any interest, but it will be interesting wherever Winslow lands.

What do you think?

For the final part of this series we will take a look at the Cleveland Browns. Not only because this team is the one that we focus on most as fans, but because it will be the hardest team to predict in regards to their potential success in 2012. This team has made the most changes due to a poor 2011 season finishing with a 4-12 record. Out of the 22 starting slots (not including special teams) the Browns could have as many as 6 of those slots being filled by rookies which will make the teams performance hard to predict. This is especially true when at least three of those slots are skill positions such as quarterback, running back, and wide receiver. But we will take a closer look at the team and attempt to figure out what we can expect from Cleveland in the upcoming season.

Free agency was quiet for the Browns. In retrospect after seeing the direction the team went in the draft, we now understand why. The main focus of the Cleveland Browns during this period was along the defensive line. They released defensive end Jayme Mitchell and signed Frostee Rucker and Juqua Parker to help beef up the defensive line depth which is the one area in which the team struggled in terms of the defense last year. The defense did lose long time player safety Mike Adams in free agency which is an area that the Browns did not really address in free agency or the draft leading one to believe that they feel comfortable at that position, but only time will tell if the Browns are solid in depth at that position.

The big changes for the Browns came in the draft. Armed with 13 selections the Browns came away addressing some of their major problems on offense taking 9 athletes. They selected Alabama running back Trent Richardson (3rd overall), and Oklahoma State quarterback Brandon Weeden (22nd overall) in the first round attempting to make their offense more explosive. They also boasted the depth at offensive line taking both Mitchell Schwartz (California), and Ryan Miller (Colorado) which will hopefully help their 1st round selections success.

Having Richardson automatically gives the team an immediate threat on offense. Adding speedster WR Travis Benjamin (Miami) also gives the Browns a deep threat. The question really is can Weeden make the transition from a “quick read” offense to the West Coast offense? The success of the Browns will rely on that question.

However, Brandon Weeden will not have to have a Pro Bowl type season for the Browns to have success in 2012. The two keys will be the continued success of the defense building on what they did last year as a top ten unit, and the effectiveness of the running game. Looking back on last season, if the Browns had just one more touchdown a game, they would have had a much different record. With a solid running game and good defense, Weeden will only need to be a good game manager and take care of the ball minimizing his turnovers. And Weeden appears to be very good with his accuracy surrendering very few interceptions considering the amount of attempts he had at Oklahoma State, so asking him to make smart decisions in the pocket is not a stretch.

If the Browns can do those things they will make considerable improvement in 2012. I do not see this to be a playoff team yet, but could finish as well as 9-7 in this upcoming season (although 7-9 is likely more realistic). The team will likely also make strides within their division possibly going .500 in the AFC North, maybe even 4-2 with some lucky breaks.

Overall this team will start to resemble a real NFL team this year and not just the equivalent of an NFL social welfare case. Despite the wins or loses this will be an exciting team to watch on both sides of the ball. This may be the year that this team starts to be considered as legit.

What do you think?

The Cincinnati Bengals had an outstanding 2011 season, and hope to have a great 2012, but it may be tough to repeat their success from last year. The Bengals cashed in on their magical draft bringing together a great battery in A.J. Green and Andy Dalton. They took the league by storm and opened a lot of eyes. Their defense also performed better than expected finishing in the top 10 in the NFL and all signs point to this team only getting better.

The real surprise during free agency for the Bengals was that they did not pursue the resigning of running back Cedric Benson. Benson has been a force for the Bengals cracking over 1,000 yards rushing and averaging at least six touchdowns over the past three seasons. But his age (29) apparently made the Bengals brass question whether he could continue with the same level of production. Instead the Bengals signed former Patriots running back and free agent BenJarvis Green-Ellis. Green-Ellis has spent his career in a pass heavy Patriots offense and has only one 1,000 yard rushing season. The real question will be can he carry the load for the Bengals like Benson did in a more “balanced” offensive scheme.

The Bengals spent their draft primarily in two key areas. The first being the offensive line with picks such as the best offensive guard in the draft in Kevin Zeitler (Wisconsin 27th overall). Improving the offensive line performance was a key target for the franchise and it appears they have done just that.

The second area that the Bengals focused on was their defense. Their top draft selection was Dre Kirkpatrick (17th overall from Alabama) who has the skills to be a premier corner in this league. Kirkpatrick filled a need for the Bengals as their secondary suffered a lot of injuries last season and was a weak part of an otherwise stellar defense. The only real question involving Kirkpatrick is his character. He has had a “spotty” past but the Bengals are known for taking chances on players like him.

However the biggest question for the Bengals (other than the running game) will be Dalton, and Green and can they build on their success of last year? The biggest pit-fall for a QB/WR combo in this league is the “sophomore slump”. At times some 2nd year players have a harder time after the league has adjusted. Now that opposing defenses have a full scouting book on them, it will be much more difficult to repeat what they did last year. Dalton will need to rely more on some of his other targets such as Jordan Shipley and Brandon Tate. If Dalton and Green can avoid 2nd year set-backs, this can be an explosive offense that can score in a hurry.

But in my opinion Cincinnati will have a down year. Their schedule is much more difficult than last years and defenses will key on Green early and often. I feel that the Bengals will go either 9-7 or 8-8 this season going .500 in the division at best. Almost every game they won within the AFC North last season was close and could have gone either way. I feel the 2012 season will be a season of growing pains for this team. But do not count them out entirely, this is a team on the rise and will be a dominate force in years to come.

What do you Think?

In Part II of this AFC North preview we come to the team that has been dominate contenders since 2000. This team has suffered only one losing season since the new millennium and has finished 12-4 in three out of the last four seasons. I am talking about an NFL staple, the Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Steelers season came to an abrupt end in the first round of the AFC playoffs last season losing to the Tim Tebow led Broncos 29-23 in overtime. That game not only ended the season for the franchise, but it also marked the end of some of the Steelers long-time icons such as wide receiver Hines Ward, defensive end Aaron Smith, and linebacker James Farrior. The Steelers are a veteran team filled with talent, but if they are to win another Super Bowl, now is the time. The window is quickly closing on the Steelers as many of their star players are approaching the latter half of their careers, and increased salary cap room will only continue to get worse next season. But the Steelers have spent this offseason working on some long-standing problems and will hopefully overcome some of their roster weaknesses to once again be considered one of the teams to beat in the AFC.

The big news in free agency was the bullet dodged by the Steelers keeping wide receiver Mike Wallace for at least one more year. No team put in an offer to sign Wallace off the restricted free agent, first round tender that the club placed on Him at the beginning of the league calendar. Other than that, the club made no significant signings as they struggled to re-work some existing player deals to free up cap space. After this season the club will once again be faced with a contract battle with Wallace, but that is an issue to worry about after the 2012 season concludes.

The Steelers spent their draft beefing up their offensive line which is, and has been a questionable area for the team in past years. Ben Roethlisberger (or as my Steeler-fan wife calls him: Mr. Fluff N’Stuff) has had his share of punishment over the last few seasons partly due to offensive line play, and partly due to the fact he holds onto the ball longer than any other quarterback in the league.-The line needed to be improved to protect the now 30-year-old signal caller and the Steelers selected two offensive lineman back-to-back for the first time since 1968 (David DeCastro, and Mike Adams). With the addition of these two fine selections the Steelers will now boast one of the strongest offensive lines in the league. As a side note, Has anyone noticed how,,,,,,large Big Ben has gotten over the past few years (Mr. Fluff N’Stuff)? yet if you compare his combine weigh-in in 2004, and his current weight on the official Steelers, and NFL sites, he weighs exactly the same he did when at Miami of Ohio (241 pounds). Just some “food for thought”.

 The big question for the Steelers this season will be their running game. With the loss of Rashard Mendenhall to an ACL tear the team will more than likely run a “back by committee” running game. Isaac Redmond could emerge as a feature back especially with an improved line, but this is not a guarantee.

Another aspect of the success or failure of the Steelers in 2012 will be their defense. Ziggy Hood will be asked to play a larger role this season, and although the Steelers still have a solid starting defense, the age factor could begin to take its toll. Dick LaBeau’s 3-4 aggressive-blitz defense will always cause problems. But this year, more than any other, the Steelers are thin at talent beyond the starting core. Any significant injuries could lead to a tough season especially with their schedule.

I still expect the Steelers to be in contention for a playoff slot this season. There is still more than enough talent on this team to make a run. But I do not expect them to have another 12-4 season. This time, they will need to scrap. Pittsburgh will more than likely win the division at 10-6 but need to go 4-2 within the AFC North. Otherwise they may miss out on the Playoffs as some of the other AFC division teams look to be much better. The AFC North will not have three teams in the playoffs like they did this past year.

If the Steelers can stay healthy and get by with an “average” running game, they will have success in 2012. In Part III tomorrow, we will cover the young Bengals.

What do you think?

Looking around the league there is almost no division tougher than the AFC North. Every team from the division had a top ten defense and three out of the four teams made the playoffs last season. Add the hostile weather climate which plays a factor in all four locations, combined with rabid fans and the AFC North is not for the faint at heart. Now that the Draft is complete and free agency has died down we will look at this division team-by-team. We will look at their strengths and their weaknesses and analyze their chances for success in this tough division. This will be a four part series and we will start with last year’s division winner, the Baltimore Ravens.

The Ravens have seemingly been a contender year in and year out for what seems like forever. Much of their success has been the result of excellent drafting by their General Manager Ozzie Newsome.  This year was no different as the Ravens added some excellent talent including linebacker Courtney Upshaw from Alabama. Taken 35th overall in the second round, Upshaw will be a pivotal selection for the Ravens. The expectations on him have increased since the draft after learning that Baltimore will be without Terrell Suggs due to a torn ACL. Upshaw is an excellent run stopper, but lacks in agility and speed. He is exposed when in pursuit but makes up for this with above average football intelligence and good play recognition. He is an excellent fit in Baltimore and will no doubt grow into an excellent outside linebacker for them well into the future.

But the success or failure of the Baltimore Ravens has, and always will rely squarely on the shoulders of Joe Flacco. The question that is asked, and always has been asked is have they surrounded him with enough playmakers? Clearly he has an excellent back in Ray Rice, and a dynamic playmaker on the edge with Torrey Smith, but what else have they done to improve their offense? Flacco is a decent quarterback but he cannot win a game by himself like fellow QB and AFC rival Ben Roethlisberger. He has a strong arm but has difficulty “at times” in his progressions and still struggles somewhat throwing and moving to his left. If opposing defenses can stop Rice, the game will rely on Flacco and he must prove this season that he is up to the challenge. Newsome did add another speedster at wide out with Tommy Streeter from Miami in the 5th round (198th overall), but I’m not sure he will be an immediate contributor to this offense.

But at the end of the day the Ravens will continue to rely on their defense. Ray Lewis and Ed Reed are like immortal superheroes continuing to make plays and continuing to look like veterans in their prime. But the competition in the division will heat up this season. Pittsburgh has beefed up their offensive line, Cincinnati has continued to build on their success from last season, and Cleveland has added a big time rushing threat in Trent Richardson. This season will be a bigger test than any other they have faced in the past. Can they continue their dominance in the North? Or will the loss of Suggs be too much?

Much like the rest of the division, the Ravens have a tough schedule including the Patriots, Giants, and new-look Broncos. Also on their schedule is Philadelphia which will have a much better season than last year. All-in-all I expect the Ravens to go 9-7. That includes 4-2 within the division probably winning both against the Bengals, and splitting between Pittsburgh and Cleveland. If the void left by Suggs is marginal, then they could do better, but I don’t see this offense as an explosive group, thankfully with their defense, they don’t need to be. But if the Ravens suffer any more key injuries, it will be a long season.

Next we will look at the Pittsburgh Steelers and see where they have improved, and where they are likely to struggle.

What do you think?

In the cold weather of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania on December 8th 2011, Cleveland Browns quarterback Colt McCoy may have played his last snaps as a starting quarterback in the NFL and he doesn’t even remember it. McCoy suffered a helmet-to-helmet collision with Steelers linebacker James Harrison which caused McCoy to suffer a concussion. The incident not only ended McCoy’s season, but it also sparked a controversy and tightened efforts by the NFL to monitor and improve player safety during the games. Unfortunately, as McCoy has fully recovered from the traumatic hit, he has suffered a Rip Van Winkle type of circumstance as the Browns have all but replaced him with a rookie, who is 3 years his senior.

McCoy was a victim of no offseason program, a new playbook, new coaching staff, inept running game, poor offensive line performance, and poor receiver play during his 2011 sophomore campaign as the Browns starting QB. Now that the Browns have drafted a dynamic athlete in running back Trent Richardson, solidified the offensive line, and added pieces to the wide receiver corps, he finds he will more than likely not get a shot at proving himself as a durable starter in the NFL.

The Cleveland Browns front office has made it clear that they are going a different direction with the selection of quarterback Brandon Weeden (22nd overall pick) from Oklahoma State which causes a cascade of questions. Was there something that the Browns brass saw in Weeden that compelled them to draft him in the first round? Or was there something in Colt McCoy that they didn’t see that compelled the Weeden selection?

I ask these questions not only based on the current situation. I ask them because of the post draft information that came to light after April’s draft. It was made known that the Browns were targeting wide receiver Kendall Wright from Baylor with the 22nd selection. This begs another nagging question. If the Browns had gotten Wright, would McCoy still be the uncontested starter?

With the way McCoy’s season ended last year, coupled with the offseason rumors, and selection of Weeden, this has all set into motion a quarterback controversy that has been created solely to feed on itself and is only a controversy because of the way that Heckert, and Holmgren have handled the situation since that Thursday night game that ended McCoy’s season.

What kind of drama will play out as this firestorm grows in intensity through training camps and preseason? Weeden has made it clear he doesn’t want to sit, and Shurmur has made it”appear” clear that Weeden will not just be handed the job. In fact, the only one to keep quiet on the situation is the odd man out, Colt McCoy. If he has proven anything in his time in Cleveland, it’s that he is a tough, scrapper who isn’t afraid to put it all on the line. He has poured everything into his efforsts leaving nothing behind. Regardless, it will lead to an interesting offseason now that the battle lines have been drawn.

What do you think?

The Cleveland Browns have been a 4-12 or 5-11 team for which seems like an eternity. Here's why I realistically think the Browns could go 7-9 this year. I think this year's draft has made the biggest impact on our team in years. We drafted a starting RB and a starting QB (unless everyone is shocked and Colt wins the job) in the first round of the draft.

There's no question anymore about how valuable Trent Richardson is going to be to this franchise. And from what I've seen so far, Brandon Weeden looks like he can be a very strong factor on this squad next season as well. I understand we have a tough schedule for 2012-2013 but that doesn't mean that I don't think we could win 3 more games than last  year. I mean come on, I'm not sitting here saying the Browns are going 10-6 next year, but I do think 7-9 is realistic.

 For once we actually heard from a big name in the front office when Mike Holmgren said "I expect us to take a huge jump next season". Now at least for the Browns I would unfortunately say that if we went 7-9 that would be a huge jump. Just think about it.

How awesome would it be to get to see the Browns win 7 games next year. I know that would keep me more engaged towards the end of the season than in years past. I think this draft is the one we build on. I don't think we need another top 5 pick next season. There has to come a time when we get better and quit having a top 5 pick. Build with what we think are franchise changing players and try to get better. Also don't forget that we had the 10th best overall defense last year.

 Now if we could score some touchdowns, I think we should win a few more games this year. Go Browns!

Cleveland Browns fans have a great deal to be excited about regarding the up-coming NFL season. Fans and Media alike are thrilled with several of the rookies taking center stage in Berea, especially Trent Richardson and Brandon Weeden. Yes, the Browns, after suffering through another losing season, a meager 4 wins, are looking forward to an improved and exciting offense stepping onto the field. Hope, change and victory is on the horizon as team president Mike Holmgren declares that a "major leap" will unfold on Lake Erie. Well, Las Vegas doesn't agree.

It seems that the Browns and Rodney Dangerfield have one glaring problem in common, nobody respects them. Cantor Race & Sports Book from the Palms Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas has weighed in with their tally of victories the Browns will achieve this season, they did not need a calculator considering they expect the Browns to Lose it all.

Week 1.   Philadelphia Eagles (-7) at Cleveland Browns
Week 2.   Cleveland Browns (+7) at Cincinnati Bengals
Week 3.   Buffalo Bills (-1) at Cleveland Browns
Week 4.   Cleveland Browns (+10) at Baltimore Ravens
Week 5.   Cleveland Browns (+9.5) at New York Giants
Week 6.   Cincinnati Bengals (-2) at Cleveland Browns
Week 7.   Cleveland Browns (+3) at Indianapolis Colts
Week 8.   San Diego Chargers (-3.5) at Cleveland Browns
Week 9.   Baltimore Ravens (-5.5) at Cleveland Browns
Week 10.  BYE
Week 11.  Cleveland Browns (+7.5) at Dallas Cowboys
Week 12.  Pittsburgh Steelers (-6) at Cleveland Browns
Week 13.  Cleveland Browns (+4.5) at Oakland Raiders
Week 14.  Kansas City Chiefs (-1.5) at Cleveland Browns
Week 15.  Washington Redskins (-1) at Cleveland Browns
Week 16.  Cleveland Browns (+8.5) at Denver Broncos
Week 17.  Cleveland Browns at Pittsburgh Steelers ( no line due to Pitt resting starters for playoffs )

So, they say the Browns are doomed to drop them all. Evidently they have never seen the "clay pigeon" video of Brandon Weeden the Browns possible starting quarterback, nor have they seen Trent Richardson who is lovingly referred to as a "freak" by Weeden. But then--maybe they have seen the Browns schedule, considered the third hardest this season.

Predictions are little more than a guess at an outcome, an outcome that can be effected by many changes before the season even starts. So--what do you think, do the Browns lose them all? Is this "major leap" Holmgren speaks of merely a code for his flight back to Seattle?

Recently, I have come to the conclusion that as Cleveland Browns fans’, we all need lots of professional help. In working towards a degree in the field of Psychology (counseling) I have been introduced to numerous psychological conditions and processes that we as Browns fans, apparently suffer from. Everything from schizophrenia, and narcissism, to bipolar disorder we appear to suffer many symptoms, but one thing we all have in common is a process known as the five stages of grief.

Coined by Elizabeth Kubler-Ross the “Five Stages of Grief” is a theory meant to explain how we as individuals deal with death and dying. But the condition of grief is remarkably similar to being a Cleveland Browns fan. So let us go through the five stages and identify possible trends in your life in order to better understand them and hopefully knowing these stages, you can provide support to your fellow Browns fans.

Denial:

This stage normally occurs during the offseason or before a game. We completely deny the existence of records and facts and go with an emotionally charged belief that our Browns can win. We take small signs such as offseason moves or news during the week and grow that into an irrational belief that maybe, just maybe, the Browns will make it through.

Anger:

This stage almost always occurs during the game itself or during the offseason in free agency. We see that things are not going in the right direction (yet again) and then we become filled with rage. Normally, the anger sets into motion the rejection of all things Cleveland Browns and the swearing our allegiance to an unhealthy element such as the Steelers or Ravens. Thankfully this stage is short lived and we often do not follow through with our threats of “jumping ship”.

Bargaining:

At this stage we look for ANYTHING positive. We start pleading to the television and the team that if the Browns win this one, we will promise to do whatever our wives say, give up beer, or promise to watch less Sports Center. This bargaining rarely leads to positive results and in the few circumstances that it does, the bargains are short lived. However there is evidence that points to this as where superstitious ritual comes from.

Depression:

Often after the game or season is over, we will go into a depressive state in which we will do everything to avoid the pain. Some of us will hide our team apparel in the back of the closet. Still others go on eating binges. In fact, this is one reason why the average football fan develops a “beer belly”. It’s a physical result of team related depression. So if you have a gut, now you know it’s not your fault.

Acceptance:

At some point or points, we all accept that our team, win or lose, is our Browns. We deal with the result of yet another loss or losing season and accept it as a natural part of life. Like a hurricane, you know it’s coming, you just have to deal with it.

If you or someone you know is experiencing one of these stages do not be alarmed. It is a natural process that all Browns fans must go through every once in a while. But now that you are more aware of the process, you are better equipped to deal with it. Let’s all help one another through this process.

The Cleveland Browns after completing their rookie mini-camp over the weekend will now be throwing the veterans into the mix. Media outlets have quickly began their assault for ratings regarding the Browns with headlines such as "QB competition heats up this week", "Colt McCoy Vs. Brandon Weeden" and several others that would have a WWE promoter green with envy. News about Trent Richardson, the Browns #3 pick is shadowed by the up-coming saga--the latest soap opera--let the drama begin and the ratings climb. Yes, who needs Dallas and J.R. when we have--well, probably nothing. Is there really a quarterback competition in Cleveland?

Setting aside the latest headlines over the weekend which have been focused on Brandon Weedens incredible arm strength, taking snaps under center and his "command" of the huddle which he got outstanding points for, let us step into reality for one second. Performing, 7 on 7, on a bright sunny day with a red shirt on meaning that anyone who harms you will receive a one-way ticket to Siberia means very little, a "showcase" where the likes of Ryan Leaf would be impressive. On to the quarterback competition!

Seneca Wallace:

Although I cannot be considered a fan of Seneca in the past this is merely because I never was a fan of a team he played for, before the Browns. Of all three candidates Wallace is by far the most experienced in the WCO (West Coast Offense). He has been a career backup who has shown he is a mobile QB capable of being an effective backup. Labeling Wallace as "career backup" material along with some negative press he has received, which the justification of such press is questionable, will remove Wallace from the so-called competition--be it fair or not! I do not see Wallace as a "long-term" solution, however given his experience he does deserve a shot at starting QB.

Colt McCoy:

McCoy struggled last season for numerous reasons. Those throwing their support in Colts corner are quick to state problems with receivers dropping the ball, lack of protection, lack of a running game and of course questionable play-calling. Those who have closed the book on McCoy counter with lack of arm strength, poor decision making, leaving the pocket to soon and accuracy problems. Supporters want McCoy to be given a fair shake--see what he can do with the improvements (hopefully) achieved via the draft--it is doubtful this will happen (see conclusion).

Brandon Weeden:

Quarterback experts, such as sports writers and bloggers have already declared Weeden as the Browns starter. The love-fest continues with declarations about his extreme accuracy--yes I saw the clay pigeon thing--along with what has been referred to as incredible arm strength, yes a cannon of an arm. Before we all get "giddy" over this let us remember that this has yet to be displayed in actual combat (regular season). It is possible that the talents Weeden does possess will translate to the NFL, however there have been many that did not--too soon to crown him!

Conclusion:

When Weeden arrived on the scene it placed the Browns brain trust in an "enough of the excuses" situation. If in a "head to head" competition Wallace came out on top, how would Holmgren and Heckert explain a 1st and 3rd round QB pick riding the pine while a "career backup" leads the way? Lets say McCoy comes out on top, how would they justify spending a 1st round pick for Weeden to sit the bench. Any statements regarding the need for the 1st rounder to sit and learn would immediately be met with examples of Dalton, Newton, RG3, along with Wallace and McCoy nay-sayers asking exactly who he is going to learn from. In the 3rd year of his five year plan Mike Holmgren, considered by many to be a QB guru needs Weeden to start--somewhat making up for his supposedly failed pick of Colt McCoy.

One more thought, talk about a soap opera--what if Thaddeus Lewis comes out on top!!!

Well, it’s official. The Cleveland Browns first rookie minicamp has just ended. The press got to get their first up-close look at the Browns rookie class, uniforms and all. The three biggest stories from the camp was that Brandon Weeden can throw. Richardson looks good and it appears he is 100% back from the minor knee scope. And 3rd round selection John Hughes will have to play a bigger role than anticipated due to the loss of DT Phil Taylor and his torn pectoral muscle. But looking back on the events over the past few days of rookie camp, I am really forced to ask only one question. Is there anything less important than the first rookie minicamp? Here’s a list of some finalists.

The Daytime Emmys:

The daytime Emmys come fairly close in comparison to the first NFL rookie minicamps in terms of importance. Even decades before when the “soap opera” was a daytime staple there was very little, if any importance on the daytime Emmys. The average daytime TV audience is roughly 1/10 of the primetime TV audience. And roughly only 1/5 of that audience watches the Daytime Emmys. In fact, I think those midnight infomercials get more of an audience.

Miley Ray Cyrus’s Twitter Account:

For one thing I have a somewhat jaded view of twitter. Despite having an account myself to tweet when a new article is released I am constantly amazed at the number of people that tweet simple nonsense. For example, “I’m at the movies”, “I’m taking out the garbage.”, “I’m watching the Daytime Emmys”. Are we as a society so fascinated with the mega popular that we actually care what they do from minute to minute? And not to pick specifically on Miley Ray Cyrus but I have actually heard radio D.J’s report her pointless tweets as news. Thousands upon thousands of fans hang on her every tweet. I would give you an exact number, but I couldn’t bring myself to look it up.

 The United States Penny:

This one is slightly odd, but if you really examine the facts you would agree with me. The penny interacts with the least manmade objects of any other item on the planet. The only normal machine that allows you to use pennies is the machines that actually roll pennies. The penny has no buying power today. Even a gum-ball now costs at least a nickel. People will tape found pennies to pieces of notebook paper and mail them to the treasury to help pay down the debt. In fact the majority of pennies manufactured drop out of circulation all together simply taking up space in a jar or sock-drawer of the average American. If we simply rounded off pricing, we could eliminate the penny completely. Besides, aren’t you sick of seeing .99 cents at the end of a sales-tag. As if we all don’t round up anyway.

The coffee house Tip-Jar:

I don’t want to mention any specific coffee chains (cough, cough, Starbucks, cough), but I fail to understand the sense of entitlement of a coffee house tip-jar. Obviously a piano player should have one. Street performers are another. But what does a kid at the counter do that entitles him to a tip. You are already charging me twice the price of a gallon of gas for my caffeine fix, why am I supposed to tip you as well. I guess if you don’t completely screw up my order or don’t spit in my cup you deserve a thank you, but that’s about it. But do you know who should carry tip jars? I think doctors should. They probably deserve an extra five spot every now and then, especially interns. Think of how many bowels an average intern has to disimpact each week. Ugh!

So there you have it my friends. Because other than getting a few photo ops, brief coach introductions, and a copy of your own playbook, the rookie minicamps really have no real impact. What do you think are more pointless than the first rookie minicamps? We want to hear from you.

When the Cleveland Browns deviated from the game-plan during the 2012 NFL Draft to select defensive tackle John Hughes (Cincinnati) in the third round many Cleveland fans simultaneously cringed and chucked their remotes at the television in disgust. But it seems that it may have been divine intervention that compelled the Cleveland Brass to select him. Or at the very least, it was dumb luck.

This week the Browns reported that defensive tackle, and last year’s first round selection Phil Taylor suffered an injury to his pectoral muscle. On Friday both Pat Shurmur and Mike Holmgren confirmed that Phil Taylor has suffered a torn pectoral muscle and will undergo surgery next week.

Taylor was not as consistent as last year’s fellow rookie defensive lineman Jabaal Sheard, but did perform well enough to be considered a solid core member of a defense that vaulted to the top of the NFL last season. Browns fans and coaches were pleased with Taylor’s rookie year and expected great things from Taylor this season. However with the injury, his 2012 season is in doubt.

The good news is that if you are going to suffer an injury, it’s better to have one in May, rather than September. If anyone can relate it would be teammate D’Qwell Jackson who has had two pectoral tears in back-to-back seasons. Jackson was healthy all of last year and is proof that Taylor can recover and come back from this injury. The bad news however is that there is no clear timeline for Taylor’s return. He could be back as early as six weeks into the regular season, however with an injury such as this, it may be longer.

So now we come to John Hughes. At the time of the draft, there was no indication by the organization that they had any interest on adding depth to the defensive tackle position. During the free-agency period they worked on the defensive end position signing Parker, and Rucker to improve the one position on the defensive line that the Browns needed improvement in to help out Sheard on the opposite side.

At the time, the only real response given by Cleveland in regards to selecting Hughes was that there was interest in him from other teams and that the Browns wanted to add depth to the position. But now the picture has changed. With Taylor’s injury the rookie will be expected to fill a hole and contribute immediately.

Taking Hughes in the third round was a shock to many experts. The draft-book on Hughes projected him “at-best” a later round pick but more than likely would be an undrafted free agent. He has good hand-work, can play the run well, recognizes plays early, and can shed blocks. But the negative aspect on Hughes is effort. He is seen as lazy and does not finish plays well. He does not often chase down and pursue plays on the perimeter, and does “at times” appear lost when penetrating into the backfield. Effort is the key to his success. Ultimately Hughes will get out what he puts into this chance on the next level. If he is motivated and performs to his ability, he could have success in the NFL. If he slips back into the mentality he had at times in Cincinnati, then his career will likely will not raise above the role of backup or possibly end up out of the league all together.

Generally I try not to be as critical about a player. I especially don’t like to criticize a young player who has yet to prove himself. But with Taylor out for a significant portion of time this season Hughes will need to perform well. Hopefully, he can prove the critics wrong.

Everybody loves those “after Christmas sales”. It’s at that time of the year when you can get some great deals. Once I found a bin of silk ties that were 2 for $10 dollars. I bought enough to ensure my dad would be taken care of on Father’s Day and Christmas for years. Recently the Cleveland Browns dove into one of those bargain bins and pulled out 15 undrafted free agents and at least one of them may be a diamond in the rough.

The wide-net snagged Cleveland 5 defensive backs, 4 offensive lineman, 3 wide receivers, 2 linebackers, and a defensive lineman with a partridge in a pair tree. All the players were not taken in Aprils draft therefore they are free to sign with whoever is interested. One of the receivers that was signed by the Browns is 5-10, 190 pound Josh Cooper from Oklahoma State.

This could be a smart move by Cleveland. Cooper is a familiar target for new signal caller and 1st round pick Brandon Weeden having played together at Oklahoma State over the past three years. Cooper has some speed posting a low 40-yard time of 4.52 and can make the tough jump ball and catches in traffic like former team mate Justin Blackmon.

His junior campaign was impressive snagging 68 receptions for 736 yards and 5 touchdowns. He followed that up with 71 catches, 715 yards, and 3 touchdowns his senior year earning him All-Big 12 Second Team honors.

The interesting thing is that he has proven he is capable of being a workhorse at the wide receiver position. He was obviously overshadowed by Blackmon but took full advantages of his opportunities.

If Cooper performs to the same level he did in college, he could be the next great “undrafted” success story in the NFL. Only time will tell but a previous working relationship with the team’s new quarterback has got to be a leg up. Welcome to Cleveland guys.

Below is a list of all 15 undrafted free agents that the Cleveland Browns signed and announced Wednesday afternoon.

 Name                       Pos.     Ht.       Wt.      College                    Hometown

Mike Allen                  DB      6-0      180      James Madison        Powhatan, Va.

Jake Anderson           OL      6-5      305      Akron                      Erie, Pa.

Johnson Bademosi     DB      6-0      200      Stanford                 Silver Spring, Md.

Matt Cleveland           OL      6-3      295      Idaho                      Kent, Wash.

Josh Cooper               WR     5-10    190      Oklahoma State       Mustang, Okla.

Emanuel Davis           DB      5-10    195      East Carolina           Manteo, N.C.

L.J. Fort                     LB       6-0      230      Northern Iowa        Waynesville, Mo.

Garth Gerhart            OL      6-1      305      Arizona State          Norco, Calif.

Tashaun Gipson         DB      5-11     205      Wyoming                Dallas, Texas

William Green             DL      6-3       250      Florida                     Hoover, Ala.

Antwuan Reed            DB       5-10     190     Pittsburgh               Johnstown, Pa.

Bert Reed                   WR      5-10     180      Florida State            Panama City, Fla.

Jermaine Saffold        WR      6-0      200      Missouri State          Grandview, Mo.

J.B. Shugarts              OL       6-6       305      Ohio State               Klein, Texas

Andrew Sweat            LB        6-0      230      Ohio State               Washington, Pa.

All you ever hear is how great Cleveland fans are.That seems to be our 'go to' phrase to brag about; since we can never brag about a Super Bowl. Being that we have never won a Super Bowl we like to think of ourselves as 'die hard' fans. But honestly, how "die hard" are we? Each team in Cleveland has gone through its time. The '90's for the Indians, Brian Sipe to the Bernie Kosar days for the Browns and the mid to late 2000's for the Cavs. Maybe we were 'die hard' then; but can we still say with a straight face that we are 'die hard' right now?  Unfortunately I don't think so.

 The Cleveland Indians are in first place in their division and have one of the best records in baseball and have a very talented and exciting group of players. Yet even tho it's been a 'friendly weather' spring, we're in dead last in attendance in the Majors. So you're telling me that the Kansas City Royals have more fans at their games? Or dare I say the Pittsburgh Pirates!

 This seems absolutely absurd to me.  I think the term 'die hard' is getting thrown around too easily. As soon as the Browns lose their home opener it's a dead stadium until you see 3/4 of the stadium waving their wimpy yellow flags when the "squealers"(Steelers) come to town. And even having Kyrie Irving who was sensational as a rookie this past year for the Cavs there was still a dead arena for most of the year.

 So if we are 'die hard' fans shouldn't we be showing love regardless of how good we are?. Now I love everything thing about Cleveland sports. And have called myself "die hard" plenty of times and will probably continue to do so. But it's just been eating away at me how little support our teams truly get. It's hard enough that we get absolutely no love from the national media. Heck, Derek Jeter could get gum stuck on his shoe and you would hear about it before hearing anything about how the Tribe recently took 2 out of 3 from arguably the best team in baseball - the Rangers.

You'd think we could at least show some more love in C-Town. Like I've said before, why be negative? There's no point Cleveland Fans, just cheer away. Our day will come sooner or later.

Does anyone remember the good old days of football when it was more about leaving your blood and guts on the field rather than your best TD celebration? Or how a player would go out and compete with broken bones or bruised ribs? Now-a-days a player may miss a game with an ingrown nail or residual flu like symptoms from “strep throat” (yes that’s a knock on former #40). Well if you’re a fan of the time when players were men and not “millionaire-children” then you will love the Cleveland Browns new offensive lineman Ryan Miller.

The 6-foot-7, 321 pound offensive lineman out of Colorado was a 5th round (160th overall) pick by the Cleveland Browns in this recent 2012 NFL Draft. Miller started a record 48 games at Colorado and was the only one out of 28 seniors at Colorado to get an invite to the NFL combine in February. One thing that makes Miller a coveted pick is his ability to play both inside and outside along the offensive line. But his real asset is his tenacious attitude.

Miller says he will do “ANYTHING” to help the Browns in this upcoming season. "I might not be the most physically sound, but I'll give you my all and bleed, bite, crawl and scratch to get the job done," Miller said in a conference call to Cleveland media shortly after his selection on the third and final day of the draft. He prides himself on being one of those “nasty” and “vicious” linemen that defensive players don’t enjoy facing.

Miller will fit in nicely as a valuable part of an offensive line group that was 16th in the NFL last season in sacks surrendered, and was at the bottom of the league in rushing. Miller was the second offensive lineman taken by Cleveland this year. California offensive tackle Mitchell Schwartz was picked in the second round as the Browns attempt to build up the line that will block for new running back and projected workhorse Trent Richardson (picked No. 3rd overall) and will help to protect new quarterback Brandon Weeden (22nd overall).

Offensive linemen are not the flashy, easily recognizable guys in the NFL like the skill position players, but they are just as important. And with the attitude that Miller brings to his game and into the trenches as a Cleveland Brown, you immediately got to love a guy like him on your team.